Cold Fragrance Valley [Complete] - 3

Chapter Three: The Golden Dove and the Silver Staff.

A remarkably handsome young man, about eighteen or nineteen years old, gracefully ascended the hall steps and entered. Based on the earlier announcement, he was clearly the young swordsman from Tiantai, Ouyang Zi. This young swordsman Ouyang was dressed almost identically to Lan Tianpeng, in a silver-gray scholar's cap and a gleaming satin robe adorned with silver flowers. The only difference was that Ouyang Zi wore high-heeled pink boots and carried a speckled silver sword at his waist. Especially when compared to Gao Lianying, who was escorting him with the "Golden Dove and Silver Staff," the young swordsman Ouyang's face was exceptionally fair and delicate. While Gao Lianying lacked the feminine grace expected of a girl, the young swordsman Ouyang lacked the heroic spirit expected of a boy.

Upon seeing "Golden Dove and Silver Staff" come to greet her, Ouyang Zi immediately smiled, revealing two rows of pearly white teeth. She bowed deeply in a quiet manner and said in a slightly childlike voice, "Junior Ouyang Zi has come to offer birthday wishes to Senior, and to wish you longevity and good fortune." As she spoke, she knelt and kowtowed.

"Golden Dove and Silver Staff" quickly gestured for her to rise, and said with a kind smile, "Young hero, you have come all the way from Tiantai, enduring much hardship along the way. Please come inside and have some tea." She then introduced her beloved daughter, Gao Lianying, who this time did not refer to herself as "little sister." At this moment, the heroes conversing inside the hall, and the martial arts guests standing outside, fell silent, but all eyes had shifted from Lan Tianpeng to Ouyang Zi.

After looking around, the beggar Ma Wu glanced at Lan Tianpeng, whose gaze was still fixed on Ouyang Zi, and asked in a low voice, "Young man, do you know that young hero Ouyang?"

Lan Tianpeng, his gaze unwavering, shook his head slightly, but said with a puzzled look, "Fifth Uncle, don't you think he looks a bit like my cousin Xiao Qionghua?"

The beggar exclaimed in surprise, then turned to look at the young hero Ouyang, who was already walking into the hall. At the same time, he whispered, "Silly boy, how would an old man like me know what your cousin Xiao Qionghua looks like?"

Lan Tianpeng, his gaze unwavering, muttered to himself, "Their features are somewhat similar, but they seem to be a bit taller than my cousin."

Upon hearing this, the beggar whispered without hesitation, "That's because he's wearing thick-soled pink boots." As he spoke, Ouyang Zi gracefully walked into the inner hall. At the same time, the beggar noticed that Ouyang Zi's eyes were like water, her face was as delicate as a flower, her eyebrows were like peach blossoms and willow branches, and her lips were small. A thought struck him, and he unconsciously whispered, "Silly boy, she might be a virgin."

"Young girl" is a term used to refer to a young girl, so Lan Tianpeng asked in confusion, "Young girl?" The beggar, seeing that Lan Tianpeng hadn't lowered his voice, was startled, as the young hero Ouyang was already close by. Startled, he turned his head and, sure enough, the young hero Ouyang was staring at him and Lan Tianpeng with two sharp, sword-like eyes. The beggar was startled, secretly praising: "Such superb internal strength!"

However, when Ouyang Zi's imposing gaze shifted to Lan Tianpeng's handsome face, her gaze flashed with cold light, but it vanished in an instant. The assembled heroes standing silently on either side of the hall were all shaken, exchanging pale glances. It seemed that this young hero Ouyang, at such a young age, already possessed such profound internal strength; his future achievements were easily imaginable. The beggar, Ma Wu, was even more anxious, unconsciously gathering his inner strength, because he was certain that the young hero Ouyang would come to confront him, Lan Tianpeng.

Because there are many handsome young men in the world with feminine features, but to compare a handsome young man to a "little girl" is an insult. The beggar understood that judging from the young Ouyang's eyes alone, he, the old beggar, might not be confident of victory if a fight broke out. Especially since the opponent possessed such refined internal energy and was wielding the "King of Blades" sword—assuming it was an ancient divine weapon—once true energy flowed into the blade, the surging, chilling sword aura alone would be enough to injure. While he was secretly on guard, the young Ouyang's expression immediately softened after their eyes met, and he seemed to want to approach but hesitated.

The beggar, being a formidable figure, immediately nodded slightly and greeted with a smile, "Young Hero Ouyang, please sit here."

Young Hero Ouyang nodded humbly, a bright smile spreading across his face, and was about to step forward when suddenly someone called out urgently, "Young Hero, please come this way!" As they spoke, a young man in a sweater rushed over from the table set up opposite them.

Lan Tianpeng and the beggar Ma Wu recognized him immediately as Wu Jinxiong, the young master of "Evil Tiger Manor," nicknamed "Little Tyrant." Seeing "Little Tyrant" addressing him, Young Hero Ouyang had no choice but to stop, but his sharply arched eyebrows furrowed slightly, clearly indicating he didn't recognize "Little Tyrant." "Little Tyrant" immediately blocked Ouyang Zi's path, clearly determined to prevent her from meeting Lan Tianpeng and the beggar. Upon seeing "Little Tyrant" blocking her way, Ouyang Zi immediately asked impatiently, "I don't know you, why are you greeting me?"

"Little Tyrant" was annoyed by Ouyang Zi's unfriendly manner, but still greeted her with a smile and clasped his hands, introducing himself: "My name is Wu Jinxiong, from 'Evil Tiger Manor' in northern Guizhou. My father is Wu Sheng..."

Before he could finish, Ouyang Zi smiled broadly and said, "So you are the young master of Manor Wu! My apologies for my rudeness. May I ask what brings you here?" "

Little Tyrant" saw Ouyang Zi's dismissive smile, tinged with contempt, especially her aloof stance and unyielding defiance. This only fueled his anger, but he forced himself to remain composed, saying, "My grand-uncle is eager to meet you, young hero Ouyang..."

Ouyang Zi immediately interrupted, asking, "Where is your grand-uncle now?"

"Little Tyrant" hastily turned and pointed to the opposite table, urgently saying, "Right in front of the VIP room." Lan Tianpeng and the beggar also turned to look, and there stood the old Taoist "Liao Chen," who was wading across the river on a wooden plank, wearing a grey Taoist robe with a gold-threaded sword hilt exposed on his back and a golden bridle in his hair.

"Liao Chen" stood before the two small rooms with sandalwood screens in the hall, his triangular eyes gleaming, twirling a few tassels of his beard as he arrogantly looked at Ouyang Zi, nodding and smiling, completely behaving like an elder. Upon seeing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately looked at the beggar and said in a low, indignant voice, "So Wu Jinxiong is a lay disciple of the Kongtong Sect. I didn't know that before, otherwise, I should have found out the whereabouts of Master Songyun and 'Black Hand Sanlang' from him." At such close range, "Little Tyrant" Wu Jinxiong could naturally hear him, so he immediately turned around and glared at Lan Tianpeng angrily.

The young hero Ouyang glanced at "Liaochen" and then smiled apologetically at "Little Tyrant," saying, "Young Master Wu, please inform your master uncle first. I will go to ask him for guidance later." After saying this, he strode towards Lan Tianpeng. Unexpectedly, "Little Tyrant" suddenly flashed to the side, blocking Ouyang Zi's path, and asked in a deep voice, "Young Master Ouyang, do you know them?"

Lan Tianpeng was furious upon seeing this and was about to shout when the beggar grabbed his right wrist, whispering a warning, "Foolish boy, you mustn't do that. This is the birthday celebration of 'Golden Dove and Silver Staff.' Even the greatest grudges must wait until we leave 'Gao Family Tower,' otherwise, if we incite public outrage and break the rules of the martial world, what will become of us?"

As he spoke, Ouyang Zi raised an eyebrow and said in a deep voice, "Young Master Wu, consider yourself lucky. Today is Senior Liu's auspicious day..."

"Little Tyrant" still remembered the humiliation of losing the horse and the hatred of being thrown, so he also asked in a deep voice, "So what if it's not an auspicious day?"

Ouyang Zi raised an eyebrow, his eyes flashing with cold light, and said in a low voice, "I want you to shed blood here immediately." Before the word "auspicious day" was even out of his mouth, "Liao Chen" shouted angrily, "Jin Xiong, come here."

"Little Tyrant" was about to lash out, but upon hearing "Liao Chen's" low shout, he could only say in a deep voice, "Ouyang brat, you're lucky today. We'll see." With that, he turned and walked sullenly toward "Liao Chen."

Ouyang Zi was not to be outdone. He smiled coldly and said arrogantly in a deep voice, "Very well. From your grandmaster to your master and uncle, I am ready to teach you anything." As soon as he said this, all the martial arts guests standing quietly in the two halls were shocked. Of course, there were also many people present who showed their dissatisfaction, but due to the rules of the martial arts world, they could not cause trouble today and had to suppress their dissatisfaction. Among them, Lan Tianpeng was one of those who secretly dissatisfied him.

The beggar, naturally noticing Lan Tianpeng's expression, immediately whispered a warning: "Foolish boy, in this situation, without real talent and without anyone backing you up, even if you scare this young hero Ouyang to death, you wouldn't dare to involve the esteemed 'Jade Venerable Master' in public. When this young hero Ouyang comes over later, you should thoroughly investigate his background." As he spoke, the young hero Ouyang, composed and smiling, walked over, so Lan Tianpeng couldn't reply to the beggar.

Upon seeing Ouyang Zi, the beggar immediately introduced himself with a grin, saying, "Young hero Ouyang, I am Old Beggar Ma Wu. You must have heard of me, right?"

Ouyang Zi's expression brightened upon hearing this, and he quickly cupped his hands and said respectfully, "So you are the renowned beggar elder, Ouyang Zi. This junior greets you with courtesy." As he spoke, he bowed deeply to the ground. Because of the gazes of all the guests in the hall, and because the "Golden Dove and Silver Staff" continued to welcome the arriving guests, the beggar could not laugh loudly. However, he still returned the greeting with a fist and a fist salute and said with a smile, "It is truly rare that Young Hero Ouyang remembers my humble name in the martial world. I am genuinely pleased to hear this.

" Ouyang Zi also smiled humbly and said, "I have often heard people talk about your chivalrous deeds in the martial world in the past, and I admire you greatly. By the time I started to travel the martial world on my own, it was said that you had already gone to the immortal mountain to cultivate immortality..."

Before he could finish speaking, the beggar could no longer help but burst into laughter. However, he quickly suppressed his laughter, lowered his voice, and said humorously, "Going into the mountain is true, but I almost lost my soul in the process." After saying this, they laughed together and quickly changed the subject, saying, "Come, let me introduce a new friend to you, young hero." As he spoke, he turned around and pointed to Lan Tianpeng beside him, introducing him as, "This is my nephew, Lan Tianpeng."

Before she could finish speaking, Ouyang Zi's expression suddenly changed. Pointing at Lan Tianpeng, she exclaimed in surprise, "What? You're Lan Tianpeng?" The

beggar, sensing something amiss, asked in confusion, "What, young hero, do you know him?" As he spoke, he glanced deliberately at Ouyang Zi's raised, slender finger.

Ouyang Zi seemed to realize her slip of the tongue, quickly lowering her right hand and shaking her head, saying vaguely, "This junior doesn't know him, but... I seem to have heard this name somewhere before." Lan

Tianpeng already felt a sense of kinship with Ouyang Zi, who resembled his cousin Xiao Qionghua. Hearing Ouyang Zi mention that he seemed to have heard of him somewhere before, he became even more convinced that Ouyang Zi must be a relative with some connection to his cousin's family. Therefore, he quickly stepped forward, cupped his hands, and smiled, saying, "My family has lived in Lengxiang Valley of Motian Ridge for generations. My late father's given name was Chongren, and a friend gave him the nickname 'Golden Back Knife'..."

Ouyang Zi's expression had already calmed down, so before Lan Tianpeng could finish speaking, he quickly cupped his hands and said, "Senior Lan, your prestige is renowned beyond the Great Wall, and your fame spreads far and wide. I have long admired you. Today, I am honored to meet Young Master Lan, and I am truly grateful. I hope that Young Master Lan will continue to guide me..."

Lan Tianpeng was eager to know if Ouyang Zi had any familial relationship with his cousin Xiao Qionghua's family, so he also quickly cupped his hands, smiling humbly, and said, "Likewise, I will have many things to ask you for guidance in the future, and I hope you will not hesitate to teach me." "Good," he said, then quickly changed the subject, "My aunt, Lan Yilan, is known as 'Silver Sky Blue Swallow'..."

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Zi bowed again humbly and said, "Senior Lan is a heroine, punishing evil and upholding justice with ruthless skill. I have long admired her..."

The beggar had already seen through Lan Tianpeng's intentions and immediately interjected with a smile, "Then, young hero Lan, you must know your daughter, Xiao Qionghua, right?"

Just then, music suddenly burst forth outside the hall, and at the same time, the old gentleman on the steps announced loudly, "All the heroes and chivalrous figures in the hall, please move outside for a moment so that tables can be set up." As soon as he finished speaking, a rustling of tables and chairs moved through the hall. The group of heroes who had been chatting and laughing among the tables and chairs all headed outside.

The beggar seemed to intend to leave, and immediately stepped forward, pointed outside, and said with a smile, "You young ones can chat in pairs, and I, this old beggar, will go and have a chat with those old fogies." Upon hearing the words "

pairing up," Ouyang Zi's fair face suddenly flushed crimson. He quickly bowed slightly, addressing the departing beggar, "Senior Ma, please proceed."

Lan Tianpeng, though silent, bowed and saw him off, watching the beggar walk out of the hall. However, when his gaze instinctively fell upon the hall entrance, Gao Lianying, still standing there with her mother, "Golden Dove and Silver Staff," turned and smiled, looking at him with deep affection. Lan Tianpeng's heart skipped a beat, his handsome face burning, but he quickly shielded himself from the martial arts guests outside. He could see a special meaning in Gao's smile; after all, he was familiar with this kind of expression from girls, having witnessed it in his junior sister Ding Mengmei and his cousin Xiao Qionghua.

Just as Lan Tianpeng was pondering the meaning behind that fleeting, coquettish smile, Ouyang Zi coldly asked, "Is Young Master Lan's relationship with Miss Gao already quite close?"

Lan Tianpeng was startled and whispered to Ouyang Zi in surprise, "Brother Ouyang, please don't misunderstand. I came to offer my birthday greetings today entirely out of necessity. Before this, I had no idea who you or Miss Gao were." As he spoke, he noticed that the male servants of the Gao family were busy moving tables and chairs, and the group of heroes had disappeared from the hall. So, he immediately changed his tune and suggested, "Brother Ouyang, let's talk outside." After saying this, he turned around and reached out to grasp Ouyang Zi's right wrist, but just as he touched Ouyang Zi's delicate wrist, she skillfully dodged it.

Ouyang Zi was an extremely shrewd man. In the instant he made his move, he subtly and respectfully bowed slightly, smiling as he said, "Brother Tianpeng, please."

Lan Tianpeng, having already been paying close attention to Ouyang Zi because the beggar had mentioned she was a girl, felt a slight unease at her actions. However, he showed no outward expression, simply nodding in thanks and leading the way towards the right-hand door of the hall. The two passed busy male servants and tables and chairs, and upon reaching the side door, they found the eaves and steps below already filled with heroes emerging from the hall. But what caught Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi's attention most was a strikingly beautiful woman dressed in black, with two swords strapped to her back, standing beneath the side door.

The woman in black, a foxy beauty of about twenty-five or twenty-six, had an oval face, delicate eyebrows, captivating eyes, and thin, bright red lips. Her small, straight nose was particularly alluring. Her black silk dress clung tightly to her voluptuous figure, highlighting her curves and exuding a captivating charm. At this moment, the woman leaned languidly against a doorpost, her eyes slightly narrowed, a provocative smile playing on her bright red lips. Her gaze was soft as she looked at Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi, as if a mere nudge would send her sprawling. Lan Tianpeng

glanced at the woman, then hurried past with Ouyang Zi, heading down the steps into the courtyard. The courtyard was already filled with small groups of martial arts guests, each chatting about their own journey, but they all paid close attention to Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi as they descended the steps from the side hall. As the courtyard beside the hall was filled with martial arts guests offering their congratulations, Lan Tianpeng walked forward, asking in a low voice, "Brother Ouyang, who is that woman in black?"

Ouyang Zi immediately snorted and said indignantly, "A shameless person."

Lan Tianpeng, new to the martial world and lacking experience in judging character, said in surprise, "How could that be? She doesn't seem vulgar at all, just a little frivolous."

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Zi couldn't help but ask angrily, "Do you know who she is? She's the 'Double-Blade Black Rose'!"

Lan Tianpeng, without hesitation, said, "The rose is the most beautiful of flowers."

Seeing Lan Tianpeng's reaction, Ouyang Zi blurted out angrily, "But don't forget that roses have thorns!" As soon as the words left her mouth, Ouyang Zi suddenly realized that her tone was almost accusatory. Speaking so bluntly so soon after meeting could easily offend or misunderstand the other party, so she quickly softened her voice and said with a smile, "Let's talk in the garden." As she spoke, she pointed to the opposite side of the Guangyuan Academy and hurried forward.

Lan Tianpeng looked up and noticed a perforated brick wall opposite the academy, with a moon-shaped gate in the center. The flower-filled village outside the wall was clearly visible under the bright lights. As they approached the moon-shaped gate, Ouyang Zi immediately changed to a more humble tone and asked, "Brother Tianpeng, could you turn around and look? Among those martial arts guests, there are both men and women. See if they have spoken to 'Double-Blade Black Rose,' or even glanced at her?"

Lan Tianpeng turned around as instructed and saw "Double-Blade Black Rose" walking down the steps, her gaze fixed on them, a smile blooming on her red lips, slowly approaching. At the same time, Lan Tianpeng also noticed that on either side of "Double-Blade Black Rose's" ample hips hung a bulging black velvet pouch. Looking at the martial arts guests in the courtyard, as expected, not a single one nodded or greeted her. Instead, most of them glanced at her after "Double-Blade Black Rose" passed by, and their expressions revealed a hint of fear.

After Lan Tianpeng finished watching and walked out of the moon-shaped gate, he immediately looked at Ouyang Zi and said in surprise, "This Black Rose's martial arts are so powerful!"

Ouyang Zi smiled coldly and said contemptuously, "Her martial arts can only be considered second or third-rate. What's powerful are her two bags of vicious hidden weapons." As they spoke, the two had already arrived at a vermilion pavilion. Lan Tianpeng gestured for Ouyang Zi to ascend the pavilion steps first, and at the same time asked with a seemingly casual smile, "Brother Ouyang, are you now among the first-rate masters?"

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Zi couldn't help but smile. Her smile was natural and somewhat sweet, but she said humorously, "I can't say I've entered the ranks yet."

Lan Tianpeng was taken aback. Although he had a good impression of Ouyang Zi because she somewhat resembled Xiao Qionghua, he was somewhat dismissive of her answer and asked in confusion, "So, Brother Ouyang, you're a newcomer to the martial arts world?"

Ouyang Zi smiled faintly, her delicate eyebrows slightly furrowed. He said, "I've been wandering the martial world for two or three years now."

Lan Tianpeng, upon hearing this, couldn't help but feel a little angry, but still patiently asked, "What did you mean when you said you weren't yet a master?"

Ouyang Zi looked at Lan Tianpeng with gentle eyes like autumn water, smiling elegantly yet helplessly, and said, "For over two years, no master of the martial world has sparred with me, so naturally I haven't reached the level of

a master." Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng's anger flared instantly. These words were far too arrogant; at first glance, it seemed as if no one had ever clashed with Ouyang Zi. Thinking about it carefully, and comparing it to his mockery of "Little Tyrant," it was clear that he didn't even consider "Master Yuxu" worthy of his attention. How could anyone else compare to him, Ouyang Zi? Before he could finish his thought, Ouyang Zi, seemingly already understanding Lan Tianpeng's intentions, said humbly, "Looking at Brother Tianpeng, dressed like a scholar, unarmed and without a weapon, you must be quite skilled in martial arts?"

Lan Tianpeng had been studying diligently on Mount Fanjing for over nine months, influenced by the middle-aged man in yellow. Once angered, he immediately lost his composure. Dissatisfied with Ouyang Zi's arrogant words, he was about to say that it was his first time down the mountain and he hadn't yet handled a weapon, but instead resolutely said in a deep voice, "I've only gained some experience; I can't say I'm skilled."

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Zi smiled calmly, unlike Lan Tianpeng, whose anger was immediately revealed on his face. Upon seeing this, Lan Tianpeng couldn't help but ask again, "Brother Ouyang, do you not believe me?"

Ouyang Zi immediately shook her head and said seriously, "No, no, of course I believe you, but in the martial arts world today, there is only one disciple who dares to go unarmed and unarmed. Your master must be..." She stopped abruptly, looked at Lan Tianpeng, and whispered alertly, "Someone's coming."

Lan Tianpeng turned to look outside the moon-shaped gate. Besides two rows of blooming flowers and two neatly trimmed canna lilies, there was no one in sight. He then listened intently and was secretly startled. Sure enough, someone was hurrying towards them. Lan Tianpeng wasn't surprised by who the person was, but rather by the fact that Ouyang Zi, while talking to him, could still discreetly observe suspicious movements several dozen feet away. He, Lan Tianpeng, was inferior in this skill. But as his mind raced and he looked towards the moon-shaped gate, he blurted out, "They seem to be in a hurry. Could it be that 'Black Rose'?"

Ouyang Zi nodded in admiration, but said, "Her steps were hurried, but it wasn't Black Rose." Lan

Tianpeng couldn't figure out who it was and asked in confusion, "Why?"

Ouyang Zi immediately smiled faintly and said disdainfully, "I'm afraid she doesn't have that kind of guts."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng suddenly seemed to understand and stood up, saying, "It must be my Uncle Ma Wu."

Ouyang Zi still smiled faintly, but said humorously, "He left intentionally, why bother to come back?"

Lan Tianpeng mistakenly thought that Ouyang Zi was referring to the beggar who intended to meet an old friend, so he didn't suspect him. However, he looked at the moon gate in confusion and said, "Who could it be?"

Ouyang Zi smiled mysteriously and said, "Naturally, it's that hospitable Miss Gao." As soon as the words "Miss Gao" left her lips, a flash of red appeared from within the moon-shaped gate, revealing Gao Lianying dressed in bright red. Upon seeing Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi in the pavilion, Gao Lianying smiled with a mixture of surprise and reproach, saying, "You two honored guests are really like playing hide-and-seek; I've been looking for you for ages!"

Lan Tianpeng, seeing that it was indeed Gao Lianying, naturally smiled and descended from the pavilion. However, Ouyang Zi asked, half-jokingly and half-seriously, "What is so important that you have to trouble your esteemed presence to find us?"

Gao Lianying stamped her small boots and immediately said with a slightly anxious reproach, "The birthday banquet is about to begin, and we're only missing the two of you..." Before she could finish speaking, Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi had already walked towards the moon-shaped gate where Gao Lianying stood. But Ouyang Zi said humorously, "Strange, with so many guests, no less than a hundred tables, why does Miss Gao say we're only missing the two of us?" "

Gao Lianying blushed instantly upon hearing the question, but being clever, she still laughed heartily and said, "One is the young master from beyond the Great Wall, and the other is the young hero from Tiantai. Both come from martial arts families and have close ties. How could they not catch my attention?" After speaking, she turned and the three of them walked side by side into the courtyard.

Sure enough, the groups of martial arts guests were gone from the courtyard. Instead, the brightly lit hall was filled with people moving about, seemingly taking their seats in order. As Gao Lianying walked forward, she saw the crowd of people taking their seats in the hall and seemed to remember something important. Her eyebrows furrowed, and she looked at Ouyang Zi with concern, asking, "Young hero Ouyang, when the rankings were being determined earlier, Abbot Liaochen of the Lüzu Temple in Phoenix City said that Tiantai has neither a martial arts family nor a local overlord, and my mother doesn't know your family background. Liaochen also insisted that your seat cannot be placed next to my mother's." Upon hearing that there were no martial arts families on the rooftop, Lan

Tianpeng immediately remembered the beggar's instruction to investigate Ouyang Zi's family background. He realized the beggar's excuse for leaving must have been about this, and he himself had missed the opportunity while chatting idly. Now, he felt a pang of regret. Seeing Gao Lianying mention Ouyang Zi's family background, he naturally paid extra attention. He was certain that Ouyang Zi and Gao Lianying didn't know each other before, but he noticed hurried footsteps in the pavilion, and Ouyang Zi was certain it was Gao Lianying. Realizing this, he was startled to discover that Ouyang Zi's skill was not only superior to his own, but also seemed to surpass him in wisdom. The

composed Ouyang Zi, without anger, smiled faintly and said, "Martial arts customs are not to be followed. Must one possess the prestige of a martial arts family or the reputation of a powerful local tyrant to come and offer birthday greetings? And must one sit with the birthday celebrant and the birthday matriarch?" " I believe we should respect the elders and let those older guests, who are not local tyrants or from martial arts families, sit at the same table as Senior Liu..."

Before she could finish, Gao Lianying, with a disgruntled tone, agreed, "Yes, like that 'Little Tyrant' Wu Jinxiong from 'Evil Tiger Manor,' he only came on behalf of his father, yet he was placed alongside Elder Jinghai of Shaolin." She paused, then suddenly remembered something, turned to Lan Tianpeng, and continued, "There's something even more infuriating. 'Liaochen' insists that Young Master Lan is not qualified to sit with my mother." Before Lan Tianpeng

could express his opinion, Ouyang Zidu interrupted angrily, "Why?"

Gao Lianying also said indignantly, "Liaochen said that Young Master Lan's family is ruined, Lengyun Manor has long been destroyed, and Old Hero Lan has passed away. Lengyun Manor is now just a name without substance." Before she could finish speaking, Ouyang Zi noticed that Lan Tianpeng's face was ashen, his murderous aura radiating from him, and his cold, piercing gaze flashing incessantly. His anger had clearly reached its peak. Therefore, she nudged Gao Lianying and asked gently, "And then?"

Gao Lianying, of course, had also seen it. She deeply regretted her bluntness and quickly smiled, saying, "Later, everyone insisted that Young Master Lan should sit at the same table as my mother, and 'Liao Chen' had nothing to say." Having said this, she had already reached the high steps of the side door of the hall. Gao Lianying immediately smiled and gestured respectfully, saying, "Please." Lan

Tianpeng and Ouyang did not refuse and went up the steps. The male servants of the Gao family standing at the side door bowed and greeted the young lady and guests as they entered. Entering the side hall, they saw nearly a hundred tables covered with red cloth, evenly arranged in the left and right side halls. Some of the guests were already seated, while others were still moving around. Due to the large number of people, most had not yet sat down. On the side of the birthday table in the main hall, the old gentleman wearing glasses loudly announced the names: "Gansu, Shaanxi, Yu, Yu, Qin, Yu Jianzhong, the Chief Prostitute of the Five Provinces, and Lu the Great镖客..."

Upon hearing this, Gao Lianying immediately exclaimed anxiously, "Oh dear, I wonder if they've called out Young Master Lan's name yet?" As she spoke, she hurried forward, parting the crowd of heroes blocking the way with her delicate hand while repeatedly apologizing.

Seeing that it was the beloved daughter of "Golden Dove and Silver Staff," the heroes smiled and made way for her. Lan Tianpeng had intended to find a seat near the side door, but seeing Gao Lianying's cheerful and exceptionally warm-hearted concern for his ranking, he had no choice but to follow behind. Ouyang Zi seemed even less concerned about the ranking, and since Lan Tianpeng continued forward, she too had to follow.

Lan Tianpeng paid no attention to the old gentleman's melodious voice as he called out the names; his instinct was to look at the bright red longevity screen, about fifteen feet high, and the five large gold-lacquered banners surrounding a six-foot-tall gold-lacquered character for "longevity," which gleamed brilliantly under the light of nearly a hundred bright gauze lanterns in the hall. Below the longevity screen, on the offering table, a pair of longevity candles burned brightly, along with longevity peaches, longevity noodles, fresh flowers, and fruits. Before the observation was finished, they had reached the front of the inner hall. In the center of the hall, a dozen long tables were arranged in a horseshoe shape, forming the character "凹" (U). In the central seat, a gilded longevity-character armchair sat empty; everyone knew it was for the longevity matriarch, "Golden Dove and Silver Staff."

On either side of the armchair were the "Twin Elders," indicating their status in the martial arts world. Sitting close to the black wall was Deng, the old Taoist "Liaochen." Next to him was a tall, imposing old monk with a purple face and no beard. His white eyebrows and bald head, dressed in a hundred-sleeved robe, exuded a dignified yet subtly benevolent appearance. Beside him sat "Little Tyrant." With "Little Tyrant" present, the purple-faced, beardless old monk was clearly the Shaolin elder "Jinghai" Zen Master that Gao Lianying had just mentioned.

The "Pure Sea" master sat between "Liao Chen" and "Little Tyrant," his hands clasped in prayer, his expression serene. He seemed unconcerned about being placed alongside "Little Tyrant," a renowned elder of Shaolin, displaying the profound cultivation of a highly accomplished monk. Below "Little Tyrant" Wu Jinxiong were those at side tables, their profiles and backs visible, clearly leaders of their respective factions.

Below the white-robed historian on the right side of the longevity chair, the first person was the Beggar Clan elder, Xia Gai Ma Wu, followed by an elderly man in a silk robe. This elderly man, around seventy years old, with frosty eyebrows and a silver beard, possessed fierce eyes, but his piercing gaze frequently swept across the crowd, his expression slightly anxious, clearly searching for someone. Next was a middle-aged woman of elegant bearing, wearing a blue silk robe that obscured her lower body.

Just as he was looking across the table, he suddenly heard the old gentleman raise a red invitation card and loudly announce, "Young Master Lan of 'Cold Fragrance Valley' at Motianling in Guandong, please take your seat..."

Before Lan Tianpeng could make a move, Gao Lianying, who was standing nearby, impatiently called out, "Here!" Without waiting for Lan Tianpeng's reply, she walked straight to the front of the long table. Lan Tianpeng didn't want to go over there, but the beggar uncle sitting at the head of the table nodded slightly, inviting him to sit down, and Gao Lianying's warm hospitality also made him go over. When he reached the end of the table, he saw that there was only one seat left, marked "Respectfully accompanying you at the end of the table."

The "Little Tyrant," seated next to Zen Master Jinghai, had originally intended to take advantage of Lan Tianpeng's arrival to deliver a sarcastic remark and vent his anger. However, when he noticed Gao Lianying specifically leading Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi to their seats, he was already seething with rage. Seeing Gao Lianying's enthusiasm and eagerness only fueled his anger, making him want to storm off, as the "Little Tyrant" had already spread rumors that Gao Lianying was his fiancée.

Seeing that it was the last chair, Gao Lianying looked embarrassed, her face showing a hint of embarrassment, but she still forced a smile and politely invited Lan Tianpeng to sit down. Ouyang Zi, following behind, subtly nudged Lan Tianpeng. Under these circumstances, Lan Tianpeng had no choice but to resolutely sit in the last chair. However, Ouyang Zi then brought over a round stool and sat at the table next to Lan Tianpeng. Upon seeing this, the assembled guests immediately chuckled softly. Gao Lianying had intended to sit at the table next to Lan Tianpeng under the pretext of offering a toast on behalf of her mother, but Ouyang Zi beat her to it. Of course, she never imagined that Ouyang Zi had already seen through her intentions.

The old gentleman calling out the names glanced down at his glasses and was startled, but he couldn't offend his guests. He could only watch as the guests of Yan Liao took their seats and deliberately said loudly, "Distinguished guests, I apologize that your names haven't been called. Please feel free to sit at any of the tables in the two halls." However, Ouyang Zi, who was quietly chatting and laughing with Lan Tianpeng, seemed not to hear at all and remained seated.

"Little Tyrant" had already realized that as soon as Ouyang Zi left, Gao Lianying would immediately take her place—something he desperately wanted to avoid. At this moment, anger, rage, shame, and resentment filled his stomach, forcing him to mutter involuntarily, "What a shameless person! He doesn't deserve to sit here; he'd be better off just sitting at the table."

Upon hearing "Little Tyrant's" double entendre, Lan Tianpeng was instantly enraged. However, before he could utter a word of rebuke, Ouyang Zi coldly smiled and said, "You, the shameless and ungrateful young man surnamed Wu, are you yourself. The old hero Lan of 'Cold Fragrance Valley' has already passed away, and you? Your father, 'Mourning Stick,' is still alive, and you can't wait to sit in his current position."

Upon hearing this, some of the assembled guests were shocked by Ouyang Zi's audacity, while others, aware of the infamous reputation of the "Mourning Stick" father and son, deliberately let out a mocking laugh. Since placing "Little Tyrant" below Zen Master Jinghai was Liaochen's idea, the evil Taoist was naturally unable to contain himself, especially since everyone knew that "Little Tyrant" was a lay disciple of "Liaofan" of the Kongtong Sect. Liaochen, mindful of this, and also because of Ouyang Zi's earlier insult to "Master Yuxu," could no longer hold back and suddenly stood up. At the same time, he glared and angrily said, "How can you, a junior, speak incoherently and utter ominous words at the birthday banquet of a martial arts senior?"

Ouyang Zi remained seated, leisurely interjecting with a mocking tone, "The highly cultivated and accomplished Daoist Gao Zenggao recites Buddhist chants before even speaking. You, Liaochen, don't even know how to say 'Amitabha Buddha,' you only know how to raise your eyebrows, glare, and shout randomly. It's truly inappropriate to have you as the abbot; it's just a ridiculous charade." Before he could finish speaking, the hundreds of heroes in the hall burst into thunderous laughter. Liao

Chen, who considered himself the chief disciple of the Kongtong Sect and the future successor to the sect leader, was always arrogant and disdainful of others. How could he tolerate an unknown young man openly humiliating him in front of the heroes who had come from all over to celebrate his birthday? Therefore, he slammed his hand on the table, pointed at Ouyang Zi, and said sternly, "Ignorant brat, disrespectful to your elders, how dare you insult this humble Daoist..."

Before he could finish speaking, the old man in the satin-clothed robe sitting on the large chair under the beggar Ma Wu said in a gentle tone, "Daoist Liao Chen, I originally did not want to cause trouble before this auspicious and joyous birthday banquet begins. To be honest, young hero Ouyang and young master Wu are young and impetuous, and a few words are enough to pass. You, as their senior brother, not only did not stop your junior brother, but also spoke harshly and criticized him. This is unbecoming of an elder."

Liao Chen saw that the old man in the satin-clothed robe was pointing fingers at him, and he became even angrier. However, what the other party said was reasonable and all his faults were his. Moreover, the other party was a ruthless person. He could only ask in a deep voice, "According to what Chief Hall Master Guo said, he is qualified to sit here?"

When Lan Tianpeng heard "Chief Hall Master Guo", his heart skipped a beat. He concluded that the old man in the satin-clothed robe was probably a member of the "Dragon and Phoenix Society". Just as the thought crossed his mind, and he was about to ask Ouyang Zi, Ouyang Zi gave a cold smile, fixed her gaze on "Liao Chen," and said in a deep voice, "Young Master's family reputation and status in the martial arts world far surpass yours, Liao Chen. In terms of qualifications, none of your Kongtong Sect's 'Golden Hairpin' level figures are qualified to sit at the same table as Young Master."

These words shocked the entire hall, immediately sparking a buzz of discussion. Upon hearing this, "Liao Chen" turned pale with anger, his beard bristling, eyes wide, body trembling, teeth clenched. Whether he was truly furious or speechless, he was momentarily unable to utter a word. Just then, the flustered old gentleman quickly and loudly proclaimed, "The auspicious moment has arrived! Please, distinguished guests, fill your cups!"

This shout reminded everyone that they had come to offer birthday greetings. Amidst the commotion and low laughter, they wiped their cups and picked up their wine jugs, instantly filling the hall with the aroma of wine. A young boy in new clothes had already prepared a set of cups, spoons, and saucers for Ouyang Zi and filled their cups with wine. Seeing this, Liao Chen could only sit down with a sullen face.

Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi exchanged a knowing smile, then turned around and realized that Gao Lianying had left sometime earlier. Just then, the bespectacled old gentleman called out loudly again, "Distinguished guests, the birthday celebrant has arrived! Let us warmly welcome her..."

Before he could finish speaking, the entire hall erupted in cheers and applause, the sound shaking the roof tiles and creating a thunderous atmosphere that was both exhilarating and exciting. The addition of drums and firecrackers outside instantly dispelled the previous unpleasant atmosphere. Even the sullen, ashen-faced "Liao Chen" had no choice but to rise and join the crowd in welcoming them, forcing a smile.

Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi, also smiling and clapping, rose to greet them. They then noticed Gao Lianying supporting her elderly mother, "Golden Dove and Silver Staff," as they walked through the VIP room separated by a sandalwood screen. Anyone with eyes could see that Gao Lianying had sensed something amiss and hastily brought her mother out. This tactic had worked perfectly. Amidst the music, firecrackers, applause, and cheers, all eyes were focused on "Golden Dove and Silver Staff," and smiles graced the faces of all the heroes for the elderly woman.

Supported by her beloved daughter, "Golden Dove and Silver Staff" leaned on her silver staff, a somewhat forced smile on her face. Gao Lianying had clearly relayed the matter of the earlier argument to her. Upon reaching the burial chair, a young maidservant, nearly fifty years old, respectfully accepted the silver staff. Gao Lianying also stepped back to allow her mother, "Golden Dove and Silver Staff," to proceed to the chair.

"Golden Dove and Silver Staff" surveyed the entire hall, her eyes gleaming. Seeing the hundreds of heroes applauding and cheering enthusiastically at her, she nodded repeatedly, smiling, and said, "Thank you! Thank you. The food and wine are meager; please, everyone, have a few more cups." As

soon as she finished speaking, the cheers and applause grew even louder. The beggar Ma Wu, seizing the opportunity, loudly proclaimed, "Gentlemen, let us raise our glasses together and wish our birthday granny a long and prosperous life, with boundless blessings. May her white hair turn black again, restoring her former beauty!"

The beggar's shout was met with cheers and thunderous applause, even the "Twin Elders," whose faces never showed a smile, couldn't help but chuckle. Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi, naturally, were no exception, raising their glasses simultaneously and downing them in one gulp. Ouyang Zi appeared refined and quiet, but his drinking prowess, like his personality, was no less than Lan Tianpeng's. The beggar, who had been observing coldly, was puzzled and frowned slightly. Gao Lianying, standing behind the "Golden Dove and Silver Staff" chair, watched intently.

"Golden Dove and Silver Staff" downed his drink in one gulp, then immediately raised both hands and cheerfully said, "Please sit, everyone." The old gentleman who had been drinking the toast also announced loudly, "The birthday banquet begins!" As soon as he finished speaking, dozens of male servants standing at the four corners of the hall and outside the door immediately busied themselves.

Thus, the birthday banquet began amidst laughter, drinking games, and toasts. "Golden Dove and Silver Staff" sat down in his chair and raised his cup to toast the guests at the two long tables on either side. Although he saw Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi at the last table, he made no comment on Ouyang Zi sitting at the head of the table, clearly afraid of causing any unpleasantness.

Before the wine had been drunk three times, the guests at the tables on both sides began to pour into the horseshoe-shaped recess, all coming to drink with "Golden Dove and Silver Staff." In the blink of an eye, the area in the center, less than two zhang wide and long, was packed with people. Only after seeing this did Lan Tianpeng understand the purpose of the empty space in the center of the horseshoe-shaped table. Because the table was crowded with people toasting "Golden Dove and Silver Staff," Lan Tianpeng's view was blocked, so he calmly thought of finding out about Ouyang Zi's background. So, Lan Tianpeng first raised his glass to toast Ouyang Zi, then smiled modestly and said, "Brother Ouyang and I hit it off immediately. As friends, we should know each other's families, but I've always hesitated to speak, fearing that we might be too familiar with each other..."

Before Lan Tianpeng could finish speaking, Ouyang Zi smiled elegantly and said, "So, Brother Tianpeng, you also think that the Tiantai families are unknown?"

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng's handsome face flushed slightly, and he quickly said seriously, "Brother Ouyang, please don't misunderstand. You know I'm new to the martial arts world and don't know much about it, such as the 'Golden Dove and Silver Staff' Senior Liu who is celebrating today's birthday..."

Upon hearing this, Ouyang Zi immediately interrupted with a tone of sudden realization, "I know the most about Senior Liu..."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng knew that Ouyang Zi was intentionally changing the subject, obviously to avoid talking about his family background in Tiantai. It seems that "Liaochen" indeed knew that there were no famous martial arts families in Tiantai. Then he thought again and felt it was inappropriate. If Ouyang Zi did not have a prominent family background, how could he dare to say that "Liao Chen" was not qualified to sit at the same table with him? If he was just being arrogant and deceitful, and he showed in every way that Ouyang Zi's skills were superior to his own, Lan Tianpeng's, even if he liked arrogance, he would not dare to disregard the leader of the Kongtong Sect. You should know that this is tantamount to provoking the entire Kongtong Sect and playing with his own life.

In his mind's eye, he heard Ouyang Zi continue, "Back then, Senior Liu's famous weapon was an iron bullet, which led her to switch to the dove-shaped staff about thirty years ago. Because she claimed that when fighting enemies, the golden dove on the staff could spray extremely poisonous golden silk snake venom, very few people dared to fight her. Especially since the snake venom in the staff was white, it was even more difficult to defend against when it was sprayed out. Therefore, Senior Liu's weapons have never met a worthy opponent..."

Upon hearing that the "golden dove and silver staff" contained poison, Lan Tianpeng's handsome face immediately changed color, because... Because the "Dui Brothers" and "Iron-Headed Monk" and others relied on various poisons to commit evil, he said in a deep voice, "So, there must be many masters who have died from the venomous snakes in her staff?"

Ouyang Zi seemed to know the reason for Lan Tianpeng's sudden change of expression, and immediately shook her head and smiled, saying, "On the contrary, not a single one in the last twenty or thirty years."

Lan Tianpeng gave a somewhat surprised "hmm," and asked in confusion, "Why is that?"

Ouyang Zi smiled and said, "Because there are no snakes in Senior Liu's silver staff at all." "The venom."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng's expression immediately softened, and he seemed to understand, saying, "I understand now. This must be Senior Liu's psychological warfare."

Ouyang Zi immediately nodded in agreement, saying, "Brother Tianpeng is indeed clever, seeing through it so quickly. It wasn't until the gangsters plotted to capture Senior Liu that they discovered that Senior Liu's golden dove head and silver staff were not hollow at all, not even a pinhole."

Hearing this, Lan Tianpeng was deeply moved and couldn't help but ask with concern, "What happened next?"

Ouyang Zi continued with a smile, "Those gangsters, after examining the silver staff, were deeply moved. Not only did they not mistreat Senior Liu, but they treated her like a hero. But from that time on, Senior Liu secluded herself from the martial world." She paused, then turned to look at the group of heroes who were enthusiastically toasting her, and continued, "Among these people, there are many heroes who were defeated by her 'Golden Dove and Silver Staff' in the past. These people not only do not hate her, but respect her. Those who were enemies before are now her good friends." As she spoke, her expression grew increasingly somber, followed by a somber sigh. She said, "

But some people, long before Senior Liu, had already conceived of this psychological warfare strategy, claiming that his hidden weapons were poisoned, and that once struck, one would instantly become a pool of blood... But... his fate... was tragic... to the point of dying of depression..." By the end, her face was deathly pale, her voice trembled, and finally, it was almost inaudible.

Lan Tianpeng, seeing this, knew that the person Ouyang Zi was referring to must have a close relationship with him, and could only say sympathetically, "People's circumstances differ, thus changing their fate; due to different weapons, they also obtained opposite results."

Ouyang Zi was startled and asked seriously, "You already know about this matter?"

Lan Tianpeng was taken aback, staring at Ouyang Zi for a long time before asking in confusion, "What do I understand?"

Ouyang Zi blinked her bright eyes in confusion, about to say something, when suddenly a sweet voice came from the table, "Young Master Lan, it is my honor to offer you a toast." Lan

Tianpeng turned around and his heart skipped a beat. He hadn't noticed when the alluring "Double-Blade Black Rose" had appeared at the table, holding a wine glass and smiling sweetly. Since she had come to offer a toast, regardless of her intentions, he couldn't be rude. Therefore, he quickly smiled, raised his glass, and stood up. However, just as he reached for his glass, Ouyang Zi suddenly stood up, grabbed his right hand and the glass, and glared angrily at "Double-Blade Black Rose," warning in a low voice: "Black Rose, I solemnly warn you, if you try to take advantage of Young Master Lan, don't blame me, Ouyang Zi, for being ruthless and merciless, and I'll tear you to pieces with my swords."

"Double-Knife Black Rose" wasn't angry at all. She curled her bright red lips, glanced down at Ouyang Zi's long, slender fingers holding Lan Tianpeng's hand, and said disdainfully, "Why are you so serious? He's not yours, is he?"

Before "Double-Knife Black Rose" could finish speaking, Ouyang Zi immediately raised an eyebrow and scolded in a low voice, "Black Rose, if you dare to talk nonsense, you'll be lying dead here tonight."

"Double-Knife Black Rose" gave a cold laugh, seemingly to appease her, and said, "Ouyang Zi, I'll think of my way, you do yours. We'll each use our own abilities, and whoever has the best solution gets it."

Ouyang Zi immediately whispered, "As long as you have the guts."

Ignoring Ouyang Zi, "Double-Knife Black Rose" gave Lan Tianpeng a seductive smile, then turned and left, saying sweetly, "Goodbye, Young Master Lan."

Although Lan Tianpeng knew "Double-Knife Black Rose" had a bad reputation, they had no grudges against each other, and apart from being slightly frivolous, he couldn't see anything wrong with her. So he bowed slightly and smiled, saying, "Farewell." As soon as "Double-Knife Black Rose"

squeezed into the crowd, Ouyang Zi looked at Lan Tianpeng and gave him a serious warning: "You must be extra careful when you encounter her in the future. Don't think she's just here to offer a toast. Know that she's exhaling, snapping her fingers, offering a toast, clinking glasses—everything she does is poisonous! If you're not careful, you'll fall into her trap." As they spoke, the two sat down at the same time and smiled at each other.

Lan Tianpeng, unaware of "Black Rose's" true intentions, raised his glass to Ouyang Zi, nonchalantly saying, "I have no grudge against her, why would she harm me?" Upon hearing this, Ouyang Zi, enraged, abruptly lowered her glass. Her lips parted, but she hesitated, a blush creeping onto her handsome face. She thought to herself, "What a fool!"

Fortunately, at that moment, a thunderous cheer erupted throughout the hall. Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi looked around and saw the crowd of heroes, who had been jostling for space, returning to their seats, raising their glasses and shouting "Good, good!" Turning to look at "Golden Dove and Silver Staff" and the Beggar, they saw Gao Lianyinglan, her expression tense and anxious, peering anxiously through the swaying crowd.

Just as Gao Lianying was feeling anxious, she suddenly noticed that Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi were still sitting in their seats, looking in her direction. Her anxious face brightened with joy, and she immediately smiled with relief. Judging from her expression, she had clearly been busy attending to the toasts offered by the assembled guests, and hadn't had time to pay attention to Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi. Seeing that the two hadn't left, her heart finally calmed down. Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi, seeing Gao Lianying nod and smile at them, politely nodded back with smiles. Before all

the guests had fully returned to their seats, the old gentleman who had been announcing the ceremony announced loudly: "Distinguished guests, now we invite the peerless martial arts master, the renowned 'Flying Flower Knife' Zhuo, to perform her signature skill to enhance the drinking atmosphere." "As soon as the words were spoken, thunderous applause and cheers erupted throughout the hall.

Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi suddenly realized why everyone had suddenly returned to their seats—it turned out they wanted someone to perform a special skill to add to the festivities. Ouyang Zi frowned and whispered, 'It's best not to start this before a celebratory birthday banquet.' Although Lan

Tianpeng would be nineteen in a few days, he still had the childlike innocence of someone wanting to watch a show. He was naturally excited to hear that someone was going to perform a special skill, but seeing Ouyang Zi's objection, he asked in confusion, 'Why?'

Ouyang Zi knew that Lan Tianpeng was new to the world of martial arts and didn't yet understand the cutthroat nature of power struggles and the tendency for everyone to be unwilling to submit to each other. So she smiled calmly and said, 'You'll find out soon enough. I'm afraid it won't end well. I just don't know who suggested it.'" As they spoke, they noticed the old Taoist priest "

Liao Chen" fawningly requesting the elegant middle-aged woman in blue robes seated on a chair below the elderly Guo Zongtang, who was dressed in a silk-smoked, sturdy robe: "All the heroes in the hall are eager to see something, so

please don't refuse, Miss Zhuo." Ouyang Zi, seeing this, immediately said angrily, "So it was this wicked Taoist's trick." Lan Tianpeng, seeing that it was "Liao Chen" who made the suggestion, immediately lost his interest in watching the spectacle and instead felt a surge of resentment. At the same time, he admired Ouyang Zi's opinion even more.

Looking at the elegant Miss Zhuo, her eyebrows slightly raised, her face showing reluctance, she humbly said to "Liao Chen," "My meager skills are hardly worthy of such a refined display. I think it would be better if you, Taoist Master..."

Before Miss Zhuo could finish speaking, "Liao Chen" immediately nodded repeatedly with a smile, saying, "Of course, of course! Miss Zhuo has already performed; it is my duty to make a fool of myself." Before he finished speaking, another wave of applause swept through the hall.

Although "Golden Dove and Silver Staff" knew that performing before the banquet would likely bring her trouble and displeasure, the assembled heroes eager for excitement were all eager for a lively celebration, and as the hostess, she couldn't pretend not to hear. So, with a beaming smile, she leaned towards Lady Zhuo and kindly requested, "Since all of you have given such a warm welcome, why don't you demonstrate your special skill, my dear sister, and let all the heroes broaden their horizons..."

Before she could finish, Lady Zhuo gave a suggestive look of unease and said, "Sister, you know..." "Golden Dove and Silver Staff" naturally knew that Lady Zhuo's hint would cause trouble, but she was already in a bind, so she could only nod kindly and smile, saying, "Sister knows, I don't think it will." Lady Zhuo nodded helplessly and had to sit up from her chair.

Upon seeing this, the assembled heroes erupted in another round of enthusiastic applause and cheers. Amidst applause and cheers, the female knight-errant removed her blue silk robe, revealing a blue satin outfit underneath, and left her seat to walk to an empty space in front of the table. The entire hall was filled with joyous celebration, except for those dressed in starkly contrasting black and white. The twin elders, still as expressionless as moonlight, even took a sip of wine.

Once the female knight-errant reached the empty space in front of the table, Lan Tianpeng noticed that her slender waist was pierced with numerous bright, pale blue silk daggers. These daggers, including the hilts, were no more than four inches long, thick-backed and thin-bladed, appearing extremely sharp; there were at least twenty of them in total. Looking around, the female knight-errant, Zhuo, stood on the central red carpet, cupped her fists towards the assembled heroes, and said humbly, "My meager skills are truly unworthy of display before you all. If I make a mistake, I hope you seniors, heroes, and friends will forgive me." Her words were followed by another round of enthusiastic applause, then a deathly silence, so quiet you could hear a falling leaf.

Zhuo then drew two curved swords, swinging and thrusting them, parrying and pushing as if preparing to fight. Then, with a flick of her body, before anyone could see her move, another sword appeared in mid-air. Just as the curved sword was about to fall, she flicked her hands, and two more curved swords flew out simultaneously—the heroes, seeing Zhuo's skillful technique, couldn't help but shout "Bravo!" in unison.

Immediately afterward, Zhuo spun around, her hands flying, and in the blink of an eye, a flash of sword light, a slender finger mountain appeared! The heroes, seeing this, immediately erupted in a continuous burst of applause and cheers. Amidst the applause of the assembled heroes, the figure of Lady Zhuo vanished into the flash of her sword, the range of which gradually expanded, almost filling a space of two zhang in radius. As the curved blades spun and flew, a hazy pale blue light appeared, like a clear sky, while the blades, under the lights of the hall, flickered like empty, cold stars,

their imposing presence magnificent. Suddenly, the hundreds of people in the hall fell silent, the only sounds the whistling of the flying blades. Just as the heroes held their breath, their eyes fixed on the scene, a curved blade suddenly flew out from the blue light, swift as lightning, heading straight for "Liao Chen's" face. Upon seeing this, everyone trembled, instinctively letting out a cry of alarm.

Liao Chen, engrossed in his observation, was startled by the sudden flash of cold light. He instinctively leaned back, only to hear a sharp crack as the back of his chair shattered against the back of the carved chair. The curved blade, however, flew past the Zen Master Jinghai's table, about a foot in front of Liao Chen, across the right side of Xiao Bawang's forehead, and then spun away to the left.

At the same moment Liao Chen smashed the chair, another curved blade passed over the empty seat of the female warrior, spinning towards the right side of the hall. Thus, everyone overlooked Liao Chen's broken chair. Although the two blades were not thrown at the same time, they flew back almost simultaneously, passing over the heads of the assembled heroes. By the time the heroes' gazes returned to the female warrior, she had already retrieved all the spinning blades.

After putting away the last two curved swords, Lady Zhuo immediately bowed to the crowd and humbly said, "I've made a fool of myself, please don't laugh at me." As soon as she finished speaking, the crowd erupted in enthusiastic applause and cheers. "Golden Dove and Silver Staff," to ease the awkward atmosphere, joined the beggar Ma Wu and the old man in the silk robe in clapping and laughing.

"Liao Chen," his face alternating between red and green, knew Lady Zhuo was deliberately teasing him, but the curved sword had been moved a foot away from his table, now much closer to Zen Master Jing Hai than to him. Thinking of this, he could only accept his bad luck. If they argued, the other party would accuse him of being uncomposed, only drawing more attention and ridicule from the crowd. Seeing Lady Zhuo return to her seat after her elegant display, he wanted to applaud and cheer, but his inner shame and resentment prevented him from displaying such refined manners. After Lady Zhuo returned to her seat, the applause lingered for a long time, but the mutual praise continued unabated.

Lan Tianpeng was no exception. He immediately looked at Ouyang Zi beside him, admiringly whispering, "Lady Zhuo's move 'Blue Sky Soaring Easy' is indeed unparalleled in the martial arts world. Once unleashed, more than ten masters wouldn't be able to get close..."

Before Lan Tianpeng could finish speaking, Ouyang Sheng interrupted lightly, "I'm just afraid she won't be able to unleash it." Lan Tianpeng was startled. He felt that Ouyang Zi's voice was too loud, and he glanced at Lady Zhuo in surprise. Sure enough, she gave Ouyang Zi a sharp look. Ouyang Zi not only didn't apologize, but also nodded slowly to Lady Zhuo and smiled.

Lan Tianpeng felt that Ouyang Zi was being inappropriate, and unconsciously said in a deep voice, "When two people fight, they naturally gradually unleash their ultimate moves and strength..."

Before he could finish speaking, Ouyang Zi smiled calmly, implying a rebuttal, and said, "That's a vulgar way of fighting. Those with superb martial arts skills don't do that."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng's handsome face flushed slightly, and he stubbornly retorted, "How many people truly possess superior martial arts skills?" Ouyang

Zi's gaze remained fixed on Lady Zhuo. Hearing Lan Tianpeng's words, he merely smiled faintly without replying. His demeanor clearly indicated that he, Ouyang Zi, was indeed a person of superior martial arts skills. Seeing this, Lan Tianpeng felt a surge of anger. Although he knew that Ouyang Zi must be someone of great importance, otherwise he wouldn't have been able to scare away "Double-Blade Black Rose" with just a few words, Ouyang Zi's arrogant attitude was truly unbearable. At least, he shouldn't have displayed such an attitude in front of someone who wanted to befriend him.

Just as he was about to say something in a deep voice, he suddenly saw Ouyang Zi looking at Lady Zhuo, seemingly talking to himself, yet also seemingly to Lan Tianpeng, and perhaps also to Lady Zhuo: "If you go through the 'Selection' Palace, break the 'Ding' position, and your sword blooms three plum blossoms, and you thrust the sword straight at someone, even if you don't cut them in half at the waist, you'll still cut off several fingers. This weakness is not insignificant." Lan

Tianpeng subconsciously glanced at Lady Zhuo and found that her elegant face had changed drastically. Although a bead of sweat had appeared on her temples, she still nodded and smiled gratefully at Ouyang Zi. Seeing this, Lan Tianpeng's anger vanished. Clearly, Ouyang Zi had intentionally drawn Lady Zhuo's attention and kindly pointed out her weaknesses. At the same time, he gained a deeper understanding of Ouyang Zi. Not only was she a chivalrous swordsman, but she also seemed to care for him, Lan Tianpeng, with exceptional concern. Before he

could finish his thoughts, a loud voice suddenly rang out from the crowd of heroes, saying happily, "Since Young Master Wu feels his skills are lacking, we, the 'Five Tigers of Xiangnan,' will perform a 'Plum Blossom Formation' to amuse the heroes of the world." Following the sound, Lan

Tianpeng looked and saw five burly men of varying builds, appearances, and ages standing up at a table near the left door. As the five men rose, "Little Tyrant" angrily stood up from his chair, turned to face them, and said in a deep voice, "You say this young master is too incompetent to participate? This young master simply feels that with all the heroes of the world gathered here, I don't want to show off." With that, he angrily left his seat, walked around the table, and headed towards the space in front of the table.

The five men, who called themselves the "Five Tigers of Southern Hunan," immediately gave a cold laugh upon seeing him, saying, "Since you've made your appearance, then we brothers will watch your..."

Lan Tianpeng, unaware of what was happening, glanced at the old man in the head chair and asked, "May I ask

, senior..." Before he could finish, the old man smiled humbly and said, "I dare not accept such praise. Young Valley Master, please speak."

Lan Tianpeng still politely asked, "May I ask what happened just now?"

The old man smiled, a hint of disdain in his voice, and said in a low voice, "Just now, Elder Ma, the Heroic Beggar, wanted Abbot Liao Chen to also perform. Presumably, Liao Chen felt his mind was not yet at peace and was worried about making a move." "To avoid embarrassment, I hope my nephew 'Little Tyrant' will perform a rescue first..."

Before he could finish speaking, "Little Tyrant," already standing on the red velvet carpet in the middle, bowed to the assembled heroes and said in a deep voice, "I am Wu Jinxiong, born with superhuman strength, capable of subduing tigers and dragons. Therefore, I was given the honorific title 'Little Tyrant' by a kind friend. Now, there is neither Hong Ding nor Qing Shi in the hall, so I would like to invite a few friends who consider themselves to be over a hundred in strength to come out and let me lift you and your companions up..."

Before he could finish speaking, the same burly man who had spoken earlier blurted out, "Let my five brothers do it."

"Little Tyrant" angrily said, "Fine." Unfortunately, even with all his strength, "Little Tyrant" could not lift the five people and had to leave the stage embarrassedly. Lan Tianpeng smiled calmly. Seeing Lan Tianpeng smile, "Little Tyrant" felt a surge of old and new grudges, glaring at him and saying, "Boy, you dare come up and try?"

Under these circumstances, it was naturally better for Lan Tianpeng to refuse, especially with so many martial arts heroes watching. Lan Tianpeng couldn't tarnish the reputation of "Cold Fragrance Valley" and his father. Therefore, he smiled faintly, walked to the center of the arena, and without saying a word, neither rolling up his sleeves nor lifting his clothes, squatted down and grasped the foot of the middle man. At the same time, he asked gently, "Are the five of you ready?" The five brothers of Xiangnan Five Tigers gritted their teeth and remained silent, only the eldest nodded, clearly having gathered his full strength.

Lan Tianpeng smiled calmly, suddenly straightened up, and shouted, "Rise—" The word "rise" had barely left his lips when, with a "whoosh," the "Five Tigers of Xiangnan" rose to their feet. Most dangerously, Lan Tianpeng, taking advantage of the "Five Tigers of Xiangnan's" ascent, released his grip on their shins with his right hand. Immediately afterward, with a flick of his right palm, he caught the sole of the boot of the man in the middle—a cry

of "Ouch!" escaped his lips. The lamplight flickered, and the man's head cleverly bumped into a gauze lantern, the scalding oil dripping onto his neck, causing him to scream in pain. The entire hall fell silent for a moment, then erupted in thunderous applause that shook the tiles. The beggar Ma Wu was dumbfounded, Ouyang Zi was stunned, while Gao Lianying jumped for joy, forgetting that she was still a sixteen or seventeen-year-old girl. The "Twin Elders" looked at each other in astonishment, while "Liao Chen" and "Little Tyrant" Wu Jinxiong were already pale with shock.

Lan Tianpeng, carrying the "Five Tigers of Hunan," spun them around in place, then slowly set them down, without panting or blushing, his expression completely composed. Then, he bowed and smiled at the "Five Tigers of Xiangnan," who had already released their arms, saying, "I'm sorry for the grievances of the five leaders. I thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Although the "Five Tigers of Xiangnan" were rough men, they were very pragmatic. They immediately clasped their fists and said with flushed faces, "Young Master's strength is astonishing. We brothers sincerely admire you."

Seeing that the "Five Tigers of Xiangnan" had admitted defeat frankly, the applause among the heroes reached another climax. Lan Tianpeng waved to the heroes and then walked back to their original spot with the "Five Tigers of Xiangnan." Liao Chen thought for a moment and felt that tonight, he and "Little Overlord" had been overshadowed by Lady Zhuo and Lan Tianpeng. Considering that the goal of Kongtong was to dominate the martial arts world, if they couldn't even compare to a young upstart, how could they talk about leading the crowd and dominating the martial arts world?

With this thought in mind, he deliberately gave a cold smile, watching Lan Tianpeng walk back to his original position, and said in a deep voice, "Weightlifting is just a matter of skill and brute force; it's not a real skill or hard work." He then turned to "Little Overlord" and said in a deep voice, "Jin Xiong, hand me your wine cup."

Before he finished speaking, Lan Tianpeng turned back to the center of the red carpet. "Liao Chen" took the wine cup from "Little Overlord" and was stunned to see Lan Tianpeng had returned to the center. The chattering crowd gradually quieted down, their eyes all fixed on Lan Tianpeng, clearly somewhat bewildered. Ouyang Zi and the Beggar's brows furrowed together. Before Lan Tianpeng had fully stood up, he looked at the astonished Gao Lianying and said with a smile and humility, "Miss Gao, please toss me five longevity peaches."

"Golden Dove and Silver Staff" smiled broadly, his expression bewildered, turning back to look at his beloved daughter in confusion. Gao Lianying, already excited, had taken five egg-sized longevity peaches from the offering table, and with a joyful smile, tossed them one by one to Lan Tianpeng! "Liao Chen," seeing this, deliberately wore a contemptuous yet bewildered smile. Lan Tianpeng took the five longevity peaches, bowed slightly, and first said "thank you" to Gao Lianying. Then, facing the assembled heroes, he cupped his hands and said with a smile, "Just now someone said that weightlifting is a kind of skill, not real kung fu. Brother is willing to offer another small skill to entertain all the guests."

He paused, then raised the five longevity peaches in his hand, pointed to the longevity screen, and continued, "Brother now has five longevity peaches to throw at the heads of the five bronze banners on the longevity screen during a duel. As the saying goes, 'Five Blessings Offer Longevity,' but tonight brother will perform his own 'Five Blessings Offer Longevity Peaches.'" Before he could finish speaking, a murmur arose among the heroes in the hall. All eyes turned to the five large banners surrounding the character for "

longevity" on the huge longevity screen behind the offering table. Many laughed upon seeing the banners; among the heroes present were many renowned for their hidden weapons, which, of course, were used in combat. Ouyang Zi and the beggar Ma Wu were secretly anxious, feeling that Lan Tianpeng was too inexperienced in the martial world and didn't know when to stop. They feared he would squander the goodwill he had just earned. Lan Tianpeng knew that Ouyang Zi and the beggar Ma Wu were looking

at him with reproach and anxiety, so he ignored them, cupped his hands towards the assembled heroes, and said, "Which friend would like to step down and exchange a few blows with me?" As soon as he

finished speaking, "Liao Chen" looked at "Little Overlord" with urging eyes, but "Little Overlord," a defeated general, knew his place and hesitated to step forward. Upon seeing this, Gao Lianying, fearing Lan Tianpeng might make a mistake, quickly smiled sweetly and said, "Little sister will spar with Brother Tianpeng for a few moves."

This affectionate address of "Brother Tianpeng" caused the brows of the beggar Ma Wu, Ouyang Zi, and "Double-Blade Black Rose" to furrow. However, just as Gao Lianying was about to enter the arena, "Little Tyrant" shouted, "I'll spar with you!"

With that shout, he leaped across the table and pounced into the arena. Fueled by jealousy and rage, fueled by past grudges, "Little Tyrant" was like a mad tiger, landing in the arena without a word, unleashing a powerful punch, "Mount Tai Pressing Down," striking Lan Tianpeng's crown. Lan Tianpeng, enraged by Liao Chen's arrogant mockery, "Little Tyrant's" lack of self-awareness, and the Kongtong Sect's arrogance, resolved to teach "Little Tyrant" a lesson again, and to curb his arrogance. At this moment, seeing that "Little Tyrant" was using the "Mount Tai Pressing Down" move, it was no different from the "Splitting Mount Hua" move he had used in town, only differing in the strength of the punches. Therefore, as soon as "Little Tyrant" used his move, he coldly smiled and said, "You are not worthy."

As he spoke, he stepped forward and leaned to the side. To guard against "Little Tyrant's" trickery, he circled his left palm, slightly bent his upper body, and just as he grasped "Little Tyrant's" right wrist, "Little Tyrant's" left palm indeed pushed out horizontally! However, Lan Tianpeng, who was already prepared, acted first and took advantage of the situation to extend his left wrist. "Little Tyrant" let out a muffled groan, and his body flew straight towards the outer hall—"Thump!" "Little Tyrant" rushed out of the outer hall. He landed hard on the carpet in the outer hall, but he took advantage of the momentum to do a "lazy donkey roll" and leaped up, running straight out of the hall. However, Lan Tianpeng, who stood in front of the seat in the inner hall, was not out of breath or red-faced, and still held five longevity peaches in his right hand.

Not a single member of the Ying family in the hall uttered applause or cheers. They exchanged bewildered glances. It was truly astonishing that someone of "Little Tyrant's" skill had been thrown out of the inner hall in a single exchange by Lan Tianpeng. "Liao Chen's" old face alternated between pale and flushed, his thick eyebrows twitching, a hidden murderous intent lurking beneath. Just then, the head of the Guo family, dressed in a silk robe, rose slowly with a solemn expression. He nodded slightly towards the end of the long table on the left and walked out.

Upon seeing this, the assembled heroes immediately stirred up a murmur of discussion and commotion. Everyone's expression revealed a hint of tension, and many looked anxiously at Lan Tianpeng, who was still looking out of the hall. The beggar hero Ma Wu was secretly startled upon seeing this and hurriedly whispered to stop him, "Head of the Guo family..." Before he could finish speaking, Lan Tianpeng turned around at the sound of his voice. Seeing that the head of the Guo family had left his seat, his starry eyes lit up and he couldn't help but smile.

Upon seeing him, the beggar Ma Wu immediately spoke with a veiled warning, introducing him with a smile: "Tianpeng, this old hero Guo is the head of the three halls of the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society,' known as 'Double Palms Shake the Universe.' You should get to know him better."

Lan Tianpeng, upon hearing this, immediately smiled and bowed to the approaching "Double Palms Shake the Universe" headmaster Guo, saying with a smile: "So Headmaster Guo is from the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society.' That's wonderful. Last night, I had a minor disagreement with your society, but let's not discuss that now..." Before he could finish speaking, the smiles on the faces of the beggar Ma Wu, Ouyang Zi, and "Double Palms Shake the Universe" vanished.

The assembled heroes were even more shocked, for this young valley master, barely twenty years old, had seemingly only recently entered the martial arts world, yet had already established two of the most powerful and largest rivals—the "Dragon and Phoenix Society" and the Kongtong Sect. Even the usually cheerful and excited Gao Lianying was stunned, replaced by shock and anxiety.

"Double Palms Shake the Universe" forced a smile and clasped his hands in a fist salute, saying, "This old man is only here to assist Young Master Lan in performing 'Five Blessings Offering Longevity Peaches.' As for the grudge between Young Master Lan and our organization, we'll discuss that after we leave Gao Family Tower."

Lan Tianpeng readily agreed, saying humbly, "Then please, Grand Master, make your move."

"Double Palms Shake the Universe" didn't say much. He shouted, "Young Master Lan, prepare!" With that shout, he sprang forward, his right palm striking with "Waves Lapping the Shore," and his left palm with "Plucking Peaches from Under the Leaves"—two moves in one, swift as lightning, creating a gust of hidden force that struck Lan Tianpeng. As the saying goes, "A master's skill is revealed in a single move." This was indeed true; "Double Palms Shake the Universe's" palm strikes were powerful and swift, seemingly slow but actually incredibly fast.

Lan Tianpeng, recognizing a formidable opponent, dared not be careless. He deftly shifted his stance, dodging the powerful palm strike, and then unleashed a move called "Upper and Lower Interlocking Strike," using only his left palm to lightning-fast strike Guo Zongtang's "Slapping the Shore" palm first, then pinching the opponent's "Peach Picking" fingers. Upon seeing this "Upper and Lower Interlocking Strike," "Double Palms Shake the Universe" paled, but he was a seasoned veteran, a veteran of countless battles, and as the head of the "Dragon and Phoenix Society," he couldn't possibly be defeated by a young man's single palm strike. What face would he have left in the "Dragon and Phoenix Society" if word got out?

"Double Palms Shake the Universe," disregarding fame and fortune, immediately shouted, "Well done!"

With that shout, he withdrew his palms, changed tactics, and launched a relentless attack, his palms moving like a sudden thunderstorm! Lan Tianpeng remained calm and composed, following the palm technique secretly taught to him by his master, the middle-aged man in yellow. Holding five longevity peaches in his right hand, he used only his left palm to strike, cut, chop, strike, slice, pinch, hook, and grab. The moment the two clashed, the wind howled, and the force was overwhelming.

Every move seemed ruthless and vicious, with no trace of performance. The hundreds of heroes in the hall held their breath, their eyes wide, especially as the surging palm winds caused the gauze lanterns to sway and the candlelight to flicker, making the spectacle even more terrifying. "Golden Dove and Silver Staff," having angered "Little Tyrant" and caused him to agree to perform for her birthday, deeply regretted not listening to Lady Zhuo's advice. Seeing "Double Palms Shaking the Universe" Master Guo launching a fierce and dangerous attack, she grew anxious and repeatedly tried to call out to stop him. However, her beloved daughter, Gao Lianying, watched with a mixture of surprise and amusement, her earlier shock and panic completely gone. Although the beggar Ma Wu watched intently, his mood seemed relatively calm, but Ouyang Zi's expression grew increasingly solemn.

"Liao Chen" shifted his gaze, feeling uneasy, while Zen Master "Jing Hai" was already moved. Only the "Twin Elders" remained expressionless, their eyes coldly fixed on the scene. Just then, Lan Tianpeng, amidst the fierce fighting, shouted, "Hero Guo, be careful!" As soon as

Lan Tianpeng uttered the word "Liao," he leaped diagonally towards the outer hall. Simultaneously, he raised his right hand, sending five longevity peaches, shaped like regret flowers, flying out towards "Double Palms Shake the Universe's" face. "Double Palms Shake the Universe" Master Guo, alerted by Lan Tianpeng's shout, immediately realized his mission. Seeing the longevity peaches coming at him, he swiftly performed the "Iron Bridge" move.

Just as "Double Palms Shake the Universe" fell backward, the five longevity peaches, carrying a gust of wind, flew past his face, shooting straight towards the tall longevity screen. Upon seeing this, the heroes realized that Lan Tianpeng had not yet thrown out the longevity peaches. However, just as the hundreds of heroes were thinking about it, a loud "thud" rang out, and five loaves of bread were nailed squarely to the top of the five carved-out loaves of bread.

The assembled heroes, who had initially assumed the attacks were one by one, suddenly realized that the five peaches had been thrown simultaneously. What truly shocked everyone was that the five peaches were deeply embedded in the heads of the carved wooden panels without falling off. At that moment, the air in the entire hall seemed to freeze, and even the "Double Palms Shake the Universe" Master Guo, who was watching the five peaches, was stunned.

The beggar hero Ma Wu wore a smile of astonishment; he secretly rejoiced that his old friend had such a son, that revenge was still possible, and he could die with a smile on his face. Among the hundreds of heroes in the hall, most wore expressions of astonishment and shock mixed with admiration. Only Ouyang Zi, sitting at the table, was deathly pale, cold sweat beading on his beard, his sharp eyes fixed on the five peaches on the screen.

Seeing the scene unfolding in the hall, Lan Tianpeng quickly smiled humbly and said, "I've made a fool of myself, please don't laugh." His words immediately broke the deathly silence, and the assembled heroes erupted in thunderous applause and cheers.

"Double Palms Shake the Universe" also seized the opportunity to clasp his hands in praise of Lan Tianpeng, saying, "Young Master, your skill and bravery are truly admirable; I am filled with utmost respect." With that, he turned and returned to his original position amidst Lan Tianpeng's humble words.

Touched by the prolonged applause, Lan Tianpeng could only return the compliment with a raised fist and a smile. At this moment, the old gentleman who had been announcing the ceremony, having already received a hint from "Golden Dove and Silver Staff," announced loudly, "Friends, the performance has come to an end. Let us offer a final toast to the venerable elder, and then you may all enjoy yourselves. After the banquet, those who have traveled from afar are requested to stay overnight." Thus, the heroes toasted the venerable elder again and began a chaotic drinking game.

The young girl, Gao Lianying, had already squeezed to Lan Tianpeng and Ouyang Zi's side, smiling as she said, "My mother told me to ask Brother Tianpeng, Young Hero Ouyang, and Uncle Wu to stay a couple more days."

Lan Tianpeng initially wanted to decline, as he had important matters to attend to, but the beggar beside him readily agreed, "Alright, then Tianpeng and I will trouble you for two more days. And what about Young Hero Ouyang…?"

Upon hearing the beggar's agreement, Ouyang Zi replied without hesitation, "Then I won't stand on ceremony, thank you."

Hearing that Lan Tianpeng was staying, Gao Lianying beamed with joy, "That's wonderful! I'll tell my mother right away." With that, she happily departed. Originally, Lan Tianpeng had many things to tell the beggar, but unexpectedly, the beggar, bombarded by the group of heroes, had become drunk, so Lan Tianpeng had to give up.

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