Chapter Seven: The Five Labors Reach the Heavens

The person in the valley smiled faintly, remaining seated and motionless, and said: "Alright, just put it over there; I will drink it myself later."

Zuo Yuanmin took the medicinal materials, feeling anxious in his heart, sensing that this matter had taken an unexpected turn, and it felt somewhat unbelievable. After a moment, he asked, "How much silver is needed for this?" Dong Qi interjected, "No need, it's just some dried grass, not worth much. Consider it a way to make a friend with Young Master Zuo." Xia Ruyi responded, "Why should we make friends with you? Buying things without paying silver, what do you take us for?" Dong Qi understood and quickly said, "My apologies, my apologies. Shopkeeper, how much silver is this in total? Let's calculate it properly with Young Master Zuo."

Unexpectedly, upon hearing his words, Xia Ruyi became angry. She took a step forward, struck the counter with the hilt of her sword, and shouted, "What did you say? You say I am playing around here? If you have the guts, say it again!" Two shop assistants, seeing this, surrounded her from behind and shouted, "Dare to shout here? Do you still want your life?" Zuo Yuanmin, noticing the commotion, quickly pulled her back and said, "Brother, don't get agitated; everything can be discussed." Xia Ruyi replied, "It is you who can discuss it; they have no room for negotiation!"

At this point, Dong Qi's attitude had changed significantly, and he hurriedly said, "Yes, yes." He turned around and called over a shop assistant, instructing, "According to the young master Xia's orders, go fetch the medicine." The shop assistant, unaware of Dong Qi's intentions, leaned in and quietly asked, "Is it true?" Dong Qi shouted, "What do you mean by true or false? If I tell you to go, then hurry up and go. Are you looking to get beaten for dragging your feet?" The shop assistant, somewhat bewildered by the scolding, looked at Dong Qi with an incredulous expression and then said, "Yes, yes, I will go right away." He ran towards the back room.

Zuo Yuanmin recalled that Xiahou Ruyi was still waiting for him outside the valley, and said: "Then it is up to you. Since there is no banquet in the world that does not end, let us part ways here." As he spoke, he clasped his fists in a bow and turned to leave. Lu Yuting stepped forward to block him and said: "Brother Zuo, where are you going?"

Zuo Yuanmin, do not say you have never seen the Tongtian grass; even with other common medicinal herbs, it is impossible to distinguish them. Seeing that the shop assistant's expression was unchanged and his tone of speech did not seem to be feigned, he could only accept it as true. Soon, the shop assistant sorted all the medicinal herbs into separate packages, tied them securely with fine hemp rope, and, feeling uneasy, glanced at Dong Qi once more before handing everything over to him in one go.

Zuo Yuanmin shook his head, the pain subsiding slightly, and said: "No need, no need..." Seeing him walk steadily, without any signs of discomfort, he asked: "Is your foot... better?"

As he stepped through the threshold, a wave of fragrant herbal aroma wafted towards him. Several shop assistants were busily rummaging through the medicine drawers, some were weighing out herbs on the scales, while others were grinding medicine with mortars and pestles, all engrossed in their tasks. One of the assistants, hearing the footsteps, peeked out from behind the medicine cabinet and asked, "Are you here to collect herbs? Where is the prescription?"

Although he comforted himself in this way, when he thought back to the skills he had painstakingly honed over the years, he felt both frustrated and regretful that they had been so easily taken by others. Unable to vent his anger on anyone else, and certainly not willing to strike himself, he wallowed in self-pity when suddenly he thought: "Since those two have inexplicably acquired my skills, why not simply take them both as disciples and impart all my martial arts to them?"

Zuo Yuanmin spoke little and headed straight out of the city. Xia Ruyi followed closely behind, also saying nothing. The two of them walked for a long time after exiting the city gate, before Xia Ruyi finally called out from behind Zuo Yuanmin: "Brother Zuo! Where are you planning to go now?" Zuo Yuanmin stopped and turned back, saying: "Brother Xia, I was just waiting for you to speak to me!" Xia Ruyi was taken aback and asked: "Why?"

The person in the valley was in high spirits, eager to try out his skills. Upon seeing the two individuals from the left approach, he could hardly wait to demonstrate his abilities on them. However, since their martial arts skills were lacking, they could not spar with him. Instead, he found that Lu Yuting's foot injury provided an opportunity for him to showcase his talents. Thus, he eagerly urged Lu Yuting to sit on the stone, ready to channel his energy to help treat the foot injury.

The man in the valley laughed heartily and said: "Let’s do it this way, don’t say that I, as an adult, am bullying a child. From now on, whether it is day or night, at any time, as long as you can step into this cave, I will consider myself defeated. At that time, you will be free to come and go in the valley, and no one will be able to control you"

Zuo Yuanmin thought to himself: "You are well aware that this item is quite taboo and difficult to procure, yet you did not inform me before we set out. What is your intention?" He continued: "Since the medicinal materials have already been purchased, we should not delay. May I ask how to prepare them, esteemed senior?"

Performing energy manipulation for others and unblocking their meridians is merely a trivial skill for the person in the valley at this moment. Moreover, the opponent is a young man with limited martial arts abilities. Such a small display of skill carries a sense of regret for unfulfilled aspirations.

Upon seeing the silver, the shop assistant said, "Then you wait a moment." After leaving the counter, he turned and went to the back room. Shortly after, when he emerged from the back room, he had a bundle of strange, straw-like items with peculiar insects on his hands. He slowly walked back behind the counter, gently placed the items on the counter, and, in accordance with Luo Yuanmin's instructions, divided them into seven sets, saying, "Here they are, what else is there?"

Zuo Yuanmin appeared to be deep in thought, remaining silent. Xiahou Ruyi said, "Elder brother, is it enough now? I have confessed so much to you; can you forgive me? How about this, I will share another secret with you..." As she spoke, she leaned forward and, in a mysterious tone, said, "Actually, I am disguised as a man; I am a woman."

However, the people in the valley were completely unaware that his daring advance, breaking through the ninth level, was merely an illusion brought about by the effects of the medicine. Even the eighth level was only barely passed. At first, he was full of vigor and pride, feeling quite pleased with himself, but as he began to use his energy to heal others, the true energy he had just cultivated started to become uncontrollable, running wildly through his meridians. The more he tried to focus his mind, the more chaotic his thoughts became. Before long, he was suddenly confronted with a dazzling array of colors, manifesting various illusions.

Originally, Zuo Yuanmin thought to himself, since it was impossible to sneak into the cave from the eyes of the people in the valley, it would be better to turn around and take action against the people in the valley. After all, the people in the valley could not harm him, and there was no need to fear that they would become enraged and strike him down. Thus, he began to launch a full-scale attack on the people in the valley

He beckoned Lu Yuting to sit upright on the rock where he originally practiced meditation and martial arts, while he himself circled around to his back and said: "I am now going to channel internal energy into the Tianzhu and Fen points on your back. The Tianzhu and Fen points belong to the Foot Taiyang Bladder Meridian. Are you familiar with this meridian?"

Xiahou Ruyi had some reservations about this. Zuo Yuanmin said, "You just said you would follow my arrangements, how could you forget so quickly?" Xiahou Ruyi thought to himself, "In any case, you won't be around when the time comes, so whatever I choose to do is none of your business. Whether or not to go in and look for you is also my decision. For now, I might as well comply with your wishes; what harm could it do?" Thus, he agreed.

The sturdy man said, "Little brother, where did you hear the name of the Five Labors Universal Herb? What do you want to buy this for?" Zuo Yuanmin replied, "It doesn't matter where I heard it from. Since I want to buy it, there must be a purpose. The important thing is whether Tongji Hall actually has it and whether they are selling it or not"

At this moment, a gentle breeze blew, and Zuo Yuanmin unexpectedly caught a whiff of a faint fragrance that awakened deep memories within him. Looking around, there was no one else present, so it was naturally the scent emanating from the person before him, Xia Ruyi.

***

The shopkeeper said: "However, no one has ever used this Five Labor Heaven Grass for medicine, because even a tiny bit of it can kill a cow. We are conducting legitimate business here, so how could we sell such a thing? If you are sure you haven't made a mistake, would you like to ask elsewhere?"

Indeed, the person from the valley turned back after noon. Upon meeting him, Zuo Yuanmin immediately said, "Hey, Senior Gu, you were unwell at that time. In the spirit of mutual assistance, I have completed all the tasks you entrusted to me. Why is it that now you won't let me leave? I see you are lively and well, so don't think about asking me to do anything else for you!"

Zuo Yuanmin felt dizzy and unable to speak. Lu Yuting interjected, "Senior's divine skill has truly opened my eyes!" The person from the valley seemed quite pleased, laughing heartily a few times, and suddenly appeared in front of Zuo and Lu, his face beaming with joy. Seizing the opportunity of his good mood, Lu Yuting quickly said, "Congratulations, Senior, on the completion of your divine skill. Tomorrow, as you re-enter the martial world, you will surely make a resounding impact!"

Zuo Yuanmin was taken aback, still unsure of how to proceed, when the person in the valley impatiently said: "Kid, this move of yours won't work, do you have any others?"

Then Xiahou Ruyi suddenly laughed and said, "This Dong Qi is a fool. I noticed he recognized me, and I kept signaling him not to reveal my identity, but unexpectedly, he didn't directly expose me yet kept giving himself away." After laughing for a while, he suddenly felt it was inappropriate, reining in his smile, and said, "I apologize, I didn't mean to keep this from you. In fact, I ran away from home, wanting to venture into the martial world. I went through a lot of effort to disguise myself, and if someone recognizes me, my father might send someone to bring me back."

In the midst of adversity, the man found fortune. Seven days ago, he was at the lowest point of his life, completely paralyzed, uncertain if he would see the sun rise again the next day. However, seven days later, his martial arts skills had reached the pinnacle of his life. With his newfound abilities, he could not help but reminisce about returning to the martial world tomorrow, reclaiming everything he had lost in the past, and even more. Unable to contain his excitement, he burst into laughter, which led him to invite the two, Zuo and Lu, into the cave.

Zuo Yuanmin took his leave. Lu Yuting stood at the cave entrance and asked, "Senior, after taking this last dose of medicine today, should he be able to recover?" Zuo Yuanmin replied, "His condition is good; not only should he recover, but perhaps his martial arts skills can also return to a level similar to before." Glancing at Lu Yuting's left foot, he continued, "What about your foot? How is it?"

The person in the valley was pleasantly surprised and, believing that his energy was still abundant, decided to attempt to break through to the eighth level. Although he had never practiced the internal skill methods of the eighth level, he had already memorized the incantations thoroughly. Thus, he proceeded cautiously, step by step, in accordance with the prescribed methods.

The man in the valley let out an "Oh" and finally opened his eyes, looking at Zuo Yuanmin and asking, "Did you manage to get the Five Labors Connecting Heaven Herb?" Zuo Yuanmin unfastened the bundle on his back, took out the Five Labors Connecting Heaven Herb, and placed it before the man in the valley, saying, "Is this the item?" Upon seeing it, the man's eyes immediately emitted a peculiar light, but this expression lasted only a moment. He then spoke in his usual manner, saying, "Yes, yes, I didn't expect you to... Hehe..."

Zuo Yuanmin considered for a moment and then said, "Alright." He threw a punch that struck the trunk, and with a loud "bang," the branches and leaves shook slightly. However, Zuo Yuanmin was shaking his fist and shouting loudly.

Xia Ruyi hurriedly caught up and said apologetically, "Brother Zuo, are you angry?" Zuo Yuanmin replied, "No, I'm not." Xia Ruyi responded, "It's all written on your face! You don't even pretend when you're acting." Zuo Yuanmin retorted sourly, "Is it like your expression?" Xia Ruyi widened her eyes and said, "See, you still say you're not angry!"

After exchanging a few pleasantries, Xia Ruyi asked, "Where are you coming from, Brother Zuo? Where do you plan to go next?" Zuo Yuanmin pointed in the direction behind him and said, "I came from the town up ahead and am heading to Weicheng." Xia Ruyi replied, "Weicheng? There isn't much to see in Weicheng. Are you going there to find someone?" Zuo Yuanmin said, "I have been entrusted with a task and am specifically required to go to the city to buy some items."

Xia Ruyi hesitated for a moment, initially appearing somewhat troubled. However, for some reason, she later made up her mind, lightly tapped the table, and said: "Alright, I originally came out of the city to go to another place. But since I owe Brother Zuo a favor, I might as well repay it this way; it’s quite a bargain. I will take you into the city!" Zuo Yuanmin quickly replied: "How can I accept this? Brother Xia is going to another place, so please go ahead. Just tell me how to get around after entering the city." Xia Ruyi smiled and said: "No rush, no rush. However, since I owe Brother Zuo a favor, I might as well repay it this way; it’s quite a bargain. I will take you into the city!" Zuo Yuanmin quickly replied: "How can I accept this? Brother Xia is going to another place, so please go ahead. Just tell me how to get around after entering the city." Xia Ruyi smiled and said: "No rush, no rush. The people from Tongji Hall have a rather high opinion of themselves, and I fear they might bully you with their power and offend Brother Zuo." She insisted on escorting Zuo Yuanmin into the city. In the end, Zuo Yuanmin could not decline any further and had no choice but to agree.

Having made up her mind and settled on the plan, she said: "That's fine, but you’d better dress as a man; it will be more convenient that way." Upon hearing Zuo Yuanmin agree to let her accompany him, Xiahou Ruyi had no objections left. She quickly nodded her head vigorously, readily agreeing, and said: "Of course, no problem, no problem"

The man in the valley laughed and said, "Who said you were to do me a favor?" After glancing at Lu Yuting, he continued, "In order to express my gratitude for the assistance you two young friends have provided, I would like to offer you a few items as a token of appreciation. However, I believe you are not particularly interested in gold and silver treasures. To be honest, over the past few decades, I have not retained much else, only my skills. While they may not be earth-shattering, I believe that if I can teach you a move or two, you will find them beneficial for the rest of your lives."

A shop assistant noticed that Xia Ruyi was a head shorter than him and reached out to grab the back of his collar. However, Zuo Yuanmin, knowing that he was actually a woman, instinctively reached out to stop him, exclaiming, "Don't lay a hand on her!" The shop assistant, being much taller than Zuo Yuanmin, laughed heartily and easily pushed Zuo Yuanmin to the ground

The person in the valley, filled with internal energy, thus gained an outlet for his emotions, making it impossible for him to let go. After a considerable time, he began to feel that the internal energy within him was no longer causing disturbances. Along with the sense of comfort and ease, he experienced a profound feeling of peace and tranquility, tempting him to think of nothing and simply continue as he was. However, given his originally high martial arts skills, once his life was no longer in danger, his mind quickly regained clarity. Suddenly, he remembered that by continuously expelling his internal energy, he was effectively wasting years of hard training. He shouted loudly and immediately released his grip, only to hear two thuds as the two individuals, Zuo and Lu, fell to the ground, unconscious. Yet, he originally possessed high martial arts skills, and once his life was secure, his mind quickly regained clarity. He suddenly recalled that by continuously expelling his internal energy, he was effectively wasting years of hard training. He shouted loudly and immediately released his grip, only to hear two thuds as the two individuals, Zuo and Lu, fell to the ground, unconscious.

The person in the valley felt a surge of anger upon hearing this, thinking to himself: "Who am I? To teach martial arts, yet there are still people who do not wish to learn?" Suppressing his anger, he said: "If it comes to this, the one at a loss will be you!" This statement was not a lie.

On that day, Zuo Yuanmin slowly awakened. As soon as he opened his eyes, he felt the sunlight was dazzling and quickly closed his eyelids again. After a while, he suddenly recalled the events that had occurred before he lost consciousness and couldn't help but exclaim, "Not good!" He sat up abruptly. It was then that he realized he was lying on a kang, situated in a thatched cottage. Looking around at the furnishings, he recognized that it was the dwelling of the people in this valley.

Seeing that the person in the valley could effortlessly throw someone ten steps away, even if the opponent was an ordinary person with no martial arts skills, Lu Yuting was both astonished and delighted. Such skill was indeed rare in the world. However, he did not forget to step forward and say: "Senior, please do not harm Brother Zuo"

Zuo Yuanmin originally saw the person in the valley, and unexpectedly, with just a distant wave, he sent him tumbling. In a moment of despair, he heard the person in the valley say that he would never harm him. He thought to himself: "Since that is the case, what is there to be concerned about!" He walked up to the person in the valley and said: "You said you would never harm me, is that true?"

Zuo Yuanmin said, "No, I want to get the medicine directly." The young man glanced at him and replied, "The pharmacy is next door." As he spoke, he pointed to the side. Following the gesture, Zuo Yuanmin looked over and indeed saw the pharmacy right next door, joyfully exclaiming, "Thank you!" He then proceeded directly into the shop.

Zuo Yuanmin was greatly alarmed, but he wanted to flee. However, leaving Lu Yuting behind was not in his character. After a moment's hesitation, he had already rushed in front of the person in the valley. Without a second thought, he used both hands to pry away the fingers of the person in the valley that were gripping Lu Yuting's right ankle, shouting, "Senior, let go!"

On that day, he was unable to muster his strength and barely managed to break through the barrier, resulting in a misfire. However, today the subjective and objective environmental conditions have changed; he even feels that his condition is quite good, almost the best day since he began his training. There should be no repeat of the disaster from that day. Indeed, heaven does not disappoint those who work hard; he charged through the seventh level with ease, it could almost be described as effortless.

Zuo Yuanmin was unaware of what scheme was afoot at that moment, but since he was already there, he decided to make himself comfortable and took the lead. Indeed, he soon saw a few people not far ahead, who had pulled out several benches and were lining up at the door. Zuo Yuanmin glanced up and noticed a large plaque hanging above the entrance, with the golden characters elegantly inscribed: "Tongji Kuangshi".

The person in the valley laughed heartily, walked over to Zuo Yuanmin, and said: "How is it, kid? I calculated the distance perfectly before I threw you down. What do you think of my skills?" After waiting for a while, seeing that Zuo Yuanmin remained motionless on the ground, he nudged him with his foot and continued: "Hey, pretending to be mysterious won't fool me."

Zuo Yuanmin fell silent and continued to move forward. Xia Ruyi reached out to stop him and said, "Alright, alright, I will accompany you in this matter!" As she spoke, she performed a deep bow and continued, "I am sorry, it was my mistake; I should not have deceived a friend. All the blame lies with me. You are magnanimous and should not hold past grievances against me!" Her tone somewhat resembled that of a daughter regaining her composure.

The person in the valley had experienced this once before and knew that it was clearly a sign of being possessed by a demonic force. In an instant, he broke out in a cold sweat. As for how such a situation could arise at this moment, he had no time to think it through and could not think it through. In order to protect himself, he hurriedly tried to loosen his hands that were pressed against Lu Yuting's back. However, as soon as he moved his hands, he felt as if his chest had been struck heavily by an iron awl, and his heart nearly stopped beating.

The man in the valley was taken aback, unable to suppress a gasp. In an instant, the internal energy he had just cultivated transformed into a torrent, surging wave after wave into his energy center. He attempted to focus and control it, but found himself powerless. He soon realized that this abundant vital energy was filling his energy center to the brim, overflowing and beginning to surge from the Ren meridian to the Du meridian. Following that, the Eight Extraordinary Meridians and the Twelve Regular Meridians were also filled in an instant, leaving no place for release, and his limbs and bones felt as if they were about to burst.

Zuo Yuanmin wore a silly smile, speaking ambiguously to avoid the possibility of the other person suddenly insisting on having the prescription secretly recorded for him. However, such an event did not occur. As noon approached, the two began to busily prepare their lunch. Suddenly, a howling sound echoed from the cave, shaking the ground and creating an astonishing spectacle. The two hurriedly set aside their tasks and rushed to the cave entrance. However, such an event did not occur. As noon approached, the two began to busily prepare their lunch. Suddenly, a howling sound echoed from the cave, shaking the ground and creating an astonishing spectacle. The two hurriedly set aside their tasks and rushed to the cave entrance

In the valley, the person said: "Rest assured, I am merely passing on a few techniques to you as a token of gratitude; I do not truly intend to take you as disciples. Moreover, I have already imparted several years of internal skills to you. At this moment, I will only teach you some methods of application. Once you practice them until you are thoroughly proficient, and can respond to attacks instinctively, it will be no different from the results of ten years of hard training. I am willing to expend my internal energy to devise this shortcut for you. If you do not appreciate it, would that not be akin to 'I entrusted my heart to the bright moon, yet the bright moon shines upon the gutter,' thus wasting my good intentions?"

Gu Zhongren said: "This is the last dose of medicine." Zuo Yuanmin replied: "Yes, this is the last dose of medicine." Their gaze did not dare to directly meet his.

Zuo Yuanmin said: "But as a girl, it is quite inconvenient for you to wander the world, I think..." Xiahou Ruyi hurriedly replied: "Before I disguised myself to go out, I had already made up my mind. Brother, please do not persuade me to go back. If you want to drive me away, then I will have no choice but to go to another place alone."

The person in the valley was only concerned about how much of their internal energy had been consumed, completely indifferent to the lives and deaths of others. They quickly sat back down and began practicing their mental techniques. However, at that moment, no matter how they adjusted their breathing and guided their energy back to its source, their entire dantian felt as if it were empty, showing no response whatsoever.

Thus, the two of them set off together, heading north. Luo Yuanmin did not forget to return to the previous inn to retrieve his stored medicine. Additionally, he gave some silver to the innkeeper, instructing him to purchase clothing that would fit Xiahou Ruyi's figure, in order to replace her originally somewhat extravagant attire. Once everything was arranged, the two of them left the small town, determined their direction, and headed towards the valley where the people were located.

Zuo Yuanmin certainly understood that this was the other party's intimidation tactic, but the phrase "don't let yourself be used" struck a chord with him. Especially since that person from the valley was always so mysterious, making it difficult to distinguish between good and evil, and even until the end, he refused to reveal his true name, which made it hard not to be wary of whether he had ulterior motives. If it weren't for his prior commitment to help with this task and the fact that he still needed to rely on Lu Yuting due to her foot injury, Zuo Yuanmin would have truly wanted to walk away from it all.

Zuo Yuanmin sensed the unfriendly tone in his voice and thought, "I never asked you to teach me martial arts, nor are you my master, so why should it concern you?" After all, the two of them were originally strangers, and there was no need to get involved because of martial arts. He replied, "Well, today you have opened your eyes; I, Zuo Yuanmin, simply do not wish to learn." His temperament had always been stubborn; he was the type who would become weaker in the face of weakness and stronger in the face of strength. The strength and weakness referred to here are not about martial prowess, but rather about the softness and stubbornness of one's temperament. There was no need to get involved because of martial arts, and he reiterated, "Well, today you have opened your eyes; I, Zuo Yuanmin, simply do not wish to learn." His temperament had always been stubborn; he was the type who would become weaker in the face of weakness and stronger in the face of strength. The strength and weakness referred to here are not about martial prowess, but rather about the softness and stubbornness of one's temperament.

He forcibly injected the internal energy, which fundamentally differed from using internal strength to assist Lu Yuting in opening the meridians. The former was solely responsible for a reckless injection, while the latter also required controlling the flow direction of the internal energy being introduced into Lu Yuting's body. At this moment, the people in the valley were too preoccupied with their own situations to have any energy left to guide others' energy back to its source. Lu Yuting only felt a powerful internal force surge into his body, sealing all the acupoints it reached. He let out a loud shout, suddenly jumping up with an unknown surge of strength.

Xiahou Ruyi spoke earnestly: "Elder Brother Zuo, you are warm-hearted and upright, possessing a strong sense of justice. Although you are not much older than I am, your actions are methodical and resolute, without any ambiguity. Compared to my second brother, you are even slightly superior. In friendship, sincerity is of utmost importance; therefore, as I sincerely wish to be your friend, I naturally cannot keep anything from you. You asked me why I want to help you, and the answer is simple: I just want to be your friend! In friendship, sincerity is of utmost importance; therefore, as I sincerely wish to be your friend, I naturally cannot keep anything from you. You asked me why I want to help you, and the answer is simple: I just want to be your friend! Surely, Elder Brother, you do not look down upon women like my father does?"

Zuo Yuanmin could not find it elsewhere, so he realized that the item he sought was quite unusual; otherwise, there would be no need for him to come here specifically. He hurriedly took out a silver ingot weighing five taels from his bosom and placed it on the counter, saying: "I have it, I have it, I have it! I have silver."

Zuo Yuanmin fixed his gaze on him and said, "I am very grateful for your help in purchasing the medicinal materials, but I feel as if I have played a trick on you." Xia Ruyi's face flushed slightly as she replied, "You know, huh?" Zuo Yuanmin continued, "You are quite the actress, but that person named Dong Qi is just too lacking in comparison." After a pause, he added, "Nevertheless, it is through your assistance that I was able to successfully complete this matter. At present, I am in a hurry to return, and I will come to express my gratitude another day." As he spoke, he clasped his fists in salute and turned to leave. He reiterated, "Nevertheless, it is through your assistance that I was able to successfully complete this matter. At present, I am in a hurry to return, and I will come to express my gratitude another day." As he spoke, he clasped his fists in salute and turned to leave.

Xiahou Ruyi said: "If I do not see my elder brother come out after nine days, then I will go in to look for you." Zuo Yuanmin quickly intervened, saying: "If that is the case, then you cannot enter the valley. At that time, whether you choose to return home or continue to wander in the martial world is entirely up to you. In any case, you must not enter the valley to find me"

Lu Yuting smiled and said, "It is acceptable to make do, but I still worry, as the senior mentioned, that in the future, the skills related to footwork will be diminished, and their effectiveness will not be fully realized." Zuo Yuanmin replied, "You need not worry about this; look at him, his two feet seemed almost disabled before, unable to move at all. Yet yesterday, he was already able to stand up." Lu Yuting said, "Indeed, had I not seen it with my own eyes, I would hardly believe it. It is just a pity that my memory is not as good as yours, and I cannot remember this mysterious prescription."

Zuo Yuanmin thought to himself that it would be good to get this matter settled as soon as possible, and he did not pay much attention to the small maneuvers of Tongjitang. As he saw that the required medicinal materials were about to be gathered, a heavy weight gradually lifted from his heart. Finally, he said: "The last medicine I need is Wulao Tongtian grass"

Zuo Yuanmin then realized that the item he wanted was not available for sale on the counter. Although he had no knowledge of what he was about to purchase, he now understood that it must indeed be the item before him. Thus, he proceeded to mention the next medicinal ingredient.

Zuo Yuanmin pondered for a moment and said, "Is it really unnecessary to take a master?" The person in the valley thought to himself, "How many people wish to take me as their master but cannot find the way in? You have encountered a fortuitous opportunity, yet you worry that I will force you to take me as your master?" He smiled wryly and said, "It is truly unnecessary."

The shopkeeper smiled broadly and said, "The medicinal herbs that are not available at Tongji Hall truly cannot be found anywhere else in the world." Zuo Yuanmin replied, "Is that so? Then if the shopkeeper wants me to buy from elsewhere, isn't that a joke? Shopkeeper, no matter how much silver this Wulao Tongtian grass costs, I have it all. Please sell me some; I only need seven qian."

To understand why the person in the valley is so anxious, there are two main reasons. First, having just recovered from a serious injury, he easily passed the seventh level of difficulty, which gave him considerable confidence. Second, after being trapped for many days, he could no longer contain his pent-up emotions. Now that he has finally been liberated, he feels like a wild horse that has broken free, filled with ambition for everything. Although the manual states that to practice the eighth level of mental technique, one must first spend seven years mastering the seventh level, the essence of internal cultivation is that all methods ultimately converge into a natural progression. The person in the valley feels that having just completed the seventh level, his entire body is filled with vital energy, making him feel as if he has instantly become ten years younger. He has also regained the adventurous spirit of his youth, disregarding life and death. With this renewed vigor, he attempts to break through another barrier, and surprisingly, after spending just a couple of hours, he manages to succeed.

Zuo Yuanmin said: "It is not that I want to teach you how to do things or how to act. I see that you come from a distinguished background, and you must certainly be well-educated and courteous. It is rare to possess such remarkable skills, truly deserving of the title of being both cultured and martial. Moreover, you are quite the handsome figure. People like you open a small tea stall in the outskirts merely to make a living. Businesspeople are meticulous about every penny, and perhaps they have calculated some things. If you were to engage with him on the same level, would that not be a degradation of your own status and a disgrace to your abilities?"

Zuo Yuanmin, in order to showcase his martial arts after recovering from his injuries, unexpectedly turned against the very people who had helped him. He captured his own hand and, using some unknown technique, tormented himself to the point of near death, resulting in a two-day and two-night coma. Reflecting on that period of torment, he still feels a lingering fear. In his fright, his stubborn temper flared up, and he resolutely refused to do anything further for the people of the valley.

The shop assistant was taken aback and turned to look at the shopkeeper. The shopkeeper interjected, "Young brother, this Five Labors Herb is indeed highly toxic. Are you sure you haven't made a mistake?" Zuo Yuanmin replied, "I am certain. I remember it very clearly; otherwise, how could I have come out to buy medicine? Is there any other herb whose name sounds similar to this Five Labors Herb?"

The two individuals observed the shadowy figure swaying left and right, appearing before them one moment and vanishing behind them the next, leaving their eyes dazzled and their minds troubled. Left Yuanmin turned his head away, unwilling to look any longer, when he suddenly heard the laughter of the person in the valley rise again, saying: "How about that? My 'Phantom Fractal' technique is quite impressive, isn't it? Ha, ha, ha!" At that moment, the two realized that the person in the valley was merely putting on a show, intending to demonstrate his current martial arts prowess.

Zuo Yuanmin said: "If the Xia brothers are so mischievous, wouldn't it cause trouble if the tea doctor's degree were to suddenly revert?" Xia Ruyi replied with a smile: "Brother Zuo spent a couple of taels of silver, and the shopkeeper treated us to a couple of plates of melon seeds and peanuts; this is quite natural. Otherwise, people would say he doesn't know how to do business! However, if you don't like it, I can just keep a couple of copper coins later."

He had experienced something similar before, twenty years ago, when he clashed with several masters from other factions. The two sides fought for three days and nights. In the end, although he killed two and injured one, he himself was utterly exhausted and severely wounded. Had it not been for someone rescuing him later, he would certainly have lost his life. The first time he practiced after recovering from his injuries, it was precisely this kind of feeling.

Xia Ruyi was unaware that Zuo Yuanmin had already begun to doubt her true gender. She thought it was her urging that caused him to choke on water, and thus said, "Brother Zuo, there is no need to rush; I will wait for you." Although Zuo Yuanmin had his suspicions, he could not be entirely certain and merely replied, "I apologize; I truly feel sorry..." After he regained his breath, he poured another glass and drank it all in one go. Yet, he still could not be completely sure and repeated, "I apologize; I truly feel sorry..." After he regained his breath, he poured another glass and drank it all in one go.

Dong Qi's demeanor shifted from arrogance to deference. Not only was Zuo Yuanmin greatly puzzled, but even the shopkeepers present were left in confusion, exchanging glances and unsure of what to make of it. Shortly thereafter, a shop assistant emerged with a handful of a yellowish substance, adorned with a few pale purple flowers. Without further ado, he divided it into seven portions using a medicinal scale and packed it into the medicine pouch prepared for Zuo Yuanmin. Zuo Yuanmin hurriedly inquired, "Wait, is this really the Five Labors Soothing Herb?" Xia Ruyi also expressed doubt, saying, "Hey, is what you brought correct? Why does it look so dirty?"

It turns out that Zuo Yuanmin had lived with Yunmeng since childhood, frequently moving in and out among a group of women. If this woman were to apply rouge and powder, she would naturally exude the fragrance of cosmetics. In contrast, a girl with a bare face, unadorned by makeup, would emit a different kind of unique, youthful scent. Although this latter fragrance is quite subtle and difficult for most to detect, for him, it was a daily experience. Sometimes, when the madam had just acquired a few young girls, and a door opened, the entire room would be filled with this scent. Zuo Yuanmin was deeply attuned to it, and he almost naturally developed this ability.

The person in the valley saw him chatting and laughing, while Zuo Yuanmin appeared pale, and remarked, "This young man has practiced for a few years, and it shows." Lu Yuting replied, "What I have learned is merely the family tradition of self-defense techniques, just some trivial skills." The person in the valley laughed and said, "Even if they are just trivial skills, one must still practice them thoroughly. Haha, I haven't forgotten about your foot injury. Rest assured, although I may act in a capricious manner, I am one who repays kindness with kindness and vengeance with vengeance, with clear distinctions between gratitude and enmity. Come here!" Haha, I haven't forgotten about your foot injury. Rest assured, although I may act in a capricious manner, I am one who repays kindness with kindness and vengeance with vengeance, with clear distinctions between gratitude and enmity. Come here!

Zuo Yuanmin touched his body and said, "Is that so? I feel about the same. After sleeping for so long, I should be feeling better." Lu Yuting replied, "That's different..." He wanted to find a method to prove it, so he walked in front of a small tree, the trunk about the size of a bowl, and said, "If you don't believe it, try punching this tree."

Lu Yuting repeatedly urged him to stay. Zuo Yuanmin, unable to resist, reluctantly said: "If he doesn't return before dark, I certainly won't have the leisure to listen to his orders." What he was thinking was surely that he would ask him to do this and that, so he resolved that when the time came, he would definitely refuse outright and then immediately leave the valley. Although he was young, he absolutely could not allow himself to be looked down upon.

The man in the valley was just about to tell him not to waste his efforts when he suddenly saw Zuo Yuanmin crouch down and dart into the cave. The man in the valley let out a cold laugh and said, "A familiar trick!" He noticed that Zuo Yuanmin was moving even faster this time, and merely using his sleeves was no longer sufficient to brush him aside. Therefore, he pushed with both palms, reaching out to give Zuo Yuanmin's back a gentle shove, as if to help him enter the cave more quickly.

Zuo Yuanmin smiled and said, "You have already laid everything out in front of me. Even if I wanted to refuse, it seems I have no way to do so." Xiahou Ruyi was overjoyed and asked, "Is this truly the case?" Zuo Yuanmin replied, "With your sincerity and the great help you have provided me, you have long been a friend of mine, Zuo Yuanmin."

Indeed, this Tongtian grass uses only its roots; the flowers on top do not belong to it, as Tongtian grass does not bloom. As he spoke, he shook the Tongtian grass a few times, causing several small flowers that were stuck to it to fall off.

As the saying goes, a greedy heart is like a snake swallowing an elephant; having gained one thing, one desires another. After the person in the valley passed the eighth level of the mental technique, he surprisingly sought to practice the ninth level. His mindset was certainly not that he could break through three barriers in one go, but rather that once a person has confidence, they can often turn the decayed into the miraculous. At this moment, if the mental technique stated that upon reaching this point, one could fly into the sky, he might indeed be able to soar into the heavens.

Zuo Yuanmin did not expect to suddenly mention his past in front of a stranger. It must be a deeply ingrained memory that made him so forgetful and speak out without thinking. He then said, "Then I can rest assured, senior, let's drink it while it's hot?" He carefully brought the bowl to his lips. The man in the valley was initially taken aback, but soon regained his composure and drank the entire bowl of medicinal soup. After that, he dismissed the two, saying he needed to focus on his internal cultivation. Zuo and Lu then took their leave and returned to the thatched cottage to rest. The man in the valley was initially taken aback, but soon regained his composure and drank the entire bowl of medicinal soup. After that, he dismissed the two, saying he needed to focus on his internal cultivation. Zuo and Lu then took their leave and returned to the thatched cottage to rest.

Zuo Yuanmin stepped forward and said, "There is no prescription; I have it memorized." The shop assistant picked up paper and pen and asked, "What medicine do you need? Just say it!" Zuo Yuanmin recalled what the person in the valley had said about his prescription not being written down. Although he was currently missing only a few ingredients, he still said, "The doctor instructed me not to write it down. I will name one medicine, and I would appreciate it if you could help me get it." The shop assistant glanced at him and replied, "Which doctor treated this illness? It sounds quite strange." Zuo Yuanmin said, "The doctor said so, and I am following his instructions. Please do not take offense!" Although he was currently missing only a few ingredients, he still said, "The doctor instructed me not to write it down. I will name one medicine, and I would appreciate it if you could help me get it." The shop assistant glanced at him and replied, "Which doctor treated this illness? It sounds quite strange." Zuo Yuanmin said, "The doctor said so, and I am following his instructions. Please do not take offense!"

Zuo Yuanmin was filled with doubts and wanted to ask Lu Yuting, so he followed her out. The scenery outside was just as he had seen before, which put him at ease. He then asked, "I remember that day when the people in the valley made us faint; how is it that we are now perfectly fine in this place?"

Zuo Yuanmin stepped forward, unsure whether to join the queue or to walk straight in. He turned back to ask Xia Ruyi, only to see him hiding several meters away, looking around aimlessly, seemingly searching for something. Zuo Yuanmin hesitated to call out, unsure whether to speak or remain silent. Suddenly, a young man approached him and said, "Are you here for a consultation? Please go to the back of the line."

Zuo Yuanmin said, "However, your whereabouts have already been leaked. From now on, all your actions must be arranged by me, and you are not allowed to act on your own, lest you leave clues everywhere and make it easy for others to trace you." Xiahou Ruyi replied, "That is exactly how it should be."

Amidst a burst of laughter, a voice suddenly emerged, coldly stating: "Dong Qi, Master Dong! You have honed your skills solely to bully the younger generation who lack martial arts prowess. How impressive you have become!"

Zuo Yuanmin was in great distress, increasingly exerting himself to resist. The robust man, seeing that he had no martial skills whatsoever, laughed heartily.

The person in the valley was taken aback, and with a swift motion, threw Zuo Yuanmin aside. Lu Yuting saw Zuo Yuanmin's body rapidly flying towards a large rock five zhang away; judging by the force of the throw, if it did not result in an immediate explosion of brain matter, it would at least lead to broken bones and torn tendons.

Zuo Yuanmin unconsciously felt afraid as he entered the cave, holding the medicine bowl, and placed it at a distance on a rock facing the people in the valley.

Lu Yuting smiled and said, "Alright, alright, everything is fine now." He lightly jumped in place and landed steadily, continuing, "Senior Gu's method is indeed effective; my foot feels as good as new, as if it has never been injured at all." Zuo Yuanmin said, "Since that's the case, now that I am awake as well, shall we leave?" Lu Yuting replied, "Leave? Where to?"

The person in the valley is hiding here to secretly practice martial arts in order to avoid disaster. He has kept his identity a closely guarded secret, not even revealing it to two insignificant individuals like Zuo Yuanmin and Lu Yuting, who possess only modest martial skills. Logically, they should not be able to know his identity, nor could they possibly bring his adversaries to confront him. However, with such concerns in his heart, he naturally tends to think in that direction. Zuo Yuanmin, pretending to be mysterious, just happens to hit his sore spot, and thus says: "What could be more important than practicing martial arts in this world? You must understand how many people in the martial world wish to learn from me. If they had such an opportunity, they wouldn't even care if the sky were to fall. Yet you still prioritize other matters."

The person in the valley gradually withdrew their smile and said, "Alright, I concede that you have a point. I promise you, as long as you defeat me, I will immediately escort you out of the valley without laying a single finger on you."

Zuo Yuanmin paused for a moment before saying, "Alright, I will follow my senior to learn martial arts." The people in the valley thought to themselves, "At least you are sensible." Just as they were about to speak about his martial arts school and other matters to pay attention to, they heard Zuo Yuanmin continue, "However, I have one more thing to attend to; I need to leave the valley for a while."

Suddenly, with a loud "bang," the shop assistant who had pushed down Zuo Yuanmin fell backward, landing on his back with his legs in the air. It was Xia Ruyi who had turned around and, using some method, tripped the shop assistant. The others, witnessing this, shouted in surprise and all rushed over. Xia Ruyi seemed oblivious to the commotion and focused on helping Zuo Yuanmin up, asking, "Brother Zuo, did you hurt yourself?"

Dong Qi then said: "Young Master Xia, is there anything else you need?" Xia Ruyi replied: "Why are you asking me? It's not me who wants to buy medicine; it's this Young Master Zuo! If you have questions, you should ask him!"

This medicine is taken once daily from mhetushu.com. Each time the person in the valley finishes drinking, they must immediately harness the medicinal effect to perform self-healing exercises. By the fourth day, the person in the valley surprisingly could take the medicine bowl with their own hands, no longer needing Zuo Yuanmin to feed them. After that, their vitality recovered, improving day by day. By the morning of the seventh day, they could move their legs, their complexion was rosy, and they appeared to have rejuvenated by about ten years. Zuo Yuanmin was astonished by the efficacy of this medicine and had never seen the person in the valley looking so spirited before. Their eyes sparkled with a faint light, resembling a wild beast that had gone hungry for several days and suddenly feasted, brimming with energy that seemed inexhaustible.

Xia Ru noticed that he drank water too quickly and choked, fearing that he might hurt himself, so she hurriedly reached out to pat his back. Zuo Yuanmin instinctively shrank back and waved his hand, saying: "No need... no need..." He then coughed a few more times.

Xiahou Ruyi sheathed his sword and smiled, saying, "Elder brother, you jest." Zuo Yuanmin replied, "So you are unwilling to remain in obscurity and want to make a name for yourself in the martial world to show your father, aren't you?" Xiahou Ruyi said, "In any case, my father only sees my two elder brothers and completely disregards me, always saying I am just a child." Zuo Yuanmin remarked, "But if you run away like this, your father will worry if he finds out." Xiahou Ruyi retorted, "Hmph, I don't care. It's best if he worries; I want him to worry!"

Xia Ruyi was taken aback and said, "You mean Tongji Hall?" Suddenly, she let out a soft laugh, covering her mouth. Zuo Yuanmin felt a bit puzzled and asked, "Is there something strange about Tongji Hall?"

Zuo Yuanmin said: "There is nothing else here, and you no longer need me. I have other matters to attend to." Lu Yuting replied: "But Senior Gu instructed that he would only wait for you to wake up to discuss something with the two of us." Zuo Yuanmin became somewhat impatient and said: "Is that so? I am not here to serve him by nature."

Xiahou Ruyi was quite pleased with himself. He adjusted his clothing, turned around in place, and said with a smile: "How about it? My outfit is quite similar, isn't it? If I don't speak, even Dong Qi might not recognize me." Zuo Yuanmin replied: "It is indeed quite similar, but why tell me this?"

Lu Yuting had practiced internal energy for several years and understood what he meant, so he said: "The Sun Bladder Meridian connects at the Tianzhu point with the Du Meridian's Dazhui point, and intersects with the Small Intestine Meridian at the Fufen point." The person in the valley replied: "That's right. Although I intend to stimulate the flow of your internal energy in the Du Meridian, I do not want you to resist. Therefore, you must remember to keep your mind free of distractions and allow my internal energy to flow freely through your meridians, do you understand"

Xia Ruyi sat upright, straightened herself, and said with a serious expression: "No, no. Right, Tongjitang, how did I not think of that? This Weicheng is most famous for Tongjitang. You see, the herbal merchants from the northern part of Henan all know that the herbs from Tongjitang are authentic and of high quality, especially with a wide variety available. They say, 'A clever woman cannot cook without rice.' No matter how skilled a person is in cooking, without ingredients, they cannot produce a dish. In Linying County, there is a renowned doctor named Chunyu Zhong, whose nickname is quite famous: 'The King of Hell in the Human World.' It is said that his medical skills are so high that as long as one can seek him for treatment, the life and death of the patient must first be reported to him by the King of Hell in the underworld! But tell me, what does he rely on? Can merely unblocking meridians and performing acupuncture truly bring the dead back to life?"

Zuo Yuanmin saw him with unkempt hair and a disheveled appearance, somewhat resembling the people in the valley. After exchanging a few pleasantries, he addressed the person from the valley: "Senior, I have returned." The valley dweller did not even lift his eyelids and replied, "You have returned earlier than I expected. Have you managed to procure everything?" Zuo Yuanmin responded, "I have fulfilled the task as requested."

Although the person in the valley could not help but feel anger, upon reflection, he realized that if the roles were reversed, this would indeed be the best approach. With this thought, his intense anger immediately transformed into surprise and admiration. He considered that although this young man was still quite young, he was quick-witted and bold, truly a person of potential. After retreating several steps and suddenly extending his right hand to clearly see the incoming stick, he flicked it with his hand. Left Yuanmin felt a numbness in his hand and could no longer hold on, causing the wooden stick to slip from his grasp. After retreating several steps and suddenly extending his right hand to clearly see the incoming stick, he flicked it with his hand. Left Yuanmin felt a numbness in his hand and could no longer hold on, causing the wooden stick to slip from his grasp

Zuo Yuanmin thought: "The foremost task at hand is to deliver the medicinal herbs to the valley, first to cure the illness of my senior, and then to have him assist in treating Lu Yuting's foot. Once everything is in order, I should travel through the martial world while searching for news of my sister Yun. As for Miss Feng, since I lack the ability to rescue her, there is no need to waste effort; at most, I can help spread some rumors in the martial world, so that her father might hear and go to rescue his daughter himself." He considered that many aspects of Lu Yuting's personality clashed with his own, and it would be best to part ways with him after leaving the valley, out of sight and out of mind. However, wandering alone would also be lonely; it would be better to travel with Xiahou Ruyi, which would certainly be much better than being with Lu Yuting. It would be best to part ways with him after leaving the valley, out of sight and out of mind. However, wandering alone would also be lonely; it would be better to travel with Xiahou Ruyi, which would certainly be much better than being with Lu Yuting.

Dong Qi smiled and said, "Yes, yes, I am truly confused. Who would spend their own money to buy their own things? Is there anything else you need, Young Master Zuo?"

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Zuo Yuanmin was furious and shouted, "Step aside, is this how Tongji Hall treats its customers?" He reached out to push the man away. The sturdy man laughed heartily, one large hand coming down over Zuo's head, as if he were toying with a child. Indeed, Zuo Yuanmin was small and had short arms; he felt a tightness on his forehead, and his push did not reach the sturdy man. Those nearby couldn't help but laugh at the scene.

The sturdy man sized up Xia Ruyi for a moment, as if he found her somewhat familiar, and said: "Who are you? How do you know my name? If you know what’s good for you, just leave quickly; I won’t stoop to your level." Xia Ruyi replied: "Pah! If I were to stoop to your level, wouldn’t that be a great misfortune for me? If you know what’s good for you, let go quickly and hand over the items; I won’t stoop to your level."

When others seek his assistance, if they advise him with kind words, he will likely comply with their wishes eight or nine times out of ten. However, when the people in the valley speak derisively of his lack of discernment, he immediately becomes defensive, using the pair of horns on his head to confront his opponents, harboring an attitude of indifference, as if to say, "What can you do to me?"

Zuo Yuanmin felt utterly helpless; he could not resort to force. However, if he simply backed down, would that not mean all his efforts were in vain? Just as he was at a loss, someone suddenly spoke from behind: "It is truly strange. Since these items cannot be purchased, why does Tongji Hall still have stock? If they are not for sale, are they meant for personal use? You can report to the authorities, but can I not do the same?" Zuo Yuanmin recognized the voice and turned around to find it was indeed Xia Ruyi.

Valley dweller: "What is so important?" Zuo Yuanmin: "This... this is none of your business. In any case, I must go out for a while." The valley dweller, seeing him hesitate to speak, thought that his stumbling into this valley was indeed an accident. However, he had just gone out to buy medicine for him, and now he was entangled in matters, which was rather strange. Could it be that he had arranged for helpers outside, intending to bring them in to deal with him? He thought that his stumbling into this valley was indeed an accident. However, he had just gone out to buy medicine for him, and now he was entangled in matters, which was rather strange. Could it be that he had arranged for helpers outside, intending to bring them in to deal with him?

Although the person in the valley was secretly astonished, he did not lose his composure. After adjusting his breathing for a long time, he gradually regained the sensation of internal energy flowing through his meridians. After repeated practice, he then contemplated: "The power I have lost this time amounts to nearly twenty years of cultivation. It seems that I will have to retrain my seventh-level heart method." Glancing at the two on the left, he thought: "Even if I were to kill the two of them right now, I would not be able to recover my power. Moreover, they have shown me kindness; if I repay their kindness with enmity, would I not be no different from those bandits?"

After walking for quite some time, just before sunset, the two finally arrived at the stream before the entrance to the valley. Zuo Yuanmin found a farmhouse to stay at for the night and said to Xiahou Ruyi: "The senior in the valley has a peculiar temperament, and it is difficult to discern between right and wrong. If he sees that I have brought an extra person with me, there may be unforeseen consequences. Therefore, I will go in alone tomorrow, and you should wait here. The prescription only requires seven doses, at most eight or nine days, and I will come out."

Then Dong Qi released Zuo Yuanmin and said to Xia Ruyi: "Kid, I didn't expect you to really dare to take action?" Xia Ruyi replied: "You are bullying others with your power; are you not afraid that Lord Xiahou will find out?" Upon hearing the words "Lord Xiahou," Dong Qi couldn't help but glance at Xia Ruyi again. Suddenly, his expression became strange as he pointed at Xia Ruyi and said: "Ah, you..." In an instant, Xia Ruyi drew his sword from its sheath, pointing the tip at Dong Qi, and said: "Since you know to consider the old master's face, then you still have some sense... Forget it, have someone bring out the medicinal materials that Young Master Zuo needs, and I will not report this incident." Suddenly, his expression became strange as he pointed at Xia Ruyi and said: "Ah, you..." In an instant, Xia Ruyi drew his sword from its sheath, pointing the tip at Dong Qi, and said: "Since you know to consider the old master's face, then you still have some sense... Forget it, have someone bring out the medicinal materials that Young Master Zuo needs, and I will not report this incident."

Zuo Yuanmin stopped and said, "Then shouldn't you honestly tell me who you really are? And why are you helping me?" Xia Ruyi pretended to be serious and replied, "Yes, I am willing to confess! May the honorable judge show mercy!" Suddenly, with a sly glint in her eyes, she added, "This matter is quite lengthy to explain; why don't we find a place to sit?"

The shop assistant exchanged glances with the companion in the store and said, "Alright, go ahead and speak." Zuo Yuanmin repeatedly apologized before finally mentioning the name of the first medicine. The shop assistant's expression changed slightly as he said, "This item is quite precious; do you have enough money for that much?"

Seeing the attitude of the shopkeeper towards Dong Qi, there was no longer any doubt. He quickly took out the abacus, fiddled with it for a moment, and then reported the total price. Zuo Yuanmin complied and paid the silver. To avoid any prolonged delays, he took the items and turned to leave. Dong Qi accompanied him to the door, maintaining a respectful demeanor without any further changes.

Zuo Yuanmin said: "Well, that settles it. The Lord Xiahou you just mentioned in Tongjitang, what is your relationship with him?" Xiahou Ruyi replied: "That is my father. I have two older brothers; the eldest is named Xiahou Junshi, and he is in charge of almost all the family business, truly a distinguished gentleman. My second brother is named Xiahou Wuguo, referred to as the second gentleman by others. His skills are exceptional; my father often sends him out on errands, and every time he returns, he brings back a crowd of people. Everyone praises his skills and strong capabilities..." At this point, he suddenly stood up, drew his sword from its sheath, and casually performed a few sword moves. Zuo Yuanmin observed him moving with the sword, graceful and agile, resembling a flying dragon or phoenix, truly a sight to behold. Although he did not understand the intricacies of swordsmanship, he could not help but exclaim: "Excellent!"

The man from the valley said, "I have always been a man of my word; what I have said cannot be false." Zuo Yuanmin replied, "But your martial arts are superior to mine. If you were to lose to me, you would lose face and would immediately kill me. Whether it hurts me or not is merely a matter of sweet talk!" Upon hearing this, the man from the valley nearly laughed himself into a fit, and after a while, he said, "Am I going to lose to you? Stop dreaming."

Zuo Yuanmin exclaimed "Ah" in surprise. He was not astonished that Xiahou Ruyi was indeed a woman, but rather that she had so easily revealed this secret to him.

Zuo Yuanmin asked, "If you don't leave, are you planning to stay here for a lifetime?" Lu Yuting replied, "A lifetime is impossible, but for now, I cannot leave."

The two found a large tree for shade and sat at its roots. Xia Ruyi said seriously: "I truly apologize, I did not intend to deceive you. Let me be honest, I do not actually have the surname Xia; my surname is Xiahou, and my name is Xiahou Ruyi. My family has lived in Weicheng for four generations, engaged in the business of selling medicinal materials. The Tongji Hall we visited today... is actually part of my family's enterprise." Zuo Yuanmin replied: "So that is why Dong Qicai treats you with such respect and even said he would send medicinal materials to me."

Zuo Yuanmin was skeptical, clenching his right fist and feinting a few times, he said: "Is that true?" Lu Yuting replied: "Why not give it a try and see for yourself"

Zuo Yuanmin called out to the heavens, but there was no response; he called out to the earth, yet it remained unresponsive. Overcome with inexplicable fear, he suddenly broke out in a cold sweat. At that moment, a burning sensation began to spread from his right wrist. For a moment, Zuo Yuanmin thought he had been injured and was bleeding, but he quickly realized something was amiss. This burning sensation continued to rise along his wrist, elbow, and arm, then wrapped around his right shoulder blade, subsequently spreading throughout his entire body. He was in excruciating pain, drenched in sweat, with only one thought in his mind: "I am going to die, I am about to die..."

Lu Yuting understood that the person from the valley needed to expend his internal energy to help him unblock the acupoint on his foot, and he readily agreed. At this moment, Zuo Yuanmin had also stopped feeling dizzy and stood guard nearby. He saw the person from the valley extend his palm to press against Lu Yuting's back, and the expressions of both individuals suddenly turned serious, as if time itself had come to a standstill in this cave.

The person in the valley seemed to be immersed in a certain emotion, but at this moment, he made an effort to pull himself back. After a brief pause, he said, "Indeed, I will recite it for you now." He then detailed the method for preparing the medicinal formula thoroughly. Zuo Yuanmin memorized it carefully, and upon finding usable earthenware jars and ceramic bowls in the thatched cottage, he first set about preparing the first batch of medicine. During the process, if he encountered any lapses or omissions, he would immediately turn back to seek guidance. After having practically gone through the entire procedure once, although these steps were quite complex, they became firmly etched in his memory, never to be forgotten again.

Indeed, Zuo Yuanmin felt a sudden heavy push from behind. He momentarily lost his footing, and before he knew it, his head was heavier than his feet, causing him to lurch forward and fall. He landed right at the entrance of the cave, narrowly avoiding tumbling inside.

He got off the kang, moved his limbs, and felt no difference at all. Just as he was wondering what had happened, the door opened and a person walked in, smiling: "Brother Zuo, you are awake! How do you feel?" It was Lu Yuting.

Zuo Yuanmin was furious and turned to leave, but a figure from the valley swiftly blocked his path. Zuo Yuanmin said, "Get out of the way!" The figure replied, "If you want to leave, you must rely on your true abilities." Zuo Yuanmin was taken aback at first, but soon realized that the figure was deliberately trying to make things difficult for him. Without saying another word, he circumvented the figure and rushed towards the cave. Just as he was about to enter the cave, a shadow flashed before him, blocking his way. Zuo Yuanmin was unable to dodge in time and collided forcefully, resulting in a loud "bang" as he was knocked back and fell to the ground.

The person in the valley silently recited the ninth level of the mental technique, contemplating: "This technique states that to practice the eighth level, one must first have the strength of seven years at the seventh level, yet I have achieved it in just one hour. It also says that to practice the ninth level, one must have the foundation of eight years at the eighth level. Now, I am curious to see how much time this will take me?" Following the prescribed method, progressing step by step. His heart reached, his intention reached, his energy reached, and he effortlessly broke through each barrier. He thought again, "To practice the ninth level, one must have the foundation of eight years at the eighth level. Now, I am curious to see how much time this will take me?" Following the prescribed method, progressing step by step. His heart reached, his intention reached, his energy reached, and he effortlessly broke through each barrier. The person in the valley was both surprised and delighted, thinking: "What is so difficult about this? They actually claim it will take fifteen years!" In less than the time it takes for a stick of incense to burn, he completed the ninth level.

Zuo Yuanmin heard his voice filled with unusual excitement, and it seemed he wanted to share his current achievement with someone, likely with no other intention. Thus, he boldly walked in behind Lu Yuting. Upon arriving at the rock where the person usually sat in the valley, they could not see him. Just as they were searching for him, a voice suddenly rang out behind them: "I am here!" The two quickly turned around, only to see several shadowy figures in front of them, flickering in and out, making it impossible to discern what they were. Lu Yuting shouted, "Senior, is that you?"

Dong Qi, for some reason, resembled a mouse encountering a cat, instantly transforming into a different person, his face displaying an awkwardness that was palpable. After stammering for a long while, he finally said: "But I... I... this..." Xia Ruyi interjected: "Was what I just said not clear enough?" Dong Qi nodded and replied: "It is clear, but the Five Labors of Tongtian Grass is no trivial matter. A few days ago, the Second Master and Master Ding Pan joined forces to injure a flying thief, and the old master said..." Xia Ruyi, somewhat impatient, said: "What are you telling me all this for? Are you going to give it or not?"

Seeing that the situation was not right, and wishing to avoid further trouble while hoping to purchase the Five Labor Soothing Herb, Zuo Yuanmin said: "Since Tongjitang also has medicinal materials that cannot be obtained, we might as well leave. Why should we take advantage of our numbers to bully the few? However, you can rest assured that after we leave, we will not mention this matter to anyone, so as not to tarnish the reputation of Tongjitang"

Xia Ruyi seemed to be lost in thought for a moment, then said, "Does Wei City have any specialties? How come I don't know about them?" Zuo Yuanmin found it difficult to explain at that moment and simply replied, "I am entrusted with a task, and it is a matter of loyalty. I am in a hurry to get back!" Xia Ruyi responded, "What is so urgent? Why not let me know, big brother? I am quite familiar with Wei City. Whether it's food or necessities, you can count on me to handle it, and I can get it done for you right away."

The sturdy man let out a cold laugh and said, "You little brat, unaware of the vastness of the world, do you know what the Five Labors of Heaven Grass is used for? Don't let yourself be exploited, becoming a scapegoat, and when you reach the Hall of Yama, you won't even know how you died"

Zuo Yuanmin thought to himself: "I have never been to Weicheng, and I have no idea what Tongjitang looks like. If only I had an acquaintance to guide me, I wouldn't have to ask around everywhere." Having made up his mind, he said: "I want to enter the city to find a pharmacy called 'Tongjitang.' Does Brother Xia know where it is?"

This ordeal is exceptionally painful; compared to being possessed, it is an entirely different experience. The person from the valley had originally soared from hell to heaven, but now has suddenly fallen back into hell. The immense contrast has made him feel even more tormented, as if it were better to be dead than alive

The two of them continued south for about twenty miles, and finally saw the city gate of Weicheng. Xia Ruyi took the initiative to lead the way, and after entering the city, they headed east. Before long, they turned through the bustling market and arrived at a quiet alley. Xia Ruyi pointed ahead and said: "That is Tongji Hall. There is a large plaque on the main gate, and two big flags in front of the door. There are some people queuing under the flags, so it is easy to recognize. Please go ahead, elder brother; I will follow behind."

Zuo Yuanmin was skeptical, but Lu Yuting had already fully immersed himself in it. He quickly said, "Brother Zuo, you might not be aware of the situation because you haven't practiced martial arts. I will honestly tell you that I now feel full of energy, as if I have an inexhaustible strength. This is completely different from my previous experiences with training. The skills of the ancient master are truly extraordinary. I am serious; there is nothing more to consider!" He patted Zuo Yuanmin on the shoulder.

Upon hearing this, Xia Ruyi was utterly convinced and sincerely submitted, saying: "I, as your younger brother, knew I was wrong, but I did not expect my mistake to be so outrageous. Your teachings are well taken, and I will remember them in my heart." He then rose and performed a bow. Zuo Yuanmin, being humble, declined to accept it and rose to return the gesture.

Zuo Yuanmin was content and satisfied, resting early. The next day, he hired a boat to cross the river, following the same path into the valley. Soon, he saw the person in the valley still sitting on the rock, as if he had not moved at all during these days. On the other side, Lu Yuting was leaning against the cave, either dozing off or something similar. Hearing footsteps approaching, he suddenly woke up, and upon seeing Zuo Yuanmin, he was overjoyed, extremely happy. He quickly got up and said, "You have returned." His demeanor relaxed considerably. It turned out that during these days, in addition to taking care of his own needs, he also had to assist the person in the valley with his daily life, which was indeed a torment for someone with limited mobility.

He was wholeheartedly focused on winning Yunmeng's favor, and whether or not he truly wanted to pursue the path of the martial world was of little concern to him. Now that the opportunity lay before him, he couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. However, learning martial arts was no easy task. Especially with more advanced skills, it was difficult to see any progress without three to five years of hard work. Thus, he said, "It is good, but how much time will it take to learn?" The thought of staying in this valley for five or ten years was something he had not mentally prepared for.

At the same time, he felt a rich and abundant internal energy coursing through his entire body, which seemed to hold great potential for use. Thus, he boldly decided to practice again what he referred to as his divine skill, and once more attempted to break through the seventh level barrier that he had aimed to surpass but had failed to do so on that day.

Xiahou Ruyi was filled with joy and began to dance with excitement. After a while, he could not help but express his exhilaration: "This is truly wonderful; I have made my first friend. From now on, I will no longer be alone."

He had already made up his mind and felt quite pleased with himself, so he went to check on the conditions of Zuo and Lu. He originally thought that he had evenly imparted his twenty years of skill to them, but upon examining their pulses, he found that Zuo Yuanmin, who had joined later, exhibited a much stronger internal energy response than Lu Yuting. After a moment of contemplation, he understood the reason behind this.

Lu Yuting smiled and said: "That day was a misunderstanding. Senior Gu has already explained it to me. He said that at that time he wanted to repay us, but he did not know what would be good for us or what we truly desired. So he simply took the opportunity to open our meridians and shared some of his internal energy with us. Don't you feel that ever since we woke up, our spirits have been invigorated and our vitality has been abundant, quite different from how we felt before?"

The mocking words ceased abruptly, and the robust man turned sharply, exclaiming: "Who dares to make fun of the master!" The gazes of the crowd followed the strong man. Zuo Yuanmin recognized that the voice belonged to Xia Ruyi. Although he possessed martial skills, he was ultimately a woman, and this man was tall and strong, someone even an ordinary man would not provoke. He said: "Brother Xia, you should leave first; I believe he wouldn't dare to do anything to me!" Zuo Yuanmin recognized that the voice belonged to Xia Ruyi. Although he possessed martial skills, he was ultimately a woman, and this man was tall and strong, someone even an ordinary man would not provoke. He said: "Brother Xia, you should leave first; I believe he wouldn't dare to do anything to me!"

Since this step is not feasible, I immediately thought: "I might as well impart a few key skills to them, without requiring them to formally apprentice. After they have learned, when they engage with others in the martial world, discerning individuals will surely notice, which will inevitably stir up a great commotion. Perhaps within a few days, they might even be killed, and that would be a clean break; however, it is also possible that they could truly cause my adversary to lose sleep and appetite, which would be an additional gain.

Yet, Zuo Yuanmin remained motionless in his original posture. The person in the valley felt a surge of doubt: "Could it be that my martial arts have advanced significantly recently, to the point where I cannot even control my strength when I strike?" He reached out to grasp Zuo Yuanmin's back, lifting him up. Seeing that Zuo Yuanmin's body was completely limp and his eyes tightly shut, he felt a bit alarmed and used his other hand to check his pulse. Unexpectedly, Zuo Yuanmin suddenly let out a loud shout and bit down on the arm of the person in the valley.

Only then did Xia Ruyi lift her left foot, stepping down precisely on the hoe beneath her, while simultaneously reversing the sword hilt in her hand. With a loud "bang," she struck the man in the waist. The man let out a loud cry, dropped the hoe, and rolled to the side in pain. The others, witnessing this, were greatly alarmed and shouted, "What audacity! How dare you come here to cause trouble; do you not wish to live?" "Quick, someone, surround this brat and make sure he doesn't escape."

Then Zuo Yuanmin thought to himself: "If you don't have this item for sale, the shopkeeper should just tell me directly that it is unavailable. Why do you have to turn around and look at your expression? And why do you say I remembered it wrong?" He speculated that there was indeed this item for sale at Tongjitang, but for some reason, they were unwilling to sell it. He then said: "Shopkeeper, I have heard that the most famous medicinal materials in Weicheng are from Tongjitang. Even the renowned physician Chunyudai has to come here to buy medicine. Just think, if even Tongjitang doesn't sell this medicine, where else could it possibly be available?"

Zuo Yuanmin, feeling indignant, said, "Of course there is, just wait and see." He casually picked up a stone from the ground and threw it into the valley. The person in the valley was quite displeased and thought to himself, "Is he throwing stones at me? Does this kid intend to mock me?" With a casual flick, he deflected the flying stone. Zuo Yuanmin continued to throw several more stones, and the outcome was the same each time.

Unexpectedly, when he pulled, his fingers felt as if they had touched a piece of red-hot iron. Zuo Yuanmin let out a loud cry and quickly withdrew his hand. At that moment, the person from the valley suddenly reached out with his left hand and grabbed Zuo Yuanmin's right wrist. Zuo Yuanmin was greatly alarmed and struggled to break free, but he could not move the person from the valley even a fraction. In a panic, he shouted, "Senior, what do you intend to do?"

The person in the valley kept his eyes tightly closed, unmoved by anything and offering no response. Zuo Yuanmin was greatly astonished and hurriedly used his left hand to pry the person in the valley's fingers that were gripping his own. Suddenly, he felt the strength in his left hand gradually fading away; just as his hand reached three inches from the wrist of the person in the valley, it could no longer move forward even a fraction.

It turned out that both Lu and the other person were forced to accept the internal energy from the people in the valley almost simultaneously. However, Lu Yuting had already practiced internal skills with his father, Lu Jianhong, since childhood, and had accumulated about six to seven years of rudimentary cultivation.

***

Zuo Yuanmin knew that it was impossible for her to go back now, so she asked, "Then, do you have anywhere you want to go, little sister?" Xiahou Ruyi replied, "No, I have been running away from home for a few days, wandering around within a radius of several dozen miles from Weicheng. The world is so vast, I really don't know where I should go. Where are you headed, big brother? Can I accompany you for a while?"

At this point, Xia Ruyi appeared somewhat animated and continued, "Perhaps others do not know that this earthly King of Hell sends people every month to Tongji Hall to procure medicinal materials. Therefore, I say, if Chunyu Zhong is the earthly King of Hell, then isn't Tongji Hall just the judge's pen in his hand and the register of life and death on his desk"

Suddenly, a voice like thunder resounded from the back hall, shouting: "Who is making such a commotion in the front hall?" A shop assistant rushed in, and soon the sound of boots echoed. A tall and robust man emerged from the back hall, exuding an imposing presence, and said: "Who has the audacity to cause trouble at Tongji Hall?"

When the "thing" that the people in the valley relied on for their lives suddenly escaped, how could they hesitate or be polite? They quickly reached out and grabbed Lu Yuting's ankle. Lu Yuting's leap was obstructed, and he naturally fell forward, his forehead hitting the ground, nearly losing consciousness.

As the two of them, Zuo and Lu, had yet to decide whether to rush in, they heard the person in the valley laughing from within the cave: "Ha, ha, ha, dear little friends, come on in! Take a look, not only have I opened all the meridians in my body, but I have also mastered the skills I had before I fell into madness in one go... Ha, ha, ha, my skills are complete, yet no one in the martial world knows of it. You two are the first to witness my abilities, so why not come in and broaden your horizons!"

In fact, he is now in a position where he can only be at the mercy of others; survival is certainly unattainable, and even seeking death may not be guaranteed.

The man in the valley laughed heartily and said, "Good, good, interesting, interesting, you are quite amusing!" Zuo Yuanmin seized the opportunity and replied, "Now you see!" The man in the valley said, "People like you, who can only talk and do not put it into practice, I have seen many, and it is all the same.

Upon recognizing Zuo Yuanmin, the shopkeeper suddenly realized: "So you two are in cahoots, today you are just here to amuse yourselves at my expense. Get lost, get lost, I won't sell!" Xia Ruyi's anger flared even more as she forcefully shook off Zuo Yuanmin's grasp and shouted: "Call the boss out, call the boss out!"

Without exception, every time Zuo Yuanmin mentioned a particular item, the shop assistant's expression would change slightly. Subsequently, he would ask Zuo Yuanmin to first show the silver coins. Before long, the amount of silver on the counter increased significantly. The shop assistant who was attending to Zuo Yuanmin ran to the back hall several times to keep an eye on the precious medicinal materials displayed on the counter. Upon hearing the news, the shopkeeper came out from the back hall to personally attend to Zuo Yuanmin and secretly instructed two individuals to guard the entrance, to prevent him from suddenly snatching the medicinal materials and fleeing. The shop assistant who was attending to Zuo Yuanmin ran to the back hall several times to keep an eye on the precious medicinal materials displayed on the counter. Upon hearing the news, the shopkeeper came out from the back hall to personally attend to Zuo Yuanmin and secretly instructed two individuals to guard the entrance, to prevent him from suddenly snatching the medicinal materials and fleeing.

Zuo Yuanmin stood up and said, "Wherever I fall in love, I shall go there; it is fundamentally no one else's business!" Before he finished speaking, he darted to the right side of the person in the valley. The person in the valley stood ten steps away from the cave entrance. Although Zuo Yuanmin had slipped past him, his eyes remained fixed on him, and he wondered in his heart, "Why is he not making a move?" He then saw the person in the valley not turning his head, waving his left sleeve, and Zuo Yuanmin suddenly felt as if his body was about to float up. His feet abruptly found no ground, his body tilted, and he fell against the stone wall beside the cave.

Although Zuo Yuanmin had only spent a few days with the people in this valley, he clearly understood that this person, who was unwilling to even reveal their real name, could not possibly be someone with such a kind heart, always considering others first. However, the facts now lay before him, compelling him to reassess his position and whether he held any preconceived notions. In the end, he could only conclude: "Am I not judging a gentleman's heart with the mind of a petty person?"

Zuo Yuanmin, in a daze, asked: "How long have I been asleep?" Lu Yuting replied: "Not long, just a little over two days. I heard you calling from outside, so I came in to check on you." He continued: "Let's go, since you're awake, you should get up and move around a bit. It will help your body."

Zuo Yuanmin Da Le said, "Alright, take this!" Unbeknownst to when, he swung a wooden stick in his hand and aimed it at the person in the valley. Lu Yuting was also greatly alarmed upon seeing this and shouted, "Brother Zuo, don’t!" The person in the valley's expression changed, and he shouted, "You..." His body swiftly dodged to the side.

The shopkeeper, unaware that Xia Ruyi and Zuo Yuanmin were together, thought someone was trying to show off and said, "What do you know, little child? I said there isn't any, so there isn't! Go on, go! This is not a place for you to play around." He then addressed Zuo Yuanmin, saying, "Young brother, if you wish to buy something else, we would be more than happy to assist you. However, if you insist on purchasing something we do not have, then I can only ask you to seek elsewhere."

Suddenly, he heard the person in front of him say this, and his heart sank, feeling a deep sense of sorrow. He replied, "In the end, it comes down to not selling, right? If that's the case, then there's nothing more to discuss." He turned to leave. The sturdy man suddenly stepped forward, blocking his way, and said, "Wait, who exactly sent you here to buy the Five Labor Heaven Grass? If you do not clarify this, it will be very difficult for you to leave here today"

Zuo Yuanmin only knew that the people in the valley wanted him to go to Tongji Hall to seek the elusive medicinal herbs, but he was unaware of the remarkable background of Tongji Hall. Upon hearing Xia Ruyi speak so knowledgeably about it, he thought to himself, "I didn't expect that at such a young age, he would have such experience." He then said, "Since Brother Xia is so familiar with Tongji Hall, could you please guide me on the way there"

Zuo Yuanmin said: "So you are not my master, and I am not your disciple. I learn when I want to, and I do not learn when I do not want to; that is merely me giving myself the opportunity. Is that what you mean?"

When the person from the valley turned the tables and attempted to invade his body, the internal energy that originally existed within him naturally activated to resist. The result of the clash between the two opposing energies, with a significant disparity in strength, led to the dissipating of Lu Yuting's originally feeble internal energy. Meanwhile, Zuo Yuanmin, having no internal energy at all, faced no obstacles to the true energy brought by the person from the valley, absorbing it entirely. Thus, as one diminished, the other grew; the majority of the valley person's twenty years of cultivation entered Zuo Yuanmin's body. In comparison, Lu Yuting's internal cultivation level remained relatively unchanged from before he was affected by the valley person's internal energy, merely having exchanged one brand for another. Zuo Yuanmin, having no internal energy at all, faced no obstacles to the true energy brought by the person from the valley, absorbing it entirely. Thus, as one diminished, the other grew; the majority of the valley person's twenty years of cultivation entered Zuo Yuanmin's body. In comparison, Lu Yuting's internal cultivation level remained relatively unchanged from before he was affected by the valley person's internal energy, merely having exchanged one brand for another.

The shopkeeper's face showed difficulty as he said, "Don't mention seven coins; I don't have even one coin. Young brother, I only spoke so much because I saw you were generous with your money. You should take the rest of the items and leave first! If others find out you are here to buy poison, they might report you to the authorities and have you arrested." By the end, his tone even carried a hint of intimidation.

Xia Ruyi was overjoyed, and suddenly seemed to recall something. In a teasing tone, she said, "Brother Zuo, wait a moment..." She stood up and walked into the tent. Shortly after, she brought out two plates of peanuts and sunflower seeds, placing them on the table, and said, "Elder brother, please allow me to treat you to tea, and I will treat you to peanuts!"

A commotion erupted among the crowd. One of the shop assistants, having gone to the back garden at some point to fetch a hoe, volunteered with a shout, saying: "You little brat, spouting nonsense! If I don't teach you a lesson, you'll think Tongji Hall is just a hotel or restaurant, and that you can order people around here!" With that, he swung the hoe down towards the man's foot. The man named Dong Qi wanted to shout a warning, but it was already too late.

The person in the valley coldly snorted and said, "If I accidentally hurt him, then that would count as my defeat."

Zuo Yuanmin maintained a stern expression and said, "It is difficult to make definitive statements about the matters of this world. If the younger generation can never surpass their elders, then why do we practice so diligently? Is it not to strive to catch up?"

In this way, the person in the valley merely changed direction and continued to channel the excess internal energy from Lu Yuting's Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian into his body, without any hindrance. At that moment, Zuo Yuanmin launched an attack against him. The person in the valley was troubled by the slow release of internal energy using only his right hand, but Zuo Yuanmin came to him uninvited, leaving no room for politeness. With a swift motion of his left hand, he firmly grasped Zuo Yuanmin's right wrist, and the excess internal energy immediately surged through the He Gu point at the base of his thumb, flowing into the Yang Gu point on Zuo Yuanmin's wrist. At that moment, Zuo Yuanmin launched an attack against him. The person in the valley was troubled by the slow release of internal energy using only his right hand, but Zuo Yuanmin came to him uninvited, leaving no room for politeness. With a swift motion of his left hand, he firmly grasped Zuo Yuanmin's right wrist, and the excess internal energy immediately surged through the He Gu point at the base of his thumb, flowing into the Yang Gu point on Zuo Yuanmin's wrist. Similarly, Zuo Yuanmin's pathway along the Hand Taiyang Small Intestine Meridian was completely sealed off by this torrent, forcibly accepting the true energy bestowed by the person in the valley.

On the seventh day after taking the medicine, the person in the valley felt invigorated, as if their energy was inexhaustible. After completing the process of unblocking the meridians, they adjusted their internal energy and performed several cycles of both the small and large circulations to ensure that all their meridians were unobstructed, confirming their complete recovery

The person in the valley detected the scent of the medicine, his face lighting up with joy, and said: "Indeed, this is the scent of the medicine. Although I have never tasted it, forty years ago, I served it to my master in the same manner. At that time, I nervously held the medicine bowl, and the aroma wafting from it rushed towards my nostrils, both strong and pungent. I knew that if I accidentally sneezed, it would spell disaster. That scent from back then is something I will never forget. Yes, it is precisely this scent.

The two of them finished a pot of tea, exchanged a few casual remarks, and then set off. Along the way, Xia Ruyi was lively and cheerful, displaying a bold demeanor. If it weren't for Zuo Yuanmin's particular sensitivity to the scent of women, he might have almost forgotten that she was a woman. However, since Xia Ruyi had chosen to disguise herself in this manner, she clearly did not wish to present herself as a woman. Therefore, Zuo Yuanmin found it inappropriate to point this out and treated her as if she were a man, engaging in conversation as such

Zuo Yuanmin understood from his words that he intended to teach him a few skills. As for the abilities of the people in this valley, Zuo Yuanmin had some basis for comparison. Just looking at the way he moved back and forth in the cave that day, even the two esteemed figures from the North, Jiang Daqian and Yu Wanxiang, might not be able to match him. He thought that if he could truly learn a few of his skills, when they met again in Yunmeng in the future, he would surely be treated with greater respect.

The sturdy man said, "What nonsense are you talking about?" The shopkeeper stepped forward and whispered, "Master Dong, this young brother wants to buy Five Labor Heaven Grass." The sturdy man frowned and said, "Old shopkeeper, are you confused? When someone comes asking for this thing, why don't you ask clearly before letting him go?" The shopkeeper replied, "I thought he was just a child..."

Lu Yuting exclaimed, "How could that be?" Zuo Yuanmin shot him a glare but was too pained to pay him much attention. Lu Yuting continued, "I know, it's because you don't have any martial arts skills, so you don't know how to punch and exert force. I still know these basics; come, let me teach you..."

This feeling was unprecedented for Zuo Yuanmin. Logically, if his hands were powerless, they should have drooped down, yet his arms remained fixed in place, unable to extend forward or retreat. They felt both sore and numb, and he truly could not muster a single ounce of strength. This strange sensation showed no signs of easing with the passage of time; instead, it gradually spread outward from his arms, and soon he found himself unable to move at all, even unable to open his mouth to call out.

Suddenly, his body, filled with genuine energy, began to flow out from the Hand Taiyin Lung Meridian, much like an inflated balloon or a flooding river that had suddenly found an outlet. In that moment, the person in the valley no longer cared about the consequences; he directed this erratic internal energy into the Hand Taiyin Lung Meridian. At that time, his palms were still pressed against Lu Yuting's back, and this internal energy traveled from the Zhongfu and Yunmen points all the way to the Lieque and Taiyuan points, finally pouring into Lu Yuting's Fufen and Tianzhu points.

Zuo Yuanmin had a hard time following the instructions of the person in the valley, and finally brewed a bowl of dark and thick medicinal soup. As he carried the soup into the cave, a strong and pungent medicinal aroma immediately filled the entire cave.

After an unknown amount of time had passed, Lu Yuting's face alternated between red and pale, beads of sweat like yellow beans continuously rolling down his forehead, his clothes soaked in a large patch. The person in the valley, however, appeared solemn, his sleeves billowing high, and faint wisps of steam rising from above his head, as if both were at a critical juncture. Suddenly, Lu Yuting let out a loud shout and leaped from the rock. The person in the valley extended his right arm and swiftly grasped Lu Yuting's right ankle. Lu Yuting's momentum was halted, and he fell headfirst from the rock, upside down, yet his right foot remained in the grip of the person in the valley. In a moment of panic, Luo Yuanmin felt something was amiss and rushed forward, only to see the person in the valley with his eyes tightly shut, baring his teeth, while Lu Yuting had lost consciousness, unaware of his fate.

However, this thought of his lasted only a moment, and he immediately countered himself, saying: "No, if we really want to teach them to a certain level, we can make it a master-apprentice collaboration, then it would at least take another fifteen to twenty years... I cannot wait that long anymore." Although his martial arts skills were high, his personality was rather impatient and eager for success; otherwise, he would not have ended up in this situation.