Cold Fragrance Valley [Complete] - 5

In Chapter Five, the martial arts family

had just mentioned the wooden fish, intending to go and smell it, when "Iron-Armed Monk" heard Lan Tianpeng's loud shout. He was startled and unconsciously looked up at the handsome young man in yellow on horseback. However, when he looked up, he found that the young man in yellow and the girl in red with the gold and silver swords on her back were staring at the crowd in surprise. "Iron-Armed Monk" followed their gaze and then saw that Lan Tianpeng's face was full of murderous intent, his eyes were like lightning, and he was staring at him without blinking. Seeing this, the arrogant "Iron-Armed Monk," who had just suffered a setback, was instantly enraged and angrily asked, "Is it you, young man, who stopped me, Buddha?"

Lan Tianpeng nodded proudly and said, "That's right, it's young master. I only ask you, do you know the two thieves, Dui?"

"Iron-Armed Monk" sneered and said loudly, "There are many brothers with the surname Dui. I don't know which two you're asking about."

Seeing that "Iron-Armed Monk" was pretending not to know, Lan Tianpeng angrily said, "It's those two thieves, Dui Baoxiong and Dui Renxiong."

"Iron-Armed Monk" angrily said, "You brat, you're asking a question you already know the answer to."

Lan Tianpeng immediately retorted angrily, "The two thieves, Dui, are villains you trained. I'm only asking based on hearsay. To verify the truth and avoid harming the innocent, how can you say I'm asking a question I already know the answer to?"

Upon hearing this, "Iron-Armed Monk" laughed arrogantly and said, "My two unworthy disciples have indeed caused a lot of trouble outside. What grudge do you have with them? Just tell me, and I'll forgive them all."

Thinking of his destroyed home and murdered father, Lan Tianpeng's eyes blazed with fury, and he shouted, "They killed my father and destroyed my home..."

"Iron-Armed Monk" immediately retorted arrogantly, "So you also want to kill me to vent your hatred?"

Lan Tianpeng gritted his teeth without hesitation and said hatefully, "That's right, I'm going to kill you, you wicked and disgraceful Buddhist disciple, and I'm not afraid the two traitors will come looking for me."

"Iron-Armed Monk" glanced at the yellow-clad youth on horseback, seemingly hesitant. He tossed his head towards Lan Tianpeng and said in a deep voice, "Let's go, let's fight outside the city."

Lan Tianpeng immediately replied in a deep voice, "Very well, I'll gladly face any challenge, from the mountains of knives to the boiling oil, even the Hall of Hell." Just as he was about to take a step, the handsome yellow-clad youth on horseback pointed to the south side of the street and said leisurely, "Wait, there's a ready-made open space over there. Why must we go outside the city?"

Lan Tianpeng and "Iron-Armed Monk" followed his direction and saw that the crowd watching the commotion on the south side was quickly clearing away. Sure enough, there was a flat open space about seven or eight zhang in diameter. However, at the heart of this open space was the gate of the "Dragon and Phoenix Society's" branch. Four burly men stood proudly at the gate, all dressed in gray tight-fitting clothes with wide black velvet trim. Their eight piercing eyes were also fixed on this direction. "Iron-Armed Monk" seemed wary of the "Dragon and Phoenix Society," so he looked at the handsome young man in yellow and said in a deep voice, "Someone is interfering, but are you going to take responsibility?"

Upon being asked, the handsome young man in yellow immediately replied seriously, "What's wrong with a little martial arts competition, a test of skills, in the open space in front of their 'Dragon and Phoenix Society'?" Having said that, he pointed to the open space with his gilded folding fan and continued, "You can go and fight over there; I'll handle anything that happens."

"Iron-Armed Monk" gritted his teeth and resolutely agreed, carrying his iron wooden fish, and led the way towards the open space. A commotion erupted from the crowd of onlookers, and like a tidal wave, they surged forward, pushing Lan Tianpeng and "Iron-Armed Monk" towards the open space. The young man in yellow and the girl in red on horseback also followed. Four burly men in gray, standing proudly beneath the tall gate tower, one of them shouted, "Hey, what are you doing? Go back!"

As he spoke, he strode down the steps with an imposing air. For some reason, the burly man who had just reached the bottom of the steps suddenly changed his expression, looking utterly horrified, and stood frozen in place, stunned! Lan Tianpeng initially thought the burly man was just shocked by the "Iron-Armed Monk's" iron wooden fish, but he noticed that the burly man's shocked gaze was directed from his head to behind him. Turning around, he saw the handsome young man in yellow robes on his yellow horse behind him, who, apart from having unfolded his gilded pleated fan and slowly fanning himself in front of his chest, showed no other unusual behavior.

Looking at the red-clad girl with gold and silver swords strapped to her back, she gripped the reins in her left hand, riding slowly, her gaze fixed on the stunned burly man at the bottom of the steps. Although she noticed Lan Tianpeng turning around to look at her, she pretended not to see him. Turning back to look at the burly man at the bottom of the steps, in that instant, he had already returned to the foot of the steps, but judging from the shocked and submissive expressions of the four burly men, there must be a prominent figure from the "Dragon and Phoenix Society" among them.

With a formidable enemy at hand, Lan Tianpeng was unwilling to be overly distracted by judging the situation, but he was certain it wasn't "Flying Fork Three Geese," but most likely "Golden Thread Shadowless" herself, who had tracked him here the previous night. Then, upon further reflection, he felt something was amiss. It was said that "Golden Thread Shadowless" always concealed her face with a golden cloak, never revealing her true features. Even those at the main altar had never seen her true face. How could these few brothers from the outlying county branches, who were guarding her gates, recognize her at first glance? Before he could finish his thought, he had already arrived at the center of the open space.

"Iron-Armed Monk" stopped in his tracks, glaring at Lan Tianpeng and angrily saying, "Let's cut to the chase and get to the point."

Lan Tianpeng sneered, "Young Master has never carried a weapon in his travels..."

"Iron-Armed Monk" perked up at this, then suddenly asked in a deep voice, "You dare to challenge me to a palm strike?"

Lan Tianpeng immediately said with disgust, "That's a pointless question."

Upon hearing this, "Iron-Armed Monk" laughed arrogantly, "I've roamed the martial world my whole life, and few have dared to challenge me."

Lan Tianpeng wished he could kill "Iron-Armed Monk" with a single blow, so before the other could finish speaking, he immediately shouted, "Enough talk, Young Master is about to strike!" As soon as the word "strike" left his lips, he leaped forward, one palm striking the other's shoulders and face, the other striking his ribs and abdomen. One move, two techniques, six variations in total, as fast as lightning, with the palms arriving first.

The handsome young man in yellow was stunned, his gilded fan, which he had been slowly waving, stopped in front of his chest. "Iron-Armed Monk" was even more startled. Because Lan Tianpeng's palm strikes were incredibly fast and unpredictable, he had no time to discard the iron wooden fish in his hand. Startled, he panicked and frantically swung the iron wooden fish, sending it hurtling towards Lan Tianpeng's palms.

Lan Tianpeng, already intent on killing, didn't change his stance despite seeing the iron wooden fish coming at him. He struck at the fish, simultaneously unleashing a burst of hidden force from both palms—with a loud thud and a muffled groan, "Iron-Armed Monk's" large body staggered, and with a loud thud, the iron wooden fish fell to the ground. "Iron-Armed Monk" staggered backward.

Lan Tianpeng wasn't about to give up. He roared, "You villain, prepare to die!" With that shout, he advanced, his right palm slashing horizontally, then suddenly slashing down.

The retreating "Iron-Armed Monk" was now panicked and pale. In his haste, he unleashed a move called "Closing the Door to Reject the Buddha," pushing out both palms simultaneously—but at the same moment, Lan Tianpeng's right palm suddenly rose and struck down with lightning speed. The "Iron-Armed Monk" hadn't expected Lan Tianpeng's change of attack to be so swift; upon seeing it, he was terrified. In a panic, he shouted and fiercely swung his right arm to block.

Upon contact, a "crack" sounded, blood splattered, and the "Iron-Armed Monk" screamed, flying back three zhang (approximately 10 meters). The crowd gasped in shock; the "Iron-Armed Monk," whose "Iron Arm" was renowned throughout the martial world, had his right arm severed by Lan Tianpeng's palm strike. Lan Tianpeng's eyebrows shot up, his eyes turned bloodshot, and with a fierce shout, he gave chase. Just as Lan Tianpeng lunged forward, a clear voice suddenly rang out behind him: "Young Master Lan, please stop!" The word "stop" had barely left his lips when a flash of yellow robes appeared before him, and a handsome young man in yellow robes on horseback stood blocking Lan Tianpeng's path.

Lan Tianpeng had already halted his advance upon hearing the voice, and froze on the spot, his bright eyes fixed on the handsome young man's face. It wasn't the young man's voice—which was as clear as Ouyang Zi's and his lightning-fast agility—that bothered him; rather, it was how the other knew he was "Young Master Lan"?

The handsome young man in yellow, under Lan Tianpeng's piercing gaze, couldn't help but blush slightly. He quickly cupped his hands and smiled, saying, "Young Master Lan, please calm down. It's not that I'm interfering with your revenge for your father's murder and the destruction of your manor, but rather that every grievance has its source, and every debt its debtor. In other words, your father didn't die at the hands of 'Iron-Armed Monk.' You've already severed his right arm, which has taught him a lesson for his lack of proper instruction. I hope you'll spare him for my sake."

Lan Tianpeng thought for a moment and felt that there was some truth to this, so he clasped his hands in a humble manner and said, "Since you have spoken up for me, I will obey. But I have a question..."

The handsome young man in yellow repeatedly said he dared not, and finally asked, "What does Young Master Lan have to say? Please speak to me directly. I will tell you what I know."

Lan Tianpeng hesitated for a moment and asked, "What confuses me is how you know my surname is Lan?"

The handsome young man in yellow laughed heartily and answered irrelevantly, "I will discuss this matter with Young Master Lan later." After saying that, he turned around and looked at the "Iron-Armed Monk" who was in so much pain that his teeth were clenched and cold sweat was pouring down his face. He asked in a deep voice, "Young Master Lan has spared your life for my sake. I hope that you will repent and sincerely serve the Buddha in the future. If you do evil again, you will not be able to live if you encounter Young Master Lan and me again."

"Iron-Armed Monk" snorted hatefully, glaring at the handsome young man in yellow, and said through gritted teeth, "Hmph, I will repay your life-saving grace, and I will avenge the Lan family's severed arm tenfold. We'll meet again someday. I'm leaving." With that, he turned and walked into the crowd, abandoning even the iron wooden fish he had left behind. "Iron-Armed Monk" was covered in blood and looked frightening. Before he even reached the onlookers, they had already made way for him.

Lan Tianpeng, seeing this, looked at the handsome young man in yellow and said, "Although you saved his life, I'm afraid you can't change his evil ways."

The handsome young man in yellow smiled faintly and said, "It's fine to have him go find the Dui brothers on behalf of the young master. The next time the young master encounters 'Iron-Armed Monk,' that will be your chance for revenge. "

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng asked with concern, "What do you mean...?" Before he could finish, the handsome young man in yellow smiled and changed the subject, saying, "This is not the place to talk. Let's find a quiet place to discuss this further." Lan

Tianpeng already knew the unpredictable nature of the martial world and thus intended to refuse, but he also wanted to know how the handsome young man in yellow knew his background. While he hesitated, the handsome young man in yellow pointed with his gilded folding fan to a luxurious restaurant on the north side of East Street, smiling warmly and saying, "Come, let's go to 'Yingbinxuan' over there for a drink and a chat." He then immediately gestured for

Lan Tianpeng to proceed. At this point, Lan Tianpeng could only nod humbly and walk forward. He had already witnessed the handsome young man in yellow's refined internal strength. The small, gilded folding fan in the young man's hand was naturally his weapon. As the saying goes, "A short weapon is extremely dangerous." Someone who could wield such a small weapon must have reached the pinnacle of lightness skill, internal strength, and magical fan techniques. However, he was also confident that as long as he was cautious and careful in everything he did, he wouldn't make a mistake.

His mind raced, and he looked again. Most of the onlookers had dispersed, but the area in front of the temple was still bustling with people, noisy and lively, as if most were unaware of what was happening. Looking again at the girl in red leading the horse, Lan Tianpeng's brows furrowed slightly. He had just heard the handsome young man in yellow personally refer to the girl in red as his "humble wife" to "Iron-Armed Monk," but based on the girl's respectful manner as she led the young man's horse, Lan Tianpeng thought she resembled his maid. Lan Tianpeng smiled coldly to himself, convinced the young man in yellow was a lecherous man. In an instant, he was in front of the girl in red leading the horse.

The handsome young man in yellow immediately looked at the girl in red and said with a smile, "Pingmei, come quickly and greet Young Master Lan."

The girl in red immediately bowed and said with a smile, "This humble woman is Jin Yuping, greetings to Young Master Lan."

Lan Tianpeng was about to return the bow when the handsome young man in yellow introduced her with a smile, "Speaking of your wife's name, Young Master Lan may not know..."

But Lan Tianpeng said with a serious smile, "To be honest, I have heard my old servant Lan Fu mention your wife's name, but I cannot recall it at the moment."

The handsome young man in yellow gave a mysterious "oh," and then asked with a smile, "Have you ever heard of the 'Golden and Silver Twin Swords'?"

Lan Tianpeng frowned and pondered, muttering to himself, "Golden and silver swords... golden and silver... swords... swords..." Seeing Lan Tianpeng's earnest thought, the handsome young man in yellow exchanged a knowing glance with the girl in red. Lan

Tianpeng's eyes lit up, and he suddenly looked at the handsome young man in yellow and the girl in red, excitedly saying, "I remember now... 'Twin Swords Fluttering Red' Jin Yuping... Your wife is 'Twin Swords Fluttering Red'..." Upon hearing this, the girl in red smiled shyly and nodded repeatedly. The

handsome young man in yellow laughed heartily, praising, "Young Master Lan, you truly live up to your martial arts family background! You were right; my wife was indeed 'Twin Swords Fluttering Red,' though it has now been changed to 'Golden and Silver Swords.'" Lan Tianpeng ,

lacking experience in handling affairs, upon hearing the name changed to "Golden and Silver Twin Swords," unconsciously remarked, "How much better would 'Twin Swords Fluttering Red' be? It would have both a chivalrous name and an elegant connotation, immediately conveying the unparalleled lightness skill of your wife. Changing it to 'Golden and Silver Twin Heroes' makes the 'golden'

and 'silver' sound rather vulgar, especially in today's martial arts world..." Before Lan Tianpeng could finish speaking, the handsome young man in yellow laughed and said, "Young Master Lan's comment is quite right. From now on, my wife can continue to use the old name 'Twin Swords Fluttering Red.'" Seeing that the other party had changed his nickname with just one sentence, Lan Tianpeng suddenly realized his overly bluntness. Before he could explain, the handsome young man in yellow walked alongside him, while the red-clad girl, "Twin Swords Fluttering Red," followed behind, pulling two horses sideways.

Upon arriving at the "Welcoming Pavilion" restaurant, Lan Tianpeng saw "Twin Swords Fluttering Red" handing the horses to the waiter who was soliciting business, and had no choice but to stop and wait. Since the girl in red was known throughout the land as "Twin Swords in Red," renowned for her swordsmanship and agility, Lan Tianpeng was already convinced they were a real couple. Although the handsome young man in yellow was somewhat arrogant towards his wife, she seemed content with it, so what right did others have to object?

After handing the horse to the waiter, "Twin Swords in Red" smiled and gracefully approached. The three of them entered the restaurant and found only three or four scattered customers. Lan Tianpeng realized it was still early before their mealtime. He then thought this was a perfect opportunity to find out more about the handsome young man in yellow; too many people would overhear. Before he knew it, the waiter had led them to a brightly lit table by a large window overlooking the street, offering a clear view of the bustling activity below.

The three bartenders, once seated, immediately smiled obsequiously at Lan Tianpeng and the handsome young man in yellow, asking, "Sir, what would you like to drink?"

However, the handsome young man in yellow didn't answer. Instead, "Double Swords in Red" replied, "Bring us your best wine and your specialty dishes." "

Double Swords in Red" finished speaking and gave the handsome young man in yellow a questioning look. Lan Tianpeng noticed this and felt something was off about the couple, though he couldn't quite put his finger on it. Just then, sound came from the stairs, and someone else came up. Lan Tianpeng turned his head, his eyes lighting up. It was another handsome young man dressed in blue, his head tied with a sky-blue scholar's cap, followed by an elderly man with white hair in light gray clothes.

The young man in blue possessed a unique and captivating beauty, in no way inferior to Ouyang Zi and the handsome young man in yellow, while the elderly man behind him was short in stature but had sharp eyes, clearly indicating a master-servant relationship. The master and servant went upstairs and, guided by the bartender, sat down by another large window behind the handsome young man in yellow. Both of them deliberately glanced at Lan Tianpeng.

Lan Tianpeng was startled and immediately became alert. He hadn't expected there to be so many handsome young men like Zidu in the world. Looking up again, he noticed that the young man in blue also held a small, gilded folding fan, clearly his weapon. While observing, he secretly glanced at the handsome young man in yellow and discovered that he looked very serious and was exchanging glances with the girl in red.

Seeing this, Lan Tianpeng was shocked and concluded that the young man in blue must be a famous figure in the martial arts world and someone he knew before. So, on a sudden impulse, he looked at the handsome young man in yellow, bowed and asked, "I have known you for half a day, but I still do not know your honorable name and where you are from."

The handsome young man in yellow composed himself, bowed and smiled and said, "My name is Bai Yufu, and I have lived in Hangzhou by West Lake for generations."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately exclaimed excitedly, "West Lake is a wonderful place! I've long yearned to visit it, and I'll certainly make the trip when I have the chance!" As he spoke, he noticed the handsome young man in blue across from him smiling broadly and turning to look out the window. Lan Tianpeng observed this and concluded that the handsome young man in yellow wasn't entirely telling the truth.

However, the handsome young man in yellow, Bai Yufu, said with feigned seriousness, "Young Master Lan is always welcome to grace my humble abode." As he spoke, the waiters brought in the food and drinks. Lan Tianpeng took the opportunity to secretly observe the handsome young man in yellow, Bai Yufu, and "Double Swords in Red," whose expressions differed. Bai Yufu's brows betrayed a hint of annoyance, while "Double Swords in Red" seemed wary of the handsome young man in blue.

Seeing this, Lan Tianpeng became even more convinced that the handsome young man in blue was a person of great importance; otherwise, the renowned "Double Swords in Red" would never have shown such anxiety. Driven by this thought, Lan Tianpeng saw this as a golden opportunity to uncover Bai Yufu's background. So, after Bai Yufu invited him to drink, he immediately cupped his hands in a smile and asked, "Young Master Bai, how do you know my name is Lan Tianpeng and that I live in Lengxiang Valley?"

Bai Yufu forced a smile and said, "We had a banquet together last night, how could I not know?"

Lan Tianpeng was startled and blurted out, "Young Master Bai, are you referring to the 'Golden Dove and Silver Staff' birthday banquet?"

Bai Yufu nodded and smiled, saying, "It was at Lady Liu's house."

Lan Tianpeng pressed further, "With your wife?"

Bai Yufu quickly explained, "No, just me." He then immediately raised his cup to urge him to drink. After

Lan Tianpeng finished drinking and put down his cup, he persisted, asking, "Why didn't I see Young Master Bai?"

Bai Yufu laughed heartily and said, "Young Master Lan is a lord of this region, occupying a special seat. I am but a humble guest, and can only sit in a corner of the hall. Naturally, Young Master Lan will not see me." Hearing

this, Lan Tianpeng felt embarrassed, but he still had doubts about Bai Yufu's words. The Ouyang family was not a famous martial arts family, and Uncle Ma, the beggar, was unaware of the Ouyang family in Tiantai. Now that he had met Bai Yufu, he might as well ask the couple; perhaps he could glean some information. Thinking of Fang Hua, he was about to say something when Bai Yufu and his wife began urging him to drink again, and took the opportunity to ask, "When did Young Master Lan arrive here?" Lan

Tianpeng figured that since Bai Yufu had attended the "Golden Dove and Silver Staff" birthday banquet, he must know the circumstances of Bai Yufu's departure. So he had to be honest and say, "I arrived here last night. When did you arrive, Young Hero Bai?"

Bai Yufu replied without hesitation, "My wife and I just arrived when we met in front of the temple." As

soon as he finished speaking, he heard the blue-robed youth by the opposite window say, "Uncle Yan, there are many wonderful and mysterious martial arts in the martial arts world now. Have you ever heard of a person being able to appear in two places at the same time?"

Lan Tianpeng's heart skipped a beat, and he immediately looked in the direction of the voice. He found that the handsome young man in blue was also looking at him with disdain, while the old man in gray sitting at the corner of the table was respectfully saying, "This old servant has never heard of such a thing."

Lan Tianpeng glanced at Bai Yufu again. The man was raising his cup to drink. Although he looked calm, there was clearly a murderous aura between his brows. A thought struck him, and he immediately smiled and said, "Last night, I left Gao Family Mansion and went to Lüzu Temple..."

The words "Lüzu Temple" had barely left his lips when the blue-robed youth's gaze flashed like lightning. Bai Yufu and "Double Swords in Red" also changed their expressions simultaneously. Bai Pingfu immediately interrupted, saying, "It's best not to discuss Buddhist matters while drinking and eating meat."

Lan Tianpeng had already noticed the blue-robed youth's flashing gaze and the gray-robed old man's stare. Seeing the change in expression from Bai Yufu and "Double Swords in Red," he concluded that the handsome blue-robed youth sitting opposite him must be someone with ties to the Kongtong Sect. However, he was certain that Bai Yufu knew the blue-robed youth's background, and he was also certain that the blue-robed youth had seen Bai Yufu and his wife in the city last night. Based on their comparisons, Bai Yufu hadn't gone to Gao Family Mansion at all last night. As for how he knew Lan Tianpeng had been sitting in the special seat, that remained a mystery! Then, a thought struck him, and he deliberately smiled and said, "Last night, I didn't enter the Lüzu Temple, but I encountered a strange thing."

Bai Yunan forced a smile and said, "In restaurants and teahouses, there are many people and many noises. Most shrewd people don't talk about other people's business."

Lan Tianpeng deliberately became serious and said, "It's alright. No one dares to offend this person. She is none other than the famous female leader of the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society,' 'Golden Thread Shadowless.'"

Upon hearing this, the handsome young man in blue and the old man in gray opposite him indeed stopped drinking. Bai Yufu, upon hearing this, showed a helpless expression on his handsome face and had to nod. Since Lan Tianpeng knew that the handsome young man in blue was probably from the Kongtong Sect, he naturally didn't want to be too explicit, so he said vaguely, "Last night, I met this female leader on a riverbank..."

Bai Yufu seemed eager to change the subject, so he took the opportunity to interject and asked, "Oh, if you hadn't mentioned it, I would have forgotten. Didn't Elder Ma, the 'Heroic Beggar,' leave Gao Family Tower with you?" "Why can't I see him now?"

Lan Tianpeng was puzzled again upon hearing this. From Bai Yufu's question, it seemed that he had indeed attended the "Golden Dove and Silver Staff" banquet, but he quickly replied, "Uncle Ma and I did leave Gao Family Tower together, but when we were chasing 'Golden Thread Without Shadow,' Uncle Ma Wu couldn't catch up. So I went out on the street today hoping to run into him."

Upon hearing this, Bai Yufu quickly smiled apologetically and said, "I see. I almost ruined the young master's important matter." As he spoke, he hurriedly stood up and continued, "Now is the lively time, and I am also about to pay my respects to Senior Ma. Let's take this opportunity to go find Senior Ma." Lan

Tianpeng knew Bai Yufu intended to take the opportunity to leave, but he deliberately gestured for Bai Yufu and "Double Swords Piaohong" to sit down, saying with a smile, "Please sit, you two. If you go looking for him now, Uncle Ma Wu might have already gone. We've already arranged a meeting place; he'll be waiting for me there."

Upon hearing this, Bai Yufu and "Double Swords Piaohong" exchanged a glance and had no choice but to sit down again. Lan Tianpeng then lowered his voice with a different intention and asked, "Young Master Bai, have you ever met that highly skilled female leader?"

Bai Yufu slightly furrowed his brow and asked instead of answering, "Young Master, are you referring to 'Golden Thread Without Shadow'?"

Lan Tianpeng said seriously, "Of course it's her."

Bai Yufu shook his head hesitantly and said, "I have never met Jin Xianwuying herself, but I do know a few of her capable assistants..." While

Bai Yufu was speaking, Lan Tianpeng had secretly observed the expression of the handsome young man in blue opposite him and found that he and the old man in gray were also paying attention in secret, while "Double Swords Piao Hong" looked nervous. When he heard that Bai Yufu knew a high-ranking figure in the "Dragon and Phoenix Society", he couldn't help but ask, "Young Master Bai, have you heard your friends talk about Jin Xianwuying's appearance and surname?"

Bai Yufu shook his head without hesitation and said, "I asked, and it seems that none of them have seen her. I think even if they have, they probably wouldn't dare to say." Before he could finish speaking, "Twin Swords in Red" couldn't help but nervously say, "You guys should drink up, or maybe we shouldn't talk about other people's business."

Bai Yufu seemed not to have heard "Twin Swords in Red's" words, but asked in a puzzled tone, "Eh? Young Master Lan, why are you so concerned about 'Golden Thread Without Shadow's' appearance?" Upon hearing

this question, not only did "Twin Swords in Red" pay close attention, but the handsome young man in blue and the old man in gray also stopped drinking, showing their great concern. Lan Tianpeng smiled faintly and said, "I find it strange that she might have some unspeakable secret, but I dare say..."

Bai Yufu immediately asked anxiously, "What do you dare say?"

Lan Tianpeng snorted contemptuously and said, "I dare say that if she's not a scarred and pockmarked girl, she's a dark and ugly old woman..."

Before he could finish speaking, not only was "Double Swords Fluttering Red" terrified, her face changing drastically, but the handsome young man in blue and the old man in gray at the opposite table were also stunned. It should be known that the most powerful and influential gang at present is the "Dragon and Phoenix Society" of Kuocang Mountain, whose influence extends throughout the north and south of the Yangtze River. Even within the city itself, there is a branch of the "Dragon and Phoenix Society."

Unexpectedly, Bai Yufu laughed heartily upon hearing this, lightly tapping the table with his finger, echoing Lan Tianpeng's thoughts, "Yes, yes, what Young Master Lan imagined is exactly what I had already anticipated. Great minds think alike. Why don't we join hands and go to Kuocang Mountain to challenge Jin Xian Wuying face-to-face, forcing her to remove her golden cloak and see if she's an ugly old woman or a beautiful girl?"

Lan Tianpeng's spirits lifted upon hearing this, and he suddenly tapped the table, saying, "Alright, let's decide on that. I already experienced her lightness skill last night."

Before he finished speaking, "Double Swords Piao Hong" asked anxiously, "What was the result?"

Without hesitation, Lan Tianpeng replied, "She's experienced and more cunning than me, but her internal strength and lightness skill are inferior to mine."

"Double Swords Piao Hong" immediately asked in a cautionary tone, "How is her swordsmanship?" Upon hearing about swordsmanship, Lan Tianpeng's interest was immediately dampened. He knew in his heart that he had absolutely no chance of winning with weapons.

However, Bai Yufu, standing to the side, urged, "Her swordsmanship is indeed exquisite, but can she really fight someone unarmed with a sword? Besides, when that time comes, I will naturally take over."

Lan Tianpeng thought of swordsmanship and immediately thought of the trip to Tiantai. Therefore, before Bai Yufu could finish speaking, he firmly shook his head and said, "No, uncovering the true face of the female leader of the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society' is a decision I have already made up my mind. I do not wish to work with others to accomplish this."

Bai Yufu immediately asked with concern, "When does Young Master Lan plan to go to Kuocang? I would like to go and broaden my horizons to witness this rare and magnificent duel." He paused, then suddenly added, "Young Master Lan, please rest assured, I will not interfere unless I have your permission."

Unexpectedly, Lan Tianpeng resolutely shook his head and said, "No, I am not sure when to go. Let's talk about this later." Having said that, he stood up, then suddenly cupped his hands and said, "I have urgent business to attend to and must depart immediately. It is

a pleasure to meet you both..." Before he could finish, Bai Yufu and "Double Swords in Red" stood up simultaneously. Bai Yufu urged him to stay, saying, "Young Master Lan, why must you leave so hastily? You should know that the most lively part of the welcoming ceremony is on the lake south of the city. Although it is still early, it is already quite lively..."

Lan Tianpeng immediately interjected, "I am in a hurry to leave and have no desire to go boating on the lake..."

Bai Yufu insisted, "Such a lively occasion is said to occur only once every sixty years. If Young Master Lan misses this opportunity, you will have to wait until you are nearly eighty to see it again. Such an opportunity must not be missed!"

As he spoke, the sharp-eyed waiter had already approached with a smile. Upon seeing him, Bai Yufu immediately gestured to "Double Swords in Red," saying, "Pingmei, settle the bill here. Young Master Lan and I will proceed first." Having said this, he then bowed respectfully to Lan Tianpeng to clear his name. Lan Tianpeng was displeased that Bai Yufu was practically forcing him to stay, but seeing the handsome young man in blue opposite him, he also told the waiter to bring over both horses.

Bai Yufu first took the red horse "Double Swords in Red," and pointed to his own horse, saying, "Young Master Lan, you may ride my wife's horse..."

But Lan Tianpeng asked with confusion and concern, "Your wife..."

Bai Yufu immediately understood and explained, "Don't worry about her, she will come to find us herself."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng felt that Bai Yufu treated his wife worse than a maid, but he couldn't say anything. He could only take the reins, leap onto his horse, and Bai Yufu had already cleared the way ahead. Fortunately, most of the people on the street were heading towards the South Gate, and pedestrians could dodge more quickly, but it was still not much faster than walking, and they often received disapproving looks from passersby. Lan Tianpeng clearly saw that the handsome young man in blue was planning to follow them, but he had already concluded that the two of them must have a close connection with the Kongtong Sect.

However, he harbored even greater suspicions about Bai Yufu and his wife. Bai Yufu insisted on inviting him to tour Chengnan Lake. Whether it was to help Lan Tianpeng get rid of the handsome young man in blue and his servant, or if they had other motives, he should remain vigilant at all times! With that thought in mind, Lan Tianpeng turned around and his eyes suddenly lit up.

Sure enough, in the crowd seven or eight zhang away, there were the handsome young man in blue and the old man in gray walking towards him. However, what surprised Lan Tianpeng most was that "Double Swords in Red" was still riding a tall horse, hurrying after them from dozens of feet away. This made him even more vigilant. Whether it was Bai Yufu or the handsome young man in blue, both were suspicious figures with significant backgrounds.

Once outside South Gate Street, the official road was wide, and the sedan chairs moved along the sides, allowing the two to gallop on horseback. After a while, they could see a cluster of new sheds standing among the willows two or three miles away, with figures moving about and a commotion carried on the wind—clearly, that was Chengnan Lake. Just then, "Double Swords in Red" caught up on horseback. Lan Tianpeng and Bai Yufu turned around simultaneously, and "Double Swords in Red" immediately explained with a smile, "The accountant at that restaurant is really lucky. Seeing that you two had arrived on horseback first, he specially lent me his horse for half a day, only asking for a few cents for fodder."

Lan Tianpeng naturally didn't believe this, but of course, he couldn't say anything. The three men, on three horses, galloped to the willow grove. A man selling horses approached to help them up. After dismounting, Bai Yufu left "Double Swords Fluttering Red" to handle the horse arrangements, while he politely explained to Lan Tianpeng and headed straight into the grove.

Inside, the grove was crowded with people. Stalls lined the area, mostly selling women's hair ornaments and children's toys. The wider areas were filled with taverns, tea stalls, food stalls, and performance areas for monkey shows and magic tricks. Passing through nearly a hundred large willow trees, their vision suddenly brightened to reveal a clear lake spanning several hundred acres. The lake's surface was shimmering with painted boats, which drifted gently on the water. From within the boats came the sounds of laughter and beautiful music.

Bai Yufu first pointed to the countless painted boats on the lake and said, "It's not dark yet. Once night falls, the lake shore will be brightly lit, and all the painted boats will be illuminated with lanterns. The lake will be a scene of bustling activity, with golden snakes and rats reflected in the water. It's a lively scene rarely seen by others. It's not until the Empress returns to the palace late at night that the crowds gradually disperse, but the lights on the entire lake shore will remain lit all night long."

As he spoke, "Double Swords Fluttering Red" hurriedly followed. Bai Yufu immediately looked at "Double Swords Piao Hong" and urged, "Pingmei, look where our pleasure boat is moored. Let's accompany Master Lan to play on the lake." Before he finished speaking, "Double Swords Piao Hong" smiled somewhat awkwardly and said, "I don't know where they've rowed off to. I really don't know how to find them."

Lan Tianpeng was eager to get to Tiantai and had no interest in boating on the lake, so he quickly said, "There's no need to trouble your wife to go. We'll just look around here."

Bai Yufu seemed to be particularly subjective in his actions. Before Lan Tianpeng could finish speaking, he interjected, "The Empress's palace is on the other side. We must go and see it." After saying that, he looked at "Double Swords Piao Hong" again, raised his hand and pointed due west, saying, "It's also very lively under the high platform over there. They might be over there. Pingmei, take a look."

"Double Swords Piao Hong" smiled and agreed without hesitation. Without allowing Lan Tianpeng to stop her any further, she walked briskly along the lake shore towards the west and quickly disappeared into the crowd. Lan Tianpeng looked towards the high platform Bai Yufu had just mentioned and saw a long table and several rows of large chairs laid out beneath the colorful canopy, already filled with dozens of people.

He had already heard from the shopkeeper that the "Flying Fork Three Goose" would come to Chengnan Lake every year on this day of the welcoming ceremony, and now, seeing the imposing presence of the platform, he figured it was probably set up by the "Dragon and Phoenix Society." With this thought in mind, he unconsciously looked at Bai Yufu and asked, "Young Master Bai, who are these people sitting under the colorful railings of that platform?"

Bai Yufu glanced at them, shook his head, and smiled, saying, "I'm not quite sure, they're probably the ones who organize the welcoming ceremony."

Lan Tianpeng nodded in belief, but asked with puzzlement, "I heard that the 'Flying Fork Three Goose,' the leader of the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society's' Changsha branch, comes here every year to oversee things. Where does he oversee things from?"

Upon hearing this, Bai Yufu couldn't help but smile happily, saying, "So you're friends with the 'Flying Fork Three Goose.'" "

Lan Tianpeng was afraid that Ouyang Zi would misunderstand, so he quickly explained, "No, we are not only not friends, but also enemies who have fought each other." Bai Yufu frowned, exclaimed in surprise, and glanced at the high platform to the west.

Since Lan Tianpeng had mentioned fighting the "Flying Fork Three Geese," he looked at Bai Yufu and lowered his voice to ask, "Young Master Bai, you're friends with most of the high-ranking members of their 'Dragon and Phoenix Society.' Have you ever heard them discuss the 'Vajra Subduing Demon Treasure Record'?"

Bai Yufu smiled calmly and said, "They probably wouldn't dare reveal such an important matter to outsiders. However, it seems that some of them have discussed the 'Vajra Subduing Demon Treasure Record'..."

Although Bai Yufu was speaking, his gaze seemed to intentionally or unintentionally drift towards the high platform on either side. Lan Tianpeng kept thinking about the shopkeeper's words, but with his back to the platform, he couldn't easily look back while talking to Bai Yufu, lest Bai Yufu criticize him for being impolite. Just then, a sound suddenly came from the lake. Cheers erupted! Lan Tianpeng and Bai Yufu simultaneously turned to look at the lake, where two pleasure boats were racing each other, drawing shouts from tourists on other boats of all sizes! However, Lan Tianpeng seized the opportunity to turn back and noticed the man on the large chair in the middle of the platform hurriedly standing up.

Lan Tianpeng's eyes lit up, and he was momentarily stunned, for the man standing up was none other than "Flying Fork Three Goose," the leader of the Changsha branch of the "Dragon and Phoenix Society." A burly man in a gray martial arts uniform with black trim was leading the flustered "Flying Fork Three Goose" hurriedly towards the backstage. Just as he was about to take a closer look, Bai Yufu laughed and said, "These rich kids have nothing better to do than race their pleasure boats on the lake."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng had no choice but to turn back, but he changed the subject seriously, saying, "Young Master Bai, the hosts on that platform over there are Xie Tangchun and his 'Flying Fork Three Goose' from the Changsha branch of the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society.'" Bai Yufu exclaimed "Oh!" in surprise, but said nothing.

Lan Tianpeng continued, "That is, the first time I discovered the people who went to Fanjing Mountain to forcibly seize the 'Vajra Subduing Demon Treasure Record'..."

Bai Yufu immediately said, puzzled, "I heard from some friends in the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society' that their female leader, 'Golden Thread Shadowless,' is actively sending people to find that purple-clad girl and her mother." Lan

Tianpeng was startled and blurted out, "How does Young Master Bai know that the purple-clad girl has a mother?"

Bai Yufu immediately shook his head and said, "I didn't know; I just heard my friends in the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society' talking about it."

Lan Tianpeng asked with concern, "Why is their female leader actively searching for the purple-clad girl and her mother?"

Bai Yufu hesitated and said, "I heard that 'Golden Thread Shadowless' has received news that the Kongtong Sect is about to send experts to seize the 'Vajra Subduing Demon Treasure Record,' so she sent 'Flying Fork Three Geese' and others to verify the mother and daughter's whereabouts and to protect them properly."

Lan Tianpeng chuckled coldly, saying, "Such high-sounding words, so much protection, but aren't they just taking advantage of the situation to profit from it?" Bai

Yufu smiled faintly, shook his head, and said, "I don't know the real situation... However... according to a friend of mine who is very close to Jin Xianwuying, their female leader seems to have some kind of kinship with the purple-clad girl and her mother, or perhaps a shared sect connection, their relationship seems... quite close."

Lan Tianpeng smiled faintly, shook his head, and said, "I think these are all lies."

Bai Yufu immediately said cheerfully, "Whether their words are true or false, it's none of our business. Now that the pleasure boat is here, let's go boating on the lake." With that, he raised his slender, fair right hand and pointed at the lake. Lan Tianpeng followed his finger and turned his head. Suddenly, twenty feet away, an extremely luxurious, brightly decorated pleasure boat sped towards them, "Twin Swords Fluttering Red," standing prominently in front of the gate.

This painted boat, over three zhang long, had six oars on each side. Its eaves were adorned with green roofs and gold flowers, and its wide windows and beaded curtains offered glimpses of the interior furnishings. Red silk ribbons stretched from both ends of the boat, and four large, colorful pom-poms hung from the four corners of the eaves. Exquisite palace lanterns hung beneath the intricately carved eaves. On the entire lake, it was undoubtedly the most luxurious and unparalleled painted boat.

Seeing this, Lan Tianpeng's suspicions deepened. Bai Yufu lived far away in Hangzhou, and although his home was on the western shore, his painted boat could not possibly have come here. Before he could finish his thought, the boat was already close. "Double Swords Fluttering Red," standing before the eaves, gave a command, and two young servants and seven or eight maids rushed out from behind the eaves, quickly bringing the planks to the shore.

Bai Yufu immediately gestured respectfully to Lan Tianpeng, saying "Please." The young servants on the boat stood on either side, bowing slightly. Lan Tianpeng showed no modesty, stepping onto the deck and heading straight for the painted boat. Once aboard, he saw that the boat's surface was gleaming and impeccably clean. Only before reaching the beaded curtain at the entrance to the pavilion did a sky-blue velvet carpet extend outwards. Two maids standing behind the entrance, upon seeing Lan Tianpeng and Bai Yufu approach, hurriedly lifted the curtain and respectfully greeted, "Young Master." As

Lan Tianpeng and Bai Yufu entered the pavilion, a lingering aroma of wine immediately filled the cabin. Bai Yufu, naturally, also sensed something amiss. He glanced at Lan Tianpeng, then immediately looked at the two maids at the door, frowning and asking in a low voice, "What? Was someone feasting here just now?" "

Twin Swords Fluttering Red," who had just entered, was about to explain to Bai Yufu when one of the maids bowed and said, "Reporting to Young Master, around noon, we were waiting for your arrival, so we cleared away the wine and dishes we had prepared for you."

Upon hearing this, Bai Yufu's handsome face revealed a hint of excitement and surprise. He immediately said cheerfully, "So that's how it is. You did the right thing. I met Young Master Lan in the city and we already had a few drinks. Now, please have the chef prepare a new table."

Lan Tianpeng was eager to get to the rooftop and had no appetite for further drinking or eating, so he hurriedly and humbly said, "I was just..."

Before he could finish, Bai Yufu warmly said, "What harm is there in having a few more drinks?" He then instructed the maid, "Go and prepare quickly." The maid respectfully replied, "Yes," and turned to leave.

Bai Yufu, while respectfully inviting Lan Tianpeng to sit, glanced at "Double Swords Piaohong" and said cheerfully, "This girl is very clever. We'll transfer her to our room later."

"Double Swords Piaohong" immediately nodded obediently in agreement. Lan Tianpeng, observing this, felt a mixture of admiration and suspicion towards her. He admired her for her virtuousness and obedience to her husband, willingly obeying his every command. He doubted whether "Double Swords Piaohong" was truly the legendary figure described by Old Lan Fu—the one who shook the entire land, fiercely jealous of evil, and whose sword could swiftly slay heads. Lost

in thought, he turned to look out the window. The clever maidservant passed by, gracefully making her way to the back of the pavilion. She had almond-shaped eyes, willow-leaf eyebrows, cherry lips, and peach-blossom cheeks—quite beautiful. Thinking to himself, "Such a beautiful girl, arranged in my room by my husband, and my wife not only doesn't object or get jealous, but obediently agrees—no one would believe it unless they saw it with their own eyes." As he was deep in thought, Bai Yufu suddenly asked with a smile, "Young Master Lan, what are you thinking about?"

Lan Tianpeng quickly composed himself and said apologetically with a smile, "I'm just considering how to return to the inn and settle the bill."

Bai Yufu smiled happily and said, "Young Master Lan, you're really pondering this? That's a bit unnecessary."

Lan Tianpeng was taken aback and asked, puzzled, "What do you mean by that, Young Master Bai?"

Bai Yufu smiled elegantly, then said seriously, "Young Master Lan, please don't worry about it. What I mean is that if you leave now, I will naturally send someone to pay the bill for the inn in town."

Lan Tianpeng's heart skipped a beat upon hearing this, and he asked in surprise, "Young Master Bai, how did you know I was staying at a small inn?" Bai

Yufu smiled elegantly and said, "It's not that I'm boasting, but even the largest inn here can't compare to the smallest inn in Hangzhou, especially not the ones by West Lake. Therefore, I generally refer to all the inns here as 'small inns.'"

Lan Tianpeng didn't entirely agree with Bai Yufu's explanation, but he frankly said, "Last night, I was tricked and prevented from entering the city by 'Golden Thread Without Shadow,' so I had to stay at a small inn at the street corner. That's why I'm quite surprised that you mentioned

a small inn." Bai Yufu smiled happily and said, "With Young Master Lan's demeanor and attire, it wouldn't be difficult to find out which inn you're staying at."

Just then, the clever maid brought in the wine and dishes, and at that moment, a sound of waves breaking suddenly came from not far away. Lan Tianpeng and Bai Yufu both woke up at the same time and rushed to the wide window. They lifted the beaded curtain and looked out, their eyes lighting up simultaneously. They saw the handsome young man in blue who had been following them from the restaurant standing on a long, small boat, while the old man in gray was rowing alone at the stern. Judging

from the splashing water at the bow, the boat was obviously moving at an astonishing speed, and the strength of the old man in gray was also evident. While Lan Tianpeng was observing, the small boat had already caught up. Although the painted boat had twelve oars rowing rhythmically, it was still overtaken by the small boat like an arrow released from a bow. The handsome young man in blue, standing at the bow, waved his fan and glanced at them briefly before turning his head away. The old man in gray at the stern didn't even bother to look at them.

After the small boat sped past, Lan Tianpeng immediately looked at Bai Yufu, whose expression had softened slightly, and asked in confusion, "Young Master Bai seems to know that young man in blue?"

Bai Yufu immediately replied, "What young man?" But as soon as the words left his mouth, he suddenly changed his tone and said contemptuously, "I don't know him at all."

In that instant, Lan Tianpeng noticed that Bai Yufu's expression and tone had changed, but he had no time to think about it and immediately said seriously, "From my observation, the master and servant seem to know you and your wife."

Bai Yufu exclaimed in surprise, "Eh?" and then said cautiously, "That's unlikely. I did meet them on the way, but we never spoke. However, according to some friends from the 'Dragon and Phoenix Society,' they seem to be from the Kongtong Sect."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately nodded in agreement and said, "That's right, that's what I was thinking too. Just now at the restaurant, when I mentioned the Lüzu Temple, their expressions changed, and they paid close attention to me."

Bai Yufu smiled faintly, then gestured respectfully, saying, "The food and wine are ready; let's have a leisurely chat." The two turned and walked towards the table, but "Twin Swords Fluttering Red" was nowhere to be seen in the cabin. Lan Tianpeng sat down, politely asking, "Where is your wife?" Bai

Yufu immediately replied, "She went to the lower deck to instruct me on a few dishes that I usually enjoy."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng gave a thumbs-up and exclaimed, "Young Master Bai, you are truly blessed to have such a virtuous wife!" Bai Yufu simply laughed and immediately raised his cup to offer a toast.

Lan Tianpeng drank it all in one gulp, and just as he was about to offer another toast, the rapid sound of waves crashing against the shore rang out again; clearly, the small boat had turned back. Bai Yufu snorted softly, clearly annoyed. However, Lan Tianpeng quickly put down his cup and rose to walk towards the window. Unexpectedly, as he stood up, Bai Yufu reached out and grabbed his forearm. Lan Tianpeng was startled and quickly turned around, only to find that Bai Yufu had hurriedly let go of his hand, his handsome face flushed red.

Bai Yufu quickly forced a smile and said, "It's best not to pay attention to these boring young people."

Hearing this, Lan Tianpeng, not wanting to go back to the window, could only smile and agree, sitting down again. Just then, the small boat sped past like an arrow, about two zhang (approximately 6.6 meters) outside the window. Before, it had been going in the same direction, so he hadn't noticed anything, but this time it was moving at a much faster speed, like lightning, flashing past in an instant. Because Bai Yufu had raised his cup to toast, Lan Tianpeng couldn't turn around, and therefore didn't see the handsome young man in blue on the small boat.

The small boat had passed, and Bai Yufu immediately looked at Lan Tianpeng, smiling as he asked, "Young Master Lan, where do you plan to travel to this time?"

Lan Tianpeng's heart skipped a beat, and he immediately smiled and said, "I'd like to go to Tiantai first..."

Bai Yufu immediately interjected, "Is it to visit a friend, or is there some other important business?"

Lan Tianpeng deliberately smiled and said, "To visit a newly acquainted friend..."

Before he could finish, Bai Yufu smiled knowingly and said, "I understand."

Lan Tianpeng's brows furrowed slightly, and he asked, feigning confusion, "How did you know, Young Master Bai?"

Bai Yufu said without hesitation, "Then you must be visiting Young Master Ouyang."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng was both surprised and delighted, and couldn't help but ask urgently, "Young Master Bai also knows Brother Ouyang?"

Bai Yufu immediately smiled and said, "Who doesn't know the Ouyang family of Tiantai? Besides, I've met him several times!"

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately asked, puzzled, "If that's the case, why didn't you greet Young Master Ouyang at the 'Golden Dove and Silver Staff' birthday banquet?"

Bai Yufu smiled faintly and shook his head, saying, "They are a renowned martial arts family. If I were to approach them, others might think I'm trying to curry favor and get a special seat." Lan

Tianpeng immediately disagreed, saying, "That's not necessarily true. Young Master Ouyang is sitting at the table just like everyone else."

Bai Yufu shook his head and smiled, saying, "I'm not as thick-skinned as Young Master Ouyang. I don't have the courage to drink with you at the table."

Lan Tianpeng couldn't help but say indignantly, "This is entirely due to 'Liaochen' obstructing things and deliberately making things difficult. However, according to Gao Lianying, the beloved daughter of 'Golden Dove and Silver Staff,' most of the elders and representatives present don't know about the Ouyang family in Tiantai, which is why they agreed with 'Liaochen's' suggestion not to set up a special seat."

Bai Yufu explained, "That's because they rarely travel along the coast. In the Jiangnan and Anhui regions, everyone knows about the 'Ouyang family,' even the women and children." Lan

Tianpeng felt much relieved upon hearing this and was about to say something when a sudden commotion erupted on the lake! Bai Yufu remained calm, but Lan Tianpeng suddenly went to the window, lifted the curtain, and peered out. He saw a large number of painted boats and pleasure boats gathered on the north side of the lake, arranged in a long, orderly line. Boats from other directions, driven by curiosity, were also heading towards the scene.

Seeing this, Lan Tianpeng suddenly had a premonition and immediately scanned the lake, but he couldn't see the small boat of the blue-robed youth. Clearly, the small boat was blocked by the other boats, and with so many curious boats rushing to join the fun, the blue-robed youth's boat probably wouldn't be able to get through anytime soon.

As he was observing, the voice of "Twin Swords Piao Hong" suddenly rang out behind him: "Young Master Lan, don't go and watch their pleasure boat race."

Lan Tianpeng turned around and saw "Twin Swords Piao Hong" and Bai Yufu standing behind him. Sure enough, several more seafood dishes had appeared on the table. He smiled and walked back to the table, saying, "I have urgent business to attend to and am not in the mood to watch their pleasure boat race." He paused, then suddenly seemed to realize something and said, "Young Master Bai, aren't you going to participate in this pleasure boat race?"

Bai Yufu smiled elegantly and said, "It's not too late to go after you've taken the Young Master ashore."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately glanced out the window and tactfully said, "We're not far from the shore. Shall I disembark here?" Unexpectedly, Bai Yufu didn't politely try to stop him, but immediately nodded and said, "Very well. I'll be going to Tiantai in a few days. We'll meet at Young Master Ouyang's house then..." "See you."

Lan Tianpeng, remembering he hadn't settled his bill at the inn, had to remind Bai Yufu again, saying, "I'll leave the matter of the small shop in Xiguan to you, Young Master Bai." Bai Yufu smiled without hesitation and said, "Young Master Lan, please rest assured, the first thing I'll do after entering the city is to go to the shop to pay the bill." As they spoke, they were already close to the shore, and Lan Tianpeng could only cup his hands and smile, saying, "I'm very sorry to have bothered you for half a day. I hope to see you both again on the rooftop."

Bai Yufu and "Double Swords Piao Hong" laughed in unison and said, "See you on the rooftop." So, with Lan Tianpeng and "Double Swords Piao Hong" seeing them off, they walked out of the guardhouse and straight to the gunwale. As soon as the painted boat reached the shore, Lan Tianpeng cupped his hands again and said "Take care," then leaped ashore. He waved to Lan Tianpeng again before squeezing into the crowd and walking eastward.

Walking into the willow grove along the shore, he looked back and saw that Bai Yufu and "Double Swords Piao Hong" were still standing on the deck, but the painted boat had already turned around and sailed north. After his encounters with Ouyang Zi, Bai Yufu, and others, Lan Tianpeng realized that while his palm techniques were excellent, he unfortunately lacked swordsmanship. Now, he deeply resented "Black Hand Sanlang." If it weren't for him pushing his master, the middle-aged man in yellow, into the abyss, his master would probably already be teaching him weapons.

Based on the facts and Uncle Ma's judgment, his master's dying scream, "Go to the Heavenly Terrace," had a profound meaning. Now, he no longer sought out "Black Hand Sanlang," nor did he think of his master's enemy, the "Silver-Clad Swordsman," nor the handsome young man in blue. His only urgent task now was to fulfill his master's dying wish and go to the Heavenly Terrace. He was certain that once he reached the Heavenly Terrace and found the person he was looking for, the mystery of his master's origins would be solved. However, who to look for on the Heavenly Terrace? What was the matter? Of course, all these were unknown. Ideally, he should find Ouyang Zi first, and then seize the opportunity to uncover the extraordinary person residing on the Heavenly Terrace.

Moreover, he also needed to confirm one thing—Ouyang Zi was the female leader of the "Dragon and Phoenix Society." Leaving the willow grove, it was already dusk, but the number of vehicles and crowds surging from all directions was increasing, stretching as far as the eye could see. Without inquiring about the route, Lan Tianpeng hurried along the main road leading due east until the bright moon shone over the Yangtze River and the sky was filled with stars, at which point the road was completely deserted.

He then unleashed his light-footed skills, speeding eastward at breakneck speed—due to his eagerness, Lan Tianpeng often traveled day and night, and thus, within a few days, he reached the famous mountain on the border of Zhejiang—Xianxia Ridge. Entering Zhejiang, Lan Tianpeng's anxiety intensified. His first priority was to inquire about the reputation of the Ouyang family in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and the coastal areas. However, to his surprise, no one knew of a martial arts family named Ouyang in Tiantai.

Lan Tianpeng initially thought Tiantai was far away, but after passing through Songyang, Xuanping, and even Yongkang, only a few hundred miles from Tiantai, no one knew of the Ouyang family. At this point, Lan Tianpeng realized he had been fooled, and he began to doubt Ouyang Zi and Bai Yufu again, carefully considering their origins. Lan Tianpeng didn't avoid Tiantai just because there was no martial arts family named Ouyang there. He had personally heard his master's piercing scream as he fell into the abyss—"Go to Tiantai!"

After passing Yongkang, he stopped inquiring about the Ouyang family and focused solely on his journey to Tiantai. Around noon that day, Lan Tianpeng entered the west gate of Tiantai County. He saw a grand city gate, wide streets, and bustling crowds. Upon arriving in Tiantai County, Lan Tianpeng felt even more lost and confused. Who should he visit? Where was the extraordinary person he sought? The thought of extraordinary people unconsciously brought to mind mountains, and he subconsciously glanced at the endless, forest-like peaks of Tiantai Mountain to the north of the city.

However, it was merely a subconscious glance; he would never blindly venture into the forests and peaks of Tiantai Mountain to search for a baseless extraordinary person. It was midday, lunchtime, and almost every restaurant and inn was packed, but Lan Tianpeng felt no hunger. As he walked, he saw a young beggar, about fifteen or sixteen years old, standing under the eaves of a restaurant ahead. A thought struck him; he remembered Uncle Ma, the Beggar King, and wondered if his fifth uncle had already arrived. He decided to ask the young beggar about the whereabouts of the chivalrous beggar. Reaching the restaurant, the waiters and waitresses greeted him, and the young beggar also wanted to take the opportunity to ask for some coins. Lan Tianpeng gestured for the waiter to wait, then pointed to the young beggar.

Upon seeing him, the young beggar, his face full of sorrow, rushed over, repeatedly pleading, "Sir, have pity on me! May you be promoted and become wealthy..." As he spoke, he bowed and scraped, extending a small, greasy hand.

Lan Tianpeng first took out two pieces of silver from his waist and placed them in the beggar's hand, saying gently, "This is for you. Please take me to your leader."

The beggar was taken aback and immediately returned the silver to Lan Tianpeng, saying timidly, "If you have something to say, sir, I can take you there. I dare not accept the silver."

Lan Tianpeng smiled calmly and said, "Please accept the silver. Just lead me there." As he spoke, he placed the silver piece in the beggar's hand again.

This time, the beggar did not refuse, but asked with concern, "I wonder what business you have with our leader, sir?"

Lan Tianpeng smiled and said, "I have arranged to meet Uncle Ma Wu, the chivalrous beggar, at the rooftop. I wonder if he has arrived yet."

Upon hearing this, the beggar looked blank. Finally, he bowed respectfully and smiled, saying, "I will take you there, sir." After saying this, he turned and walked east.

Lan Tianpeng knew that the beggar had no recollection of his Fifth Master, who had gone to Hainan, so he didn't bother to ask any more questions and followed him eastward. Turning north and passing through two more alleys, they finally saw a slightly dilapidated ancestral hall under a large locust tree. Upon seeing it, the young beggar immediately whispered, "That's our leader."

The old beggar, with his keen ears, immediately opened one eye to glance at Lan Tianpeng, but then closed it again. Suddenly, as if realizing something, he opened his eyes, stood up, and stared at Lan Tianpeng with surprise. Before the beggar could report, Lan Tianpeng hurried forward, cupped his hands, and smiled, saying

, "I am Lan Tianpeng, from Lengxiang Valley in Moda Ridge..." The moment he uttered the words "Lengxiang Valley," the old beggar immediately clasped his hands in a flustered manner and said with a smile, "You must be Young Master Lan."

Lan Tianpeng immediately replied humbly, "It's nothing, I am Lan Tianpeng..."

The old beggar introduced himself, "Old Beggar Liu Qingsan, may I ask what brings Young Master Lan?"

Lan Tianpeng smiled and said, "I parted ways with the chivalrous beggar Uncle Ma in Phoenix City..."

Before he could finish, Liu Qingsan exclaimed in shock, "The chivalrous beggar you speak of, could it be our sect's Master Ma?"

Seeing the old beggar's expression, Lan Tianpeng knew the chivalrous beggar hadn't arrived yet, and could only nod, saying, "That's right. It is indeed him, our good fortune is to meet on the rooftop..." Before he could finish, the old beggar Liu Qingsan exclaimed in surprise, "He hasn't come? Then Young Master Lan, please come in and have a seat." Saying this, he solemnly pointed to the door of the bronze hall.

Lan Tianpeng felt there was nothing to discuss since the beggar hadn't come, but he couldn't forget the Ouyang family. Although he knew it was hopeless, he couldn't help but ask with a smile, "No need to go in. May I ask, Master Liu, is there any famous martial arts family here named Ouyang?"

Upon hearing this, Liu Qingsan's two oily white eyebrows immediately furrowed, and he slowly shook his head, saying, "I grew up here when I was a teenager, and to this day, I've never heard of an Ouyang family here."

Lan Tianpeng, having already prepared himself for this... Not disappointed, he smiled calmly and said, "Then forget it. I'd like to stay here for a few days and wait for Uncle Ma Wu to arrive..." Before he could finish, Liu Qingsan said warmly, "Second Master Feng of Yuelai Inn has quite a connection with our gang. Young Master Lan can stay there. If there's any news, I can inform you. Perhaps Fifth Patriarch will also go there to look for you." After saying this, he ordered the little beggar, "Ah boy, quickly take Grandpa Lan there."

Upon hearing this, the little beggar immediately bowed and replied, "Yes," and turned to leave. Lan Tianpeng thanked Liu Qingsan again before following the little beggar towards the main street. As soon as they exited the alley, they saw a luxurious restaurant called Rongyu Inn. The sign above the inn's door indeed read "Yuelai Old Inn." However, the horizontal plaque above the restaurant read "Yuelai Pavilion." Seeing that he didn't want to involve any more people, Lan Tianpeng looked at the little beggar and said with a smile, "You go back first, I'll go by myself."

The little beggar naturally didn't dare to say anything more. He respectfully agreed and turned to leave. Lan Tianpeng looked at the sky; the sun was already setting. He decided to go upstairs to get something to eat first. As soon as he entered the restaurant, he could no longer hear any noise upstairs, indicating that there weren't many people. The waiter immediately invited Lan Tianpeng to sit upstairs. Upon going upstairs, he saw that there were indeed only two or three people, but Lan Tianpeng didn't sit down. Then,

an old man dressed in coarse linen came up from downstairs. Guided by the waiter, Lan Tianpeng sat down at a table near the back window, while the old man automatically chose a table in the center, directly opposite the entrance, and sat down. The waiter asked Lan Tianpeng what he wanted to eat and drink and went to prepare it, while the other waiters sat in a corner of the counter chatting, ignoring the old man. Lan Tianpeng saw this and was puzzled, but he didn't feel comfortable asking.

Since the food and drinks hadn't arrived yet, Lan Tianpeng turned to look out the window. He saw Mount Tiantai to the north, majestic and imposing, its peaks like a forest, layer upon layer of towering cliffs, shimmering green under the bright sun, shrouded in mist and white clouds. From afar, it appeared incomparably rugged, no less impressive than Mount Fanjing where he had once studied martial arts for nine months. While he was looking around, the waiter brought the food and drinks. The waiter arranged the dishes, bowed obsequiously with a broad smile, and left.

However, as he passed the old man in coarse clothes, he stopped with a smile, and asked somewhat impatiently, "Old man, you've been waiting here for over ten days, and still haven't seen him. I think your Master Ouyang has probably missed the appointed time."

Lan Tianpeng was startled, as if struck by lightning. He nearly dropped the wine jug he was holding, and looked at the old man in coarse clothes in astonishment. The old man looked somber, slowly shaking his white head, and said with some disappointment, "Master said he would come back this year, and he definitely will. If he doesn't come back soon, the reputation of our Ouyang family will be completely forgotten by those snobbish people."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng felt there was something to it. This old man in coarse clothes was very likely a member of Ouyang Zi's family. So, taking advantage of the bartender's helpless shake of his head and departure,

Lan Tianpeng immediately stood up, cupped his hands in greeting, and said gently, "Old sir, sitting alone waiting for someone must be boring. Would you mind joining me for a few drinks?" The old man in the coarse clothes slowly turned his head, looking at Lan Tianpeng with indifferent eyes, and said in a low voice, "Young man, are you asking about me?"

Lan Tianpeng immediately nodded and smiled,

saying, "That's right, I apologize for the intrusion, please don't take offense, sir." Only then did a smile appear on the old man's disappointed and indifferent face. At the same time, he stood up and said with a smile, "Young man, you are truly generous. I'll just have a drink." After saying that, he actually came over.

Upon seeing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately waved to the bartenders who were watching coldly, signaling them to bring another set of cups and saucers. The bartenders, seeing this, dared not be negligent and hurriedly brought over another set of cups and chopsticks. Lan Tianpeng personally poured a cup of wine for the old man in coarse clothes. After they sat down, he humbly asked, "What is your honorable surname, sir, and where do you live?"

The old man in coarse clothes first drank his wine, chuckled, and said, "As far back as I can remember, I grew up in the Ouyang family. Later, I served as your tutor, and when I grew up, I became your horse handler. After your father passed away, I became your eldest son's attendant."

Lan Tianpeng didn't expect that one sentence would trigger such a long self-narration from the old man, so he seized the opportunity to interject, "Who is your eldest son?"

The old man drank another cup of wine and said seriously, "He is our father's eldest son. He has been away for more than ten days. He was supposed to return at the end of this year, but I have been waiting for more than ten days and still haven't seen a trace of him."

Lan Tianpeng was both amused and exasperated. After asking for a long time without getting any answers, he had to change the subject and ask, "Does your master have a young master?"

The old man in coarse clothes sighed and said, "Finally, we have one."

Lan Tianpeng was startled and excitedly asked, "Is your young master named Ouyang Zi?"

The old man in coarse clothes was about to raise his cup to drink when he suddenly stopped and asked in surprise, "Eh, how do you know my young master?"

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng's worried and resentful heart immediately relaxed. He had finally found someone from the Ouyang family, so he excitedly said, "I met your young master at the birthday banquet of the 'Golden Dove and Silver Staff' family in Gaojialou. I came to Tiantai on business and really wanted to visit your residence, but I've asked all over the city..."

The old man in coarse clothes immediately interrupted unhappily, "You've asked all over the city and no one knows him, has he?"

Lan Tianpeng could only nod repeatedly, smiling as he said, "Yes, yes, I didn't expect to meet you here, sir. Please guide me there in a moment." Unexpectedly

, the old man in coarse clothes immediately shook his head coldly and said, "You go yourself, young man. I'm waiting here for my master to return."

Lan Tianpeng was taken aback and said with difficulty, "But I've asked everyone I know, and no one knows your address."

The old man in coarse clothes immediately said unhappily, "Those are all snobbish people. Back when my master was alive, his martial arts were superb, his swordsmanship unmatched. Not to mention the famous figures from various sects who came to visit him, even the disciples from all over the country who knelt on the ground begging my master to take them in as disciples, the line stretched for miles." Although Lan

Tianpeng felt the old man in the coarse robe was exaggerating, considering Ouyang Zi's strange swordsmanship, it might actually be true. As he pondered this, he heard the old man continue, "Now, you can go straight to the North Gate from the main street ahead, then head south from there, continuing deeper into the valley..."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng exclaimed in surprise, "You mean Tiantai Mountain in the north of the city?"

The old man in the coarse robe immediately replied seriously, "Yes, did my young master ever tell you that his home is on the main street of Tiantai City?"

Lan Tianpeng's handsome face flushed red, and he was speechless. Thinking about it carefully, he realized it was true; Ouyang Zi had only said that they lived in Tiantai, without giving a detailed address. He blamed himself for being careless and not asking further. Then he realized he hadn't even considered his master's words about "going to Tiantai," nor did he intend to come to Tiantai at all. In his mind's eye, he heard the old man in coarse clothes say, "Once you enter the mountains, you can see it anywhere by climbing to a high point."

Upon hearing this, Lan Tianpeng immediately said gratefully, "Thank you for your guidance, sir. I will go very early tomorrow morning..."

Upon hearing this, the old man in coarse clothes immediately shook his head and interjected, "Why go tomorrow morning? It's better to go tonight. Today is December 16th, the moon is at its brightest. Just walk towards the brightest lights, and you will see it in no time. If you wait until tomorrow morning, the clouds and fog will be thick, and you won't know the way. Even if you reach our house, you will hardly find it."

Lan Tianpeng thought this made perfect sense and immediately said gratefully, "Thank you for your guidance, sir. I will go immediately after lunch."

The old man in coarse clothes nodded reassuringly, and said with a somewhat condescending smile, "Good, good, you young people have the drive, but you lack experience."

Lan Tianpeng felt that what the old man in coarse clothes said was all wise and true, and he didn't want to say anything more. He quickly finished his meal and reached into his pocket for some silver. Upon seeing this, the old man in coarse clothes immediately waved his hand to stop him, saying, "You are now a distinguished guest of the Ouyang family, and it is I who should receive you..."

The sharp-eyed waiter, seeing this, quickly rushed to Lan Tianpeng's side, bowing and smiling, saying, "Sir, if you have any spare change..."

The old man in coarse clothes, upon seeing this, flew into a rage. He slammed his left hand on the table with a loud "thud," and when he pulled it back, it revealed a ten-tael gold ingot. At the same time, he glared and roared, "You blind fool! Quickly call out your Feng Lao Er and have him kneel before my feet and scrape the gold dust with a knife!"

Hearing that his manager was addressed as Feng Lao Er, the waiters knew they had encountered a formidable opponent. All the waiters rushed over, bowing and scraping hastily in apology. Seeing Lan Tianpeng standing there dumbfounded, the old man in coarse clothes suddenly laughed and said, "Young man, this is what they call 'reputation.' With this little display of my temper, next time you come to the Ouyang family, I guarantee you can ask them how many people there are and they'll tell you." Upon hearing this

, Lan Tianpeng was filled with admiration. He could only rise, cup his hands in greeting, and say with a smile, "A word from you, sir, is worth a thousand miles. Without further ado, I

'll take my leave." The old man in coarse clothes also rose, cupped his hands in greeting, and said modestly, "You go ahead, young man. I will arrive by tomorrow evening." Lan Tianpeng agreed and, filled with extreme excitement, hurried downstairs.

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