A Thousand Years of Elegance Discussed in Laughter (Complete) - 10

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Volume Fifteen: The Martial Arts Alliance Leader's Determination, Chapter Thirteen: Caught Off Guard

. "Xiaoyao—" Meng Ruyan gracefully turned her delicate body, calling out sweetly as she ran to Ren Xiaoyao's side. Her beautiful eyes swept over the four women, revealing a captivating expression that was both reproachful and charming. She parted her lips slightly and softly said, "Originally, I wouldn't allow you to make friends with girls outside, but these sisters are all so beautiful and charming, I'll forgive you. So, when are you going to marry them off?"
Ren Xiaoyao was taken aback. How had his fierce senior sister become so gentle? Was there some kind of trickery involved?
Meng Ruyan gave him a playful glare, her eyes sparkling with delight. Even Ren Xiaoyao was taken aback by the sight, as if they were flirting: "Men, having multiple wives and concubines is perfectly normal. Next time you fancy a girl, don't hide it from me, just say so. I won't mind."
Ren Xiaoyao suddenly realized something was amiss, but before he could speak, Meng Ruyan pressed her lips to his, smiling gently: "Don't worry, no matter how many women surround you, I'll still treat you as well as before. After all, I have to set a good example for my sisters."
Nangong Fengzi, Shui Furong, and Lin Yuxiu, upon hearing this, genuinely believed Meng Ruyan was Ren Xiaoyao's first wife, and exclaimed in unison.
Ren Xiaoyao hurriedly explained, "Fengzi, Furong, Xiuxiu, don't listen to my senior sister's nonsense, she..." Before he could finish, he received another slap across the face.
Even Nangong Fengyi's beautiful eyes dimmed this time, a resentful look involuntarily appearing on her face. Who in the world, besides his wife, would dare to publicly reprimand Ren Xiaoyao? Yet Ren Xiaoyao had never mentioned it to her, and judging from the expressions of the other girls, they seemed unaware as well. Was he deliberately trying to hide it?
Meng Ruyan feigned a pitiful look, pouting, "We've been childhood sweethearts, growing up together. Father treats you better than his own son. Don't you understand his feelings?"
Ren Xiaoyao was speechless. Everything Meng Ruyan said was true, but the tone and context were extremely ambiguous. Anyone who heard it would misunderstand, let alone these naive young girls.
Meng Ruyan tried to put on a stern face, but because her trick was about to succeed, she couldn't help but laugh uncontrollably, panting and scolding, "Alright, I'm leaving too. Let's talk about it when we get back." She glared at Ren Xiaoyao and turned to leave.
Now that things had come to this, even if Ren Xiaoyao had ten times the courage, he wouldn't dare not go and explain. Moreover, Meng Ruyan was incredibly fast; Ren Xiaoyao didn't even have a chance to apologize to the four women before disappearing into the crowd with her.
Shui Furong's eyes shone with a mixture of self-pity and loss; Nangong Fengzi closed her beautiful eyes, her long eyelashes trembling slightly, a bitter expression appearing on her lips; Lin Yuxiu burst into tears, covering her face and sobbing; even the usually strong Nangong Fengyi's eyes reddened slightly.
Seeing this, the crowd knew that following the crowd and stirring up trouble had caused a major disaster. Not only would Ren Xiaoyao be furious, but the families and relatives of the four women would certainly not forgive them. Terrified, they scattered in a flash, disappearing completely.
After
traversing several hills, Ren Xiaoyao finally caught up with Meng Ruyan and said, "Senior Sister, you've really put me in a terrible situation."
Meng Ruyan said coquettishly, "Hehe, now you know how powerful I am."
Ren Xiaoyao forced a dry smile and sighed, "Sigh, I admire you. You even came up with such a method."
Meng Ruyan's beautiful and refined face revealed a meaningful smile as she pressed him, "How long have you known them? How did you meet them? And... in short, you have to tell me everything that has happened to you since you left Coconut Island."
Ren Xiaoyao waved his hands and said, "Senior Sister, please forgive me. I... I'll admit my mistake, okay?"
Meng Ruyan hardened her pretty face, took half a step forward, and shouted, "Are you itching for a beating? You want to be beaten, don't you..."
Perhaps it was a habit he had developed since childhood, but Ren Xiaoyao was terrified whenever Meng Ruyan was angry, so he had no choice but to recount everything that had happened in the past six months.
Before coming to Shaolin, Meng Ruyan had heard many rumors about the dashing rogue, so she wasn't particularly interested in his adventures. Instead, she was more concerned with how her junior brother had "tricked" four beautiful young women into coming back.
Ren Xiaoyao, though thick-skinned, wasn't so shameless as to openly discuss matters of love in front of Meng Ruyan. He talked about trivial things, refusing to reveal a single detail about his secrets to winning hearts.
Meng Ruyan listened intently, interrupting him at crucial moments to press for answers. But no matter her threats, inducements, or subtle questioning, Ren Xiaoyao remained tight-lipped. The insatiable curiosity of Meng Ruyan grew, and after her attempts to extract information were repeatedly foiled, she resorted to physical violence.
When Ren Xiaoyao first left Coconut Island, his martial arts skills were roughly equal to Meng Ruyan's. Now, not only has he accumulated rich practical experience, but he has also received guidance from three masters: Dugu Yu, Yi Tianhan, and Nangong Bubai. After just a few rounds, Meng Ruyan knew that the days of "torturing" her junior brother were over.
"I didn't realize your cultivation had improved so much." Meng Ruyan stepped back slightly, her clear and bright gaze seemingly able to see into Ren Xiaoyao's heart as she scrutinized him for a long time. She chuckled and said, "Perhaps in a few more years you will surpass your master, and even your father will be no match for you."
"Hehe, Senior Sister, you flatter me." Ren Xiaoyao seized the opportunity to change the subject. "The Asura Sect and the Absolute Killer Sect have made a comeback, and many people are hoping that Master will return to the martial world. When we have time, let's go back to Coconut Island and tell him in detail about the situation of the Central Plains martial arts world."
Meng Ruyan shrugged her fragrant shoulders and whispered in Ren Xiaoyao's ear, "Let me tell you a secret, Master's Nine Revolutions Returning to Origin Force is almost at the eighth level. At that time, even Ghost Netherworld God Lord might not be able to withstand it." Meng Fei wanted to avenge Ren Qiaocui and Mei Ruoxue, and spent more than ten years painstakingly researching and developing a peerless divine skill. Before Ren Xiaoyao left the island, he still had many bottlenecks that he could not break through. It is likely that he has recently received guidance from the Four Saints of Qin, Qi, Shu, Hua and is about to complete his great work.
Ren Xiaoyao was overjoyed at the question, but then he remembered that he had been so focused on pursuing his senior sister that Fengzi and Xiuxiu would definitely be unhappy. His carefully crafted performance last night would be ruined, and he might even have trouble explaining it to Fengyi. His expression immediately darkened.

(Volume 16, Chapter 1: A Double

Win) Meng Ruyan made a playful expression as if exclaiming "Oh my god!" and feigned surprise, saying, "You're not worried about those four girls, are you?"
Ren Xiaoyao said irritably, "Who else could I worry about besides them? You've been fooling around for no reason, and now look what's happened! I've ruined everything, and all my efforts have been in vain."
Meng Ruyan giggled, "Anyway, they're my future sister-in-law, so it's normal to joke around sometimes."
Ren Xiaoyao felt a headache coming on and said with a wry smile, "Sigh... after all this, I'm afraid they won't talk to me anymore."
Meng Ruyan frowned, saying incredulously, "That doesn't make sense, does it? I see these girls..." "They all care about you, so it's just a matter of putting in a little more effort."
Ren Xiaoyao said with a sullen face and a bitter smile
, "It's no use. They started arguing as soon as they met yesterday, and besides... Senior Sister, why don't you help me think of a way to get through this crisis?" Meng Ruyan's beautiful face held a hint of mockery as she said in a coquettish voice, "Oh, I don't deserve it. How could I be as clever as a dashing and charming thief?"
Ren Xiaoyao said with a forced smile, "Senior Sister, you're a girl too, you must understand their feelings. Please help me, please help me, I'm begging you."
Seeing him staring at her like a dumbfounded bird, Meng Ruyan smiled faintly and said, "You really want me to help you come up with a solution?"
Ren Xiaoyao nodded eagerly.
Meng Ruyan pondered for a moment, her beautiful eyes gleaming with wisdom, and said softly, "Actually, the simplest way is to take them down one by one and coax them back one by one. However, this method is not only slow to take effect, but also requires a lot of talking, which is not a wise move. So we have to..." He deliberately stopped halfway through his sentence.
Ren Xiaoyao said anxiously, "Senior Sister, stop being so mysterious!"
Meng Ruyan smiled sweetly and said, "I'll help you, of course, but not for free. Let's agree on how you'll thank me after things are settled."
Ren Xiaoyao spread his hands and said casually, "At worst, I'll find you a suitable husband, guaranteed to be like Master and Mistress..."
"Who...who wants you..." Meng Ruyan blushed and glared at him reproachfully, saying shyly, "In short, you're not allowed to interfere in my affairs."
"Alright, then consider it a favor I owe you." Ren Xiaoyao urged impatiently. "
Hmm, that's more like it." Meng Ruyan raised her beautiful face and said confidently, "As long as you do as I say, not only can you persuade all four of them to come back, but you can also guarantee that from now on these girls will be as close as sisters and get along harmoniously."
Ren Xiaoyao's eyes gleamed, and he said in a deep voice, "Senior Sister, do you really have a brilliant plan that kills two birds with one stone?" Meng
Ruyan stepped forward, agreeing with him for a while. Ren Xiaoyao's worried face immediately lit up with a look of immense joy, like a drowning person suddenly spotting a piece of driftwood.
Ren Xiaoyao's expression was serious, and he frowned, saying, "The problem is..."
Meng Ruyan interrupted with a charming laugh, "How do I get them to come out? Do I need to teach you?"
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
"Sister, come quick! Brother Xiaoyao sent someone with a short note!" Nangong Fengzi ran excitedly into the room, cheering like a little girl.
Nangong Fengyi's beautiful eyes shone, and she said softly, "Sister, didn't you say you'd never talk to him again?"
Nangong Fengzi revealed a sly smile, saying sweetly, "Oh, that was just something I said in anger."
Nangong Fengyi had expected this answer, and said gently and happily, "Open it and see. I also want to know Xiaoyao's true feelings." "
Nangong Fengzi smiled faintly, "Sister, actually you care about Brother Xiaoyao more than I do, don't you?"
Nangong Fengyi's cheeks flushed instantly, and she glared at him with a slightly embarrassed expression, spitting lightly, "You little rascal, what exactly is written on it?"
Nangong Fengzi expressed her joy without reservation, happily saying, "Brother Xiaoyao asked us to meet him tonight at 7 PM in the small woods behind the mountain."
Nangong Fengyi's ethereal and beautiful face showed a rare look of infatuation, and she murmured to herself as if in a dream, "He... he finally explained it to us."
Nangong Fengzi asked happily, "Sister, shall we go tonight?"
Nangong Fengyi smiled sweetly, like a blooming flower, and said softly, "If I said no, would you agree?"
Nangong Fengzi looked extremely embarrassed, and stomped her little foot lightly, saying, "Sister, you're so naughty."
"That damned big brother, he's been seeing other girls behind my back." Lin Yuxiu sat on the incense couch, lost in thought, muttering, "This time I will never forgive you!"
"Really?" Lin Feifan pushed open the door and entered, standing behind his daughter with a smile.
"Father, why are you here?" Lin Yuxiu turned around in surprise.
"Young Master Ren asked me to deliver a letter to you." Lin Feifan said, turning to leave.
"Father, where are you going?" Lin Yuxiu asked anxiously.
"Since you won't forgive Young Master Ren, why bother reading his letter?" Lin Feifan said calmly.
Lin Yuxiu's pretty face flushed slightly, and she pouted petulantly, muttering, "Hmph, I... I won't read it then." But in her heart, she was already planning to ask her mother to bring the letter back for her later.
How could Lin Feifan not know what his daughter was thinking? He deliberately teased her, "In that case, Father will tear up the letter for you, so you won't be annoyed by it later." "
No—" Lin Yuxiu finally couldn't hold back any longer, snatched the envelope, and clutched it tightly in her hand.
"Hahaha, I knew you couldn't bear to part with Young Hero Ren." Lin Feifan laughed heartily.
"Father, stop teasing Xiuxiu." Lin Yuxiu lowered her head shyly.
"At three-quarters past the hour of You (5:45 PM), Alliance Leader Liu has invited the five major sword sects to a banquet. Your maternal grandfather wants you to go with him, so please remember that." Lin Feifan gave a few instructions and turned to leave.
He hadn't gone two steps when Lin Yuxiu's joyful voice came from behind him: "Father, my eldest brother asked me to meet him at the small woods behind the mountain at Xu (7:00 PM). Please cancel my banquet invitation."
"This child..." Lin Feifan chuckled.

Volume Sixteen: Brotherly Love Across a Hundred Years Chapter Two: A Midnight Rendezvous

"Bang!" Shui Furong kicked open the door and slammed her hand hard on the edge of the table.
"Crack—" The fine square table instantly shattered into pieces.
"You idiot, you stupid fool, I'm not done with you today!" Shui Furong muttered, still seething with anger.
"Whoosh—" A sound of air being cut rang out, and a burst of golden light suddenly shot through the window.
Shui Furong reacted swiftly, her sleeve fluttering as she stopped it. Upon closer inspection, she saw it was an exquisitely crafted gold hairpin.
Shui Furong was greatly surprised. She pushed open the door and looked around, but there wasn't a soul in sight.
"It's that idiot!" Shui Furong immediately realized. Who else but Ren Xiaoyao possessed such a miraculous ability to appear and disappear without a trace?
Suddenly, a note at the end of the hairpin caught Shui Furong's eye: "Furong, this hairpin is for you, as an apology. The woods behind the mountain are haunted tonight at 7 PM, so don't wander off."
"Hmph, you won't let me, but I'll go anyway." Shui Furong was delighted and casually inserted the hairpin into her hair.
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
7 PM approached, and dusk quietly descended.
A wisp of cloud hung in the night sky, veiling the half-moon like a light gauze.
Geese returned to their nests, birds flew back to their forests, and countless stars twinkled like jewels set in velvet.
The sun's warmth was too intense and unrestrained, and the stars' shimmering light too lonely and cold; only the gentle, tranquil moonlight could soothe his soul.
The moonlight, like water, permeated the entire earth, completely enveloping the forest in a sacred atmosphere. Ren Xiaoyao's senses began to blur, and he involuntarily entered a dreamlike, hazy state.
Women, especially seventeen or eighteen-year-old women, are often the most unreliable in terms of punctuality, but many such rules were invalid for Ren Xiaoyao. As
soon as the bell of Shaolin Temple rang at the hour of Xu (7-9 PM), the four women appeared before Ren Xiaoyao simultaneously, as if they had arranged it in advance.
"Huh, why are they all here too?" The four women looked at each other in surprise.
Ren Xiaoyao remained gazing at the starry sky, seemingly oblivious to their arrival.
"Big brother..." Lin Yuxiu's call had barely left her lips when she was met with hostile glares from the three girls, forcing her to swallow her words.
Ren Xiaoyao, with his keen hearing, immediately snapped out of his reverie, but still pretended to be oblivious to everything.
This tactic was called using stillness to control movement. He knew that if he answered, he would completely lose the initiative amidst the four girls' incessant questioning, so he cleverly used their mutual "hatred" and their unwillingness to allow anyone else to speak to them first. He created a silent atmosphere, deliberately delaying the time and gradually wearing down their resentment.
Nangong Fengyi, Nangong Fengzi, Shui Furong, and Lin Yuxiu were all completely confused, but under each other's watchful eyes, they couldn't utter a single word, and they didn't give Ren Xiaoyao a chance to explain.
At first, the four girls felt anger and sorrow, determined to confront Ren Xiaoyao and demand an explanation. Soon, their attitude shifted; they realized Ren Xiaoyao had been genuinely good to them, and there was no need for complaint or blame. Their attention quickly turned to their "rivals," thinking, "It's not just me; they've all completely pinned their girlish feelings on Xiaoyao." Was all this arguing really necessary?
Just as the four girls were hesitating, Ren Xiaoyao finally spoke: "Fengyi, Fengzi, Furong, Xiuxiu, you're here!"
"Yes," the four girls replied in unison, then simultaneously stopped talking.
It turned out that after much deliberation, they had already decided to give the opportunity to ask the first question to someone else.
Ren Xiaoyao chuckled, "Why are you all so silent? I was just about to explain."
The four women said in unison, "Okay, then..."
Ren Xiaoyao was surprised, "You all planned this? You all speak in the same tone."
The four women were about to explain when Ren Xiaoyao interrupted, "That's more like it. You're all so harmonious, and I..."
Before he could finish, a strange laugh suddenly rang out from not far away: "Good! What a dashing rogue! The moon rises above the willow branches, a rendezvous after dusk, and you've ruined the centuries-old reputation of Shaolin Temple."
Ren Xiaoyao's expression changed drastically, and
he said in a deep voice, "Who is it?" "You old man who wants to kill me!" With a long howl, a man in black flew over. Judging from his weapon and murderous aura, he was clearly there to fight Ren Xiaoyao to the death.
Nangong Fengzi, Shui Furong, and Lin Yuxiu all laughed so hard they were shaking and bending over. Even the usually dignified and elegant Nangong Fengyi couldn't help but smile.
Anyone who dares to speak so arrogantly alone with a single sword is either brain-dead or has a death wish.
Ren Xiaoyao whirled around, his gaze sweeping over the four women before finally settling on the man in black. He coldly said, "Do you know that each of them comes from a family with profound martial arts traditions and is highly skilled? I wouldn't even need to lift a finger to take you down." The man in black
laughed loudly, "Our organization never does anything we're not confident about."
Ren Xiaoyao was shocked and exclaimed, "Organization? You... you're one of the Assassins!"
"Clever!" Four assassins in black simultaneously sprang out from the east, south, west, and north, surrounding Ren Xiaoyao.
"Hahaha, we just dealt with the three young masters of the Tang Clan last night, and today several beautiful young women have delivered themselves to our doorstep." The assassin carrying the pair of mandarin duck swords chuckled sinisterly.
"The leader ordered Ren Xiaoyao to capture her alive. As for her women... whoever gets them is theirs." The assassin leader raised his iron club and sneered.
"Big brother, what should we do?" Lin Yuxiu saw that the assassins all had piercing eyes and an imposing aura, knowing that their martial arts were not weak, and immediately became nervous.
"Miss Lin, don't be afraid." Nangong Fengzi said coquettishly, "Last night, our four great families defeated Juesha to a pulp, these people should not be difficult to deal with."
"Well said, five against five is not enough for me." Shui Furong said proudly, and then she assumed the starting position of the Heaven-Defying Palm, ready to fight at any time.

Volume Sixteen Brotherhood Across a Hundred Years Chapter Three Four Women's Battle

"Xiaoyao, be careful of a trap." Nangong Fengyi was extremely calm and warned in a low voice. Just as the other party said, Juesha's actions were always meticulous. Since they dared to make a move openly near Shaolin Temple, they must have made sufficient preparations. Although there was no Jueyue or Duohun among the assassins in front of them, Fenri, Zhuiming, and Shepo were likely among them, and there might even be another ambush in the forest.
Ren Xiaoyao nodded slightly and said in a deep voice, "You, Fengzi, Furong, and Xiuxiu go first. I'll hold off the assassins." As long as the four women left safely, with his superb lightness skill, escaping would not be difficult.
"No! If they stay, we'll stay too!" the four women said in unison, with Lin Yuxiu shouting the loudest. She knew that Ren Xiaoyao and Wei Sihan were close friends and that he would definitely try his best to avenge him. He would not leave until he had captured all five assassins in front of him tonight.
"Fool, don't worry, we'll take care of ourselves," Shui Furong scoffed. "A few petty thieves are nothing to be afraid of."
Ren Xiaoyao drew his Ice Soul Frost Sword with a "whoosh," held it horizontally in front of his chest, and said in a deep voice, "I don't doubt your martial arts skills, it's just... it's just that the enemy's coordination is too tight. If..."
Nangong Fengyi, being intelligent and quick-witted, understood Ren Xiaoyao's meaning and said softly, "Sisters, let's put aside our differences for now and fight with all our might, so that Xiaoyao won't worry about us."
"Yes!" With a formidable enemy at hand, the three women naturally had no objections.
"Fool, kill!" Shui Furong slightly parted her palms and flew out like a feather, rushing towards the assassin leader.
Lin Yuxiu unleashed the Meteor Thirteen Styles with all her might, her longsword moving with lightning speed, making it impossible to defend against.
The Nangong sisters attacked side by side, their Blazing Sky Sword and Snow Reflecting Red Dust Sword complementing each other, increasing their offensive power. Amidst the murderous aura, countless dazzling sword lights darted through, barely managing to engage the two assassins.
Ren Xiaoyao, determined to finish the battle quickly, saw that all four women had found their opponents. With a soft whistle, he unleashed the sword technique, "Spring Colors of Jinjiang Come to Heaven and Earth."
The black-clad assassin, with sharp eyes, calculated that his weapon was no match for the sharpness of the Ice Soul Frost Sword. He hastily retreated, the sword narrowly missing his chest.
Ren Xiaoyao's swordplay wasn't finished; he followed with "Green Mountains Hidden, Waters Far Away." The black-clad assassin retreated again, but was a fraction too slow. His clothes were torn by the sword energy, leaving two rips.
Ren Xiaoyao then unleashed the Lingxiao Sword Technique, unleashing a continuous barrage of sword strikes: "The Drumbeats of the Fifth Watch are Mourning," "Whose Jade Flute Plays in the Dark," "Clouds Think of Clothes, Flowers Think of Faces," the sound of sword winds cutting through the air filling the air.
In terms of both lightness skill and footwork, the black-clad assassin was only slightly inferior to Ren Xiaoyao. Although Ren Xiaoyao's attacks were fierce, each move merely flashed past him, failing to harm him in the slightest. Lin Yuxiu couldn't help but feel anxious; if all five assassins possessed such skill, the four women might not be able to protect themselves.
The black-clad assassin thrust out his sword, a gust of wind hitting her face, causing a slight sting. She thought, "This guy's skill is clearly much deeper than mine; a direct confrontation won't give me any chance." Therefore, she decided to rely on her nimble and agile footwork, combined with the "Returning Wind and Falling Goose Sword," to engage in a
hit-and-run battle against his treacherous external martial arts. The Nangong sisters were in perfect harmony, simultaneously covering each other's weaknesses, giving the black-clad assassin no opening. Countless halos and rings of light flew out, and within the ripples, the hot and cold internal energies merged, their power increasing dramatically.
The assassin leader's staff techniques were unpredictable and elusive. Even with Shui Furong's incredible palm strikes, relentlessly pressing forward with overwhelming momentum, she couldn't break through for a while. Several times, she was nearly struck in vital areas, and her situation was far from optimistic.
Shui Furong, impatient by nature and fearing to lose face in front of her three "love rivals," took a deep breath, leaped into the air, and with a graceful and beautiful figure, retreated slightly before advancing, her hands unleashing a barrage of palm strikes towards the assassin leader.
The assassin leader sneered, his iron staff flashing through the air, forming a dense, impenetrable defense.
Shui Furong was secretly delighted, thinking, "You don't use staff techniques to deflect the force, but instead insist on a head-on clash with me. This is exactly what I wanted.
" In an instant, hundreds of palm strikes converged into one—one of Shui Furong's most skillful moves, personally taught by Yi Tianhan, "Overwhelming Force."
"Boom! Boom!" After two resounding clashes of energy, the assassin leader was jolted as if electrocuted, staggering several steps backward.
Shui Furong sprang up again, unleashing a powerful strike with both palms, aiming straight for her opponent's vital abdomen from her superior position.
Fast, ruthless, accurate, and vicious—she had mastered the essence of the Heaven-Defying Divine Palm technique.
The assassin leader reacted unexpectedly, dropping his iron rod and changing his stance from retreat to advance. He crossed his arms in front of his chest, using his bare hands to block Shui Furong's unstoppable and powerful gust of wind.
Both attacked with all their might, holding nothing back.
Their palms clashed without a sound. Just as Shui Furong was about to intensify her internal energy, she suddenly felt a sense of weakness wash over her. As she cried out in alarm, the assassin leader whirled around her, pulling her sideways. Simultaneously, his internal energy invaded her from his palms, flowing through her arms to her chest, reaching her dantian. Her lower abdomen felt as if it were filled with ten bowls of boiling water, churning and surging, threatening to explode.
Shui Furong was terrified and hurriedly tried to pull back, but her opponent's palm possessed an extremely soft yet resilient adhesive force. Although she managed to pull back half a foot, she still couldn't escape his control.
The assassin leader laughed wildly, "The Heaven-Defying Palm is nothing more than this! Watch me take your life!"
Before he finished speaking, Lin Yuxiu rushed to her aid, calling out, "Miss Shui, I'm here to help you!"
This sword strike was steady and precise, simple yet powerful, without any fancy moves. It was a genuine move of the "Seven Absolute Swords of Hengshan." If Dugu Yu had used it, he could have instantly gained the upper hand and turned the tide of battle. Although Lin Yuxiu's skill was far inferior, it was still enough to force her opponent back.
Lin Yuxiu knelt down to help Shui Furong up, anxiously asking, "Miss Lin, are you alright?"
Lin Yuxiu's lips were tightly pressed together, and cold sweat beaded on her forehead. She managed to catch her breath and said, "I'm alright, it's just my chest... my chest feels like a stone is pressing on it, ah, be careful!" Her words revealed great panic.
The black-clad assassin, who had been fighting Lin Yuxiu, pursued her with lightning speed. His palms moved with effortless grace, tracing a semi-circle, the movements so perfect they seemed to follow the laws of nature, without a trace of artifice. Even in the midst of a life-or-death struggle, the action possessed a mystical quality. (

Chapter 4 of Volume 16, "Brotherly Bonds Across a Century," Caught off

guard, Lin Yuxiu nearly fell victim to his attack. Before she could catch her breath, the assassin leader struck again, leaving her scrambling and in a sorry state.
Ren Xiaoyao, concerned for his beloved's safety, was about to rush to her aid when a sudden gust of cold wind swept over him. The black-clad assassin, desperate to prevent him from returning to the two women, had launched a desperate sword attack. In an instant, a dazzling array of light and sword shadows appeared, not only impressive in its sheer force but also concealing a series of follow-up attacks, forcing Ren Xiaoyao to scramble.
The assassin leader and his companions, attacking from both sides, had already gained the upper hand. Just as Lin Yuxiu was about to collapse, a muffled sound of air being pierced suddenly rang in her ears.)
It turned out that Shui Furong's internal injuries weren't serious. After a little adjustment of her internal energy, she quickly recovered. Seeing Lin Yuxiu trapped in an attack to save her, in a very critical situation, she was moved and filled with fighting spirit. She rejoined the battle, dodging left and right with incredible speed and agility, avoiding the dense palm strikes of another assassin and attacking the assassin leader who was closer to Lin Yuxiu.
The assassin leader was about to succeed when he was completely surprised that Shui Furong had risked her life to stop him. He was secretly astonished: "She is indeed Yi Tianhan's successor. Even after being injured by my internal energy, her recovery speed is much faster than ordinary people." He immediately slipped his left hand into his sleeve and used a combination of sweeping and flicking motions to deflect all of his relentless attacks. With Shui Furong's help, Lin Yuxiu seized the opportunity. Her longsword shone brightly as she thrust it diagonally at her enemy.
The assassin leader suddenly felt a silver light rushing towards him, with the force of thunder and lightning, and the momentum of towering waves. His initial bravado vanished, and he was unsure whether to advance or retreat.
The seemingly impenetrable alliance revealed a fatal flaw in his brief moment of mental distraction.
Shui Furong's left palm spun several times, channeling all her power into her right palm, striking directly at her opponent's chest. Initially swift as lightning, it suddenly slowed midway, creating a strange, unpredictable, and effortless effect. While
all thirty-six styles of the Heaven-Defying Divine Palm were renowned for their powerful and fierce attacks, this move, "Lonely Mountain Reflecting the Moon," was unpredictable and elusive, forming a stark contrast to Lin Yuxiu's sharp and unpredictable swordsmanship.
Before the assassin leader could dodge, Shui Furong, under Lin Yuxiu's cover, had already launched her attack.
Strangely enough, the two, who had never met until yesterday, coordinated their moves as if they were old friends of over a decade, their teamwork seamless. Palm winds and sword energy intertwined to form multiple barriers, firmly trapping the assassin leader within.
Seeing their combined attack, the assassin leader realized that even defending against them would be difficult, let alone injuring them. He prioritized self-preservation, his palm strikes splitting instantly, his inner energy surging like swirling clouds to protect his entire body. A series of clanging sounds rang out as he deflected their attacks.
The experienced black-clad assassins, recognizing that even with flank support, they couldn't defeat Shui Furong and Lin Yuxiu quickly, decided to have their leader hold off the attack while they aided their companions.
Nangong Fengzi's eyebrows furrowed, her breath coming in short gasps. She unleashed the "Blazing Sky-Piercing Sword," displaying its swift and powerful essence to the fullest, a flurry of sword shadows as she launched a relentless attack. Nangong Fengyi, her movements agile and fluid, like wisps of smoke, fluttering like a butterfly. Her "Snow Reflecting the Mortal World Sword" trembled incessantly, sometimes thrusting forward, sometimes retreating to defend. The black-clad assassin pressed forward several times, but each time she managed to thwart his advance. He was secretly astonished: in a one-on-one fight, the Nangong sisters would be no match for us. How could their combined swordsmanship increase their power several times over?
Seeing the situation turning in his favor, Ren Xiaoyao breathed a sigh of relief. He sidestepped to the left of the black-clad assassin, sweeping out a sword strike,
intending to finish him off first.
Just as he was about to strike, another assassin's rapidly approaching figure caught his eye out of the corner of his eye. Though not fast, his surprise attack was incredibly powerful. Three spiraling bursts of energy were unleashed in quick succession, striking almost simultaneously. Combined with the unexpected angle and direction, this made him even more formidable, his power unstoppable.
With Ren Xiaoyao's martial arts prowess, he was naturally unafraid of the opponent's fierce attacks. He could easily deflect them with either the Xiaoyao Wuji Palm or the Lingxiao Sword Technique. However, the black-clad assassin, who had been locked in combat with him for so long, wouldn't allow him any respite. With a series of swift, unpredictable attacks, faster than lightning, he unleashed powerful energy, determined to overwhelm Ren Xiaoyao.
In a flash, Ren Xiaoyao lightly tapped his feet, his movements incredibly rapid.
The black-clad assassin froze, his eyes widening in disbelief, and his momentum involuntarily slowed.
It turned out that Ren Xiaoyao's every feint was a targeted attack, as if he could anticipate the attack's moves, skillfully avoiding the sharpest point and diminishing its intimidating power. When Ren Xiaoyao was forced to change targets, he would preemptively step aside slightly. Despite being in second place, they still felt their opponent was like a slippery eel, impossible to control.
If not for their unwavering resolve, they would have lost all their edge and fighting spirit after just a few rounds.
Ren Xiaoyao had painstakingly and meticulously created a favorable situation, but a subsequent turn of events nearly ruined everything. The
Nangong sisters, pampered and skilled in martial arts, were far inferior in stamina. Just as their swords were thrusting towards the black-clad assassin's abdomen, Nangong Fengzi suddenly faltered, her attack slowing by a fraction of an inch.
A slight error, a huge mistake!
Their grand plan to attack the enemy was immediately ruined, and a major flaw was exposed.
The assassin in black launched a full-scale counterattack, his twin swords crisscrossing, following strange attack routes, curving into two arcs as they thrust towards Nangong Fengzi. His companion also abandoned his defense, feinting a blow to the ground with his palm to propel himself into the air, his other hand transforming into a finger, thrusting out with unpredictable and varied moves, seemingly capable of attacking any part of Nangong Fengzi's body.
Nangong Fengzi was drenched in sweat, her pretty face flushed and paled in turns.
She could only create a flurry of sword flashes to protect her vitals, seeking neither merit nor demerit. Without her elder sister's protection, Nangong Fengzi could only grit her teeth and face the relentless onslaught alone. What surprised her most was that many times the assassin's attacks seemed to land in empty space, yet she herself seemed to willingly offer herself up to be interrupted.
"Ah!" Nangong Fengzi suddenly felt her breath catch in her throat. The black-clad assassin had struck her squarely on the back of the sword, followed by a palm strike that sent her sprawling to the ground. Nangong Fengzi struggled to her feet, but her legs felt numb and weak, and she immediately collapsed back down.
Seeing her fall, Nangong Fengyi was terrified. His moves were riddled with flaws, and he knew he wouldn't be able to hold on much longer.

(Volume Sixteen: Brotherly Love Across a Hundred Years, Chapter Five: A Pale Face)

Lin Yuxiu and Shui Furong unleashed their swords and palm strikes simultaneously, forcing the assassin leader to retreat repeatedly. However, they knew full well that a master like him, with his unwavering will and profound inner energy, would be no easy task to kill, even without interference. The Nangong sisters, facing imminent danger, instinctively showed mutual care, each feinting an attack before abandoning their opponent and turning back to fight.
The black-clad assassin, in the heat of battle, suddenly felt a blockage in his chest. Shui Furong's palm strike, before the force even reached him, had already created a powerful, shattering force, breaking through his central attack and forcing his sword to veer off course, rendering him unable to attack Nangong Fengzi.
Another assassin, quick-witted, saw Lin Yuxiu's sword transform into points of light, sweeping in with overwhelming force. He swiftly gathered his inner energy, his right hand clenching into a fist, and thrust it towards Lin Yuxiu's chest.
Lin Yuxiu let out a sharp cry, leaping into the air with lightning speed. Her sword flashed, expanding its original form, only changing the angle of attack to strike the black-clad assassin from above. Her movements were fluid and graceful, showing no sign of improvisation, as if she had planned it all along.
The assassin leader caught up in time, his left palm feigning a move in front of his chest, while his right palm thrust out with concentrated force, producing a crisp, crackling sound. Then, the sound deepened, and the attack came from the side like a raging storm.
Shui Furong hadn't expected him to arrive so quickly. In her haste, she only had time to dedicate 60% of her strength to meet the assassin leader's palm strike, and immediately suffered a great loss. She felt her blood churning in her chest, her arms aching unbearably, and her bones feeling like they were falling apart. It was lucky she didn't fall, let alone continue her attack.
The assassin leader laughed heartily, suddenly shifting to Shui Furong's left side, separating her from the three women into two completely independent entities, and seemingly casually unleashing several palm strikes. Shui Furong was both outmatched in skill and completely captivated by her opponent. While the attacks themselves seemed harmless, the assassin leader's precise footwork and movements made them a serious threat.
Shui Furong struggled to regain her composure and sidestepped, but suddenly felt a sharp pain in her back. Caught off guard, she was struck by another assassin's powerful punch and was thrown backward uncontrollably.
"Watch out!" Nangong Fengzi, enduring the pain in her calves, cried out and rushed forward to shield her from the assassin leader's thunderous attack.
"Miss Nangong, thank you." Seeing Nangong Fengzi's pale face and disheveled hair, Shui Furong knew she was seriously injured and was truly grateful.
"No, Sister Shui, I should be thanking you," Nangong Fengzi said breathlessly. As they spoke, the assassins seized any openings and launched a fierce attack, putting the two of them in grave danger, on the verge of death.
"Everyone, back to back, defend one side. " "Nangong Fengyi quickly came up with a solution.
"Yes, let's work together to fight the enemy." "Nangong Fengzi, Shui Furong, and Lin Yuxiu moved towards the center without hesitation, their initial rivalry and sworn hatred long forgotten.
With guards on their left and right sides and behind them, the four women's combined efforts were highly effective, no longer fearing the simultaneous attacks from multiple directions by the black-clad assassins—a stark contrast to their previous disarray.
Ren Xiaoyao was juggling two opponents simultaneously, fighting two black-clad assassins while also constantly monitoring the safety of the four women. Maintaining peak energy and spirit for an extended period inevitably led to some exhaustion.
This was a situation he had never faced before since his debut!
The moonlight was completely obscured by thick clouds, the sky darkened, and a cold wind swept through, amplifying the ferocity of the battle.
The black-clad assassin's longsword transformed into a white light, suddenly shooting into the sky, aiming straight for Ren Xiaoyao's throat.
Ren Xiaoyao was in mid-air..." Suddenly halting his charge, he shifted to a sideways movement, clearing a path to his throat. The Ice Soul Frost Sword precisely met the opponent's sword spine, unleashing a torrent of internal energy.
The black-clad assassin shuddered violently. Although Ren Xiaoyao's attack only struck his weapon, the force of the sword's impact pierced his meridians, causing him instantaneous pain, as if a thousand-pound iron spike had been thrust into his chest. He nearly vomited blood. However, he was also incredibly skilled; using the momentum, he leaped backward, wielding his sword with lightning speed, adopting a defensive stance to prevent Ren Xiaoyao from pressing his advantage.
Ren Xiaoyao, a cautious man, should have proceeded cautiously and cautiously in this unfavorable situation of being surrounded. However, in order to quickly withdraw and reinforce his own troops, even knowing that a single strike might not be enough, he still wielded the Ice Soul Frost Sword, silently slashing towards the black-clad assassin's ribs.
Seeing Ren Xiaoyao attacking him recklessly, the black-clad assassin assumed he had a trump card up his sleeve and was terrified. He hurled his sword at Ren Xiaoyao in return. He lunged at Ren Xiaoyao's face, trying to hold him back for a moment, while simultaneously retreating rapidly into the forest.
A lucky break, a golden opportunity!
Ren Xiaoyao wasn't about to let it slip away easily. He used all his strength to close the distance, his Ice Soul Frost Sword transforming from silent to a whooshing sound, then into a sky full of trembling blue light.
This was the culmination of his entire power, possessing an astonishing power capable of piercing the heavens and earth. The black-clad
assassin only then realized that Ren Xiaoyao's previous sword strike was a feint; his true killing move was right before him!
Like a howling, raging wind, like a surging, turbulent wave, the black-clad assassin felt trapped in an invisible net, filled with a sense of helplessness and despair.
No one is perfect, even the renowned rogue thief of the Nine Cities has flaws.
Excessive pride and overconfidence were a lifelong nightmare for Ren Xiaoyao.
He believed he was absolutely certain of killing the black-clad assassin. The assassin, believing he could easily evade the other assassin's pursuit with his "Flying Immortal Transformation" technique, was caught off guard
. Before Ren Xiaoyao could even hit his target, the other assassin's iron palm struck his Xintai acupoint on the back.
Ren Xiaoyao, despite racking his brains, couldn't have predicted that his seemingly foolproof attack would become his biggest blunder. In a
moment of quick thinking, Ren Xiaoyao retreated diagonally. As his toes touched the ground, he circulated his inner energy, neutralizing the opponent's terrifying palm strike, but inevitably crashed into a large tree, inflicting several cuts and bleeding profusely onto his clothes. The
black-clad assassins, sword and palm, attacked simultaneously, aiming for Ren Xiaoyao's throat and abdomen, giving him no chance to breathe.
Ren Xiaoyao gritted his teeth and parried, his hands splitting open at the tiger's mouth, spitting out blood, and collapsing to the ground after falling several feet.

(Volume Sixteen: Brotherhood for a Hundred Years, Chapter Six: So That's

How It Is!) "Nangong Fengyi was terrified and rushed over as fast as she could. Nangong Fengzi, Shui Furong, and Lin Yuxiu followed closely behind. Seeing them pale and barely breathing, they were horrified and at a loss for what to do. Lin Yuxiu tightly grasped Ren Xiaoyao's hands, weeping uncontrollably.
"Hahaha, even the mighty 'Romantic Thief' has met his end!" The assassin leader laughed as he stepped forward.
"Hentian wants me, let them go!" Ren Xiaoyao struggled to his feet, supporting himself with one hand, and hissed.
"No, even if we die, we'll die with you!" the four women cried out in unison.
The assassin leader chuckled sinisterly, "Hmph, I told you before, after this is done, I'll reward these little girls to..."
He trailed off as a series of rhythmic footsteps approached from afar.
The assassins' faces changed drastically, and they cried out in panic, "Brother, it's Shaolin monks on night patrol! What do we do?"
The assassin leader thought for a moment, then decisively ordered, "Kill them all!" "
Go! Quickly!" Ren Xiaoyao leaped into the air, using his last remaining strength to strike the assassin leader with his sword.
The four women attacked simultaneously, but instead of fleeing as Ren Xiaoyao had instructed, they joined him in the assault, clearly prepared to die for their cause.
However, all five were exhausted. In the blink of an eye, Nangong Fengyi, Nangong Fengzi, and Lin Yuxiu's swords flew from their hands, and Shui Furong was also struck by a palm strike, her cherry lips turning pale as she swayed precariously.
Ren Xiaoyao was in even worse shape, suffering three consecutive blows to the chest and abdomen from the assassin leader, and was thrown back like a kite with a broken string, unable to stand up again.
"You brat, prepare to die!" With a fierce shout, the assassins pounced on Ren Xiaoyao.
"Kill me first!" The four women, seemingly summoning strength from nowhere, leaped to Ren Xiaoyao's east, south, west, and north, using their delicate bodies to shield him from the assassins' fierce and ruthless attacks.
"Good, truly devoted to Xiaoyao." The assassins simultaneously withdrew their attacks, one of them removing his mask and smiling happily.
"You... how..." The four women were shocked. This assassin was none other than Meng Ruyan, whom they considered Ren Xiaoyao's "first wife." "
Brother Ren, these four ladies risked their lives to save you, you can't let them down." The assassins revealed their true faces one after another, Xiong Xiaotian, Xiao Xingchen, and Ye Zhi Qiu were among them, but the one who hadn't shown his face gave Meng Ruyan a wink and immediately turned and left.
"Xiao Xingchen, what exactly do you mean?" Shui Furong questioned loudly.
"Miss Meng said she wanted to test your true feelings for Brother Ren, so she asked me for help," Xiao Xingchen answered truthfully.
"True feelings? What does our feelings have to do with him?" Lin Yuxiu said angrily.
"Hehe, marriage is a matter of parental arrangement. Xiaoyao's parents died early, so his master, my father, naturally decides what to do with his wife and concubines. If you want to stay by his side for life, how can you not get past me first?" Meng Ruyan said coquettishly. "If all the girls Xiaoyao likes are hypocritical and heartless, Father will definitely scold me."
"You... what exactly is your relationship with that idiot?" Nangong Fengzi scolded.
Meng Ruyan chuckled and said, "I raised him since he was a child, so I guess you could call him half an older sister and half an aunt."
The four women were slightly taken aback and stared at him intently, their beautiful eyes flashing with surprise.
"Hmph, you think I'd fight you for this silly boy?" Meng Ruyan shrugged slightly, seemingly nonchalant. "When he was little, all he did was cause me trouble and beg me to find him food. He's not much better now, always..."
"Senior Sister, why bring up the past?" Ren Xiaoyao interrupted, looking utterly embarrassed.
"Has Miss Meng gotten her answer?" Nangong Fengyi's beautiful eyes brightened, and she smiled.
"Sigh, today I've witnessed this brat's skill at seducing girls." Meng Ruyan sighed softly, impressed. "You're all so devoted to him, willing to risk your lives to save him. This profound and sincere affection truly impresses me." "
Fengyi, Fengzi, Furong, Xiuxiu, I... it was actually Senior Sister's idea to invite you here. Please don't take offense." Ren Xiaoyao smiled sincerely and said softly.
"Silly boy, do I look like the kind of person who's petty?" Shui Furong smiled sweetly.
"Speaking of which, we should thank Miss Meng," Nangong Fengyi said, a blush fading from her pretty face, her eyes still clear and bright. She sighed softly, "Without tonight's experience, how could my sister, Miss Shui, Miss Lin, and I have grasped the importance of mutual tolerance?"
"Yes, since we all deeply love Brother Xiaoyao, why fight over him?" Nangong Fengzi said with a smile, her beautiful eyes sparkling.
"Silly boy, from now on we won't quarrel anymore," Shui Furong said softly, a sweet smile that captivated everyone.
Ren Xiaoyao felt a surge of warmth and embraced each of the four women, gently comforting them.
Meng Ruyan chirped and joined in, quickly chatting and laughing with Nangong Fengyi and the others.
Taking advantage of the opportunity, Xiao Xingchen pulled Ren Xiaoyao aside and said solemnly, "Brother Ren, before we came to the back mountain, Chief Xiong made a very pertinent suggestion, which Brother Ye and I have both agreed to. We would like to ask what you think."
Xiong Xiaotian cupped his hands and said, "Today at the martial arts gathering, the four of us hit it off immediately and appreciate each other's company. Why don't we become sworn brothers so we can help each other in the future?"
Ren Xiaoyao was overjoyed and said, "I couldn't be happier."
The four of them exchanged greetings about their ages, with Xiong Xiaotian at the head, Xiao Xingchen next, and Ye Zhi Qiu and Ren Xiaoyao at the third and fourth places respectively. They then gathered some soil to burn as incense and bowed eight times to the sky, all of them extremely happy.
Seeing this, Meng Ruyan pulled the four women together to become sworn sisters as well. She naturally took the title of eldest sister, while Nangong Fengyi, Shui Furong, Nangong Fengzi, and Lin Yuxiu were ranked in order.
A short while later, Wang Chongyi, the Beggars' Sect's Elder of Transmission, rushed over and respectfully said to Xiong Xiaotian, "Sect Leader, Abbot Xiaoming sent his disciple to convey a message, inviting you to the Arhat Hall for a meeting... Ah, Young Hero Ren, Young Hero Xiao, and Chief Ye are also here. No wonder the messenger said he couldn't find them anywhere."
Xiao Xingchen asked in surprise, "What? Abbot Xiaoming even wants to see me?"
Wang Chongyi solemnly replied, "Yes, all four of the martial arts masters are among those invited."
Xiong Xiaotian, Xiao Xingchen, Ye Zhi Qiu, and Ren Xiaoyao were all startled. Abbot Xiaoming was still calling them for a meeting so late; something unexpected must have happened.

Volume Sixteen: A Century of Brotherly Love, Chapter Seven: On the Brink of Death.

Ren Xiaoyao saw Meng Ruyan chatting happily with the four women and gestured to Xiong Xiaotian, Xiao Xingchen, and Ye Zhiqi to leave quietly. The three of them thought that their fourth brother did not want to disturb them and complied. Little did they know that Ren Xiaoyao was worried about Nangong Fengzi, Shui Furong, and Lin Yuxiu, who were clamoring to go with him. If they found out, he would not be able to get away without a lot of talking.
Not long after they left, Ren Xiaoyao asked, "Brother, did the discussions that Alliance Leader Liu held with the leaders of various gangs earlier concern the Heavenly Extreme Sect?"
Xiong Xiaotian nodded and said, "Yes, the Heavenly Extreme Sect's sudden withdrawal from the alliance has inevitably caused panic among the heroes of the Central Plains. Alliance Leader Liu hopes that the attendees will quickly devise a contingency plan to prevent the Asura Sect and Absolute Kill from taking advantage of the situation."
Ren Xiaoyao's eyes lit up, and he asked, "I wonder what the outcome of the discussions was?"
Xiong Xiaotian said solemnly, "For the time being, there were no sound suggestions, so we had to adjourn the meeting."
Ye Zhi Qiu continued, "Alas, we discussed for about two hours, but it was all for naught—it's truly frustrating."
Xiao Xingchen suddenly realized, "No wonder Master has been frowning ever since he returned; it turns out he was troubled by this matter."
Ren Xiaoyao frankly said, "The leader of the martial arts alliance bears a heavy responsibility. Second Brother, you should also take on more of the affairs of your sect to share Alliance Leader Liu's burdens."
Xiao Xingchen nodded. First Brother said, "Fourth Brother is right. With a formidable enemy at hand, we cannot afford to relax at any moment, especially against powerful forces like the Beggars' Sect and the Thirteen Provinces Green Forest Alliance."
Xiong Xiaotian chuckled and patted Ren Xiaoyao on the shoulder, saying, "Second Brother, Third Brother, and I are all quite burdened. Compared to you, Fourth Brother, you have it easier."
Ye Zhi Qiu smiled leisurely, "Eldest Brother, you are mistaken. From Tingyuxuan and Hengshan Sect to countless ordinary people, who doesn't need Fourth Brother's concern? He should be the one who has to work harder than us."
Xiong Xiaotian slapped his thigh and exclaimed, "Yes, yes, how could I forget that?"
The four heroes were all fast-moving and soon arrived outside the Arhat Hall. It was worth noting that the security here was much tighter than before. Not only were the eighteen Arhats on duty in shifts, but their identities were also thoroughly checked. It took a long and tedious process before they were allowed to enter.
The atmosphere in the main hall was extremely solemn. Dugu Yu, Liu Yuxu, Xiaoming, Xiaochen, Nangong Bubai, and Lin Feifan all wore grave expressions, seemingly troubled by some thorny matter.
"Greetings, Senior Dugu, Alliance Leader Liu..." The four were about to bow when Dugu Yu said in a deep voice, "The situation is urgent, all formalities are unnecessary."
The four sat down, and Liu Yuxu said solemnly, "Young Hero Ren, Xingchen, after the martial arts tournament, Dugu and I..."
Xiao Xingchen said righteously, "Master, my elder brother and third brother have already informed us of the obstacles in our discussions. Just tell your disciple what to do directly. As disciples of the Taishan Sect, we are willing to go through fire and water without hesitation."
"Eldest brother, third brother?" Liu Yuxu was slightly surprised.
Xiong Xiaotian hurriedly said, "Alliance Leader Liu, the four of us hit it off immediately. Before coming to the Arhat Hall, we swore brotherhood, and from now on, we will share joys and sorrows, and live and die together!"
Lin Feifan said happily, "The sworn brotherhood of the four martial arts masters is a major event that will shake the martial arts world. When the news spreads, it will surely inspire people and deter evil forces."
Everyone nodded in agreement.
Liu Yuxu said solemnly, "After the meeting, Senior Dugu, Abbot Xiaoming, and I discussed it for a long time. We felt that the Dragon Sect Leader, who is known for his righteousness and concern for the country, would never suddenly withdraw from the alliance without warning."
Ren Xiaoyao frowned and asked, "What is the reason given in the withdrawal letter?"
Dugu Yu pondered and said, "It's the same as I expected. It says that the Emperor intends to launch a northern expedition and has no time to attend to matters in the martial world, but... Guangyi should have informed me before he launched his campaign against the Liao Dynasty..."
Ye Zhiqiu exclaimed in surprise, "Could it be that Senior Dugu suspects there is a trap?"
Nangong Bubai interjected, "Yes, if the court wants to launch a war, it will definitely purchase a large amount of grain, weapons, and warhorses. However, Tingyuxuan has not received any more orders recently. The so-called northern expedition is likely just a pretext."
Dugu Yu looked up at the roof beam and continued, "Even if Guangyi is willing to use the Tianji Sect as the main force to recover the Sixteen Prefectures of Yanyun, it is still..." The leader of the Dragon Order was ordered to withdraw from the alliance. "
Liu Yuxu said frankly: "Yes, eighteen years ago, the Tianji Sect came back from thousands of miles away to help, severely damaging the Shura Sect and killing the Shura Sect. The scene is still vivid in my mind. As long as they are still controlled by the Central Plains Martial Arts Alliance, even if they can't spare a single soldier by then, Guiming Shenjun and Hentian will not dare to take it lightly. "
Ren Xiaoyao thought for a while and then suddenly said: "If the reasons given by Master Long are purely fabricated, there are only two reasons. First, he deliberately relaxed the Shura Sect's vigilance to kill and be ready to strike back at any time; second, the emperor's purpose is not to regain the Yanyun Sixteenth Prefecture, but to completely destroy the Liao Dynasty. Therefore, the Tianji Sect must cut off distracting thoughts and attack with all its strength. "
Xiao Xingchen said doubtfully: "If that's the case, then why did you openly mention the withdrawal from the alliance at the martial arts conference? Isn't this obvious for the other party to notice in advance? "
Ren Xiaoyao murmured: "Could it be...could there be a third reason.
"Of course!" "Amidst the long laughter, Zhuge Wenjie gently shook his feather fan and walked into the hall.
Everyone knew he was resourceful and wise, so they quieted down to listen to his detailed explanation.
Zhuge Wenjie's eyes gleamed, and he spoke slowly, each word deliberate and confident: "Thirdly, a major upheaval has suddenly occurred within the Tianji Sect. They are barely able to take care of themselves, let alone have the resources to assist the Central Plains Martial Arts Alliance."
The crowd exchanged astonished glances, their expressions incredulous.
Liu Yuxu questioned, "The Tianji Sect is powerful. The Dragon Sect Leader's literary and martial arts are unparalleled in the world. The two Vice Sect Leaders, Qin and Zhang, and the Five Hall Masters are also formidable. With the strong support of the imperial court, who could possibly stir up trouble there?"
Zhuge Wenjie pondered, "I cannot know for sure. Perhaps it stems from the machinations of the Liao, Western Xia, and Tubo kingdoms, or perhaps from the assassination attempts of the Shura Sect and Juesha. Even the Maitreya Sect, the Tangut Society, and the Ghost Sorrow Prefecture might be involved."
Lin Feifan gasped, horrified, "So, in that case…?" "Isn't the Heavenly Pole Sect on the verge of collapse!"

Volume Sixteen, Chapter Eight: Step by Step

, Zhuge Wenjie slowly shook his head and said in a deep voice, "Even a centipede with a hundred legs doesn't fall down when dead, let alone the Heavenly Pole Sect with its 100,000 elite troops. I think..."
Liu Yuxu suddenly interrupted, "Could Mr. Zhuge's judgment be wrong?"
Zhuge Wenjie confidently replied, "Even if it's wrong, it won't be far off."
Liu Yuxu abruptly stood up and resolutely said, "Very well, I will immediately lead men to the Heavenly Pole Sect's headquarters in Xunfeng City to help Sect Leader Long quell the internal strife as soon as possible."
"Wait!" Zhuge Wenjie urged, "There's more to this than meets the eye; we mustn't act rashly."
Liu Yuxu's expression changed slightly. He returned to his seat and asked, "More than meets the eye? Could it be... could it be referring to Xing Guodong?"
Zhuge Wenjie smiled enigmatically, "Yes, even if Master Long is muddle-headed, he knows to respect Shaolin Temple and the Central Plains Martial Arts Alliance. Why would he send an arrogant Xing Guodong to deliver the letter of withdrawal from the alliance?"
Lin Feifan tentatively asked, "Could the letter of withdrawal be fake?"
Dugu Yu denied it, "Judging from the handwriting and seal, it is indeed Master Long's genuine handwriting."
Ren Xiaoyao's eyes flickered, and he said, "The problem lies with Xing Guodong. Mine is right, isn't it, Mr. Zhuge?"
Zhuge Wenjie nodded with a smile.
Xiong Xiaotian said in a deep voice, "Xing Guodong must have been instigated by someone to forcibly obtain the withdrawal letter, and then came to Shaolin to sow discord between the Tianji Sect and the heroes of the Central Plains."
Xiao Xingchen added, "Perhaps the real messenger was already secretly killed by him, and if the Dragon Master inquires, he can easily shift the blame to us."
Lin Feifan said with gritted teeth, "Killing two birds with one stone, how vicious is his intention!"
Zhuge Wenjie turned to Ren Xiaoyao and smiled, "What do you think of...?"
Ren Xiaoyao's deep and unfathomable eyes shone with wisdom, and he spoke first, "Xing Guodong was indeed personally sent by the Dragon Master."
Liu Yuxu asked in surprise, "The facts are right before our eyes, why is Young Hero Ren speaking up for Xing Guodong?"
Ren Xiaoyao smiled and said, "May I ask everyone, if it weren't for Xing Guodong's abnormal behavior at the meeting, would you and I have noticed the internal strife in the Tianji Sect?"
Liu Yuxu slowly shook his head.
Ren Xiaoyao continued, "Whether it's the Asura Sect, the Absolute Killing Sect, the Maitreya Sect, the Tangut Society, or the Ghost Sorrow Mansion, after disrupting the internal affairs of the Heavenly Extreme Sect, their first action would undoubtedly be to block the news to avoid arousing suspicion from the outside world. Who would be foolish enough to let a loose-tongued Xing Guodong come to the martial arts conference and spout nonsense?"
Lin Feifan suddenly realized, "So Xing Guodong was actually a pawn deliberately thrown out by the Dragon Sect Leader to hint at internal strife within the Heavenly Extreme Sect.
" Zhuge Wenjie decisively said, "That's right. On the surface, he's provoking Alliance Leader Liu, but in reality, he's telling us that we must send people to aid the Heavenly Extreme Sect as soon as possible."
Liu Yuxu's expression changed drastically, and he clapped his hands, saying, "Brilliant, truly brilliant! Even if Xing Guodong racked his brains, he would never have guessed that he was being used by the Sect Leader."
Xiaoming put his hands together and asked, "In Mr. Zhuge's opinion, how should we respond?"
Zhuge Wenjie solemnly said, “First, we can confirm two things. First, the internal strife within the Tianji Sect is quite large, and it requires external forces to quell. Second, things haven't reached an irreversible point, so we don't need to rush into action, but we must make thorough preparations.” Ren
Xiaoyao continued, “As the saying goes, ‘Know yourself and know your enemy
, and you will never be defeated.’ I believe the most urgent task is to find ways to learn more about the internal strife within the Tianji Sect, so as not to lose sight of the bigger picture in subsequent actions.” Liu Yuxu said seriously, “Young Master Ren is absolutely right. We must immediately select skilled and quick-witted experts to go to Xunfeng City and make contact with the Dragon Sect Leader as soon as possible.”
Lin Feifan frowned and said, “The Tianji Sect has many informants. If you and I leave our respective territories and appear in Xunfeng City at the same time, it will easily arouse their suspicion.”
“Since you seniors cannot make the trip, I will take your place. ” Ren Xiaoyao's handsome face revealed a confident smile as he casually remarked, "'The dashing rogue' is elusive and has no fixed abode. No one would suspect him if he occasionally visited the Heavenly Pole Sect's headquarters."
Liu Yuxu frankly stated, "Young Master Ren's lightness skill is unparalleled, but going alone might leave you vulnerable. Perhaps Xingchen could accompany you; it would be good to have someone to rely on if anything happens." Ye Zhiqiu interjected
, "Count me in too. There's a dispute between Hanyang Village and the Heavenly Pole Sect that still needs to be resolved."
Xiong Xiaotian said regretfully, "Unfortunately, I have no legitimate reason. If I leave Junshan without permission..."
Dugu Yu interrupted with a smile, saying, "The Four Heroes of the Martial World have sworn brotherhood. Ren Xiaoyao and Ye Zhiqi agreed to meet in Xunfeng City. Xiao Xingchen and Xiong Xiaotian rushed there immediately after hearing the news, which makes perfect sense."
Zhuge Wenjie nodded, saying, "As long as Chief Xiong and Young Hero Xiao arrive two days late, they won't arouse suspicion. As for Chief Ye and Young Hero Ren, they can enter the city openly."
Dugu Yu's expression turned solemn as he instructed, "The hope of saving the Tianji Sect rests in the hands of you Four Heroes of the Martial World. Be sure to be careful and proceed cautiously."
Liu Yuxu gestured for Xiao Xingchen to come closer and added, "If there is any major change, immediately inform your master. Remember, don't be reckless!"
"Get out of the way!" "Let us in!" "If you don't let me in, I'll take action!" A noisy commotion arose outside the door.
Ren Xiaoyao recognized the voices of Meng Ruyan, Shui Furong, and the others and rushed out.
Sure enough, he saw the five women locked in a stalemate with the Eighteen Arhats, seemingly trying to enter the Arhat Hall but being blocked.
Huihai, the leader of the Eighteen Arhats, bowed respectfully and said, "Esteemed benefactors, Senior Dugu and the others are discussing matters inside the hall. This humble monk has not received the abbot's order and cannot let anyone in."
"Why? My maternal grandfather is presiding over the meeting. Are you going to stop me too?" Lin Yuxiu said angrily.
"That's right, my father is inside too." Nangong Fengzi pouted and said spoiledly.
"Fourth sister, fifth sister, let's break in." Meng Ruyan, having been refused repeatedly, said angrily with her pink face puffed up.
"Senior sister, stop it." Ren Xiaoyao hurriedly rushed forward and pulled Meng Ruyan away.

Volume Sixteen: Brotherly Love A Hundred Years Ago Chapter Nine: The Blessing of Having Two Women

"Big brother!" "Silly boy!" "Brother Xiaoyao!" Lin Yuxiu, Shui Furong, and Nangong Fengzi rushed to Ren Xiaoyao's side, all pouting.
"Why are you all here?" Ren Xiaoyao asked, confused.
"Because we missed you." Lin Yuxiu said in a coquettish voice.
“Me too,” Nangong Fengzi said with a charming smile.
Ren Xiaoyao had no choice but to cast an inquiring glance at Nangong Fengyi.
“The sisters were chatting when they suddenly realized that you, Chief Xiong, Young Hero Xiao, and General Ye were all missing, so they rushed off to look for you.” A gentle smile appeared on Nangong Fengyi’s lips, as if she had known he would ask this question. She said softly, “Outside the Sixth Ancestor Hall, we met Elder Wang of the Beggar Clan. Eldest sister got him to tell you that Abbot Xiaoming invited you to the Arhat Hall. Third sister, fourth sister, and fifth sister insisted on coming, and I couldn’t refuse them, so I had to agree.”
Ren Xiaoyao was both amused and exasperated. It was one thing for Meng Ruyan to trick Wang Chongyi into revealing the truth, but making a scene outside the Arhat Hall was really going too far.
“Huihai, Huitong, let the ladies in,” Xiaoming’s solemn voice came from inside the hall.
The eighteen Arhats obeyed and immediately opened the passage.
The group entered one by one. Lin Yuxiu, her face full of reproach, approached Dugu Yu, ignoring the surprised looks from Liu Yuxu, Xiaoming, and the others. She took his right arm with her slender hand and shook it, saying indignantly, "Grandpa, you called my eldest brother without telling me! Now my older sisters and I are searching everywhere for him!"
Dugu Yu revealed a loving and tender fatherly expression, reaching out to pat her adorable cheek and asking with a smile, "Have you also formed a sworn brotherhood with someone like Young Hero Ren?"
Lin Yuxiu smiled brightly and happily replied, "Yes, I'm the fifth child; I have four older sisters."
Everyone was surprised. They had been fiercely competing before, but now they were as close as sisters. They wondered what methods Ren Xiaoyao had used, but the dashing thief certainly lived up to his reputation.
Dugu Yu, his face beaming with joy yet feigning reproach, said, "Xiuxiu, you're still acting like a child, always fooling around. Quickly pay your respects to the seniors."
Lin Yuxiu nestled beside Lin Feifan, her delicate beauty captivating. She first called out "Father," then greeted Liu Yuxu, Xiao Chen, and the others one by one. Finally, her gaze swept over Xiong Xiaotian, Xiao Xingchen, and the other two, and she said with a slight reproach, "Chief Xiong is so naughty! He left with Big Brother without a word, not even saying goodbye."
Everyone couldn't help but chuckle at her innocent expression, and the tense and serious atmosphere vanished.
Shui Furong looked at Ren Xiaoyao with a smile and said playfully, "Silly boy, what are you all discussing here?"
Ren Xiaoyao chuckled dryly, unsure whether to speak or not.
Zhuge Wenjie said tactfully, "The Central Plains Martial Arts Alliance has an urgent matter to attend to. Young Hero Ren, Chief Xiong, Young Hero Xiao, and Chief Ye have all agreed to lend a hand. Would you ladies consider going with him?"
"Yes, wherever Brother Xiaoyao goes, we'll go." Nangong Fengzi nodded first, and Lin Yuxiu and Shui Furong also expressed their agreement. Nangong Fengyi looked at Nangong Bubai somewhat reluctantly, but after receiving his approval, two blushes instantly rose on her cheeks, making her elegant demeanor appear even more beautiful and incomparably charming. Liu Yuxu's eyes flickered, and he asked thoughtfully, "Mr. Zhuge, could it be that you intend to..."
Zhuge Wenjie quickly interrupted him with a look, leaned closer, and lowered his voice, saying, "Bringing women along will avert suspicion."
Liu Yuxu frowned and said, "We still don't know which force is behind the internal strife within the Heavenly Pole Sect. The Four Beauties managed to escape the attack, but it's hard to say about these young ladies."
Zhuge Wenjie whispered in his ear, "Don't worry, Alliance Leader Liu, their martial arts skills are all solid; they're more than capable of protecting themselves. Besides, I don't expect them to find anything; I just want to use this to lure out two people."
Liu Yuxu couldn't contain his excitement and said, "Yi... Yi Tianhan, Meng Fei!"
Zhuge Wenjie's eyes flashed with a strange light, and... With an expectant look on her face, she said happily, "If Shui Furong and Meng Ruyan suffer setbacks, Yi Tianhan and Meng Fei will surely return to the martial world. With the help of these two great masters, the chances of victory for the Central Plains Martial Arts Alliance will increase even further."
Shui Furong pulled Meng Ruyan closer and said sweetly, "Big sister, why don't you come with us too?"
Meng Ruyan wanted to go, but she was too proud to admit it and said nonchalantly, "I don't have a lover. Am I going to go to Xunfeng City to starve? Or watch you two flirt with Xiaoyao all day?"
Lin Yuxiu giggled and said, "Big sister, don't worry. There are plenty of good men in the Tianji Sect. We sisters will definitely help you find a suitable husband."
Meng Ruyan's secret was exposed, and her pretty face immediately turned red. She ran out of the main hall in a coy manner.
Ren Xiaoyao took the opportunity to say goodbye. After agreeing with Ye Zhi Qiu on a departure time for the next morning, he led the four women away from the Luohan Hall.
Seeing Meng Ruyan disappear, Nangong Fengzi tugged at Lin Yuxiu and giggled, "Fifth Sister, look at you! You scared Eldest Sister half to death!"
Lin Yuxiu said with a charming smile, "It's not just me, Third Sister got involved too."
Shui Furong shrugged slightly, her pretty face revealing a charmingly naive expression that could bewitch any man, and said leisurely, "Does Fourth Sister think differently from us? Eldest Sister is beautiful and skilled in martial arts; she deserves a worthy and upright man."
Lin Yuxiu murmured thoughtfully, "It's a pity that Senior Brother Wei is already with Miss Tang. I was originally planning to introduce him to Eldest Sister."
Shui Furong patted Lin Yuxiu's forehead and pretended to be angry, "Fifth Sister, who told you to play matchmaker here?"
Lin Yuxiu said coquettishly, "Fine, you're bullying me! No way, Xiuxiu will fight back!" Saying this, she opened her arms and pounced on Shui Furong.
Soon, Nangong Fengzi joined their "melee," and the three girls playfully wrestled and tickled each other. For a moment, soft gasps and giggles, sweet voices and warbling voices echoed through the woods. The vast Shaolin Temple had become a playground for the sisters' coquettishness, completely abandoning the serene and solemn atmosphere of a sacred Buddhist site.
Ren Xiaoyao watched them, his heart filled with mixed emotions. To possess even one of these three stunningly beautiful girls would be an immense blessing, let alone to enjoy the blessing of having multiple beauties at once.
Suddenly, Nangong Fengyi's gentle and cheerful voice rang in his ear: "Xiaoyao, everything in the bamboo forest behind the mountain was arranged by yourself, wasn't it?" Ren Xiaoyao was shocked, but dared not show it,

forcing

a serious expression, "Those were all at Senior Sister's behest; I had no choice but to do them."
Nangong Fengyi glanced at him irritably, puffing out her cheeks, "Don't lie to me! Eldest Sister has only been in the Central Plains for a few days; how could she possibly invite Chief Xiong, Young Hero Xiao, or General Ye? If you hadn't personally invited them, would they have helped?"
Before Ren Xiaoyao could argue further, Nangong Fengyi's tone suddenly turned cold, slowly saying: "Your sisters have been so devoted to you, and you…you actually resorted to such methods." "She tossed her head, her brows furrowed with anger.
Seeing her change from her usual gentle and compliant nature, Ren Xiaoyao was taken aback and awkwardly said, "Fengyi, I... I was only doing this for your own good, that's why..."
Nangong Fengyi still wouldn't look at him, her arms crossed over her chest, standing angrily to the side, shouting loudly, "For our own good, for our own good, in the end, isn't it all for yourself?" After saying that, she tossed her long hair, turned around and left.
Ren Xiaoyao was shocked, cold sweat instantly breaking out on his brow, his heart skipped a beat: "Oh no! Fengyi must be angry that I didn't tell him beforehand."
Seeing Nangong Fengyi walk away without looking back, Ren Xiaoyao hurriedly chased after her, forcing a smile, "Fengyi, don't be angry, what was that just now..."
Nangong Fengyi suddenly stopped and turned around, angrily saying, "What was it? What else could it be?" "Amidst the sharp rebuke, Nangong Fengyi's shoulders trembled, her eyes filled with sorrow, tears welling up, almost bursting into tears.
Ren Xiaoyao had never seen Nangong Fengyi so angry, and was startled. Seeing her distressed expression, he felt a pang of heartache, his body turning ice-cold. For a moment, he was at a loss for words, standing there dumbfounded.
Then he saw Nangong Fengyi tremble slightly, wipe her eyes with her hand, and finally burst into tears, a glistening tear stain on her snow-white palm. Ren Xiaoyao was even more at a loss, wanting to step forward to comfort and explain, but he dared not touch her, afraid of angering her. He thought, "Fengyi thinks I deliberately hid things from her, so she's so heartbroken and angry. I... how should I explain?"
Nangong Fengyi sobbed, choking out, "You said you would be good to me for the rest of your life, but... but you... you did this! What do you take me for? What do you take Fengzi for?"
Ren Xiaoyao was filled with guilt and just wanted to explain quickly. He whispered, "Fengyi, don't get agitated. Just now..." Nangong
Fengyi stamped her foot and cried out, "Why can't I get agitated? I... I've long considered myself your wife, but... but I've been kept in the dark all this time. What is this? I, I..." As she spoke, tears streamed down her face. Suddenly, her legs gave way, and she sat down on the ground, hugging her knees and sobbing.
Seven or eight zhang away, Nangong Fengzi, Shui Furong, and Lin Yuxiu were still laughing and playing, as if they hadn't heard a thing.
Ren Xiaoyao sat down as well, feeling extremely frustrated. He thought to himself, "It's all my fault for being useless. I couldn't think of any other way. If I hadn't had no choice but to listen to my senior sister's advice, Fengyi wouldn't be so upset. But... I really didn't let her down, I really didn't!"
Seeing Nangong Fengyi's heartbroken tears, Ren Xiaoyao felt increasingly guilty. He lowered his head and said, "Fengyi, I was wrong. I... I don't think you'll listen to my explanation, but... but I don't know how to make you feel better..." He
paused, but Nangong Fengyi didn't respond, still sobbing. Feeling uneasy, he whispered, "What happened just now was indeed my fault. You can scold me however you want, please... please don't be angry anymore. I saw it all, and it really... really hurts."
Suddenly, Nangong Fengyi's crying paused, as if the sound was stuck in her throat, a slightly strange sound.
Wen Yuan, slightly surprised, looked up and said, "Fengyi?" "
He saw that Xiao Murong had her back to him, her shoulders trembling slightly, quite different from the trembling she had when she was crying earlier.
Ren Xiaoyao leaned to look at her side, and Nangong Fengyi's pretty face immediately turned slightly in the opposite direction, only a faint smile appearing at the corners of her mouth.
Ren Xiaoyao felt more and more that something was amiss, and reached out to put his arm around Nangong Fengyi's shoulder.
Nangong Fengyi quickly turned around, gently wrapped her arms around Ren Xiaoyao's neck, lightly patted the back of his head with her left hand, and said with a grin, "How about that, did I fool you? You got quite a fright, didn't you?" Although her face still bore traces of tears, her smile was radiant and charming.
Ren Xiaoyao stood there stunned, and said in astonishment, "Fengyi, you..."
Nangong Fengyi smiled sweetly, "What do you mean?"
Ren Xiaoyao was completely confused, and said speechlessly, "You...you're playing a trick on me?"
Nangong Fengyi blinked and said with a coquettish smile, "What do you think?"
Ren Xiaoyao's mind was a mess. He shook his head, looked at Xiao Murong, unsure whether to be angry or amused, and stammered, "You...you really aren't angry?" Nangong
Fengyi met his gaze, looking deep into his eyes, and smiled sweetly, "Of course! Do I look like the kind of person who's petty?" This kind of expression was rarely seen on her beautiful face, making her exceptionally charming.
Ren Xiaoyao was somewhat at a loss, and asked blankly, "So, all that crying just now was...all an act?"
Nangong Fengyi stared at him for a long time, then suddenly giggled, her breath coming in short, seductive gasps, and said, "Pretty convincing, right? Shall I cry again for you?"
This time, the roles were reversed, and Ren Xiaoyao was now greatly displeased, glaring at Nangong Fengyi, unsure of what to say.
Nangong Fengyi smiled playfully, "What, you're allowed to deceive me, but I can't even crack a little joke? Hey, are you angry?"
Ren Xiaoyao frowned and said, "Of course! How could I not be angry after you've made me so foolish? I... I thought you really misunderstood, and I was so worried..." Nangong
Fengyi couldn't resist showing her girlish shyness, lowering her head to avoid his burning gaze, and said with a slight reproach, "Hey, that's a bit too much. If I'm really angry, isn't it all your fault?"
Nangong Fengyi paused, and continued, "Back then, when you were 'seriously injured and vomiting blood,' Fengyi was terrified, wishing she had been the one struck, but who knew... Sigh, that's enough to annoy me. Tell me, now, should I be angry, or should you be angry?"

Volume Sixteen, Brotherly Love for a Hundred Years, Chapter Eleven, Love as Deep as the Sea. Ren

Xiaoyao pondered for a moment, then said, "Alright, even if I'm wrong, I won't be angry."
Nangong Fengyi smiled wearily: "Even if?"
Ren Xiaoyao had her weakness exposed, and sighed bitterly, "It is indeed my fault, please forgive me, okay?" "
Nangong Fengyi's beautiful eyes flashed with a deep, unfathomable light as she said, 'That's right, I apologize to you too.'
Ren Xiaoyao sighed softly, 'Fengyi, I hope you can understand my predicament and not hold a grudge.'
Nangong Fengyi smiled gently and said sweetly, 'Actually, I didn't mean to blame you at all, I just wanted to see how much you really care about me.'
Ren Xiaoyao leaned close to her and pretended to blow a breath into her mouth before saying, 'To achieve your goal, you hurt Qi and caused her so much fear. How do you think you should compensate me?' After speaking, he slowly reached out and stroked her face.
Nangong Fengyi's delicate body trembled, and she cried out softly, 'Xiaoyao! No…'
Ren Xiaoyao stroked her shy, captivating face, his fingertips gently brushing her rounded earlobe, and leaned closer, saying with deep affection, 'Spend time with me, it's a comfort…'
Nangong Fengyi retorted angrily, 'No, my sisters are still behind me. '"
Ren Xiaoyao lowered his voice and calmly smiled, "Really don't want it? "
Nangong Fengyi lowered her head slightly, blushing, and said, "Tonight... tonight is fine. Last night, my family and you were fooling around in the back mountains for a long time, and I still feel really guilty."
Ren Xiaoyao said in surprise, "It's only natural for men and women to be in love. What's there to feel guilty about?"
Nangong Fengyi blushed slightly, buried her pretty face in his chest, and said in a voice as soft as a mosquito's buzz, "Shaolin Temple is, after all, a sacred Buddhist site. If we... if we were to be intimate here... it would be a bit disrespectful to the gods."
Ren Xiaoyao said lightly, "That's true. Then let's do it next time."
Nangong Fengyi gave him a long, dark look, and said softly, "Not only me, but you're not allowed to go with my three younger sisters either." "
Ren Xiaoyao feigned surprise, "How could that be? They wouldn't even agree if I did."
Nangong Fengyi blushed and said softly, "After you leave Shaoshi Mountain, I'll spend more time with you, okay?"
Ren Xiaoyao smiled happily, "That's more like it, but you have to invite Fengzi too."
Nangong Fengyi blushed, glared at him reproachfully, and said shyly, "You! You're such a lewd and immoral scoundrel."
Ren Xiaoyao hugged Nangong Fengyi tightly and whispered in her ear, "Didn't you like that night at Hua'e Valley?"
Nangong Fengyi finally couldn't resist, her face flushed, and she pushed Ren Xiaoyao away abruptly, running away, glancing back at him with a tender and lingering look.
"Brother Xiaoyao, what happened to Sister?" Nangong Fengyi walked to Xiaoyao's side and asked softly.
"Hmm... Fengyi said she had some urgent matters to attend to, so she left first," Ren Xiaoyao replied casually.
"Second Sister is really something, leaving us behind to leave alone," Lin Yuxiu muttered, pouting her cherry-like lips.
"It's getting late, I'll take you all home," Ren Xiaoyao said with a carefree smile.
The three women, upon hearing this, all showed expectant expressions.
Although Ren Xiaoyao was also aroused, he had already promised Nangong Fengyi, so he had to harden his heart. He yawned and muttered to himself, "The martial arts tournament has been going on for two days, I'm really exhausted. If I don't go to sleep soon, I'm afraid I won't be able to hold on."
Lin Yuxiu, being the most considerate, said softly, "Big Brother, you should go and rest first. I'll chat with Third Sister, Fourth Sister, and me for a while longer." Even so, her face still showed a disappointed expression.
Ren Xiaoyao looked at Nangong Fengzi and Shui Furong, seeing that their reactions were the same, so he had to comfort them one by one, finally patting his chest and promising to "offer himself" the next night before he was able to leave.
Ren Xiaoyao returned to his residence, feeling dizzy and lightheaded. From a distance of several dozen feet, he was startled to find a beautiful young woman with fair skin and a graceful figure standing outside the door, clearly waiting for him. He was taken aback. "Whose daughter is this, coming so late at night... Heavens, could she be someone who admires my reputation and has come all this way..."
Ren Xiaoyao dared not think further. He was considering whether to hide somewhere temporarily to avoid any misunderstandings caused by the four women accidentally seeing him when, unexpectedly, the young woman walked towards him.
Upon seeing her face clearly, Ren Xiaoyao breathed a sigh of relief.
He smiled and stepped forward, cupping his hands in greeting, "Miss Tang, aren't you taking care of Brother Wei? Why have you come to my place?" Tang
Yan glanced at Ren Xiaoyao indifferently, then her delicate brows furrowed slightly, naturally revealing a cold and aloof expression that made one dare not offend her. It seemed that only in front of Wei Si, whom she admired, would she let go of the proud and reserved demeanor of the Tang Clan's young lady.
Ren Xiaoyao, who was confident that his smile alone could make any woman in the world fall for him, was completely unmoved in front of Tang Yan, and stood frozen on the spot.
Tang Yan raised her head, her pretty face full of charm, and slowly said, "Not inviting me in is one thing, but not even a greeting? Is this the hospitality of a 'romantic thief'?"
Ren Xiaoyao smiled bitterly to himself, bowed respectfully, and said solemnly, "Greetings to Miss Tang."
Tang Yan put her hands on her slender hips, revealing a satisfied expression, and said exaggeratedly, "Oh dear, Young Master Ren, such a grand gesture is too much for this humble lady to accept." Ren Xiaoyao thought to himself: "
She's definitely a spoiled young lady, pampered by Tang Yunhe. Give her a way out and she'll take it, showing no humility whatsoever. Unlike my Fengyi, who's well-educated, beautiful, and intelligent. Brother Wei is going to have a hard time from now on.
" Thinking this, he still maintained basic manners. Ren Xiaoyao smiled and said, "Miss Tang, let's talk inside."
Tang Yan coldly replied, "No need for formalities. I'll just ask a few questions and then leave."
Seeing her indifferent tone, Ren Xiaoyao felt something was amiss. Suddenly realizing Tang Yan might be putting on airs, he arrogantly sneered, "Miss Tang, do you know that even if the head of the Tang family were here in person, he wouldn't dare speak to me like that?"
Tang Yan, seeing Ren Xiaoyao's sudden change in attitude, was somewhat flustered, a slight embarrassment appearing on her pretty face.
Ren Xiaoyao pressed his advantage, flicking his sleeve and saying, "Miss Tang, I'm very tired. Let's talk about it tomorrow. " "Having said that, he pushed open the door and walked into the room without looking back.
Tang Yan finally gave in, her beautiful eyes revealing a look of melancholy and hurt, and she slumped down, saying, "Ren Xiaoyao, I've lost. You...you shouldn't be angry."

Volume Sixteen: A Hundred Years of Brotherly Love, Chapter Twelve: A Moment

of Passion. Ren Xiaoyao's movements became increasingly intense, and Nangong Fengzi's breathing became more and more rapid. She finally couldn't suppress the pleasure in her body, and in the midst of the ecstasy, she let out a series of shivers and cried out.
Her delicate body clung to Ren Xiaoyao's body almost convulsively, and beads of sweat fell, almost soaking the sheets.
"Ah!" Under Ren Xiaoyao's all-out attack, she groaned again, her soft and melodious moans unable to stop, and the blush on her skin from extreme excitement lingered for a long time.
Nangong Fengyi had turned her pretty face away at some point, her lustful eyes watching Ren Xiaoyao and Nangong Fengzi's passionate entanglement, clearly her own inner fire had been ignited.
"Ah! Ah!" "Ah! I can't take it anymore!" Nangong Fengzi finally reached the peak of pleasure, and I thrust into her body with all my might, pouring all my passion into her.
Nangong Fengyi's cheeks flushed red, lost in a state of infatuation, her hands involuntarily moving towards her crotch.
Ren Xiaoyao, still not satisfied, released Nangong Fengzi, who, with a flushed face, silently straightened her disheveled clothes, her alluring shyness particularly captivating him.
"Sister... Sister..." Nangong Fengzi then realized that Nangong Fengyi had seen everything about her intimate moments with Ren Xiaoyao, and she was so ashamed that she wanted to disappear. She grabbed Ren Xiaoyao's arm and bit him hard.
Ren Xiaoyao let out a feigned scream, then crawled into Nangong Fengyi's bed, only to find that her undergarments had already been quietly removed, and her body was burning hot.
"Fengyi, where are your clothes?" "Ren Xiaoyao grabbed her proud breasts and kneaded them incessantly, while biting her earlobe, saying, "Were you so anxious waiting that you took them off yourself?"
Nangong Fengyi, her face already flushed from his caresses, glared at him and gasped, "You...you're asking a question you already know the answer to."
Ren Xiaoyao chuckled wickedly, "A question you already know the answer to? A question you're deliberately doing, isn't that good?"
Nangong Fengyi weakly opened her phoenix eyes, overflowing with lust, and said in a coquettish voice, "Whatever you want, I have to keep my promise." The irresistible allure drew Ren Xiaoyao to accelerate his movements on her delicate body.
The seamless physical contact ignited their passion, and Nangong Fengyi, having tasted the sweetness, moaned incessantly as Ren Xiaoyao ravaged her, pleading for mercy.
The night was so beautiful, yet so fleeting.
As the ancients said, it was worth a thousand pieces of gold, but for Ren Xiaoyao, even a thousand pieces of gold couldn't describe what he had gained tonight.
When he awoke, all four beauties lay naked beside him. Shui Furong and Lin Yuxiu had been forcibly brought to bed by him in the latter half of the night, and he had cared for them one by one. Looking at them still soundly asleep, exhausted, a sense of pride as a man welled up within him.
Ren Xiaoyao quietly withdrew from between their pink buttocks and jade thighs, and walked out of the guest room alone.
Ye Zhi Qiu greeted him with a smile, and said leisurely, "Fourth brother, how was last night?"
Ren Xiaoyao was slightly embarrassed and lowered his voice, saying, "I am a man of passion, I hope third brother will understand."
Ye Zhi Qiu chuckled and said, "A man who is not romantic in his youth is not a true man, especially one as young and vigorous as you, fourth brother."
Ren Xiaoyao showed a knowing look between brothers and leaned closer, saying, "Third brother, is there something else important you want to see me about?"
Ye Zhi Qiu nodded slowly and said solemnly, "I have come specifically to say goodbye."
Ren Xiaoyao asked in surprise, "Saying goodbye? The three of you aren't going?" "Xunfeng City?"
Ye Zhi Qiu smiled and said, "No, it's just that since I'm going to the Tianji Sect headquarters under the pretext of mediating a dispute in Hanyang Village, I should go into the city with Chief Tong and the others, otherwise I'm afraid they'll see through me."
Ren Xiao Yao knew that he didn't want to be caught between him and the women, so he said in a deep voice, "Third Brother, how many days will it take you to reach Xunfeng City?"
Ye Zhi Qiu raised his eyebrows and said casually, "Ten days, half a month, or two weeks, it all depends on Fourth Brother's word." The implication was that when he arrived depended on how fast you and the four ladies traveled.
Ren Xiao Yao's eyes suddenly flashed with a sharp light, then he looked away and said in a deep voice, "Third Brother, you don't need to worry about me. You can go see the Dragon Sect Leader as soon as possible."
Ye Zhi Qiu asked in surprise, "As soon as possible?" Ren Xiao
Yao looked around and, seeing that no one was around, whispered, "Yes, talk to him about Hanyang Village, and drag it out, the longer the better."
Ye Zhi Qiu frowned and said, "It's just a small dispute; the Dragon Cult Leader might not be willing to lower himself..." Ren
Xiaoyao patted Ye Zhi Qiu's shoulder and laughed, "If we don't get to see the Dragon Cult Leader, then Mr. Zhuge's guess is probably correct."
Ye Zhi Qiu asked, "In that case, what's the point of talking?"
Ren Xiaoyao said thoughtfully, "Talking isn't the goal; it's merely to understand the Heavenly Extreme Sect's methods. The longer the Hanyang Village matter drags on, the better. Third Brother, not only should you not reach an agreement with the Heavenly Extreme Sect, but you should also make things difficult for them at every turn, ideally creating some conflict to see how they react."
Ye Zhi Qiu realized, "If the Heavenly Extreme Sect deliberately avoids us, then the internal strife will be obvious. At that time, you and I should first try to contact the Dragon Cult Leader, and after obtaining accurate information, we can ask Alliance Leader Liu to lead his men to our aid and completely eliminate the threat!" Ren Xiaoyao slowly said, "
Please remember, Third Brother, your every move not only represents the face of the Green Forest Alliance of the Thirteen Provinces, but also concerns the rise and fall of the Central Plains martial arts world. Do not act
impulsively out of righteousness." Ye Zhiqiu's lips curled into a confident smile, which quickly widened as he loudly proclaimed, "Third Brother will go first. Please wait for good news, Fourth Brother."
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
A thousand miles of mountains and rivers, nine gates of city walls, without witnessing the grandeur of Xunfeng, how can one know the supreme authority of Tianji?
The headquarters of Tianji Sect, Xunfeng City, is located on the south bank of the Wei River in the Guanzhong Plain, known as the "Eight Hundred Li Qin Chuan." To the north lies Zhongnan Mountain, a Taoist holy site with the "Nine Provinces' Perilous Pass." From Qinlong in the west to Lantian in the east, thousands of peaks form a green screen, majestic and imposing, with the perilous beauty of "Clouds hang across the Qinling Mountains, where is home? Snow blocks the Lantian Pass, the horse cannot move forward."
To the south are Yaoshan, Huanglongshan, Cuo'eshan, and other overlapping peaks and deep valleys, winding and stretching... Stretching out, facing the Qinling Mountains from afar,
Xunfeng City sits majestically on a vast fertile plain carved out by the mountains. The Jing, Wei, Yuan, Wen, Ba, Li, Lao, and Feng rivers, like sparkling beads, wind and meander around it, forming the "Eight Rivers Surrounding Xunfeng" landscape, a place of both strategic importance and breathtaking scenery. (

Volume Sixteen: Brotherly Love Across a Century, Chapter Thirteen: First Arrival at Xunfeng

) After the establishment of the Northern Song Dynasty, its capital was Bianliang. The vast Guanzhong Plain, stretching for thousands of miles, was devastated by the decline of Chang'an. While defensible, the city was in grave danger under the watchful eyes of the Liao and Xia kingdoms. Zhao Kuangyin then mobilized 100,000 elite troops of the Tianji Sect to construct Xunfeng City, a strategically vital location in Guanzhong. Not only were sturdy walls built with stone slabs and glutinous rice paste, but a moat over nine feet deep and six zhang wide was also dug. The city walls were dotted with fortifications, corner towers, parapets, gates, and barbicans, making its defenses even stronger than Bianliang, truly unparalleled in the world.
Xunfeng City consisted of an outer city, an inner city, and a main altar. In some parts, the rich Guanzhong style is woven from rivers, markets, streets, residences, bridges, and wharves. The inner city and the main altar are located slightly southwest, serving as the training grounds for the elite troops of the Five Halls of the Heavenly Pole Sect and the residences of their relatives and families. The outer city has seventeen north-south main streets and twenty-four east-west main streets, crisscrossing and dividing the inner city into one hundred and eighty-six wards, overlapping like a Go board.
The main traffic arteries of Xunfeng City consist of five north-south main streets running between the city gates and six east-west main streets. The city is composed of east-west main streets, the widest of which is Yunlong Street, known as the "Number One Street Under Heaven," spanning forty zhang (approximately 33 meters). It served as the imperial road for Zhao Kuangyin's military reviews during his inspection tours. Shops line both sides, and lanes branch off from the neighborhoods, intersecting with ten north-south and ten south-south streets connecting the major city gates, all in an orderly fashion. The surrounding area is planted with various trees such as cherry, pomegranate, elm, and willow, creating a picturesque scene of blooming peach blossoms and verdant willows during the transition from spring to summer. Besides Yunlong Street, Xunfeng City is most famous for its two markets located in the south and north of the city, each occupying four neighborhoods. These markets form a cross-shaped "well" pattern, dividing the city into thirteen districts. Each district faces four streets, with shops of various trades lining the streets. Grain shops, oil mills, and inns are all connected, and many restaurants and eateries operate 24 hours a day, making it the most prosperous area in Xunfeng City.
The Tianji Sect was founded by Zhao Kuangyin, and Xunfeng City was a carefully crafted fortress in Guanzhong, exempt from taxation. The national treasury was entirely allocated and used by the Tianji Sect. After Long Yinxiao succeeded as the sect leader, he appointed capable officials and worked diligently to govern the city. Not only did he uphold Zhao Kuangyin's dying wish to steadfastly strengthen the military, but he also vigorously developed commerce with the support of the imperial court. As a result, the Tianji Sect's army was the best in the world, and the prosperity of Xunfeng City was second only to Bianliang and Hangzhou.
Ren Xiaoyao rode into the city with four women. Even with his extensive experience, he was awestruck by the magnificent and prosperous scene. The city was a hundred paces wide, running north to south. Yunlong Avenue, with its two gates, stretched straight ahead, probably seven or eight li long. The street was bustling with traffic and pedestrians. To prevent flooding, drainage ditches, as wide as small streams, lined both sides. At the confluence of the ditches, stone bridges spanned the streets, creating a unique feature of Xunfeng City.
Just as Ren Xiaoyao sat down at the "Youpeng Tower" in the south of the city, a well-dressed man approached him, bowed respectfully, and said, "Are you the dashing thief Ren Xiaoyao?"
Ren Xiaoyao was slightly surprised but smiled and replied, "I dare not accept such praise; it is indeed I."
The man in fine clothes showed great delight and said solemnly, "My master heard that Young Hero Ren had arrived in Xunfeng City and ordered me to prepare wine and food. Please, sir
, move to the inner hall." Nangong Fengyi looked at Ren Xiaoyao and said softly, "Everyone says you have friends all over the world; I never expected to find old friends here."
Ren Xiaoyao pondered for a long time before saying, "Although I have traveled the martial world for a long time, I have never been to Guanzhong, so how could I..." He then turned to the man in fine clothes, clasped his hands in a fist and said, "May I ask your master's name?" The
man in fine clothes replied humbly, "Without my master's permission, I dare not reveal it."
Shui Furong suddenly interjected, "Is he a man or a woman?"
The man in fine clothes was taken aback, then chuckled, "Yes... My master is a true and upright man, Miss Shui, please do not misunderstand."
Ren Xiaoyao pressed, "Then you should at least tell me whether he is with you or not."
The man in fine clothes said apologetically, "I do not know, please forgive me, Young Hero Ren."
Ren Xiaoyao said casually, "It seems you don't even know why he ordered you to greet me here?"
The man in fine clothes explained awkwardly, "My master has long admired the 'Romantic Thief,' and recently learned that you, Young Hero Ren, have gone out with a beauty and will soon be coming to the headquarters. He is overjoyed and has specially ordered me to wait at Youpeng Tower and report back immediately upon receiving any news." Ren Xiaoyao said leisurely, "
There are hundreds of restaurants in Xunfeng City, and every single one of them has someone guarding it. I don't know if it's because I, Ren Xiaoyao, have a lot of influence, or if your master is just showing off."
The man in fine clothes replied truthfully, "Our master anticipated that Young Hero Ren would dine at Youpeng Restaurant, so he only sent me to wait here; there is no one else."
Ren Xiaoyao asked with great interest, "Oh, how did he know I would come here?"
The man in fine clothes replied respectfully, "Our lord once said that Chef Wu Dahai of Youpenglou spent three years at Qiqiaoge in Hangzhou, and his Zhejiang cuisine perfectly suits the tastes of the two young ladies of Tingyuxuan. The first thing Young Hero Ren did after entering Xunfeng City was to bring them here to taste their hometown flavors."
Ren Xiaoyao's heart skipped a beat. The other party had guessed his thoughts perfectly; this man's intentions were definitely not simple. In the world today, only Zhuge Wenjie and he himself possessed such ability. As for whether he was friend or foe, and what his true intentions were, it remained to be seen.
Nangong Fengyi asked quietly, "Besides the food and wine, what else did he ask you to prepare?"
The man in fine clothes replied solemnly, "Tingyuxuan is the richest place in the world. Ordinary things would not catch Miss Nangong's eye. I only have a complete map of Zhang Xunfeng City, so that Young Hero Ren can take his beauties on a trip."
Ren Xiaoyao was about to speak when Lin Yuxiu said impatiently, "Big brother, let's go with him to the inner hall, and we'll find out who that person is."
The man in fine clothes said apologetically, "My master has important business to attend to and is afraid he cannot accompany us today. I hope Young Hero Ren and the ladies will understand."
Ren Xiaoyao laughed heartily, clapping his hands and saying, "Interesting, interesting! The person who was invited has arrived, but the one who invited them is nowhere to be seen." Lin
Yuxiu moved closer and whispered in his ear, "Big brother, don't worry about whether he's here or not, let Xiuxiu fill her belly first."
Shui Furong smiled and said, "That's right, since someone is hosting, why be polite? It's just that the cook's skills might not be as good as mine."
Ren Xiaoyao made an exaggerated "why not eat if it's free" expression and said smugly, "Alright, let's go."

Volume Sixteen: Brotherly Love A Hundred Years of Deep Affection Important Announcement!

Volume Seventeen: Strict Security, Thousands of People in Attire Chapter One: Shocked

After the food and wine were served, the man in fine clothes respectfully took his leave, citing the need to personally report to his lord.
Nangong Fengyi said quietly, "Longjing Shrimp, West Lake Water Shield Soup, Shrimp and Eel Stir-fry, West Lake Vinegar Fish, Crispy Fried Tofu Skin Rolls, Fresh Crab Stew, Rock Sugar Turtle, Oyster Scrambled Eggs, Honey-Glazed Lotus Root, Lotus Leaf Steamed Pork, Hangzhou Braised Chicken, Tiger Spring Vegetarian Ham, Dried Vegetable Braised Pork, Clam and Yellow Croaker Soup, plus four kinds of pickled vegetables, four kinds of candied fruits, and one kind of soup, this person has quite a grand display."
Nangong Fengyi took a few bites and smiled sweetly, "Indeed, being able to taste authentic Zhejiang cuisine thousands of miles from home, Brother Xiaoyao is truly impressive."
Ren Xiaoyao frowned and remained silent, but Shui Furong interrupted, "The five characteristics of Zhejiang cuisine are: first, the wide variety of ingredients and the meticulous combination. The main ingredients emphasize seasonality and variety, and the selection of side ingredients and seasonings aims to highlight..." "First, it emphasizes the main ingredients, enhancing freshness and aroma, and removing fishy greasiness; second, it boasts exquisite knife skills and unique shapes; third, it prioritizes proper cooking time and seasoning; fourth, it achieves a balance of freshness, tenderness, and flavor; and fifth, it comprises three branches of Zhejiang cuisine, each with its own unique charm."
Lin Yuxiu asked softly, "Third Sister, what are these three branches you mentioned...?"
Shui Furong replied leisurely, "Zhejiang cuisine mainly consists of three local flavors: Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Shaoxing. They work together seamlessly, and I think Second Sister and Fifth Sister probably prefer Hangzhou cuisine the most."
Nangong Fengyi nodded and added, "Hangzhou cuisine is meticulously prepared, elegant and beautiful, and skilled in cooking techniques such as stir-frying, braising, and deep-frying. It is characterized by its freshness, tenderness, refinement, and mellowness. Ningbo chefs are particularly adept at preparing seafood, and their techniques..." Ren Xiaoyao is known for his stewing, roasting, and steaming techniques. His dishes are characterized by a balanced blend of savory and salty flavors, emphasizing freshness, tenderness, and the natural taste of the ingredients. He also has a unique approach to cooking with dried fish. Shaoxing cuisine is known for its fragrant, crispy, and tender textures, rich and flavorful soups, and the rustic charm of this ancient water town… “Hey, Xiaoyao, why are you sitting here daydreaming, not even touching your chopsticks?”
Ren Xiaoyao suddenly looked up, his deep eyes gleaming. He said in a low voice, “Senior Sister likes spicy food, and there are two kinds of pickles in front of her: Osmanthus Spicy Mustard and Honey-Glazed Spicy Cucumber; Xiuxiu likes sweets, and Honey-Glazed Lotus Root and Rock Sugar Turtle are nearby; Xiuxiu prefers milder flavors, and Clam and Yellow Croaker Soup and West Lake Water Shield Soup are not far away.”
Nangong Fengzi said nonchalantly, “Oh, perhaps it’s just a coincidence, nothing strange about it.”
Nangong… Fengyi frowned slightly and murmured, "No, this person knows us very well, so the dishes were arranged entirely according to the tastes of all the sisters."
Ren Xiaoyao agreed, "It's alright with you and me, but Senior Sister has only been in the Central Plains for a few dozen days, yet he still figured her out perfectly. It's clear that this person is extremely capable in terms of both cunning and wisdom."
Meng Ruyan asked doubtfully, "Who could he be?"
Ren Xiaoyao said solemnly, "I'm not sure about the rest, but at least I know he's from the Tianji Sect."
Nangong Fengzi parted her fragrant lips slightly and asked, "How do you know?" Nangong Fengyi smiled and said, "Sister, have you forgotten? That person said 'coming soon to the main altar.' If he weren't from the Tianji Sect, he would never address Xunfeng City like that."
Shui Furong smiled and said, "Sister's insight is keen; she's definitely no less perceptive than that person."
Nangong Fengyi revealed her usual icy expression and said softly, "Third Sister is too kind. I was just listening more carefully; I'm still far inferior to Xiaoyao and Mr. Zhuge."
Ren Xiaoyao sighed, "Alas, if Mr. Zhuge were here, I wouldn't be so perplexed." Meng
Ruyan asked with a smile, "You rascal, what's so perplexing about you?"
Ren Xiaoyao gave a mischievous smile, then frowned and said, "If it were a young lady, it wouldn't be a problem if she paid some attention to me, but he's a man, and he knows all about you. This is truly baffling."
Shui Furong spat lightly, "You don't think he's after the sisters, do you?"
Ren Xiaoyao slammed his hand on the table and stood up, feigning anger, "He wouldn't dare! I just suspect that he didn't simply want to invite me to dinner at Youpeng Tower, but rather..."
Nangong Fengyi exclaimed in surprise, "He... he wouldn't have already seen through our true purpose for this trip, would he?"
Ren Xiaoyao pondered, "That's unlikely. Unless Zhuge Liang were alive, who would have thought that we, who have been enjoying the scenery along the way, were actually here to investigate the internal strife within the Tianji Sect?" "
Nangong Fengyi continued, "Then what are you worried about?"
Ren Xiaoyao lowered his voice and said, "This person went to great lengths to investigate our strengths and weaknesses. Is it to befriend us, or to warn us not to plot against the Tianji Sect?"
Nangong Fengyi gently comforted him, "We're new here; there's no need to worry too much about such a small matter."
Shui Furong said sweetly, "That's right, Brother Xiaoyao is always calm and composed; how could he be troubled by such trivial matters?"
Ren Xiaoyao revealed a bitter expression and slowly said, "If it were only about me, I would smile and accept it. But at this moment, I carry the heavy trust of Senior Dugu and Alliance Leader Liu, and even... even the rise and fall of the entire Central Plains martial arts world. I must be cautious and careful, and dare not make the slightest mistake."
Meng Ruyan's jade face turned cold as she stared fiercely at Ren Xiaoyao and said coldly, "You brat, are you scared?"
Ren Xiaoyao said solemnly, "I'm not afraid, I'm worried that the grand plan to aid the Tianji Sect will be ruined in my hands." Meng
Ruyan raised her eyebrows, unable to contain her anger, and scolded, "You, when you first left Coconut Island, how confident and arrogant you were, practically aloof and looking down on everyone! How come you've become so hesitant over time?"
Ren Xiaoyao's face turned red, and he was speechless.
Nangong Fengyi couldn't help but lean close to Ren Xiaoyao's ear and whispered softly, "Xiaoyao, I know that what you care about most isn't yourself, but the safety of your sisters, but you can't say it in front of Miss Meng. Don't worry, we can protect ourselves. And don't forget, President Ye arrived in Xunfeng City before us. Perhaps he has already found the answers to the things that are currently puzzling you."
Ren Xiaoyao seemed to be awakened by her words, his eyes shining brightly, and he straightened his back and said, "Alright, let's drink and be merry while we can, let's have a good drink first."
Lin Yuxiu's beautiful eyes, filled with affection, revealed a joyful expression. She leaned over and lightly kissed his cheek, saying softly, "That's right, that's the kind of big brother Xiuxiu likes."

Volume Seventeen: Heavily Guarded, Thousands in Attention, Chapter Two: Sinister Intentions

. After several rounds of drinks, hurried footsteps sounded outside the door.
Nangong Fengzi exclaimed happily, "Brother Xiaoyao, could it be that person?"
Ren Xiaoyao smiled and said, "Judging from the rise and fall of their steps, it should be..."
"Fourth Brother!" Before he could finish speaking, Ye Zhiqiu suddenly pushed open the door and entered. Ren Xiaoyao hurriedly stood up to greet him.
After a brief exchange of pleasantries, the two got down to business.
Ren Xiaoyao asked, "Third Brother, how's the investigation into the internal strife within the Heavenly Pole Sect going?"
Ye Zhiqiu smiled bitterly, "If I said there's been no progress, would you believe me?"
Ren Xiaoyao's eyes widened in astonishment as he looked at him, surprised, "You...you didn't see the Dragon Sect Leader, did you?"
Ye Zhiqiu slowly nodded.
Ren Xiaoyao exclaimed, "How is this possible? The leader of the Green Forest Alliance of thirteen provinces, the Dragon Cult Leader won't even see him! Could it be... could it be that the internal strife within the Heavenly Extreme Sect has truly reached an uncontrollable point?"
Ye Zhi Qiu said solemnly, "The Dragon Cult Leader is not in Xunfeng City at all."
"What!" Everyone exclaimed in unison.
Ye Zhi Qiu explained in detail, "A month ago, the Dragon Cult Leader was summoned to the capital for a meeting, and then went to Daming Prefecture and Taiyuan Prefecture to inspect the troops. He has not yet returned."
Ren Xiaoyao asked in a deep voice, "The two Vice Cult Leaders, Qin and Zhang, haven't returned either?"
Ye Zhi Qiu replied, "Yes, but don't worry, Fourth Brother, their safety is not a problem. Otherwise, Xunfeng City would have been in chaos long ago."
Ren Xiaoyao pressed, "Who is in charge of the Heavenly Extreme Cult now?"
Ye Zhi Qiu said, enunciating each word clearly, "Long Feiyun, son of Long Yin Xiao and Vice Hall Master of the Qilin Hall."
Ren Xiaoyao exclaimed, "It's not Liu Ningtao, the fourth most important figure in the Heavenly Extreme Cult!"
Ye Zhi Qiu truthfully explained, "Liu Ningtao is in charge of internal affairs, assisted by Liu Qingping, Zhu Shunwu is in charge of external affairs, and Qin Tianyu is in charge of internal affairs, but ultimately, all matters, large and small, still require Long Feiyun's approval."
Ren Xiaoyao murmured. He murmured, "Long Feiyun, Long Feiyun, how come I've never heard of him before?"
Ye Zhi Qiu said with longing, "He is Long Yin Xiao's only son, and he has always lived a secluded life, rarely venturing into the martial world. It's not surprising that Fourth Brother has no recollection of him."
Ren Xiaoyao smiled with interest, "Judging from Third Brother's tone, it seems you care quite a bit about Long Feiyun."
Ye Zhi Qiu's eyes flashed with sharp light as he stared at Ren Xiaoyao, "Hmm, I dare say that if he had taken over the Tianji Sect six months earlier, the Four Heroes of the Martial World would have become the Five Heroes."
Ren Xiaoyao's curiosity was piqued, and he said with emotion, "Oh, Third Brother actually values Long Feiyun so much."
Ye Zhi Qiu sighed softly with an extremely rare tone of praise, "This man is of outstanding integrity, possesses both wisdom and courage, and his literary talent rivals that of Zhuge Liang. In terms of martial arts, he is not as good as you ..." "Below me."
Ren Xiaoyao's gaze suddenly sharpened, and he said in a deep voice, "Is Third Brother exaggerating?"
Ye Zhi Qiu said decisively, "Absolutely not. When I was discussing the dispute with the Tianji Sect over Hanyang Village, I did my best to create conflict, as my Fourth Brother suggested. Qin Tianyu, who was initially in charge of the negotiations, was furious and refused to make any concessions. After hearing the news, Long Feiyun came to meet with me personally and managed to resolve the matter satisfactorily with his sharp words."
Ren Xiaoyao asked in astonishment, "What? He saw through your intentions?"
Ye Zhi Qiu smiled bitterly, "How could he have seen through me? He even guessed exactly what I wanted to say. In less than half a day, the two sides turned hostility into friendship. Even though I deliberately made things difficult and tried to create trouble, in the end... alas, it was all in vain."
Ren Xiaoyao struggled to suppress his astonishment and asked in a deep voice, "What about martial arts? What do you mean by martial arts?" Ye
Zhi Qiu replied with feeling, "I sparred with him once. Although I was lucky enough to win by half a move, it was because he deliberately let me win. If he really wanted to compete, his chances of winning would be at most... at most fifty percent."
Nangong Fengzi interjected, "Brother Xiaoyao, could it be him who hosted the banquet for us?"
Ye Zhi Qiu was taken aback when he asked, "Banquet?"
Ren Xiaoyao recounted the whole story, and Ye Zhi Qiu laughed loudly, "Hahaha, I didn't expect that Fourth Brother would experience Long Feiyun's prowess so soon after entering Xunfeng City."
Upon hearing this, Ren Xiaoyao breathed a sigh of relief. At least he now knew the other party's true identity, so he wouldn't be kept in the dark about being schemed against one day.
Nangong Fengyi said softly, "Leaving aside Long Feiyun, that seemingly unassuming man in fine clothes is quite remarkable."
Lin Yuxiu's eyes trembled as she muttered to herself, "His temples are bulging; he must have practiced external martial arts like the Golden Bell Cover or Iron Shirt, for at least thirty years."
Ye Zhiqiu smiled mysteriously, "Do you two ladies know who this man in fine clothes is?"
Nangong Fengyi guessed, "He always refers to Long Feiyun as his superior, so he must be Long Feiyun's subordinate."
Ye Zhiqiu said slowly, enunciating each word clearly, "This man's surname is Jing, and his given name is Si!"
Ren Xiaoyao exclaimed in surprise, "He... he is Jing Si, a trusted general under Long Yinxiao, the current head of the Heavenly Pole Sect's internal guard, and known in the martial arts world as the 'Golden Armor Heavenly King'?" Ye Zhi Qiu solemnly said, "
That's right. Jing Si's external martial arts are unparalleled. Back when our dynasty was attacking the Northern Han, and our army approached Taiyuan, Jing Si, then a military officer in the Tianwu Army, braved arrows and led his men to scale the city walls. Two arrows pierced his feet, and the cannon in his hand had two teeth broken, yet he still fought to the death without retreating. Emperor Taizong personally praised him and bestowed upon him the title of Golden Armored Heavenly
King, a rank equivalent to a marquis." Ren Xiaoyao showed an expression of intently listening to Ye Zhi Qiu's words, and chuckled, "It seems that Long Feiyun is quite respectful to me, actually sending a general of duke or marquis rank to greet me."
Lin Yuxiu's beautiful eyes swept over him, and she said charmingly, "Big brother, in Xiuxiu's opinion, Jing Si's purpose is to probe your strength and see how much the legendary all-powerful romantic thief really weighs."
Ren Xiaoyao lowered his head and remained silent, seemingly deep in thought.
Nangong Fengzi said anxiously, "Brother Xiaoyao, Long Feiyun has ulterior motives. We must be very careful!"
Ren Xiaoyao suddenly looked up, nodded, and said, "Xiuxiu and Fengzi are absolutely right. If it weren't for your reminder, I might have fallen into their trap without even realizing it." Nangong
Fengzi and Lin Yuxiu smiled and revealed expressions of joy.

Volume Seventeen: Heavily Guarded, Thousands in Attention, Chapter Three: The Art of Taming Women

After lunch, Ye Zhiqiu dragged Ren Xiaoyao to a secluded spot and said with a smile, "Fourth brother is indeed well-versed in the art of taming women. He clearly guessed Long Feiyun's intentions long ago, but he didn't point it out. He insisted that Miss Lin and Miss Nangong say it, and then pretended to suddenly understand."
Ren Xiaoyao's eyes gleamed, but his expression was more resolute and sincere than ever before. He slowly said, "That's right, I was indeed acting, but the purpose was not to deceive them, but to let them know that they are by my side not only to serve me, take care of me, and please me. Whether it's for survival or for dealing with people, Ren Xiaoyao needs their help and reminders at all times." "
Ye Zhi Qiu asked, seemingly understanding but not quite, "So that's why you deliberately created opportunities for them to showcase themselves; deliberately made them understand how important they are to you; deliberately..."
Ren Xiaoyao waved his hand to interrupt, "For love, for affection, for the women I love, I'm willing to give everything."
Ye Zhi Qiu sighed, "If the ladies knew how deeply Fourth Brother loved you, they would be greatly moved."
Ren Xiaoyao, speaking from experience, asked with a smile, "Third Brother, you roam the greenwood, your name resounds throughout the martial world. You must have a few confidantes by your side, enjoying romantic moments under the moon, drinking and chatting—wouldn't that be wonderful?"
Ye Zhi Qiu said slowly in a low but firm voice, "I have only one woman in my heart. If I cannot wait for him, I will never marry in this life."
Ren Xiaoyao was taken aback at first, then leaned forward and asked, "Which noble family's daughter is this who has won Third Brother's favor? Or perhaps a female knight-errant with both beauty and talent?"
Ye Zhi Qiu's face immediately flushed red, and he stammered, "I...I don't even know her name."
Ren Xiaoyao laughed and said, "Since Third Brother is so fond of this beauty, why not ask her clearly?"
Ye Zhi Qiu said shyly, " " Well... I was only ten years old then, how could I understand all this?"
Ren Xiaoyao clicked his tongue and said, "Ten years old? Third brother, wow, you knew how to pursue girls at ten... Wait, how old was the girl you liked?"
Ye Zhi Qiu casually replied, "About six years old, I'm not really sure."
Ren Xiaoyao became confused and scratched his head, saying, "Six... six years old, is a six-year-old girl worth liking? Besides, more than ten years have passed, and you still can't forget her, isn't that a bit too infatuated?"
Ye Zhi Qiu awkwardly explained, "Fourth brother, you don't know, I lost my father at a young age and was raised by my mother. When I was ten, the village suffered a famine, and my mother left the last of her food for me, and she... she herself..."
At this point, he was overcome with grief, and tears streamed down his face: "Later I finally learned that the imperial court had already allocated grain for disaster relief, but corrupt officials withheld it, which is why hundreds of people in the village starved to death. In a fit of anger, I went to the county government alone, intending to assassinate the corrupt officials to avenge my mother, but I was captured alive because I was small and weak." The corrupt official, fearing a famine-stricken uprising, sentenced me to immediate execution as a warning to others. On the day of my execution, I resigned myself to death, but unexpectedly, a man in yellow rushed into the execution ground and saved me. He told me that ten years ago, my parents had been kind to him, and he had come to Hejian intending to repay them. However, Heaven had left him only a child, orphaned and destitute.
Ren Xiaoyao, deeply moved, choked up and asked, "And then?"
Ye Zhi Qiu recalled, "My benefactor asked me if I originally wanted to go with him and enjoy wealth and honor, but I..." "I refused, only asking him to teach me martial arts so that one day I could sweep away all evil in the world with my own strength. My benefactor was deeply moved, not only imparting to me many internal energy cultivation methods, but also leaving me an unnamed sword manual for me to study."
Ren Xiaoyao murmured, "So the girl you like..."
Ye Zhi Qiu interrupted, "She is my benefactor's daughter. From the time my benefactor rescued me from the execution ground until I left Hejian, she stayed by my side for three months. Without her encouragement and support, without her care and attention, there would be no 'Proud Snow Cold Sword' that roams the martial world today."
Ren Xiaoyao felt an indescribable surge of emotion. He had never imagined that those childhood events would still affect Ye Zhi Qiu to this day. He sighed, "So there is only a place for her in your heart, so you can never forget her in this life, so you would rather endure unimaginable loneliness to wait for her to return."
Ye Zhi Qiu's eyes shone with intense emotion, and he said firmly, "Yes, Ye Zhi Qiu will marry no one but her in this life."
Ren Xiaoyao Xiaoyao sighed, "Have you searched for her all these years?"
Ye Zhiqiu shook his head, "Search? I don't know her name, nor do I know what she looks like now, how can I search?"
Ren Xiaoyao blurted out, "Why not just find your master?"
Ye Zhiqiu smiled bitterly, "I've spent less than a hundred days with my master. Whenever I ask him his name, he always laughs and says, 'Since you don't want to leave your hometown with me, you don't need to care about my identity as your master.' So even now, I don't know who my master who passed on all my skills is."
Ren Xiaoyao said thoughtfully, "With internal energy cultivation methods, a nameless sword manual, and only three months of oral instruction, you were able to forge the Aoxue Han Sword, one of the Four Heroes of the Martial World. Your master's martial arts are probably even above Master Xiaochen's." Ye Zhiqiu said
solemnly, "That's true, but as far as I know, there is no one else in the Central Plains martial world with such cultivation except for Senior Dugu, so..." As he spoke, he sighed repeatedly, clearly racking his brains but still unable to guess his master's true identity.
Ren Xiaoyao comforted him, "Do you have any particular impression of that girl? Perhaps I can try to help you find her."
"I only remember that her nickname was Shishi, and she had a particularly cute smile..." Ye Zhiqiu, full of tenderness and affection, rambled on for a long time, recounting many amusing childhood memories. It was remarkable that he remembered them so clearly, demonstrating his deep affection for Shishi. Finally, he blurted out, "Oh, right, she had a bright red crescent-shaped birthmark below her neck, which is the easiest way to identify her."
Ren Xiaoyao was dumbfounded. "Below the neck" usually refers to the chest. When Shishi was younger, it wasn't a big deal if Ye Zhiqiu saw her playing in the water, but now that she was sixteen or seventeen, even if she were an idiot, she wouldn't casually expose such a place to others.

Volume Seventeen, Heavily Guarded, Chapter Four: Night Raid on the Headquarters.

Ye Zhi Qiu said shyly, "Let's not talk about that. Let's talk about the Heavenly Pole Sect."
Ren Xiao Yao said solemnly, "Hmm, the Heavenly Pole Sect is clearly experiencing internal strife, yet Long Fei Yun is leisurely staying at the headquarters. There must be something fishy going on."
Ye Zhi Qiu said solemnly, "If you suspect that Long Fei Yun wants to kill his father and seize power, then you are very wrong."
Ren Xiao Yao chuckled, "At first, I did think about it, but after hearing your description, I immediately dismissed the idea. I have never met Long Fei Yun, and I dare not speculate on his thoughts. But Jing Si's character is well-known in the martial arts world. After Emperor Taizong unified the Central Plains, he rewarded his officials and bestowed upon Jing Si the title of Yangwu General. Jing Si declined the honor, preferring to serve as an ordinary guard by Long Yin Xiao's side. He is truly loyal, righteous, and indifferent to fame and fortune. If Long Fei Yun had..." "With a heart set on usurping power, how could Jing Si possibly come to probe my strength for him?"
Ye Zhi Qiu frowned and said, "Long Yin Xiao hinted at internal strife within our Tianji Sect, yet Long Fei Yun remains unharmed. Could it be that Mr. Zhuge's judgment is wrong, and nothing has actually happened to the Tianji Sect?"
Ren Xiao Yao said confidently, "Impossible. If everything is as usual, why hasn't Sect Leader Long returned for so long? Would a mere inspection of soldiers take half a month?"
Ye Zhi Qiu asked, "Then why is the current situation so different from the chaos and decay we anticipated?"
Ren Xiao Yao murmured, "Perhaps it's the calm before the storm. In any case, we must find an opportunity to enter the Tianji Sect's headquarters and investigate thoroughly." Ye Zhi Qiu agreed, "Fourth Brother is right. There's no time to lose. Let's go tonight, shall we?" Ren Xiao Yao focused his eyes and nodded, "Alright, as Third Brother
suggests ." ※ ※ ※ ※ ※ The wind was light, the clouds were thin, and the moon was bright but the stars were few—not the best time for night travelers to appear. But in Ren Xiaoyao's view, as long as he wanted to go somewhere, even in the midday sun, he could pass through palaces, corridors, and gardens as if they were empty. Opening his package and taking out his familiar pure white night clothes, Ren Xiaoyao leisurely changed his attire. "Whoosh!" The door suddenly opened, and Ye Zhi Qiu darted in. "Third Brother, are you ready?" Ren Xiaoyao asked calmly. "Everything is ready, but..." Ye Zhi Qiu said in a deep voice, "I received news half an hour ago that Long Fei Yun suddenly ordered a significant increase in the number of night patrols at the main altar. It is estimated that the number of guards around the Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise halls has exceeded six hundred. Adding the Qilin Hall and the three halls and five pavilions used by the leader daily, the total number is no less than a thousand." Ren Xiaoyao said with emotion, "Good heavens, Long Fei Yun is clearly targeting me." Ye Zhi Qiu chuckled and said, "It's a pity he doesn't know that the more people there are, the more Fourth Brother likes it. If there are too few, the 'Romantic Thief' won't bother to venture out." Ren Xiaoyao laughed loudly, "Hahaha, Third Brother understands me best." Ye Zhi Qiu's smile faded, and he said solemnly, "Even so, we still need to be careful. Although Qin Huaiyu and Zhang Jinghong are missing from the 'Six Swords of Heavenly Extremes,' none of the remaining ones are easy to deal with."

Ren Xiaoyao smiled confidently, "Not only Liu Ningtao, Zhu Shunwu, Liu Qingping, and Qin Tianyu, but even if I encounter ordinary guards, I won't let my guard down. After all, the elite troops trained by Jing Si are not so easy to deal with."
Ye Zhiqiu gripped Mo Lianfeng tightly and said casually, "Let's go. There's no need to wait any longer."
Ren Xiaoyao leaned closer and said mysteriously, "No rush, we need to change the plan first."
Ye Zhiqiu understood and said, "You want to leave me behind and act alone to teach Long Feiyun a lesson?"
Ren Xiaoyao smiled smugly, "He angered me once, so I have to give him a taste of his own medicine." Fair enough.
Ye Zhiqiu knew that he couldn't defeat him on this matter, so he had to give in and said: "Okay, you can go, but don't go too far, at least you can show off the dragon roar to save face."
Ren Xiaoyao suddenly said: "Does Long Yinxiao have a daughter?" "
Ye Zhiqiu said in shock: "No...no. "
Ren Xiaoyao sighed and said: "That's it. If he has a daughter, maybe I will try my best to 'steal' the girl's heart back, but Long Feiyun is his son, what can I do. "
Ye Zhiqiu smiled and scolded: "How long has it been, and you are still making such a joke.
Ren Xiaoyao waved his hand and said: "Hahaha, it's just a joke. Let's get down to business quickly." ”
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
The Tianji Sect General Altar is located on the west side of Xunfeng City, and is divided into two parts: the outer altar and the inner altar. The outer altar is opposite the Mingde Gate, the main gate in the west of the city, and is connected to Yunlong Street. The main gate in the east of the palace city, Haotian Gate, connects the two markets in the northwest. Chengtian Gate is the gate in the west of the palace city, and inside the gate is the backyard of the general altar, "Qinglan Garden". The Haotian, Chengtian, and Shuntian gates form the main axis of the main altar, fortified with strong defenses and heavily guarded. The Shuntian gate, in particular, is the headquarters of the Heavenly Pole Sect's Imperial Guard, possessing formidable strength; whoever controls the Shuntian gate controls the main altar, and even the entire Xunfeng City. The outer altar consists of four parts: the Azure Dragon Hall in the east, the White Tiger Hall in the west, the Vermilion Bird Hall in the south, and the Black Tortoise Hall
in the north. The inner altar is divided into two sections: the Qilin Hall on the left and the Three Halls and Five Pavilions on the right. The Taiji Hall is where Long Yinxiao resides; the Wude Hall is used to receive guests; and various ceremonies and rituals are held in the Yeting Hall.
The Lizheng Pavilion, Chengqing Pavilion, Guangtian Pavilion, Ganlu Pavilion, and Yanjia Pavilion are all built along the central axis from the Haotian Gate to the Chengtian Gate. The Lizheng Pavilion, also known as the "Lizheng Pavilion," is the main building of the main altar. On the first and fifteenth days of each month, Long Yinxiao meets with his subordinates here and handles sect affairs. North of the Lizheng Pavilion is the Chengqing Pavilion, the "Inner Court," where only the five hall masters qualified to make decisions can enter and participate. Important matters of the sect are often discussed and decided here first, before being proposed and discussed in the Lizheng Pavilion regarding the selection of personnel and methods for implementation.
North of these two halls are the Guangtian Pavilion, Ganlu Pavilion, and the living quarters of the families and relatives of the hall masters and other high-ranking figures. Further north, outside the Yanjia Pavilion, is the Inner Guard Station, the main headquarters of the main altar, permanently garrisoned by a large number of troops, responsible for the defense of the main altar city. Therefore, the Yanjia Pavilion is the most dangerous place in Xunfeng City; a single misstep could easily attract thousands of elite inner guards. (

Volume 17, Chapter 5: Heartfelt Admiration)

When passing through the Haotian Gate and arriving at the cross street outside the Qinglong Hall, even Ren Xiaoyao, a man accustomed to such sights, was awestruck by the imposing grandeur of this long, north-south, east-west plaza. Especially with the towering building atop Haotian Gate, just imagining the Tianji Sect holding a celebration there, with dragons roaring and ascending to the top, and a hundred thousand followers lining up to welcome them, makes one's blood boil.
He even imagined: what would it be like if one day, Ren Xiaoyao, were the one presiding over the celebration?
Ye Zhi Qiu was responsible for scouting the outer altar, while Ren Xiaoyao personally went to the inner altar.
Avoiding the patrols of more than a dozen groups of imperial guards, Ren Xiaoyao easily arrived outside the Qilin Hall. Standing atop the tall building under the cover of night, the towering eaves and roofs were clearly visible, and the defenses within a radius of a hundred feet were all laid out before him.
The Qilin Hall was composed of seven buildings, connected and transitioned by doorways, long corridors, winding corridors, and courtyards, establishing the relationship between the seven groups of buildings. Halls, pavilions, rooms, studies, galleries, towers, terraces, verandas, pavilions, and kiosks—the various architectural styles presented diverse variations, yet they formed a unified whole.
As midnight approached, the Moon-Gazing Pavilion in the center of the Qilin Hall remained brightly lit. Unlike other pavilions, this was a courtyard palace surrounded by a covered corridor, a two-story wooden structure with vermilion doors and red windows, flying eaves and tiled roofs, painted beams and carved pillars. It stood tall among a cluster of buildings, including towers, halls, pavilions, and galleries. The corridors were illuminated by palace lanterns every ten steps, making it as bright as day. From a distance, it resembled a lantern array, a truly spectacular sight.
To Ren Xiaoyao's surprise, while the corridors of the other buildings were guarded by imperial guards, heavily fortified, this place was completely deserted.
"What's going on? Playing hard to get? Hmph, I'll see what tricks Long Feiyun has up his sleeve!" Ren Xiaoyao was indeed highly skilled and daring. Even knowing something was amiss, he still leaped down.
The moment his toes touched the ground, a soft, deep, and melodious male voice rang in his ears: "Ren Xiaoyao, the dashing thief, orphaned at a young age, was raised by his master, Meng Fei, the Silver Wing Iron Palm. He inherited all of Meng Fei's palm techniques and lightness skills. Nine months ago, he left Coconut Island and made a name for himself as a 'thief' in the martial world. Later, due to a joke made by Zhuge Wenjie at a dinner table, he added the title 'dasher' to his name."
Ren Xiaoyao's expression changed slightly, and he said in a deep voice, "The Heavenly Extreme Sect's intelligence network is indeed meticulous." " You seem to know everything about my every move."
The man continued, "Besides Master Meng, quite a few others have instructed you in martial arts: the Four Sages of Qin, Chess, Calligraphy, and Painting; Nangong Bubai; Yi Tianhan; and Dugu Yu. Any one of them is a renowned and influential figure in the martial world. No wonder Brother Ren is among the Four Heroes of the Martial World before he's even twenty."
Ren Xiaoyao's expression changed drastically. The others were one thing, but the matter of the Four Sages of Qin, Chess, Calligraphy, and Painting was a secret he had always kept. How could Long Feiyun know?
The man seemed to have read Ren Xiaoyao's mind and said casually, "Young Master Ren, there's no need to be alarmed. There are very few anecdotes in the martial world that I don't know, let alone the 'Romantic Thief' who is famous throughout the Nine Cities. You need to pay even more attention to him."
Without further hesitation, Ren Xiaoyao pushed open the door and entered.
The main hall was not only spacious and ornately decorated, but its grandeur was comparable to the inner palace of an imperial palace. Six gilded pillars, painted in a delicate pink, rise straight to the roof, the ceiling adorned with intricate designs. The central caisson features a three-dimensional relief of a Qilin (a mythical creature), its form resembling that of a lion or tiger, standing approximately nine feet tall, chest out, back arched, neck short and broad, head raised as if roaring towards the heavens. The animal's body is richly decorated, possessing a strong three-dimensional quality. While emphasizing overall harmony, it also employs exaggeration and distortion, resulting in a magnificent and vibrant effect.
Admiring this sight, Ren Xiaoyao's gaze was drawn to the calligraphy of renowned masters from various dynasties hanging on the four walls. Not a single piece was a forgery; each was a priceless masterpiece.
"These are some calligraphy and paintings collected by my father. There may be some mediocre works among them; I hope Young Hero Ren will forgive my poor work." Amidst a long laugh, a radiant and spirited young man in fine clothes stepped forward. His near-perfectly handsome face was flawless. His eyes, bright and expressive, were perfectly set in long, well-proportioned sockets, conveying a stubborn and resolute confidence. A leisurely smile played on his lips, and beneath his calm exterior lay a melancholic expression that could move anyone, yet also conveyed a deep and unfathomable emotion. His unwavering, mountain-like posture exuded both arrogance and refined elegance.
Without a doubt, the newcomer was Long Feiyun.
Ren Xiaoyao, shaking his head, praised, "Wang Xizhi's 'Hanqie Tie,' Ouyang Xun's 'Huangfu Dan Stele,' Yan Zhenqing's 'Draft of a Eulogy for My Nephew,' Zhan Ziqian's 'Spring Outing,' Yan Liben's 'Emperor Taizong Receiving the Tibetan Envoy,' and Wu Daozi's 'Five Saints' are all rare treasures. I can't even begin to admire them, so how can you say I'm laughing at them?"
Long Feiyun was moved and said, "Indeed, he is a young hero trained by the calligraphy sage Shu Zhenpeng and the painting sage Hua Tianzhao. He truly deserves the title of 'both literary and martial, wise and brave.'" Ren Xiaoyao said
indifferently, "I only glanced at the calligraphy and paintings a few times, and Master Long has already made such a praise of wisdom and bravery. Isn't that a bit of an overstatement?" He was deliberately trying to give Long Feiyun a hard time, and he didn't hold back at all.
Long Feiyun stared intently at Ren Xiaoyao, and said in a deep voice, "If you weren't incredibly wise and brave, how could you dare to sneak into our sect's headquarters at night? If you weren't incredibly wise and brave, how could you treat our thousand-plus guards as nothing? If you weren't incredibly wise and brave, how could you have avoided all ten-plus traps and mechanisms set by Uncle Jing?"
Ren Xiaoyao smiled leisurely, "It seems that Hall Master Long wanted to test the 'Romantic Thief's' mettle, which is why he significantly increased the number of night patrols. Fortunately, I was lucky enough to meet Hall Master Long
without any major incident." Long Feiyun smiled wryly, "There's a saying in the martial world that if you, Ren Xiaoyao, want to go somewhere, there's nowhere you can't go. I used to think it was an exaggeration, but only today do I understand that it's absolutely true."
Ren Xiaoyao shrugged nonchalantly and asked casually, "How did Hall Master Long predict that I would definitely..." "Come here."
Long Feiyun's eyes gleamed, and he laughed heartily, "Listening Rain Pavilion, Phoenix Cry Pavilion, Inviting Moon Tower, Divine Fire Hall—when have you ever not arrived on the same day? Besides, I've already had Uncle Jing give you the map. If you didn't come, you wouldn't be Ren Xiaoyao."
Ren Xiaoyao's gaze was intense as he leaned forward and said, "Can I take Master Long's gift of the map as a challenge?"
Long Feiyun spread his hands and smiled wryly, "Of course you can, and this will be the first and perhaps the last challenge that will make me, Long Feiyun, accept defeat wholeheartedly."

Volume Seventeen: Heavily Guarded, Thousands in Attire, Chapter Six:

A Huge Misunderstanding. Ren Xiaoyao's heart tightened. He was decisive and wouldn't act rashly. Compared to the arrogant and self-righteous scions of noble families like Tang Dingnan and Situ Shangming, Long Feiyun's cunning was indeed unfathomable.
Long Feiyun invited Ren Xiaoyao to sit down, and the beautiful and charming maid Xiao Feng immediately served fragrant tea.
Just as Ren Xiaoyao was pondering whether to bluntly reveal the true purpose of his trip to Long Feiyun, Long Feiyun said, "Young Master Ren's visit to Xunfeng City is probably not just about traveling with beauties."
Ren Xiaoyao remained calm and smiled composedly, "That's right, bringing a few ladies to your sect to broaden their horizons is indeed only one of my many purposes."
Long Feiyun raised his eyebrows and sized up Ren Xiaoyao, saying, "Oh, so Young Master Ren's main purpose is..."
Ren Xiaoyao chuckled, his demeanor dashing and handsome, and said in a deep voice, "First, I have long admired Sect Leader Long, but unfortunately, he was not present at this martial arts conference. The only way to witness the 'Wind and Cloud Sword Saint's' prowess is to come to Xunfeng City; second, I have heard that your sect has produced several young heroes, and I would like to spar with them so that we can learn from each other." After much consideration, he decided not to reveal the internal strife for the time being, lest the news be inadvertently leaked and alert the enemy.
A sharp glint flashed in Long Feiyun's eyes, and he pressed forward with a firm tone, "Young Master Ren, we are both intelligent men, there's no need for such pretense."
Ren Xiaoyao pondered the meaning behind Long Feiyun's words, but remained outwardly calm, his composure unwavering even in the face of a collapsing mountain. He smiled and said, "Does Hall Master Long think I have other motives?"
Long Feiyun's eyes shone with a deep and captivating light of wisdom as he coldly uttered three words: "Of course you do!"
Ren Xiaoyao's heart trembled, but he remained outwardly composed, saying casually, "That's a very puzzling statement. Are you implying that I'm deliberately hiding something?"
Long Feiyun... He closed his eyes, then opened them again after a long while, as if he had made a great decision, and said in a deep voice, "Nine Heavens Profound Sky Sword, Vast Azure Snow-Treading Armor, and Supreme Clarity Tiger Tally—do you want one of them, or all of them?"
Ren Xiaoyao was first taken aback, then laughed and cried at the same time, panting, "Hall Master Long...Hall Master Long thinks I...I'm after the Three Treasures of Heaven?"
Long Feiyun's face was ashen, and he said solemnly, "Isn't that so?"
Ren Xiaoyao laughed loudly, casually tossing the Ice Soul Frost Sword to Long Feiyun, and said indifferently, "The Nine Heavens Profound Sky Sword is indeed your sect's number one divine weapon, but it seems slightly inferior to mine; the Vast Azure Snow-Treading Armor, though a sword and spear..." "I won't use it, but it probably won't be of much use to someone like me who's skilled in flying immortals; as for the Taiqing Tiger Tally... hahaha, it's true that it can mobilize the Song Dynasty army, but what would a martial artist like me need an army for?"
Long Feiyun stared intently at Ren Xiaoyao, incredulously asking, "Young Master Ren, is this really true?"
Ren Xiaoyao puffed out his chest, proudly declaring, "Who in the world doesn't know that I, Ren Xiaoyao, never go back on my word?"
Long Feiyun muttered to himself, "Hmm, you certainly have no reason to steal the three treasures. Could it be that my father told me to be wary of someone else?"
Ren Xiaoyao's heart skipped a beat, and he pressed on, "What, did Sect Leader Long tell you..." "Does someone covet the Three Treasures of Heaven?"
Long Feiyun pondered, "Before my father left, he solemnly entrusted me with the key to the treasure vault, specifically instructing me to protect them no matter the cost... especially the safety of the Taiqing Tiger Seal. After much thought, I felt that no one but you, 'Romantic Thief,' could dare to steal treasures from our sect, so I have been keeping a close eye on your whereabouts."
Ren Xiaoyao asked doubtfully, "Since Hall Master Long knows so much about my situation, he should know that Ren Xiaoyao is not the kind of greedy, despicable person, so why..." He stopped abruptly halfway through his sentence, his gaze fixed intently on Long Feiyun.
Long Feiyun smiled wryly, "At first I hesitated too, but as soon as the martial arts tournament ended, you came to Xunfeng City with several confidantes in a grand manner. Anyone would have suspected your true purpose for coming here."
Ren Xiaoyao pressed, "What else did the Dragon Master say to you before he left?"
Long Feiyun recalled, "Father repeatedly instructed that I must not leave the headquarters before he returns. Any movement of more than thirty followers must be approved by letter. All other matters must be discussed with my four uncles, Liu, Zhu, Liu, and Qin. I must not act unilaterally."
Ren Xiaoyao asked again, "Besides you, who else heard the Dragon Master's words?"
Long Feiyun was completely confused and said, "How..." "Well, Young Master Ren seems quite interested in this."
Ren Xiaoyao smiled and said, "If Hall Master Long suspects me, others will naturally do too. Although Hall Master Long now believes I am innocent, others may not."
Long Feiyun leaned closer, almost whispering, "This was all instructed by my father in private; no one else knows. Young Master Ren need not worry about affecting your reputation."
Hearing Long Yinxiao's private message, Ren Xiaoyao felt a chill in his heart, but he did not show it on his face. He said in a deep voice, "Hall Master Long is well-versed in martial arts anecdotes and Jianghu history. In your opinion, besides me, who else would dare to come to your sect to steal the treasure?"
Long Feiyun sighed, "Alas, if I wanted to obtain it from others, I wouldn't have been wronged." "Brother Ren, you've been wronged."
Ren Xiaoyao pondered for a moment, then slowly said, "A few individuals alone might not have this ability, but if it were an organization..."
Long Feiyun interrupted with heroic spirit, "Not to boast, but with the strength of our sect, if we wanted to defend the inner altar and ensure the Three Treasures were not lost, even if the Asura Sect and the Absolute Kill Sect were to mobilize their entire forces, they wouldn't be able to do it."
Ren Xiaoyao looked up at Long Feiyun, his eyes becoming unfathomable, and lowered his voice, "Since Sect Leader Long isn't referring to an external enemy, then it can only be an internal traitor."
Long Feiyun suddenly stood up and shouted, "Absolutely impossible! The hall masters are all my father's sworn brothers. They followed Emperor Taizu and Emperor Taizong in their campaigns, risking their lives, and witnessed our sect's..." From an unknown martial arts organization to the number one sect in the world with 100,000 members, no one would believe they intended to betray them.
Ren Xiaoyao asked solemnly, "Then what is the purpose of Sect Leader Long's repeated instructions to you to guard the treasure?"

(Chapter 7: Reconciliation)

Long Feiyun composed himself, pondered for a moment, and softly said, "Perhaps Father is too cautious, or perhaps he still doesn't trust me as his son."
Ren Xiaoyao thought to himself: With limited information at hand, drawing a conclusion is extremely difficult. He should go back and discuss it with his third brother to see if he has discovered any important information. He then rose to take his leave.
Long Feiyun, with a solemn expression and earnest words, said, "I was momentarily unaware and misunderstood Brother Ren's true intentions in coming to Xunfeng City. If I have offended you in any way, I hope Brother Ren will not take offense."
Ren Xiaoyao cupped his hands and said, "Not at all, not at all... Hall Master Long sent someone to deliver the map to me with good intentions. I, Xiaoyao, overestimated myself and broke into the Qilin Hall at night. I should apologize to your esteemed sect."
The two looked at each other and smiled, burying the hatchet, and at the same time felt a sense of regret for not having met sooner.
Long Feiyun escorted him to the door, then looked up at the bright moon and said, seemingly casually, "I've heard that the dashing thief can transform into countless incarnations, his disguise skills are unparalleled. If I have the time someday, I'll certainly like to learn a thing or two from him."
Ren Xiaoyao replied indifferently, "Heh, mere trifles, not worth mentioning."
Long Feiyun smiled meaningfully, "Young Master Ren is too modest. I happen to have some knowledge in this area myself. Why do
n't we find an opportunity to spar?" Ren Xiaoyao, with his back to Long Feiyun, maintained his carefree demeanor and said casually, "Master Long's request for a spar is just an excuse; he really wants to make up for not being able to stop me from entering the Qilin Hall tonight, isn't it?
" Fei Yun smiled mischievously and teased, "Young Master Ren, you wouldn't refuse to give him even a chance, would you?"
Ren Xiaoyao turned around like a whirlwind, his eyes flashing with light, and slowly said, word by word, "Please let Hall Master Long decide the time, place, and method."
Long Fei Yun said without hesitation, "Tomorrow at Shen Shi (3-5 PM), at the Wufu Teahouse in the south of the city. We'll each disguise ourselves and go there. Whoever is recognized first will pay for the tea."
Ren Xiaoyao nodded happily, then pretended to be serious and said, "Hall Master Long, rest assured, I will definitely go in person. However… as for the money, I might not bring it."
Long Fei Yun laughed heartily, "Brother Ren, if the innkeeper confiscates it, don't blame me."
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
When they returned to the inn, Ye Zhi Qiu was already waiting in the room. As soon as he saw Ren Xiaoyao return, he immediately went to greet him.
"Did you find anything?" The two spoke almost simultaneously, both showing dejected expressions.
Ye Zhi Qiu sighed, "Everything is normal on the outer altar, there are no abnormalities. Although Liu Ning Tao and Zhu Shun Wu are still not asleep, they are only handling routine teaching affairs, and there are no emergencies."
Ren Xiao Yao's expression gradually became solemn, and he said in a deep voice, "I do sense some signs of impending chaos, but the details are too complicated, and it is difficult to make a judgment without more detailed information." As he spoke, he relayed the contents of his conversation with Long Fei Yun to Ye Zhi Qiu in detail.
Ye Zhi Qiu's eyes first flashed with a strange light, then he said with a look of surprise, "Long Yin Xiao's words to his son clearly implied that there was a traitor within the Heavenly Pole Sect, yet Long Fei Yun actually suspected you. This is so out of character for him."
Ren Xiao Yao remarked with feeling, "The observer sees more of the game than the player. When things get involved, even the most brilliant mind can hardly see the full extent of the danger. I just mentioned the word 'traitor,' and he flew into a rage. How could I say anything more?" Ye Zhi Qiu agreed, "As the saying goes, 'A leaf before the eyes obscures Mount Tai.' No wonder even someone as intelligent as Long Fei Yun can't see the current situation."
Ren Xiao Yao's expression turned solemn, and he frowned, saying, "It's a pity that Sect Leader Long's words are too vague... " "It's too confusing; we can't possibly identify who he's referring to. We have no choice but to remain in Xunfeng City, continue our investigation, and do our best to prevent this disaster."
Ye Zhi Qiu asked, "What should we do next?"
Ren Xiaoyao pondered for a moment, then said, "Befriend Long Feiyun and find a way to infiltrate the Tianji Sect. I refuse to believe such a massive conspiracy won't leave a trace."
Ye Zhi Qiu said solemnly, "I'll send people to keep an eye on the hall masters first, and we'll discuss countermeasures after my elder brothers arrive."
Ren Xiaoyao returned to his usual self, grinning, "Let's put in some effort and try to resolve this as soon as possible."
Ye Zhi Qiu understood his implication and said with boundless pride, "That's right, so my elder brothers won't have to worry about this."
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
Xunfeng City was, after all, the headquarters of the Tianji Sect. Even with Ren Xiaoyao's unparalleled confidence, he dared not be careless. Just after 3:45 PM, he cautiously arrived at the competition venue.
Ever since hearing Nangong Fengyi discuss the art of tea at the Lakeside Pavilion, Ren Xiaoyao had developed a particular fondness for pre-rain Longjing tea. While the pre-rain Longjing at Wufu Teahouse wasn't quite as good as that at Xianlexuan, it was still considered excellent. Paired with several specially made tea snacks, it was truly delicious.
Sitting at the table directly opposite the entrance, Ren Xiaoyao poured himself a drink with great interest. His appearance—a handsome young scholar with refined features—was quite striking; every customer entering the teahouse turned to glance at him. As the saying goes, "play hard to get," the more attention he attracted, the less suspicion he would arouse.
Ren Xiaoyao was pondering what Long Feiyun would disguise himself in when several rather distinctive guests entered: an elderly man with a full head of white hair, a portly middle-aged merchant, a burly Shandong man with a full beard, and a refined young scholar who looked just like himself.
Even the most exquisite disguise has its flaws. For example, when using a human skin mask, there will always be a fine line at the seam between the sideburns and the hair bun. This can usually be concealed with makeup, but it's never perfect. If you mix glue, honey, flour, and plaster and apply it directly, the distance between the eyebrows cannot be changed, and the facial expression will be stiff. The most ingenious trick is to create a hideous appearance, preferably with a few scars added. This way, no one will want to look at you directly, and you won't have to worry about being exposed.
Ren Xiaoyao was about to step forward to investigate when he suddenly realized that Long Feiyun might be hiding in the shadows. With his intelligence, if he made any inappropriate move, his identity would definitely be exposed, so he had to give up for the time being.

Volume Seventeen: Heavily Guarded, Thousands of People in Attire, Chapter Eight: Teahouse Showdown.

Sitting and waiting for death was not in Ren Xiaoyao's nature. Even if he couldn't go forward to observe, he could make a preliminary judgment based on the four people's posture as they walked. After drinking half a pot of tea, he couldn't help but frown. The old man, the merchant, the burly man, and the scholar all acted in accordance with their identities and ages, without any abnormalities. No matter how skilled Long Feiyun was at disguise, he couldn't possibly impersonate them so perfectly.
The Wufu Teahouse was indeed doing brisk business; the twenty-odd tables were almost full before late afternoon. Ren Xiaoyao's gaze never left the entrance, and he still couldn't find anyone suspicious.
Looking at the water clock in the corner, Ren Xiaoyao wondered to himself, "Is Long Feiyun not coming? Is he not confident of defeating me, or is he too busy with teaching duties to come?"
At this moment, a couple walked into the teahouse arm in arm. The man was calm and composed, with an ancient-style sword hanging at his waist. His skin was even whiter and smoother than a girl's, yet he didn't have any effeminate air. It was clear at a glance that he was no ordinary person.
As for the girl holding his hand, even Ren Xiaoyao, who was used to seeing beautiful women, was captivated by her unparalleled beauty. She wore a light pink silk blouse and a white skirt with blue flowers, a jade belt around her waist, and her hair was tied up in a beautiful bun on her head, flowing like clouds and waterfalls, adorned with jade hairpins that danced freely in the air. Her pretty face was lightly powdered, which further accentuated her delicate and beautiful features, especially her eyes, which were captivating and radiant, enough to bewitch any man's soul. She was in no way inferior to the stunning beauties of the Nangong sisters, Shui Furong, or Lin Yuxiu.
Everyone in the shop was drawn to the two of them, and they all exclaimed, "A perfect match, a match made in heaven!"
Ren Xiaoyao barely managed to calm himself down, glancing back at the water clock. Seeing that the sign pointed to the Shen hour (3-5 PM), his heart skipped a beat.
The waiter hurriedly stepped forward to greet them, "Sir...sir, please...please come in." If Ren Xiaoyao was so captivated, how much more so would an ordinary man who had never seen the world?
The man smiled and nodded, then walked past Ren Xiaoyao's table arm in arm with his lover.
Everyone has an appreciation for beauty, especially the self-proclaimed charming Ren Xiaoyao. As the fragrant breeze wafted into his nostrils, he naturally raised his head, his gaze falling upon the stunningly beautiful woman who was not yet twenty.
Her figure was tall and well-proportioned, her movements graceful and languid, her beauty captivating. Below her eyes were full, bright red cherry lips, often brimming with a smile. When her lips parted, two adorable dimples naturally appeared on her cheeks, her long, slender neck revealing snow-white skin, emphasizing her beautiful curves, utterly alluring.
"It's a pity she's already taken, and I can't bring myself to steal her away, otherwise..." The thought had barely crossed Ren Xiaoyao's mind when the beauty suddenly stopped, pointing with her slender hand, she said sweetly, "Brother Liu, let's sit here."
Brother Liu said softly, "Yun'er, this table is already taken, let's go somewhere else."
Yun'er turned her pretty face away, her jewel-like eyes sparkling like stars in the night sky, her gaze fixed on the teacup Ren Xiaoyao held aloft in his left hand. "Brother," she said softly, "you don't mind if we sit and drink with you, do you?"
Ren Xiaoyao feigned surprise, his tone slightly stiff and stilted, as if he were a scholar, and said, "Of course...of course not. To be able to drink tea with a young lady is...is a blessing I've accumulated over several lifetimes."
While Yun'er impressed him, she wasn't breathtakingly beautiful. But given his current identity as a well-versed, somewhat pedantic scholar, such a reaction was perfectly normal.
Yun'er chuckled sweetly, her breath warm against Brother Liu's ear, "See? Everyone says it's fine. Hurry up and sit down." Her charming and radiant beauty captivated everyone present.
Ren Xiaoyao's attention naturally focused on Brother Liu, as he was very likely Long Feiyun in disguise. Besides this young master who temporarily held power in the Tianji Sect, who else would dare or be worthy to wander alone in a bustling teahouse with a stunningly beautiful young woman?
The two sat on either side of Ren Xiaoyao, ordering a pot of premium Tieguanyin tea. From their exchanged glances and tender, considerate gestures, it was almost certain that regardless of their true identities, their romantic relationship was genuine.
Ren Xiaoyao pondered to himself, if Brother Liu, as Yun'er described, was truly Long Feiyun, would he need to use a woman to conceal his true identity? Besides, doing so might not arouse suspicion from others, but how could it escape Ren Xiaoyao's sharp eyes? However, all the other customers who had come to the shop earlier had been ruled out; besides Brother Liu, who else could be Long Feiyun?
Last night, before leaving, Ren Xiaoyao had paid special attention to the gap between Long Feiyun's eyebrows, and at first glance, he felt it was slightly wider than Brother Liu's. So, taking advantage of the waiter's break while serving tea and snacks, he leaned slightly to observe Brother Liu's temples and hairline, looking for any traces of a human skin mask.
Just then, Yun'er suddenly cried out, dropping her teacup and shattering it on the floor.
"Yun'er, are you alright?" Brother Liu abruptly stood up, asking with great concern.
If Ren Xiaoyao leaned forward, he could still see clearly, but his identity would be exposed, so he had no choice but to retreat.
"No...it's nothing, I just got burned by the tea," Yun'er returned Brother Liu's affectionate gaze, smiling sweetly.
Seeing her slightly reddened lips, Ren Xiaoyao didn't suspect anything amiss, secretly pondering how to create another opportunity.
A short while later, the waiter emerged from the tea room carrying the Biluochun tea ordered by the customers at the next table. His route inevitably led him past Young Master Liu. Ren Xiaoyao was secretly delighted. He channeled the true energy of his "Flick of the Finger" technique and thrust it into the waiter's "Yanggu" acupoint on the inside of his knee.
Years ago, when he infiltrated Tingyu Pavilion, he had used the same method to deal with Nangong Tiankuo without fail; how could he possibly fail with a mere servant who knew no martial arts? If the teapot overturned near Young Master Liu, he would surely dodge, and then Ren Xiaoyao could pretend to be a kind stranger and help him up—
how could he not see it? "Waiter, there's water on the table!" a customer at a table in the corner suddenly shouted.
"Sir, let me wipe it for you." The waiter, carrying the Biluochun, immediately turned and headed straight for the corner.

Volume Seventeen, Heavily Guarded, Chapter Nine: Heartfelt Admiration. Ren

Xiaoyao's face turned pale with fright. He had calculated the timing of his internal energy's activation meticulously. If the customer disturbed him, everything would be ruined. If Long Feiyun, who was secretly watching, saw this, he might find some clue and discover his true identity, which would be a huge loss. Fortunately, he was wearing a human skin mask, so his expression wouldn't immediately show. Otherwise, that alone would be enough to ruin his entire plan.
"Waiter, may I ask which is the most famous academy in Xunfeng City?" Ren Xiaoyao stood up and stopped the waiter, asking in a friendly tone. If the waiter answered, he could thank him and take the opportunity to dispel the internal energy within him.
"Sir, I'm new here and don't know much," the waiter said with a smile. "You should ask someone else… Ouch!" Just as Ren Xiaoyao inwardly cried out in alarm, the waiter's knees buckled, and he almost fell over, the scalding tea slipping from the tray and spilling onto his sleeve.
Ren Xiaoyao's toes wobbled slightly, about to dodge, when he suddenly remembered his identity as a scholar unfamiliar with martial arts. He couldn't possibly dodge too gracefully, so he had no choice but to stop abruptly, letting the tea splash all over him. He had internal energy protecting him, so he wasn't afraid of being burned, but the scene was still quite embarrassing.
"Sir, I... I was careless for a moment, please forgive me." The waiter hurriedly put down the tray, wanting to wipe Ren Xiaoyao's sleeves, but looking at his snow-white robe and then at the black rag in his hand, he froze on the spot, not knowing what to do.
A sudden inspiration struck Ren Xiaoyao. He turned around and politely said to Brother Liu, "Young Master Liu, we are all scholars. For the sake of Confucius, could I borrow your handkerchief?"
Brother Liu smiled without answering, but Yun'er took out a brocade handkerchief and said sweetly, "Young Master, please use mine. Brother Liu is a casual person and rarely carries handkerchiefs."
Ren Xiaoyao said apprehensively, "The ancients said, 'Men and women should not touch each other, it is proper etiquette.' This is a personal item of yours, how could I dare accept it?"
Yun'er shrugged slightly, seemingly casually saying, "We people of the martial world take worldly etiquette lightly. Please, Young Master, make yourself at home." Since she
had said that much, it would be somewhat pretentious for Ren Xiaoyao to refuse again. So he accepted the handkerchief and said respectfully, "Thank you for your help, Miss. I am deeply grateful." In his heart, he wondered if it was all a coincidence, or if Young Master Liu was already wary of him.
Should he continue to test him or give up now?
Ren Xiaoyao quickly made up his mind. Since he had failed several times, he couldn't give up now; otherwise, it would be contrary to his persistent and unwavering style.
Taking advantage of the opportunity to return the handkerchief, he began to probe: "You two are a perfect match, a truly beautiful couple. I imagine your family backgrounds are quite extraordinary. I'm new to Xunfeng City, and I hope you'll guide me in the future."
Brother Liu's eyes brightened, and he smiled, "My father is just a small businessman, but Yun'er..."
Yun'er said with a slight reproach, "Brother Liu, don't gossip about me."
Brother Liu said softly, "Alright, alright, I won't say anything... Come, let's have some tea."
Ren Xiaoyao's heart skipped a beat. In conversations between lovers, the term "brother" is usually used by the woman, and the man rarely addresses himself that way. If Brother Liu's words weren't a slip of the tongue, there must be something fishy going on.
Thinking of this, he paid even closer attention to Brother Liu's actions, noticing that Yun'er was the one who poured tea, handed him water, and fetched pastries, rarely doing it herself. If he wasn't comfortable being too intimate with his lover in public, he shouldn't have relied on Yun'er for care. Considering he'd never heard anyone mention Long Feiyun being with any girl, he boldly speculated that if Brother Liu really was Long Feiyun, Yun'er was likely the daughter of a high-ranking figure in the Heavenly Pole Sect. Although she liked Long Feiyun, he might not reciprocate her feelings, so she wanted to take advantage of accompanying him today to make a good impression.
Whether his idea was correct or not, the key lay with Yun'er.
Ren Xiaoyao, his face filled with longing, cupped his hands and said, "Although I am a scholar, I have heard of the Heavenly Pole Sect's renowned reputation in the martial world and greatly admire it. You two have lived here for a long time and must know much; could you perhaps explain a few things to me?"
Brother Liu smiled and asked, "What kind of content would you like to hear, brother?"
Ren Xiaoyao almost blurted out, "Of course, it's about Long Feiyun," but thankfully he stopped himself, saying somewhat awkwardly, "This… I don't know much about that either. Young Master Liu, please tell me about things that interest us scholars."
Yun'er readily agreed, "The Great Song Dynasty was founded on martial prowess, and the Heavenly Pole Sect governs its people through martial arts. Literature and poetry are not their forte, but Liu Ningtao, the White Tiger Hall Master, 'Surging Wave Swordsman,' is skilled in composing lyrics, including various long and short forms such as 'Ling,' 'Yin,' 'Jin,' 'Man,' 'Single, Double,' 'Three,' 'Four,' and so on." " He is proficient in everything, yet knowledgeable in everything, and was hailed as a Confucian general by Emperor Taizong."
Ren Xiaoyao said, moved, "Hall Master Liu is skilled in both literature and martial arts, and must be a role model for everyone in the Heavenly Pole Sect."
Yun'er couldn't help but interject, "Speaking of being skilled in both literature and martial arts, Hall Master Liu may not be as good as Hall Master Long."
Ren Xiaoyao pretended to be ignorant and said, "Hall Master Long? Which Hall Master Long? I've never heard of him before."
Yun'er glanced at Brother Liu with deep affection and said sweetly, "Hall Master Long's surname is Long, and his given name is Feiyun. He is the eldest son of the sect leader and currently serves as the deputy hall master of the Qilin Hall, also in charge of sect affairs. Every girl in Xunfeng City considers it an honor to have his eye on her."
Ren Xiaoyao thought to himself that he had finally given himself away and was considering whether he should expose him immediately when the guest at the next table suddenly slipped and fell towards where Brother Liu was sitting as he got up to leave.
"There's water on the ground, be careful." Ren Xiaoyao quickly got up and helped the guest up.
"Thank you, brother." Brother Liu bowed in thanks, and as he turned, his temples brushed against Ren Xiaoyao's face, almost touching. Though it was only a fleeting moment, the seams left by the human skin mask beneath his hair were clearly visible.
"Hall Master Long, you can pay for the tea, no need for thanks." Ren Xiaoyao patted Brother Liu's shoulder and laughed heartily.
"Hall Master Long...? Brother, what are you saying?" Brother Liu asked in astonishment.
Ren Xiaoyao's smile vanished, and he pressed, "Hall Master Long, there's no need to hide it. Although you wear a human skin mask, you can't fool my eyes."
Brother Liu stood silently for a moment, finally revealing a smile of genuine admiration.
Just then, a pair of slender, delicate hands silently reached towards Ren Xiaoyao's clothes.

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