Cold Fragrance Valley [Complete] - 15

Chapter Fifteen: Venturing Deeper into Danger

The piercing sunlight startled Lan Tianpeng awake. He groggily opened his eyes, jolted awake, and was startled. Beneath him lay his master's wife, Chen Tianli, while Ding Mengmei and Xiao Qionghua slept on either side. Lan Tianpeng carefully recalled the events of the previous night, a dreamlike experience. After a moment's thought, he understood the gist of it. Ding and Xiao had clearly been seriously injured while saving him, and his master's wife, Chen Tianli, had risked her life to save him—a kindness that moved him deeply. Just as

Lan Tianpeng was about to move, Chen Tianli beneath him also woke up, her face flushed with embarrassment, and whispered, "Peng'er, you're awake?" Their bodies were still intimately intertwined. Lan Tianpeng hadn't expected Chen Tianli to wake up at that moment and was momentarily at a loss for what to do.

Lan Tianpeng whispered, "Tianpeng deserves to die, he's defiled Master's wife."

Chen Tianli covered his mouth, preventing him from continuing. "Peng'er, Master's wife's life was already superfluous. Being able to save you has slightly lessened the guilt in my heart. You don't need to take it too seriously. As long as you treat Mei'er well in the future, I'll be very happy."

Lan Tianpeng said excitedly, "Don't worry, Master's wife, Tianpeng will definitely not mistreat Junior Sister."

Lan Tianpeng's thick, hot penis was still hard inside Chen Tianli's body. Seeing Chen Tianli's naked, tender white body, he immediately felt a strong desire, and his penis trembled restlessly inside her. Chen Tianli was still intimate with him, so she knew what was going on. Seeing the strange light in Lan Tianpeng's eyes, she was clearly aroused. She said shyly and softly, "Peng'er... if you... want... Master's wife... is willing... to give it to you..." Her voice grew softer and softer until it was almost inaudible, but to Lan Tianpeng, it was like a thunderclap.

While he was still struggling with his inner conflict, Chen Tianli had already demonstrated her sincerity through her actions. She gently kissed Lan Tianpeng, her soft, fragrant tongue slipping into his mouth. Lan Tianpeng finally succumbed to his male instincts, once again displaying his unparalleled virility. This situation was vastly different. Just now, Lan Tianpeng had been driven by aphrodisiacs, his mind clouded; Chen Tianli had focused her energy to calm herself, intending to save him. Therefore, although they had physical desire, they lacked spiritual connection. But now, both were clear-headed, and with their bodies intimately connected, the flames of passion naturally ignited. This perfectly matched the hexagram "Ze Shan Xian" from the I Ching: love sprouts and grows.

Lan Tianpeng lifted himself up, and the two temporarily separated. Chen Tianli lay on her back, shyly lowered. Below her was snow-white, tender skin, concealing a hidden acupoint; above her was a long spear raised high, a young and handsome man. Their lower bodies were now separated, and Chen Tianli felt an immense emptiness. She let out a soft "Ah," seemingly regretful and wistful at the withdrawal of her "treasure." Her cheeks flushed, her eyes filled with sorrowful anticipation as she gazed at Lan Tianpeng in a dazed and confused manner. Lan Tianpeng then activated the "Swift" technique, his "treasure" instantly increasing in size by half. He adhered to the warnings of the "Secrets of Controlling Women," remaining calm, composed, and patient, thus first quietly appreciating Chen Tianli's voluptuous naked body to ignite his latent life force.

Chen Tianli's skin was smooth, supple, and fair, possessing the supple elasticity unique to women who practice martial arts. Her breasts were large, tender, and incredibly elastic, standing high, with pink areolas and deep purple nipples, the contrasting colors harmonious and balanced. Her legs were long and shapely, proportionally balanced; the skin was delicate and soft to the touch. Between her legs, a delicate patch of pubic hair clung, and her red lips hinted at a hidden secret. Lan Tianpeng, moved by the sight, his desire ignited. He lifted Chen Tianli's thigh and slowly inserted his penis into her wet, slippery opening.

Chen Tianli felt its heat and size, far surpassing anything before, and a sudden fear gripped her. She hastily tried to push it away. But before she could exert any force against Lan Tianpeng's chest, his penis was already fully inside, reaching her cervix. A feeling of intense, pleasurable fullness immediately surged through her entire body. Her hands, which had initially tried to push him away, automatically turned into an embrace. She nestled tightly against Lan Tianpeng's chest, savoring the excruciating pleasure. The two embraced tightly, kissing and licking each other, both feeling lost in passion.

Lan Tianpeng exerted his inner strength, his glans immediately swelling and contracting, teasing her inside. Because the glans was directly at the cervix, and the contractions were large, sometimes resembling a pigeon egg, sometimes a duck egg, the contractions even penetrating the uterus, causing the uterus to contract as well. Chen Tianli felt an indescribable blissful pleasure, like the feeling of pregnant with a new life, awakening her primal maternal instincts. She felt that Lan Tianpeng in her arms was her dearest person. His

fully inserted, burning member pressed tightly against Chen Tianli's clitoris. His hands, holding her slender waist, pulled her glistening, mature body towards him, and Lan Tianpeng thrust forcefully. Under Lan Tianpeng's intense thrusting, Chen Tianli's body trembled and swayed, his large glans pressing against her clitoris like raindrops, her sweat-drenched body writhing wantonly. Lan Tianpeng cupped Chen Tianli's white buttocks with both hands, violently increasing the speed of his thrusts, pounding into her flesh. Chen Tianli arched her breasts and buttocks to meet each of Lan Tianpeng's wild thrusts, uttering frantic, dreamlike moans.

“Oh…so good…this…so big…”

“Peng’er…you’re…reaching…reaching the G-spot…ah…”

“Oh…so beautiful…so deep…”

“Ah…this feeling…so wonderful…it’s been so long…not like this…”

Chen Tianli ecstatically twisted her hips to meet him, her perfectly shaped breasts swaying with each thrust. Lan Tianpeng happily stretched out his hands, kneading her firm breasts with abandon. His constantly thrusting member intensely stimulated Chen Tianli’s sweet lips. Both of them were completely immersed in pleasure, unaware of the two other pairs of eyes watching them. Those were naturally Xiao Qionghua and Ding Mengmei, who had been awakened from their sleep and found Lan Tianpeng and Chen Tianli engaged in their passionate lovemaking. They couldn’t help but exchange a smile. Hearing Chen Tianli’s lewd moans, they blushed with shame, probably remembering their own performance in bed. Chen Tianli's body was held even tighter by Lan Tianpeng, his thick penis thrusting heavily against her wet, hot core, the violent movements of their bodies producing a series of "slap, slap, slap" sounds.

"Ah...oh...Peng'er...you...oh...it's so hard..."

"Ah...so good...it's so deep...so beautiful...so beautiful..." Chen Tianli's already sweaty, beautiful body twisted and turned in rhythm with Lan Tianpeng's thrusts. Her soft, delicate skin glowed with a pinkish hue, her disheveled hair, alluring face, and lewd screams echoed through the air.

"Ah...my little hole is so full...so comfortable...Master's wife is being fucked...ascending to heaven...oh...it's

hitting the G-spot...Peng'er...your treasure is so big...so long...ah...it's hitting it again..." "I...I'm so happy...so...comfortable...your big treasure is so hard..." Chen Tianli was driven to ecstasy by Lan Tianpeng, her slender legs tightly clamped around Lan Tianpeng's waist, her labia majora sucking at Lan Tianpeng's large glans like a small mouth. Completely numb from the penetration, Chen Tianli forgot she was Lan Tianpeng's master's wife, only twisting her hips in rhythm with Lan Tianpeng's thrusts.

“I…I’m almost there…I can’t take it anymore…Peng’er…Master’s wife…I’m almost…coming…”

“Ah…so good…oh…Peng’er…it’s so beautiful…”

“No…I can’t take it anymore…ah…I’m going to…come…ah…ah…I’m…coming…ah…”

Lan Tianpeng changed his “whirling” force, and his penis immediately began to twist and rotate inside her. Chen Tianli went crazy, her fair and plump body twisting and swaying incessantly, her mouth uttering rapid, delicate moans. She was so comfortable that she couldn’t bear it, and in her excitement, she bit Lan Tianpeng’s shoulder hard. After their passion subsided, Chen Tianli said with deep shame, "Peng'er, I'm so sorry, I was just too...you know, I bit you in the heat of the moment, do you...do you...do you hurt?"

Lan Tianpeng laughed, "It's just a little scratch, it's nothing, as long as you're comfortable."

Chen Tianli was mortified. She stammered, "Peng'er, are you comfortable? Why didn't you...you know?"

Lan Tianpeng knew what she meant, so he said, "Master's wife, I can't let you get too tired."

Chen Tianli was both happy and grateful. She asked earnestly, "You didn't...you know, are you sad? Do you want me to help you?" Lan Tianpeng

said, "Master's wife, don't push yourself too hard."

Chen Tianli stubbornly persisted, "Peng'er, have you been with many women? Is it because you think your master's wife is old and ugly that you don't want my help?"

Lan Tianpeng hurriedly replied, "That's not true. My master's wife is young and beautiful, beyond my wildest dreams. How could I be ungrateful? Besides... besides..." Seeing that he had been rambling on for a long time without getting to the bottom of it, Chen Tianli pressed him for an answer.

Lan Tianpeng never lied, but when she pressed him, he had no choice but to tell the truth. His face flushed red as he said, "I mean, besides, my master's wife's... inside, it's soft, tight, wet, and slippery. Mine... inside, it feels just as comfortable and tight..."

Upon hearing this, Chen Tianli was overjoyed. For a moment, she felt light and airy, as if she were sinking into a pile of cotton, soft and dizzy, feeling an indescribable joy and comfort. Overwhelmed with affection, she said, "Peng'er, you are my second man, and you will be my last. I am truly happy. But I can't just think of my own comfort and make you sad. Peng'er, let me pamper you too, okay?"

She gently kissed Lan Tianpeng, her hands lovingly caressing his body. Lan Tianpeng, aroused by her, couldn't help but rub his hands against her smooth body. Excitedly, he lifted the limp, mature woman's body from the bed, forcefully twisting his waist and grinding against Chen Tianli's vulva. While his fingers teased her clitoris, he repeatedly thrust his hard penis against her genitals! Chen Tianli, teased and aroused by Lan Tianpeng, was filled with lust and overflowing desire. The feeling of his large penis filling her vagina was so fulfilling that she couldn't help but let out ecstatic moans.

"Ah...so full...Peng'er...you..."

"So beautiful...it feels so good...ah...it's hitting the spot again..." Seeing that Chen Tianli was aroused again, Lan Tianpeng didn't hold back and began to thrust wildly.

"Oh...oh...it's so beautiful...ah...Peng'er...you're killing your master's wife..."

"So...comfortable...so pleasurable...my big baby...so hard...ah..." Lan Tianpeng thrust passionately, his hands caressing his master's wife's snow-white and crystal-clear skin. Her soft silk shirt was lifted to the sides, revealing her tender and rosy breasts. As Lan Tianpeng continued to thrust, Chen Tianli's master's wife shook her head violently, her long, black, and shiny hair swaying wildly.

“Peng’er…Master’s wife has never…never…felt this good…”

“Ah…it’s coming again…so…full…so beautiful…”

“Ah…Peng’er…faster…Master’s wife is coming again…”

“Ah…” Lan Tianpeng thrust over a hundred more times, suddenly feeling a tingling sensation in his tailbone, all the pleasure concentrating on his manhood. He convulsed repeatedly, his hot semen gushing out, all of it entering the depths of Chen Tianli’s tender orifice. Chen Tianli trembled uncontrollably, so comfortable that she lost track of time, whether she was in heaven or on earth. The two embraced quietly, enjoying the afterglow of their climax.

Suddenly, two soft giggles rang out. Lan Tianpeng and Chen Tianli abruptly remembered that there were two other people beside them. Chen Tianli blushed deeply, pulled the blanket over her face, and said, "How embarrassing! I forgot about the two girls."

Ding Mengmei giggled and said, "Mother, don't be shy. Anyone would feel the same way if they met Brother Peng. I'm even worse off than you."

Xiao Qionghua also chimed in at the right moment, "Master's wife, we are very grateful to you for risking your life to save Brother Peng yesterday. We also welcome you to live with us."

Chen Tianli peeked out and sighed, "I'm getting old, how... " "How can I compare to you? Besides, Mei'er is my daughter. What would it look like if I were with you? If this gets out, Peng'er and I won't be able to live in this world anymore."

Xiao Qionghua said, "As long as we keep this a secret, how could anyone else know?"

Chen Tianli shook her head and said, "There are no secrets that stay hidden forever. What if..."

Ding Mengmei suddenly interrupted, "Mother, why don't you live with us and let Brother Peng visit you regularly? What do you think?"

Lan Tianpeng also said, "Master's wife, I also hope to bring you joy often. Please agree."

Chen Tianli pondered. After a long pause, he sighed and said, "Anyway, my body is already yours. You can have it anytime you want, and I'll be willing. But the fewer people who know about this, the better. Otherwise, Peng'er's life will be ruined, and my sins will be immense."

Xiao Qionghua and Ding Mengmei nodded and said, "We understand. We won't tell anyone."

Chen Tianli nodded, looking at Lan Tianpeng, her face flushing again: "Peng'er, do you want them to keep you company a little longer?"

Before Lan Tianpeng could make any response, Xiao Qionghua and Ding Mengmei said in unison, "Please spare us, we..." "I haven't recovered yet. My whole body aches and my back aches, I feel terrible."

Lan Tianpeng said apologetically, "It's all my fault. You all need to rest today, and I'll help you circulate your energy again."

Ding Mengmei smiled sweetly, "Brother Peng, how can you blame me? It's all that villain's fault."

Lan Tianpeng said, "We've avenged our master and retrieved the treasure scroll, so this trip wasn't in vain."

Xiao Qionghua nodded and said, "Well, shall we rest here for a day and then head to Kongtong?"

Lan Tianpeng nodded, and the four of them got up to pack, started a fire to cook, and after eating, they gathered together to talk about their recent activities. Chen Tianli and her daughter Ding Mengmei didn't know about Lan Tianpeng's recent situation. When Lan Tianpeng came in and recounted what had happened, Chen Tianli and her daughter finally understood what was going on at Kongtong. Chen Tianli said, "Mei'er and I would only be a burden if we went. I want to go to the rooftop. If you two are careful, you will surely be able to rescue Miss Lan. Mei'er, are you willing?"

Ding Mengmei nodded and said, "Yes, Mother is right. Brother Peng, you and Sister Qiong must be careful."

Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua had no objections. Lan Tianpeng said, "You must be careful too."

The day passed quickly. Ding Mengmei and Xiao Qionghua had recovered well. They slept peacefully through the night. Although the four of them slept in each other's arms, Lan Tianpeng considered that the three women had not fully recovered, so he did not touch them. But he still slept sweetly with one on each side.

The next morning, the four of them split into two groups. Chen Tianli and her daughter Ding Mengmei went to the rooftop, and naturally, the first half of the "Vajra Subduing Demon Treasure Record" was also taken by the mother and daughter. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua went to Kongtong. After seeing Chen Tianli and Ding Mengmei off, Xiao Qionghua suddenly remembered a question and said seriously, "Brother Peng, what if you accidentally use Sister Lan's sword style when you fight with 'Master Yuxu' in the future? Wouldn't 'Master Yuxu' be furious and kill Sister Lan?"

Lan Tianpeng quickly explained, "But I have already changed my approach after figuring out 'Master Yuxu's' three life-saving moves." Xiao Qionghua shook her head and said, "

It's not impossible to deduce the three life-saving moves of 'Jade Void' based on Sister Lan's sword style, but according to common sense, those three moves will definitely not be the same as the seven moves mentioned above. Rather than seeking variations within the seven moves, it would be better to extract the essence of 'Guang Chengzi's' seven moves, 'Shennü's' twelve moves, and 'Jiangmo Swordplay's' eight moves, and develop a complete swordplay. I think there is no swordsman in the world whose swordsmanship surpasses the essence of these three swordplays, nor is there any swordsman whose swordsmanship exceeds these three swordplays."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng's spirits lifted, and he immediately said excitedly, "Let me demonstrate a set of 'Jiangmo Swordplay' first." He then prepared to withdraw his sword with a horizontal elbow strike.

Xiao Qionghua said, "Let me demonstrate Shennü's swordplay first, and you can watch carefully."

Lan Tianpeng nodded, and Xiao Qionghua demonstrated the twelve sword moves of Changbai Shennü that had shaken the martial arts world. Lan Tianpeng silently memorized the sword techniques while secretly observing their variations. To help Lan Tianpeng grasp the profound essence of the techniques, Xiao Qionghua demonstrated them in slow motion, explaining the eye movements and techniques involved. Lan Tianpeng, exceptionally intelligent, had already memorized the twelve forms of the "Divine Nun's" swordplay by the time Xiao Qionghua finished her second demonstration. Afterward, he repeatedly practiced the "Demon-Subduing Swordplay" and the first seven forms of the "Guangchengzi" swordplay, which Lan Xiangji had secretly taught him, until Xiao Qionghua fully comprehended them.

After practicing the three sets of profound sword techniques together, the two closed their eyes again to regulate their breathing, deeply studying the variations and chain applications of the three sword techniques to maximize their power. Lan Tianpeng, a martial arts prodigy, had already transformed the twenty-seven sword moves of the three techniques into thirty-three exquisite sword moves in less than an hour. These thirty-three exquisite sword moves could be chained together and repeatedly executed. Most astonishingly, they were further condensed into eleven incredibly profound sword techniques. He hadn't yet named these eleven moves; he wanted to wait for Xiao Qionghua to propose her new sword technique, and after their joint research and refinement, they would then name it.

Seeing that Xiao Qionghua was still deep in thought, Lan Tianpeng picked up a small wooden stick in the empty stone room and began practicing the thirty-three exquisite sword moves in sequence. After practicing the thirty-three sword moves, Lan Tianpeng was about to practice the eleven condensed, profound moves when he noticed Xiao Qionghua already sitting cross-legged on the ground, watching with open eyes. He smiled happily and asked, "Sister Qiong, how do you think of my thirty-three moves? But I haven't practiced the eleven most powerful and profound moves yet."

Xiao Qionghua looked somewhat excited, but she smiled gently and said, "Perform them for me."

Lan Tianpeng immediately agreed excitedly and began his demonstration with graceful, flowing movements. His movements were wondrous, like a dragon or tiger, a phoenix or a phoenix, a startled swan, an eagle, and a monkey. He stood solemnly in place after completing the eleven moves. At the same time, she asked with a smile, "Sister Qiong, do you think it's powerful?"

Xiao Qionghua immediately praised, "These eleven sword moves of yours are indeed the essence of these three sword techniques. However, only four of them are suitable for me to perform."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng's handsome face flushed, and he quickly nodded, saying, "I really didn't think of that."

Xiao Qionghua smiled happily and said, "Now look at the twenty-one sword moves that I have meticulously studied, and the nine most powerful moves that have been condensed." After saying this, she stood up, took the wooden strip from Lan Tianpeng's hand, and as soon as Lan Tianpeng stood to one side, she also demonstrated it in slow, graceful movements. After finishing, she stopped and smiled, saying, "Of my nine most powerful moves, four are suitable for you, and five of them were developed based on my sword and movement techniques. You see..." As she spoke, she demonstrated the nine sword moves in sequence.

Lan Tianpeng was very pleased after watching. So, the two combined their sword techniques, developing the most powerful 22-form swordplay, combining the strength and flexibility of their own styles. Eleven strength forms were suitable for men, eleven flexibility forms for women, and eleven flexibility forms that men could still use. After discussion, they decided to name the 22-form swordplay "The Twin Swordsmen's Swordplay."

After painstaking research, they fused the three Buddhist swordplay styles into the 22-form swordplay, and suddenly found that their swordsmanship had taken a giant leap forward. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua felt that they had matured considerably, and that they could easily handle even the top martial arts masters of the time. However, Lan Tianpeng still worriedly asked, "But how do the three life-saving moves of the old Taoist 'Jade Void' compare to our 22-form swordplay?"

Xiao Qionghua immediately replied confidently, "Don't worry, his three life-saving moves are no match for the essence of the 22-form swordplay." "

Sister Qiong," Lan Tianpeng said, "let's practice some more along the way."

Xiao Qionghua nodded and said softly, "Let's go." With that, she and Lan Tianpeng used their lightness skills to gallop down the mountain.

The sun was already setting, and it would be dark in a little over an hour, so Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua used their lightness skills to their fullest extent. When they arrived at the woodcutter's place where they had left their horses, it was already dark. Most hunters in the mountains lived alone and rested at sunset, but the old woodcutter and his two sons hadn't slept, waiting for Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua thanked them, retrieved their horses, and gave the old woodcutter two taels of silver before mounting their horses and slowly descending the rugged mountain path. They

reached the bottom around midnight and decided... They headed to Songtao County that very night. At the crack of dawn, they arrived in Songtao County just as the city gates were opening. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua followed the vendors and others into the city. The city's morning market hadn't started yet; apart from inns and breakfast stalls that were already open, most other shops were still closed. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua first chose a clean and quiet inn and reserved a secluded courtyard for their stay.

After breakfast and a short rest, Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua went out together. Upon reaching the inn's entrance, they approached a shopkeeper soliciting business and politely asked, "Excuse me, do you have any members of the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society' in your city?" Upon hearing the name "Dragon and Phoenix Society, "

the shopkeeper, before Lan Tianpeng could finish speaking, immediately beamed and said respectfully, "They have a branch in this city, right at the central intersection..."

Xiao Qionghua, upon hearing this, suddenly remembered the instructions Huangfu Hui and Ouyang Zi had given her before their parting, and thus, before the shopkeeper could finish, she couldn't help but ask with concern, "How are the people from the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society' getting along with you here?"

Seeing the question, the shopkeeper immediately gave a thumbs-up and praised, "Excellent! Since the men from the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society' arrived in this city, the local thugs, bullies, and gentry have either fled or been killed. Those with improper behavior have voluntarily concealed themselves, and even the tyrants dare not bully the common people anymore."

Lan Tianpeng exclaimed "Oh!" and asked with concern, "I wonder which branch leader is in charge here?" The

shopkeeper replied excitedly, "The branch leader is our famous 'Golden Whip' Second Master Li Shaosheng. Our Second Master Li is not only highly skilled in martial arts, but also kind to people. Since he took over the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society,' he has truly brought a lot of benefits to our Songtao area. Everyone has to give him a thumbs up."

Upon hearing about heroes from various places, Xiao Qionghua couldn't help but think of Kongtong, and asked with puzzlement, "I wonder if the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society' here has ever had any disputes with the old Taoist priests of the various Taoist temples here?"

The shopkeeper was about to speak when a powerful Buddhist chant suddenly rang out from not far away: "Amitabha Buddha." Lan

Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua's hearts skipped a beat, and they looked in the direction of the sound. Their brows furrowed involuntarily! Several feet away, under the eaves, stood an old Taoist priest, his hair tied in a simple knot, wearing a hemp robe, holding a whisk, carrying a long sword with gray silk tassels on his back, and a travel bag slung across his shoulder. It was clear at a glance that he was not a Taoist from the Central Plains. The Taoist

priest in the hemp robe, in particular, was about forty years old, with finely shaped eyebrows, narrow eyes, and a long, flowing beard. His graceful walk further accentuated his otherworldly air. Upon seeing the Taoist priest approaching, the innkeeper hurriedly whispered to Lan Tianpeng, "Sir, you must be careful. The old Taoists here are not to be trifled with." "Saying this, he quickly left. Just as the shopkeeper hurried away, the old Taoist in coarse clothes had already arrived.

The old Taoist in coarse clothes first put his palms together with Lan Tianpeng's, bowed and chanted a Buddhist chant, saying, "May I ask your honorable name, young benefactor, and where you are from? Are you a disciple of the great swordsman 'Silver-Clad Swordsman'?"

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng knew that the person he was looking for had arrived, so he quickly cupped his hands and smiled, saying, "My name is Lan Tianpeng, and I have lived in Lengxiang Valley of Motian Ridge beyond the Great Wall for generations..."

As soon as he uttered the words "Lengxiang Valley," the old Taoist in coarse clothes

bowed again and said, "So you are Young Master Lan. This humble Taoist, 'Qingyun,' has been disrespectful." Lan Tianpeng returned the bow and said humbly, "I dare not say that. 'Silver-Clad Swordsman' is my senior master. May I ask why you ask?"

Upon hearing this, Taoist Qingyun asked in confusion, "Young Master Lan wears a silver robe and carries a 'Rainbow Sword,' so why do you call him 'Silver-Clad Swordsman' your senior master?" Lan Tianpeng, too lazy to explain further, could only smile and say, "

Because my master has not accepted any male disciples, I am the one who inherited his robes and sword."

Daoist Qingyun's expression changed upon hearing this, and he deliberately scrutinized Lan Tianpeng, saying, "You must have fully inherited the swordsmanship of the 'Silver-Clad Swordsman' and consider yourself far superior to the present master's saber technique?"

Lan Tianpeng smiled calmly and said, "The saber has its strengths, and the sword has its advantages. The distinction between high and low depends entirely on the user's skill. I wear this sword because I am acting on the orders of my sect."

Upon hearing this, Daoist Qingyun suddenly asked seriously, "Young Master wears the robes and sword of the 'Silver-Clad Swordsman,' and is the successor of the 'Silver-Clad Swordsman,' then what about the promise he failed to keep in the past…?"

Before he could finish speaking, Lan Tianpeng smiled faintly and said, "You must be a disciple of Master Xuanqing of the Kunlun Sect?"

Upon hearing the mention of Xuanqing, Master Qingyun stood up and bowed, saying, "Immortal Xuanqing is my master."

Lan Tianpeng smiled calmly and said, "Please go back and tell Immortal Xuanqing that I will definitely go to Kunlun within a year to fulfill my master's promise."

Master Qingyun was taken aback and asked in surprise, "Did your master give any instructions?"

Lan Tianpeng smiled calmly and instead of answering, asked, "What brings you to the Central Plains, Master?"

Master Qingyun was taken aback again and could only say somewhat awkwardly, "Indeed, I am here on the orders of my master to secretly investigate whether your master, the 'Silver-Clad Swordsman,' is still alive." Lan

Tianpeng's heart stirred, and he asked with concern, "What if he is no longer alive?" "

Master Qingyun said, 'My master intends to pass the leadership of the sect to my senior brother, Qingfeng, and the matter of fulfilling the sword duel agreement will be dropped.'

Lan Tianpeng replied solemnly, 'To be honest, my senior master has already entered seclusion for cultivation and no longer concerns himself with worldly affairs. Regarding the unfulfilled agreement from years ago, besides your master, Immortal Xuanqing, there is also the 'Heroine Bingchuan' in the Western Regions…'

Before he could finish speaking, Master Qingyun smiled proudly and said, 'So, your senior master has already specified that the young master must attend the appointment. I have no choice but to return to Kunlun immediately to report to my master and await the young master's arrival.' With that, without allowing Lan Tianpeng to speak, he clasped his hands together, gave a slight bow, and strode away.

Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua ignored him after he left. Lan Tianpeng turned back and asked the innkeeper, 'Is there a branch of the Beggars' Sect here?'" The shopkeeper said, "

The leader of the Beggars' Sect here is named Chen Xishan. He's an upright man, but he's also stubborn... "

Lan Tianpeng then asked the shopkeeper, "Where is Master Chen now?"

Upon hearing this, the shopkeeper immediately replied excitedly, "Master Chen was just at the shop entrance inquiring about the background of you and the young lady..." Xiao Qionghua hurriedly interjected, "Did you tell him?" The shopkeeper immediately said seriously, "How could I dare? Besides, I really don't know the background of you and the young lady." Lan Tianpeng nodded approvingly and asked, "Can you find him quickly now?" The shopkeeper immediately nodded repeatedly and said, "Yes, yes, he just went to the Jade Mountain Restaurant across the street." Lan Tianpeng immediately instructed, "Then go and invite him here. Just tell him to look for him in the Cold Fragrance Valley of Motian Ridge." Upon hearing this , the shopkeeper immediately nodded repeatedly with astonishment and hurriedly retreated. Clearly, he was shocked that Lan Tianpeng was a powerful and influential figure. For even the leaders of the local Beggars' Sect had to come to see him, this was undoubtedly a very powerful person. As soon as the shopkeeper left the courtyard, Xiao Qionghua asked, puzzled, "Cousin, are you trying to find out about 'Heroic Beggar' Uncle Ma Wu from Chen Xishan?" Lan Tianpeng nodded. Xiao Qionghua asked, "Do you think the news Sister Ouyang told you last time about Uncle Ma Wu going to Ganxi is reliable?" Lan Tianpeng hesitated slightly and said, "I think it should be true, otherwise why wouldn't there be any news of Uncle Ma Wu's whereabouts along the way? " "The words had barely left his lips when a cough came from outside the courtyard. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua immediately recognized it as Chen Xishan from the Beggars' Sect. Just as they looked towards the sound, a middle-aged man dressed in crane-feather robes, with a full beard, hurriedly entered the courtyard, looking somewhat flustered. This middle-aged man, beggar Hua Yu, was disheveled, dark-skinned, with thick eyebrows and large eyes. He was extremely burly, walking with a powerful, imposing gait, somewhat resembling Zhang Fei from the Later Han Dynasty. As they sized him up, the imposing middle-aged beggar entered the small hall. Xiao Qionghua and Lan Tianpeng both rose from their chairs, smiling to greet him. Upon seeing Lan Tianpeng, the imposing middle-aged beggar quickly stepped forward, clasped his hands in a bow, and respectfully said, 'Chen Xishan, a third-generation disciple of the Beggars' Sect, greets the Young Valley Master.' Lan Tianpeng cupped his hands in a smile and said, 'Master Chen, please excuse the formalities. Please greet my cousin, Xiao Qionghua, first. '" "Saying this, Su pointed to Xiao Qionghua. Chen Xishan then clasped his hands and bowed deeply to Xiao Qionghua, saying respectfully, "Chen Xishan greets Miss Xiao." Xiao Qionghua returned the greeting and gestured for him to sit. After Chen Xishan sat down, he immediately clasped his hands and bowed, saying, "I have been ordered by Fifth Master to keep an eye on the young master's movements..." Before he could finish speaking, Lan Tianpeng excitedly asked, "When did you see my Uncle Ma Wu?" Chen Xishan thought for a moment and said, "It was almost New Year's..." Lan Tianpeng impatiently asked again, "What did he say?" Chen Xishan said, "Fifth Master instructed me that if I met the young master, I should tell him that he heard that the two traitors of the Bian clan fled to the northwest to seek refuge with 'Grandma Five Poisons' after suffering a loss by losing their hands in Lengxiang Valley." Upon hearing the name "Five Poison Granny, " Lan Tianpeng frowned and looked at Xiao Qionghua, asking as if to himself, "Five Poison Granny?" Xiao Qionghua was also puzzled and said, "How come I've never heard of this 'Five Poison Granny' or her background?" Chen Xishan explained, "According to the Fifth Master, the 'Five Poison Granny' was originally a poison-making witch from Hainan Island. Later, she was driven out after fighting with the 'Qiongjiang Fisherman' for territory. At some point, she built a large manor on the banks of a dangerous river near the Lao Jun Temple in Ganxi, which she used to take in wicked and desperate criminals. As long as they had money to offer, they would have no worries about food and clothing, live on the land under her protection, and learn how to make the Five Poison Pills herself." " Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng exclaimed in surprise, 'Oh!' and continued with concern, 'What else did Uncle Ma say?' Chen Xishan replied, 'He specifically instructed us to be extra careful with everything we eat and drink once we arrive at the Lao Jun Temple.' Eager for revenge, Xiao Qionghua asked with concern, 'How will we contact him when we go?' Chen Xishan said, 'When the young master goes, disciples from our gang will contact you. However, the young master's attire has changed; I saw it from across the street just now.'" "Hey, and then asked the waiter." He paused, then continued with a smile, "According to the waiter, the young master is a big shot in the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society,' and he doesn't know your name, so I'll leave now..." Lan Tianpeng smiled calmly and said, "I'm not a big shot in the Dragon and Phoenix Society. It's just that when I went to Gaojialou with Uncle Ma before the New Year, I met their female leader..." Chen Xishan's expression changed drastically upon hearing this, and he said in surprise, "Isn't it said that 'Golden Thread Shadowless' wears a specially made golden cloak all year round and never shows her true face? How could the young master have met her?" Lan Tianpeng smiled and said, "That's just an exaggeration. Sometimes she often appears in front of people with her true face, but people don't know that she is the female leader of the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society.'" Upon hearing this, Chen Xishan unconsciously glanced at Xiao Qionghua with awe. Lan Tianpeng, seeing this, laughed heartily, saying, "Don't worry, Master Chen, my cousin is definitely not that elusive female leader." Chen Xishan's face immediately turned red, and Xiao Qionghua smiled faintly. Seeing this , Lan Tianpeng quickly steered the conversation back on track, saying, "Because Uncle Ma Wu, 'Golden Thread Shadowless's' father, and my master have a shared lineage, she only revealed her identity afterward; they're all family." Upon hearing this, Chen Xishan immediately said, "Young Master, are you saying that Fifth Master and 'Golden Thread Shadowless's' original father were family friends?" Lan Tianpeng, not wanting to elaborate, immediately replied, "At least friends with a shared history." Upon hearing this , Chen Xishan nodded. Seeing that there was nothing else to discuss, he stood up from his chair, bid farewell to Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua, and left. As soon as Chen Xishan was outside the courtyard, Xiao Qionghua eagerly said, "Cousin, since the two traitors of the Bian clan have already fled to the Laozi Temple in Ganxi, it won't be a detour for us to go to Kongtong. I think we should go to Kongtong first."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng asked with some worry, "I wonder how Sister Lan is?"

Xiao Qionghua replied anxiously, "I'm afraid the situation is quite bad now."

Lan Tianpeng was taken aback and asked in confusion, "What do you mean?"

Xiao Qionghua said worriedly, "The fact that she secretly taught you the sword technique has probably already reached the ears of 'Yu Xu'."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately dismissed it, saying, "No way, without witnesses, 'Yu Xu' will never believe it."

Xiao Qionghua immediately asked seriously, "Isn't Hu Hu the best witness?"

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng said helplessly, "Oh dear, wasn't Hu Hu secretly released by 'Song Feng'?"

Xiao Qionghua immediately shook her head and said, "I used to believe that, but after hearing the conversation between 'Liao Jing' and 'Song Feng' at Lao Long Tan, my opinion has completely changed." Upon hearing this

, Lan Tianpeng seemed to understand something and hurriedly said, "You mean that 'Liaojing' pretended to secretly release Hu Hu to avoid confronting Lanxiangji on the spot, but actually sent Hu Hu to Kongtong as soon as possible to give 'Yuxu' the concept of 'the first to act first'..."

Before he could finish speaking, Xiao Qionghua interrupted, "That's only one reason. The most important reason is to cooperate with 'Liaochen' and others' plot to kill Lanxiangji first, thus removing a major obstacle for them."

Lan Tianpeng felt this made sense and anxiously asked, "So, if 'Yuxu' hates me more than he loves Lanxiangji, he will kill Sister Lan in anger?"

Xiao Qionghua immediately nodded calmly and said, "That's right." Lan

Tianpeng anxiously asked, "So, Sister Lan is already dead?"

Xiao Qionghua immediately comforted him, "I think she might still be on her way and hasn't arrived yet." "Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng didn't reply, but got up and hurriedly walked out of the hall.

Seeing this, Xiao Qionghua asked urgently, "Hey, cousin, where are you going?"

Lan Tianpeng stopped and turned around, saying, "I'm going to find the local 'Dragon and Phoenix Gang' branch leader and ask him to use a carrier pigeon to notify the branch in the direction of Kongtong, instructing them to intercept Lan Xiangji and Yan Qi immediately."

Before he finished speaking, Xiao Qionghua said, "Perfect, add another charge of 'treason' to her list."

Lan Tianpeng was taken aback and asked in a deep voice, "What is it?" Xiao Qionghua immediately explained solemnly, “

Once we enter Shaanxi, we are already within the sphere of influence of the Kongtong Sect’s headquarters. Although there are members of the ‘Dragon and Phoenix Society’ active there, they are under constant surveillance. Even if we go to warn her, whether Sister Lan listens or not is another matter, but at least we will all be seen by the Kongtong Sect’s spies…”

Lan Tianpeng immediately said dismissively, “What does it matter? Even if they see us, Sister Lan has already changed course.”

Xiao Qionghua said, “Sister Lan is no ordinary person. Everyone in the Kongtong Sect headquarters knows that after she made contact with the ‘Dragon and Phoenix Society,’ she suddenly changed her course and didn’t return to Kongtong. Do you think there will be consequences?”

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng couldn’t help but get angry and said loudly, “So, we’re just going to let her go to her death?”

Xiao Qionghua said broadly, “Of course not. We can set off immediately to chase after her.”

Lan Tianpeng snorted and said, “By the time we arrive, Sister Lan’s body will probably be cold.” Upon hearing this

, Xiao Qionghua comforted Lan Tianpeng, saying, "How could it be so quick? Sister Lan was personally nurtured by 'Yu Xu,' requiring over ten years of his effort. How could he kill her in a fit of anger without getting to the bottom of things?"

Lan Tianpeng, somewhat embarrassed, smiled and said, "You sounded so hasty just now, it was really frightening."

Before he could finish, Xiao Qionghua smiled slightly, "It's not that I said it was hasty, but Sister Lan is too important to you."

Lan Tianpeng was startled, realizing his actions had indeed been too eager. His handsome face flushed, and he said apologetically, "Saving someone is like putting out a fire, as the saying goes."

Before he could finish, Xiao Qionghua smiled and said, "There's no need to rush. Sister Lan has a mouth too; she can explain to 'Yu Xu.'" Pointing outside the hall, she continued, "It won't be a matter of a meal. We can eat first and then leave." Lan

Tianpeng looked back and saw that two shop assistants, each carrying a large basket, had brought lunch. After a quick meal, they immediately told the shop assistants to prepare their horses. They then planned their route and left the shop. They ate and slept, traveling day and night, until noon when they had ridden out of the major city on the Sichuan border – the Baxia Pass. Along the way, they secretly inquired but found no trace of Lan Xiangji and Yan Qi.

Once they entered Shaanxi, the branches of the "Dragon and Phoenix Society" were much fewer. Although they weren't doing anything illegal, their mannerisms were still somewhat arrogant. Since it was past noon, to catch their lodging, they headed straight for Liangzheng along the official road. Around noon, a towering, majestic building began to appear, its gray silhouette visible.

Lan Tianpeng immediately pointed and said, "Cousin, that might be Nanzheng County?"

Lan Tianpeng sighed and said, "Let's settle down early tonight. It'll give 'Xiao Qing' and your 'Bloodfire Dragon' a rest, and tell the innkeepers to give them a good wash and air out the saddle pads." Before he finished speaking, two fast horses galloped up behind them like thunder.

Since Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua were on a long journey, not a short race, they were riding at full speed. Just as they were about to turn around to look, a young man in a bright pink satin shirt with a long sword on his back, riding a tall white horse, passed by Xiao Qionghua's horse. Meanwhile, a middle-aged man with a red face, wearing a yellow shirt and a steel whip on his back, riding a large dappled horse, brushed past Lan Tianpeng. As soon as they passed Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua's horses, they immediately turned around. Upon seeing Xiao Qionghua, they immediately looked up and let out a... A burst of wild laughter erupted.

Lan Tianpeng, upon seeing this, was instantly enraged. His gaze swept across the crowd, also revealing the pink-clad youth with his slicked-back hair and wicked expression, while the middle-aged man in yellow with a ruddy complexion also exuded a menacing aura. It was clear at a glance that neither were good people. Just as he was about to shout angrily, the laughing man whipped his horses again, and the two swift horses, with long, angry neighs, galloped towards Nanzheng City like lightning. Lan Tianpeng couldn't tolerate their arrogance and spurred his horse to give chase. Xiao Qionghua, seeing this, calmly stopped him, saying, "Why chase them? Be careful not to exhaust the horses. They won't rest until they see their maker today." Upon hearing this, Lan

Tianpeng had no choice but to give up, but the anger in his heart remained unabated. Especially since the two horses galloping wildly ahead had kicked up a thick cloud of dust that lingered for a long time, fueling his rage. Just then, another fast horse seemed to gallop towards them through the dust. Because the dust hadn't settled, he couldn't make out who was riding it, but he vaguely saw an old man crouching on the saddle, his eyes gleaming. Lan Tianpeng, still angry, didn't pay much attention. But when the horse was close enough, he suddenly felt a strong sense of familiarity with it, and instinctively exclaimed in surprise, "Eh!"

At the same moment Lan Tianpeng exclaimed, the old man on the horse turned his head to steal a glance at him. Upon seeing the old man on horseback, Lan Tianpeng's expression changed drastically, and he exclaimed in surprise, "Ah!" The old man on horseback immediately cried out in alarm, "Young Master!"

Just as the old man on horseback cried out "Young Master," Lan Tianpeng had already recognized the old man hunched over the saddle as Yan Qi, the "Rope Whip," who had followed Lan Xiangji. "Rope Whip" Yan Qi had changed into a homespun shirt and trousers and had also disguised himself; if Lan Tianpeng hadn't noticed his horse, it would have been difficult to recognize him.

Lan Tianpeng hurriedly reined in his horse and turned his head, calling out urgently, "Aren't you Yan Shijian?"

However, Yan Qi, who had also hurriedly reined in his horse, glanced around warily and, finding no one suspicious, hurriedly whispered, "Young Valley Master, come with me quickly." As he spoke, he spurred his horse and galloped ahead along a country road.

Xiao Qionghua, who had seen Yan Qi, nicknamed "Rope Whip," at the Xianju Inn before, exclaimed in surprise before "Little Green" had even come to a complete stop, "Isn't that Yan Qi with Sister Lan?"

Lan Tianpeng, holding tightly to his "Bloodfire Dragon" and waiting for Xiao Qionghua, didn't answer but instead said anxiously, "You might be right. Let's hurry and catch up!" With that, he spurred his horse forward, galloping towards Yan Qi.

Xiao Qionghua urged her horse to follow beside her, asking urgently, "Are you saying that Lan Xiangji has been suspected by 'Jade Void'?" Lan Tianpeng simply nodded, saying nothing.

Yan Qi, galloping ahead, lay prone in his saddle, constantly looking back, his expression anxious, seemingly annoyed that Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qi were too slow, or perhaps afraid someone was chasing them. Both Lan Tianpeng's "Bloodfire Dragon" and Xiao Qionghua's "Little Green" were exceptional horses, and they caught up with Yan Qi in less than a mile. Upon seeing this, Yan Qi immediately spurred his horse and charged off the country road, heading straight for a grove of trees to the northeast. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua knew Yan Qi had urgent news to tell them and was trying to avoid being seen, which was why they had chosen such a secluded spot in the grove. After a swift gallop, Yan Qi was the first to enter the grove. Immediately afterward, Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua also rode in. As soon as they entered the grove, they saw Yan Qi, who had leaped off his horse

, rushing towards them in a panic. Before Lan Tianpeng could even regain his footing, Yan Qi urgently said, "Young Master Lan, you can't go to 'Jade Void' anymore!"

Lan Tianpeng, seeing this, hurried forward, asking in shock, "Uncle Yan, what happened?"

Yan Qi glanced at Xiao Qionghua, somewhat suspiciously asking, "And this young lady is…?"

Knowing Yan Qi's hesitation, Lan Tianpeng immediately said firmly, "Uncle Yan, please speak freely. This is my cousin, Xiao Qionghua." "Speaking of which, he briefly introduced to Xiao Qionghua, "This is Uncle Yan, who used to frequent Lengxiang Valley."

Due to the urgent atmosphere and tense mood, the two only nodded to each other. Yan Qi, the "Suozi Bian," only called out "Miss Xiao" before continuing, "This whole thing is ruined by Liao Jing and Liao Chen. Miss Lan has been imprisoned in the water dungeon in the back mountain by Yu Xu."

Upon hearing this, Xiao Qionghua was both shocked and angry, saying, "How could they be so cruel as to imprison their own cousin in the water dungeon?" Yan Qi

stamped his foot and said sadly, "If my young lady hadn't strongly defended her, she would have been executed on the spot."

Xiao Qionghua became even angrier, saying, "Such a thing happened? The old Taoist Yu Xu is far too simple-minded."

Lan Tianpeng was already so angry that his eyes flashed with cold lightning and his eyebrows were filled with murderous intent, but he said calmly, "Uncle Yan, please tell me in detail." Yan

Qi nodded in agreement, glanced around, and saw several smooth rocks. He immediately gestured respectfully and said, "Let's sit down and talk slowly." So, the three of them each picked a rock and sat down.

Yan Qi sighed, still somewhat nervous, and said, "I accompanied Miss away from Xianju City. We didn't dare delay along the way, heading straight for the Junqie headquarters. The journey was the same as usual, nothing seemed amiss. But as soon as we entered the Kongtong headquarters, I was startled to find something wrong. Usually, when my Miss went to see Master Yuxu, she could come out freely, but this time she was made to wait outside the courtyard gate for news. When I saw something was wrong, I immediately signaled to my Miss, and to prevent any accidents, I slipped into Liaoyin's room to wait for news..."

Lan Tianpeng, upon hearing this, asked in confusion, "I heard Liaoyin was in seclusion?"

Yan Qi explained, "His seclusion ended a few days ago."

Xiao Qionghua immediately asked, "So, his martial arts have improved even further?"

Yan Qi shook his head and said, "I don't know." Having said that, she immediately steered the conversation back to the main point, continuing, "Because Liaoyin is an upright man and treats my young lady well, we have no choice but to ask him for help. Moreover, Yuxu likes him the most, and his words carry weight with Yuxu. I think he must know the reason why he's preventing my young lady from entering." At that time, I slipped into Liaoyin's room, but there was no one there. It wasn't until the lamps were lit that Liaoyin walked into the room with a solemn expression.

Upon seeing me, Liaoyin immediately asked anxiously, "Senior Yan, why haven't you escaped yet?" I was indeed startled, but I calmly asked, "How is Miss Lan?" Liaoyin said sadly, "Master has imprisoned her in the water dungeon in the back mountain!" I was shocked and immediately complained, "Why didn't you plead for her?" Liaoyin said regretfully, "If I hadn't knelt on the ground and begged, Master would have killed Miss Lan on the spot." I was stunned and couldn't help but ask with concern, "What mistake did my young lady make?" Seeing my question, Liaoyin asked in a serious tone, "Senior Yan, do you really not know, or are you asking knowingly?" I shook my head vigorously and said solemnly, "I absolutely don't know!" Liaoyin snorted coldly and said, "She secretly passed on the profound sword technique that Master taught her to Lan Tianpeng!" I was stunned when I heard this! Seeing my shocked expression, Liaoyin also believed that I really didn't know. I tried my best to defend my young lady, saying, "Liaoyin, you should believe me, I, Yan Qi, would bet my head on this..." Before I could finish, Liaoyin coldly said, "What's the use of telling me? You'd better go tell Senior Brother!" I was stunned, knowing I was in trouble. "Liaochen" and "Liaojing" were jealous of my young lady's acquisition of Pang Yuxu's profound swordsmanship, and they saw her as a thorn in their side...

Before I could finish, Xiao Qionghua coldly smiled and said, "Liaochen and Liaojing want to get rid of your young lady, probably not just for learning swordsmanship."

Yan Qi was startled and blurted out, "Miss Xiao means..."

Lan Tianpeng, fearing Xiao Qionghua would reveal this crucial secret, immediately changed the subject, asking, "Is Liaojing also at the Kongtong headquarters?"

Yan Qi shook his head, saying, "I don't know if Liaojing is there, and I haven't asked."

Xiao Qionghua speculated, "Perhaps not so soon?"

Upon hearing this, Yan Qi immediately asked, puzzled, "What? Did you two encounter 'Liao Jing' on your journey?" Lan

Tianpeng explained, "On our way here, we went to 'Songyun' at the Xuanzhen Temple in Laotan to inquire about 'Black Hand Sanlang's' whereabouts, and 'Liao Jing' happened to be there as well." "Liao Jing

" Yan Qi immediately said, "Before I could talk to anyone else, I encountered my young lady being blocked at the gate. In order to find a way to escape, I went to 'Yellow Crane Tower' to wait for the young master."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately asked, puzzled, "Strange, this was agreed upon when we parted last time. This time, when we left Xianju, there was no date set for a meeting at 'Yellow Crane Tower'?" Yan Qi quickly explained, "

Yes, my young lady also realized the seriousness of the situation. She immediately hinted to me that if anything happened to her, I should rush down the mountain to find the young master..."

Before he could finish, Xiao Qionghua, perhaps with a hint of jealousy, asked, "If you don't meet the young master Lan on the way, does that mean Senior Yan should wait at the Yellow Crane Tower?"

Yan Qi, a worldly-wise man, was secretly startled by Xiao Qionghua's tone. He suddenly realized that Xiao Qionghua and Lan Tianpeng were cousins who had grown up together, and their relationship was undoubtedly very close. Because of this discovery, he naturally had to be careful with his words. Otherwise, a careless move could easily cause jealousy and hatred among the three of them, jeopardizing the important matter of rescuing Lan Xiangji. Therefore, he quickly explained, "This is the place my young lady invited the young master to Kongtong a few days ago to jointly dissuade 'Yuxu' from its ambition to dominate the Central Plains and lead the martial arts world..."

Xiao Qionghua immediately smiled and explained, "Brother Peng has already told me about this." "Having said that, he glanced affectionately at Lan Tianpeng, whose expression seemed somewhat uneasy.

Lan Tianpeng could only force a smile, looking at Yan Qi with concern, and asked, "Now, how should we rescue Sister Lan?"

Yan Qi hesitated slightly before saying, "My young lady wanted me to stop the young master from going, but I felt we should rescue her as soon as possible. You know, even if she doesn't die in the water, her body will rot."

Upon hearing the phrase "rotting body," Lan Tianpeng flew into a rage. His sword flashed, his eyes blazing with fury, and he hissed through gritted teeth, "That old Taoist Yuxu used such cruel methods against his cousin; he's worse than a viper! If Sister Lan's body is intact, fine, but if even a hair on her head is harmed, I will not forgive him!" As he finished speaking, his handsome face turned grim, filled with murderous intent, and his eyes bulged to a point. Yan Qi, seeing this, was immediately terrified.

Xiao Qionghua, fearing her beloved cousin would damage his inner energy, disregarded her jealousy and rushed to support him. At the same time, she said with deep concern, "Cousin, there are many kinds of water dungeons. Some water dungeons don't necessarily involve being submerged in water."

Yan Qi composed himself and hurriedly nodded, "Yes, yes..." Before he could finish, the sound of galloping horses suddenly came from the country road outside the forest. Lan Tianpeng and the other two turned to look and saw the young man and the strong man who had just laughed wildly as they rode past galloping down the country road, also heading towards the forest.

Upon seeing the slick-haired, sword-wielding youth and the burly, red-faced man with a steel whip tucked into his back, Yan Qi, nicknamed "Rope Whip," was immediately alarmed. He blurted out, "Young Master, this is bad! These two are from the Nanzheng branch of the Kongtong Sect. The one with the sword is Liao Fan's lay disciple, known as 'Flower Butterfly.' The other is 'Red-Faced Whip,' his assistant..."

Before he could finish, Xiao Qionghua coldly smiled and said, "They've come here to their deaths..."

Yan Qi, upon hearing this, hurriedly retorted, "They must have become suspicious of my disguise and chased after me."

Lan Tianpeng smiled faintly and said, "Uncle Yan, these two have already met us."

Yan Qi exclaimed in surprise, "What? How could you...?" Before he could finish speaking, two fast horses galloped fearlessly into the forest.

Upon seeing Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua, the slick-haired young man nicknamed "Flower Butterfly" immediately laughed and said, "Haha, so you're here after all."

Another burly man in yellow with a whip on his back, nicknamed "Red-faced Whip," said arrogantly, "What, another old fellow has appeared?" As he spoke, the two of them simultaneously dismounted.

Yan Qi was furious when he heard "Red-faced Whip" call him an old fellow. He took two steps forward and shouted angrily, "You two blind bastards, open your eyes wide! I am your Master Yan Qi! Enough nonsense, show me your weapons!" As he spoke, he reached for his waist, and with a clang of metal, his whip was drawn.

Upon seeing this, "Flower Butterfly" burst into arrogant laughter, saying with disdain, "You're really choosing the path to hell when there's a way to heaven. Old man Yan Qi, don't you know? Our patriarch has personally issued a decree to arrest you everywhere."

Before she could finish, Yan Qi glared and shouted angrily, "Nonsense! Master Yuxu is your patriarch, what does that have to do with me, Yan Qi? I, Yan Qi, am neither a member of your Kongtong Sect nor a nominal disciple. I don't steal people's money, nor do I covet their young ladies... and..."

Before she could finish, "Flower Butterfly" raised her eyebrows and said angrily, "You old dog, how dare you insult me indirectly? Let me tell you, others may fear your 'Rope Whip' Yan Qi, but this leader doesn't take you seriously."

Yan Qi smiled angrily and said, "That's for the best, kid. Quickly draw your weapons, let's cut to the chase." "

Another ruddy-faced man, 'Red-faced Whip,' suddenly interjected, 'Branch Leader, hold on! Save your energy for that girl. I'll take care of this old man.'

Yan Qi snorted coldly and said, 'Fine, you're courting death. Open your eyes wide! They don't even care about your patriarch, do you think they'd take you three-legged bastards and lackeys seriously?'"

Upon hearing this, "Red-Faced Whip" flew into a rage, pointing at Yan Qi and shouting, "You old dog surnamed Yan, how dare you call me a lackey and dare to boast like that?"

Yan Qi smiled coldly and said, "You two shouldn't just stand there making empty threats. Knowing you have no chance of winning against two against three, you're just bluffing. Now, I, Yan Qi, will introduce you to a very famous figure in the martial arts world..." As he spoke, he pointed at the handsome but menacing Lan Tianpeng and continued, "This is the young master Lan, who injured 'Songyun' with his palm, played with 'Liaochen' in a playful fight, and didn't even put your ancestor 'Yuxu' in his eyes." Before he finished speaking, the two "Flower Butterfly" trembled, their expressions changing drastically at the same time.

"Flower Butterfly" forced herself to remain calm and said, "I received a message from the main altar that Young Master Lan is not wearing this outfit..."

Yan Qi glared at her and suddenly raised her voice, "Let me tell you, Young Master Lan is not only a top disciple of Master Ding, the 'Flying Cloud's Last Words,' but also the heir to the legendary swordsman 'Silver-Clad Great Swordsman,' whose swordsmanship was once invincible." Upon hearing this, "Flower Butterfly's" expression changed several times, her eyes flashing with alarm, and she remained speechless for a long time.

"Red-faced Whip" clasped his hands in a fist salute and said, "Since you are Young Master Lan, we have received orders to report to the main altar. We two will take our leave now." He then turned to the startled "Flower-in-the-Pale Butterfly" and said in a deep voice, "Let's go." Just as

the two turned to leave, Xiao Qionghua, who had been observing them coldly, suddenly said in a deep voice, "Wait." "

Flower-in-the-Pale Butterfly" and "Red-faced Whip" turned and stopped simultaneously, asking in a deep voice, "Is there anything else, Miss?"

Xiao Qionghua smiled coldly and said indifferently, "Any villains who encounter me, even if they don't leave their heads, will at least leave a mark."

Upon hearing this, "Flower-in-the-Pale Butterfly" deliberately said angrily, "I am a renowned leader of a certain region..."

Before he could finish, Xiao Qionghua raised an eyebrow and said angrily, "What leader? Just based on your nickname, your ears should be chopped off!"

Upon hearing this, "Flower-in-the-Pale Butterfly" immediately retorted, "My nickname is 'Jade-faced Nezha,' what's so unrefined about that?"

Before she could finish speaking, Yan Qi immediately retorted, "That's a nickname you gave yourself, who acknowledges it?" Xiao

Qionghua, however, impatiently said from the side, "Whatever your nickname is, I have no time to care. Just for your frivolous and wicked laughter on the official road, your ears should be chopped off." She paused, then suddenly raised an eyebrow, her face revealing a murderous aura, and shouted, "Are you two going to make a move or not?"

Upon hearing this, "Flower Butterfly" suddenly hardened her heart, withdrew her long sword from her back with a clang, and said angrily, "You lowly servant, open your eyes! Young Master is not someone to be bullied at will. If you have the guts, then make your move." As she spoke, she stood with her sword held horizontally, her face full of anger, but her eyes flashed with alarm.

Xiao Qionghua sneered, "Just now I only wanted to cut off your ears, now you'll cut off your tongue..."

Before she could finish, "Flower Butterfly" suddenly let out a shrill cry: "Young Master will fight you to the death!"

With a shrill cry, she lunged forward, her long sword flashing with the move "First Bloom of Winter Plum Blossoms," creating several silver flowers as she thrust it towards Xiao Qionghua, who hadn't yet withdrawn her sword. Xiao Qionghua sneered, "If you have to do it yourself, you'll lose your life." As she spoke, her delicate body spun mysteriously, a flash of green light followed by a burst of red light! Immediately afterward, a scream rang out, her figure spun swiftly, and "Flower Butterfly's" head flew off, a spray of blood splattering more than ten feet high with a "plop"—in a flash of green, Xiao Qionghua had already retreated two feet away, the green light fading as her sword was already sheathed.

Yan Qi, watching from the side, was shocked and stunned! Only then did he realize that this Miss Xiao was far more formidable and dangerous than Lan Tianpeng. It seemed that Lan Xiangji's love for Lan Tianpeng was likely to end in vain. Looking over, "Red-Faced Whip" was already pale as a sheet, cold sweat dripping down his face; he was completely terrified.

Upon seeing this, Xiao Qionghua immediately said in a deep voice, "Aren't you going to cut off your ear and run away?"

"Red-Faced Whip" quickly regained his composure, kneeling on the ground with a thud, kowtowing repeatedly and pleading, "Miss Xiao, please spare my life! I deserve to die! I was blind and didn't recognize your greatness! Please spare me!"

Xiao Qionghua didn't know "Red-Faced Whip's" usual character and didn't want to push him too far. Therefore, she looked at "Rope Whip" Yan Qi and asked, "Senior Yan, what kind of behavior does this person usually exhibit?"

Yan Qi snorted coldly and said, "What good things can be associated with 'Flower Butterfly'?"

Upon hearing this, "Red-faced Whip" was so frightened that he kowtowed repeatedly to Yan Qi, pleading, "Master Yan Qi, please have mercy and save my dog's life!"

Yan Qi coldly smiled and said, "Just now you were calling me an old dog, and now you're calling me Master Qi."

"Red-faced Whip" quickly scolded himself, saying, "Master Qi, that was nonsense, I deserve to be slapped." As he spoke, he actually bent down and slapped his own mouth repeatedly with both hands.

Lan Tianpeng, impatient with wasting time, immediately said, "Uncle Yan, give him a chance to reform."

"Rope Whip" Yan Qi, seeing Lan Tianpeng pleading for him in front of "Red-Faced Whip," felt both proud and flattered. He seized the opportunity and said in a deep voice, "Why don't you thank Young Master Lan for saving your life?"

"Red-Faced Whip," knowing his life was spared, quickly kowtowed to Lan Tianpeng again, saying, "Thank you for saving my life, Young Master Lan."

Lan Tianpeng immediately said in a deep voice, "No need for such small thanks. As long as you know how to repent in the future, that's enough."

"Red-Faced Whip" kowtowed again, saying, "If I ever do evil again, I will surely be torn to pieces by swords."

Yan Qi immediately interjected, "If you want to repay Young Master Lan's life-saving grace, it's not difficult. Just keep what happened today a secret for a day or two..."

Upon hearing this, "Red-faced Whip" hurriedly replied, "Yes, Seventh Master, whatever you command, I will do." Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua, unsure of Yan Qi's intentions, both looked at him with confusion.

Yan Qi nodded deeply and said, "First, you will be tied up in this forest for two days." Upon hearing this, "Red-faced Whip" immediately panicked and said, "Seventh Master, won't I starve to death?"

Yan Qi immediately shook his head and said, "No, I, the old man, will be watching over you." Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua knew that Yan Qi must have other plans, so they didn't say anything. Helpless, "Red-faced Whip" could only nod.

Yan Qi continued, "Second, you cannot report that 'Flower Butterfly' was killed by Miss Xiao." Upon hearing this, Xiao Qionghua was about to say something when Lan Tianpeng gestured for her to wait. "Red-faced Whip" hesitated before asking, "How should I report this to my superiors?"

Yan Qi replied without hesitation, "It's simple. I'll tell you later." "Red-faced Whip" could only nod repeatedly, agreeing each time.

Yan Qi's expression gradually turned solemn as he said, "Thirdly, I have important matters to discuss with Young Master Xiao..."

"Red-faced Whip" was intrigued and quickly said, "Then I'll hide outside the woods and wait for you and Young Master Xiao to finish discussing things before I come back in to await your orders." Upon hearing this,

Yan Qi immediately glared and said in a deep voice, "Why bother with all that? I've activated your 'Black Resting Point.' You can stay here and sleep for a while. I'll bring you back after we've finished discussing things." Upon hearing this, "

Red-Faced Whip" was immediately terrified, his face changing drastically. He stammered nervously, "Seventh Master, you, you, you can't abandon me! ... What if the wolf comes..."

Yan Qi immediately glared at him and said in a deep voice, "Nonsense! I just killed you with one sword, isn't that enough? Why waste so much breath on you?" "Red-Faced Whip" realized his point and could only nervously agree twice.

Yan Qi walked forward, saying in a deep voice, "Stand up."

"Red-Faced Whip" had no choice but to stand up tremblingly. To prevent "Red-Faced Whip" from changing his mind, Yan Qi took advantage of the moment the other man straightened up, leaped forward, and struck his "Black Resting Acupoint." The worldly-wise Yan Qi wasn't stupid; he knew that a person still had consciousness for a moment after being struck. To gain "Red-Faced Whip's" cooperation, he had no choice but to reach out and embrace him. Yan Qi carefully placed the "Red-Faced Whip" on a pile of fallen leaves and immediately returned, saying, "Now that we've revealed ourselves, if we don't control the 'Red-Faced Whip,' it will be difficult to rescue my young lady."

Lan Tianpeng immediately asked, puzzled, "Uncle Yan, what do you mean?"

Yan Qi replied without hesitation, "I hope the Young Valley Master and Miss Xiao can rescue my young lady as soon as possible."

Xiao Qionghua quickly answered, "Of course, we will do our best with the horses..." Before she could finish, Yan Qi interrupted, "We're now within the territory of the Kongtong Sect's headquarters. If they recognize the Young Valley Master and Miss Xiao, they will definitely receive us at every turn and escort us at every step, which will waste a lot of time."

Lan Tianpeng immediately asked with concern, "Uncle Yan, do you mean for us to speed across the mountains?"

Xiao Qionghua, however, asked in confusion, "What's the shortest route?"

Yan Qi was overjoyed to see that Xiao Qionghua was willing to rush over, and immediately said excitedly, "This old man will naturally draw a map of the back route for the two of you, as well as the way to the main altar of Kongtong and the people to contact along the way." Upon

hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately interjected with concern, "It would be best to draw the location of the water prison as well."

Yan Qi replied without hesitation, "Of course." So, he picked up a withered leaf from the ground, brushed aside the fallen leaves with his foot, and began to draw and explain with the withered branch. Because Yan Qi drew clearly and explained carefully, not neglecting even a small detail, it took a full hour to draw a map of the ground. By this time, it was already late, and the Jingri was about to disappear into the plains. Yan Qi then took out dry food and wine from his saddlebag, and the three of them ate and discussed the details.

After memorizing everything, Xiao Qionghua asked with concern, "If we rescue Lan Meimei and send her to Wang Qiaohu's house, will he accept her?" Yan Qi immediately said seriously, "

Of course he will accept it, and I will go there as soon as possible."

Lan Tianpeng pointed to the "Red-faced Whip" on the ground and asked, "Uncle Yan, what should we do with this person?"

Xiao Qionghua also asked with concern, "Senior Yan, how do you plan to deal with him?"

Yan Qi smiled and said, "Miss Xiao, please forgive me for keeping this a secret for now. I will tell you both when we arrive at Wang Qiaohu's house." Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua had no choice but to stop asking. So, the two glanced at the darkening sky and stood up simultaneously, saying, "Saving lives is urgent, we'll take our leave now."

Yan Qi hurriedly rose, his expression solemn, and said, "Young Valley Master and Miss Xiao, although your martial arts and swordsmanship are both at the pinnacle of skill, you should still be cautious in entering the Kongtong headquarters." He then pointed to "Bloodfire Dragon" and "Little Green," continuing, "Rest assured, I will take good care of these two steeds."

Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua smiled modestly and said, "Horses are not important; we only hope that Uncle Yan will arrive on time." They bowed and strode towards the edge of the forest.

Yan Qi hurried to see them off, smiling as he said, "I wish you both a safe journey; please forgive me for not seeing you off any further." Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua also said "Farewell," and used their lightness skill to head northwest.

By this time, it was already dark, and the fields were deserted. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua, possessing extraordinary skill, moved with incredible speed, their figures barely perceptible to anyone but a master with exceptional eyesight. The Shaanxi region is dotted with rivers, but these posed no obstacle to Xiao Qionghua and Lan Tianpeng's unparalleled lightness skills; they could easily cross them with just a few driftwood logs or pieces of bark.

As they sped forward, they secretly checked their route. According to the map drawn by Yan Qi, known as "Rope Whip," they needed to enter a mountainous area on the Shaanxi border before dawn. Yan Qi explained that most disciples of the Kongtong Sect were pleasure-seeking, and therefore, their branch headquarters were all located in cities and large towns; small towns were no longer patrolled, let alone the mountains.

As Lan Tianpeng sped along, he said worriedly, "Old Daoist Wang Xu is so cruel! He actually had the heart to lock his own cousin in a water dungeon. It's truly unbelievable!"

Xiao Qionghua knew that Lan Tianpeng was concerned about Lan Xiangji's safety, so she said gently, "Didn't you hear Senior Yan say that there are many kinds of water dungeons? How do you know if it's just about being submerged in water? Besides, whether she's actually locked up in a water dungeon is still a question."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng asked in surprise, "What? Cousin, don't you trust Uncle Yan?"

Xiao Qionghua immediately explained, "Of course he's telling the truth. Who can guarantee it's not a trap set by 'Yuxu' to lure us there?"

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately defended Yan Qi, saying, "Uncle Yan would never do such a thing."

Xiao Qionghua immediately chimed in, "I'm afraid he himself is being kept in the dark."

Lan Tianpeng thought for a moment and said, "Uncle Yan has been in the world for a long time, he's experienced and knowledgeable, and he's extremely shrewd. I do

n't think 'Liaoyin' can fool him." Xiao Qionghua said, "That would be best, but it's always good to be cautious." Lan Tianpeng found this reasonable and immediately agreed.

The two raced for a while, then found a spacious place to sit and rest for a moment. At the same time, they kept a safe distance from the countryside to avoid disturbing the barking dogs and alerting the reclusive master. Their journey followed the route drawn by Yan Qi perfectly. Upon reaching Jiaxing Town on the border of Shaanxi, it was still before dawn. The two stopped outside the town to discuss whether to knock on the door of the inn designated by Yan Qi ("Suozibian") or wait until daylight. After discussion, they decided to knock before dawn to avoid attracting too much attention and spreading the news, which could jeopardize their plan to rescue Lan Xiangji.

Jiaxing Town was a large town nestled at the foot of the mountains, but its population was only a few hundred households, with only one main street running east to west. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua entered the street and saw a red lacquered gourd painted on the signboard of the Yongxinglong Inn, which faced south. So, the two went to the inn, and Lan Tianpeng pulled the door handle twice. After a bell rang inside, a few moments later someone coughed twice. Then, unhurried footsteps approached the shop.

Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua exchanged a glance, indicating their arrival. The bolt clicked, and the heavy door was opened a crack. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua saw that the person who opened the door was a sleepy-eyed shop assistant. Seeing that Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua were well-dressed and carrying weapons, the shop assistant quickly smiled broadly and pushed the door open more than two feet. At the same time, he bowed and smiled, repeatedly saying with utmost respect, "Sir, Miss, please come in, please come in."

Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua nodded and smiled, and entered. The shop was very quiet, with only an oil lamp lit in the accounting room. The innkeeper hurriedly closed the shop door, turned to Lan Dapeng and Xiao Qionghua, and respectfully said, "Sir, Miss, please follow me."

Lan Tianpeng immediately waved a "wait a moment" gesture, and at the same time, asked humbly, "Is your master, Mr. Yin, here?"

The innkeeper was startled and unconsciously lowered his voice to ask, "Sir and Miss are...?"

Lan Tianpeng hurriedly followed Yan Qi's instructions and said with a smile, "We are from Huarong."

Upon hearing this, the innkeeper immediately nodded with a look of realization, and still lowered his voice to say, "So you two are from the Lan family. Please wait a moment, I'll go and fetch my Fifth Master." With that, he turned and walked towards the accounting office. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua knew that the "Lan family" the innkeeper mentioned referred to Lan Xiangji's home, and therefore concluded that the innkeeper, Mr. Yin, must be someone with connections to the Lan family.

Just then, the innkeeper went into the accounting room, and at the same time, a deep, resonant voice asked, "Who is it?"

The innkeeper replied in a low voice, "Fifth Master, it's a young master and a young lady. They said they're from Huarong..." Before he could finish speaking, the deep voice urgently ordered, "Quickly, please come to the elegant courtyard in the back shop for tea . I'll be right there."

The innkeeper responded with a "Yes," and then came out of the accounting room, bowing respectfully and saying, "Please, Master and lady." He then led the way to the back shop.

Since it was still dark, all the guests were still asleep, and the sound of snoring could be heard from every room. After passing several rows of long buildings and a few courtyards, they arrived at a small gatehouse with pink walls. The innkeeper hurried up the steps of the gatehouse, grasped the door knocker, and pulled it three times forcefully. As soon as Lan Tianpeng and the shop assistant stepped down the stairs, he immediately asked with concern, "Is this the residence of Master Yin?"

The shop assistant replied with a smile and humbly, "It was a few years ago. But since my fifth mistress passed away, my fifth master has used the inner courtyard as a place to receive distinguished guests and close friends." As soon as he finished speaking, faint footsteps came from inside the gate, clearly belonging to a woman.

Sure enough, a middle-aged woman's voice rang out from inside the gate, asking, "Who is it?"

The shop assistant immediately replied with a smile, "It's me, Sister Huang." As soon as the word "Sister Huang" was uttered, the courtyard gate opened with a "creak."

Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua looked and saw that Sister Huang, who opened the gate, was a middle-aged woman who was still charming and elegant, dressed in bright colors. Sister Huang was wearing a blue satin blouse with lace trim, her hair was slightly disheveled, her eyes were sleepy, and two buttons on her blouse were undone, revealing a hint of bright red undergarment. Upon seeing Aunt Huang, the shopkeeper immediately gestured respectfully towards Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua, saying, "Aunt Huang, these two are the young master and young lady from the Hua Rong Lan family." Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua immediately nodded and smiled politely.

Upon hearing that they were from the "Hua Rong Lan family," Aunt Huang quickly composed herself, her face beaming with smiles. She opened the door while hurriedly fixing her hair and fastening her buttons. At the same time, she repeatedly said to Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua with a smile, "Young master, young lady, please come in."

Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua nodded in greeting and walked confidently up the steps into the house. Seeing this, the shopkeeper bowed to the couple and also turned to walk forward. As soon as Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua entered the courtyard, Huang Sao immediately led the way, respectfully asking, "How is Madam?"

Lan Tianpeng knew he was referring to Lan Xiangji's parents, the chivalrous Lady Ji, and could only humbly reply, "Thanks to you, I'm well."

This was merely a polite remark, but to Huang Sao, it sounded like a futile exclamation: "Amitabha! Forgive me, sir! You've tormented me to death!"

Lan Tianpeng, recognizing Huang Sao as a maidservant in Lan Xiangji's household, said nothing more, maintaining the elegant atmosphere typical of the inn's private courtyard. At this moment, two other maids, hearing the commotion, rose and lit the gauze lanterns in the small hall. Entering the living room, Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua sat on the two chairs at the head of the table, and the maids immediately served tea. Dawn was breaking, and the courtyard was faintly visible. From the shops outside, the calls of early travelers to their innkeepers could be heard. A flurry of footsteps followed, and a figure flashed past the wall, followed by a robust, spirited, white-haired old man in a grey robe.

Huang Sao, standing to the side, immediately greeted him respectfully, "My Fifth Master has arrived." Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua jumped up from their chairs.

Yin Wu hurriedly quickened his pace, saying urgently, "Young hero and young lady, please sit down. This old man is late." He then strode up the steps into the hall, repeatedly bowing and saying warmly, "Please sit down, please sit down."

Lan Tianpeng didn't sit, immediately introducing himself with a cupped hand, "My name is Lan Tianpeng..." He had barely begun when Yin Wu's expression changed, and he gave Lan Tianpeng a meaningful look. Lan Tianpeng immediately realized what was happening and stopped speaking.

Yin Wu immediately looked at Huang Sao and the two maids and instructed Cheng, "Young Master and Miss haven't had breakfast yet. Huang Sao, take them to prepare it." Huang Sao respectfully agreed and withdrew with the two maids. As soon as Huang Sao and the other two left the hall, Yin Wu looked at Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua and said in a low voice again, "Young Master Lan and this young lady, please have a seat."

Lan Tianpeng took the opportunity to point to Xiao Qionghua and introduced her, "This is my cousin, Xiao Qionghua." Yin Wu then called Xiao Qionghua "Miss Xiao." Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua returned to their seats, while Yin Wu sat down on a side chair.

After Yin Wu sat down, he first asked with concern, "Did the young master meet Brother Yan Qi?"

Lan Tianpeng nodded and said, "Yes, I came here on Uncle Yan's instructions."

Upon hearing this, Yin Wu nodded repeatedly and said, "Good, good! I was worried he wouldn't be able to meet the young master. I didn't expect it to be so soon!"

Xiao Qionghua immediately interjected, "When Senior Yan left, he told me to find my brother Peng."

Yin Wu nodded without hesitation and said, "Yes, looking at the martial arts world today, only Young Master Lan can save my young lady."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng concluded that Yin Wu must have been a servant of the Lan family before. However, Xiao Qionghua continued to ask, "Why didn't you go and ask Heroine Ji for help?"

Yin Wu didn't hide anything, saying, "My mistress has sheathed her sword for many years and hasn't been to the martial world for a long time. Besides, she's no match for Yu Xu."

Lan Tianpeng immediately chimed in, "We're going to rescue Miss Lan now..."

Upon hearing this, Yin Wu immediately stood up and bowed, saying, "On behalf of my mistress, I'd like to thank Young Master Lan and Miss Xiao."

Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua hurriedly returned the bow, saying, "Senior, there's no need for such formalities. We're all family, and rescuing Miss Lan from danger is our duty. Now, we have a few questions for you to answer."

As Yin Wu returned to his seat, he firmly said, "Please ask whatever you have to say, Young Master and Miss Xiao. I will answer truthfully to the best of my knowledge."

Lan Tianpeng asked first, "After Uncle Yan left, were there any...?" "Did the altar send experts to chase after us?"

Yin Wu shook his head and said, "No, I instructed the shopkeepers who were beckoning customers at the door to be especially careful."

Xiao Qionghua interjected, "Are there any suspicious people?"

Yin Wu shook his head again and said, "I haven't found any. This road is mostly frequented by merchants who buy furs from the western mountain area. Martial arts figures are rarely seen here. The Kongtong Sect probably wouldn't come here."

Upon hearing this, Lan Dapeng interjected, "Now, please, Senior Yin, prepare three days' worth of provisions for our journey. We plan to depart around noon. We'll prepare the rest of the provisions after we reach Huaping."

Yin Wu nodded repeatedly in agreement, saying, "Yes, yes, I will personally prepare them in a moment."

At this time, Aunt Huang had already brought breakfast, which included two kinds of wild game due to the proximity to the mountains. After breakfast, Liu Dapeng and Xiao Qionghua rested in separate rooms, while Yin Wu went to prepare the provisions and other items that Lan Dapeng and Xiao Qionghua had brought. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua took a short nap, and upon waking, immediately began meditating to regulate their breathing. Aunt Huang secretly kept watch in the courtyard to prevent any disturbance to their rest.

After their meditation, they felt refreshed and their fatigue completely gone. Each went to their room to practice their own sword techniques, focusing on both strength and gentleness. In a few days, they would be venturing deep into enemy territory to rescue Lan Xiangji. While their opponents might not be top-tier masters, they might very well encounter a "Jade Void" expert, requiring a decisive battle. Therefore, whenever they had time, they devoted themselves to studying their sword techniques and secretly practiced using their fingers as a substitute for a sword. Before noon, Yin Wu's voice was heard at the courtyard entrance. Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua emerged from their respective rooms upon hearing the sound.

Upon seeing them, Yin Wu immediately asked humbly, "Has Shao Gusheng and Miss Xiao rested well?"

Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua smiled and said simultaneously, "Yes, they have. Have you

prepared everything?" Yin Wu smiled and said, "It's all ready."

Lan Tianpeng glanced at the sky and said, "Since it's ready, let's go now to save time."

Yin Wu didn't try to stop them and immediately said humbly, "This old man will lead the way."

So, Yin Wu went first, with Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua following behind. After leaving the back of the shop, they came to a grove of trees, and Yin Wu headed straight for a small house in the grove. Since Yin Wu wasn't carrying anything, and went straight to the small house, it was assumed that the food he had prepared was already placed inside. Reaching the small house, Yin Wu went inside alone, and after a short while, he came out carrying four hanging bags and two coils of rope. Yin Wu first handed the four bags to Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua respectively, then, holding two loops of thin rope, said, "These two loops of rope will save a lot of time and make things much more convenient when traveling through the mountains."

Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua each took a look. They saw that the ropes were as thick as willow branches, very light and flexible, with a grappling hook at one end and a hidden slipknot, exquisitely crafted. After looking at them, the two praised in unison, "Very good. This thing can not only be used to leap across deep ravines and cliffs, but also to bind beasts and tie people up."

Yin Wu specifically reminded them, "The greatest use is probably in water dungeons."

Lan Tianpeng immediately seemed to understand and said, "If it is indeed as dangerous as Uncle Yan said, these two loops of grappling hook rope are really useful."

Xiao Qionghua had already put the food bag on her slender waist belt and immediately urged, "Let's go."

Upon hearing this, Yin Wu immediately pointed to due north and said, "Young Valley Master, you two can go directly north from here. The terrain not only gets higher and higher, but it is also all continuous forest, except..." "After passing the woodcutter and hunter, there are hardly any travelers."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua immediately cupped their hands and said, "Senior Yin, goodbye."

Yin Wu also quickly clasped his fists and said respectfully, "I wish you both a safe journey."

Lan Tianpeng and Xiao Qionghua thanked him again, then used their lightness skills to fly north through the gaps in the forest. After a while, they found themselves surrounded by continuous forests, and the terrain gradually rose higher as they went north, eventually entering a hilly mountainous area. As the light gradually dimmed, the two gave a hand gesture, took off into the air, and flew straight to the treetops, displaying their unparalleled lightness skills as they sped north.

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