Cold Fragrance Valley [Complete] - 7

page views:1 Publication date:2023-03-24

Chapter Seven: Mastering His Skills and Emerging from the Mountains

. Lan Tianpeng was startled and leaped out of the door almost simultaneously with Ouyang Zi. He immediately looked at Madam Ouyang and said urgently, "Nephew, that voice sounds like that young man in yellow, Bai Yufu."

Ouyang Zi said confidently, "It can't be him."

Lan Tianpeng exclaimed in surprise, "You know him?" Just then, another powerful and resonant whistle pierced the air.

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Zi's expression changed again, and she hurriedly said, "Mother, I'll go to Nanshan to take a look?" As soon as she uttered the word "look," she leaped onto a jagged rock and sped off due south.

Seeing this, Lan Tianpeng also blurted out, "Brother Ouyang, I'll go with you." As soon as he uttered the word "go," he was already in the air, chasing after Ouyang Zi. From this leap, Madam Ouyang already knew that Lan Tianpeng's agility was superior to Ouyang Zi's. Lan Tianpeng leaped into the air, then pounced on a rock, and caught up with Ouyang Zi. The two leaped over a dozen jagged boulders, soared into the pine forest, and raced along the branches towards the northern foot of the South Peak.

The two long howls had ceased, but their echoes lingered in the night sky, swirling among the peaks. Reaching the foot of the South Peak, they flew straight to its summit. Because Ouyang Zi's expression was solemn and she had no intention of speaking, Lan Tianpeng remained silent as well. Just as they were ascending, the clear, long howl rang out again, this time from the southwest, seemingly not too far away. Upon hearing it, Ouyang Zi immediately pointed to the saddle where the two peaks connected in the southwest, then turned and sped off again in the direction from which the howl had originated.

Lan Tianpeng, dressed in tattered clothes that fluttered in the wind, resembling a beggar, turned to catch up with Ouyang Zi, asking with concern, "Brother Ouyang, are you sure that clear whistle wasn't from Brother Bai Yufu?"

Ouyang Zi's tone changed again. He pointed to the saddle about ten feet away and said, "Let's go take a look first; perhaps it's him."

Lan Tianpeng asked with concern, "Brother Ouyang, do you know him?"

Ouyang Zi replied vaguely, "I've met him once or twice."

Lan Tianpeng reminded him, "Didn't you invite him?"

Ouyang Zi shook his head solemnly and said, "He doesn't know I live on Tiantai." As soon as he finished speaking, the clear, long whistle stopped, but the powerful whistle echoed back, seemingly from a distant direction due south. Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng asked with concern, "Brother Ouyang, don't you think that long howl was a warning signal from Ouyang Mude?"

Ouyang Zi shook his head and said, "I sent him off to do other things; he's already left Tiantai." As they spoke, the two reached the saddle between the two peaks and hid behind a rock. Looking around, they saw the peaks of Nanshan rising and falling, their verdant forests shimmering white under the bright moonlight of mid-month,

a scene of pristine beauty. The waning moon of the eighteenth day, though nearing dawn, still hung high in the sky. At this moment, the powerful, long howl, brimming with inner strength and high-pitched, grew closer and clearer. Suddenly, Lan Tianpeng's eyes lit up, and he immediately nudged Ouyang Zi beside him, whispering, "Brother Ouyang, look! It's coming!" He pointed to a precipitous cliff more than a hundred feet to the south.

Following Lan Tianpeng's direction, Ouyang Zi saw a short, gray figure speeding along the steep, precipitous cliff towards a towering peak to the southwest. Lan Tianpeng deduced that the person who had just uttered the clear whistle was likely on that peak. He focused his gaze, exclaimed softly, and froze.

On the smooth, protruding rock of that peak stood a figure—the handsome young man in blue robes whom he had met at the Chenxi Cheng Restaurant. Having recognized the handsome young man in blue, the small, gray figure rushing towards the peak was undoubtedly the thin, gray-clad old man whom the handsome young man called "Uncle Yan Qi." Looking again at the fast-moving gray figure, it was indeed the thin, gray-clad old man with piercing eyes. As he was looking around, Ouyang Zi bumped his right arm forcefully, whispering angrily, "What's so interesting? You're staring so intently you don't even answer when I talk to you." Startled

, Lan Tianpeng quickly composed himself and whispered, "Brother Ouyang, did you see that?" Before he could finish, Ouyang Zi retorted unhappily, "I saw it a long time ago, do you need to tell me?"

Lan Tianpeng was stunned, realizing he had been so engrossed in his observation that he hadn't paid attention to Ouyang Zi, thus angering her. This made it increasingly likely that Ouyang Zi was a girl, because boys wouldn't be so petty. However, Lan Tianpeng didn't show it on his face. Instead, he smiled apologetically and said, "I saw this young man in the sapphire blue robe at Chengnan Lake. And that old man in gray is no ordinary person either."

Ouyang Zi's expression had softened considerably by now. He immediately nodded and said, "I've also seen them, master and servant."

Lan Tianpeng asked, puzzled, "Strange, what are they doing here?" He paused, then suddenly seemed to realize something and asked, "Brother Ouyang, have you fought with them and formed a grudge?"

Ouyang Zi shook his head and said, "Although we've met twice, we haven't spoken, let alone fought." As he spoke, the thin, gray-robed old man was already in front of the handsome young man in the blue robe. The two nodded and gestured, then looked around the entire mountain, clearly looking for something. Upon seeing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately said in a deep voice, "Let me go and ask them." With that, he turned to leave.

Just as he was about to leave, Ouyang Zi reached out and grabbed his wrist, whispering, "Absolutely do not meet them." Lan Tianpeng was taken aback, utterly confused, and forgot what was unusual about Ouyang Zi's hand on his wrist. He asked, puzzled, "Why can't we meet them?"

Ouyang Zi replied without hesitation, "My father passed away here, and no one in the martial world knows. If these two discover us and find out that my mother and I are living in seclusion here, it will surely cause a lot of trouble." Lan Tianpeng, upon hearing this, felt it made perfect sense and immediately nodded. He then hid behind the rock again, but still asked with concern, "What if they come and find us?"

Ouyang Zi shook her head and said, "They can't possibly find us, because these three..." "The peak is surrounded by deep ravines and sheer cliffs, with only one place nearby, but even that's seven or eight zhang away..."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng suddenly remembered and couldn't help but interject, "Is it the ancient wooden bridge I crossed earlier?"

Ouyang Zi nodded and said, "That's right, it was transformed from an ancient tree that was over ten zhang tall."

Lan Tianpeng asked with concern, "What if they find that ancient wooden bridge and come over?"

Ouyang Zi smiled coldly and said, "Then they can forget about leaving Tiantai Mountain alive. And given their current position, unless they have wings on their backs, they won't be able to get over."

Lan Tianpeng turned his head and saw the handsome young man in blue robes looking around the entire mountain, appearing very anxious, while the old man in gray robes stared intently at the handsome young man in blue robes. Suddenly, the handsome young man in blue robes raised his head again and let out a long, clear whistle! The whistle was clear and resonant, shaking the mountains and fields, its sound soaring straight to the sky, instantly filling the entire mountain. Lan Tianpeng was startled upon hearing this, and his gaze shifted upon Ouyang Zi's handsome face. He whispered, "This young man's internal energy is incredibly refined."

However, Ouyang Zi replied with a hint of disdain, "Surrounded by a precipice, in the silent morning air, let alone a martial artist's long howl, even a woodcutter's cough can travel two or three miles."

Lan Tianpeng felt there was some truth to this, but he sensed a rift between Ouyang Zi and the handsome young man in blue. Having this feeling, he refrained from saying anything further, silently watching the gray-robed old man and the handsome young man in blue on the other side of the cliff. Upon hearing the howl, the handsome young man in blue immediately focused his attention, seemingly responding to someone he was looking for, or perhaps observing some movement. After a brief pause, the gray-robed old man respectfully spoke a few words to the handsome young man in blue.

The handsome young man in blue remained silent for a moment, then nodded in disappointment, resolutely turned, and sped away along the sloping cliff from which the gray-robed old man had come. The old man in gray shook his head helplessly and also used his lightness skill to give chase—the two moved with incredible speed, as swift as arrows, disappearing into the pre-dawn darkness in the blink of an eye. Ouyang Zi, seeing this, immediately turned to look at Lan Tianpeng, smiled reassuringly, and said, "Let's go back."

Lan Tianpeng smiled and nodded, then he and Ouyang Zi used their lightness skills to dash towards the jagged rocks, their movements as swift as shooting stars! They leaped over the pine forest, stepping on the rocks, and from afar, they could see Madam Ouyang, Sister-in-law Mude, and their four maids still standing in the garden in front of the Li Pavilion. However, on a lush lawn, an incense table had been added, and behind the incense burner seemed to be a bundle, and the other item was the "Colorful Silver Rainbow Sword."

By this time, dawn had broken, and the lights in the houses and buildings near the Li Pavilion were extinguished, except for a long building among the jagged rocks on the north side of the garden, where a light was still on. Clearly, that long building was the boudoir of the quiet and reserved Miss Ouyang. In the blink of an eye, the two arrived at the garden and leaped down together. Madam Ouyang, smiling with concern, asked first, "Who made that whistling sound?"

Ouyang Zi quickly replied, "It was that young man in blue robes I met before, and his old servant." Madam Ouyang exclaimed "Hmm!" upon hearing this, then froze. Seeing this, Lan Tianpeng deduced that either Ouyang Zi and the handsome young man in blue robes were suspicious of each other, or the young man in blue robes was someone of considerable importance. Before he could finish his thought, Madam Ouyang muttered to herself, "What are they doing here?"

Lan Tianpeng immediately chimed in, "It seems they're looking for someone or something."

Madam Ouyang blurted out again, "Looking for someone? Looking for whom?"

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Zi immediately said impatiently, "They're already gone. What do we care what they were doing? The incense table is already set up, isn't it? Let's complete the ceremony of presenting clothes and swords to Brother Peng."

These words reminded Madam Ouyang, who immediately looked at Sister-in-law Mu De and urged, "Bring the incense."

Lan Tianpeng, seeing this, immediately... Lan Tianpeng said in a flustered voice, "Aunt, I feel a great responsibility..." Before he could finish, Madam Ouyang interrupted, explaining, "These are my late husband's last words, and I must follow his will."

Lan Tianpeng still felt uneasy and said, "I think Brother Ouyang's swordsmanship is superb, and his intelligence is exceptional..." Before he could finish, Madam Ouyang interrupted again, "You only see his martial arts side. You must know he has another side; otherwise, my late husband wouldn't have gone to such lengths, remaining depressed until his death." As she spoke, her expression darkened, and tears welled in her eyes.

Seeing this, Lan Tianpeng knew there must be a hidden reason; otherwise, why would Madam Ouyang be so agitated, almost to the point of tears? Looking at Ouyang Zi, whose expression was complex and who remained silent with her head bowed, he was even more puzzled. Seeing the mother and son so grief-stricken, he naturally couldn't refuse any longer. At this moment, Sister-in-law Mude brought incense and respectfully presented it to Madam Ouyang. Madam Ouyang accepted the four incense sticks. She walked to the incense table, facing the direction of the South Peak Cave, her expression serene, and knelt on the prayer mat.

Ouyang Zi, Sister-in-law Mu De, and the four maids each knelt in their respective places, facing the direction of the cave. Everyone's expression was extremely sorrowful, and Ouyang Zi also had tears in her eyes. Lan Tianpeng knew that this was a family memorial service, and his sword-granting ceremony would come later, so he slowly stepped to the side and stood respectfully with his hands at his sides. Madam Ouyang, holding four incense sticks, looked up at the direction of the cave and said sadly in a low voice, "Brother Yan, now your wish has finally been fulfilled. Peng'er is not only exceptionally skilled in martial arts, but also exceptionally kind-hearted. After he inherits your body, he will surely make up for the regrets of our lives. May your spirit in heaven bless the two children." After saying this, she lit the incense, bowed her head, looked up, and then stood up.

Madam Ouyang immediately looked at Lan Tianpeng, her solemn expression tinged with affection, and said, "Peng'er, I now wish to pass on my late husband's clothes and precious sword to you, hoping that you will inherit his will, uphold justice in the martial world, and bring glory to our two families. As for my late husband's character, I'm sure you already know it, so I won't elaborate. You can tell him how you should act in the future, but you must be sincere and not deceitful." As she spoke, she picked up a small bundle from the incense table, and Sister-in-law Mude quickly took the "Colorful Silver Rainbow Sword" and placed it on the bundle.

Upon seeing this, Lan Tianpeng hurriedly went to the incense table, faced the cave, knelt on the prayer mat, clasped his hands in front of his chest, and looked up at the sky with reverence, saying respectfully, "Disciple Lan Tianpeng respectfully informs the spirit of Senior Ouyang that, having inherited his mantle and sword, I will follow in his footsteps to bring blessings to the people, seek peace for the martial world, and sincerely work with Brother Ouyang Zi to build the Ouyang family and make it famous throughout the world. If I have any disloyalty or disloyalty, may the gods bear witness and I die a violent death in the desolate mountains..."

Before he could finish speaking, Madam Ouyang said in a tearful voice, "Child, you've spoken too harshly. Please get up quickly." As she spoke, she placed the small package and the sword in Lan Tianpeng's hands and made a gesture to help him up.

Lan Tianpeng took the small package and the "Colorful Silver Rainbow Sword," bowed four times, and stood up at Madam Ouyang's respectful gesture. Upon seeing this, Sister-in-law Mude hurried over and took the small package and the sword from him. Lan Tianpeng turned his head and saw Ouyang Zi, her head bowed, tears streaming down her face. A thought struck him; he deduced that Ouyang Zi must be grieving over not being able to inherit her father's mantle. He quickly walked to her and took her soft hands in his. This time, Ouyang Zi did not flinch, allowing Lan Tianpeng to hold them.

Lan Tianpeng said, "Brother Ouyang, you are two years older than me, so you are my senior. Rest assured, from now on, you will be in charge of all important decisions, and I will absolutely comply. I hope we can be loyal to each other and work together for the happiness of humanity."

Ouyang Zi said softly, "As long as you keep your promise, even unto death, I will be at peace."

Lan Tianpeng's brow furrowed. He finally understood why the "Silver-Clad Swordsman" and Madam Ouyang hadn't passed the mantle to Ouyang Zi—it was because of her somewhat girlish nature. He resolved to find out whether Ouyang Zi was a man or a woman. With a quick change of heart, he immediately smiled and said in a reassuring voice, "Brother Ouyang, rest assured, a man's word is his bond. Even if a cauldron of boiling oil were before me, I would not go

back on my word." Madam Ouyang, standing nearby, quickly smiled warmly and said, "It's getting light now. Your brother Peng hasn't had a proper rest for two days and two nights. Let's talk this afternoon." Having said that, she turned to Mu De's wife and instructed, "Take the clothes and sword to the pavilion and carefully assist Young Master Lan in bathing and changing."

Seeing that Lan Tianpeng was still staring at Ouyang Zi, his hands still clasped tightly,

Mu De's wife quickly smiled and said, "Young Master Lan, please." Lan Tianpeng had no choice but to release Ouyang Zi's hands, bowed to Madam Ouyang, and followed Mu De's wife into the elegant pavilion, with two maids following behind him. By this time, the leftover food in the hall had been cleared away. Guided by Mu De's wife, he went directly to the elegant pavilion. The pavilion was elegantly furnished, with two brightly lit areas and one dimly lit area. Looking through the hanging curtains into the inner room, the furnishings were luxurious. Guided by Sister-in-law Mude, they walked out of the front railing and turned right; the bathroom seemed to be located outside the pavilion. Lan Tianpeng proceeded along the railing and found that only two maids remained in the small garden below, tidying the incense table; Madam Ouyang and Ouyang Zi were nowhere to be seen.

Reaching the end of the elegant room, his eyes lit up. A sky bridge led directly from the railing to a delicate little house about five or six zhang away. The little house was built atop a strangely shaped boulder, which was connected to three other jagged, precipitous rocks, making it invisible from the outside. After crossing the sky bridge, Sister-in-law Mude opened the door. A wave of warm air immediately rushed out. Lan Tianpeng looked closely and saw that a charcoal fire had already been lit beside a large bathtub.

Sister-in-law Mude placed her clothes and sword on a long, lacquered table and pointed to two maids, saying, "This one is called Jin Kui, and this one is called Jin Ying. Please let them do whatever you need." With a slight bow, she left the small room and closed the door behind her.

Lan Tianpeng nodded in understanding to Mu De's wife as she left. Jin Kui and Jin Ying, one taking off his tattered scholar's cap and the other fetching water, noticed that Jin Kui was older and more robust, while Jin Ying appeared thinner. As he was observing her, a soft "thud" startled Jin Kui. Lan Tianpeng looked down and saw that the two "Fire Dragon Pearls" he had been carrying had fallen to the ground when he loosened his inner belt. Jin Kui

, regaining her composure, quickly picked them up. Seeing the two blood-red, sparkling "Fire Dragon Pearls," she found them quite charming and couldn't help but smile, saying, "My young lady loves these flawless, blood-red pearls, and they're so big!" She then looked at them again, admiring them for a moment before placing them on the long table.

Because of the conversation about Miss Ouyang, Lan Tianpeng refrained from saying anything, only smiling. Seeing that Jin Ying had already prepared the bathwater, he immediately said gently, "You can go now, I'm going to take a bath."

Jin Kui and Jin Ying exchanged a smile, whispered a "yes," and went out, closing the door behind them. Lan Tianpeng, who was undressing, could still hear the two women whispering and giggling outside. As a guest, Lan Tianpeng didn't want to scold them, so he immediately went to take a bath. After a quick bath, he dried himself and his hair, put on his undergarments, and coughed. Jin Kui and Jin Ying, with mysterious smiles, entered.

Jin Kui hurriedly untied a small bag and took out a silver, almost transparent undershirt for Lan Tianpeng to wear. Jin Ying had already gathered Lan Tianpeng's hair with a coarse silk cloth. After putting on the undershirt, Jin Kui picked up a soft, silky vest. Lan Tianpeng, because it belonged to the "Silver-Clad Swordsman," couldn't refuse and let Jin Kui put it on. Finally, she picked up the long robe that represented the "Silver-Clad Swordsman," which shimmered slightly with silver light.

Lan Tianpeng's heart stirred, and he took it from Jin Kui to examine it closely. The silver robe was as thin as paper, extremely soft, and remarkably elastic. The entire hem could be held in the hand, but it would spring back flat the moment the fingers released it. It was neither silk nor satin; its material was unknown. Lan Tianpeng examined it for a long time before handing it to Jin Kui to put on. As Jin Kui tied the ribbons around his ribs, she noticed two small, shimmering silver beads already adorning them. Unable to replace them with his family heirloom, the "Fire Dragon Pearls," he could only place the pair of blood-red beads inside his robe. The silver robe fit him perfectly. He also realized that if this robe were truly meant for Ouyang Zi, it would need to be shortened further, as Ouyang Zi was at least a head shorter than him.

Jin Ying tied his hair up and changed him into a silver silk scholar's cap, but in the center and at each of the four corners of the cap, a snow-white, shimmering silver bead was attached, identical to the two on his cap. With the silver sword on, everything was in place. Jin Kui opened the door and led the way, walking out of the small room. The sun had already climbed high above the mountain peak, making the earth bright and clear. The scenery in the water garden in the valley was especially beautiful. Crossing the sky bridge, he returned to the Li Pavilion, where Sister-in-law Mude was still waiting.

Upon seeing Lan Tianpeng, Sister-in-law Mude immediately asked respectfully, "Does the silver robe fit well?"

Lan Tianpeng replied cheerfully, "It fits perfectly, and it's extremely light."

Sister-in-law Mude immediately said meaningfully, "But the burden it places on you is not light."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng nodded solemnly and replied, "Yes." Sister-in-law Mude then took a small silver dart pouch and a thin book from a small table to the side, saying, "This is the 'Nine-Colored Pearl' and Master's 'Secret Technique for Moving Acupoints'."

Lan Tianpeng took them with both hands, first tying the small pouch to his waist, then glancing at the Secret Technique for Moving Acupoints. Sister-in-law Mude immediately instructed, "Please have the young master write down the method of circulating qi for moving acupoints. The secret manual should still be returned to my wife. Now the young master can rest." Lan

Tianpeng nodded knowingly and turned to enter the bedroom. Sister-in-law Mude and Jinying went downstairs, leaving only Jin Kui in the upper room to await his orders. Lan Tianpeng entered the bedroom and saw floor-to-ceiling windows, the paper windows bright enough to have been recently replaced. Back in the Cold Fragrance Valley of Motianling, Lan Tianpeng had already learned the art of striking flying stones, and coupled with his diligent study of the "Flying Cloud's Ultimate Pen" plum blossom technique of "Nine-Sided Nails with Reverse Thorns" under the tutelage of "Flying Cloud's Ultimate Pen" on Mount Fanjing, he was more than capable of striking the "Nine-Colored Pearl."

He lay down on a sandalwood bed, propped up the embroidered pillow, and carefully examined it. Having not slept well for several days, and having just bathed, and feeling relaxed, he unconsciously fell asleep. Although he sensed someone covering him with a brocade quilt, he knew it was either Jin Kui or Jinying, so he kept his eyes closed, wanting to sleep. When he woke up, it was already noon. Opening his eyes, he found Jin Kui standing before his bed. Startled, he quickly threw off the covers and sat up, asking with concern, "What's wrong?"

Jin Kui smiled mysteriously, bowed slightly, and said, "My young master and young lady have both come to see you twice."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng uneasily got off the bed and said somewhat reproachfully, "Why didn't you wake me up?"

Jin Kui immediately suppressed a laugh and said seriously, "My young lady forbade me from waking you." As she spoke, Jin Ying brought over a hot towel.

Lan Tianpeng quickly wiped his face and immediately ordered, "Quickly, please invite your young lady..." Before he could finish speaking, Jin Zou and Jin Ying both chuckled. Jin Kui said with a smile, "My young lady has already returned."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng's handsome face turned red. He realized he had been too impulsive and had to change his question, "Where is your young master?"

Upon being asked, Jin Ying immediately frowned and hesitated, saying, "My young master came twice just now, looking very hurried. The last time, I heard him mutter to himself that there wasn't enough time and asked Madam to tell him. After that, the young master didn't come again."

Lan Tianpeng was startled and couldn't help but say urgently, "Why didn't you wake me up then?"

Jin Ying said somewhat aggrievedly, "The young master is a guest. How could I dare not wake you if the master didn't wake you up?"

Upon hearing "guest," Lan Tianpeng immediately realized he shouldn't have scolded Jin Ying and Jin Ying, but he still urged, "You two, quickly lead me to see Madam. Your young master must have something urgent." As he spoke, he took the lead and walked up the stairs.

Before even reaching the pavilion, he heard Sister Mu De laughingly say, "My young master left long ago, and now my young lady has come to see your little brother Peng."

Lan Tianpeng was startled and looked up at the sound of her voice. He saw Sister Mu De walking into the pavilion alone, so he asked with concern, "Where is your young lady?"

Sister Mu De immediately turned around and pointed to the door, smiling mysteriously, "My young lady is standing outside the door."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng hurried forward to greet her, saying urgently, "Please come in quickly, please come in quickly..." As he spoke, Miss Ouyang, still dressed in her long, light purple robe, walked in automatically from outside the pavilion with her head half-lowered and a faint smile on her face.

Lan Tianpeng's eyes lit up at the sight of her—Miss Ouyang was lightly made up, her eyebrows were delicately drawn, and her high-coiled hair was adorned with a new gold hairpin with a pearl and a phoenix design. Two jade pendants were also attached to her purple silk ribbon, and a gold ring was added to her jade neck. Clearly, she had deliberately dressed up before coming. As he looked around, Miss Ouyang entered the hall with a charming smile. Lan Tianpeng, regaining his composure, quickly bowed and said humbly, "I was unaware of Sister Ouyang's arrival. I apologize for not greeting you sooner."

Miss Ouyang returned the bow, saying sweetly, "We're like siblings, Brother Peng, no need for such formality."

Mu De's wife, standing nearby, seized the opportunity to say with a smile, "Although my young lady is a learned and talented woman, she dislikes people who speak in a flowery, pedantic manner." Lan

Tianpeng's handsome face flushed slightly, and he repeatedly replied "Yes," before respectfully inviting Miss Ouyang to take a seat. Miss Ouyang, still smiling, showed no humility and sat down in the most prestigious chair. Lan Tianpeng felt that this Miss Ouyang was completely different from the one from the previous night; recalling that icy demeanor, he couldn't help but feel unimpressed. Especially now, with a radiant smile and cherry lips in full bloom, not only was she much more friendly on the surface, but she also felt a sense of kinship deep within.

As soon as they sat down, Miss Ouyang glanced at Lan Tianpeng and smiled, "My mother and brother told me that you, Peng, have inherited my father's sword-wielding mantle. I am deeply grateful that my mother made the right choice in giving him away, and that my brother has a good eye."

Lan Tianpeng dared not look directly at Miss Ouyang and immediately bowed, saying, "Sister Ouyang, you flatter me. I truly dare not accept such praise..." Before he could finish, Miss Ouyang smiled and said, "From now on, Peng is also a member of our family. Please don't be so modest."

Lan Tianpeng immediately bowed and replied, "Yes," but he was puzzled. Could Ouyang Zi really be a man? Miss Ouyang smiled and said, "My purpose in coming here is twofold: first, to celebrate you inheriting my father's mantle, and second, to tell you about the origin of the silver vest."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately replied solemnly, "Yes." At this moment, Jin Ying brought two cups of fragrant tea, placing them in front of Lan Tianpeng and Miss Ouyang respectively. As soon as Jin Ying left, Miss Ouyang looked at Lan Tianpeng and said, "This 'Colorful Silver Rainbow Sword' that my brother wears was brought back by my father from the 'Holy Monk of the East Sea'." Lan Tianpeng dared not look directly at Miss Ouyang, only lowering his head to examine the silver sword closely, occasionally responding with "Yes."

Miss Ouyang continued, "This sword is incredibly sharp, cutting through iron like mud, but when my father was alive, it rarely clashed with the weapons of masters..."

Lan Tianpeng, realizing the fierce fighting and inevitable clash of weapons, unconsciously looked up and asked, "Excuse me, sister, why?" As he spoke, he noticed that Miss Ouyang did indeed resemble his cousin, Xiao Qionghua, and his expression froze.

Miss Ouyang blushed at his gaze and immediately lowered her head shyly, asking, "Why are you looking at me like that, Brother Peng?"

Lan Tianpeng was startled, realizing his rudeness, and hurriedly bowed, saying, "Because you look like…"

Upon hearing this, Miss Ouyang asked with concern, "Who do you resemble?"

Lan Tianpeng felt it inappropriate to mention his cousin, Xiao Qionghua, in front of Miss Ouyang. If she asked about his fiancée, wouldn't it seem like he was taking advantage of her? His mind raced, and he could only change his words, saying, "I think you look like Brother Ouyang…" Miss Ouyang's body trembled slightly upon hearing this, and she was speechless.

Mu De's wife, standing nearby, immediately laughed and said, "My dear Young Master Lan, you really know how to talk! A sister born of the same mother, if she doesn't resemble her own brother, should she resemble someone else?"

Lan Tianpeng, who had been hastily correcting himself, hadn't expected to slip up and could only smile, his handsome face slightly flushed. However, Miss Ouyang continued to steer the conversation back to the original point, saying, "Firstly, because my father has never fought anyone more than three moves before the opponent is defeated; secondly, because the 'Colorful Silver Rainbow Sword' is inlaid with gemstones, and he fears it might be knocked away by a collision."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng suddenly understood and said gratefully, "Thank you for the reminder, sister. Otherwise, I would have accidentally damaged this divine weapon one day."

Miss Ouyang smiled elegantly and continued, "Secondly, there's your inner and outer silver robes. According to that strange person who told my father, they are both made of celestial silkworm silk, which is not only waterproof and fireproof, but also keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter, and is immune to deadly poisons."

Lan Tianpeng was startled and exclaimed, "How can I, my brother, wear two such precious garments by myself? At least one should be given to Brother Ouyang..." Miss Ouyang was deeply moved, but she cheerfully shook her head and smiled, saying ,

"No, this is my father's last wish; all three must be worn together."

Lan Tianpeng thought of "all three," and then seemed to understand, saying, "Sister, are you referring to that silk vest?"

Miss Ouyang nodded, saying, "That's right, that vest ..." "My heart is also made of silkworm silk, which can not only protect against the power of a distant palm strike, but also resist the force of internal energy... Alas... My father did not follow the advice of the strange man, and thus lost his precious life..."

Lan Tianpeng was shocked upon hearing this and hurriedly asked, "Sister, are you referring to Senior Ouyang's trip to Mount Fanjing?"

Miss Ouyang looked somber, her eyes glistening with tears, and nodded, saying, "If Father had been wearing a silkworm silk vest, he wouldn't have been struck in several vital points by 'Flying Cloud's Last Words' and wouldn't have been unable to withstand the power of 'Diamond Finger'."

Because Ding Shangxian, the "Flying Cloud's Last Words" master, was his master, Lan Tianpeng couldn't say anything, and simply lowered his head in silence. Miss Ouyang glanced at Lan Tianpeng and instead offered words of comfort, saying, "Although the older generation's resentment stemmed from a misunderstanding, the root cause was Chen Tianli. Of course, the most unforgivable one is that thief, 'Black Hand Sanlang'." Upon hearing this

, Lan Tianpeng suddenly looked up, his face filled with murderous intent. He gritted his teeth and said hatefully, "Yes, I don't care where that thief is hiding, or what power he's under. I will capture him alive, skin him alive, and tear him to pieces!"

Miss Ouyang interjected, "Now, more important than killing that thief is the first half of the 'Diamond Subduing Demon Treasure Record.' We must find it as soon as possible, otherwise, the consequences will be endless."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng said anxiously, "I know that the thief is under the protection of the Kongtong Sect. As long as he finds the old Taoist 'Yuxu,' he won't have to worry about not finding 'Black Hand Sanlang.'"

Upon hearing this, Miss Ouyang immediately said seriously, "Master Yuxu is no ordinary person, and he has 'Liaoyin' and his cousin Lanxiangji as his helpers. Brother Peng, you must not go in alone at the moment. You must plan carefully and it would be best to unite with some gangs or heroes who are enemies of the Kongtong Sect." Lan Tianpeng's heart stirred upon hearing this, and he immediately said in a tone of sudden realization, "

The Dragon and Phoenix Society has always been an enemy of the Kongtong Sect, and its members are numerous masters with influence throughout the north and south of the Yangtze River. It is a perfect opportunity to subdue and utilize them..."

Upon hearing this, Miss Ouyang frowned and hesitated, saying, "My brother has also long harbored this intention, but he has been hesitant to take action due to the unparalleled lightness skill and swordsmanship of the opposing female leader, 'Golden Thread

Without Shadow.'" Before Miss Ouyang could finish speaking, Lan Tianpeng raised his eyebrows slightly and said with great confidence, "A few days ago, I might not have dared to claim that I was confident enough to defeat 'Golden Thread Without Shadow.' Now, having mastered the swordsmanship and movement techniques left by Senior Ouyang, and with the aid of the Silver Robe Sword, defeating 'Golden Thread Without Shadow' is a matter of mere ease."

Upon hearing this, Miss Ouyang couldn't help but ask somewhat unconvinced, "Brother Peng, are you so confident?"

Lan Tianpeng smiled proudly and said, "I never boast. As the saying goes, 'Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will never be defeated.'"

Miss Ouyang turned her head to look at Lan Tianpeng, asking with concern, "So, Brother Peng, you know quite a lot about 'Golden Thread Without Shadow'?" Lan

Tianpeng smiled and said, "I wouldn't say I know everything, but I've at least seen her lightness skill and the way she draws and withdraws her sword."

Upon hearing this, Miss Ouyang frowned again, and said softly, "Assuming we really subdue 'Golden Thread Without Shadow'... she's the leader of the Dragon and Phoenix Society... you... won't you..."

Seeing Miss Ouyang suddenly hesitate, Lan Tianpeng couldn't help but ask, "Sister, do you mean...?"

Miss Ouyang blushed and said against her will, "Will she... will she obey your commands?"

Lan Tianpeng remembered that Ma Wu had once said that Ouyang Zi might be "Golden Thread Without Shadow," and deliberately said, "That goes without saying, she'll come when summoned and leave when dismissed."

Upon hearing this, Miss Ouyang's face immediately showed displeasure, clearly thinking that Lan Tianpeng was too arrogant. Lan Tianpeng's heart stirred; could the Ouyang family really be related to the "Dragon and Phoenix Society"? However, Mu De's wife, standing nearby, laughed and said, "If you keep summoning her like this, won't you become the young mistress of Lengxiang Valley in the long run?"

Lan Tianpeng, honest and still somewhat childish, couldn't help but laugh upon hearing this. Miss Ouyang and Mu De's wife, confused as to why Lan Tianpeng was laughing, were both stunned. Lan Tianpeng laughed and said, "There are so many beautiful women in the world, how could I, Lan Tianpeng, marry a woman with scars and pockmarks?" This was Lan Tianpeng deliberately testing Miss Ouyang's reaction.

Before he finished speaking, Miss Ouyang's expression had already changed drastically. Just as she was about to say something, they suddenly heard Ouyang's husband's cheerful voice outside the pavilion asking, "Peng'er, what kind of girl do you want to marry?"

Lan Tianpeng was greatly startled, inwardly cursing. Although Madam Ouyang had asked with a cheerful laugh, he was certain she would be angry at his inappropriate words, especially in front of her beloved daughter. In a panic, he and Miss Ouyang had already risen at the same time and hurried to the door to greet him. As they moved forward, a quick glance revealed a hint of displeasure on Miss Ouyang's delicate face. Before they even reached the door, Madam Ouyang entered with a cheerful smile, followed by two maids, each carrying a tray laden with wine and dishes.

Upon seeing Lan Tianpeng and Miss Ouyang, Madam Ouyang continued with a smile, asking, "What are you two talking about, so happily?"

Lan Tianpeng, fearing Miss Ouyang might interject, hurriedly bowed and said, "I was just joking with my sister, we didn't say anything."

Madam Ouyang, experienced and worldly, naturally noticed Lan Tianpeng's flustered expression. She smiled, glanced at him, and continued, "Peng'er, this silver robe fits you perfectly! And the seven snow-white gems on your belt and turban—you must pay attention to them. If you need to conceal yourself at night, you must first cover these seven silver snow-white gems, otherwise you'll have been spotted hundreds of feet away."

Lan Tianpeng bowed again, saying, "Thank you for the reminder, Aunt." As they spoke, Sister-in-law Mude and the four women, including Jin Ying, had already set out the food and wine. Upon seeing this,

Madam Ouyang immediately gestured respectfully and said, "Peng'er, let's have lunch."

As Madam Ouyang spoke, she took her seat in the central seat, with Miss Ouyang accompanying her on her left. Upon seeing this, Lan Tianpeng couldn't help but ask with concern, "Where is Brother Ouyang? Why didn't you come to lunch with us?"

Madam Ouyang immediately smiled gracefully and said, "This morning, he heard from Old Mude that a new female knight-errant has recently emerged. She is extremely beautiful, but her personality is quite different from that of ordinary girls. She is ruthless and quick to kill, truly hating evil as if it were her enemy. Few underworld figures with even a slight notoriety who fall into her hands escape their fate. Therefore, people have given her the nickname 'The Beautiful Rakshasa.'" Upon hearing this

, Lan Tianpeng exclaimed, "Wow, that's impressive!"

Madam Ouyang immediately smiled and said, "That's why your brother Zi decided to go and meet her. Besides, Zi'er is already twenty years old; it's time for her to get married."

Lan Tianpeng smiled happily upon hearing this, and as he sat down, he said with a smile, "So that's how it is! Brother Ouyang, with your handsome and dashing appearance, will surely succeed and bring back a beautiful sister-in-law."

Madam Ouyang, however, said meaningfully, "Although your brother Ouyang is handsome and dashing, compared to you, Peng'er, he seems to lack a bit of heroic spirit. Perhaps that's why he doesn't dare to go with you."

Lan Tianpeng's heart stirred upon hearing this, but he became increasingly confused. Madam Ouyang smiled happily and said, "Peng'er, drink up!" So, the three of them drank and ate, discussing the current situation in the martial arts world.

Finally, Miss Ouyang said, "I think that to curb the expansion of the Kongtong Sect's evil influence, we must unite with the Dragon and Phoenix Society. It is said that the Dragon and Phoenix Society is even more powerful than the Kongtong Sect. Therefore, I encourage my younger brother Peng to challenge 'Golden Thread Shadowless' and work with her to stabilize the martial arts world."

Madam Ouyang pondered for a moment, then hesitated and said, "That is one way, but 'Golden Thread Shadowless's' swordsmanship is quite good. If your brother were here, he and your younger brother Peng could go together..."

Before she could finish speaking, Miss Ouyang interrupted, "I want Sister-in-law Mude to go with younger brother Peng."

Before Miss Ouyang could finish speaking, Lan Tianpeng immediately stopped her, saying, "No need. I always act independently, and it's not advisable to bring too many people when challenging someone to a duel."

Madam Ouyang also chimed in, "Peng'er, it's always good to have two more eyes, and besides, it'll be helpful to have someone to look after you along the way. " Lan Tianpeng immediately declined, saying, "

I'm already of age and can take care of everything myself. Besides, my aunt and sister Ouyang need Sister Mude to manage the household affairs. I think there's no need to trouble Sister Mude any further."

Madam Ouyang glanced at Miss Ouyang and smiled meaningfully, saying, "Since that's the case, you must be careful. Don't be hasty. As long as you use your brain, there's nothing you can't figure out, understand?"

Lan Tianpeng respectfully replied, "Yes," and continued, "Now that Brother Ouyang has gone down the mountain, I've decided to leave immediately. As for swordsmanship and the acupoint shifting technique, I can practice diligently on the way. By the time I reach Kuocang Mountain, I'll surely be able to use them freely."

Madam Ouyang smiled kindly and said, "As for swordsmanship, once you pass through the cave's diagram chamber, you can be ready for battle. As for the acupoint shifting technique, it's not something that can be mastered overnight, so there's no need to rush."

Lan Tianpeng was determined to leave immediately, feeling that the two "Fire Dragon Pearls" in his arms were useless to keep. On one hand, fearing disappointment, and on the other hand, to repay Madam Ouyang for secretly sending someone to guide him to learn swordsmanship and giving him clothes, he hurriedly got up, took out the two "Fire Dragon Pearls" from his bosom, and said with a smile, "I heard from Jin Kui that Sister Ouyang loves collecting pearls and antiques. I have a pair of 'Fire Dragon Pearls' here, so I'll give them to you to play with." After saying that, he presented them to Madam Ouyang, who looked astonished.

Upon seeing them, Madam Ouyang immediately said in a panic, "How can you give away such priceless pearls so easily? Child, you wouldn't accept them..."

Lan Tianpeng was simple-minded and did not understand Madam Ouyang's meaning. He continued sincerely, "I sincerely want to give them to Sister Ouyang. Please accept them, Aunt."

Madam Ouyang chuckled kindly, took the pair of "Fire Dragon Pearls," and immediately handed them to Miss Ouyang with both hands, gesturing, "Aren't you going to thank your brother Peng?" Miss

Ouyang blushed, her cheeks flushed, and stood up to take the "Fire Dragon Pearls." Facing Lan Tianpeng, she smiled shyly and said in a very low voice, "Thank you, brother Peng."

Lan Tianpeng was taken aback, thinking, "What's so shameful about giving a pair of 'Fire Dragon Pearls'?" He was so embarrassed that he couldn't lift his head, but he said cheerfully, "We're like siblings, no need for thanks." After saying that, he looked at Madam Ouyang, cupped his hands, and said respectfully, "I have already eaten and drunk my fill. I am deeply grateful for your kindness, Auntie. I cannot express my gratitude in words, but I will always remember it. I will take my leave now and come to pay my respects another day." He then bowed deeply to the ground.

Madam Ouyang hurriedly rose and said kindly, "Peng'er, we're all family now, no need for thanks. I only hope you'll take good care of Zi'er."

Lan Tianpeng, unsure of Madam Ouyang's meaning, could only humbly reply, "Brother Ouyang's martial arts are superb, and he's very astute. I have much to learn from him..."

Before he could finish, Madam Ouyang sighed sadly, "Peng'er, you're a kind-hearted child. Your aunt's words aren't without reason. Think carefully on your way to Kuocang Mountain, and you'll realize how much Zi'er needs your care. You must know, he's my only child, and I've spoiled him. Peng'er, you understand my suffering." "Is that right?"

Miss Ouyang, standing nearby, immediately said unhappily, "Mother, what are you saying? You've confused Brother Peng."

Lan Tianpeng, somewhat dazed, quickly replied, "I understand what you mean, Aunt."

Madam Ouyang nodded, forcing a smile, and said, "Old Mude came this morning and left again. He's probably still at Yuejiu Restaurant. If you need anything, just tell him, and he'll definitely do it." Lan

Tianpeng immediately said gratefully, "Thank you, Aunt, I don't need anything."

Upon hearing this, Madam Ouyang immediately said, "Then I'll see you out of the valley..."

Lan Tianpeng felt that Madam Ouyang might be intentionally guiding him out, so he thanked her and they walked out of the pavilion together. Madam Ouyang was still in front, with Lan Tianpeng and Miss Ouyang in the middle, and Mude's sister-in-law behind them. The four of them followed the path strewn with strange rocks, exiting through a small red-lacquered gate, which led to the water garden in the valley. The sun was already setting in the west, just past midnight. The bright sunlight streamed directly into the valley, making the red flowers, green bamboo, clear water, and elegant pavilions appear even more beautiful. Lan Tianpeng, admiring the magnificent scenery of the water garden, deeply regretted not having visited it himself.

Ouyang, who had been silently walking beside him, occasionally glanced at Lan Tianpeng's expression. Seeing his expression, she immediately said affectionately, "Next time you come, I'll take you to play in the garden properly. We can also row a boat to the narrow waterfall to the north; that's truly a hidden paradise."

Lan Tianpeng exclaimed in surprise, looking up at the long, narrow waterfall cascading down from the sky. Passing through the pine forest, the four headed southeast. Not only were the slopes of the peaks steep, but the ground was also extremely rugged, sometimes requiring them to leap and bound. Lan Tianpeng was very careful to find the cave entrance he had emerged from the previous night, but he couldn't see its location no matter what he tried. Reaching the ridgeline between the two peaks, Lan Tianpeng finally realized that there were only cliffs ahead.

As he surveyed the area, Madam Ouyang smiled and said, "Peng'er, going down from here, you only need to cross a deep ravine seven or eight zhang wide to descend the mountain. I think even without a single-plank bridge, a distance of seven or eight zhang shouldn't be too difficult for you." Lan Tianpeng immediately replied respectfully.

Madam Ouyang pointed down the cliff and said, "This cliff is incredibly dangerous. Unless you're a flying sword immortal, no one can climb up. You can only go down here. When you return, you'll need someone to guide you."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng knew that Madam Ouyang was referring to the ancient wooden bridge. So, he looked down and saw that the cliff face was narrow, with only a small rock face ten zhang below. Below that was a steep cliff, leading directly to the edge of a deep ravine seven or eight zhang wide. From the opposite cliff of the ravine, there were only towering peaks and dense forests outside the mountain, but he was confident he could fly there smoothly. After surveying the area, he bowed respectfully to Madam Ouyang and her daughter, saying, "Aunt, Sister, please take care. I'll take my leave now."

Madam Ouyang also said with concern, "Peng'er, be cautious in all things, and never be aggressive or violent."

Lan Tianpeng respectfully replied again, and with a flash, his figure swayed gently, leaving a bright shadow as he swiftly plunged down—if viewed from a distance, it would surely be a silver line, reaching straight down the cliff. When Lan Tianpeng passed the protruding rock in the middle, he did not stop, but merely lightly tapped the rock with his sleeve. Upon reaching the bottom of the cliff, without pausing, he leaped down into the deep ravine, his toes barely touching the edge of the cave, and he soared into the air, like a silver crane descending from the sky, flying straight towards the opposite cliff. Madam Ouyang and her daughter, along with Sister-in-law Mu De, who were standing on the cliff, watched Lan Tianpeng descend the cliff and cross the ravine in one go, and couldn't help but worry for him. Only when Lan Tianpeng reached the opposite cliff did the three of them feel at ease, and at the same time, they unconsciously exclaimed in praise, "What superb lightness skill! None of the three of us can match it."

Lan Tianpeng leaped across the deep ravine in one breath and immediately turned around. He waved goodbye once more to Madam Ouyang, Miss Ouyang, and Sister-in-law Mude, who were perched atop the cliff. Only after the three of them waved back did he turn and leap, displaying his light-footed skill, speeding along a winding ridge towards the outside of the mountain. In that instant, he still remembered Madam Ouyang's lingering expression, her forced smile, and Sister-in-law Mude's reluctant look. Only Miss Ouyang, amidst her waving and laughter, seemed to harbor excitement. However, the mountain path gradually became more rugged, leaving him no time to ponder further. Nevertheless, he felt he should carefully consider Madam Ouyang's parting words.

Judging from Madam Ouyang's tone, there seemed to be unspoken difficulties beneath her concern. Her words revealed that she had spoiled her only son excessively, forcing him to obey Ouyang Zi's every whim—perhaps this was her predicament. However, in his autobiography written in the cave where the "Silver-Clad Swordsman" passed away, he didn't mention his beloved wife, children, or relatives, but only his wife, daughter, and disciple. Based on this, Lan Tianpeng became quite suspicious. If Madam Ouyang had no son, then was Ouyang Zi a woman disguised as a man, or was she the "Silver-Clad Swordsman's" disciple who changed her name to Ouyang Zi? And why hadn't he seen the "Silver-Clad Swordsman's" disciple in the valley? Nor had he heard Madam Ouyang mention the disciple's whereabouts or name.

Thinking of names, he suddenly thought of that Miss Ouyang, and thought, "Strange, why hasn't Madam Ouyang ever mentioned her daughter's name, and why hasn't that Miss Ouyang mentioned her own name?" Thinking this, he felt there were even more doubts. If the "Silver-Clad Swordsman's" disciple was indeed Ouyang Zi, why couldn't she inherit the "Silver-Clad Swordsman's" robes and sword? It's only natural for a disciple to inherit their master's mantle.

Furthermore, Ouyang Zi's pursuit of "The Rakshasa Beauty" might have been an excuse. Although Lan Tianpeng hadn't protested or expressed dissatisfaction when he accepted the sword and robes before the incense offering, perhaps he dared not because he was intimidated by Madam Ouyang's authority. Lan Tianpeng pondered this, becoming increasingly confused, and decided to stop thinking about it altogether, hurrying down the mountain.

Upon reaching the foot of the mountain, although the sun was setting, it was still far from the horizon. Since the mountain road and the official road leading to Tiantai County were still crowded with people and carriages, he had no choice but to stride towards the official road. He decided that the first thing he would do upon reaching Tiantai City was to find Liu Qingsan, the leader of the Beggars' Sect, and ask if the "Heroic Beggar" had brought any message from Ganxi.

However, regardless, he absolutely had to make a trip to Kuocang Mountain, the headquarters of the "Dragon and Phoenix Society." Of course, his revenge against "Black Hand Sanlang" for his masters didn't necessarily require the help of the "Dragon and Phoenix Society," and avenging the murder of his father and the destruction of his family didn't necessitate the "Dragon and Phoenix Society" sending people to find the two traitors. His purpose in going to the "Dragon and Phoenix Society" was to test his swordsmanship and see if it surpassed Ouyang Zi's.

He greatly admired Ouyang Zi's swordsmanship, but he couldn't challenge him to a duel; doing so, regardless of who won or lost, would damage the harmony between the brothers. He had heard Ouyang Zi say that his swordsmanship was slightly inferior to "Golden Thread Shadowless." If he, Lan Tianpeng, defeated "Golden Thread Shadowless," it would naturally prove that his swordsmanship had surpassed Ouyang Zi's. Furthermore, Kuocang Mountain was only a day's journey by fast horse and two days' walk from Tiantai County. If he went to various places to search for "Black Hand Sanlang" and the two traitors, he might never have the opportunity to go to the "Dragon and Phoenix Society." In the blink of an eye, Lan Tianpeng had already traveled three or four miles along the official road from the southern foothills, when two fast horses galloped towards him, about half a horse's distance apart.

Lan Tianpeng was walking on the side, unaware of the two horses, which kicked up clouds of dust as they raced past. Because the two horses were moving at an astonishing speed, as they passed each other, Lan Tianpeng instinctively looked up at the riders. What he saw startled him. The two people on the tall blue and yellow horses were none other than the handsome young man in blue robes who had echoed his cries deep into the Tiantai Mountains the previous night, and his old servant, the gray-robed old man. The handsome young man in blue robes and the gray-robed old man were also turning to look at Lan Tianpeng.

The young man in blue robes' eyes lit up upon seeing Lan Tianpeng, and he exclaimed in surprise, "Ah!" At the same time, he instinctively pulled back his reins. The gray-robed old man's eyes also lit up.

As the two men simultaneously reined in their horses, both the blue and yellow steeds let out a painful neigh, raised their front hooves high, and stood upright, spinning around for a moment before lowering their hooves. This commotion of neighing and hooves, the splashing of mud and the billowing of yellow dust made it impossible for people facing each other to see each other. The few pedestrians on the road were startled and quickly dismounted. A gentle breeze blew away the dust, and the handsome young man in blue and the old man in gray had already dismounted.

The old man in gray, first addressing the astonished Lan Tianpeng, clasped his hands in a respectful greeting and said humbly, "This old man is Yan Qi, known as 'Rope Whip.' Two years ago, I went on official business to the borderlands and had the opportunity to meet your father, the 'Golden-Backed Knife' Lan the Hero, several times..."

Upon hearing the mention of his father, Lan Tianpeng quickly bowed politely and said, "So you are Uncle Yan."

Before he could finish speaking, Yan Qi, nicknamed "Rope Whip," hurriedly waved his hands, saying, "Young Master Lan, if you're going to say that, this old man is truly unworthy of such praise. From now on, please just call me Yan Qi." He then quickly turned and pointed respectfully at the handsome young man in blue, saying, "This is my young master, Ji Xianglan. Ji is the 'auspicious' one, Xiang is the 'Xiang' one, and Lan is the 'Lan' one, meaning 'to turn the tide.'" Before

Yan Qi could finish speaking, Lan Tianpeng immediately cupped his hands and smiled, saying, "So it's Young Hero Ji. I've heard so much about you."

Ji Xianglan also quickly cupped his hands and smiled, saying, "I've met Young Master Lan several times, but we haven't spoken. [The sentence is incomplete and ends abruptly.] "What a coincidence! Today, a stroke of luck has presented me with this opportunity, and I've run into you on my way

to find you." Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately thought of "Rope Whip" Yan Qi, who had just mentioned how hard he had been looking for him. Confused, he asked, "Young Master Ji, are you... are you... looking for me?"

Before Ji Xianglan could speak, Yan Qi interrupted with a smile, "That's right. My servant and I followed you from the Chenxi City restaurant to the South Lake Mountain, and from there we chased you to Tiantai. Last night, we were still searching for you in the mountains ahead." He pointed to the majestic Tiantai Mountain range.

Lan Tianpeng, still unsure of the true background and intentions of the blue-robed youth Ji Xianglan and "Rope Whip" Yan Qi, didn't say anything, only feigning surprise with an "Eh," without daring to reveal what had happened the previous night. "Lock Whip" Yan Qi continued, "We've rested in the city for a day and decided to go into the mountains again tonight to find you for another night."

Lan Tianpeng, puzzled, asked, "What brings you two here?"

"Lock Whip" Yan Qi glanced at both sides of the road, then pointed to a tree several dozen feet away, saying, "It's not convenient to talk here; let's go talk in the woods over there." He then took the horse from the handsome young man in blue, Ji Xianglan, and urged him respectfully, "Please go ahead, you two."

So, Lan Tianpeng and Ji Xianglan rode side-by-side, while "Lock Whip" Yan Qi pulled the horse behind. As he pulled the horse forward, "Lock Whip" Yan Qi cheerfully said, "My young master, two years ago, accompanied my mistress to the borderlands to visit your aunt, the heroine 'Silver Sky Blue Swallow' Lan Yilan..."

Lan Tianpeng's heart skipped a beat, and he turned to look at Ji Xianglan, asking with concern, "Really?" "And your mother is…?"

The handsome young man in blue, Ji Xianglan, smiled and said, "My mother is Ji Suqing. Friends in the martial arts world gave her a beautiful name: 'Frost Sword Divine Trace.'"

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately exclaimed excitedly, "So

your mother is the Heroine Ji! I've often heard my aunt talk about her chivalrous deeds of eliminating evil and upholding justice!" Yan Qi, standing behind him, laughed and said, "Young Master Lan, now you should finally acknowledge that our young master is a friend of yours."

Ji Xianglan's beautiful eyes darted around, and she smiled mysteriously, saying, "And that Sister Qionghua, not only is she beautiful, but her swordsmanship is also exceptional..." Before she could finish speaking, they had already reached the edge of the forest, and she stopped talking. Entering the forest, they dismounted from a fallen tree at the edge.

Yan Qi, known as "Rope Whip," secured the horse and took out two packets of braised food and a jade wine bottle from the saddlebags. He smiled merrily and said, "Since we've met the young master, we don't need these nighttime snacks and drinks. Now is the time for a meal. Let's eat and talk." As he spoke, he untied the two packets of braised food. One packet contained braised chicken and eggs, and the other contained sausages, smoked dumplings, and braised beef.

However, the lid of the jade wine bottle was actually a jade cup, causing Yan Qi to frown. Because Ji Xianglan mentioned "Silver Sky Blue Swallow" Lan Yilan and Xiao Qionghua, Lan Tianpeng felt an unconscious sense of closeness towards Ji Xianglan, as if he were seeing a relative. He also firmly believed that "Rope Whip" Yan Qi had met his father. Seeing Yan Qi holding the green jade wine bottle with a troubled expression, he couldn't help but ask with concern, "How is Uncle Yan?"

"Lock Whip" Yan Qi smiled wryly and said, "This old man has never drunk a drop of wine. This wine is only for my young master to keep warm at night, so there's only one cup."

Upon hearing this, Ji Xianglan immediately smiled and said, "I don't really like drinking either. Uncle Qi, you can have Brother Lan drink it all by yourself."

Lan Tianpeng was pleased and said without hesitation, "We're brothers, what's wrong with two people sharing a cup? Or, let's put the wine back for now and not drink it."

Upon hearing "two people sharing a cup," Ji Xianglan couldn't help but feel a little embarrassed, but still smiled and said, "As the saying goes, 'Drinking and talking makes one a thousand cups without getting drunk.' There's no reason to talk while eating. I have a low alcohol tolerance, so I'll use a cup. Brother Lan has a high tolerance, so you can use the jade bottle."

As soon as he finished speaking, "Lock Whip" Yan Qi immediately praised, "Good, that's perfect." Saying this, he first poured a cup of wine for Ji Xianglan and handed the green jade bottle to Lan Tianpeng.

Lan Tianpeng took the bottle, but said somewhat embarrassedly, "Isn't this a bit inappropriate?"

Ji Xianglan, however, generously said, "Didn't you just say we're brothers? Why be so formal?" Lan Tianpeng smiled, brought the bottle to his nose, and exclaimed, "Good wine!"

Yan Qi, the "Suozi Bian," immediately smiled and said, "This is my mistress's homemade grape green wine. It's sweet and delicious, very nourishing, and good for your health. Young master, you should have a few more sips."

Lan Tianpeng exclaimed in surprise, about to say, "Miss Ji is also good at brewing wine?" Suddenly remembering that Ji Xianglan also had the surname Ji, he blurted out, "Miss Ji's surname is Ji, how come Brother Ji also has the surname Ji?"

Ji Xianglan smiled faintly and said very naturally, "My mother has no brothers, so I took my mother's surname." After saying that, she took the opportunity to raise her glass and said with a smile, "So Brother Lan is a thoughtful person. I'll toast you."

Lan Tianpeng blushed at her words and quickly... With a humble remark, he raised the small green jade bottle, took a small sip, and exclaimed sincerely, "Indeed, it's mellow and delicious!" He then looked up at Ji Xianglan and Yan Qi, asking, "Now, can we talk about why you two followed me all the way to the rooftop?"

Ji Xianglan nodded and smiled, but Yan Qi interrupted with a laugh, "Let me tell you. That day at the restaurant, when I met Shao Guyan, I thought he looked familiar, but I wasn't sure, because when I accompanied my master to Lengxiang Valley to visit the old hero Lan, the young master had just returned from hunting with an old steward..."

Lan Tianpeng immediately interjected, "That was the old steward, Lan Fu."

"Lock Whip" Yan Qi immediately said with a sudden realization, "That's right, that's right. The old steward's name is Lan Fu. Young Master, do you remember? When you passed by this old man, this old man was leading two horses and nodded to you?"

Lan Tianpeng was now completely convinced of "Lock Whip" and Ji Xianglan. Although he couldn't remember, many of the servants of his friends who were visiting his father had nodded to him as a sign of respect. So he smiled and said, "It seems like that happened, but I'm not very bright and can't remember it now."

"Lingzibian" Yan Qi laughed and said, "So many heroes have gone to Cold Fragrance Valley to visit Elder Lan. Young Master, you might have the mind to remember those people, but would you remember the servants waiting for their master outside the manor gate so clearly? Let me tell you, I often visit friends and acquaintances with my master, and I've met countless young masters, young heroes, and young lords. So, that day at the restaurant, I thought for a long time before I remembered it was you." Lan Tianpeng nodded in agreement.

At this point, Yan Qi suddenly frowned and said, "However, based on my decades of experience in the martial world, there are quite a few suspicious things about your friend." Lan Tianpeng was startled and couldn't help but exclaim "Eh?" He asked with concern, "Uncle Yan, are you referring to Bai Yufu and his wife?"

Ji Xianglan, who was chewing chicken nearby, suddenly asked in a mischievous whisper, "Do they seem like a loving and respectful couple to you?" Lan Tianpeng was speechless because he felt that Bai Yufu and "Double Swords Piao Hong" didn't seem like a couple, but rather like a master and servant, a subordinate and a superior.

Seeing that Lan Tianpeng remained silent, Ji Xianglan continued, "Because I noticed that when they were talking to you, their words were evasive and they exchanged glances, which aroused my suspicion and led me to follow you to Chengnan Lake." She paused, then suddenly shook her head and sighed, saying, "Unexpectedly, when Uncle Yan and I were circling your and that Bai's pleasure boat to investigate, suddenly many pleasure boats and pleasure boats appeared, blocking our small boat. It seems they didn't mean it, but they deliberately intercepted us."

Lan Tianpeng's heart skipped a beat upon hearing this, and he blurted out, "Is that so?"

"The 'Rope Whip' Yan Qi interjected, 'That's why we've always suspected that the young man surnamed Bai is highly suspicious and definitely not an ordinary person.'

Lan Tianpeng already had some suspicions, so he asked with concern, 'Uncle Yan, what kind of people do you think they are?'

Ji Xianglan interjected, 'We don't know what kind of people they are yet, but we'll find out one day.' After pausing, she suddenly changed the subject and asked with concern, 'That day, after we broke free from the entanglement, when we encountered that young man surnamed Bai's pleasure boat again, you were nowhere to be seen. Did you ask to go ashore yourself, or were you influenced by the young man surnamed Bai?'" "?"

Lan Tianpeng smiled naturally and said, "I was eager to come here while I was still in the city. Brother Bai insisted that I swim across the South Lake and see the lively scene there before I set off."

Ji Xianglan glanced at Yan Qi, the "Suozibian," and continued to ask, "So, it wasn't that young man surnamed Bai who sent you?"

Lan Tianpeng's heart skipped a beat, and he immediately became more vigilant, but he still smiled naturally and said, "I came to Tiantai on my master's orders, and it has nothing to do with anyone else." He paused, then suddenly frowned, asking in confusion, "Brother Ji and Uncle Yan, how did you know I was coming here?"

Yan Qi quickly replied, "My young master and I were very worried when we saw that the young master was no longer on the painted boat. We were afraid that the young master had been fooled, so we hurriedly went ashore to inquire. Finally, we heard that the young master had been asking about the 'Ouyang Family' in Tiantai, and that's when we concluded that the young master had come to Tiantai County. Because I know that there is no 'Ouyang Family' in Tiantai."

Sitting silently beside Lan Tianpeng, Ji Xianglan suddenly asked with concern, "Is there really a 'Ouyang Family' here?" Lan

Tianpeng nodded without hesitation, "Yes, there is indeed a 'Ouyang Family,' but due to the passage of time, it has long been forgotten by the martial arts world."

Yan Qi, the "Rope Whip," suddenly interjected, "Why has the young master changed into this bright silver robe that is neither silk nor satin, and why does he also have an extraordinary bright silver sword?"

Lan Tianpeng simply said frankly, "My purpose in coming here on the orders of the commander is to find a senior master from the Ouyang Family and inherit his clothing, sword, and other belongings."

Before he could finish speaking, Yan Qi, the "Rope Whip," interrupted, "Originally, I didn't want to speak frankly, but the young master has become wary of me and my young master, and naturally has doubts."

Lan Tianpeng blushed slightly, realizing his thoughts had been seen through. Fortunately, it was already dark, and Yan Qi and Ji Xianglan might not see it. He quickly explained, "Uncle Yan and Brother Ji are old friends. Please speak freely."

Yan Qi, known as "Lock Whip," immediately nodded in understanding and said, "In that case, I'll be so bold as to say that what the young master is wearing and what he carries at his waist are the clothes and sword of the former 'Silver-Clad Swordsman.'"

Lan Tianpeng wasn't surprised or taken aback, because the former "Silver-Clad Swordsman" was renowned throughout the martial arts world and was hailed as one of the "Three Eccentrics of the Universe." Many people had naturally seen his clothes and sword. Therefore, he nodded without hesitation and said, "That's right, the Silver-Clad Swordsman was indeed given to me by the old man."

Yan Qi continued, "The Silver-Clad Swordsman's swordsmanship is superb. Among the top sword masters in the martial arts world, none can match him. Moreover, no one knows his real name. Now, the young master has openly appeared in the martial arts world wearing his clothes and sword, so he must have mastered the true essence of the 'Silver-Clad Swordsman's' swordsmanship. And the young master has been inquiring about the 'Ouyang Family' of Tiantai along the way. Now that he has left Tiantai, he is wearing a silver robe and carrying a silver sword. Isn't this an open call to action for the martial arts world? Is the 'Silver-Clad Swordsman' surnamed Ouyang, and is now living in seclusion on Tiantai Mountain?"

Lan Tianpeng was startled, but calmly smiled and said, "The Ouyang Family of Tiantai is only here to retrieve the clothes and sword. The 'Silver-Clad Swordsman' is neither surnamed Ouyang nor living in seclusion in the Central Plains." "

The 'Rope Whip' Yan Qi's eyes flashed upon hearing this, and he couldn't help but glance at the silently sitting Ji Xianglan before continuing, "According to the speculations of the heroes of the martial world, the 'Silver-Clad Swordsman' was struck in several vital points by the 'Flying Cloud Pen,' and died from his injuries many years ago."

Before Yan Qi could finish speaking, Lan Tianpeng immediately shook his head and smiled, saying, "These legends are completely unfounded. My master, the 'Silver-Clad Swordsman's' senior uncle, was taught the 'Acupoint Shifting Divine Skill' from a young age. Although my master struck several of his vital points, it had no effect whatsoever."

Ji Xianglan interjected, "Everyone in the martial world knows that your master and the 'Silver-Clad Swordsman' were enemies. I wonder when they reconciled." Seeing that

Ji Xianglan seemed to already know his background, Lan Tianpeng became even more vigilant. When asked, he could only coldly smile and say, "It's all thanks to that villain 'Black Hand Sanlang' who exposed his vicious schemes. That's

why my master, on his deathbed, told me the secret message to come and retrieve the sword and robe." Upon seeing Lan Tianpeng's cold smile, Ji Xianglan immediately said sadly, "Brother Lan's suspicion only makes me more hesitant to speak frankly. You should know that I chased after you through the night because I was concerned for your safety. Although I know some of your family background and the details of the old hero Lan's murder, I tried my best to avoid discussing the currently world-renowned 'Vajra Subduing Demon Treasure Record' when you came to Tiantai."

Before Ji Xianglan could finish speaking, Lan Tianpeng immediately and frankly said, "The 'Vajra Subduing Demon Treasure Record' is practically defunct; it's no longer a Buddhist scripture that's been widely discussed..." Yan

Qi, the "Rope Whip," suddenly interjected, asking, "I heard that a portion of it is in your master's 'Flying Cloud's Last Words.' Your master's feud with the 'Silver-Clad Swordsman' was over that very treasure record."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng replied without hesitation, "I can guarantee with my integrity that my master's feud with my senior master was absolutely not caused by the 'Vajra Subduing Demon Treasure Record.' As for why, that's a secret of our sect, and I cannot disclose it to outsiders."

Yan Qi, the "Rope Whip," then warned, "The 'Silver-Clad Swordsman' made many promises to sword fights back then, and he still keeps them. Young Master, having inherited his robes and sword, will you also keep the promises he didn't keep?"

Lan Tianpeng replied without hesitation, "Of course." "

The 'Rope Whip' Yan Qi and Ji Xianglan were both shocked upon hearing this, their expressions changing simultaneously. Yan Qi solemnly asked, 'Among these unfulfilled appointments are Elder Fajue of Shaolin Temple, Immortal Xuanqing of Kunlun Sect, and the "Ice River Heroine" from the Western Regions, and most importantly, the "Jade Void Master" of Kongtong Sect.'

Before Yan Qi could finish speaking, Lan Tianpeng coldly smiled and said, 'Once you have avenged your master, go and fulfill these appointments immediately.'

Yan Qi's expression changed again upon hearing this, and he said with concern, 'Young Valley Master, this old man means very well, but you absolutely cannot go to these appointments.'

Lan Tianpeng raised his eyebrows and his eyes flashed with cold light, and he immediately asked in a deep voice, 'Why?'

Ji Xianglan, who was standing to the side, immediately changed the subject and said, 'Let's not talk about these for now. Now I ask you, where are you going after leaving Tiantai? As for Brother Lan's master-killing enemy, "Black Hand Sanlang," I will take care of capturing him for you.'"

Lan Tianpeng's heart skipped a beat upon hearing this, and he asked in confusion, "Brother Ji, how can you be so confident?" Ji

Xianglan replied vaguely, "As for why, I can't explain it to you now; you'll understand later, Brother Lan. As for the two thieves, Dui and his ilk, who burned down Lengqu Manor and murdered Old Hero Lan, I'll accompany you to find them."

Before he could finish speaking, Lan Tianpeng shook his head and said, "I don't want to go find 'Black Hand Sanlang' and the two thieves, Dui, right now."

Ji Xianglan and Yan Qi were taken aback and blurted out, "Then where are you going now?"

Lan Tianpeng said calmly, "I want to go to Kuocang Mountain first."

Ji Xianglan and Yan Qi were shocked, their expressions changing drastically, and they exclaimed in unison, "You're going to Kuocang Mountain?"

Lan Tianpeng nodded proudly and said, "That's right. Looking at the current martial arts world, among the younger generation, the 'Golden Thread Without Shadow' swordsmanship should be one of the top masters." Before he could finish speaking, Yan Qi, nicknamed "Rope Whip, "

said dismissively, "That's not necessarily true..."

Lan Tianpeng immediately chimed in, "I've heard there's another one, Lan Xiangji."

Yan Qi suddenly asked with concern, "Has the young master ever met that Miss Lan?"

Lan Tianpeng shook his head, smiling humorously, "Not only have I never met that Miss Lan, but I don't know where I'll find her in the future."

As soon as he finished speaking, Ji Xianglan suddenly stood up, excitedly saying, "Let's go! Let's go find 'Golden Thread Shadowless' now. I've been wanting to test my swordsmanship with her, and then we'll go find Lan Xiangji together."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately frowned and hesitated, saying, "But... you and Yan Shi both have horses..."

Ji Xianglan immediately interjected, "It's alright, I'll have Yan Qi give you his horse."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately panicked and said, "How can that be?"

Yan Qi, standing to the side, laughed heartily and said, "I, Yan Qi, know nothing about swordsmanship; I'd only be a burden if I went. " "Young Master, please ride my old man's horse with my young master. I'll wait for you at the first inn after entering Xianju City through the east gate." As he spoke, he took the jade cup from Ji Xianglan's hand and the wine bottle from Lan Tianpeng's hand, wrapped up the leftover braised dishes, and put them all into the saddlebag.

Seeing that Lan Tianpeng was still hesitant, Ji Xianglan immediately urged, "Let's hurry up and travel through the night. We can reach Kuocang Mountain by noon tomorrow." He paused, then deliberately said sarcastically, "Or perhaps Brother Lan disdains to travel with me."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately got up in a panic and explained, "Brother Ji, please don't misunderstand. The reason I hesitated is that I felt it would be too unfair to Uncle Yan..."

Ji Xianglan immediately said somewhat angrily, "Didn't Uncle Yan Qi already arrange to wait for us in Xianju City?" As soon as he finished speaking, Yan Qi had already pulled his horse in front of Lan Tianpeng, and at the same time, he said with a smile, "Let's talk on the way." "

Helpless, Lan Tianpeng could only thank him and take the horse. However, Ji Xianglan was already on her horse. So, he bowed to Yan Qi again, said 'Goodbye,' and mounted his horse. The saying goes, 'A good steed needs a skilled rider,' meaning that even the fastest horse cannot reach its full potential if the rider is not skilled. Lan Tianpeng had loved riding and archery since childhood and was a first-rate rider. So, as soon as he dismounted, the yellow horse seemed to leap out of the woods, galloping forward like a rabbit."

Not to be outdone, Ji Xianglan spurred her horse on, giving chase. Both horses were exceptional, selected from the finest of their kind, galloping with incredible speed, especially off-road, kicking up two billowing trails of earth that rose into the night sky. Although the city of Tiantai was dotted with lights, the two riders, eager to ride at full speed, steered slightly southwest.

The two men and their two horses sped past the main street outside Xiguan City! As the distance between them widened, a faint, sharp female shout suddenly rang out! Lan Tianpeng's heart skipped a beat, and he immediately scanned the fields. Ji Xianglan, sensing something amiss, asked with concern, "Brother Lan, is something wrong?"

Lan Tianpeng hesitated, then said, "I just heard a woman's shout."

Ji Xianglan was about to say, "You must have misheard," when a clear, angry female shout indeed came from the right.

"You filthy scoundrel!" The shout was laced with a lewd, male laugh. Just as the angry shout faded, Ji Xianglan charged ahead, dashing towards a patch of overgrown grass in the shadows to her right.

Lan Tianpeng spurred his horse to give chase, and upon closer inspection, discovered that the shadows were actually a desolate graveyard overgrown with knee-high weeds. Within the graveyard, a man wielding a sword was fighting a woman in green, also wielding a sword! The man, dressed in a grey-green robe and wearing a scholar's cap, appeared refined, but his swordplay was purely physical, forcing the woman to cry out in anger from time to time. As they were

observing, Ji Xianglan, leading the charge, shouted crisply, "You dog, you're courting death!" With that shout, she leaped into the air, and simultaneously, a dazzling flash of cold light erupted, like a rainbow descending from the sky, aimed directly at the man in the graveyard—the man in the grey-green robe immediately stepped aside, dodging the woman's sword and rushing to meet Ji Xianglan's attack.

A sharp clang rang out, sparks flying, followed by two swift flashes of sword light. A cry of alarm escaped, and the man in the grey-green robe was sent flying back three zhang (approximately 10 meters). Lan Tianpeng, riding close by, finally saw that the man was pale and terrified. His robe was torn to shreds by Ji Xianglan in a single exchange, and her sword had been severed in two.

Still reeling from the shock, the man with the broken sword suddenly uttered a soft "Ah!" to Ji Xianglan. Ji Xianglan was also startled, clearly recognizing him. The man regained his composure, glanced at Lan Tianpeng, and then turned and fled in terror towards Tiantai City! Seeing Ji Xianglan standing still, Lan Tianpeng knew he was letting the man escape and naturally didn't give chase. However, Ji Xianglan, quickly regaining her composure, stomped her boots and muttered in frustration, "Oh dear, we can't let him escape!"

Lan Tianpeng had already thought they shouldn't have let the middle-aged man go so easily, because his moves were vulgar and he had insulted the woman. According to martial arts rules, the most serious offense would be cutting off his nose and ear, and the least serious offense would be a stern warning. Ji Xianglan's easy escape was truly incomprehensible. Hearing Ji Xianglan's frustrated mutterings, he immediately blurted out, "Let my brother catch him!" In the blink of an eye, his figure moved like smoke, like a shooting star, a flash of light, and he was already in front of the fleeing middle-aged man, his hand already gripping the man's right wrist. The

middle-aged man, who was running wildly, only felt a blur before his eyes, his right wrist was already gripped, and before he could resist, his legs buckled, and he collapsed to his knees. Ji Xianglan was shocked, and the girl in green gasped in surprise; both of them were stunned. Lan Tianpeng lifted the middle-aged man's body with a slight movement of his arm, about to reprimand him, when Ji Xianglan hurriedly stopped him, saying, "Brother Lan, wait!"

Lan Tianpeng was taken aback, and he and the girl in green looked at Ji Xianglan in confusion. Ji Xianglan looked embarrassed, paused slightly, and then reluctantly said, "I have met both of this fellow's masters before. Please, Brother Lan, for my sake, let him go. I will find a way to tell his masters what happened and have him severely punished."

As the saying goes, "When beating a dog, you have to consider its owner." This servant was, of course, much heavier than a dog. Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately smiled faintly and said, "So that's how it is." With that, he slowly released the middle-aged man's right wrist. The middle-aged man didn't even thank him, but with a slight exertion of his inner energy, he leaped into the air, displaying his lightness skill, and sped towards Tiantai City.

Just then, a hurried, strong voice called out from the direction of the woods: "Xin'er, Xin'er..."

The voice had barely faded when the green-clad girl standing not far from Ji Xianglan responded, "Father, I'm here."

Lan Tianpeng and Ji Xianglan turned to look and saw a figure rushing towards them from the western woods. Upon seeing this, the green-clad girl immediately waved her slender left hand and said crisply again, "Father, come quickly! That person from the Kongtong Sect has been driven away by these two young heroes."

Lan Tianpeng's heart skipped a beat. So that person was a lay disciple of the Kongtong Sect. How did Ji Xianglan know them? Before he could finish his thought, the black figure that had rushed towards them was already close. The man was about sixty years old, with a gray beard, a slender build, wearing a gray woolen robe, and bright, piercing eyes. His temples were prominent, indicating a profound level of internal energy cultivation. Lan Tianpeng, after observing them closely, hurried over to greet them.

At this moment, the girl in green pointed respectfully at Ji Xianglan and Lan Tianpeng, then turned to the old man and said, "Father, these two young heroes are the ones who drove away the bandits."

Upon hearing this, the old man immediately clasped his hands in gratitude to Lan Tianpeng and Ji Xianglan, saying, "I am deeply grateful for your righteous assistance in saving my daughter's life."

Before the old man could speak, Lan Tianpeng and Ji Xianglan simultaneously cupped their hands and said, "It is only right to help those in need; there is no need for such gratitude, seniors."

The old man laughed heartily and introduced himself, saying, "I am Jiang Yuncong, and I live in Tiancong Manor in the woods behind us. My meddlesome friends have taken my weapon, the 'Nine-Ringed Saber,' as my bandit name."

Ji Xianglan's eyes lit up upon hearing this, and she immediately cupped her hands and said, "So you are Master Jiang, the 'Nine-Ringed Saber'! I have long admired you." "

Nine-Ring Saber" Jiang Yuncong laughed again, pointing to the girl in green, and said with a smile, "This is my daughter, Mei Xin. She is my only daughter, and I didn't make her take on a new master. I just slightly modified my own set of basic saber techniques and taught her a set of goose feather saber techniques."

Lan Tianpeng immediately praised, "Your daughter's saber techniques are proficient. Her parrying, chopping, slashing, sweeping, and thrusting are all at a high level. It's just that when she encounters such a despicable person, she can't unleash the full power of her saber techniques when she's angry."

"Nine-Ring Saber" Jiang Yuncong was deeply moved and immediately asked with concern, "Young hero, what is your esteemed name, and where do you live?"

Lan Tianpeng immediately replied humbly, "I dare not presume. I have lived in the 'Cold Fragrance Valley' of Motian Ridge for generations."

Before he could finish speaking, "Nine-Ring Saber" Jiang Yuncong interrupted excitedly, "May I ask about the 'Golden Back Saber' Elder Hero Lan?"

Lan Tianpeng, upon hearing his father's name, immediately bowed respectfully and said, "That is my father." "

Nine-Ring Blade" immediately stepped forward and warmly grasped Lan Tianpeng's arms, laughing heartily, and said, "So it's Young Master Lan, a martial arts master from a family with ancestral skills. No wonder you could see through my daughter's swordsmanship at a glance! Haha, years ago, I personally went to Cold Fragrance Manor to ask your father for fifty sword techniques, and your father used my swordsmanship against me. I was both ashamed and grateful, and I admired him to the core."

The green-clad girl beside him, seeing that her father was only laughing with Lan Tianpeng and neglecting Ji Xianglan, was afraid that Ji Xianglan would be displeased, so she quickly reminded her, "Father, you're only talking to yourself, why don't you invite the two young heroes into the manor for tea?" Upon hearing this, "

Nine-Ringed Saber" immediately said apologetically and cheerfully, "I'm so sorry, I've been rude. Xin'er, quickly go and get your horses..."

Lan Tianpeng and Ji Xianglan quickly declined, saying, "We had an urgent matter to attend to, so we traveled day and night..."

As soon as Lan Tianpeng spoke, "Nine-Ringed Saber" realized he hadn't yet asked Ji Xianglan's name, so he changed his question to, "May I ask this young hero..."

Ji Xianglan quickly replied respectfully, "My name is Ji Xianglan, and I've lived in Huarong for generations."

Seeing that "Nine-Ringed Saber" didn't show any surprise, Lan Tianpeng quickly added, "Brother Ji is the son of the 'Frost Sword Divine Traces' heroine Ji..."

Upon hearing this, Ji Xianglan looked anxious and hurriedly tugged at Lan Tianpeng's sleeve, about to stop him, when "Nine-Ring Saber" smiled with delight and said, "Just now, when Young Hero Ji mentioned that we've lived in Huarong for generations, my wife was reminded of your mother, Heroine Ji. Haha, we're all friends here. Come, quickly invite us into the manor for tea, even if it's just for a moment."

As he spoke, he warmly and affectionately led the way. Lan Tianpeng felt that "Nine-Ring Saber" was quite old and earnestly trying to persuade him to stay, so he couldn't refuse too much. Besides, going to Kuocang Mountain wasn't urgent. Therefore, he smiled at Ji Xianglan, seeking her consent. Seeing that Lan Tianpeng intended to go, and that Jiang Meixin had already brought the horse, Ji Xianglan could only humbly say, "I'm afraid I'll be too much of a disturbance to you, senior."

"Nine-Ringed Saber" was overjoyed to see Lan Tianpeng and Ji Xianglan accept the invitation, laughing heartily and saying, "It's a great pleasure to have you two young heroes grace us with your presence; how could it be a disturbance?"

The four of them crossed the dense forest and soon saw a manor with a wooden wall built of wooden stakes on the plain ahead, with a wide wooden gate in the center, the gate tightly closed.

The manor was shrouded in darkness; even the watchtowers spaced five or six zhang apart were dark. As they approached the gate, a shout came from the watchtower, which "Nine-Ringed Saber" answered. When the gate opened, four burly men with swords stood there, their faces still tense.

Upon seeing the men, "Nine-Ringed Saber" immediately excitedly ordered, "Quickly inform Jiang Sheng to prepare a feast in the hall immediately, and feed the young lady's horse properly."

The four men responded in unison, and one of them turned and galloped deeper into the manor. Although Lan Tianpeng knew he couldn't stop him, he still couldn't help but humbly say, "Senior Jiang, is there any need for you to go to such trouble?"

"Nine-Ring Blade" laughed heartily and said, "A drink and a chat will only enhance the enjoyment, haha..."

As he moved forward, Lan Tianpeng glanced around. Inside the manor gate was a vast, smooth plaza, barren of any vegetation. At the far end of the plaza, nestled among lush trees, stood a magnificent mansion. A black-lacquered gate, a glazed-tile gatehouse, and five high steps led to a green lion statue on either side, which, like a burly man rushing forward, had already opened the gate. On either side of the plaza, among the sparse trees, were also neatly arranged small courtyards, significantly smaller than the central mansion, barely qualifying as individual residences.

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