[Wuxia] Embroidered Robes and Cloud-like Hair (Complete) - 27

Chapter Thirty-Two: The Pre-Meeting

Scenery and the Words of Love Had barely left his lips when, with a soft rustling sound, the branch in Jiang Tiantao's hand had already nimbly grazed beneath Hou Ruping's breast and left side. Hou Ruping's mind went blank for a moment, and he let out a sharp scream, flying back two zhang (approximately 6.6 meters) in a flash, his face ashen, cold sweat pouring down his back. The dozens of Taoists standing to his left and right, upon seeing this, all paled. Hou Ruping's swordsmanship far surpassed that of the other three swordsmen, yet he couldn't even last two moves against Jiang Tiantao. They were all stunned. Songhe Daoist and the other three swordsmen were also taken aback.

As soon as Hou Ruping regained his footing, Jiang Tiantao hurriedly cupped his hands and said with a smile, "Thank you for your leniency!"

Seeing that Hou Ruping hadn't fallen, the Red Dust Daoist knew that Jiang Tiantao had shown mercy, and that the soft branch hadn't concealed any true power. He couldn't help but feel secretly grateful. Just as he was about to speak, Old Daoist Dichun angrily asked, "Are those two moves you displayed, Benefactor Jiang, the 'Lixing Sword Technique' that your father is famous for?"

Jiang Tiantao, seeing Dichun's stern tone with each question, decided to provoke him. He smiled faintly and said, "The Lixing Sword Technique is a secret ancestral art of our fortress. It is never used unless facing a formidable opponent."

Upon hearing this, the four swordsmen and ten Daoists of Wudang changed their expressions again. The two moves the opponent made were wondrous and unpredictable, as fast as lightning. They were not the Lixing Sword Technique that Jiugong Fortress was famous for, and the power of the Lixing Sword Technique, once unleashed, was unimaginable.

Old Daoist Dichun, already furious and glaring, his face ashen, finally roared, "Fine, I'll test your Lixing Sword Technique to see just how powerful it is!" With a loud shout, before Hongchen could respond, he leaped into the arena.

Jiang Tiantao, eager to test his skills against the Wudang Sanchen, laughed heartily, "I would be delighted if you would offer me guidance, Daoist Master."

The old Daoist Dichen steadied himself, snorted angrily, and with a flick of his wrist, withdrew his sword. A clang rang out, a flash of cold light, and a pool of autumn water appeared before him. Then, his brows furrowed, and he glared at Jiang Tiantao, complaining, "Benefactor Jiang

, please draw your sword." Jiang Tiantao smiled faintly, saying, "Wouldn't it be better if both Daoist Master and I used soft swords?"

Dichen shook his head fiercely, saying in a deep voice, "This humble Daoist believes that using a solid sword better showcases its profound power."

Jiang Tiantao laughed loudly, "Very well, but my Lixing Sword can cut through gold and jade. To win with a sharp weapon is not honorable..."

Before Jiang Tiantao could finish speaking, Dichen immediately snorted angrily, saying, "This sword in my hand is no ordinary weapon either." As he spoke, he deliberately channeled his force into the sword, causing its cold light to surge forth.

The "Three Dusts of Wudang" all possessed decades of swordsmanship expertise. Jiang Tiantao appeared calm on the surface, but his guard was high. He casually tossed aside the soft sword in his hand, smiled faintly, and said, "I'd be honored to accept your invitation. I'll draw my sword and ask the Daoist for a few moves of Wudang's ultimate techniques." As soon as he uttered the word "learn," he withdrew his sword with a horizontal elbow strike, pressed the spring, and subtly channeled his true power. With a clear, resonant dragon's roar, a flash of light appeared, and the radiance surged three feet, instantly bathing the surrounding area in a thin, shimmering glow.

Upon seeing this, Daoist Hongchen and the others all paled. They knew that it would be difficult for Daoist Dichen to advance through such a three-foot-long sword beam, let alone win. Daoist Songhe and the "Four Swordsmen of Wudang" not only lost their arrogance, but their faces were filled with worry and anxiety. Standing opposite Jiang Tiantao, the old Daoist Dichun, his beard bristling and eyes wide with shock, stared in disbelief at the dazzling, ever-changing light emanating from Jiang Tiantao's sword, the Lixing Sword. He was utterly stunned. Only now did he realize that the young, newly appointed lord of "Nine Palaces Fortress," Jiang Tiantao, was indeed as powerful as rumored, and even surpassed it. At the same time, he deeply regretted his rash appearance and forcing his opponent to draw his sword. It seemed that the reputation he had built over decades would be ruined tonight by this young man. The

thought of his reputation about to be destroyed ignited a surge of violent anger within him. He frowned and shouted sharply, "The sword is already drawn! Why doesn't Benefactor Jiang offer his move?"

Jiang Tiantao, observing the expressions of the Wudang Daoists and the stunned silence of the old Daoist Dichun, knew he had achieved his goal. If the Wudang sect leader, Daoist Hongchen, would back down and slightly intervene, he would seize the opportunity to sheathe his sword! Unexpectedly, while Master Hongchen was racking his brains for a solution, Master Dichen had already challenged him to a duel. Jiang Tiantao had no choice but to draw his sword, cup his hands, and loudly proclaim, "In that case, I have presumptuously accepted." With that, he leaped forward, his "Lixing Sword" unleashing a "Pointing the Way to Immortals" move, aiming for Master Dichen's throat.

Master Dichen, a seasoned veteran, knew that Jiang Tiantao's "Pointing the Way to Immortals" move was both real and feint, its variations unpredictable. Therefore, he wouldn't retaliate until Jiang Tiantao's sword strike was fully formed. However, Jiang Tiantao's swordplay was unconventional. Midway through the strike, a sudden burst of light erupted, the sword tip trembling and instantly transforming into three magnificent, dazzling sword flowers. Master Dichen was startled, instinctively sliding and spinning, his sword veering off course, sweeping across Jiang Tiantao's "Curved Pool" point. Just as Di Chen drew his sword, Jiang Tiantao's sword style suddenly changed again. Amidst three beautiful sword flowers, a streak of azure light appeared, and the Lixing Sword flashed towards Di Chen's shoulders.

Di Chen, the old Daoist, was, after all, a seasoned swordsman, and had achieved considerable skill in Wudang swordsmanship. He could easily handle these familiar sword techniques. Jiang Tiantao, who had been painstakingly taught by the "Fairy of Begonia" since childhood, was already more than capable of defeating Di Chen using only ordinary sword techniques and one or two moves of the "Hibiscus Sword Technique." Thus, the two attacked and defended each other, their battle growing increasingly fierce, with only the flash of swords obscuring their figures!

Master Hongchen could see that although they had already exchanged more than ten blows, Jiang Tiantao seemed to have yet to unleash the "Lixing Sword Technique," the weapon that made "Nine Palaces Fortress" so renowned throughout the martial world. Moreover, judging from Jiang Tiantao's graceful movements and steady swordsmanship, it was clear that Jiang Tiantao intended to force Dichun to finish using the Wudang sword techniques before defeating him with ordinary swordplay. At that time, not only would Dichun not have seen a single move of the Lixing Sword Technique, but Jiang Tiantao would have grasped the entirety of the Wudang sword techniques. At the Dragon Head Assembly

the day after tomorrow, perhaps in just three or five moves, Jiang Tiantao would have knocked Wudang out of the competition. Thinking this, Master Hongchen broke out in a cold sweat and hurriedly raised his golden whisk, ready to shout in protest. Suddenly, amidst the sword light, Master Dichun roared, "Why doesn't Benefactor Jiang use the Lixing Sword Technique?"

Then Jiang Tiantao laughed loudly, "Master, you must prepare!" As soon as the word "prepare" was uttered, the arena suddenly shone brightly, colorful light blazed, and beautiful stars scattered, instantly coating the surrounding area within several feet with a layer of colorful clouds. At the same time, both figures were clearly visible. The old Daoist

Dichun was using the Wudang martial art "Magu Offering Longevity," conjuring a forest of sword shadows to fight against Jiang Tiantao's "Myriad Stars of Beauty." Before his move could fully develop, Jiang Tiantao swiftly switched to "Stars and Moon Reflecting Snow," a deep yellow light illuminating the ground with countless cold stars, casting a chilling glow. The old Daoist Dichun, rushing towards Dichun, was startled, letting out a cry of alarm. He desperately swung his sword back to meet Jiang Tiantao's lightning-fast descending Stars of Beauty sword. Unwilling to sever Dichun's weapon with his own, Jiang Tiantao switched to "Stars Shifting and Dipper Moving," aiming directly at Dichun's shoulder.

Dichun hadn't expected Jiang Tiantao's swordsmanship to be so wondrous, and his changes so incredibly swift. Suddenly, he saw a dazzling display of light, carrying wisps of sword whistling and a bone-chilling cold, hurtling towards his face. Knowing he couldn't dodge this attack, he decided to fight to the death! With his mind made up, he roared and charged at Jiang Tiantao, sword and all. Jiang Tiantao, caught off guard by Di Chen's desperate attempt to take him down with him, was startled. He spun around, narrowly avoiding Di

Chen, risking a daring slide behind him. Di Chen, already intent on killing Jiang Tiantao, raised his left palm the instant Jiang Tiantao passed him, striking down with lightning speed towards Jiang Tiantao's shoulder. Master Hongchen, already sensing the danger of Di Chen's reckless attack, was now filled with shame, shock, and rage at this sudden, deadly strike.

He cried out, "No…!" But it was too late. Jiang Tiantao, enraged, had already seized Master Di Chen's left wrist with a powerful "Li Wang Li Ta" move. Immediately following, a disdainful shout rang out: "Daoist Master, you are far too arrogant!" With that word, a powerful thrust sent Di Chen groaning as he staggered forward at great speed. Just then, a yellow shadow flashed, accompanied by a loud shout. Hou Ruping, the top swordsman of Wudang, who had been watching from the sidelines, leaped forward to catch him.

However, Jiang Tiantao's push was fierce, and Di Chen's momentum was immense. Combined with Hou Ruping's forward lunge, a loud thud followed by a series of thuds ensued. Hou Ruping lost his footing and finally landed heavily on his backside. Di Chen also collapsed on top of Hou Ruping, immediately demonstrating a true "Hungry Tiger Pouncing on a Sheep" move.

Upon seeing this, Master Hongchen's face flushed crimson, and he remained speechless for a long time. Master Dichen, bracing himself with his left arm, leaped to his feet, glaring venomously at Jiang Tiantao, his face turning ashen with rage. Jiang Tiantao, disgusted by Master Dichen's sneak attack, gave a cold laugh and said in a deep voice, "I was caught off guard; I hope Master won't mind." Without even glancing at Dichen, he sheathed his sword with a "whoosh."

Just as he returned the sword to its sheath, a deafening shout rang out from Dichen: "Trap him!" The shout had barely faded when a yellow shadow flashed, and the "Four Swordsmen of Wudang" leaped out, their brows furrowed and eyes wide with fury, immediately surrounding Jiang Tiantao. Then, flashes of cold light and clanging sounds followed as four gleaming longswords were simultaneously drawn from their sheaths.

Upon seeing this, Jiang Tiantao was instantly enraged, letting out a loud, furious laugh. Then, with an extremely contemptuous laugh, he said, "I have long heard of your sect's 'Four Symbols Sword Formation,' so solid and incomparably won, invincible in battle. Tonight, I have personally experienced your sect's unique skills and benefited immensely. I am truly fortunate." He paused, then turned to look at Daoist Hongchen, continuing with a meaningful tone, "Your sect's 'Four Symbols Sword Formation' relies entirely on close cooperation and flexible coordination. However, the Six Yin numbers, with the water element at its weakest point, are its most vulnerable point. Attacking the Lesser Yang with wood to ignite fire, and luring the Lesser Yin with earth to overcome metal, will immediately break the formation. I wonder if Daoist Hongchen has corrected this weakness in your sect's sword formation?" Upon hearing this, the three Wudang disciples and the four great swordsmen all turned pale, their bodies trembling, for what Jiang Tiantao said was precisely the key to breaking the "Four Symbols Sword Formation."

Master Hongchen's heart skipped a beat, as if he suddenly understood something. He hurriedly asked, "May I ask, Young Master, who is your master?"

Jiang Tiantao, upon being asked about his master, immediately bowed respectfully and said, "My master is from Xizhou Peak of Mufu Mountain, and his Daoist name is 'Master of Haitang Cave'..."

Master Hongchen's heart trembled upon hearing this, and he hurriedly asked again, "Is she the Jiangnan Heroine of yesteryear?"

Jiang Tiantao immediately nodded respectfully and said, "That's right, that was my master's elegant name when he roamed the martial world."

Upon hearing this, Master Hongchen immediately bowed and said, "In the past twenty years, only one person has been able to break free from the Four Symbols Sword Formation created by our sect, and that person is none other than your master, the 'Jiangnan Heroine.' As the saying goes, a great teacher produces a great student. The Four Symbols Sword Formation naturally cannot hold the Young Master. It is already late tonight. Tomorrow at the grand gathering, I will again seek your guidance."

Jiang Tiantao raised his sword-like eyebrows slightly and laughed heartily, "I have stated before that our sect has no intention of striving for advancement. " Hongchen

frowned, looking quite puzzled, and asked, "Why does the young master of the fortress show such deference?"

Jiang Tiantao immediately bowed respectfully and said, "The main reason my father did not contend with the other sects in the past was because he respected your sect's previous leader, 'Master Xuanling,' who tirelessly traveled throughout the martial arts world and was a highly respected senior. Therefore, I respectfully obey my father's wishes and remain in my original position, hoping to sit next to you, Daoist, so that I may learn from you."

The Three Dusts of Wudang, the Four Great Swordsmen, and dozens of Daoists were all deeply moved, and all admired the magnanimity and humility of the "Land Dragon" Old Master Jiang! Daoist Hongchen hurriedly bowed and loudly proclaimed his sword title, saying, "Your father, Old Master Jiang, is renowned throughout the land and praised throughout the martial arts world. Heroes and chivalrous figures from both the righteous and the wicked have bestowed upon him the elegant title 'Land Dragon,' which the old master truly deserves." "Tonight, Young Master Jiang has graced us with his presence. We should have prepared a grand feast to express our gratitude, but alas, our camping here is rather simple, and it is inconvenient to keep you here. We hope Young Master Jiang will understand."

Jiang Tiantao smiled modestly and said, "It was already inappropriate of me to visit you so presumptuously, how could I dare to disturb you further? Please forgive my rudeness earlier, three Daoist priests. I will take my leave now." With that, he cupped his hands and bowed deeply.

Wudang Sanchen hurriedly returned the bow, and at the same time said loudly, "Young Master Jiang, please take your time. We will not see you off any further." As soon as he finished speaking, musical instruments began to play, and the clear and melodious music floated in the air. Dozens of old Daoists raised their hands and stood respectfully to see him off.

Jiang Tiantao straightened up after bowing, said "Please stop," and walked straight towards the entrance of the narrow valley. As he walked, he looked up at the night sky and realized that it was almost midnight. He thought that Ma Yunshan and the others must have already discovered that he was not in the tent, and their anxiety was imaginable. Therefore, upon entering the narrow valley, he immediately used his light-footed skills, retracing his steps and speeding towards the camp.

Climbing the low peak behind the valley, he looked around and saw that the Jiugongbao camp was still lit up, as quiet as when he arrived, with the fort guards standing watch outside the forest, unmoved. Seeing this, Jiang Tiantao deduced that Ma Yunshan and the others might not yet know he had left Xiaolv Valley. So, he dashed down the low peak and headed straight for the sheer cliff at the edge of the valley. Before reaching the cliff, he suddenly saw a burly figure rise from among the rocks and pine trees, and a strong, low voice asked, "Is that the young fortress master?"

Jiang Tiantao recognized him as "Iron Crutch Shakes the Nine Provinces" Ma Yunshan and hurriedly apologized, "Senior Ma, it's me." As he spoke, he approached and saw that Ma Yunshan's face was solemn, filled with anxiety and unease.

Seeing that the young master had returned safely, Ma Yunshan was relieved. As soon as Jiang Tiantao stopped, he immediately asked with concern, "Did the young master go to the Wudang Sect?"

Jiang Tiantao blushed and said somewhat embarrassedly, "Let's talk when we get back."

Upon hearing this, Ma Yunshan immediately took out a small bamboo tube about four feet long from his waist, pressed a spring, and with a hiss, a flame shot straight into the night sky. Jiang Tiantao looked up and saw nine sparks explode with a "pop," which was the special pyrotechnic signal of the Nine Palaces Fortress. He knew that Ma Yunshan was notifying Jin Jianying and the others to return. So, the two of them rushed down and headed straight for the central sparse forest camp. When they reached the edge of the forest, the guards and soldiers all looked at Jiang Tiantao and Ma Yunshan with astonishment.

At this moment, Xue Danfeng, Wang Yanling, Zhu Caidie, and Deng Lizhu, who were guarding the camp, rushed out to greet them.

Upon seeing Jiang Tiantao, Zhu Caidie immediately complained, "Brother Tao, where did you go? You scared me to death! You didn't even tell me! I went to Brother Shi to look for you, but he said you didn't go at all."

Jiang Tiantao smiled at the four women but said nothing. Ma Yunshan, standing behind Jiang Tiantao, forced a smile and waved, indicating they should talk inside the council tent. So, the four hurried to the council tent. "Surpassing Bian Que" Xie Ganen was the first to return from the valley entrance, followed by Chen Zhenduo. However, seeing the expressions of Ma Yunshan and Zhu Caidie, the two only nodded to the smiling Jiang Tiantao without saying anything.

Jiang Tiantao entered the brightly lit council tent. The first thing he saw was a stack of various large red invitation cards on the table in front of the large chair. Reaching the chair, he didn't even sit down before immediately looking down and flipping through the invitation cards. Each invitation card had a symbol representing its respective sect on its cover.

The top one was a visiting card from Shaolin Temple, its cover bearing a Kunlun monk's hat with a golden Buddha character in the center. The second one was a visiting card from the Beggars' Sect, depicting a beggar's bag and a dog-beating stick, with eight golden characters written on either side of the symbol: "Eating from all corners of the world, begging from all directions." Jiang Tiantao read it and couldn't help but smile.

At this moment, the great swordsman of Qilu, Jin Jianying, Little Li Guang, Zhong Qing, and Jin Tou Ao Ning Daotong also entered, but after observing the scene in the tent, the two exchanged a glance with Ma Yunshan and the others, and immediately and quietly sat down in their seats. Jiang Tiantao continued flipping through the visiting cards, which listed: Emei, Kunlun, Diancang, Qiongxia, Hengshan, Wudang, Snow Mountain, Changbai, Kongtong, Huashan, Sanchai, Dahuangzhuang, Feiyun Valley, Longdao Society, Juedu Sect, Yuemeng Lake, Langya Island, Wula Sea, Turpan, Niangzizhai, Motianling, Dahong Mountain…

When he reached Dahong Mountain, Jiang Tiantao specifically looked at the symbol drawn on Zhang Shitou's visiting card. Upon closer inspection, it turned out to be a large rock, and he couldn't help but laugh heartily. Just as he was laughing happily, a deep, resonant, and powerful voice suddenly came from outside the tent: "You little brat, I, Baldy, went all the way to town, to all the colorful places, to find you, and you've come back first!"

Before the words were finished, Flying Dragon Deng Zhengtong had already rushed in from outside the tent. Upon hearing the words "colorful and shady," Deng Lizhu knew her father had gone to a dangerous place, and her face flushed red. She immediately scolded, "Father..."

Deng Zhengtong entered the tent and saw the solemn expressions of everyone, sensing something was amiss. Seeing his beloved daughter's blushing face, he mistakenly thought he had forgotten to change his form of address again, and hurriedly clasped his hands in a fist salute with Jiang Tiantao, saying humbly, "Young Master went out just now, and your subordinates searched for him in vain..." Before he finished speaking, Ma Yunshan and the others could no longer help but laugh.

Jiang Tiantao quickly bowed and said with a smile, "Senior Deng, please have a seat." Deng Zhengtong responded softly and sat down in a chair opposite Ma Yunshan's table.

Seeing that everyone was present, Jiang Tiantao immediately placed the unread visiting cards beside the table, faced Ma Yunshan, and asked, "Have our visiting cards been delivered to the leaders of each sect?"

Ma Yunshan immediately bowed and said, "As soon as the young master arrived at noon, Brother Xie immediately sent people to deliver the visiting cards. These visiting cards were sent after each sect received the young master's card."

Jiang Tiantao suddenly seemed to understand and said, "Oh, no wonder Daoist Hongchen said he had just arrived from his journey; it turns out he was referring to our visiting cards..." "...

Before he finished speaking, Flying Dragon Deng Zhengtong slapped his thigh and exclaimed excitedly, "Kid, did you go to find those three Taoist priests from Wudang Sect?"

Jiang Tiantao blushed and nodded embarrassedly, "That's right..."

Upon hearing this, Deng Zhengtong slapped his thigh again and said, "Quickly tell me what happened."

Jiang Tiantao first explained his purpose in going to the Wudang camp, to let Hongchen and the others know that the Lixing Sword Technique was no less powerful than the Wudang Zhenshan Sword Technique, so that they would no longer boast and slander Jiugongbao. Then, he recounted his journey to the Wudang camp in detail.

Upon hearing this, Deng Zhengtong exclaimed with extreme excitement, "Kid, you're really something! You've finally vented the anger I've been holding in for years!"

Seeing her father still calling her "kid," Deng Lizhu chided him again, "Dad, you've forgotten what you said yourself!"

Deng Zhengtong slapped his bald head, self-deprecatingly saying, "I've forgotten again!"

Ma Yunshan and Jin Jianying frowned, saying worriedly, "Brother Deng, what if you forget again at the assembly tomorrow…?"

Upon hearing this, Flying Dragon Deng Zhengtong immediately straightened up, "You really think I'm so useless? Let me tell you, at tomorrow's assembly, I'll be more polite than any of you…" Before he finished speaking, a burst of cheerful laughter erupted throughout the tent! The stars shifted, the fish belly appeared,

and dawn broke again. The clamor of voices and the neighing of horses awakened Jiang Tiantao from his sleep. He knew that the heroes from all over the world who came to attend the Dragon Head Assembly had begun to flock to Xingzi Mountain from the foothills. He rose quickly, hastily washed and dressed, and ate breakfast in his tent before sitting cross-legged to regulate his breathing.

Meanwhile, throughout the small green valley, apart from Chen Zhenduo quietly directing nearly a hundred guards in preparation for the meeting, Ma Yunshan, Deng Zhengtong, and others were all in their individual tents, conserving their energy and regulating their breathing, preparing to face formidable opponents from various factions at the main hall at noon. As soon as Chenshi (7-9 AM) passed, those who had accompanied Jiang Tiantao to the meeting immediately gathered in the council tent.

Jiang Tiantao was in high spirits, Ma Yunshan and the others were full of energy, and Xue Danfeng, Wang Yanling, Zhu Caidie, and Deng Lizhu were radiant with bright eyes. They took their seats in order and reviewed the matters decided the previous night before, then immediately emerged from the tent. Jiang Tiantao, dressed in a scholar's cap and blue robe, with a beautiful sword at his waist, was handsome, dashing, and exceptionally distinguished.

Xue Danfeng, dressed in white, and Wang Yanling, dressed in yellow, resembled fairies descending to earth, following

closely behind Jiang Tiantao. Zhu Caidie, in a bright red outfit, a short sword cloak, and a three-foot-long sword with a blood-red hilt and tassel, stood firmly to Jiang Tiantao's left, ready to defeat all swordsmen and make a name for herself at the grand gathering. However, her true intention was to let the heroes of the world know that she was assisting Jiang Tiantao instead of her senior brother Zhang Shitou, the "Master of Dahong Mountain," because she was now the undisputed young mistress of "Jiugongbao"!

Deng Lizhu, dressed in a scarlet satin outfit and gold-plated embroidered boots, carried a vermilion slingshot and had a silver-embroidered quiver at her side, standing firmly to Jiang Tiantao's right. Although her thoughts differed from Zhu Caidie's, their goals were the same: not only to bring glory to Jiugongbao at the gathering and win Jiang Tiantao's favor, but also to make her superb archery skills stand out from the crowd and astound everyone. Especially to let the heroes of the world know that although "Flying Dragon" Deng Zhengtong had no son, he had a beautiful daughter with

unparalleled archery skills and a face as delicate as a flower. "Iron Crutch Shakes the Nine Provinces" Ma Yunshan wielded a heavy iron crutch, while "Flying Dragon" Deng Zhengtong carried a heavy iron weight weighing over a hundred catties. "The Two Heroes of Qi and Lu" Jin Jianying, dressed in flowing yellow robes, had a gleaming silver whip wrapped around his waist that he rarely used. "Little Li Guang" carried his famous red-tasseled short spear, while "Golden Turtle Head" Ning Daotong carried a dart pouch and a large gold-backed single-edged sword on his shoulder. Walking alongside him was "Surpassing Bian Que," carrying a medicine chest. Although this group was small, they were all top-notch masters who were once famous and renowned in their time! Among them, only Chen Zhenduo commanded the fortress guards, and "Surpassing Bian Que" was responsible for medical care and did not intend to engage in combat. The others were more than enough to handle.

Upon arriving outside the sparse forest, more than thirty-four strong horses had already been prepared and were led by burly fortress guards. A tall fortress guard held a large, five-foot-square blue satin banner in both hands. At the center of the banner was a large silver ring, surrounded by eight smaller silver rings, and the edges were adorned with silver tassels. In the bright sunlight, it shimmered, both magnificent and solemn. This banner was the representative flag of "Jiugongbao" and the symbol of entry to the Dragon Head Assembly.

Upon seeing Jiang Tiantao and the others emerge, Chen Zhenduo immediately ordered the guards to bring their horses. Jiang Tiantao took Xiaoqing from a servant, and once Zhu Caidie, Ma Yunshan, and the others had their horses, he immediately mounted.

The dozens of guards remaining in the camp cheered excitedly, "Congratulations to the young fortress master on your victorious campaign! May your steeds achieve immediate success!"

Jiang Tiantao sat upright on his horse, a humble smile on his face, raising his right arm and nodding repeatedly. Then, led by the flag-bearer, he rode out of the Qingzhu Camp gate and headed straight for the mountain pass. Leaving the mountain pass, they turned onto the designated mountain path and galloped deeper into the mountains. It was nearly dawn, and all the heroes who had come to witness the conference had already entered the venue. Those now entering the mountainous area were mostly leaders and their masters from various sects. Passing through a dense pine forest and climbing a horizontal ridge, they saw about twenty-four strong horses galloping along the valley below.

Jiang Tiantao looked closely and saw that the person carrying the flag on the first horse was a robust old Taoist priest in a gray robe. The large banner the old Taoist priest carried had a gray-green surface and dark green border, with three long swords depicted in the center, their tips touching, forming a V-shape. Behind the banner, on the first horse, was a middle-aged man carrying a sword, neither conventionally handsome nor unconventional. Hearing the sound, Deng Lizhu slowly reined in Xiao Hong, turned to look at her father, her beautiful face filled with anger.

Deng Zhengtong immediately shouted, "Why are you arguing about this? You can teach them a lesson in front of all the heroes later..."

Zhu Caidie interjected indignantly, "Senior Deng, do you know which level the Qiongxia Sect is?"

Deng Zhengtong pondered for a moment and said, "The third level, the first is the blue lacquered chair." As he spoke, they arrived at where Deng Lizhu had stopped her horse. Deng Zhengtong immediately waved his hand, signaling his beloved daughter to follow behind Jiang Tiantao's horse, who was smiling at her.

After Deng Lizhu angrily spurred her horse into the ranks, Zhu Caidie continued to ask, puzzled, "Didn't Senior Ma say that according to the tournament rules, we can't challenge those of higher ranks?"

Ma Yunshan, who was frowning and watching the Qiongxia Sect vying for the lead, immediately explained, "New Dragon Leaders are exempt from this rule."

Deng Lizhu asked with concern, "Senior Ma, do you think the Qiongxia Sect will challenge us?"

Ma Yunshan replied without hesitation, "Given the situation, of course they will challenge us. Otherwise, if they saw our 'Nine Palaces Fortress' flag, they should have stopped at the crossroads and let us pass first. If they didn't want to meet us, they could have slowed down." As he spoke, the Qiongxia Sect's cavalry had already rushed into the main road, and "Fallen Flower Swordsman" Shan Yutian's horse was only two or three feet away from Jiang Tiantao.

Jiang Tiantao quietly watched the Qiongxia Sect's cavalry gallop past like a whirlwind. His handsome face was expressionless except for a slight smile. Following the Qiongxia Sect, they galloped around peaks and valleys for a while, finally reaching the wide, dry, pebble-lined riverbed. Crossing the river, they saw several middle-aged monks in grey robes and yellow kasayas draped diagonally at a gap in the cliff below. The Qiongxia Sect members ahead paused briefly before entering the gap.

Jiang Tiantao spurred his horse forward; when they were still several feet from the gap, the monks had already clasped their hands in prayer position. One of them announced loudly, "Third-generation disciples of Shaolin are here to respectfully welcome the Young Master."

Jiang Tiantao hurriedly reined in his horse, cupped his hands in a humble manner, and said, "I dare not accept such praise; all the masters have worked hard."

The monk in the center thanked him and continued, "The sign at the entrance to your fortress reads 'Bing Ding Huo.' Please proceed from here, following the southern foot of the first peak, and you will arrive." Jiang Tiantao thanked him again and immediately spurred his horse forward. He passed through the gap and circled around to the fourth peak. The terrain gradually rose, resembling a sloping ridge. At the same time, he heard a clamorous roar of voices!

After advancing several dozen feet, he discovered that on the summit of the sloping ridge, there was indeed a white-lacquered wooden sign with six large black characters written on it: "Bing Ding Huo, Jiugong Fortress." At the same time, about twenty or thirty feet to the left and right of the sign, mounted experts from other sects, along with their representative flags, had already gathered. When they reached the sign and looked down, their eyes lit up. Below the sloping ridge, countless faces flickered, and thousands of heads darted about, a kaleidoscope of red, green, and other colors—it was a large, basin-shaped green valley several hundred feet in circumference. At first glance, the sight was dazzling. There were at least 30,000 heroes from all over the land, more than ten times the number of martial arts figures at the "Golden-Faced Nezha" martial arts gathering at Dahong Mountain. This clearly demonstrated the extraordinary nature of the "Dragon Head Assembly," held every five years and causing a sensation throughout the martial arts world.

Jiang Tiantao looked around more closely and saw that the 30,000 heroes in the valley were seated in rows and columns on the east, west, and south sides, without any disorder. Numerous passageways were built from the edge of the valley, leading directly to the sloping ridge peak, so at a glance, the assembly hall appeared orderly. In particular, at the end of each passageway was a wooden plaque belonging to the respective sect. Jiang Tiantao then noticed that there was a path leading to his horse, and it was located precisely in the center. On the north side of the valley, numerous colorful pavilions were erected in layers and levels.

The highest level has three colorful pavilions, the central one gold, the two flanking it gold and red. Each pavilion contains a large armchair draped in gold and red brocade, while the rest are gold and red high-legged stools. The second level has four colorful pavilions, all yellow, each with a large armchair draped in pale yellow brocade. The third level has five colorful pavilions, all blue; the fourth level has six, all silver-gray; the fifth level has seven, deep purple; and the sixth level has eight, all aquamarine. Across the six levels, there are thirty-three colorful pavilions, all empty, shimmering brilliantly in the bright sunlight, a truly magnificent sight. In the center of the valley is a flat plaza, about ten zhang in diameter, containing targets, plumb bobs, giant cauldrons, large stones, tall poles, and cloud-shaped beams—all equipment used for martial arts competitions.

Looking further, the arched ridges on the east, west, and south sides are filled with people and cavalry from various schools, their colorful banners fluttering, each bearing a different symbol. Some banners were embroidered with eagles, some with tigers, some with broadswords, and some with iron palms—a dazzling array of designs, each representing the martial arts prowess and prestige of its respective sect. The Three Beauties Gang boasted the largest contingent, with the most banners. Besides the three large banners of gold, silver, and jade, they had six more banners representing the inner and outer halls

, adding to their imposing presence. The three beauties, Gold, Silver, and Jade, rode three strong horses of yellow, white, and blue respectively, their banners forming a triangular pattern, attracting the attention of over 20,000 heroes who craned their necks to look. The entrance to the Great Flood Mountain was on the east side. The newly appointed leader, Zhang Shitou, dressed in a black satin outfit, rode the "Thunder Leopard," exuding confidence and style. Behind the banners were three horses: the "Red Flag Master," Meng Lechang; the "White Flag Master," Fu Yuqing; and the "Blue Flag Master," Sun Yuanhu. Behind the three banners of these three masters were another twenty or thirty strong horses, their riders presumably the incense masters and stewards of the Great Flood Mountain.

At this moment, the entire arena was bustling with people and filled with a cacophony of noise. On the arched ridge atop the hill, where colorful banners fluttered, the long neighs of spirited horses rose and fell. The equestrian masters from various factions of the Bangmen sect frequently glanced up at the nearly zenithing sun, for in just an hour or so, they would be entering the arena.

Jiang Tiantao, witnessing this magnificent, grand, and unprecedented scene, couldn't help but feel excited, his blood surging. Looking at the masters of various factions, seated high on their horses, so imposing and spirited, he saw that they were all people who had waited for many years, ready to display their skills at this Dragon Head Assembly. With this thought in mind, he unconsciously glanced at the colorful pavilions of various levels on the opposite sloping ridge, which were indeed incredibly tempting. Especially the three large chairs with gold and red brocade draped on the highest level—who wouldn't want to sit there?

Just then, the gray-clad old man, Chen Zhenduo, quietly approached the horse, bowed slightly, and whispered, "The grand gathering is about to begin. Please, young master, dine at the back."

Jiang Tiantao turned around and saw a temporary tent erected about seven or eight wen behind the horse, where a dozen or so guards were setting out wine and dishes. He nodded modestly, dismounted, and walked straight to the tent. Since it was highly likely that some people would immediately engage in combat after the gathering began, the wine in front of each person was only for raising a toast to each other in anticipation of victory.

After everyone finished their meal in a hurry, the Qilu Hero was the first to propose, "After the grand opening of the tournament, from noon until dusk, there will be battles for the newly promoted Dragon Leaders to maintain their positions and advance. Our fortress has the highest rank, so it's inevitable that the new leader of the Qiongxia Sect, 'Falling Flower Swordsman' Shan Yutian, will challenge our fortress..."

Deng Lizhu was still thinking about the Qiongxia Sect's usurpation, so she said indignantly, "If Shan Yutian dares to challenge Brother Tao later, I will definitely teach him a lesson!"

Jin Jianying waved his hand slightly and said humbly, "Dragon Leaders against Dragon Leaders, Attendants against Attendants. Miss, you can fight with some of his junior brothers. However, Qiongxia is a sword sect, and swordsmanship is their main focus, so Miss Zhu should fight the first round!" Zhu Caidie immediately nodded in agreement.

Jin Jianying continued, "The new leader of the Diancang Sect, 'White Bright Whip' Wei Jigao, is the leader of the Three Heroes of Diancang. Not only is his whip skill superb, but his palm power is also profound. The young fortress master should be careful." "The two heroes of Diancang, 'Shen Weichou, the 'Surpassing Chunyang,' are skilled with double crutches and possess astonishing arm strength. Brother Ma will be the one to fight..."

Before he could finish speaking, Flying Flood Dragon Deng Zhengtong immediately glared and said in a deep voice, "My strategist brother, don't forget about me, Baldy!"

Jin Jianying smiled faintly and said, "Brother Deng, don't be impatient. You should know that the real formidable opponents are the Six Elders of Emei on the first yellow lacquered chair of the second level. These six old monks dream of sitting on the third golden red chair, or even the second golden red chair, every single day. Because they can't get past the old fortress master, they are not qualified to challenge the second golden red chair."

Upon hearing this, Deng Zhengtong immediately said contemptuously, "With me, Flying Flood Dragon Deng, here, those six old bald donkeys will not be able to advance." Jin Jianying immediately said seriously, "

These are them: Bai Ling's Golden Gourd Staff, Bai Tong's Demon-Subduing Pestle, Bai Fan's Iron Zen Staff, Bai Hui's Convenient Shovel, and Bai Kong's Great Precept Knife. They are all heavy weapons weighing nearly a hundred catties. Only your brother's hundred-catty iron paddle can intimidate and repel the enemy."

Deng Zhengtong chuckled smugly, shaking his bald head, and said in a deep voice, "Brother, don't just boast about my bald head. To be honest, I really don't take the 'Six Elders of Emei' seriously."

Ma Yunshan immediately chimed in seriously, "The Emei Sect Leader, Zen Master Banting's forty-nine moves of the Jade Ruyi have not met an opponent for decades, except when he was slightly at a disadvantage against the old fortress master. " Jiang Tiantao understood Ma Yunshan's intention and immediately nodded in understanding.

Jin Jianying continued, "As for Zhang Shitou, the leader of Dahong Mountain, we're all friends..."

Before he could finish, Zhu Caidie immediately gave a coquettish snort and said, "Brother Shitou is the least ambitious. Last night I asked him what level he wanted to advance to, and guess what he said? Humph, he said that just having a chair at the Dragon Head Assembly and watching the excitement is enough; why bother competing with them for fame and position!" Everyone couldn't help but laugh upon hearing this.

Jin Tou Ao Ning said, "I'm afraid that even the chairs for watching the excitement will be squeezed out at the next assembly." Zhu Caidie let out a soft "

Oh," and immediately asked, puzzled, "Why? Senior Ning!"

Ning Daotong smiled and said, "The conference only has thirty-three seats. No matter how many sects or gangs are added, no more seats will be added. Therefore, if a newly established gang wants to join the Dragon Head Conference, it must first seize the last seat during the five-year recess to be eligible to challenge other higher-ranking sects at the conference."

Xiao Li Guang frowned upon hearing this and asked, confused, "According to what you're saying, Master Ning, wouldn't the sect holding the thirty-third seat spend the last five years in a constant state of readiness, never having a warm seat or a peaceful night?"

Ning Daotong immediately said seriously, "That's why the last seat is never occupied!" Upon hearing this, everyone laughed again.

Before the laughter subsided, a deafening cannon boom echoed through the mountains and fields, resounding throughout the conference. Immediately afterward, thirty thousand heroes erupted in a terrifying cheer that soared into the sky. Everyone was startled. Ma Yunshan immediately said to Jiang Tiantao, "Young Master, please take your place. The various factions are about to enter."

Upon hearing the sound, Jiang Tiantao rose, quickly adjusted his scholar's cap and blue robe, and hurried out of the tent. Reaching the tent, he saw that the various masters on the mountain peaks to the east, west, and south were all tense, mounting their horses and the sounds of galloping steeds echoing everywhere. Just as Jiang Tiantao reached Xiaoqing, a deafening cannon boomed from the northern peak, accompanied by a thick cloud of dust, and the cheers of the thirty thousand heroes in the valley grew even louder.

Ma Yunshan leaped onto his horse, urgently announcing, "Young Master, Master Yuantai, the head of the Shaolin School, is about to arrive!"

Jiang Tiantao mounted his horse and saw that all the heroes of the world had stood up. Inside the highest-ranking golden pavilion in the north, several monks in yellow robes stood solemnly to the left and right. At this moment, the crowd was excited, the noise boiling. The leaders and masters of various sects on the mountain peaks were all seated upright on their horses, awaiting their arrival.

With a thunderous boom, the third cannon fired. The entire valley of heroes fell silent. On the northern ridge peak, dozens of monks, clad in robes of various colors, marched in. Leading them was an elderly monk with frosty eyebrows and downcast eyes, a benevolent face, wearing a moon-white robe and a crimson brocade robe draped over his shoulders. The old monk had a ruddy complexion, his eyes gleaming softly, a tuft of silver beard flowing down his chest, a solemn expression, and steady steps as he walked towards the golden pavilion. Everyone knew that this kind-faced, virtuous monk was none other than Master Yuantai, the leader of the martial arts world and the presiding master of this gathering at Shaolin Temple. Behind Master Yuantai followed four elderly monks in bright red robes, while the remaining thirty or forty monks all wore apricot-yellow robes.

At this moment, the heroes of the valley all pointed at Master Yuantai and the other monks of Shaolin Temple in extremely soft voices. Master Yuantai entered the central golden pavilion and stood solemnly before a large chair draped in gold and red brocade. His left hand held prayer beads, and he immediately raised his right hand slowly. As soon as the master raised his right hand, a large, stout monk in an apricot-yellow robe, who had been waiting outside the pavilion, gathered his energy and shouted, "Enter!"

This shout, deep and resonant, reached the ears of everyone in the valley. As soon as the shout subsided, a thunderous applause filled the valley, and from the northern ridge peak, a slow, deep, resonant "dong dong" of drums resounded. Simultaneously, a cacophony of horse neighing rose from the ridge peaks on the east, west, and south sides. All the various factions waiting outside the wooden signposts spurred their horses down the path into the valley below.

Jiang Tiantao, reining in his horse, sat upright in his saddle and descended the path at a leisurely pace. All the heroes in the valley turned to look at him. Because this young master of "Nine Palaces Fortress," though only having completed his apprenticeship a few months ago, is already a renowned young hero, famous throughout the land and shaking the martial arts world. Especially noteworthy is that, before even reaching adulthood, he took over the prestigious Nine Palaces Fortress and entered the "Dragon Head Assembly," a feat that has undoubtedly made countless young masters envious. According to rumors, his martial arts are superb, his swordsmanship exquisite, his internal strength profound, and his palm techniques invincible; not only will he be able to maintain his current position, but advancement will be effortless.

Upon reaching the valley floor plaza, the various factions stood densely packed, facing due north, forming a concave shape, awaiting their names to be called and their positions taken! Standing to Jiang Tiantao's left and right were the Kongtong Sect on his left and the Changbai Mountain Sect on his right. The leader of the Kongtong Sect was a middle-aged Taoist priest with a golden-hooked Taoist crown, a long beard with five strands, two swords on his back, and dressed in a gray robe. The middle-aged Taoist priest, with bushy eyebrows and triangular eyes, sat upright on his horse, his face filled with disdain. He didn't even bother to glance at Jiang Tiantao, who was riding beside him.

Jiang Tiantao didn't need to ask Ma Yunshan and the others; he knew that the gray-robed old Taoist priest carrying two swords was none other than Xuanfei, the leader of the Kongtong Sect. Behind Xuanfei, a large banner was embroidered with two crossed longswords, with three blazing phosphorescent fireballs on the left, right, and center. Following Xuanfei were a group of both laymen and Taoists, most of them carrying swords. Among them were several striking young women who occasionally glanced at Jiang Tiantao's handsome face.

The leader of the Changbai Sect was a tall, imposing old man with a silver beard, frosty eyebrows, a flat head, and piercing eyes. The old man rode a yellow horse and wore a dark blue overcoat, obscuring the type of weapon he carried. Behind the old man rode burly men on tall horses, each with thick eyebrows and large eyes, all carrying oddly shaped weapons. They all appeared to be incredibly strong, and among them were a few beautiful and refined young women.

Jiang Tiantao knew that the red-faced old man must be Li Gongliang, the leader of the Changbai Sect, known as "Ten Thousand Character Double Winner." Although Li Gongliang and his disciples of the Changbai Sect did not display arrogant disdain, they did have an air of self-importance, as if they were the head of the sect. Other sects in front of him gave Jiang Tiantao cold looks, some ignored him, some looked at him with suspicion, and some gave him a haughty and contemptuous glance.

Jiang Tiantao didn't bother to observe these various expressions; his bright eyes were fixed on the fat monk in front of the Shaolin Sect's golden pavilion. Because he was responsible for calling out the names of all the sects participating in the Dragon Head Assembly and taking their seats. The purpose of calling out names and assigning seats was not only to let the heroes of the world know how many sects were present and which sects were absent, but also to avoid the chaos of rushing to take their seats.

Suddenly, a loud bell rang, and the slow, deep drumbeats immediately stopped.

Chapter Thirty-Three: The Dragon Head Assembly

Following the lingering echoes of the bells, the portly monk raised a large red list and proclaimed to the sky, "Wudang Sect, Headmaster 'Red Dust Daoist,' take your place..." The Wudang Daoists on horseback immediately responded with a roar of "Yes, sir!" and leaped off their horses. Among the thirty thousand heroes in the valley, those with ties to the Wudang Sect immediately erupted in cheers.

The cheers subsided slightly, and the portly monk, looking at the list, continued to proclaim, "Mufu Mountain, Jiugong Fortress, the new Fortress Master Jiang Tiantao, take your place..." Before the word "take your place" was even uttered, the thirty thousand heroes in the valley erupted in a thunderous cheer that shook the mountains and peaks, lasting for a long time and reaching the heavens. The portly monk,

high above, looked at the frenzied crowd of heroes in the valley. He shook his head vigorously, realizing his booming voice couldn't drown out the overwhelming cheers. The other sect leaders, some with ashen faces, some smiling at this martial arts prodigy, and others sighing at the emergence of a young hero, shook their heads in感慨. Jiang Tiantao, Zhu Caidie, Ma Yunshan, and others dismounted amidst the thunderous cheers, calmly advancing under the watchful eyes of hundreds of riders on either side. The gazes of the other sect leaders and experts followed Jiang Tiantao's retreating figure, and upon seeing him, their expressions changed.

They saw the Wudang Sect's leader, "Master Hongchen," along with two elders and the "Four Great Swordsmen of Wudang," still standing before the magnificent steps, not yet seated. The Three Dusts of Wudang, in particular, were all smiling and nodding frequently, clearly greeting Jiang Tiantao and waiting for the new master of "Nine Palaces Fortress" to ascend the steps at the same time.

Seeing this, Jiang Tiantao and Ma Yunshan quickened their pace. As Jiang Tiantao passed the Three Hairpins Gang, he noticed that apart from "Golden Hairpin" Fu Liying, who nodded slightly and forced a smile, "Silver Hairpin" Huangfu Xiang and "Jade Hairpin" Xiao Xiangzhen were both moved to tears. Of course, Jiang Tiantao was unaware that among the 30,000 heroes of the Three-Sided Ridge, there stood a stunningly beautiful young woman, also excitedly shedding tears.

As Jiang Tiantao passed the Da Hongshan team, Zhang Shitou, riding the "Thunder Leopard" horse with a large belly, was grinning at him and giving him a thumbs-up. But when Jiang Tiantao looked up, he discovered that "Divine Whip" Zhao Peifeng and his son, and "Double Pen Judge" Wei Changshun, were also in the Da Hongshan team, smiling and nodding at him. Upon seeing Zhao Peifeng, Jiang Tiantao hastily and humbly cupped his hands in

greeting as he hurried forward. Reaching Wudang Sanchen, he quickly returned the greeting and exchanged pleasantries. Wudang Sanchen, with a humble expression, bowed with one palm, just as he would with "Land Dragon" Jiang the Fortress Master, Songhe the Old Daoist, and the four great swordsmen, all standing respectfully to one side. Deng Zhengtong, who usually showed no courtesy to Wudang Sanchen, made an exception and nodded and smiled. "Red Dust Daoist" on the right and Jiang Tiantao on the left, the two ascended the high steps side by side, with the rest following behind them in single file.

Anyone could see that without the "Nine Palaces Fortress" as a barrier in Wudang's path, the Wudang Sect's throne would have long been in jeopardy. This was tantamount to pouring cold water on the heads of the newly arrived Longshou Qiongxia Sect and the Diancang Sect. Even the usually arrogant "Four Swordsmen of Wudang" lost their arrogance upon seeing Jiang Tiantao of Jiugongbao, which speaks volumes about Jiang Tiantao's swordsmanship. However, precisely because of this, Diancang and Qiongxia were even more unwilling to be outdone, determined to challenge Jiang Tiantao even at the cost of humiliation at the grand assembly.

The Six Elders of Emei were deeply angered, their anger seeping into their hearts. Especially after seeing Ma Yunshan, Deng Zhengtong, Jin Jianying, and Jin Tou'ao following behind Jiang Tiantao—all renowned top-tier martial artists whose prestige was enough to place them among the leaders of the martial arts world—they had become Jiang Tiantao's subordinates. Therefore, their hopes of advancing to the third Golden Red Chair seemed slim and uncertain. Jiang Tiantao and Daoist Hongchen first paid their respects to Master Yuantai, exchanging pleasantries. Then, Hongchen led the Wudang sect to the right, while Jiang Tiantao led Zhu and Deng, along with Ma Yunshan and Xiao Li Guang, to the left.

At this moment, cheers erupted from the crowd, the fat monk calling out names, and the various sects below them entered the decorated pavilion in order to take their seats.

Jiang Tiantao, seated on the Golden Red Chair, looked down and saw the "Three Beauties Gang's" pavilion right beneath his feet. Even now, Jiang Tiantao knew that the "Three Hairpins Gang" held the fourth chair, two levels higher than the others, at the Dragon Head Assembly. Moreover, they were so close they could converse. "Golden Hairpin" Fu Liying smiled humbly at Jiang Tiantao, while Huangfu Xiang sat sullenly on a high stool behind Fu Liying, seemingly secretly angry. "Jade Hairpin" Rainbow Dragon Girl Xiao Xiangzhen, under the guise of waving to Wang Yanling, Xue Danfeng, Zhu Caidie, and Deng Lizhu, secretly gave her lover a deep glance.

Just then, a loud "clang" resounded from the mountain peak behind them. Immediately, the 30,000 heroes of the valley fell silent, though a low, murmuring discussion still lingered.

Jiang Tiantao looked down and saw that all the sects and factions participating in the Dragon Head Assembly had taken their places in order. Then, all the sect leaders and masters unanimously thanked Master Yuantai of the Shaolin Sect for his hard work in preparing for the assembly. Immediately afterwards, the various sects stood facing each other, exchanging clasped fists in greeting. Once the greetings were complete, Master Yuantai rose from his golden-red chair and slowly surveyed the densely packed crowd of heroes on the east, west, and south sides. At this moment, the entire valley of heroes fell silent, all their piercing gazes fixed on Master Yuantai, like shimmering jewels filling the valley.

Master Yuantai first clasped his hands in a salute, then gathered his energy from his dantian and proclaimed in a clear voice: "I sincerely thank you for your esteemed presence, having traveled far and wide from all corners of the land to participate in the Dragon Head Assembly hosted by our sect. However, due to the limited time and the small number of disciples in our temple, there may be shortcomings in the organization of the venue and the division of areas. I ask for your understanding." He paused, then bowed again, clasping his hands in a salute. A thunderous applause erupted from the crowd.

After the applause subsided, Master Yuantai continued in a loud voice: "The purpose of the Dragon Head Assembly is to unite all sects and factions under heaven into one, hoping to share weal and woe, help each other, join hands to defend the righteous path, like brothers, and prevent the recurrence of the martial arts catastrophe, so that the world may enjoy peace—..." Before he finished speaking, another round of enthusiastic applause erupted.

After the applause subsided, Master Yuantai continued in a loud voice: "The Dragon Head Assembly is divided into levels and grades, aiming to encourage all sects and factions to strive for progress, so as not to let the martial arts world decline, and to hope that they can learn from each other and develop more exquisite martial arts techniques." He paused, glanced down at the list in his hand, and continued in a loud voice: "The reason why this assembly is being held two years earlier is because the old master of Jiugong Fortress, the 'Land Dragon' Jiang, has retired, and the master of the fortress has been succeeded by his son, Jiang Tiantao." "At this point, Jiang Tiantao immediately stood up from his chair as required, and bowed respectfully to the assembled heroes.

Upon seeing Jiang Tiantao rise, the crowd erupted in a thunderous cheer that shook the mountains. After bowing, Jiang Tiantao sat down, and the cheers subsided. 'Master Yuantai' then announced the names of the leaders of Diancang, Qiongxia, and Dahong Mountain. The heroes responded with enthusiastic cheers. Master Yuantai finished his announcement and also sat down.

The portly monk immediately shouted to the sky, 'The new Dragon Leaders are advancing...' As soon as the shout subsided, the entire valley erupted in a roar of excitement.

The horses that had entered the arena were already being led back to the entrance on the mountaintop by their attendants. The horses, seeing the crowd, occasionally let out a long neigh, further emphasizing the tense atmosphere of the assembly. The discussions among the heroes of the valley grew increasingly heated, while the masters within the thirty-three decorated pavilions fell silent." A moment passed, and no one stepped forward to challenge.

Jiang Tiantao sat quietly on the large chair draped in gold silk, while Xue Danfeng and Wang Yanling looked around curiously. Zhu Caidie seemed deep in thought, and Deng Lizhu's slender fingers occasionally flicked her vermilion slingshot, suppressing her eagerness to show off her skills. Ma Yunshan, leaning on his iron crutch, secretly observed the activity in each of the pavilions, his piercing eyes fixed on them. Deng Zhengtong occasionally let out a soft hum, seemingly growing impatient.

Just then, a figure flashed out from a blue pavilion in the center of the third level. The entire valley of heroes, already impatient, fell silent upon seeing someone leave their seats, their starry gazes all turning towards the first pavilion in the center of the third level. Jiang Tiantao and the others recognized him as Shan Yutian, the new leader of the Qiongxia Sect, known as the "Fallen Flower Swordsman."

Jin Jianying immediately whispered to Zhu Caidie, "Miss Zhu, please prepare."

Before he finished speaking, the "Fallen Flower Swordsman," standing in the center of the wide passageway, bowed slightly to Master Yuantai, who was seated on a large golden-red chair. He then flipped his wrist, raised his sword high to the sky, and announced loudly, "Qiongxia Sect's newly appointed leader, Shanyu Tian, based on the opinions of the entire sect, requests the assembly to grant him permission to advance to the next challenge." As soon as the word "challenge" left his lips, he swiftly extended his sword forward, then held it to his shoulder.

Master Yuantai clasped his hands and asked loudly, "Which sect does Leader Shanyu challenge?"

The "Fallen Flower Swordsman," Shanyu Tian, flashed a cold light in his eyes, then proudly declared, "Jiugong Fortress."

Upon hearing "Jiugong Fortress," the heroes of the valley immediately erupted in excited cheers that lasted for a long time, as if to say, "This is going to be quite a show!"

Master Yuantai immediately chanted a Buddhist prayer, saying, "The purpose of this advancement challenge is for friendly exchange and observation. During the exchange, all actions must be stopped at the point of contact. Anyone who kills will be executed, and anyone who injures will be immediately expelled from the arena. Does Sect Leader Shanyu understand?" The Fallen Flower Swordsman immediately replied loudly, "Our sect strictly adheres to the rules of this tournament. Master, please do not worry." With that, he raised his arm and flipped his wrist, and

with a whoosh, his longsword was sheathed. The portly monk immediately asked loudly, "Who from your sect will participate in the first battle?" As soon as he finished speaking

, a young Taoist priest with a high-tied topknot, wearing a gray robe and a longsword slung across his back, leaped out from the Qiongxia Sect's pavilion. The young Taoist priest bowed to Master Yuantai and announced loudly, "Wuzhen, the fourth disciple of the previous Qiongxia Sect leader, 'Master Xuanmu,' will participate in the first battle."

Master Yuantai gave a humble nod, and the portly monk immediately announced Wuzhen's lineage and Taoist name to all the heroes present. As soon as the fat monk finished his announcement, Wuzhen turned around and, amidst the cheers of the crowd, displayed the agile "Dragonfly Skimming Water" technique, leaping and landing three times to reach the main hall. Then, with a flick of his wrist, he bowed to the cheering crowd, sword in hand, and stood in the Hanli stance, awaiting his opponent.

At this moment, Jin Jianying had already written a note, which Xie Ganen delivered to the fat monk. The fat monk glanced at the note, his expression changing drastically. He glanced anxiously at Zhu Caidie, who was tightening her grip on her sword. Master Yuantai didn't know who "Nine Palaces Fortress" had sent to fight, but judging from the fat monk's expression, he knew he was no ordinary expert. At this moment, the entire valley of heroes had fallen silent, all eyes fixed on the fat monk, seemingly eager to know who would accept the challenge.

The portly monk, somewhat excited, held up the slip of paper and announced loudly, "Jiang Tiantao, the newly appointed lord of Jiugong Fortress, has specially dispatched Zhu Caidie, the personal disciple of the Venerable Wuyou, the 'Master of Wuyou Cave' from Mount Fanjing, to participate in the battle." Upon hearing this, the assembled heroes immediately stirred with bewilderment, for very few among the heroes of the world knew who "Master Wuyou" was.

The portly monk excitedly announced again, "Wang Wei, 'Master Wuyou' is none other than the venerable 'Golden Blind Nun' of Mount Fanjing." The moment the words "Golden Blind Nun" were uttered, the assembled heroes were first stunned, then erupted in a thunderous roar that shook the very peaks.

Amidst the thunderous cheers of the assembled heroes, a red figure rose into the air before the colorful pavilion of Jiugongbao. Zhu Caidie, renowned for her light-footed skills, leaped from the highest pavilion, executing a move called "Colorful Phoenix Perching on a Branch," her arms outstretched, like a red cloud swooping down towards the main hall. The thunderous cheers suddenly ceased. All the heroes who had been shouting and applauding were stunned.

At this moment, all the heroes and masters of various sects and schools across the valley were stunned, forgetting to cheer. Their eyes were fixed on Zhu Caidie, who had risen from the mountain peak and was now swooping down. Zhu Caidie, head to toe, arms outstretched, descended with increasing speed. The short sword cloak draped over her back fluttered wildly in the wind, making a sharp, rustling sound. Because the valley was deathly silent, the sound of her clothes cutting through the wind was clearly audible to everyone. Upon reaching the valley floor, Zhu Caidie swiftly transformed into "Colorful Phoenix Returns to the Sky," circling the valley, flying lower and lower until she reached within three zhang of Wuzhen, who stood frozen, sword in hand. With a flick of her arms, she landed gracefully, without a sound.

The stunned heroes, upon seeing this, instantly regained their composure and erupted into a wild, explosive cheer, the sound shaking the mountains and reaching the heavens, the shouts lasting for a long time. Seated in the center of the grand golden-red chair was Master Yuantai, the Shaolin abbot, his fingers clasped around his prayer beads, his expression solemn, his long-eyed gaze fixed intently on the valley beneath his frosty brows. He seemed certain that the Qiongxia Sect was doomed to lose their first battle.

The Qiongxia Sect's leader, "Fallen Flower Swordsman" Shan Yutian, was pale, his face glistening with cold sweat, his eyes fixed on Zhu Caidie, seemingly oblivious to the thunderous cheers that filled the valley. He had already discerned that, based on Zhu Caidie's lightness skill, Wuzhen had no hope of victory. However, the truly decisive battle lay between the two sect leaders. He had heard Little Tyrant, one of the "Four Evils of the Han River," say that Jiang Tiantao's swordsmanship was learned from unorthodox methods, and that the Nine Palaces Fortress's renowned Lixing Sword Technique was less proficient than even the "Poisonous Lady's" son. With this thought in mind, a confident, cold smile flickered across his thin lips.

Jiang Tiantao frowned slightly, silently observing the scene. He couldn't help but be secretly surprised by the rapid progress of Zhu Caidie's lightness skill. Ma Yunshan, Deng Zhengtong, and the others exchanged glances and shook their heads in admiration. Only the radiant Deng Lizhu frowned, deep in thought, wondering how to outshine Zhu Caidie.

At this moment, Zhu Caidie, having already bowed to thank the cheering crowd, flicked her wrist, a flash of cold light, and her longsword was drawn from its sheath. The moment the sword was drawn, the cheers of the crowd ceased, and countless eyes focused on Zhu Caidie and Wuzhen.

Upon seeing Zhu Caidie's imposing figure, Wuzhen quickly composed himself, steeled himself, and assumed a fighting stance, proclaiming loudly, "Please prepare, young lady, I am about to unleash my attack."

Zhu Caidie's delicate face remained expressionless, and she coldly replied, "I am already prepared. Make your move."

Seeing that Zhu Caidie neither assumed a stance nor adopted any special posture, standing casually and seemingly disregarding him, Wuzhen was instantly enraged. He steeled himself, let out a loud shout, and thrust his longsword in a "White Snake Spits Its Tongue" move, aiming directly for Zhu Caidie's chest. Zhu Caidie stood motionless, waiting for Wuzhen's sword strike to materialize before suddenly retreating half a step. With a swift "Peacock Spreads Its Tail," her longsword flashed with light and shadow, blocking the attack with lightning speed. A clang rang out, sparks flew, and Wuzhen's sword was deflected.

Wuzhen had indeed put in considerable effort in swordsmanship. His sword missed its mark, and sensing danger, he shifted his forward lunge to the left, his right hand moving swiftly in a "Searching for the Snake in the Grass" move, aiming for Zhu Caidie's knee. This move was incredibly fast and clean, drawing cheers from those connected to the Qiongxia School. Zhu Caidie seemed to have anticipated this, quickly stepping forward and turning to the side, unleashing a "Reversed Golden Bell" strike, her arm powerful and heavy, secretly channeling seventy percent of her strength to strike Wuzhen's longsword head-on. Another clang of metal on metal, sparks flying, Wuzhen's right arm went numb, his sword nearly slipping from his grasp, and he staggered back two steps. The crowd cheered.

Just as Wuzhen retreated, Zhu Caidie let out a sharp cry, advancing and closing in with a "Great Roc Spreads Its Wings" move; a flash of cold light, and the tip of her sword was already at Wuzhen's face. Wuzhen was startled and nearly cried out in alarm. With a sudden burst of courage, he crouched down, defying the rule against injury during the grand gathering, and instead of retreating, advanced, wielding his sword and thrusting it fiercely at Zhu Caidie's abdomen. The assembled heroes, witnessing this desperate, suicidal attack, stirred with excitement and erupted in uproar.

At the same moment, Zhu Caidie's lithe body spun like lightning, her longsword flashing with a "pushing the boat with a flick of the wrist" technique. With a whoosh, Wuzhen's topknot flew off, his loose hair falling loose. The heroes erupted in cheers. Fearing Wuzhen would continue his relentless pursuit, Zhu Caidie, having landed her sword, leaped back three zhang, landing with a hasty salute, and loudly proclaimed, "You've yielded."

The Daoist Wuzhen blushed deeply, then turned ashen, gritting his teeth and glaring angrily at Zhu Caidie, neither returning the salute nor leaving the scene. Upon seeing this, the cheering crowd gradually quieted down.

Just then, an angry shout suddenly rang out from the Qiongxia Sect's pavilion: "Fourth Junior Brother, come back! Let your foolish brother, Jin Deshun, deal with her!" With the shout, a dark gray figure shot out from the Qiongxia Sect's pavilion, flying straight towards the arena along the central passage.

Jin Jianying glanced at it and immediately said to Ning Daotong, "Golden-Headed Turtle," beside him: "Brother Ning, go and exchange a few blows with him. Be careful of his phosphorus fire bullets."

Ning Daotong responded with a "Yes," and suddenly stood up, shouting deafeningly towards the arena: "Jin Deshun with poisonous phosphorus bullets, I'll deal with you!" With the shout, he leaped out, flying straight towards the arena along the right passage like a tiger descending a mountain.

Deng Lizhu was secretly angry that Jin Jianying hadn't sent her to participate. However, upon hearing the opponent's nickname, "Poison Phosphorus Bomb," she deeply admired Jin Jianying's thoughtful planning. According to the tournament rules, the winner of the second round could either substitute or not. But once someone had participated, they had to retreat. Given Zhu Caidie's martial arts skills, she certainly wouldn't take "Poison Phosphorus Bomb" Jin Deshun seriously. Since Jin Jianying had sent Ning Lao Biao Tou, he must have been confident of victory. Therefore, he raised his arm, performed a circular salute, and leaped towards the stage. The "Wuzhen" Daoist of the Qiongxia School also sullenly returned to the stage.

"Golden-Headed Turtle" Ning Daotong leaped to the valley floor and ran straight into the arena, simultaneously glancing at Jin Deshun, who had already established his defenses. Jin Deshun, in his thirties, dressed in a dark gray outfit, with thick eyebrows, large eyes, and a burly build, carried a strangely shaped sword with a red tassel, already drawn from its sheath. The brocade pouch on his left side was bulging, clearly filled with poison phosphorus bullets.

As the second junior brother of the "Fallen Flower Swordsman," the leader of the Qiongxia Sect, Jin Deshun was ruthless and narrow-minded. His purpose in appearing was to use the poison phosphorus bullets to burn Zhu Caidie, exposing her breasts and legs, embarrassing her on the spot, and regaining the face he lost in the first round. At this moment, seeing that Jiugongbao had suddenly replaced him with a ruddy-faced, frosty-browed, silver-bearded, bald old man resembling Niu Shan, he couldn't help but snort venomously, his anger growing even stronger.

Ning Daotong, nicknamed "Golden-Headed Turtle," had already devised a plan to deal with Jin Deshun. Upon arriving at the scene, he immediately clasped his hands in a respectful gesture and said humbly, "Greetings

, Master Jin..." Jin Deshun, in front of heroes from all over the land and leaders of various sects, dared not be too arrogant. He could only return the greeting with his sword and said in a deep voice, "Old Master, please don't be so polite. May I ask your name?"

Ning Daotong smiled amicably and said, "I am Ning Daotong. In the past, when I was a镖师 (bodyguard/escort) in Gansu, Shaanxi, and Suiyuan, my meddlesome江湖 (jianghu, the martial arts world) friends bestowed upon me a bandit nickname, 'Golden-Headed Turtle.'" The moment the words "

Golden Head Ao" reached Jin Deshun's ears, his expression changed drastically, and he froze. The assembled heroes near the edge of the arena erupted in cheers.

Ning Daotong, feigning ignorance of Jin Deshun's shocked expression, raised his arm and flicked his wrist, drawing his large, gold-backed single-edged sword from his back. The sword, once drawn, gleamed with a dazzling blue light and flashed with golden light, exuding a chilling aura. It was incredibly heavy and sharp, with a golden silk scarf tied to the hilt, fluttering in the wind. Master Yuantai, seated in the center of the large, gold-red chair, and the other sect leaders and experts all realized that the Qiongxia Sect's advancement depended entirely on the battle of its leader.

Ning Daotong, the "Golden Head Ao," was already seventy years old. During his time as a bodyguard, he had experienced countless perilous battles, and naturally, he didn't take the "Poisonous Phosphorus Bomb" Jin Deshun seriously. So, holding his sword in his right hand, he clasped his hands in a fist salute again, and with a calm and humble smile, said, "Master Jin, please offer your advice."

Jin Deshun stood there with his sword, like a puppet, seemingly oblivious to the constant mockery from the heroes of the valley. He was deep in thought, pondering how to deal with this battle-hardened and experienced Jin Tou'ao. Ning Daotong, being a man of great stature, saw Jin Deshun's gaze fixed on his old face and knew that the other was thinking of a plan. So, he smiled calmly and asked again with humility, "Master Jin, have you come up with a plan?"

Jin Deshun blushed and shouted, "Take this!" As soon as the word "attack" left his lips, his strangely shaped sword flashed, unleashing a move called "Wind and Clouds Descending," accompanied by a faint whistling sound, aimed directly at Ning Daotong's shoulder. Ning Daotong stood motionless, his large, golden-backed single-edged sword held horizontally, his tiger-like eyes gleaming with sharp light as he carefully observed the approaching sword, preparing to strike decisively.

Jin Deshun knew Ning Daotong was a veteran of many battles and was therefore extra cautious. Seeing Ning Daotong's stillness and composure, he dared not strike with his sword fully, instead shifting his body slightly, swiftly changing to "Jade Belt Around the Waist," his right arm sweeping towards Ning Daotong's waist. Ning Daotong slightly turned his body, his gaze fixed on Jin Deshun's panicked, chubby face, still not retaliating, forcing Jin Deshun to hastily change his move again. The crowd of heroes in the valley burst into laughter at this sight.

Jin Deshun's fat face flushed red, and he flew into a rage, shouting, "You old scoundrel, you've gone too far!" With that shout, he leaped forward, his strangely shaped sword, wielding all its power, slashing down at Ning Daotong's bald head with a fierce whistle.

Ning Daotong laughed loudly, saying, "You should have done this long ago." As soon as he uttered the word "said," he swiftly performed the "Raising Fire to Burn the Sky" move, his golden-backed single-edged sword flashing like a silver ribbon, directly slashing at the descending strangely shaped sword. Swift as lightning, a clang of metal rang out, sparks flew, and a panicked cry erupted as a cold light shot straight into the sky—Jin Deshun's long sword had already flown from his grasp. The crowd of heroes cheered wildly, unable to resist shouting "Bravo!" at Ning Daotong's powerful move, which was as still as a virgin yet as swift as thunder. At the same time, they also realized that Jin Deshun's skill, swordsmanship, and experience were far inferior to Ning Daotong's.

Just as the crowd erupted in cheers, Jin Deshun, who had been retreating rapidly, hadn't even regained his footing when he flicked his wrist and launched a fist-sized fireball. The ball of flame, accompanied by a series of "whoosh" sounds, hurtled straight towards Ning Daotong's face. Upon seeing the phosphorus fireball, the crowd's cheers ceased abruptly; they were all stunned. Ning Daotong hadn't expected Jin Deshun to actually launch a phosphorus fireball. He dodged, and the phosphorus fireball, trailing a bluish-green flame, grazed past him. At the same moment he dodged, Jin Deshun had already launched a second phosphorus fireball into the air, and a third was already in his hand. Ning Daotong was shocked. He absolutely couldn't let Jin Deshun fire the third phosphorus bomb...

But, in that instant of shock, Jin Deshun gritted his teeth, steeled his resolve, and fired the third bomb with a flick of his wrist. Ning Daotong had no time to think. He roared, rolled on the ground, and swiftly executed the "Rolling Blade" technique, his blade flashing like a giant embroidered ball filled with blades. In a single roll, he was already in front of Jin Deshun. Just then, a loud bang echoed in the air as the two phosphorus bombs collided in mid-air, exploding into a shower of blue-green flames like a rain of flowers.

At that moment, Ning Daotong was already behind Jin Deshun. With a furious snort, he stood up, grabbed Jin Deshun by the back of his shirt, and shouted, "Go!" With that shout, he forcefully lifted Jin Deshun and shoved him towards the spot where the phosphorus flames were falling.

Jin Deshun hadn't expected Ning Daotong's "Rolling Blade" to be so incredibly fast. The third phosphorus bomb had barely been launched, and before he could even leap back, his opponent had already rolled behind him. At that moment, his collar was grabbed from behind, and he couldn't dodge in time. He hadn't expected Ning Daotong to shove him towards the phosphorus-sparkling, blazing grass. Jin Deshun was utterly shocked; his face turned ashen, and he let out a terrified, ear-piercing scream. Just as he screamed in terror, an unparalleled force slammed him onto the hissing, burning grass.

Jin Deshun's face was ashen, covered in cold sweat; he was terrified out of his wits. In a panicked scream, he covered his face with his arms, curled into a ball, and rolled off the field. Among the assembled heroes in the valley, many had suffered humiliation at the hands of Jin Deshun due to his fear of his poisonous phosphorus bombs. Now, seeing him reap what he sowed, they were overjoyed, and with a deafening roar, a burst of intense, turbulent flames erupted. Jin Deshun, engulfed in flames, was in excruciating pain. Although he had rolled out of the inferno, blue smoke still billowed from his body, forcing him to continue rolling forward.

Just then, the newly appointed leader of the Qiongxia Sect, "Fallen Flower Swordsman," shouted and leaped down into the arena. Pointing his halberd at Ning Daotong, he angrily said, "Old Master Ning, you are of advanced age and high virtue, how dare you lower yourself to the same level as my foolish brother Jin Deshun?"

Ning Daotong clasped his hands in a fist salute and smiled faintly, "I am unworthy of the title 'advanced age and high virtue.' May I ask, Great Hero Shanyu, if I were covered in phosphorescent flames and rolling around on the ground, what would you say then?"

The Fallen Flower Swordsman's face flushed red, and he immediately retorted angrily, "I have never wanted to waste words. Let me first experience a few moves of the swordsmanship that made you famous, and the astonishing skills of your three golden darts." As he spoke, he flipped his wrist and with a clang, a golden light flashed like lightning, and the Qiongxia Sect's signature weapon was drawn from its sheath.

Upon seeing this, Ning Daotong let out a powerful and unrestrained laugh, then proudly proclaimed, "Great Hero Shanyu, your swordsmanship is exquisite. You've only been out of the game for a short time, yet you've already earned the nickname 'Falling Blossom Swordsman.' While I'd like to oblige, I'm unworthy today." The

"Falling Blossom Swordsman," upon hearing this, was startled, his face changing drastically, and he froze. He had seen his fourth junior brother's topknot shaved and his second junior brother pushed onto the phosphorescently burning grass inside the pavilion, his shame and rage having made him forget he was the leader of a sect. Hearing Ning Daotong's words, he was startled, glanced at the Golden Sword in his hand, and said in a deep voice, "I trouble the Chief Escort to invite your new fortress lord, Jiang Tiantao, down." As soon as he finished speaking, the crowd erupted in a thunderous cheer.

For some unknown reason, the "Fallen Flower Swordsman" glanced around and noticed that the heroes from the east, west, and south were all gazing at the colorful pavilion of Jiugong Fortress. Looking up, he saw Jiang Tiantao, dressed in a scholar's cap and blue robe, with the "Beautiful Star Sword" at his waist, walking towards the Shaolin sect's pavilion. Master Yuantai of Shaolin had already risen from his chair, and Master Hongchen, the Wudang sect leader under the left pavilion, had also risen.

Jiang Tiantao bowed to Master Yuantai, whose hands were clasped in prayer, then cupped his hands to Master Hongchen, who was bowing with a smile. He turned gracefully, cupped his hands again to the cheering crowd, and, with his left hand resting on his sword hilt, descended the colorful steps. Jiang Tiantao's steps were elegant, his blue robe fluttering, his eyebrows slightly raised, and a smile playing on his lips. Although his descent appeared slow, it was actually swift. Upon seeing this, the cheers of the crowd grew even louder.

Seeing Jiang Tiantao bow to Master Yuantai, who was presiding over the assembly, the Fallen Flower Swordsman suddenly remembered that he had forgotten to complete the final request procedure before his appearance. He felt a surge of anxiety, anger, and shame, and at the same time, a deep hatred for Jiang Tiantao. He was also furious that Daoist Hongchen had stood up to greet Jiang Tiantao, and he was determined to humiliate Jiang Tiantao and embarrass the old Daoists of the Wudang Sect. He believed that once the Nine Palaces Fortress was defeated, the Wudang Sect's top position would be in jeopardy, and the "Six Elders of Emei" would certainly not let the three old Daoists of Wudang Sect off the hook. Before he finished thinking this, Jiang Tiantao had already arrived in the arena, and the shouts of the crowd immediately ceased. Upon

seeing Jiang Tiantao, Ning Daotong immediately clasped his hands and brandished his sword, respectfully addressing him as "Young Master of the Fortress." Jiang Tiantao hurriedly returned the greeting, humbly saying, "Senior Ning, please return to your quarters to rest. Let me go and request a few moves of the secret techniques of Qiongxia from Master Shanyu." Ning Daotong bowed in agreement and turned to leave.

Jiang Tiantao bowed to the Fallen Flower Swordsman and said humbly, "I have long admired the Sect Leader Shanyu's swordsmanship, which is so exquisite that it shakes the southwest. Today, I am honored to be invited to teach him the ultimate skill. It is a long-cherished wish that has been fulfilled..." The

Fallen Flower Swordsman Shanyu Tian mistakenly thought that Jiang Tiantao really did not know the "Beautiful Star Sword Technique" and was therefore flattering him. So, before Jiang Tiantao finished speaking, he looked up at the sky and let out a wild and arrogant laugh. Thinking of Wu Zhen and Jin Deshun's humiliating defeats, he couldn't help but arrogantly proclaim, "Young Master Jiang's family has a long and distinguished tradition of martial arts. His 'Lixing Sword Technique' is unparalleled in the martial world, and I have long admired it. Now, I invite Young Master Jiang to demonstrate the Lixing Sword Technique so that I may broaden my horizons..." As he uttered the word "broaden," his arrogance was fully revealed. He deliberately swung his golden sword with a showy flourish, a golden streak of light accompanied by a buzzing sword hum. Then, with a sneer, he sarcastically addressed Jiang Tiantao, "Then, Young Master, please show us your sword!" Seeing Shan

Yutian's arrogant demeanor, Jiang Tiantao's brows furrowed immediately. He felt that with someone as impetuous, easily angered, and prone to fighting as Shan Yutian in charge of the Qiongxia Sect's long-standing lineage, the future was truly worrisome. Based on the Qiongxia Sect's earlier competition and the challenge after the ceremony, and now Shan Yutian's arrogance, he truly didn't understand why Shan Yutian so underestimated Jiugongbao.

Before he could finish his thought, he suddenly heard Shan Yutian give a cold laugh and say in a deep voice, "Jiang, why don't you dare to show your strength?"

Upon hearing the word "dare not," Jiang Tiantao felt a surge of anger, but considering Qiongxia's future reputation in the martial arts world, he immediately said in a deep voice, "Sect Leader Shanyu, as the head of a sect, your victory or defeat is tied to the honor and disgrace of the entire sect. In my opinion, you and I should exchange a few moves to complete the three-match rule..."

Upon hearing this, "Fallen Flower Swordsman" became even more convinced that "Little Overlord" was right, and thus, he laughed wildly again, then angrily said, "In that case, wouldn't my two junior brothers have been humiliated twice for nothing? Young Master Chi Buliangjian, could it be that you disdain to fight me?" He stepped forward, his golden sword striking with the move "White Snake Spits Venom," directly towards Jiang Tiantao, who had not yet drawn his sword.

The assembled heroes were greatly surprised and immediately erupted in a chorus of exclamations. Jiang Tiantao was instantly enraged. He hastily parried with a horizontal elbow strike, and with a clang, a dazzling display of power erupted. Amidst the swirling, shimmering swordplay, several sharp sounds rang out, sparks flying. Shan Yutian, attempting to block left and right, staggered backward, immediately thrown into disarray. Then, with a soft hiss, a cry of alarm erupted. "Falling Flower Swordsman" Shan Yutian, staggering, flew back three zhang. Looking down, his face turned ashen, and he broke out in a cold sweat. He saw a six-inch-long gash slashed across his neck and chest. Startled, he abruptly looked up, his eyes flashing with terror, fear, resentment, and hatred, fixed on Jiang Tiantao's handsome face.

Jiang Tiantao's sword-like eyebrows furrowed slightly, his face radiating murderous intent. He nodded forcefully and said in a deep, angry voice, "That's right. Someone as arrogant and conceited as you, without any sense, is someone I truly disdain to fight..." Having finished speaking, he swiftly drew his sword, sheathing it with a whoosh. Without even glancing at the fierce-looking Shan Yutian, he turned and walked gracefully towards the colorful steps.

Jiang Tiantao's sword strike—meeting, advancing, pursuing—sweeped Shan Yutian's chest with a single blow. Five movements, three sword techniques, swift as lightning, executed in one fluid motion. This incredibly fast and divine swordplay left none of the more than 30,000 masters in the arena able to discern his swordplay, leaving them all stunned. Only when Jiang Tiantao sheathed his sword and left did a sudden, earth-shattering, frenzied cheer erupt.

Just as the heroes cheered, the "Fallen Flower Swordsman," trembling with rage and his face ashen, suddenly roared, "Young Master Jiang, please stop!" With that, he strode towards Jiang Tiantao. The heroes, seeing this, immediately ceased their cheers, all staring at the Fallen Flower Swordsman in astonishment and confusion. Jiang Tiantao, hearing the noise stop

, turned to Shan Yutian and asked in a deep voice, "Great Hero Shan Yutian, did you call me to stop because you have something to ask me?"

Shan Yutian walked to within a foot of Jiang Tiantao and immediately asked in a deep voice, "What sword technique did you just use? Would you be willing to announce it to everyone?"

Jiang Tiantao, very displeased, said in a deep voice, "As the young master of Jiugong Fort, if I don't use the ancestral techniques of Jiugong Fort in front of all the heroes of the world, wouldn't I be laughed at?" Shan Yutian

smiled coldly, then angrily asked, "Which move, which style?"

Jiang Tiantao frowned and asked in a deep voice, "Judging from your tone, does the Great Hero Shanyu not believe that what I used was the 'Beautiful Star Sword Technique'...?" Before

he could finish speaking, the Fallen Flower Swordsman nodded vigorously and said indignantly, "That's right. It is said that your 'Beautiful Star Sword Technique' is not as exquisite as that of the son of 'Poisonous Lady' Zhang Lihua."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao laughed heartily and said, "For such a capable person as Great Hero Shanyu to believe such nonsense is rather thoughtless." He paused and then suddenly raised his voice, "Just now I used three sword techniques: sealing the sword was called 'Starry Sky,' advancing was called 'Comet Spark,' and cutting the clothes was called 'Nebula Lightning.' I was unable to stop in time just now, and I hope Great Hero Shanyu will forgive my rudeness." Having said that, he turned and walked straight towards the higher steps.

Just as he took a step, a loud shout suddenly came from the third pavilion on the third level: "Young Master Jiang, please stop!"

Jiang Tiantao looked up at the sound and saw a middle-aged man dressed in dark green, with a bright silver whip tucked into his back, hurrying towards the central passage. This was none other than Wei Jigao, the newly appointed leader of the Diancang Sect, known as "White Whip." Wei Jigao, standing in the center of the three-tiered platform, facing Master Yuantai of Shaolin, clasped his hands in a fist salute and bowed, proclaiming loudly: "The newly appointed leader of the Diancang Sect, following the unanimous opinion of our sect, requests the assembly to grant him permission to advance to the next level and challenge." As soon as the word "challenge" left his lips, he swiftly flipped his right wrist, immediately withdrawing the bright silver whip from his back, first extending it forward horizontally, then holding it against his shoulder.

Master Yuantai had already stood up, his brows furrowed, and returned the greeting with his palms together, asking, "Does Sect Leader Wei also intend to challenge Jiugongbao?"

"White Whip" Wei Jigao resolutely nodded, "That's right, our sect has chosen a mounted battle."

Master Yuantai hesitated slightly, saying, "Wild horses are difficult to control and can easily cause injuries or fatalities. Has Sect Leader Wei considered this..."

Wei Jigao raised his thick eyebrows and said in a deep voice, "Master, please rest assured, our sect has already considered this."

Master Yuantai nodded earnestly and said solemnly, "Very good, but I hope Sect Leader Wei is careful." Having said that, he waved to the large, fat monk outside the pavilion. The large, fat monk immediately faced the assembled heroes on three sides and announced that the Diancang Sect was challenging "Jiugongbao," choosing a mounted battle.

The moment the words "mounted battle" were uttered, the heroes cheered again. "White Whip" Wei Jigao, taking advantage of the turn, glanced around and saw that all the male and female masters of Jiugongbao were beaming with joy. He seemed particularly confident about the horse battle. Turning around, he saw Huangfu Xiang, the "Silver Hairpin" of the Three Hairpins Gang, her delicate brows furrowed, her face frosty, staring at him with cold eyes. Meanwhile, Xiao Xiangzhen, beautiful as a fairy and possessing the highest martial arts skills, was smiling, speaking softly to a red-clad girl holding a longbow, ready to enter the fray.

Seeing this, Wei Jigao was extremely annoyed. He could only raise his arm high and wave towards the entrance on the western ridge. With his wave, several neighs of horses immediately echoed from the western ridge. Then, three burly men, leading three tall horses, galloped down the valley. Based on this, the Diancang Sect had already made a detailed plan for selecting horse warriors for Jiugongbao.

"White Whip" Wei Jigao, seeing the burly men dismount, beckoned to the tent, and two burly, imposing men immediately emerged. The first man, around thirty years old, had thick eyebrows, bulging eyes, a lion's nose, and a large mouth. His dark complexion was striking, and he wore a black satin outfit. He was as tall as half a black tower. The dark-skinned man had broad shoulders and a piercing gaze. He carried two large iron hammers, which looked extremely heavy, clearly indicating his incredible strength.

Jin Jianying, the "Great Hero of Qilu," sitting on a high stool in the "Nine Palaces Fortress" pavilion, immediately turned to Zhong Qing, the "Little Li Guang" in tight-fitting clothes and carrying a spear

, and said solemnly, "Brother Xie, the man carrying the double hammers is 'Black Demon God' Yang Daleng. His hammers weigh over a hundred pounds each. Judging from the situation, his horsemanship must be quite formidable. Brother, you should use skill and strategy to defeat him." Zhong Qing, "Little Li Guang," stared intently at Yang Daleng, who had already approached Wei Jigao, the "White Whip," and solemnly nodded in agreement. Then look at the man following "Black Demon" Yang Daleng. He has a large head and a fat body, round legs and thick arms, a bald head, bald eyebrows, oval eyes, big ears, a large mouth, and a bulbous nose. He is dressed in gray, with his chest and arms exposed, and he carries a caltrop hammer as big as a watermelon. He is obviously also a strong and powerful brute.

Jin Jianying frowned slightly and instructed Deng Lizhu, who had been waiting impatiently, "Miss Deng, when you fight 'Flying Hammer Tyrant' later, you should circle around him and not face him head-on..." Deng Lizhu

nodded repeatedly before Jin Jianying could finish speaking, saying, "I understand."

Although Flying Dragon Deng Zhengtong believed in his beloved daughter's amazing archery skills, he was also worried that she would be careless. Therefore, he said in a deep voice, "That guy's caltrop hammer is a long weapon. The hammer weighs at least thirty pounds. Don't be reckless. It doesn't matter if you are knocked off your horse, but the people of Jiugongbao can't afford to lose face." "

Deng Lizhu immediately scolded, "Father always likes to boost others' morale while diminishing his own."

Deng Zhengtong immediately said helplessly, "Alright, alright, we'll see about you later." As he said this, he seemed to remember something and suddenly instructed, "According to the rules of the Dragon Head Tournament, horse battles can only begin after both sides have exchanged horses. Don't knock that guy down from seven or eight zhang away."

Deng Lizhu immediately said impatiently, "Daughter knows." As she spoke, "White Whip" Wei Jigao had already led "Black Fiend" Yang Daleng and "Flying Hammer Tyrant" Bu Weigong straight towards the bottom of the valley. The fat monk was also announcing the two sides' opponents to the crowd.

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