Wandering the Martial World [Complete] - 26

Volume 3, Chapter 2: The Appearance of Knife Valley.

Xiao Tianci pushed open the door, only to find someone had arrived even faster – Situ Yingwu was already inside. Murong Shuangqing was looking down, while Tong'er glanced quickly at Xiao Tianci before turning her head away. Situ Yingwu stood beside Murong Shuangqing, seemingly comforting her, but no one spoke after Xiao Tianci entered.

"Brother Xiao, your arrival is quite timely," Situ Yingwu said, forcing a smile despite his mixed feelings.

"Surprise? I come here often; it's not really a coincidence," Xiao Tianci said casually.

"Oh? So Brother Xiao considers this his home?" Situ Yingwu smiled slightly.

"Of course, of course. For me, wherever my wife is, that's my home, so naturally this is my home too," Xiao Tianci smiled slightly, but Situ Yingwu's expression changed.

"What does Brother Xiao mean?" Situ Yingwu's smile was forced, almost crumbling.

"My meaning is simple. Brother Situ, are you so clever that you don't understand?" Xiao Tianci said calmly.

"Shuangqing, is that so?" Situ Yingwu asked coldly.

Murong Shuangqing seemed still dazed, as if she hadn't understood their meaning, and didn't answer Situ Yingwu's question for a moment. Situ Yingwu's face flushed red and then pale. Finally, he shook his hand and stormed off.

"Situ Yingwu, don't think I don't know how many things you've done behind my back. I'm only sparing your life for her sake. If you dare do anything out of line, don't blame me," Xiao Tianci said coldly from behind Situ Yingwu. Situ Yingwu's body trembled, he gave a cold snort, and continued walking forward.

"Xiao Tianci, what did you mean by what you just said?" Murong Shuangqing asked coldly.

"Just now? Did I say anything?" Xiao Tianci feigned ignorance.

"Do you know a lot about Situ Yingwu?" Murong Shuangqing continued.

"Not much, but I probably know more than you. Anyway, I hope you don't have any designs on marrying him," Xiao Tianci said calmly.

"Who I marry is none of your business," Murong Shuangqing said angrily, glaring at Xiao Tianci.

"Originally, it was unrelated, but because of Bi'er and Tong'er, it has become related," Xiao Tianci said. "Tong'er has always refused to come with me, but now I know that as long as I marry you, she will naturally come with me. Besides, I promised Bi'er that in order to prevent you from being taken advantage of by that bastard Situ Yingwu, I'll just reluctantly marry you." Xiao Tianci said in a nonchalant manner, but Murong Shuangqing was furious. What did he mean by reluctantly marrying her? He acted as if she, Murong Shuangqing, was unwanted.

"Xiao Tianci, don't count on it. I would never marry you," Murong Shuangqing said coldly, her anger turning into a mocking laugh.

"Do you really want to marry Situ Yingwu? Sigh, marrying your enemy is worse than marrying me. At least I haven't done anything to wrong your Murong family," Xiao Tianci said with a look of regret.

"None of your business. You and Situ Yingwu are birds of a feather, neither of you is any good." Murong Shuangqing couldn't hold back any longer and cursed.

"Oh, so you already know. Do you think this will allow you to get close to him and then take revenge? I'm afraid you'll lose everything, ruining your life without getting your revenge." Xiao Tianci sighed.

"Xiao Tianci, you can leave now." Murong Shuangqing's face flushed red and then turned pale.

"It seems you and Situ Yingwu have already fallen out. If I leave too, I'm afraid no one will come to marry you." Xiao Tianci said calmly.

"Get out of here!" Murong Shuangqing roared at Xiao Tianci like an enraged lioness. This time, Xiao Tianci immediately went out, but gave Tong'er a meaningful look. Tong'er froze, then hesitated before following Xiao Tianci out the door, gently closing it behind her, leaving a narrow crack.

"Young...Young Master Xiao," Tong'er said, her head bowed, not daring to look at Xiao Tianci.

"Tong'er," Xiao Tianci called softly, pulling her close and lowering his head to kiss her cherry lips.

Tong'er was startled, pounding her fists against Xiao Tianci's chest, but her blows grew weaker and weaker until she finally leaned limply against him. The intense stimulation of their kiss had left Tong'er utterly powerless.

“Young Master Xiao, can you let me go now?” Tong’er said softly, her face flushed and adorable, but her tone was somewhat cold.

“Tong’er, come with me,” Xiao Tianci said gently.

Tong’er shook her head, remaining silent.

“Do you really have to force me to get your young lady before you’re willing?” Xiao Tianci said, somewhat annoyed.

“Young Master Xiao, I think you’ve misunderstood. Even if you get the young lady, I won’t agree to go with her as dowry. However, for the sake of the young lady, I won’t refuse whatever you want to do to me,” Tong’er said calmly.

"What an unreasonable woman," Xiao Tianci muttered. "Whether you like it or not, I will keep you by my side."

Xiao Tianci peeked through the crack in the door and saw Murong Shuangqing staring at them. A thought struck him, and he picked up Tong'er, pushed the door open, and went inside.

"Miss, you saved my life, so I shouldn't ask anything of you. However, for Tong'er's sake, please don't mind me doing something despicable," Xiao Tianci said calmly.

"What exactly do you want to say?" Murong Shuangqing asked impatiently.

"You just want revenge, don't you? I can help you, but I want Tong'er," Xiao Tianci said calmly.

"Although Tong'er is my maid, I've always considered her my sister. I won't use her as a bargaining chip. As for revenge, I have my own methods," Murong Shuangqing said, seemingly uninterested in Xiao Tianci's suggestion.

"You have methods? Do you think Situ Yingwu isn't wary of you? Besides, even if you kill Situ Yingwu, what about the Demonic Sect? Can you kill them all? Do you think you can sell your body a few times?" Xiao Tianci said sarcastically.

A crisp "slap" rang out as Xiao Tianci received another slap across the face. He smiled bitterly to himself; he had lost count of how many women had slapped him.

"I won't hold a grudge against you for slapping me once, but I'm taking Tong'er with me," Xiao Tianci said calmly, about to carry Tong'er out.

"Stop! What's the difference between this and robbery?" Murong Shuangqing said angrily.

"There's no difference. You don't cherish yourself, don't drag Tong'er into it." Xiao Tianci said as he walked away without turning his head.

"Let me go! Where are you taking me?" Tong'er struggled stubbornly.

"Tong'er, do you really want your young lady to be humiliated by her enemies?" Xiao Tianci said. Since he couldn't move her emotionally, he had to use other methods.

"I...of course I don't want to. But, will taking me away now help my young lady?" Tong'er said timidly.

"It's alright, I'll take you away first, and then come back to take her away later." Xiao Tianci comforted Tong'er.

Tong'er didn't say anything more; she knew resistance was useless.

"Bi'er, you come with me too." Xiao Tianci smiled slightly when he saw Murong Bi looking at him with surprise.

"Where are we going?" Murong Bi asked, puzzled.

"You'll find out when you come with me," Xiao Tianci said.

Xiao Tianci took Tong'er and Murong Bi to Yan Wuxin's place. Yan Wuxin was somewhat annoyed but agreed to take care of the two. After settling them in, Xiao Tianci returned to Murong Shuangqing's place.

"Where are Tong'er and my sister?" Murong Bi asked angrily.

"They're safe, but you're not safe now. I'm here to take you away," Xiao Tianci said calmly.

"You're crazy! You're insane!" Murong Shuangqing cursed.

“Time is running out, I have no choice but to use force.” A hint of worry flashed across Xiao Tianci’s face as he suddenly reached out and grabbed Murong Shuangqing. Murong Shuangqing hadn’t expected Xiao Tianci to make such a move, and given their close proximity, she had no time to dodge and was already in Xiao Tianci’s grasp.

“Young Master Xiao, please put Shuang’er down.” A deep voice sounded from the doorway. Xiao Tianci turned around abruptly and saw that it was Murong Bai.

“So Senior Murong has recovered from her injuries, that’s truly a cause for celebration.” Xiao Tianci not only didn’t put Murong Shuangqing down, but instead held her even tighter, completely ignoring the murderous look in Murong Shuangqing’s eyes.

“Young Master Xiao is already a force to be reckoned with in the martial world today, I don’t think it’s appropriate to use such underhanded methods,” Murong Bai said calmly.

"I don't have time to explain now. Perhaps you'll understand in a day, Senior Murong. I'm doing this for her own good," Xiao Tianci said with a calm smile. "Also, it would be best if Senior Murong came with me. It would put your mind at ease."

Murong Bai was taken aback. Xiao Tianci's actions were somewhat perplexing. After a moment's consideration, he finally followed behind Xiao Tianci, wanting to see what he was up to.

"Why did you bring so many people here?" Yan Wuxin asked Xiao Tianci angrily.

"If I'm not mistaken, White Horse Manor might soon be a bloodbath. I can only feel a little safer with them here," Xiao Tianci's words were astounding, leaving Yan Wuxin stunned.

"Are you talking nonsense?" Yan Wuxin gave Xiao Tianci a reproachful look.

"I think the people from Blade Valley will find me soon, and the people from the Demonic Sect should be here soon too. I'm not entirely sure of Blade Valley's strength, but if they all come out, I'm afraid no one here can resist them. Even if I can't win, I think I can escape. I'm just a little worried about you. Situ Yingwu has been planning this for so long; I think it's time for him to make his final move," Xiao Tianci said slowly.

"Do you have evidence or are you just guessing?" Yan Wuxin still didn't quite believe Xiao Tianci.

"Just guessing," Xiao Tianci said casually, and in fact, he really was just guessing.

"Then how can I believe you?" Yan Wuxin said irritably.

"Would I harm you? Here's some medicine: this is an antidote, this is an antidote for sleeping pills, and this is an antidote for aphrodisiacs. I don't want to be cuckolded, so be careful." Xiao Tianci shoved a bunch of bottles at Yan Wuxin, all given to him by Tang Feishuang. His words made Yan Wuxin want to kick him out. The Murong family members nearby stared at the two of them in disbelief.

"Where are you going?" Yan Wuxin asked, seeing that Xiao Tianci seemed to be leaving.

"I'm going to the city to find Xiao Jing. I have her inform Xiao Yu and the others about some things." Xiao Tianci gave Yan Wuxin a gentle look. "Listen to me, don't go out. Perhaps Situ Yingwu has some scheme. I'll send the people from Daogu to find you."

"You...you be careful too," Yan Wuxin whispered.

"Don't worry, I'll be fine. How could I bear to leave you?" Xiao Tianci chuckled, quickly kissing Yan Wuxin on the cheek, then kissing each of the three Murong girls on the cheek, laughing heartily before disappearing through the window.

"Fairy Yan, what... what do we do now?" Murong Bai's mind was practically blank.

"Let's listen to him first. His information network is usually quite good; he shouldn't spread rumors." Yan Wuxin's face was still burning. The things she wanted to hide had been discovered by some people again. She now felt that Xiao Tianci seemed to be deliberately letting more and more people know about her and him. She cursed Xiao Tianci inwardly; this guy was simply pushing his luck, insisting that she openly follow him before he was satisfied.

"Sister Wuxin, is he very good to you?" Murong Bi asked, leaning closer to Yan Wuxin.

A few blushes appeared on Yan Wuxin's fair face, but she didn't answer Murong Bi's question. Murong Shuangqing, on the other hand, was deep in thought.

**********

"They've arrived so quickly?" Xiao Tianci murmured. He had only left White Horse Manor a short while ago, and hadn't even reached the city when he found two people blocking his way. They were two young men, also dressed in white, each carrying a strange sword on their back. Their aura seemed very similar to Han Tianxia's, and Xiao Tianci's first thought was that the people from Blade Valley had arrived.

"Excuse me, do you know where Xiao Tianci is?" asked the slightly thinner man on the left.

"I am Xiao Tianci. May I ask your names?" Xiao Tianci said calmly. What's meant to happen will happen; there's no use hiding. It's better to face it directly.

"Blade Valley, Han Jiuzhou." It was the same thinner man again.

“Knife Valley, Han Zhongyuan,” another man said. Both men’s voices were cold and clear.

“What brings you two gentlemen to me?” Xiao Tianci had also learned the tactic of feigning ignorance.

“Is Young Master Xiao truly unaware, or is he feigning ignorance?” Han Jiuzhou countered.

“While I know a little, I don’t fully understand, so I would appreciate it if you two could clarify,” Xiao Tianci said with a slight smile.

“Now everyone in the martial world knows that Young Master Xiao murdered the Knife Lord of this Valley for your wife, the Sword Queen Qin Mengru. You wouldn’t deny that, would you?” Han Zhongyuan said coldly.

“Rumors in the martial world cannot be entirely trusted. Brother Han Tianxia, the Knife Lord, is still my friend. Why would I kill him? It’s just that some petty people are spreading rumors behind the scenes. I hope you two can investigate this carefully.” Although Xiao Tianci knew it was almost impossible for the people of Knife Valley to believe him, he still wanted to try.

Volume 3, Chapter 3: Fiery Beauty

"If you weren't a friend of the Sword Master, how could you have succeeded in your sneak attack?" Han Jiuzhou said coldly. "Xiao Tianci, a true man should be accountable for his actions. If you've done it, don't deny it."

"Of course I'll admit it if I did, but admitting it even if I didn't is not the behavior of a true man," Xiao Tianci said calmly. "I wouldn't mind if you wanted me to avenge Brother Han, but I'll say it again: I didn't kill him." "

Not many people would admit to doing something despicable," Han Zhongyuan interjected coldly.

"Since you two have already concluded that it was me who did it, there's no point in me explaining," Xiao Tianci said calmly. "However, in reality, even if I really did it, Mengru wouldn't forgive me." "

Although Qin Mengru is a legendary swordswoman, she is ultimately a woman. A woman in love is unreasonable. No matter how many bad things you do, she won't do anything to you," Han Jiuzhou said coldly.

"It seems there's only one way to resolve this matter," Xiao Tianci said with a wry smile.

"No, you can choose to commit suicide or we can do it for you," Han Zhongyuan said arrogantly.

"I've thought about everything in my life, but never about suicide," Xiao Tianci said calmly. "Would you two come one at a time or together?"

"To deal with you, I alone am enough," Han Jiuzhou slowly uttered. Suddenly, a knife appeared in his hand, longer than an ordinary sword, black and without any luster. The blade was thick and seemed very heavy.

"Brother Han, please!" Xiao Tianci stood casually, seemingly without any defense. Han Jiuzhou felt a surge of anger, because Xiao Tianci's attitude clearly showed he wasn't taken seriously.

The surrounding air seemed to freeze instantly. Han Jiuzhou slowly raised the knife in his hand, very slowly, yet Xiao Tianci felt immense pressure, though outwardly he remained nonchalant. Suddenly, a fierce wind seemed to rise from the ground, enveloping Xiao Tianci and threatening to devour him. Han Jiuzhou had made his move, unleashing a devastating slash with overwhelming force. The indestructible wind of the blade enveloped Xiao Tianci, making him feel like a small boat adrift in a raging storm.

Xiao Tianci didn't move or react at all. Han Jiuzhou's expression changed, turning ashen. The previously overwhelming wind of the blade abruptly ceased, and the surroundings instantly returned to calm.

"How did you know?" Han Jiuzhou asked, his voice hoarse.

"Just a feeling," Xiao Tianci replied calmly.

“Only a true master would have this kind of feeling,” Han Jiuzhou murmured. “Xiao Tianci, from now on, I will treat you with the respect due to an opponent.”

“I would rather you not come looking for trouble than receive this kind of respect,” Xiao Tianci said with a wry smile. Han Jiuzhou’s strike just now was indeed powerful, but its power was built on the opponent’s resistance. If the opponent didn’t take any action, the move would be futile. Almost no one knew this secret, and Xiao Tianci had seen through it on their first encounter, which couldn’t help but inspire a sense of admiration in him.

"Although I respect you, you are still an enemy of my Blade Valley, and I will not give up my pursuit of you just because I was defeated by you," Han Jiuzhou said calmly. "I know we cannot kill you today, but Blade Valley is not just the two of us. I hope Brother Xiao takes care. We'll take our leave."

Han Jiuzhou and Han Zhongyuan quickly disappeared from Xiao Tianci's sight. These two were truly decisive, leaving as soon as they said they would.

"Take care? Take care so you can kill me?" Xiao Tianci murmured.

Xiao Tianci shook his head, thinking it best to go to Yue Xiaojing's place.

Arriving at Mingyue Restaurant, he was startled to find the area surrounded by soldiers.

"I am the Prefect of this Prefecture. The Mingyue Restaurant is harboring a wanted criminal. I have been ordered to arrest him and, effective immediately, seal off the restaurant. All those involved must be brought to the yamen." A man with a large face and ears, dressed in official robes, was issuing orders with a swaying head.

"Anyone who dares to approach, I'll kill them!" Yue Xiaojing, sword in hand, stood in front of the soldiers and said coldly.

"Does the young lady think she can hold off all these soldiers?" Beside the Prefect stood a middle-aged man in military uniform, with a rather imposing appearance.

"Tell Zhu Zheng he'd better not try this with me." Xiao Tianci landed beside Yue Xiaojing and said coldly.

"How dare you address the Emperor like that!" The Prefect shouted, making a move to send men to arrest Xiao Tianci.

"You're just a lowly prefect, don't try to intimidate me, or you'll die without even knowing why," Xiao Tianci said calmly. "You'd better leave with these people now, or I'll kill you right now." The

words had barely left his lips when Xiao Tianci drew his sword and placed it against the prefect's neck.

"You, who are you? How dare you threaten an official of the court?" the prefect said, his voice trembling.

"You want to arrest a wanted criminal? I am one. I'm already a wanted criminal, so what's one more? Tell me, are you going to take them away now, or are you going to stay here forever?" Xiao Tianci said softly.

"Alright, I'll go, I'll go," the prefect said tremblingly. Xiao Tianci smiled slightly, lowered the sword from his neck, and the prefect hurriedly retreated as if fleeing for his life. The general in military uniform beside him shook his head, gave Xiao Tianci a deep look, and turned to follow the prefect.

"Young Master, what do we do now?" Yue Xiaojing asked softly as they returned to the house.

"Xiaojing, notify all disciples of the Hundred Flowers Palace and Bright Moon Palace to close all Bright Moon Restaurants and Hundred Flowers Restaurants, and have them all return to the Free and Unfettered Sect. Also, have Xiaoyu arrange for a few people to meet them. Let them use Ruolan's white crane; make sure they work hard and don't get into trouble on the way," Xiao Tianci said after a moment's thought.

"But, Young Master, how will we gather intelligence in the future?" Yue Xiaojing asked hesitantly.

"We don't aspire to dominate the martial world. Intelligence isn't that important. In my eyes, your safety is paramount," Xiao Tianci said softly. "Now that the imperial court knows about my connection to Mingyue Restaurant and Baihua Restaurant, I believe the martial world knows as well. Many with ulterior motives might target these places. I don't want you to be harmed."

"Xiao Jing, immediately issue the order—or rather, this is an order that must be carried out. I, Xiao Tianci, as the leader of the Xiaoyao Sect, issue this order: everyone must retreat to the Xiaoyao Sect. Not a single one is allowed to remain," Xiao Tianci said solemnly.

"Yes, I'll go immediately." Yue Xiaojing glanced at Xiao Tianci tenderly before finally turning and leaving.

"It seems what's coming is finally here," Xiao Tianci murmured, gazing at the distant void.

"Young Master, the order has been issued," Yue Xiaojing returned shortly after.

"Alright, you should prepare yourself and leave immediately." Xiao Tianci looked at Yue Xiaojing and said softly.

"Young Master, what about you?" Yue Xiaojing looked up.

"I have some things to attend to. You take them back first, and remember to be careful on the way." Xiao Tianci gently embraced Yue Xiaojing, softly stroking her hair, and whispered.

"Young Master, I want to go with you," Yue Xiaojing said softly.

"Xiaojing, listen to me. You take them back first. Among these people, only you have higher martial arts skills. Without you, they are more likely to get into trouble, understand?" Xiao Tianci said. "Don't worry, I will be back soon, and then I won't leave you again." Xiao Tianci's tone was filled with longing.

Yue Xiaojing finally left reluctantly, taking the disciples of Mingyue Palace with her. She would ultimately listen to Xiao Tianci. Xiao Tianci secretly escorted them out of the city, and only returned after confirming they were no longer in danger.

Xiao Tianci stood quietly before the Bright Moon Restaurant, now an empty building.

Suddenly, fierce flames erupted in the night sky, illuminating half the sky red.

"White Horse Manor?" Xiao Tianci looked in the direction of White Horse Manor. A thought struck him, and he sprang to life, quickly heading towards the manor.

************

White Horse Manor was engulfed in flames. Soon after nightfall, it was discovered that the manor was on fire, and the fire grew increasingly fierce, quickly engulfing the manor in flames.

"How could that bastard be so accurate!" Yan Wuxin muttered, cursing. The fire hadn't even reached them yet, but wisps of smoke were already seeping into the rooms.

"Ugh, so sleepy." Murong Bi yawned and slumped onto the bed. Yan Wuxin was startled and immediately realized something was wrong. She quickly pulled out a bunch of bottles Xiao Tianci had given her, and fed Murong Bi one of each, regardless of what it was.

"Quick, you two take some too. There might be poison in the smoke." Although Yan Wuxin herself was fine, Murong Bi shouldn't be acting like this, so she couldn't help but be suspicious.

"Why was I so sleepy just now?" Tang Feishuang's medicine was indeed effective; a moment later, Murong Bi woke up and asked blankly.

"Sister, you were just poisoned!" Murong Shuang sighed.

"Fairy Yan, what do we do now?" Murong Bai asked Yan Wuxin.

"Judging from the fire, it shouldn't reach us anytime soon," Yan Wuxin pondered for a moment. "I'll go out and check first. Young Master Murong and the three young ladies, you should all stay here and observe the situation."

"Fairy Yan, shall I go with you?" Murong Bai said.

"Young Master Murong, you should stay here and take care of your niece. Otherwise, if anything happens, I'm afraid I won't be able to explain it to him," Yan Wuxin sighed softly, thinking of that hateful man again.

Although White Horse Manor was engulfed in flames, there were no signs of chaos, as very few people could be seen.

"Could they all be poisoned?" Yan Wuxin wondered, her heart skipping a beat, and she quickened her pace.

"Fairy Yan, it's good to see you." Yan Wuxin stepped into the room of Daoist Chongxu of Wudang, only to find many people there. Master Qingxin, the head of Emei Sect, Ye Qiuhan, the head of Kunlun Sect, Sun Yuxi, the head of Qingcheng Sect, Huiming of Shaolin, and Xiao Jinghong were all present. Seeing Yan Wuxin enter, Daoist Chongxu quickly greeted her.

"Daoist, how is the situation now?" Yan Wuxin asked.

"Fairy Yan, at first we thought it was just a fire, but later we discovered the smoke was poisonous. Those with lower cultivation levels have already fainted. Apart from the sect leaders, everyone else is probably incapacitated. And we still don't know who is coming to deal with us; we haven't seen the enemy yet," Daoist Chongxu sighed.

"Where is Alliance Leader Situ?" Yan Wuxin asked.

"Alliance Leader Situ and the Situ family have all disappeared, as have the Murong family," sighed Daoist Chongxu. "That's why the leaders of our various sects came together to discuss countermeasures. We were just about to invite you, Fairy, when you arrived."

"Here are some antidote pills. Each of you take one. Since the quantity is limited, any extras should be given to the most skilled disciples. People from the Demonic Sect may arrive soon," Yan Wuxin said, pulling a bottle from her robes.

"Fairy Yan, are you sure this will work?" Xiao Jinghong asked again, oblivious to the danger.

"Master Xiao, of course what Fairy Yan gives us will be effective," Daoist Chongxu quickly replied, taking a pill himself.

"Time is running out. Everyone, prepare quickly," Yan Wuxin said calmly, already sensing the approaching experts.

The antidote was ultimately limited, and in the end, each sect only managed to revive a few people. Xiao Tianfeng and Xiao Yuru were among those saved. The smoke gradually dissipated, and those who had regained consciousness moved most of the people to the main hall for protection. Bai Yulou watched as his painstakingly built White Horse Manor was almost reduced to ashes, yet he seemed largely unmoved. Perhaps the numerous blows had numbed him?

"I never expected a fire to fail to kill you all. Since you're so lucky, we'll have to send you on your way ourselves." A sinister voice reached everyone's ears, and dozens of figures descended upon the scene.

"The people of the Demonic Sect will never amount to anything. Besides knowing some low-level tricks, they'll never come up with any righteous methods," Chongxu said calmly.

"Whether the method is righteous or not is unimportant, as long as it's effective," said Su Poyun, who coldly glanced at Yan Wuxin.

"Incurable," Yan Wuxin said coldly.

"Although I, Su Poyun, am despicable, I'm still better than some women who appear pure and innocent on the surface but are secretly lewd. Fairy Yan, don't you agree?" Su Poyun stared at Yan Wuxin.

"Su Poyun, there's probably no one in this world more shameless than you," Yan Wuxin said calmly, naturally understanding that Su Poyun's words were a veiled reference to her.

"Shameless? Haha, I am shameless, but even I, in my shamelessness, never imagined that two generations of disciples of the dignified Tianxin Pavilion would submit to the same man. Truly a deep bond between master and disciple, even choosing the same man!" Su Poyun laughed wildly, his tone filled with insane jealousy.

Volume 3, Chapter 4: The Tribulations of the Martial World

"Su Poyun, you are also a grandmaster. Don't you think it's beneath your dignity to use such pointless words to slander Fairy Yan?" said Daoist Chongxu.

"Slander? Chongxu, ask Yan Wuxin. Did I slander her? I saw Xiao Tianci and this woman being affectionate in front of me with my own eyes. I, Su Poyun, would not speak without evidence." Su Poyun seemed to have forgotten the purpose of his visit; he had been blinded by jealousy.

"Su Poyun, do you know why you can't achieve great things?" Yan Wuxin said calmly. "Looking at you now, I really doubt you can become the sect leader of a major sect in the Demonic Path." Yan Wuxin didn't deny it. In fact, the more you deny something, the more people believe it. On the contrary, if she said nothing, others might not believe her.

"What a pity, Yan Wuxin. Your lover is probably not far from death. You'll meet again in the underworld then," Su Poyun said, seemingly controlling his emotions, his laughter subsiding, replaced by a look of regret.

"I'm afraid it'll be you going to the underworld," Yan Wuxin replied calmly, the slight unease in her heart instantly subsiding.

"Enough with the nonsense, Su Poyun. Show me your moves," Chongxu said coldly, suddenly feeling a sharp pain in his waist, followed by a heavy blow to his back. A sweet taste filled his throat, and he spat out a mouthful of blood.

"You... how could you?" Chongxu stared in disbelief at the person who had attacked him—it was Bai Yulou.

"Hahaha," Bai Yulou laughed wildly, drawing his longsword and leaping swiftly towards the Demonic Sect, blood spraying from Chongxu's body.

"A treacherous villain." A blush crept across Yan Wuxin's fair face. With a flash of sword light, Bai Yulou screamed and collapsed to the ground.

Yan Wuxin swiftly applied two points to Chongxu's body to stop the bleeding, then asked with concern, "Daoist, how are you feeling?"

"I'm fine, I won't die. It's just that I can't help you fight these demons anymore. Fairy Yan, the righteous martial arts world will depend on you from now on," Chongxu said, panting. He was not only physically injured, but even more so emotionally wounded.

"Bai Yulou, you were once the leader of the White Alliance, yet you colluded with the demonic sect. You truly deserve to die," Yan Wuxin said coldly. Bai Yulou wasn't dead yet. Although Yan Wuxin had shattered his Qi Sea with a sword strike, crippling all his power, she hadn't killed him.

"I, Bai Yulou, was once so glorious, but now I've become like this. It's all because of that bastard Xiao Tianci. Since the people of the Demonic Sect can help me kill him, why not help them this once too?" Bai Yulou lay on the ground, but a smile appeared on his face, which looked somewhat ferocious. His originally very handsome face was slightly distorted.

"My bright future was ruined by Xiao Tianci! He won't let me live well, and I won't let him live well either!" Bai Yulou roared hoarsely. "And you so-called righteous sects! When my Hero Alliance was strong, you all treated me with great respect. Now that I've fallen, you all abandon me. Nominally, my White Horse Manor is the headquarters of the White Alliance, but who has ever consulted me on important matters? You're lucky I didn't burn you all to death today, hahaha!" Bai Yulou laughed wildly without restraint, his voice gradually fading until it was completely silent. A moment later, blood flowed from his nostrils and the corners of his eyes; he was dead. "What a pity,

what a pity. He was the future hope of the martial world, but he fell into the demonic path," Chongxu said weakly. But at this moment, he didn't hate Bai Yulou; instead, he felt sorry for him. One wonders what Bai Yulou would think if he knew this in the afterlife.

"Yan Wuxin, now that your biggest helper is half-dead, what can you do alone?" Su Poyun laughed smugly.

"Dealing with you all is enough for me alone, especially with the leaders of the various sects here," Yan Wuxin said calmly. "Su Poyun, you're no match for me. You should let the one next to you handle this."

"I'd like to try," Su Poyun coldly snorted, lunging forward and beginning the Demonic Sect's attack. Xiao Cangtian, Zhu Xingxian, and other Demonic Sect experts also rushed towards the righteous heroes.

Zhu Xingxian faced Xiao Jinghong, Xiao Cangtian faced Ye Qiuhan, and Huiming and Sun Yuxi were taken down by a short old man who fought two against one.

The situation on the field was clear at a glance: the demonic sect experts held the upper hand, and apart from Yan Wuxin's group, the other righteous heroes were gradually being forced into a state of disarray by their opponents.

"You treacherous dogs of the demonic sect, the Murong family has come to collect their debt!" A furious shout rang out, and a middle-aged man in white appeared on the battlefield, immediately lunging at Xiao Cangtian, who was fighting Ye Qiuhan. He was none other than Murong Bai of the Murong family. He, the two Murong sisters, and Tong'er had been watching from the shadows for a long time, but finally couldn't resist coming out.

With a "bang," Xiao Jinghong was knocked back several steps by Zhu Xingxian.

"Master Xiao, are you alright?" A ghostly figure appeared beside Xiao Jinghong and reached out to support him.

"Thank you, Young Master Situ, I'm fine," Xiao Jinghong said with a forced smile.

"Master Xiao, be careful!" Yan Wuxin, who had been distracted by the battles of the others, was startled by Situ Yingwu's sudden appearance. A sense of foreboding rose in her heart, and

she quickly warned him. However, it was too late. A cruel smile appeared on Situ Yingwu's face. Xiao Jinghong's eyes widened in shock. He didn't even have time to scream before he collapsed, closing his eyes in despair. A dignified White Ranking expert, he died so inexplicably.

"Father!" Xiao Yuru cried out in grief, trying to rush over, but was entangled by a woman from the Demonic Sect.

"Situ Yingwu, you despicable villain!" Xiao Tianfeng shouted in anger, forcing back his opponent with a few swift sword strikes and charging towards them.

"Xiao Tianfeng, you're still a bit short when it comes to revenge," Situ Yingwu said disdainfully, his hand slightly waving as Situ Feng blocked him.

"Sect Leader Su, I've removed the main trouble for you. The rest is up to you. I'll rest for now." Situ Yingwu said he'd rest, and he actually started to rest. The righteous heroes gritted their teeth in hatred, but there was nothing they could do; they were all barely able to protect themselves.

"The sword has no heart," Yan Wuxin uttered softly, his sword aura suddenly changing, a continuous stream of sword energy swirling towards Su Poyun.

"Still this move?" Su Poyun sneered, but before he could finish, his face froze.

"Ugh." Su Poyun groaned in pain, flying back more than two zhang, blood seeping from between his fingers as he clutched his chest.

"You...you've mastered the highest level of the Heart Sword Divine Technique?" Su Poyun stared at Yan Wuxin in disbelief. Just a few months ago, Yan Wuxin could only manage a draw with him. He never expected that in such a short time, Yan Wuxin's martial arts would improve so dramatically.

"You can die in peace now, can't you?" Yan Wuxin said calmly, ignoring Su Poyun, and turned to slowly walk towards Situ Yingwu.

"Fairy Yan's martial arts have improved so much, truly a cause for celebration!" Situ Yingwu said with a forced smile.

"Is that so? Situ Yingwu, this doesn't seem like something to celebrate for you," Yan Wuxin said coldly, a murderous intent rising within her.

Yan Wuxin's longsword slightly pointed at Situ Yingwu, a strong killing intent surging within her. She wanted to kill him with this one strike.

"Fairy Yan, you should kill me first." A soft voice rang out, and a beautiful girl in yellow suddenly appeared in front of Yan Wuxin.

"Miss Situ, are you also going to collude with Situ Yingwu?" Yan Wuxin said coldly. The girl before her was Situ Yu.

"He is my own brother. It's only right that I help him. It's not about colluding with him," Situ Yu said, her expression unchanged, her tone still soft.

"How can you face Xiao Tianci?" Yan Wuxin looked at Situ Yu with a hint of disappointment.

Situ Yu's delicate body trembled, a trace of resentment flashing in her eyes, but she remained silent.

"No matter where he goes, he can't let you go. And you? Do you even know that he might be in danger now? And the reason he's in this situation is because of you, his so-called brother. Ask yourself, have you done right by him?" Yan Wuxin's tone was icy.

"If he really died, I would definitely avenge him. But I believe he won't die," Situ Yu finally uttered after a long silence, making Yan Wuxin want to curse.

"Fine, I'll spare him today, this time for your sake. Next time I see him, I won't give face to anyone," Yan Wuxin finally said, barely suppressing his anger. He turned and lunged at the Demonic Sect members. Several screams rang out instantly. Yan Wuxin vented all his fury on the Demonic Sect members, but the ordinary disciples of the Demonic Sect were no match for the crazed Yan Wuxin.

Two more muffled groans escaped, and Huiming and Sun Yuxi, their faces pale, stumbled backward. Yan Wuxin caught a glimpse of this and quickly rushed over.

"Fang Ce, stop dressing like that," Yan Wuxin said to the old man. "As expected of

Fairy Yan, you are not to be underestimated. So you already knew who I was. A woman as clever and beautiful as you is truly hard to find. What a pity, what a pity, that bastard Xiao Tianci beat you to it. But it doesn't matter, one day I will definitely enjoy you properly. Haha." Fang Ce chuckled sinisterly.

"A toad lusting after a swan," Yan Wuxin coldly snorted. "Yao'er didn't kill you last time, yet you still show no remorse. Now I finally understand, people like you will never repent. It's better to send you straight to hell, that would be the end of it all, and the martial world would finally be peaceful." Yan Wuxin's state of mind had drastically changed today; she no longer cared about mercy. Her heart was filled with a murderous intent, though perhaps even she herself didn't know why she had become this way.

After speaking, Yan Wuxin lunged at Fang Ce. All her power had been gathered to its peak; the highest essence of the Heart Sword Divine Technique had been fully unleashed. Her perfect swordsmanship launched a flawless attack on Fang Ce's body.

A resounding, clear sound echoed through the night sky, and dazzling light shone from the clash of swords. The two separated as soon as they met. Large beads of sweat dripped from Fang Ce's forehead, while Yan Wuxin's forehead seemed to have a slight, glistening sheen.

"Go!" Fang Ce spat out a mouthful of blood and flew backward rapidly. Xiao Cangtian took a blow from Murong Bai and used the force of the blow to fly away as well. Zhu Xingxian was not to be outdone and led the other disciples of the Demonic Sect to leave quickly. The heroes of the White Path did not even have the courage to give chase.

Situ Yingwu and his group had already left White Horse Manor after Fang Ce left.

"Sister Wuxin, are you alright?" Murong Bi suddenly appeared and rushed to Yan Wuxin's side, asking anxiously.

"I'm fine, just a little exhausted. I just rested and I'm much better now." Yan Wuxin shook her head slightly, but her face was still a little pale.

White Horse Manor was in a mess. Xiao Yuru lay beside Xiao Jinghong's body, crying silently. Xiao Tianfeng's face was ashen as he stared blankly at his father's corpse.

"Fairy Yan, something's happened. All the poisoned people we left in the hall have disappeared," Ye Qiuhan said hurriedly to Yan Wuxin.

"No need to say it's that bastard Situ Yingwu's doing," Murong Bi said from the side. The others remained silent, but seemed to share the same thought.

"We can't think about that now. Our priority is to preserve our last remaining strength. One day, I will settle this score with them," Yan Wuxin said calmly.

"Fairy Yan, you can make all the decisions," Ye Qiuhan said. The others nodded in agreement. Without Yan Wuxin's help, who knows how many of them would have survived the most critical moment.

"We can't stay here any longer. We must find a place to stay quickly. Also, Master Chongxu's injuries are severe and he needs immediate treatment," Yan Wuxin said. "Let's leave now and head to the city first."

After counting the people, Shaolin only had Huiming left. Wudang, besides Master Chongxu, had four other young disciples, the most outstanding young disciples of Wudang, known as the Four Sons of Wudang. Kunlun only had Ye Qiuhan here, so there weren't many. Emei only had Abbess Qingxin and Yun Xinwu, but Yun Xinwu seemed to have disappeared. Jianhu Manor had Xiao Tianfeng and Xiao Yuru, brother and sister. Qingcheng had Sun Yuxi and two disciples accompanying them, the Qingcheng Twin Heroes, also top figures of the Qingcheng Sect. Adding the four from the Murong family, there were actually fewer than twenty people left.

"Sister Wuxin, will that big pervert... will he be alright?" Murong Bi asked secretly.

"Probably not." Yan Wuxin didn't know who she was trying to comfort. She had just heard that Yun Xinwu had disappeared, and her heart had already skipped a beat.

The group of a dozen or so people arrived in the city at dawn. Chongxu Daoist's injuries had stabilized after simple treatment, but he still needed care and was far from being able to fight. Both the White Alliance and the Demonic Sect suffered heavy losses this time. The White Alliance had only a dozen or so elites left, while the Demonic Sect had also lost many skilled fighters, plus Su Poyun. However, all the Demonic Sect members died at Yan Wuxin's hands. The biggest beneficiary of this battle was probably Situ Yingwu, who not only suffered no losses but also captured a large number of White Alliance hostages. (

Volume 3, Chapter 5: A Fierce Battle

) Meanwhile, Xiao Tianci was rushing towards White Horse Manor when he encountered an acquaintance on the way—or rather, two. This person was carrying someone else, who appeared to be unconscious.

"Senior Brother, you're getting more and more impressive, actually resorting to abducting women." Xiao Tianci said calmly. This person was none other than Du Youren from Sword Lake Manor, and although the person in his arms was unclear, it was obvious that she was a young girl.

"Xiao Tianci, this is none of your business," Du Youren said, looking at Xiao Tianci with hostility.

"Senior Brother, after you give me the person you have, what you do is none of my business," Xiao Tianci said, vaguely sensing that the girl in Du Youren's arms seemed to be someone he knew.

"Xiao Tianci, don't push your luck! She has nothing to do with you!" Du Youren said angrily.

"How do you know she has nothing to do with me? At least let me see who she is first!" Xiao Tianci said.

"You and she have never gotten along, how could she have anything to do with you?" Du Youren retorted angrily.

"Oh? So, I should know her after all. In that case, it's your fault, Senior Brother. How could you lay a hand on my friend?" Xiao Tianci said lazily.

"Xiao Tianci, what exactly do you want?" Du Youren shouted angrily.

"It's simple. Put her down, and you can leave," Xiao Tianci said coldly.

"Xiao Tianci, don't force me. I'll fight her to the death! If I can't have her, neither can you!" Du Youren said fiercely.

"So she's Senior Brother's sweetheart? Could it be Xiao Yuru?" Xiao Tianci said, startled. He had previously sensed that Du Youren seemed to have some feelings for Xiao Yuru.

"You... how did you know?" Du Youren looked surprised.

"It really is her, Senior Brother. You're right, she's been mean to me. I didn't want to get involved anyway." Xiao Tianci paused, then, seeing Du Youren's seemingly pleased expression, added, "However, she's still my sister-in-law. If she's willing to go with you, I naturally won't interfere. But what you're doing isn't good." The last half of his sentence sent Du Youren plummeting from heaven to hell.

"Xiao Tianci, do you believe I'll kill her right now?" Du Youren's face changed, and he abruptly threw off the blanket covering the girl's face, raising his hand as if to strike. Suddenly, his expression changed again, as if he couldn't believe it: "What, what if it's not her?" He looked utterly horrified.

Xiao Tianci didn't have time to think about the meaning of his words, because Du Youren was currently distracted, presenting him with his best opportunity. He used his Xuanji Step, flashing to Du Youren's side and snatching the girl from his grasp. Upon seeing the girl's face, it was he who was shocked. The girl was none other than Yun Xinwu.

"Senior Brother, when you came here, you didn't do anything to her, did you?" Xiao Tianci's face was icy, his tone devoid of any emotion.

"How could that be? She was clearly in her bed. How could I be wrong?" Du Youren was still muttering to himself.

"Senior Brother, I really wanted to let you go, but unfortunately, you did something you shouldn't have done. You shouldn't have set your sights on Xinwu." A ruthless glint flashed in Xiao Tianci's eyes, and he raised his hand to strike Du Youren. Du Youren was sent flying several feet away, still writhing on the ground, mumbling something. Xiao Tianci got up, intending to go over and finish him off.

"Alright, he's already in a terrible state." The person in his arms suddenly spoke, and Xiao Tianci stopped, somewhat amused and exasperated.

"You weren't unconscious?" Xiao Tianci asked.

"You're the one who's unconscious! Aren't you going to put me down?" Yun Xinwu rolled her eyes at him.

"I won't," Xiao Tianci thought to himself, pretending not to hear Yun Xinwu's words, and continued to hold her nonchalantly.

"Sigh, put me down," Yun Xinwu said, sounding a little annoyed.

"Put me down? Why should I put me down?" Xiao Tianci looked completely clueless. Yun Xinwu was both annoyed and amused, but didn't know what to say. She couldn't do anything about such a shameless person.

"Someone's coming," Yun Xinwu suddenly said softly. This time, Xiao Tianci took the initiative to put her down, but held her tightly around the waist.

Four people appeared around him, one on each side, one at each angle. Two were old and two were young, all dressed in white. The two younger ones were people he had already met before, Han Zhongyuan and Han Jiuzhou. The two older ones were probably around sixty years old, with some gray beards, but they were still very energetic.

"May I ask how these two seniors should be addressed?" Xiao Tianci

asked with a slight smile. "These two are my second and third senior uncles, Han Chen, the Earth Blade, and Han Ran, the Human Blade," Han Jiuzhou introduced them to Xiao Tianci.

"So, your master must be the Heavenly Blade?" Xiao Tianci still smiled slightly.

"That's right, my master is indeed Han Xiang, the Heavenly Blade," Han Jiuzhou nodded slightly.

"Is this your masterpiece? Judging from how you addressed him, he should be your senior brother. How could you be so ruthless towards him?" Han Chen spoke.

"I don't think Senior Han thinks his kidnapping of the girl was right, do you? I think even if he were my senior brother, he shouldn't do things that are against all reason," Xiao Tianci said calmly.

"However, judging from the current situation, it seems that you are the one who kidnapped the girl," Han Ran said, glancing at Yun Xinwu.

“Xinwu, you should explain it yourself.” Xiao Tianci sighed, gazing at White Horse Manor in the distance. The fire seemed to have subsided considerably, but what had happened there remained unknown. Although he wanted to go and see, he knew it was almost impossible now, at least not at the moment.

“It seems the two seniors have misunderstood. He did indeed injure someone to save me.” This time, Yun Xinwu didn't add insult to injury for Xiao Tianci.

“Whether it's a misunderstanding or not is unimportant to us. However, judging from your methods, it's not hard to imagine that you were capable of attacking my Valley Blade Lord back then.” Han Chen said in a deep voice.

"You actually connected these things? I really admire you," Xiao Tianci thought to himself, then said somewhat helplessly, "I've said it many times, I didn't kill Brother Han Tianxia. If you don't believe me, there's nothing I can do."

"Enough talk. I've heard from Jiuzhou that your martial arts are superb. Now, I'll be the first to experience it," Han Ran said, taking a step forward.

"Sigh, why must we fight?" Xiao Tianci sighed, then turned to Yun Xinwu and said, "Xinwu, you watch from the sidelines. No matter what, don't make a move." Yun Xinwu gave Xiao Tianci a complicated look and silently stepped back.

"What is love in this world that makes people willing to die for it?" Xiao Tianci murmured. This time, he made the first move. The "Unwavering Devotion" of the Passionate Sword Technique is a sword imbued with emotion, emotion attached to the sword. For years, the deep affection of his beloved women has been poured into this single strike. Heroes and heroines are often the most passionate; since ancient times, how many have escaped the power of love? Call him passionate or heartless, he only knows that his love for every woman he loves has been transformed into this endless, flowing sword intent.

Xiao Tianci is increasingly aware that in a duel between masters, victory or defeat can often be decided in a single move. Therefore, he unleashes the most ferocious attack of the Passionate Sword Technique. With three others watching intently, he doesn't have much time for prolonged combat. Masters like those from Knife Valley are generally arrogant; once defeated, they likely won't bother him again for the time being.

"You win!" Han Ran seems to have aged ten years in an instant.

"I must thank you for your concession, Senior." Xiao Tianci smiles slightly; things are indeed proceeding as he imagined.

"Jiuzhou didn't lie to me. Your martial arts are indeed superb. In that case, we have no choice but to attack together." Han Ran's words completely shattered Xiao Tianci's plans, leaving him stunned.

"The Blade Lord's grudge cannot go unavenged. Please don't take offense, Young Master Xiao." Han Ran's tone became much more polite, but Xiao Tianci felt like crying. He knew clearly that with four people attacking him, his chances of winning were extremely slim. Although he had already defeated two of them, these victories were completely different from those in a life-or-death struggle.

"I have a request. I wonder if the four of you can grant it?" Xiao Tianci asked after a long silence.

"As long as it's not excessive, I think we won't refuse your request. Because Young Master Xiao is a worthy opponent," Han Chen said.

"I think no matter what, please don't make things difficult for her," Xiao Tianci said, glancing at Yun Xinwu from afar.

"The grievance has its source, the debt its debtor; naturally, we won't involve others," Han Chen said calmly.

"Xinwu, you should go first," Xiao Tianci said softly. Yun Xinwu didn't speak, but shook her head at Xiao Tianci from afar.

"Women are such a hassle. When I wanted her to be with me, she insisted on leaving; now that I want her to leave, she insists on keeping me," Xiao Tianci muttered under his breath. He thought, "Let her stay. If I can't beat her, I can run away." It's just a bit troublesome to run away with someone. Thinking this, he felt much more at ease.

"Please, all four of you," Xiao Tianci said calmly.

"Young Master Xiao is the first opponent the four of us have faced together. Regardless of the outcome, we will respect you," Han Chen said in a deep voice.

"Such respect is better left unrequited," Xiao Tianci said with a wry smile. As he spoke, the four of them launched their attack simultaneously.

Xiao Tianci grew increasingly alarmed as the fight progressed. The four seemed to have formed a formidable formation, their combined power many times greater than that of a single individual. Xiao Tianci had no chance to retaliate; he was now barely holding on, relying on his exquisite Xuanji Steps. The four's attacks grew stronger with each wave, and Xiao Tianci felt increasingly strained.

Yun Xinwu felt her palms sweating. Having already reached the level of a first-rate expert, she could naturally sense the power of the four's combined attack and could see that Xiao Tianci was nearing his breaking point.

"Am I going to die here like this?" This thought suddenly crossed Xiao Tianci's mind.

"No, I can't die," Xiao Tianci thought to himself, weighing the situation. Continuing to dodge would inevitably lead to his death; it seemed hiding was no longer an option, so he might as well attack.

Han Jiuzhou's sword was already aimed at Xiao Tianci's shoulder. This time, Xiao Tianci didn't dodge. He unleashed the final move of the Free and Unfettered Sword Technique, "Free and Limitless," and lashed out at Han Jiuzhou. With two painful groans, Xiao Tianci had already been struck by four swords. However, at the crucial moment, he used the Xuanji Step to slightly shift his position, thus avoiding fatal wounds. Han Jiuzhou, however, was in a much worse state; blood gushed from his chest, and his face was deathly pale.

"Are you alright?" Yun Xinwu finally jumped over and asked with concern.

"I'm fine. I call this 'putting myself in a desperate situation to survive.' Now that they're down one person, I'm sure I can win," Xiao Tianci forced a smile.

“I’ll help you.” Yun Xinwu slowly drew her sword and leaned close to Xiao Tianci. Han Ran, his face ashen, examined Han Jiuzhou’s injuries, while Han Zhongyuan and Han Chen began a standoff with Xiao Tianci.

“Xinwu, don’t.” Xiao Tianci exclaimed in surprise, “Helping me is useless. You’ll only make me worry. Listen to me, just watch from the side.”

“You want me to watch you die? I can’t do that!” Tears welled in Yun Xinwu’s eyes.

“Who said you’d watch me die? Don’t worry, I definitely won’t die.” Xiao Tianci comforted her, but Yun Xinwu was stubborn and wouldn’t listen. Besides, Xiao Tianci didn’t look like he could win in his current state.

“Young Master Xiao is indeed no ordinary person. He’s willing to injure himself to hurt Jiuzhou.” Han Ran returned to the battle after a moment, now the three of them surrounding the two.

"I'm just trying to survive, nothing special," Xiao Tianci said calmly, though he was inwardly annoyed that Yun Xinwu refused to leave.

"Go!" A delicate shout came from Yun Xinwu. Now Xiao Tianci didn't need to worry, because she was already fighting Han Zhongyuan, so there was no need to worry about her leaving.

"Xinwu, be careful!" Xiao Tianci didn't know what else to say, and at the same time, he attacked Han Chen and Han Ran.

Although Xiao Tianci's injuries weren't severe, they still somewhat affected his mobility. Fighting two against one seemed no different from fighting four before, and he felt increasingly overwhelmed. Yun Xinwu's martial arts seemed to be higher than he had imagined, and she showed no signs of defeat yet.

Xiao Tianci gradually felt his strength waning, while Han Chen and Han Ran pressed forward relentlessly, seemingly intent on quickly defeating him.

With a soft groan, Xiao Tianci's heart tightened. He turned to see Yun Xinwu lying on the ground, her life hanging in the balance.

"No…" Xiao Tianci felt a jolt in his heart, letting out a groan. He felt a sharp pain in his hand; Han Chen had plunged his sword into his left arm, but this brought him back to his senses.

"No, I can't do this! I have to escape!" This thought suddenly flashed through Xiao Tianci's mind. He let out a furious snort, unleashing the "Endless Hatred" of his Passionate Sword Technique, which swept towards Han Chen and Han Ran. The powerful force forced them back several steps. Xiao Tianci let out another cold shout, and in a single stride, he was beside Yun Xinwu. Enduring the pain in his left hand, he picked her up and simultaneously thrust his sword at Han Zhongyuan. Taking advantage of Han Zhongyuan's movement to dodge, Xiao Tianci leaped three zhang to the side, finally escaping their encirclement. Without looking back, he ran wildly forward. (

Volume 3, Chapter 6, "The Stormy World of Love and Destiny," by Ximen

Wushuang) Xiao Tianci had only one thought left in his mind: to run. Only by escaping this place could he survive, and only then could he save Yun Xinwu.

He felt the wind whistling past his ears, but Xiao Tianci's pace slowed. He didn't know how long he had been running, nor where he was going. He only knew he was running straight ahead, his movements becoming an unconscious act. Finally, he collapsed to the ground, but he didn't lose consciousness. His inner strength sustained him; he knew he couldn't faint, he still needed to treat Yun Xinwu's injuries.

Xiao Tianci struggled to his feet, supporting Yun Xinwu against him. Looking around, he realized he seemed to have arrived at a small village, with a few dozen scattered thatched huts and people wielding hoes in the fields.

"Xinwu, Xinwu," Xiao Tianci softly called to Yun Xinwu. He didn't see any obvious injuries on her body, but she was still unconscious.

Xiao Tianci tried to circulate his inner energy, but found it scattered and unable to gather. He felt a pang of sadness; without inner energy, he couldn't heal himself, let alone heal others.

"Young man? Are you alright?" A middle-aged man approached, his face weathered and deeply lined.

"Uncle, please help me save her..." Xiao Tianci finally collapsed, pointing at Yun Xinwu and whispering. He fell backward to the ground, Yun Xinwu landing on his chest, still unconsciously holding her tightly.

************

After an unknown amount of time, Xiao Tianci awoke, the first thing he smelled being the fragrance of medicine.

"Xinwu." Xiao Tianci opened his eyes and found the room empty. He jumped up and headed outside. Just as he was about to leave, a woman entered, carrying a steaming bowl of medicine.

"Your injuries haven't healed yet. Drink this first." The woman was dressed in simple cloth, her face veiled in black gauze, but her figure was slender and alluring, and her voice was as sweet and gentle as a nightingale's.

"Thank you for saving my life, young lady. May I ask where the other young lady who was with me is? How is she?" Xiao Tianci didn't take the medicine but asked anxiously.

"Her injuries aren't serious. She'll come to see you soon. Drink the medicine first." The woman's tone was still gentle.

This time, Xiao Tianci obediently took the medicine and drank it down in one gulp.

"Ah!" Xiao Tianci almost vomited. It was so bitter!

"Don't waste the medicine. The herbs are very precious; I went to great lengths to gather them." A soft hand suddenly covered Xiao Tianci's mouth, and with a slight pull, Xiao Tianci's head tilted back, and the entire medicine was swallowed.

"Why is this medicine so bitter?" Tears welled up in Xiao Tianci's eyes, almost from the bitterness.

"Good medicine tastes bitter; it's an age-old truth. After drinking this bowl of medicine, you'll be almost completely recovered. A few days of rest will be enough." The woman said calmly.

"May I ask your name, young lady? My name is Xiao Tianci. Thank you for your great kindness." Xiao Tianci had almost forgotten to thank her because of the bitter medicine.

"I haven't used my name in a long time. You can call me Madam Ximen." A trace of melancholy flashed in the woman's eyes as she spoke slowly.

"Madam Ximen?" Xiao Tianci murmured, a strange feeling welling up inside him.

"Young man, are you alright? I know your wife is treating you, you'll get better." A middle-aged man rushed in from outside. Xiao Tianci remembered this was the man he had seen before he fainted.

"Thank you so much, Uncle Ximen. I will never forget your and your wife's kindness." Xiao Tianci bowed deeply.

"Uncle Ximen?" The middle-aged man was taken aback, then suddenly seemed to realize something, grinning broadly. "Young man Xiao, you've got it wrong. My surname isn't Ximen, it's Lu, and my name is Changsheng. Madam Ximen is a famous doctor in our village. We call her that because her surname is Ximen."

"I'm sorry, Miss Ximen," Xiao Tianci said awkwardly.

"It's alright, I don't mind. It was my own fault for not explaining clearly," Madam Ximen said calmly, then her eyes suddenly lit up. "Your sweetheart has come to see you."

"Young Master Xiao, are you alright?" Yun Xinwu burst in from outside, only to see the three people inside smiling at her. She felt a surge of shyness, her face flushing red. Standing before Xiao Tianci, she couldn't utter a word.

"Xinwu, it's good you're alright. I'm fine," Xiao Tianci said, his eyes filled with tenderness as he gently pulled her into his arms.

"No, there are still people here," Yun Xinwu said, her face still red, slightly struggling.

"It's alright, it's alright, Brother Xiao, Miss Yun, you two continue. I'll go back to work," Lu Changsheng said as he walked out. Yun Xinwu, blushing, buried herself in Xiao Tianci's arms, too ashamed to look up.

Madam Ximen quietly left the room, gently closing the door behind her, a slight sigh escaping her lips.

"Xinwu, now it's just the two of us," Xiao Tianci whispered in her ear. Yun Xinwu abruptly looked up, letting out a gasp, only to find Xiao Tianci staring intently at her.

"Why are you looking at me like that?" Yun Xinwu pouted, looking disgruntled.

"Xinwu, do you know how heartbroken I was when you told me not to look for you? How devastated I was to see you injured?" Xiao Tianci murmured, gently kissing her hair.

"You're so silly! Why would you stop looking for me just because I told you not to?" Yun Xinwu said coquettishly.

"Now you can't escape me," Xiao Tianci said, kissing her cherry lips, savoring them tenderly, greedily sucking them, his restless hands slipping inside her clothes. Yun Xinwu's body went limp, and she finally managed to push Xiao Tianci away.

"Don't do this, we're in someone else's house." Yun Xinwu's face was flushed, and her voice was barely audible.

"Can I go back home?" Xiao Tianci chuckled softly, still taking advantage of her, but ultimately refraining from further actions. After all, this was Madam Ximen's place, and they shouldn't do anything too outrageous.

"You lecherous scoundrel, not anywhere!" Yun Xinwu scolded, glaring at Xiao Tianci.

"No way, how am I supposed to live?" Xiao Tianci muttered.

"Hmph, you womanizer, you big pervert." Yun Xinwu gave Xiao Tianci a flirtatious wink.

"You won't let me touch you, but you're still trying to seduce me. Xinwu, you're really ruthless," Xiao Tianci murmured, finally kissing her fiercely again until he was satisfied and Yun Xinwu was almost out of breath, before finally releasing her. Yun Xinwu had no strength left to move, practically clinging to Xiao Tianci.

**********

This was a small, remote village with fewer than a hundred inhabitants. The scenery in the mountain village was beautiful, and the air was fresh. With Yun Xinwu by his side, Xiao Tianci lived a carefree life. Although he couldn't be too intimate due to Madam Ximen's presence, they were still inseparable, their love as sweet as honey.

Xiao Tianci's injuries healed quickly. Although the medicine Madam Ximen gave him was bitter, it was indeed very effective. And since he could gather his true energy again and began to heal himself through internal energy cultivation, his recovery was rapid, progressing by leaps and bounds. Yun Xinwu, who had suffered internal injuries from Han Zhongyuan's sword energy, recovered quickly as well, though not severely.

"If only I didn't have to go out," Yun Xinwu murmured, nestled in Xiao Tianci's arms.

"Xinwu, even if we go out, I won't let you leave," Xiao Tianci said, tightening his embrace around her.

Yun Xinwu didn't speak again, lost in thought. She was the most outstanding disciple of the Emei Sect, and a candidate for sect leader in everyone's eyes, but once one became sect leader, marriage was forbidden.

Xiao Tianci knew Yun Xinwu had some concerns, but he wasn't worried about that. Qiu Shuiyao and Yan Wuxin faced even greater difficulties than Yun Xinwu, and he could handle those, so he naturally wouldn't bother with Yun Xinwu and Emei's affairs. However, he was worried that the people of Daogu wouldn't let him off so easily; they would definitely come looking for him as soon as he left.

But what Xiao Tianci didn't expect was that even if he didn't go out, the people of Daogu would still come knocking.

The once peaceful village was disrupted by several uninvited guests. There were five people in total, all dressed in white, carrying peculiar long swords on their backs—three old and two young.

Xiao Tianci and Yun Xinwu were strolling along the ridge between the fields when the five people spotted him immediately and walked towards him.

"I'm starting to admire you all now. I can't believe you managed to catch me all the way here." Xiao Tianci, arm in arm with Yun Xinwu, faced five people from Blade Valley. Two of them were familiar faces—Han Chen and Han Ran—while the other three were new. Only now did Xiao Tianci realize that Qin Mengru's claim that Blade Valley had ten experts at Han Tianxia's level was indeed true. He had already met seven, and fought four of them, and he could sense that they were indeed comparable to Han Tianxia.

"Young Master Xiao is truly blessed," Han Chen said coldly.

"Not at all, it's all thanks to your good fortune, senior," Xiao Tianci replied indifferently.

"You are Xiao Tianci?" Among the five who spoke, the older man whom Xiao Tianci didn't recognize possessed a unique air of authority, almost like a ruler surveying his domain.

"I am indeed Han Xiang, the Heavenly Blade," Xiao Tianci said calmly.

"You've killed countless people, wounded countless provinces, and escaped the siege of the four great masters of this valley. I believe you weren't just lucky; you do possess some real skill. However, today is your day of reckoning. This beautiful place will become your burial ground," Han Xiang said coldly. He didn't deny it, which meant he was indeed Han Xiang.

"Many people have wanted me dead, but unfortunately, I'm still alive. I believe I can continue to live, and live well," Xiao Tianci said indifferently, seemingly unconvinced by Han Xiang's words.

"No need for empty words; let your strength speak for itself," Han Xiang said coldly.

"I initially thought Knife Valley was quite good, but now I find that everyone there is unreasonable and just wants to kill me. I don't need to be polite to you anymore. Are you coming one by one or all at once?" Xiao Tianci said coldly. He had finally gotten a few days of peace, but these people were like ghosts haunting him. In reality, he was completely innocent, so he couldn't help but feel angry.

Despite his anger, the situation was far from optimistic. Han Xiang, Han Chen, and Han Ran had formed a triangular formation, surrounding Xiao Tianci and Yun Xinwu in the center, while two other young men whose names Xiao Tianci didn't recognize stood slightly on the outer edge, seemingly to prevent Xiao Tianci from escaping again.

Xiao Tianci was racking his brains. With the help of the Xuanji Step, he shouldn't have been so easily defeated by the combined attack of the four masters from Dao Valley last time; at least self-preservation shouldn't have been a problem. But that wasn't the case. He always felt that they had formed a formation, but unfortunately, he hadn't remembered the formation knowledge Nangong Xiaoyu had mentioned to him, so he couldn't distinguish it now.

"Xiao Lang, let's join forces and focus on one of them to break their formation," Yun Xinwu transmitted her voice. "If I'm not mistaken, they should be forming a Three Talents Blade Formation, more than ten times stronger than a single person."

Xiao Tianci nodded. Now there was no other way; escape was almost impossible. He had to fight head-on. His internal energy spun rapidly, quickly reaching its peak. He unleashed the seven forms of the Free and Unfettered Sword Technique from beginning to end, first slashing at Han Ran, the weakest of the three.

Xinwu's sword danced erratically, moving with her own will, coordinating with Xiao Tianci's sword as it swept towards Han Ran. Xiao Tianci wielded his sword in one hand, while the other embraced Yun Xinwu's body. Using the Xuanji Step, he guided Yun Xinwu's movements, their minds in perfect harmony, creating a flawless, seamless swordplay.

Han Xiang and the other two activated their sword formation, their steps light, their swords already drawn. A sword descended from the sky, a Heaven-Splitting Strike slashing towards the sword net—Han Xiang, the Heavenly Blade. Han Chen, the Earthly Blade, brought his sword close to the ground, while Han Ran, the Human Blade, seemed to originate from the void. The three formed a perfect sword formation, combining offense and defense, which clashed with the sword net of Xiao Tianci and Yun Xinwu. Softness can overcome hardness, but extreme hardness can break through any softness. The sword and blade formation clashed, yet they were evenly matched. Though the net broke, the blades remained hidden. Han Xiang's face showed a hint of surprise, as if he couldn't quite believe it.

However, Han Xiang's surprise was brief. A second wave of attacks swept in, even stronger than before. Xiao Tianci and Yun Xinwu exchanged a glance. Suddenly, Xiao Tianci pulled Yun Xinwu into his arms, and simultaneously shouted, "Xiaoyao!" and "Xinwu!"

Xiaoyao Xinwu Swordplay—an unexpected strike. Xiao Tianci combined all seven sword techniques of the Xiaoyao Swordplay, while Yun Xinwu danced her sword within his arms, the angle of her attack completely unexpected.

The intense blade light vanished, and the countless sword shadows disappeared. The five stood silently facing each other.

"You won, but you also lost," Han Xiang suddenly said, his right hand quickly tapping twice on his left arm. Han Chen and Han Ran suddenly collapsed to the ground, one hand supporting themselves while the other clutched their chest, their faces pale and sweat pouring down their cheeks. Xiao Tianci and Yun Xinwu also collapsed to the ground, utterly exhausted. That sword strike had nearly drained all their strength. Although it severely injured the two of them, it failed to seriously wound Han Xiang. So, they had won, but they had also lost. Xiao and Yun were temporarily unable to fight, while Han Xiang of the Blade Valley was not seriously injured, and there were two other people watching him closely. If nothing unexpected happened, the final outcome was predictable.

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