Chapter 9: The Extraordinary Qi Ke and the Spirit of the Wind
The boldness of your younger brother shakes the mountains and rivers, but..." Chu Lingfeng looked at him with some hesitation, "Your cultivation method, has it not been progressing as well..."
The Shenzhou Daoist sect has always been the main force of the Huaxia sorcerers and magicians, often inflicting the greatest damage on the Tushan demon army, particularly through the Daoist sorcerers and magicians who remain expressionless at the rear of the military formation while casting spells that fill the sky.
There are successors in the Xianlu Hall! Looking at the ever-changing light and shadow in front of Bai Binglan, Zhang Kuangyun couldn't help but express his excitement.
Upon considering this, she truly began to feel a sense of curiosity towards Zhang Kuangyun
Upon hearing these words, Zhang Kuangyun immediately stood up and jogged over to the stone pavilion, warmly greeting the newcomer, "Senior Brother Chu, I have returned!"
"Bing Lan, come and meet my second senior brother," Zhang Kuangyun called out as he turned around. "My second senior brother's name is Chu Lingfeng, and he is the second disciple of our sect's master, the real person Lang Cangzi. I was just about to mention that the head of the Qingzong Hall is him."
"Senior brother, what do you mean by that?" Zhang Kuangyun responded, laughing, "Even if I had such intentions, it would be too late."
Miss Miao Miao is also a passionate and strong-willed woman, abandoned by her lover, and it is said that she has become a mere shadow of her former self.
Furthermore, did not the senior brother say that the demon was not a ferocious beast for many years? It is likely just a bird-like monster adept at sowing discord in people's hearts; the flying sword and talisman in my hand are sufficient to deal with a few minor demons
In this way, quietly increasing one's strength without attracting the attention of the true culprit should be the best choice
Just a moment ago, this Senior Brother Chu was still treating Bai Binglan as his junior sister, making half-joking remarks, but in the blink of an eye, he began to interrogate her without any mercy
Senior Brother!" Zhang Kuangyun said with a bitter smile, "Are you praising me or mocking me?"
After glancing at Bai Binglan a few times, Chu Lingfeng turned his face and exclaimed to Zhang Kuangyun: "Ah, junior brother, in order to preserve the hall title, you are actually preparing to take an alternative path, aiming for a house full of descendants?"
If it were up to Bai Binglan's heart, she would not want to leave the Xuanling Sect so soon, but with Zhang Kuangyun determined to descend the mountain, she had no choice.
On the morning of the first mountain event, Zhang Kuangyun was at the stone table by the stone platform in front of the Xianlu Hall, recounting the overview of the Xuanling Sect and some anecdotes from various sects to Bai Binglan
The intertwining of two reasons revealed in the eyes of Zhang Kuangyun, the children of a fallen official family, truly displayed a strong desire for learning; she not only sought to grasp the superficial aspects but also delved into the underlying principles, and her earnest dedication to research made him feel somewhat ashamed in comparison
This concern indicates that if you do not increase your achievements, your sect will truly cancel the title of 'Xianlu Hall'.
As Chu Lingfeng evaluated Bai Binglan in his heart, Bai Binglan was also observing him
Certainly, these most fundamental sword techniques and spells are not regarded by Bai Binglan from a practical combat perspective; however, due to her inadvertent practice of the "Fuxi Classic," it seems that her demonic veins have been sealed, preventing her from utilizing her clan's martial arts. Learning some Xuanling sword techniques and Five Elements spells is quite suitable for self-defense at this moment
By the next morning, Zhang Kuangyun specifically instructed Bai Binglan not to spread the matter of the "Fuxi Classic" everywhere
Although Bai Binglan secretly harbored feelings for him, she was still just a young girl, and her face instantly flushed with embarrassment. If it were not for the need to conceal her identity, she would have already erupted in anger
He could not help but look up to the sky and pray, sincerely expressing his gratitude for the care of the Three Purities Patriarch.
"Ha, I won't make it difficult for you." Seeing this, Chu Lingfeng smiled and turned to Bai Binglan, saying, "Miss Bai, I have learned from Elder Shi that you have arrived. May I ask where Miss Bai comes from and why you wish to enter my Xuanling Sect"
To be honest, upon first seeing Bai Binglan, Chu Lingfeng was greatly surprised
Although the teachings of Zhang Kuangyun are quite basic at present, for someone as intelligent as Princess Tianhu, the saying "to see a glimpse is to see the whole" will ultimately provide inspiration
In such a place, even if one has just returned, what difference does it make to go there again? It is precisely because I have been there that the path is familiar. Moreover, with my senior brother's kind intentions, how could I possibly harbor any grievances? Please tell me, what exactly is happening with the demon in Qiantang?
While engaged in a lively and colorful conversation, a sudden sound of light footsteps was heard
As the princess of the Demon Kingdom, Bai Binglan is willing to reside in the shadows beside Zhang Kuangyun, solely to investigate the secrets of the Daoist sect.
What pleased him the most was that Bai Binglan learned the Daoist celestial illusions, such as "The Moon Hangs in the Secret Chamber" and "Flowers Bloom in an Instant," particularly quickly
Rest assured! Zhang Kuangyun patted the sword at his waist, saying, "In fact, I must not hide it from you, Senior Brother. Recently, I have descended the mountain to slay demons and capture monsters, and I have gained considerable insight into the art of sword control. Its power is no longer comparable to what it was before."
In fact, he does not know that the Book of Fuxi was intentionally sent by Bai Binglan, so how could it be widely promoted? If he happens to encounter someone who recognizes its value, it is very likely that Bai Binglan's identity would be exposed
In response to Senior Brother Cheng's inquiry, this humble young lady, Bai Shibinglan, hails from the Wu-Yue region and originally comes from an official family. In recent years, our family's fortunes have declined, leading to a difficult life. I have recently gone to Hangzhou to seek refuge with my sister, Xiao Cui, only to find myself on the brink of falling into a brothel...
Chu Lingfeng's jest caught Zhang Kuangyun off guard, instantly turning his face bright red
Listening to her speak eloquently and without interruption, Chu Lingfeng smiled but did not let it go lightly, and subtly asked a few questions about the local customs and traditions of Bai Binglan's hometown
A night without conversation
He waved to Bai Binglan, and after she approached, he continued, "This matter is not complicated; in the Qiantang area of Hangzhou, there is a songstress named 'Yun Miaomiao'."
"Junior brother, you must not underestimate yourself." Seeing him say this, Chu Lingfeng looked at him and said sincerely, "Although you indeed haven't done very well, your potential is great, and there is still a lot of room for improvement. You must not be complacent."
Zhang Kuangyun was immediately anxious: "Senior brother! I am currently more afraid of not being able to find the demon than of the dangers of the place. You say! Even if it means climbing a mountain of blades or descending into a sea of fire, I might as well take the risk and venture forth!"
This was exactly to Bai Binglan's taste
Certainly, the most important consideration for Zhang Kuangyun is still to seek revenge and uncover the conspiracy
Haha, what is this!" Zhang Kuangyun laughed heartily, patting his chest and said, "I thought it was some kind of abyss or cave, but it turns out to be the splendid and prosperous land of Wu and Yue!"
Oh? I didn't expect that this human boy, despite having an ordinary cultivation method and being on the fringes of status, actually has quite a meticulous mind
Originally, this was a beautiful tale. However, the scion of a noble family was deceived by a demon, resulting not only in the depletion of his own spirit but also in the betrayal of the enchanting songstress. Despite Miao Miao's repeated requests for an audience, Zhu Gusheng avoided her at all costs.
After descending from Jiuyi Mountain and heading towards Qiantang in Hangzhou, Zhang Kuangyun was indeed diligent and responsible, imparting some sword techniques and teachings of the sect to Bai Binglan
The first impression that Princess Tianhu had of the visitor was "gentle as jade, elegant and extraordinary"; just a few words exchanged, and Bai Binglan realized that Chu Lingfeng not only possessed a graceful appearance but also exhibited a demeanor that was remarkably calm and refined
Chu Lingfeng hesitated to speak
Moreover, I, Zhang Kuangyun, am merely an insignificant individual; what is there that is worth disguising and probing into
Senior brother ... ... At this moment, Zhang Kuangyun could no longer maintain his composure, his face filled with embarrassment, unsure of how to respond.
How did the junior apprentice manage to attract such a beautiful woman with just a casual move
Seeing him ask in such a manner, the demon princess felt a sense of trepidation in her heart
I see this woman, beautiful yet not gaudy, charming yet not seductive, her face like pearls washed in moonlight, her skin surpassing the purest snow on a thousand mountains, possessing the fragrance of orchids, not lacking the alluring mist of willows, this jade-like, dust-free appearance is certainly not of this mundane world
She was beautiful, especially skilled in dance, and her name resonated throughout Jiangnan. Occasionally, a young man from a prominent family of Wu and Yue, surnamed Zhu and named Guosheng, would meet her and forget everything else. Thus, he became intimate with her, vowing to spend a hundred years together.
I, Chu Lingfeng, truly did not misjudge the person! The handsome senior brother applauded and said, "I knew you were ambitious, so I came to find you. Miss Bai, you should come and listen too."
Seeing Senior Brother Chu waiting for Bai Binglan to finish answering a question, he wanted to ask another when Zhang Kuangyun hurriedly pulled him aside and said with a hint of complaint: "Second Senior Brother, do you still not trust me? I have already asked these questions myself. Although the Immortal Path Hall is currently in a precarious situation, I admit that I am somewhat desperate and grasping at straws, but I will definitely not recruit any suspicious individuals."
Upon hearing that the newcomer was the head of the Qingzong Hall, one of the five main halls of the Xuanling Sect, Bai Binglan immediately perked up, gracefully stepped forward, and performed a respectful bow to Chu Lingfeng
Thus, Bai Binglan nodded slightly in the shadows: "Truly worthy of being the Third Gate of the Human Realm, such a young Daoist possesses such demeanor and presence. Even if placed in my Tushan Kingdom, he would still be a top-tier figure"
Furthermore, the Xuanling Sect possesses profound heritage; even if the scriptures are extraordinary, they are likely considered insignificant in the eyes of those in higher positions
Zhang Kuangyun, eager to descend the mountain and capture demons, did not linger much at the sect. After briefly organizing some necessary items, he set off down the mountain with Bai Binglan.
Thank you for your guidance, Senior Brother! Zhang Kuangyun is very perceptive; as soon as Chu Lingfeng mentioned it, he understood immediately, bowing slightly to express his gratitude
Alright, let her be. What were you saying just now? The path of the Immortal Road is precarious... You are indeed correct in saying that. On Chu Lingfeng's handsome face, there was already a serious expression, "As the esteemed leader of the Qingzong, my senior brother is privy to many matters; and since you and my junior brother get along particularly well, you pay special attention to the Immortal Road."
Uh, I forgot, "Chu Lingfeng slapped his forehead, "I originally wanted to compliment you, but unexpectedly ended up speaking the truth... Uh, I won't joke with you anymore."
My foolish brother originally intended to go and resolve this matter, but I have heard that the creature is not a long-standing malevolent being; it merely excels at deceiving people. Furthermore, considering that my junior brother is in urgent need of achievements, I thought to mention it to him. I wonder if there is any intention to go?
Qiao De Qi Shu, Zhang Kuangyun also contemplated whether to inform the sect leader and master
"Climbing a mountain of knives or descending into a sea of fire? That is unnecessary," Chu Lingfeng said. "I merely wish to point out that the place is currently in Wu Yue, Hangzhou, Qiantang. You have just been there and have only just returned, and now you are being asked to go there again, which is rather..."
Hahaha! Chu Lingfeng laughed heartily, "I was just joking casually, but I didn't expect that Junior Brother really thought about 'The Immortal Young Man Invites the Green Boy, Binding Hearts with a Love Tent and Connecting Heart Flowers'!"
With such a background, Bai Binglan had previously performed it with great finesse in front of Zhang Kuangyun. Even if there were any flaws at the beginning due to haste, they have all been rectified now
It is precisely for this reason that, under the persistent questioning of Chu Lingfeng, Bai Binglan continued to respond fluently
Therefore, you must put in extra effort. Chu Lingfeng said solemnly, "Not to mention that your senior brother does not look after you, I have just learned of a matter concerning a demon causing trouble, but that place is somewhat..."
However, upon hearing what Zhang Kuangyun said, the Tianhu girl, who originally held him in complete disdain, was somewhat taken aback
Having grown up in a situation where he relied on others, and experiencing a similar dependence upon arriving at Jiuyushan, Zhang Kuangyun deeply understands the importance of presenting oneself as weak and maintaining a low profile, especially when it is not absolutely necessary to do otherwise
I have met Miss Binglan". Chu Lingfeng also bowed in return.
She thought to herself that if Zhuang Kuangyun had questioned her like this in Hangzhou from the very beginning, she would surely have revealed her true self; fortunately, throughout this journey, she had carefully contemplated and calculated, having already considered all the possible inquiries and challenges she might encounter.
Seeing him like this, Bai Binglan couldn't help but chuckle to herself
I know, " Zhang Kuangyun said with a bitter expression, " I have recently traveled far to Wu and Yue, and I have also captured a dog demon. On the way back, I even exterminated a wicked eagle demon. However, the Immortal Path Hall really has too many debts, and it is difficult to make up for them all at once.
"Good!" Chu Lingfeng exclaimed, "Junior brother, with such ambition and confidence, I am greatly comforted. However, that demon lurks among the common folk of Qiantang, able to deceive the sons of noble families. I believe that the key to subduing the demon this time lies not in brute strength, but in winning the hearts of the people."
Of course! Upon hearing this, Zhang Kuangyun was filled with a sense of grandeur, thumping his chest and proclaiming, "As cultivators, we should emulate our predecessors, fan the long winds, crush the towering waves, push Mount Tai to crush an egg, and part the Eastern Sea to nourish the flames. Let us rally our chivalrous hearts and eliminate the injustices of the world!"
As the two engaged in a question-and-answer session, Zhang Kuangyun watched from the side. Although he felt that Brother Chu was being overly redundant, he nonetheless grew increasingly respectful of him.
What reassured Zhang Kuangyun was that these things, which he found somewhat tedious, were listened to with great interest by Bai Binglan, who even eagerly asked questions, clearly genuinely absorbing the information
Not yet seeing anyone arrive, a clear and rich voice came drifting along with the mountain breeze: "Junior apprentice, I heard you have returned?"
Zhang Kuangyun was unaware that his thoughts were precisely what is described as "seeing hesitation in a chivalrous spirit, revealing the true nature of a hero," which is indeed a certain underlying quality for achieving great things
At this moment, Bai Binglan also stood up, turned her face, and saw a young Taoist in a blue robe appearing on the mountain path by the Duyun Pavilion.
I am not afraid to tell you that I have already pleaded with Elder Shi Luming on your behalf several times, but... you really need to take this seriously
However, upon further reflection, the great vengeance has yet to be avenged, and the situation within the sect is fraught with intrigue and uncertainty. If word gets out, it could very likely lead to unnecessary troubles
Moreover, as a sect that places great emphasis on the proper transmission of teachings, any scriptures of dubious origin are inherently sensitive when mentioned; what may initially be offered with good intentions could ultimately lead to a situation that is difficult to clarify, and by that time, being "expelled from the sect" would likely be considered a lenient outcome
Over time, not only will the heartless young men meet their demise, but it will also lead to the tragic downfall of devoted women, resulting in a calamity caused by a malevolent spirit, with both lives hanging by a thread, truly a tragic tale of humanity, which my foolish brother cannot bear to witness
Although he understands, in Zhang Kuangyun's opinion, such questioning is entirely unnecessary
You are right. Just now, I interrogated Bai Binglan, and her responses were fluent. Not only was the information accurate, but her level of worldly experience was also just right, resembling that of a fallen gentry's child.