Wandering the Martial World [Complete] - 2

Chapter Eight: Peerless Fragrance

"Now you know who my senior sister is, right?" Hanxiang's words confirmed that Xiao Tianci had guessed her identity correctly. Therefore, her senior sister was naturally Ye Bingying.

"I know who your senior sister is, but I have nothing to do with her." Xiao Tianci was still upset after being slapped by a girl, so he wasn't in a good mood.

"Is that so? Then do you know my senior sister?"

"So what if I know her? So what if I don't?"

"Whether you know her or not, the person my senior sister is talking about is you. I'm taking you to see her right now." Hanxiang wasn't one to reason. Before she finished speaking, she attacked, but not at Xiao Tianci; instead, she pounced on Xiao Yuya.

Xiao Yuya hadn't even reacted before being subdued by Hanxiang. Xiao Tianci, fearing the consequences, could only glare helplessly.

"I've heard your kung fu is quite good, but I'm too lazy to fight you. I'll take this woman away now. You'd better come with me obediently, or I can't guarantee what might happen to her." "Hanxiang said coldly.

"Let go of Sister Yuya, and I'll go with you." Xiao Tianci was truly furious. This girl was too troublesome. She slapped him the moment they met, and a moment later she kidnapped his beloved, while he was helpless.

"I'm not that stupid. If I let her go, would you still come with me to see my senior sister? You'd better come with me obediently. I'll naturally let her go when I see my senior sister." Hanxiang ignored him, picked up Xiao Yuya, and walked out.

"Now that you're here, do you think you can just leave like this?" Hanxiang was stopped as soon as she stepped out the door. "Xiao Tianfeng of Sword Lake Manor greets Princess Hanxiang." It was none other than Xiao Jinghong's second son, Xiao Tianling's younger brother, Xiao Tianfeng. Xiao Tianfeng had been personally taught martial arts by Xiao Jinghong. He had been in seclusion for some time and had just emerged today when he heard that his elder brother had been injured by the Demonic Sect. Now, he had encountered a heavyweight figure from the Demonic Sect—Hanxiang. Naturally, he wouldn't let it go.

"You think you can stop me? But I don't have time to teach you a lesson right now. If you don't want your sister to die, you'd better get out of my way." Hanxiang was determined to carry out her threat.

"Feng'er, let her go. Yuya's life is more important." Xiao Jinghong's voice came.

"Yes, Father." Xiao Tianfeng replied respectfully.

"If you dare to harm my daughter, I will not let you go, even if you go to the ends of the earth." Xiao Jinghong said coldly to Hanxiang, but Hanxiang didn't care and urged Xiao Tianci, "Xiao Tianci, come with me now, or I'll give your lover to that lecherous Yun Qi."

"You dare!" Xiao Tianci was both angry and helpless. The only option was to go with Hanxiang.

"Master, I'll go with her first. I'll definitely rescue Sister Yuya," Xiao Tianci said to Xiao Jinghong.

"Be careful, this little devil is not easy to deal with," Xiao Jinghong warned him.

Xiao Tianci followed Hanxiang and ran all the way, finally stopping in front of a small building after most of the day.

"Come in with me now, Senior Sister is inside." Just then, a beautiful girl came out and greeted Hanxiang, "Princess, you're back. Miss is waiting for you inside."

"Liuyun, watch this girl, don't let her escape or hurt her. I'll take him to see Senior Sister first." Hanxiang said and led the way, with Xiao Tianci following behind like a puppet.

"Senior Sister, I've brought Xiao Tianci to you," Hanxiang said coquettishly to a woman. Xiao Tianci looked at her, although he had never seen her face before, he recognized her at a glance as Ye Bingying. Two years had passed, and she hadn't changed much, still looking the same as before, giving off a cold aura. She turned around, suddenly bursting into laughter, like a hundred flowers blooming, eclipsing the world's color. "Xiang'er, why did you bring him here?"

"Senior Sister, didn't you say he was your lover?" Hanxiang looked puzzled.

"Xiang'er, are you mistaken? When did I say he was my lover?" Ye Bingying didn't seem to be acting.

"But I clearly heard you say that a few days ago."

"A few days ago? Oh, I know. I said it on purpose to annoy Dongfang Xuanji, why did you take it seriously?" Ye Bingying looked amused.

"I thought it was true. I saw him being so intimate with that woman, so I brought him here to let you vent your anger." Hanxiang looked aggrieved.

"Sister Ying, it's been two years, and you're not even going to treat me?" Xiao Tianci roughly understood what was going on. "Also, could you have someone bring my sister Yuya here so she won't worry about me?" "

You're starting to go astray now. You were so well-behaved when I first met you two years ago." Ye Bingying looked at him with a complicated expression.

"People always change. Sister Ying, I remember you said you'd come to find me back then, why haven't you come in the past two years? Do you go back on your word, Sister Ying?" Xiao Tianci, knowing there was nothing wrong now, started to become a little presumptuous.

"How could I dare to go to you? Dongfang Xuanji would fight me to the death." Ye Bingying wasn't so easily fooled.

"Why wouldn't Sister Xuanji let you come to find me? She hasn't come to see me more than a few times in the past two years. Sister Ying, if you want to go back on your word, just tell me directly. I'll definitely forgive you." Xiao Tianci seemed to have gotten into a lot of verbal sparring these past few years; his verbal skills had become increasingly formidable.

"Alright, I won't argue with you anymore. I apologize on behalf of Xiang'er. You can leave now." "Ye Bingying has given him the order to leave. She had no choice; she was afraid of arguing with him endlessly.

'Sister Ying, are you really that heartless? I finally get to see you, and now you want to kick me out?' Xiao Tianci feigned a pitiful look.

'You really don't want to leave? Then you can stay here.' Hanxiang, who had just gone out and was nowhere to be seen, came back in.

'None of your business.' Xiao Tianci was still angry, remembering how she had hit him. 'Where's my Sister Yuya?'

'Oh, she went home.' Hanxiang said calmly.

'You...'

'What... what did I do? Didn't you just say you wanted to stay with my senior sister? What, a man's a man, not keeping his word?' Hanxiang was a typical little devil, never forgiving.

'Don't worry, I had Liuyun take her back. I can guarantee she'll be safe before she gets to Jianhu Manor, but after that, it's none of my business.' It was unclear whether this was meant as comfort or something else."

"Fine, stay here if you want, but I don't want to see you. If you're willing to stay out of Yingjie's and my sight, I'll stay." Xiao Tianci truly didn't dare see Hanxiang. Hanxiang was too tempting for someone like him with a weak will (mainly because of beautiful women). However, he knew this girl was not to be trifled with, so he hoped she could stay away from him, otherwise he couldn't guarantee what might happen.

"You think I won't show up just because you tell me not to? Who do you think you are? Senior Sister hasn't married you yet. If Senior Sister really marries you, you'll be my brother-in-law, then I might consider listening to your words." Hanxiang didn't know why she so wanted Ye Bingying to get married.

"Xiang'er, stop making a fuss. If he wants to leave, let him leave. I've already told you that I said he was my lover just to annoy Dongfang Xuanji, it's not true. Why do you want him to stay?" Ye Bingying spoke up.

"But, Senior Sister, you..." Hanxiang wanted to say something more.

"Xiang'er, a guest has arrived." Ye Bingying interrupted her.

"Ye Bingying, we meet again." A very pleasant voice came from nearby. Xiao Tianci was delighted to hear the voice and quickly turned around. Dongfang Xuanji, dressed in flowing white robes, stood not far away, like a fairy descended from heaven.

"Sister Xuan..." Xiao Tianci's voice trembled slightly.

"You're here too. How have you been these past few days?" Dongfang Xuanji's voice softened considerably, her tone revealing concern.

"Dongfang Xuanji, you didn't come just to find your little lover, did you?" Ye Bingying retorted sharply.

"I came only to have one last match with you," Dongfang Xuanji's voice sounded somewhat melancholic. "I entered the martial world at 16, and it's been a full 10 years now. My younger brother is an adult now, and I've decided to officially pass on my position as head of the family to him next month, and then I'll no longer meddle in the affairs of the martial world. I've been obsessed with martial arts since I was a child, and because of it, I've lost many wonderful things, but I don't regret it. People in the martial world call us two great miracles of martial arts. I'm here today only to see who is superior before I officially retire from the martial world, so that I can have no regrets in this life."

"Since you've said so, of course I'll grant your wish. But do you think it's necessary for us to have another match? We've already sparred many times, and there's never been a clear winner," Ye Bingying said nonchalantly.

"We must decide a winner today," Dongfang Xuanji said calmly.

"Sister Xuan, can you please not fight?" Xiao Tianci asked cautiously.

"No," Dongfang Xuanji replied without hesitation.

"But I'm worried you'll both get hurt. You've had that experience before," Xiao Tianci persisted in

trying to persuade her. "Don't say anything more. I'm going to fight her today no matter what, " Dongfang Xuanji seemed determined.

~~ ... Suddenly, his face turned deathly pale. He saw the situation he least wanted to see. The scene seemed to have stopped, but their hands were still tightly pressed together. Soon, white steam rose from their heads; they had actually started competing in internal energy. Competing in internal energy wouldn't normally be a big deal, but when two martial arts masters of similar skill were clashing, it became a serious matter. Unless someone could separate them, they would continue fighting until both were exhausted. Hanxiang also sensed something was wrong and tried to separate them, but her internal energy was insufficient. If she tried, she would likely injure herself, and the two combatants would likely be in mortal danger. "What should we do? Can you separate them?" Hanxiang finally asked Xiao Tianci. "I can't do anything either. Their skill is too high; no one can separate them," Xiao Tianci said anxiously. Seeing that the two combatants were increasingly weakened, Xiao Tianci finally stepped forward. With great determination, he channeled all his internal energy and then separated their hands from each other. However, he knew his skill was insufficient; normal methods wouldn't work. But there was another way: to draw all their power to himself, meaning he would have to withstand their combined attack. "Pfft!" Under their combined assault, Xiao Tianci flew more than two zhang away, spitting out a mouthful of blood and swaying precariously. A figure flew over and caught the nearly collapsing Xiao Tianci. "Young Master, how are you? Are you alright? Please don't scare me!" It was Qian'er, but she was almost crying; she had clearly seen how severely Xiao Tianci was injured. At this moment, Dongfang Xuanji and the others also arrived. "Tianci, how could you be so foolish? How can I ever face my cousin again?" Dongfang Xuanji's voice was low and gentle. She placed one hand on Xiao Tianci's back, continuously channeling her true energy into him. "Sister Xuan, I... I really didn't want anything to happen to you..." Xiao Tianci managed to utter a single sentence before finally fainting. "Get out of my way!" Qian'er shouted wildly, a voice rarely heard from the usually gentle Qian'er. "All you know is martial arts, all you know is vying for the title of number one in the world! If you want to compete, go ahead and compete yourselves! Why make Young Master pay the price for you?" "Qian'er, don't be like this. Perhaps he can still be saved." Dongfang Xuanji didn't know what to say. Although she was a genius in martial arts, she didn't know what to do at this moment. As for Xiao Tianci, she didn't know what her feelings for him were. It didn't seem like she saw him as a younger brother, nor did it seem like she saw him as a lover. But now, seeing him on the verge of death because of her, her heart was in turmoil. Ye Bingying was also filled with thoughts. She hadn't expected Xiao Tianci to act this way. "Young Master, Qian'er will always be with you from now on. I'm not going anywhere." Qian'er murmured to herself. Perhaps even Xiao Tianci hadn't expected that Qian'er loved him so deeply. "Wait," Qian'er was stopped by someone. It was Hanxiang. "Senior Sister, I want to ask you a question. Do you love him?" Hanxiang turned to Ye Bingying. "I...I really don't know." Ye Bingying's mind was in turmoil. "Then, Senior Sister, if he dies, will you be sad?" Hanxiang asked again. "I..." Ye Bingying thought for a long time, probably recalling her two interactions with Xiao Tianci, and finally spoke, "If he dies, I think I'll never be happy again in this life." "Alright, I can save him, but Senior Sister, I'm only saving him for you." Hanxiang's words made everyone's spirits lift. "Can you really save him? As long as you're willing to save him, I'll agree to any conditions you want." How devoted Qian'er was. "I saved him only for my senior sister, it has nothing to do with you, and I won't make any demands on you." Hanxiang's tone was different from usual, cold, as if she had thought of something. "Give me the person first, I'll go to his room to heal him. You all stay outside and guard him, don't let anyone in, and don't you come in either." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ When Xiao Tianci woke up, he felt a soft body pressed tightly against him. The fragrance made him realize who this person was, but he didn't understand why Hanxiang was like this with him. Lost in thought, a voice suddenly echoed in his mind, "I'm healing you now. Behave yourself, don't move or think too much. Circulate your energy along the path of my true qi." Xiao Tianci circulated his inner energy using the Free and Unfettered Heart Sutra, the true qi flowing in from where they were touching and then out from their kissing lips, circulating continuously. With each cycle, Xiao Tianci felt his injuries heal considerably... Suddenly, he rolled over and pinned Hanxiang beneath him... This time, Hanxiang didn't say anything, but instead responded with gentle moans beneath him... Finally, the two reached the peak of spiritual desire together. At that moment, they felt their hearts were connected, there were no secrets between them, and they both felt each other's intense love. "Xiao Lang, take care!" Suddenly, Xiao Tianci heard Hanxiang's voice, and at the same time, he fainted. He didn't know how much time had passed before he woke up again, but there was no one around him, and he was already dressed. He couldn't help but wonder if he had just dreamed, but he knew it was definitely not a dream. He tried to circulate his qi and found that not only were his injuries completely healed, but his martial arts had also made great progress. His Xiaoyao Heart Sutra had also advanced from level 10 to level 11. However, what about Hanxiang? What did her words before he fainted mean? He vaguely felt that something was wrong, so he quickly got up and went out of the room. As soon as Qian'er saw him, she rushed over, "Young Master, are you really alright?" Dongfang Xuanji and Ye Bingying also came over and looked at him with concern.

"Don't worry, I'm completely healed. By the way, where's Hanxiang?" Xiao Tianci didn't see Hanxiang.

"She should be in her room. She said she was a little tired and wanted to go back to rest," Ye Bingying replied. "Did you need to see her?"

"Oh, no, I just wanted to thank her for saving my life. Since she's resting, then never mind." Now that he knew Hanxiang was still there, Xiao Tianci wasn't so worried.

"Miss, the princess has left, leaving two letters," Liuyun rushed over. The letter to Xiao Tianci contained only a few words: "Don't let my senior sister down.

Hanxiang

." Xiao Tianci was overwhelmed with emotion. He knew that Hanxiang didn't love him before saving him; she only loved Ye Bingying. During the rescue, a subtle spiritual connection occurred between them, and after that, they both knew that they were destined to be inseparable for life. However, Hanxiang, not wanting to be caught between him and Ye Bingying, quietly left. Hanxiang's parents passed away a long time ago, and she was practically raised by Ye Bingying. Ye Bingying doted on her, so for Hanxiang, Ye Bingying was the only person she truly loved in the world. Ye Bingying had never met a man she liked, and coupled with her status as the sect leader of the Demonic Sect, she had practically no friends and was always very lonely. Now that she finally had a lover, how could she possibly steal her senior sister's only love? Therefore, she chose to leave.

"Sister Bing, Sister Xuan, I want to go back to Sword Lake Manor first. I'll come to find you in a few days," Xiao Tianci said goodbye to them. After this incident, their relationship had progressed rapidly, and Dongfang Xuanji and Ye Bingying had gotten much better, although they still preferred to argue.

"I also need to go home. I'll be holding the succession ceremony on the eighth day of next month. If you have time, come over," Dongfang Xuanji said gently to Xiao Tianci. "Be careful on your journey and remember to take care of yourself."

"While you're at it, please help me find Xiang'er. I also need to go and look for her in the martial world," Ye Bingying said, seemingly reluctant to part.

"Qian'er, come with me."

"Yes, young master." Qian'er happily took Xiao Tianci's arm, her face beaming with happiness.

Chapter Nine: The Rise of the Jianghu (Part 1)

Almost simultaneously, all the major and minor sects in the Jianghu, except for the Demonic Sect, received an invitation.

"On the Dragon Boat Festival, White Horse Manor. We cordially invite all fellow practitioners to discuss the grand plan to resist the demons. ----- Bai Yulou"

Inside Sword Lake Manor, Xiao Jinghong held the invitation in his hand, his face grim.

"Father, you called for me?" Xiao Tianfeng came to Xiao Jinghong's study.

"Feng'er, take a look at this first." Xiao Jinghong handed the invitation to Xiao Tianfeng, "What are your thoughts after reading it?"

"Father, I think Bai Yulou has quite the ambition. In this way, he will become a leader without his knowledge, and his status and influence on the lake will rise sharply." Xiao Tianfeng saw the advantages at a glance.

“That’s right, I think so too. Originally, I wanted to unite Wudang, Emei, and Qingcheng to launch a martial arts tournament, but alas, I didn’t expect Bai Yulou to act so quickly. I underestimated him.” Xiao Jinghong paused, then continued, “Feng’er, I’ve decided to send you to Baima Manor. Your elder brother’s injuries haven’t healed yet, and your two younger sisters aren’t capable of great things, so you’re the best candidate for Baima Manor.”

“Feng’er, although your elder brother is more famous than you in the martial arts world now, I’ve always had the highest hopes for you.” Xiao Jinghong said in a rare, kind tone, “Do you know why I sent your elder brother to Wudang, your sisters to Emei, but left you here?”

"Your eldest brother is very talented and intelligent, but he's not ruthless enough. He's a born hero, but he can't become a successful martial arts overlord. Your younger sister is quite good, but she's still a girl, and it's hard for her to achieve great things. Only you are not only exceptionally intelligent, but also ruthless enough. Of all my children, you are the most like me, and you are the only hope for our Sword Lake Manor to dominate the martial arts world in the future. Feng'er, you must not let me down." "

Father, don't worry, I will definitely not let you down." Xiao Tianfeng seemed very calm.

~~~~~~~``

Xiao Yuya had been back at the manor for seven days. Every day she leaned against the window, waiting for her lover to appear, but she was disappointed time and time again. Xiao Tianci had not returned.

It was already very late. Xiao Yuya sighed softly, turned around and went back to the bedside, preparing to sleep. She was disappointed again tonight. Xiao Tianci still hadn't returned. She didn't know how he was doing. The girl who brought her back had told her that Xiao Tianci would be alright, but he still hadn't come back. How could she not worry? Just

as she was about to go to bed, her slender waist tightened suddenly, followed by the voice he had longed for day and night, "Sister Yuya, have you missed me?"

There was no response for a long time. Xiao Tianci turned Xiao Yuya's body around and was startled. "Sister Yuya, what's wrong? Who bullied you? Tell me and I'll help you get revenge." Xiao Yuya's face was full of tears, and hearing Xiao Tianci's words, she couldn't help but cry even more. "You, do you know how worried I was about you..." Xiao Yuya sobbed.

"Sister Yuya, I'm sorry for making you worry. I won't do it again." Xiao Tianci hugged Xiao Yuya, feeling both touched and guilty. He could have returned earlier, but he and Qian'er had been traveling and playing along the way, turning a journey that should have taken less than a day into three. Now, seeing Xiao Yuya worrying about him day and night while he enjoyed all the tenderness, he felt terrible. "Sister Yuya, I will make it up to you tonight." Xiao Tianci picked up Xiao Yuya and walked towards the bed...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`

"Master, someone from the Dongfang family requests an audience." Early in the morning, someone reported to Xiao Jinghong.

"Quickly, invite them in." He dared not neglect the people from the Dongfang family.

"Dongfang Qin of the Dongfang family greets Master Xiao." It turned out to be the head of Dongfang Xuanji's four guards.

"Miss Dongfang is too polite. May I ask what brings you here?" Xiao Jinghong was very polite.

"Master Xiao is too kind. I dare not give orders, but I have come on my mistress's orders to discuss something." Dongfang Qin said slowly.

“Please speak, young lady.”

“My young lady will be passing on the position of family head to the young master on the eighth day of next month. I’ve come to invite the manor lord to attend the ceremony and to be a witness. I wonder if the manor lord would do me the honor?”

Dongfang Qin said, handing over an invitation.

“Your young lady is too kind. If she wanted me to go, she could have just sent someone to deliver a message. Why bother you to personally deliver the invitation? Please tell your young lady that I will be going to the Dongfang family on time.” Xiao Jinghong would never refuse.

“Then thank you very much, manor lord.” Dongfang Qin paused. “Manor lord, may I ask if your disciple, Young Master Xiao Tianci, is currently in the manor?”

“Tianci?” Xiao Jinghong didn’t expect Dongfang Qin to ask about Xiao Tianci. “I wonder why you ask about him, young lady? Has he offended you in some way?”

“Manor lord, you misunderstand. Young Master Xiao has not offended me. However, I have something to discuss with him. I wonder if he is in the manor?” Dongfang Qin seemed much more polite now.

"I'll go and call him over to see the young lady right away," Xiao Jinghong hurriedly said. "Xiao San, go and fetch Tianci."

"Master, Young Master Tianci hasn't returned yet." Xiao Tianci's status has risen quite a bit now; he's a young master.

"What? He hasn't returned yet?" Xiao Jinghong was about to say something when he suddenly noticed Xiao Yuya's maid, Xiao Cui, standing beside him, seemingly wanting to say something but hesitant to speak. He asked, "Xiao Cui, is there something you want to say?"

"Master, Young Master Tianci returned last night, but..." Xiao Cui hesitated, unable to finish her sentence.

"But what?"

"Young Master Tianci, he... he's been in Miss's room the whole time." Xiao Cui finally blurted out.

"What?" Xiao Jinghong wanted to explode in anger, but then he remembered that Dongfang Qin was still nearby. He was furious; he never imagined that Xiao Tianci and Xiao Yuya had actually been

inseparable for days. "Master Xiao, since Young Master Xiao is in the manor,

could you please call him for me?" Dongfang Qin spoke up at the right moment, breaking the awkward silence. "Alright, of course. Xiao Cui, go and call Tianci here." Xiao Jinghong suppressed his anger.

~~

... Xiao Cui came to call Xiao Tianci, but she was too embarrassed to call him directly, so she woke up Xiao Yuya first and made her play the villain.

Xiao Tianci was a little annoyed. To be honest, although he was nominally Xiao Jinghong's disciple, both of them had their own agendas, so in reality, they weren't like that at all. Although Xiao Tianci was respectful to Xiao Jinghong on the surface, that was entirely because of Xiao Yuya. Although Xiao Jinghong had raised him, he didn't appreciate it at all, because he felt that it was too easy for someone like Xiao Jinghong to support someone, it wasn't a big deal, and besides, there were hardly any people in Jianhu Manor who didn't bully him.

Annoyed as he was, he still had to go when Xiao Jinghong sent someone to call him. However, he hadn't expected what it was about. He assumed Xiao Jinghong had come to settle scores with him, referring to the matter between him and Xiao Yuya. But he didn't care at all. He wanted to use this opportunity to get Xiao Jinghong to marry Xiao Yuya to him, so he could elope with her. To be honest, although he liked Xiao Yuya very much, he didn't like Jianhu Manor at all. This wasn't his home. His home was elsewhere, where several women he deeply loved resided, including the unforgettable beauty—Hua Wuying.

Xiao Tianci followed Xiao Cui into the hall and was immediately taken aback. Although he hadn't seen Dongfang Qin for a while, he still recognized her. Dongfang Qin was a classic cold beauty, even colder than the former Dongfang Xuanji. What surprised him even more was Dongfang Qin's next action.

"Dongfang Qin greets Young Master." Dongfang Qin stepped forward and gave a deep bow, leaving everyone present stunned. Xiao Jinghong felt a pang of unease. When Dongfang Qin first paid her respects to him, it was so casual, yet he still treated her with utmost courtesy. Now, she was showing such respect to his disciple.

"Um, Sister Qin, there's no need for such a grand gesture. I can't accept it," Xiao Tianci stammered, wondering if Dongfang Qin had lost her mind.

"Young Master, I've come on Miss's orders to invite you to the succession ceremony on the eighth of next month. Miss instructed that seeing you should be like seeing her in person, so it's only right that I bow to you." Dongfang Qin's words stunned everyone again.

"Um, Sister Qin, please tell Sister Xuan that I will definitely go. And could you please not be so polite to me in the future? I... I'm really not used to it." Xiao Tianci was a little flustered. He hadn't expected Dongfang Xuanji to make such an arrangement all of a sudden. Could it be that Sister Xuan was really going to marry him? Xiao Tianci felt a mix of joy and unease.

"Well then, Young Master, I'll go back to report to Miss now. Farewell." Dongfang Qin's words were respectful, but still cold. "Tianci, when did you get back? Why didn't you tell me? I was worried that little witch might harm you. Are you alright?" Xiao Jinghong changed his tune quickly.

" Thank you for your concern, Master. I wasn't hurt at all," Xiao Tianci replied. "Master, I'd like to go to the Dongfang Family." "Of course you'll go. Not only you, but I'll go too. Today is the 25th. It takes about seven days to get to the Dongfang Family from here. Just in case, we'll set off the day after tomorrow." Xiao Jinghong was being unusually agreeable today. "Then, Master, can Sister Yuya come with me?" Xiao Tianci asked tentatively. "She could have, but Yuya has other things to do, so she can't go with you this time. But don't worry, you'll see her again when you get back." Xiao Jinghong seemed to have some ulterior motive, still unwilling to let Xiao Yuya stay with Xiao Tianci like this. Chapter Nine: The Rise of the Martial World (Part Two) "Young Master, Dongfang Xuanji has sent a notice to the martial world, announcing that he will pass on his position to Dongfang Yan on the eighth day of next month." The one addressed as Young Master was Xiao Cangtian, and a disciple of the Demonic Sect was reporting to him. "Have you found out why Dongfang Xuanji wants to pass on his position to Dongfang Yan?" Xiao Cangtian asked. "Reporting to Young Master, we haven't received accurate information yet. However, according to rumors, Dongfang Xuanji seems to want to retire from the martial world. Some say that Dongfang Xuanji might want to live in seclusion with his beloved, but I think that's unlikely, because I've never heard of Dongfang Xuanji having any lovers." "Retire from the martial world? If that's true, it's good news for us. His beloved? Could it be that brat?" Xiao Cangtian whispered. "Young Master, do you know who Dongfang Xuanji's lover is?" The disciple probably hadn't expected that Dongfang Xuanji actually had a lover, and that Xiao Cangtian would know. "Pass down the order now: send men to follow a man named Xiao Tianci day and night. He's the third disciple of Jianhu Manor, around 20 years old, and of average appearance. Find out the rest yourself, but make sure you stay close to him. Also, be careful not to be discovered by him; his martial arts are very high, perhaps even surpassing mine." Xiao Cangtian didn't directly answer his subordinate's question, but instead issued an order. "Any other news?" Xiao Cangtian asked, seeing that the disciple hadn't left. "It's like this. Young Master, a disciple has discovered Qiu Shuiyao's whereabouts, and judging from the direction she's heading, she seems to be going to Baima Manor." "Qiu Shuiyao? Qiu Shuiyao from Tianxin Pavilion?" Xiao Cangtian's brows furrowed deeply; this was a major problem. "Pass down the order: keep an eye on Xiao Tianci and Qiu Shuiyao. Remember, avoid direct confrontation. Just monitor their movements and whereabouts." Xiao Cangtian hadn't yet decided how to handle the situation. "You can go now." "Yes, Young Master. I'll take my leave . " ~~ ... Indeed, given Tianxin Pavilion's status in the martial arts world, with Qiu Shuiyao's support, facilitating an alliance among the righteous martial arts factions would be much easier. "Alliance Leader, the Dongfang family has invited you to Dongfang Xuanji's succession ceremony. Should we send someone?" "Of course we should go, but I don't have time. How about this, you go and invite Vice Alliance Leader Li here," Bai Yulou said after a moment's thought. "Brother Bai, you wanted to see me?" A short while later, a young man of about twenty-three or twenty-four entered Bai Yulou's study. "My dear brother, you've come. I need your help with something." It seemed Bai Yulou and this man surnamed Li had a good relationship.

"Brother, you're too kind. Just let me know if you need anything. I'll handle it perfectly." "

You probably know about the succession ceremony at the Dongfang family. I can't go in person because I'm preparing for the martial arts tournament on the Dragon Boat Festival. But it doesn't seem right to send someone else, given Dongfang Xuanji's extraordinary status. So I think only you can go."

"Brother, is that all? Don't worry, I'll be at the Dongfang family on time. Is there anything else you need me to do?"

"Nothing special. While you're there, find out why Dongfang Xuanji wants to pass the leadership to Dongfang Yan, but don't let anyone find out." It seems this is the real purpose.

"Yes, brother."

Li Yuming, 24 years old, sworn brother of Bai Yulou, vice leader of the Heroes' Alliance, his martial arts skills aren't particularly high, but he's very shrewd.

"

Qiao'er, has Qian'er sent any news?" Inside the Nangong family compound, in a beautiful little bamboo house, two stunningly beautiful women were talking.

"Reporting to Miss, Qian'er sent word that Young Master has left Sword Lake Manor for Miss's place, but he's not alone; Xiao Jinghong went with him. And Xiao Yuya also left Sword Lake Manor with Xiao Tianfeng after Young Master left, presumably heading to White Horse Manor," Qiao'er replied.

"I see. It seems Xiao Jinghong still wants to use Xiao Yuya to win over Bai Yulou. Is there any other news?"

"I also heard that Qiu Shuiyao is heading to Baima Manor, but I heard that Xiao Cangtian of the Demonic Sect is preparing to ambush her to prevent her from appearing at the Martial Arts Tournament."

"Qiu Shuiyao? She's out too? Qiao'er, Qian'er, did you say where Tianci is now?"

"Young Master should be arriving in Hangzhou soon."

"Go and prepare, we're going to Hangzhou right away."

A woman as beautiful as a fairy was in a secluded small building in the Nangong family. She sighed softly, "Yu-mei, is there any news about him again?"

"Sister Ying, I'm going to Hangzhou to see him, will you come with me?" It was Nangong Xiaoyu who came. And the woman was none other than Hua Wuying.

"I'm a little worried, I'm afraid my going will cause you a lot of trouble." It seems she really wanted to go.

"As long as you're willing to go, I'll be there for you no matter what happens. Sister Ying, don't worry, I believe he'll be very happy to see you."

"Sister Yu, I'm so grateful to you for the past year. If he dares to wrong you, I will never forgive him." Hua Wuying's gentle voice held a firm tone. "Sister Ying, actually, he loves me very much too." Nangong

Xiaoyu's voice was slightly disappointed. ~~ ... All factions of the martial arts world mobilized, and it seemed a storm was about to break out in the martial arts world… Chapter Ten: The Bright Moon Over the Horizon. “Tianci, there are still three days until the succession ceremony. Let’s find a place to stay first,” Xiao Jinghong said to Xiao Tianci. “Yes, Master.” Xiao Tianci was obedient, but if he knew Xiao Jinghong was going to sell Xiao Yuya again, he wondered if he would still do the same. After Xiao Jinghong and Xiao Tianci settled into an inn, Xiao Tianci was now leaning against the window of a restaurant, enjoying the scenery. He always preferred to sit by the window. This restaurant wasn’t far from the Dongfang Family, and he could see many martial arts figures drinking and eating there. Xiao Tianci, true to his nature, focused on the outside world, not the inside, and was enjoying the sights when he was suddenly startled by a commotion. A man and two women entered the restaurant. The man was handsome and the women were exceptionally beautiful. One couple was holding hands; at first glance, they seemed like a perfect match—a perfect couple! However, it was a different story for Xiao Tianci. Upon seeing the three, his expression shifted, his thoughts unreadable. He quickly turned his head away, seemingly trying to avoid being seen. But things are strange like this; the more you try to hide, the more you can't escape. The three were walking towards their table. "Junior Zhan Qingchen greets Master Xiao." The man approached and bowed, but not to Xiao Tianci, but to Xiao Jinghong. "So it's Young Hero Zhan. No need for such formalities. How is your master?" Xiao Jinghong wasn't a stranger in the martial world; he knew Zhan Qingchen's identity. "Thank you for your concern, Master. My master is doing well." "Young Hero, please give my regards to your master when you return." Xiao Jinghong glanced around the restaurant. "Young Hero Zhan, it seems there are no seats upstairs. If you and these two ladies don't mind, would you like to squeeze in here?" "Thank you very much, Senior Xiao. I gladly accept your invitation." Zhan Qingchen sat down, and the two women sat beside him. "This is my younger sister, Zhan Qingyan, and this is Miss Yue Xiaomin. Sister Yan, Min'er, why don't you greet Senior Xiao?" Zhan Qingchen introduced the two women to Xiao Jinghong. "Greetings, Senior Xiao." "No need for such formalities , ladies." Xiao Jinghong turned his head. "Tianci, what are you looking at? Come and greet Young Hero Zhan." "This is my third disciple, Xiao Tianci. He's rather inexperienced and lacks manners; please don't take offense, Young Hero Zhan." Xiao Jinghong said to Zhan Qingchen. "Ah!" Two exclamations rang out simultaneously. One was from Yue Xiaomin, who immediately realized her mistake and covered her mouth, her face turning pale. "Are you the Xiao Tianci who defeated Xiao Cangtian? You're amazing!" The other exclamation came from Zhan Qingyan, who looked on with admiration. She then moved closer to Xiao Tianci, bombarding him with questions; she was clearly a very lively girl. "Miss Zhan, my name is indeed Xiao Tianci, but I didn't defeat Xiao Cangtian." Xiao Tianci was a little embarrassed, as if this was the first time someone had admired him. "But I heard that Xiao Cangtian was driven away by you. You don't need to be so modest. By the way, I heard that heroes are all very modest, that must be true, right?" Zhan Qingyan persisted. "Sister Yan, don't be silly." Xiao Tianci didn't know how to answer, but fortunately Zhan Qingchen saved him. "I just wanted to ask." Zhan Qingyan muttered, but didn't ask any more questions. It seems she still listens to Zhan Qingchen. "Min'er, what's wrong? Why do you look so pale? Are you feeling unwell?" Zhan Qingchen noticed that Yue Xiaomin was not right and asked with concern. "No, nothing's wrong. Don't worry." Yue Xiaomin lowered her head and said softly. There was another thud of footsteps, and another group of people came up to the restaurant. The leader was also a young couple. The man was no less impressive than Zhan Qingchen, while the woman seemed to be even more impressive than Yue Xiaomin. There were several people following behind them, who were probably their subordinates. "Young Master, there is no room left. Should we go somewhere else?" one of the subordinates asked. "Go and fetch the waiter, and tell him to make room for us." The one referred to as the young master was the leader, and he looked arrogant.

"Sir, there are no seats upstairs. Would you please sit downstairs for a while, and I'll invite you up when there's a place available?" The waiter pleaded cautiously. He knew he couldn't afford to offend the person in front of him, but he also couldn't afford to offend the other people in the restaurant. He had no choice but to beg in a humble manner.

"What did you say? Our young master is honoring your restaurant by patronizing you, and you actually expect him to wait downstairs?" One of the henchmen grabbed the waiter's clothes, looking ready to throw him down at any moment.

"Sister, how can there be such people in this world? They used to be servants, but suddenly they had a stroke of luck and became rich, and now they start acting like tyrants." A woman's voice suddenly rang out.

"Anling, what did you say?" The man walked towards a corner of the restaurant, where Xiao Tianci noticed that there was also a man and two women sitting there. The two women were just as beautiful as the two men, it seemed there were many beauties here today.

"Don't you understand what I'm saying?" The woman named An Ling spoke. An Ling was dressed in fiery red, giving off a wild vibe, while the woman beside her was dressed in plain clothes, exuding a serene aura.

"An Ling, don't think you can act so presumptuously in front of me just because I used to like you." Their past relationship was indeed quite close. "

Ling Xiaofang, I, An Ling, have had many admirers since I was little. One more like you wouldn't have mattered. But now, I truly feel ashamed to be liked by someone like you." An Ling was indeed quite fiery.

"An Ling, don't go too far!" Ling Xiaofang's face flushed red; she seemed quite angry.

"Ling Xiaofang, do you think you're so great just because you're some young master from the ends of the earth? Let me tell you, in my eyes, you'll always be a useless servant. Even if you become emperor, you'll still be worthless in my eyes. I'd like anyone but you."

*Slap!* A figure flashed by, and then An Ling pressed her hand to her cheek. "Ling Xiaofang, how dare you hit me!"

"I'm just giving you a little lesson," Ling Xiaofang said coldly.

"Ling Xiaofang, it seems your martial arts are quite good now. I'd like to see what you've got," the man next to An Ling said.

"An Yu, do you think you can defeat me?" Ling Xiaofang was a bit arrogant.

"Hey, hey, hey, don't rush, we'll fight later," another person appeared.

"Who are you?" the two asked simultaneously.

"Brother An, you don't need to look at me like that. I'm here to help you. Oh, I misspoke. I'm not helping you, I'm helping your sister. I hate it when men bully women, so before you fight, I'm here to scold this kid and vent your anger." There are people like this!

"Sir, you must be someone of some renown in the martial world. May I ask your name?" Ling Xiaofang didn't recognize this person.

"What you call me isn't really important, but since I know who you are, and you don't know who I am, to be fair, I'll tell you. I am the one known as the Amorous Young Master, Lan Tianfeng, who is charming but not vulgar, passionate but definitely not heartless." A bit dizzying, so long.

Xiao Tianci found it amusing. He and Lan Tianfeng were old acquaintances, and he already knew his personality somewhat. Judging from his intuition, Ling Xiaofang was probably in for a rough time today.

"Brother Xiao, do you know this Lan Tianfeng?" Zhan Qingyan was calling him "brother" in the blink of an eye; a little girl with such a vivid imagination was a bit scary.

"I guess we know each other. He helped me once." Xiao Tianci was a little overwhelmed by this incredibly curious girl.

"Is that Lan Tianfeng any good?"

"He's a top expert on the Black List, of course he's good." Zhan Qingchen chimed in from the side. Yue Xiaomin was acting strangely today, keeping her head down and lost in thought.

"But he doesn't have the aura of a master at all." Zhan Qingyan was a little skeptical.

"If you don't believe me, just wait and see." Zhan Qingchen ignored her.

"Um, Brother Xiao, he looks like he's pointing at you." Zhan Qingyan exclaimed again.

Actually, Xiao Tianci had seen it too. He cursed Lan Tianfeng inwardly, not expecting Tianfeng to drag him into this.

"Brother Ling, actually, I'm not very good at cursing, so I've decided to ask someone else to curse you." Lan Tianfeng always liked to drag others down with him.

"Lan Tianfeng, don't try to act like a brother to me. Just tell me what you're up to. I, Ling Xiaofang, will take it all."

"Why are you so eager to get scolded? Don't rush, look, there's that guy over there. I'll call him over to scold you later. He's better at it." Lan Tianfeng pointed at Xiao Tianci.

"Brother Lan, what does it have to do with me if you want to scold someone? When have I ever been good at it?" Xiao Tianci finally had no choice but to come over.

"You can't? I remember that old man Lu was quite angry after just one sentence from you, and your second sentence almost made me furious. If you can't scold someone, who can?" Lan Tianfeng actually remembered that Xiao Tianci hadn't heard of him back then.

"Besides, look, such a pretty girl being beaten up, can you really stand by and watch?" Seeing that Xiao Tianci didn't seem to react, Lan Tianfeng changed tactics.

"Have you two decided who will go first?" Ling Xiaofang couldn't help but chime in from the side.

"Brother Xiao, this kid is yours." Lan Tianfeng darted to Xiao Tianci's seat and sat down, unaware that Zhan Qingyan was glaring at him.

"Looks like Lan Tianfeng sent you here to die." Ling Xiaofang said coldly to Xiao Tianci.

"Brother Ling seems to have misunderstood. My martial arts are weak; I'm not here to fight." Xiao Tianci, seeing that he was now in a bind, could only curse Lan Tianfeng inwardly.

"If you're afraid of death, then get lost."

"There's no one in this world who is truly unafraid of death. It's just that sometimes there are things, some people, worth dying for, so some people aren't afraid of death. I'm afraid of death, but I'm not afraid of you. Because you don't seem to be so easy to kill me." Xiao Tianci said calmly.

"I don't want to fight you; I just feel it's unnecessary. I won't fight others for trivial reasons like you do." Xiao Tianci continued.

"Whether you fight or not is not up to you." Ling Xiaofang said coldly, launching a grappling move at Xiao Tianci.

"It seems Miss An wasn't wrong. You really are the nouveau riche type. Besides resorting to violence, what else do you know?" Xiao Tianci dodged the attack with a slight movement.

"I didn't realize you were so capable. May I ask your name?" Ling Xiaofang didn't expect Xiao Tianci to dodge so easily.

"Who I am isn't important. I'm just here to tell you that girls shouldn't be hit casually. As a man, you should have some manners and not easily resort to violence."

"I didn't realize you knew how to cherish women. It's a pity she's not your woman." Ling Xiaofang's face was full of sarcasm.

"Ling Xiaofang, how do you know I'm not his woman? Let me tell you, I've decided now. From this moment on, I am his woman. What do you say?" An Ling suddenly interjected from the side, but this sentence frightened many people, with Xiao Tianci being the first to react. "Miss An, you must be joking." Xiao Tianci's face was embarrassed.

"Yes, sister. Don't talk nonsense." An Ling's sister also said from the side. "

I'm not joking, Mr. Xiao. Do you think this kind of thing can be joked about?" An Ling's wildness erupted as she stared at Xiao Tianci and asked.

"Of course not. But you should think it through carefully, don't act impulsively." Xiao Tianci was a little afraid of An Ling's behavior.

"An Ling, I thought you'd find some kind of man. Turns out it's just someone like him. If you'd known, you might as well have chosen me." Ling Xiaofang suddenly burst into laughter.

"Ling Xiaofang, I really feel sorry for the girl next to you, finding a man like you." An Ling retorted.

"An Ling, don't think you're the only beautiful one in the world. This is my fiancée, Crystal, the young mistress of Crystal Palace. In terms of family background and looks, she's no less than you." Ling Xiaofang said, while defiantly hugging Crystal's slender waist.

"So, in your eyes, women are just ornaments, capital for you to flaunt. I also feel sorry for that girl." Xiao Tianci said slowly, "I didn't want any conflict with you, but I'll tell you one last thing: the woman you love is someone you should cherish with all your heart."

"Well said, well said, Brother Xiao, I should give you my title of 'Amorous Young Master'." Lan Tianfeng, having finished watching the commotion, joined in again.

"Your name isn't exactly a good thing either." An Ling interjected from the side.

"Miss An, really? You're already helping him so quickly?" Lan Tianfeng's expression was exaggerated.

"Of course, who else would I help if not him?" An Ling seemed determined. However, Ling Xiaofang, standing to the side, finally couldn't hold back any longer.

"Hey, Xiao, if you're still a man, come and fight me."

"Wait, wait, he only talks, he doesn't fight. You want to fight, right? I'll find you someone else." It was Lan Tianfeng again. Ling Xiaofang had cursed Lan Tianfeng's ancestors countless times in his heart.

"Lan Tianfeng, what are you up to?" Ling Xiaofang was about to go crazy.

"Brother Gu, what are you hiding there for? Your business has come knocking. This opponent is not bad, you should practice." Lan Tianfeng ignored him and spoke to another corner.

"I don't want to fight today, I haven't had enough to drink yet. You deal with it yourself." The man ignored him and buried his head in his food and drink.

"How can you be so disloyal?" Lan Tianfeng was indignant, but it was unclear whether he was referring to himself.

"Do I need to be loyal to you? Every time you get the better deal, you make me do the hard work, and you never share any of those beauties with me."

"How can you say that, Brother Gu? It's not that I don't want to give you beauties, it's that you don't like beauties. Besides, I didn't get anything out of it today, but Brother Xiao got a great beauty. We still have to fight, but if you have any trouble, you can go to him, it just depends on whether you have the nerve to ask him." Lan Tianfeng looked aggrieved.

"Brother Gu, you should come and help me out. You're good at fighting. I'll treat you to drinks after we're done." Xiao Tianci recognized Gu Feng early on. Gu Feng and Lan Tianfeng often appeared together, but their relationship was strange, seemingly bad yet also seemingly good.

"Brother Xiao, are you serious? I heard that the Dongfang family has two jars of top-grade Hundred Flowers Wine, which was brewed by the Hundred Flowers Fairy and given to Dongfang Xuanji. Could you get me some to try?" Gu Feng loved wine the most.

"No problem, I'll definitely get you a jar." Xiao Tianci patted his chest and guaranteed.

"A jar? That's great! I'll go beat that brat up right now." Gu Feng had only wanted to try it, but Xiao Tianci had agreed to give him a whole jar, so he was overjoyed.

"Hey, can you really get that kind of wine? I heard Dongfang Xuanji is hard to talk to." An Ling pulled Xiao Tianci aside and asked in a low voice.

"Don't worry, I can get it easily. Didn't you see that Brother Gu doesn't doubt my abilities at all?" Xiao Tianci didn't know how to deal with An Ling, so he just let her be for now. He figured he'd tell her he had a crush when there were fewer people around, and she would stop bothering him. Xiao Tianci was making his wishful thinking.

Chapter Eleven Good Things Come in Pairs

"Hey kid, what's your name? I heard you want to fight, right? Come on, let's finish this quickly so I can go drink." This really angered Ling Xiaofang, who clearly didn't take him seriously at all.

"You're Gu Feng, the number one expert on the Green List?" One of Ling Xiaofang's subordinates had just whispered something in his ear, apparently telling him Gu Feng's identity.

"Why are you talking so much nonsense? If you're going to fight, then fight! I'm busy, I'm waiting to drink." Gu Feng was really a bit... well, it seemed like drinking was the most important thing to him.

"No one is allowed to fight!" Suddenly, a little girl's voice rang out, and two more women came up from downstairs. Xiao Tianci recognized one of them as none other than the cold beauty, Dongfang Qin. The other one looked familiar, but he couldn't quite place her.

"Dongfang Qin greets all the friends from the martial arts world. I hope you can give the Dongfang family some face and not start a fight here." Dongfang Qin was quite polite.

"Did you hear that? My sister Qin said you're not allowed to fight here." The little girl's tone was completely different, fierce.

"Um, little sister. I don't really like fighting either, but I want to drink." Gu Feng looked at the little girl.

"Your name is Gu Feng, right? Let me tell you, don't call me little sister. First, I'm not little; second, I'm not your sister." Hearing this, Xiao Tianci couldn't help but laugh. He remembered this little girl; he hadn't expected that after more than a year, she had grown so much that he almost didn't recognize her.

"What are you laughing at?" The little girl had sharp ears and heard Xiao Tianci's laughter. She turned to look at him, her expression suddenly changing, her eyes reddening, and she didn't speak again.

"Panpan, it's been so long. How are you?" Although he and Panpan hadn't spent much time together back then, he still liked her lively personality.

"Of course I'm fine. I'm the most gentle, beautiful, kind, and generous Dongfang Panpan, unparalleled in heaven and earth. How could I not be fine?" Panpan was still the same as before, but her voice lowered as she spoke, "Where have you been for the past year? I asked Miss, but she wouldn't tell me. Nobody played with me, I was so bored. This time, you have to play with me to your heart's content." It turned out the little girl was so bored all the time. She finally found a playmate, but he ran away after only a few days. Of course, she missed him.

Xiao Jinghong felt a mix of emotions. Today, he had witnessed Xiao Tianci's connections in the martial arts world. Judging from the current situation, Xiao Tianci wasn't just backed by Dongfang Xuanji, but by many other people. He initially thought Xiao Tianci only had a good relationship with Dongfang Xuanji, but Dongfang Xuanji was about to retire from the martial world, how could she compare to the rising power of Baiyulou? But now it seemed wrong, and he felt it necessary to change his initial strategy. He couldn't help but secretly rejoice that Xiao Tianci didn't know Xiao Yuya had gone to Baima Manor.

"Gu Feng, today, for Miss Dongfang's sake, I won't hold it against you." Ling Xiaofang finished speaking, glared hatefully at Lan Tianfeng and Xiao Tianci, and left with his men.

"Hey, wait a minute. If you don't beat me up, who will you ask for wine?" He was dizzy.

"Brother Gu, it's alright. I'll still treat you to wine." Xiao Tianci hurriedly said from the side. To be honest, he didn't want to see them fight.

"Young Master, since you're already here, why don't you go find Miss? Miss has been waiting for you." Dongfang Qin's soft voice.

"Sister Qin, I..." Xiao Tianci didn't know what to say.

"Stop with the 'I, I, I', just come with me to see Miss now." Panpan interjected from the side.

"Brother Xiao, remember my wine." Gu Feng only remembered the wine.

"If you all agree, you can also come back to the Dongfang Family with us," Dongfang Qin continued. "I have some things to attend to, so I can't go yet. Tianci, please give my regards to the Dongfang Family Head." "Yes, Master. "

Xiao Jinghong seemed to be thinking something.

Led by Dongfang Qin, Xiao Tianci and his group arrived at the Dongfang family residence. Tianci immediately went to see Dongfang Xuanji, while the others were treated as VIPs and settled in, though An Ling was somewhat unhappy.

Xiao Tianci returned to this familiar yet unfamiliar place. Panpan didn't come with him, saying he would go in by himself, as Dongfang Xuanji was inside.

Nothing had changed. Xiao Tianci went to Dongfang Xuanji's room. The door wasn't closed, so he went straight in and saw Dongfang Xuanji looking at something.

"Sister Xuan, what are you looking at?" Dongfang Xuanji was holding something that looked like a list. Xiao Tianci moved closer to her, wanting to see it.

"When did you arrive?" Dongfang Xuanji was a little uncomfortable being so close to him and shifted her body slightly as she asked. "

Just arrived a little while ago, Sister Xuan, can I see what you're holding?" Xiao Tianci was quite curious.

"Nothing, just a list of people who might attend the ceremony. Don't worry about it." Dongfang Xuanji's gentle demeanor was something Xiao Tianci could never tire of. "

Sister Xuan, do you have two jars of Hundred Flowers Wine?" Xiao Tianci remembered he had important business to attend to.

"When did you learn to drink?" Dongfang Xuanji asked, a little surprised.

"It's not that I wanted to drink. But I promised someone I'd give it to him, Sister Xuan, do you have any?" Xiao Tianci's tone still carried a hint of coquetry.

"Oh, there are two jars. I'll go get them for you." Saying this, he got up and walked out, and Xiao Tianci quickly followed.

****

"Do you think Brother Xiao could get me some wine?" Gu Feng kept asking Lan Tianfeng.

"Don't worry, don't you think about his relationship with Dongfang Xuanji? One jar of wine is definitely no problem." Lan Tianfeng was getting fed up with this drunkard.

"Then why hasn't he brought me any wine yet?" Gu Feng was a little incredulous.

"I finally know why no woman likes you. You have no idea what girls are thinking. Think about it, Dongfang Xuanji and Xiao Tianci have been separated for a long time, of course they have a lot of sweet nothings to say, they don't have time to ask you for wine." Lan Tianfeng looked at Gu Feng with a disdainful expression.

Just then, Xiao Tianci brought in a jar of wine. "Brother Gu, I've brought you the wine you wanted."

Gu Feng looked at Lan Tianfeng for a long time before saying, "Actually, you're not much better than me. No wonder you haven't found a wife yet!" Lan Tianfeng was speechless.

"What are you talking about?" Xiao Tianci was a little confused.

"Nothing, nothing. Thank you so much, Brother Xiao. If you ever have a fight, just come to me. Just make me some of this wine afterwards." Gu Feng's drunken nature was on full display.

"Well, Brother Gu, enjoy your drink. I'll be going now." He was answered with a gulp.

****

"Sister, are you really going to be with that Young Master Xiao?" In another room, An Ling was being questioned by her sister, An Jing.

"Yes, sister. When have I ever joked?" An Ling seemed lost in thought.

"But you know nothing about him, you don't understand him at all. Shouldn't you reconsider?" An Jing tried hard to persuade her sister to change her mind.

"Sister, I won't change my mind." An Ling left no room for negotiation.

"

Min'er, what's wrong with you today? You look so pale and haven't said a word. What's wrong? Tell me!" Zhan Qingchen pressed Yue Xiaomin.

"Qingchen, I'm really fine. I just caught a cold and feel a little unwell. I'll be fine after a rest." Yue Xiaomin smiled gently.

"Are you really alright?" Zhan Qingchen was still worried.

"Really, no."

"Then you should rest well. I'll go call Yanmei to take care of you."

"No need. I want to sleep alone for a while."

"Okay then." Zhan Qingchen turned to leave the room.

"Qingchen," hearing Yue Xiaomin's call, Zhan Qingchen stopped.

"Can you promise me something?"

"What is it? Just tell me."

"Don't have any conflict with Xiao Tianci." Yue Xiaomin seemed to have made a great decision before saying this.

"Xiao Tianci? Is it because of him that you're like this today?" Zhan Qingchen seemed to understand a little.

"Please don't ask anymore, okay? I'm begging you. Just promise what I just said." Yue Xiaomin was about to cry.

"Okay, I promise you." Zhan Qingchen said with difficulty, but her heart ached.

"Why did you bring this jar of wine over?" Dongfang Xuanji asked when she saw Xiao Tianci bring in a jar of wine.

"Nothing, I just put it here first. I only promised to give Brother Gu one jar. As for this one, we'll try it later. Judging from how much Brother Gu likes it, I think it must be good." Xiao Tianci, who had never drunk alcohol before, suddenly wanted to drink today. "

You can drink if you want, but I won't. And I'm warning you, if you become an alcoholic, don't expect me to talk to you again." Dongfang Xuanji was unwilling to drink.

"Alright, if you don't want to drink, then don't. Let's eat first." Someone had already prepared a table of dishes in the room.

"You two are so inconsiderate! Hiding here enjoying yourselves without even calling me." A voice startled Xiao Tianci.

"Sister Ying, what are you doing here so suddenly?" A person flashed into the room; it was Ye Bingying.

"What, you're not welcoming me? Are you upset that I disturbed you?" Ye Bingying retorted sharply.

"What are you doing here again? I don't want to fight you anymore." Dongfang Xuanji and Ye Bingying were natural enemies, their encounters always filled with tension.

"I heard you're retiring from the martial world, so I came to see you." Ye Bingying's voice seemed to carry a hint of sadness. "If you retire, who will be worthy of being my opponent?"

"Hey, Sister Xuanji and Sister Ying, your fights have been inconclusive. I have a way to settle things today without any danger. Do you want to try?" Xiao Tianci chimed in from the side, wondering what this kid was up to.

"Tianci, what kind of trick are you up to now?" Dongfang Xuanji glared at him.

"Um, Sister Ying, can you drink?" Xiao Tianci pretended not to see Dongfang Xuanji's look.

"Drink? I can't. But does our fight have anything to do with drinking?" Ye Bingying didn't understand.

"Of course it does. Look, there's a jar of wine here. You two can have a drinking contest. Whoever gets drunk first loses. Since neither of you used to drink, it's very fair." The fight turned into a drinking contest.

"That's a good idea. Haha, you're so clever, little brother." Ye Bingying was excited, clearly interested in the idea. However, Dongfang Xuanji hesitated, seemingly reluctant.

"Sister Xuan, are you afraid of losing to Sister Ying?" Xiao Tianci used reverse psychology.

"Let's compete! Why would I be afraid of her?" The reverse psychology worked.

****

Few people have ever seen beautiful women drinking contests, but Xiao Tianci witnessed it today. A jar of wine was almost empty between the two of them, their faces flushed, making Xiao Tianci eager to join in. Xiao Tianci claimed to be the referee, so he didn't drink any wine.

"Tianci, come here." Ye Bingying called to him. He quickly went to her side.

"Tell me, who won?" Ye Bingying put her hand on him, her eyes dreamy.

"Of course I won." Dongfang Xuanji was still sober. "You can't even stand properly and need Tianci to support you. Look at me, I'm perfectly fine." Dongfang Xuanji seemed to want to prove she was alright. After taking a few steps, she suddenly swayed, and Xiao Tianci quickly caught her.

"Hehe, you're just like me." Ye Bingying laughed heartily, and Xiao Tianci couldn't resist kissing her.

"You little pervert, so you got me drunk to do something naughty." Ye Bingying was stunned by the kiss.

"No, Sister Ying. I just couldn't help myself." Xiao Tianci quickly explained. "Sister Ying, you look so beautiful now."

"You mean I wasn't pretty before?" Ye Bingying leaned against Xiao Tianci.

"No, Sister Ying, you've always been beautiful." Xiao Tianci felt the amazing elasticity of Ye Bingying's soft body and couldn't resist any longer, kissing her lips fiercely.

"Ugh~~~~~~"

"You little pervert, how could you be so naughty?" After a long while, the two separated.

"There's worse to come," Xiao Tianci said, noticing that Dongfang Xuanji had fallen asleep against him. He gently placed them on the bed, one in each arm, and began undressing Ye Bingying while kissing her…

****

Dongfang Xuanji was putting on her makeup in front of the mirror, her blush not yet completely gone. Xiao Tianci was still lying on the bed, but Ye Bingying was nowhere to be seen. Xiao Tianci was actually awake, but his heart was filled with unease. Last night, he had lost control and taken advantage of both Dongfang Xuanji and Ye Bingying. Although Dongfang Xuanji was awake and didn't object when he took her, they were both drunk at the time. He didn't know what would happen to Dongfang Xuanji once she sobered up.

"What time is it? Aren't you getting up?" Dongfang Xuanji's voice grew gentler. Actually, she was also very confused. She had guarded her virginity for so many years, and now she had given it to a man eight years younger than her, and this man was so promiscuous. Yet, she couldn't hate him. She knew that she was willing, but if she hadn't been drunk yesterday, she wouldn't have been able to make such a decision to give herself to him.

"Sister Xuan, are you angry with me?" Xiao Tianci was terrified.

"Actually, I've already considered you my husband." Dongfang Xuanji's gentle voice carried a hint of shyness.

"Your friends are looking for you. Go see them first."

"Yes, Sister Xuan." Xiao Tianci was so happy he almost jumped up, but then suddenly realized something was wrong. "Sister Xuan, um, where's Sister Ying?" He wanted to ask but didn't dare.

"You're such a womanizer, still thinking about other women." Dongfang Xuanji seemed angry.

"Sister Xuan, I, I~~~~" It seemed that Dongfang Xuanji was the person Xiao Tianci feared most.

"Alright, look how scared you are. She left first. After all, she's from the Demonic Sect, and it's inconvenient for her to be here. She asked me to tell you she'd come looking for you." Dongfang Xuanji couldn't help but laugh at his expression.

"She's afraid of you because she likes you," Xiao Tianci muttered.

"What did you say?" Dongfang Xuanji didn't hear him clearly.

"Nothing. I meant I'd go check on Brother Gu and the others first, then I'll come find you tonight. Hehe." Xiao Tianci finished speaking and quickly ran out.

"Who said you'd come find me tonight?" Dongfang Xuanji spat, a blush rising on her face.

Chapter Twelve: Love is a Curse

"Brother Gu, I heard you were looking for me?" Xiao Tianci arrived at Gu Feng's room and found that not only Gu Feng, Lan Tianfeng, An Ling, and Zhan Qingyan were there, but even Panpan was there.

"Yes. We were all looking for you." Lan Tianfeng lazily replied.

"You were all looking for me? When did I become so popular?" Xiao Tianci was a little dizzy.

"Of course you're not popular? But I do welcome your wine." Gu Feng wasn't afraid of offending him and not getting any wine.

"Brother Xiao, you smell so good." Zhan Qingyan leaned over to smell him.

"Tell me quickly, which girl did you take advantage of? Otherwise, why do you smell so good, ah..." Panpan quickly covered her mouth and looked at him with a strange look, making Xiao Tianci feel uneasy.

“Brother Xiao, how could you do this? Miss An has come to see you countless times, and you just…” He shook his head as he spoke, while An Ling beside him looked like she was about to cry.

“Miss An, would you do me the honor of going for a walk with me?” Xiao Tianci hadn’t had a chance to talk to An Ling, so he simply invited her out.

“Okay, okay, I want to go too.” Zhan Qingyan was being incredibly clingy.

“I’m Zhan Xiaomei, why would you follow them when they’re out having a romantic time? You should stay here and play with Miss Panpan.” Panpan and Zhan Qingyan were getting along very well; both of them loved to have fun, and now they were together.

*****

“Is there something you want to tell me?” Xiao Tianci and An Ling were walking side by side in Hangzhou. Seeing that Xiao Tianci seemed hesitant, An Ling finally asked first.

“It’s like this, Miss An. Actually, I already have a fiancée. I think you were just being stubborn for a moment, could you…”

“No!” He was interrupted before he could finish.

“I, An Ling, will not change my mind once I've made up my mind. So whether you have a fiancée or something, it has nothing to do with me.” An Ling’s tone was firm.

“But…”

“No buts. Maybe you don’t like me now, but one day you will. I’ve always been confident in myself.” An Ling was determined.

“Do you want to hear my story?” Xiao Tianci asked.

“Of course I’m willing to listen, as long as you’re willing to tell me.”

The two found a small eatery by the roadside, sat down, and Xiao Tianci began to speak. …Xiao Tianci slowly recounted his life from childhood to adulthood, but omitted some details appropriately.

“Then do you want to hear my story?” An Ling asked, not caring whether Xiao Tianci wanted to hear it or not, and continued. "Ling Xiaofang was originally the son of one of my servants. I was very pretty and wild from a young age, and many people liked me. Ling Xiaofang was one of them. Later, he somehow obtained a martial arts manual, I heard it was called the Xuanwu True Scripture, and mastered it in less than a year. He even founded an organization called Tianya Haijiao. Nominally, his father was the master, but in reality, his father didn't know any martial arts at all, and Ling Xiaofang was in charge of all the practical matters. Later, he came to my house to propose marriage, saying he wanted to marry me. My father almost agreed, but I disagreed, so he didn't force me." "To be honest, Ling Xiaofang is actually quite good-looking and skilled in martial arts, but I just don't like his appearance,"

Xiao Tianci said. "Actually, I'm similar to Ling Xiaofang in many ways. Although I'm called the third disciple, I'm practically no different from a servant. I'm just luckier than him; Sister Yuya likes me too. But honestly, I'm not as good as him. I don't have many ambitions. I don't care about martial arts, power, money, or status. My requirements are very simple: I just want to live a peaceful life with the person I love. At least Ling Xiaofang isn't as unambitious as me."

"Do you really think your demands are that simple? In the martial world, one is often not in control of one's own destiny. You're already a celebrity in the martial world; you can't completely stay out of it. Besides, do you think you can be with the person you love smoothly? You may not like martial arts, money, or status, but can you live a peaceful life without them? Without martial arts, you might have to watch helplessly as your beloved is harmed. Without money and status, can you give her a good life? Actually, your demands are not simple at all for someone in the martial world." An Ling's words left Xiao Tianci speechless.

"Xiao Tianci, so you're here! I've been looking for you for so long." Zhan Qingchen appeared before them.

"Brother Zhan, what brings you here?" To be honest, Xiao Tianci didn't want to see Zhan Qingchen.

"I just want to ask you, what did you do to Min'er? Why has she been so depressed ever since she saw you?" Zhan Qingchen still ignored Yue Xiaomin's advice and came to find Xiao Tianci.

"I think you've misunderstood. I have nothing to do with Miss Yue. You should ask her why she's so depressed. Maybe you did something to upset her?" Xiao Tianci denied it outright.

"Xiao Tianci, if you two have nothing to do with each other, why would she tell me not to have any conflict with you?" Zhan Qingchen wasn't going to be fooled like that.

"Oh, she really said that to you?" Xiao Tianci pondered for a moment, "Maybe it's because I'm good-looking, hehe." An Ling couldn't help but chuckle beside him.

"Xiao Tianci, don't play dumb with me. I don't care what your relationship with her was before, don't come looking for her again." Although Zhan Qingchen was almost blinded by jealousy, he was still well-mannered and hadn't made a move.

"Don't worry about that, Brother Zhan. I won't go looking for her on my own initiative, but if she comes looking for me, that's none of my business." Xiao Tianci seemed to be deliberately trying to provoke Zhan Qingchen.

"You—" Zhan Qingchen was almost furious. He took a deep breath and suppressed his anger. "I won't argue with you for now, but remember what I said, or you'll regret it." He turned and left.

"Tell me honestly, what's your relationship with Yue Xiaomin?" Xiao Tianci felt a sharp pain on his thigh. It turned out that An Ling had pinched him.

"No way, she's already jealous so quickly." Xiao Tianci muttered to himself, but dared not say it aloud.

"No, I really have nothing to do with her." Xiao Tianci denied it to the death.

"It's nothing? Then why is Zhan Qingchen trying to settle scores with you? And what did he say about Yue Xiaomin seeming to care about you?" An Ling wasn't so easily fooled.

"What do you mean she cares about me? She's clearly concerned about that guy surnamed Zhan." Xiao Tianci thought to himself.

"Don't listen to Zhan Qingchen's nonsense, he's probably out of his mind." Xiao Tianci didn't know how to explain, so he could only blame it all on Zhan Qingchen.

"If you and Yue Xiaomin have nothing to do with each other, then why are you so angry with Zhan Qingchen? I think you're just jealous that he's with Yue Xiaomin." An Ling was still relentless.

"I said it's nothing to do with each other. If you don't believe me, there's nothing I can do." Xiao Tianci had no choice but to play dumb. Actually, An Ling was a little wronged by him. Looking at Zhan Qingchen reminded him of how Hua Wuying had been bullied by disciples from prestigious sects like theirs, and he felt a little unhappy. Seeing him and Yue Xiaomin being affectionate made him even more annoyed, so he made Zhan Qingchen furious.

"You went to see him?" Zhan Qingchen found Yue Xiaomin in his room when he returned.

"Yes, I went to see him. But don't worry, I didn't have any conflict with him." Zhan Qingchen's tone was sour.

"It was my fault. I shouldn't have said that to you. If I hadn't, you wouldn't have known about him." Yue Xiaomin said softly, her voice full of self-reproach.

"Min'er, can you tell me who he really is to you? Why are you so concerned about him?" Zhan Qingchen couldn't hold back any longer.

"Concerned about him?" Yue Xiaomin was taken aback, then suddenly understood. "So you thought I didn't let you have a conflict with him because I cared about him?"

"You mean you cared about me?" Zhan Qingchen wasn't stupid; he understood the implication in Yue Xiaomin's words.

"Think what you want." Yue Xiaomin seemed a little disappointed. She was probably disappointed that Zhan Qingchen didn't believe her feelings, but she didn't expect that a jealous man shouldn't be judged by common sense.

"We've been together for a year, traveling the world together, every single day has been filled with joy! But ever since you met Xiao Tianci, look at the state you've become! Have you smiled even once these past few days? What do you think I'll think? Do you expect me to believe that you two have no connection and that I'm just making trouble for myself?" Zhan Qingchen practically shouted. "I just wanted to travel the world happily with you, to be a couple that everyone envies, is that wrong? If I didn't love you, would I care about you so much? But have you ever considered my feelings? And now you're telling me to think whatever I want!"

Zhan Qingchen slammed the door shut and tried to leave, but then heard a sob behind her. Turning around, she saw Yue Xiaomin lying on the bed, her shoulders shaking.

"Min'er, don't cry, it's my fault, I shouldn't have yelled at you. Please don't cry, okay?" Zhan Qingchen quickly went to comfort her, but instead of comforting her, the crying only intensified.

"Qingchen, I know you're good to me, but I really don't know how to tell you this." Yue Xiaomin got up and threw herself into Zhan Qingchen's arms, her face streaked with tears as she spoke haltingly.

"Alright, don't cry anymore, I won't ask you anymore. Just remember, no matter what happens, I can help you." Zhan Qingchen said gently.

"Mmm..." Yue Xiaomin responded, nestled in Zhan Qingchen's arms, the two embracing each other, enjoying this rare moment of warmth.

***

"Miss, the ceremony is about to begin, are you...?" In Dongfang Xuanji's room, Dongfang Qin was reporting.

Dongfang Xuanji was still in bed, not because she didn't want to get up, but because Xiao Tianci was holding her tightly and wouldn't let go. This boy had been staying in Dongfang Xuanji's room for the past two days, enjoying all the tenderness, but Dongfang Xuanji was almost scared of him clinging to her. Now, even though he was fast asleep, his hands were still tightly holding her.

"Miss, if you don't get up soon, it might be too late," Dongfang Qin urged, inwardly cursing Xiao Tianci as a bastard.

"Take care of him." Dongfang Xuanji had no choice but to press Xiao Tianci's pressure points to put him to sleep, then pried off his hands that were clinging to her. She sighed slightly, got up to wash and prepare for the ceremony, and before leaving, instructed Dongfang Qin to watch over Xiao Tianci.

"Sister Xuan, are you trying to murder your husband?" Xiao Tianci felt a sharp pain and woke up. "Ah. Sister Qin, it's you?"

"You were sleeping quite comfortably, weren't you? Miss's succession ceremony today, and you're not going to attend?" As soon as Dongfang Xuanji left, Dongfang Qin released Xiao Tianci's pressure points and woke him up.

"Sister Qin, could you be a little gentler when you wake me up next time? At least give Sister Xuan some face, right?" Xiao Tianci didn't dare offend Dongfang Qin, but didn't want to be bullied by her all the time, so he brought up Dongfang Xuanji.

"If you dare tell Miss, I'll make you regret it. Now get up and go to the main hall, I'm leaving." Dongfang Qin had originally been respectful to Xiao Tianci, but seeing him constantly pestering Dongfang Xuanji these past few days, and Dongfang Xuanji always going along with him, she decided to teach him a lesson, and Xiao Tianci ended up getting what he deserved.

***

The succession ceremony was actually quite simple; paying respects to the ancestors and offering sacrifices to the gods was about it.

"I, Dongfang Xuanji, hereby announce to all fellow martial artists that from today onwards, I will pass the position of head of the Dongfang family to my younger brother, Dongfang Yan. From today onwards, unless in dire circumstances, I will no longer concern myself with any affairs of the Dongfang family or the martial arts world." Dongfang Xuanji's calm voice reached everyone's ears, causing quite a stir. Although everyone had heard rumors that Dongfang Xuanji might retire from the martial arts world, hearing it with their own ears felt completely different.

"Younger brother, the Dongfang family is now in your hands."

"Sister, please rest assured, I will definitely ensure the Dongfang family continues to flourish."

The succession ceremony proceeded smoothly. The demonic sect members, hearing that Dongfang Xuanji was resigning from the martial world, were naturally delighted and wouldn't cause any trouble. The righteous sect members, while not wanting Dongfang Xuanji to leave the martial world, also couldn't use any extraordinary means to stop her, given their supposedly upright nature. They could only watch as the rumors became reality. Xiao Tianci, however, was secretly thinking that Dongfang Xuanji would be with him every day, and he was overjoyed.

***

Three days had passed since the succession ceremony, and most of the guests had already left, many hurrying towards White Horse Manor. Lan Tianfeng, Gu Feng, and the three An siblings were still there, naturally because of An Ling. Yue Xiaomin and the others had already left. Xiao Tianci hadn't been seen for days, infuriating An Ling. Every time she tried to find him, she was stopped by Dongfang Xuanji's people, and she cursed Xiao Tianci countless times in her heart.

" Ah

...

URL 1:http://localhost:909/htmlBlog/14689.html

URL 2:/Blog.aspx?id=14689&aspx=1

Previous Page : The Corpse Clothes of the Green Bag [Complete] - 31

Next Page : Wandering the Martial World [Complete] - 1

增加

comment Open a new window to view comments

Contact Information

Wandering the Martial World [Complete] - 2

comment Open a new window to view comments