Chapter 182: The Ghost Swordsman Visits Lümen at Night (10,000 words updated, please subscribe)

Chapter 182: Ghost Swordsman's Night Visit to Lu Family (Ten Thousand Word Update, Please Subscribe)

Zhao Qingmei listened, her eyes fixed on the characters above, then she flicked her finger.

“Whoosh!”

A surge of Qi shot out from her fingertip, exploding forth.

When the Qi struck the cave ceiling, it didn't create the intense sound one might expect; instead, it silently melted into the ceiling.

“There really is something strange.”

Seeing this, Zhao Qingmei couldn't help but show a hint of joy in her eyes.

Nan Weiping slowly said, “This is the exit from the Demon Sealing Well.”

Zhao Qingmei looked at Nan Weiping and asked, “Senior, why are you suddenly telling me all this?”

Previously, even when she had drugged Nan Weiping, she hadn't told her, but today she was actively sharing the information.

“There are many reasons.”

Nan Weiping chuckled softly and said leisurely, “For example, to thank you for the food you’ve brought these past days, and for keeping this old woman company and chatting during this time. Although you don’t speak much, mostly listening to me, the main reason is that if you stay here, you won’t have a chance to cut through this Nine Heavens Dark Iron. It’s better for you to go out and seek another opportunity.”

Nine Heavens Dark Iron is one of the toughest existences in the world, and only the sharpest weapon under Heaven could possibly cut it.

If Zhao Qingmei had such a weapon, she would have long ago used it to 'threaten' herself; clearly, she didn't possess one.

Therefore, the only way for her to escape the Demon Sealing Well was for Zhao Qingmei to go out and find this weapon.

Although Nan Weiping was once a Great Grandmaster, her Lifespan was now limited. Reaching her semi-immortal Realm, she could almost feel her life constantly slipping away.

The most helpless thing in life is when you see countless choices, but in reality, you have no choice at all.

Zhao Qingmei nodded and said, “Alright, as long as I get out, I, Zhao Qingmei, swear I will find the sharpest weapon to cut through this Nine Heavens Dark Iron.”

Nan Weiping nodded slightly, then looked at the stone cave with a hint of melancholy.

Zhao Qingmei, holding her Mandarin Duck Twin Blades, pushed off the ground, her body soaring upwards towards the cave ceiling.

Just as she was about to reach the ceiling, she felt a thick wall appear before her, blocking her path.

“Senior, what’s going on?”

Zhao Qingmei landed on the ground and asked anxiously.

Nan Weiping sat down cross-legged and said, “I told you, this is a Heart Gate. Qi is without a heart, but you are different.”

“Without a heart?”

“Your Nine Nether Purgatory Demonic Codex has cultivated to the seventh layer, already reaching the Realm of All Phenomena. You possess all phenomena, but all phenomena are you alone, still inseparable from your own self.”

“So, I need to reach the eighth layer, the Realm of All Phenomena Without a Heart?”

Zhao Qingmei frowned.

Every improvement of the Nine Nether Purgatory Demonic Codex is extremely difficult. The gap from the seventh layer to the eighth layer seems like only one Realm, but it requires at least decades of arduous Cultivation to reach.

Nan Weiping shook her head and said, “That’s right, this old woman reminded you before to Cultivate this Nine Nether Purgatory Demonic Codex, but you were only focused on dealing with this old woman, wanting to obtain the method to leave the Demon Sealing Well.”

Zhao Qingmei didn't speak. She was trapped in this dark Demon Sealing Well, the Demonic Cult outside was without a leader, and her husband's whereabouts were unknown. How could she calm down and Cultivate in this well?

Zhao Qingmei asked, “How long will it take?”

Nan Weiping thought for a moment and said, “According to Demonic Sect records, the fastest time to Cultivate from the seventh layer to the eighth layer was nine years.”

“Nine years?”

Zhao Qingmei said in a deep voice, “No, that’s too long.”

Her life was only nineteen, twenty years old. Nine years was an incredibly long time for her.

The last time she parted with her brother was ten years ago, and now it was almost another decade. How could she endure it?

Nan Weiping thought for a moment and said, “With this old woman’s full instruction, and the insights of countless predecessors around here, you shouldn’t need many years, perhaps even one year will be enough.”

Zhao Qingmei suddenly chuckled, “One month. As long as I can calm my heart, I can reach the eighth layer in one month.”

She had been stuck at the seventh layer for a long time. Now, with the insights from the stone cave and Nan Weiping's guidance, she was confident she could reach the eighth layer within a month, provided she could completely calm her heart.

“Hahahaha!”

Nan Weiping was stunned for a moment when she heard Zhao Qingmei's words, then burst into laughter.

“What are you laughing at, Senior?”

“You are truly confident. You must know that all Demonic Cult Leaders throughout history have been extraordinary talents, yet none of them dared to utter such bold words, and you are a woman.”

“In the Dao of Cultivation, I am the most confident person.”

Zhao Qingmei's tone was calm and unwavering, as if stating something self-evident. After speaking, she walked out of the stone cave.

“Such a confident person.”

Nan Weiping looked at her retreating figure, couldn't help but be somewhat impressed.

Dongluo Pass, Dongluo Tower.

In an ancient-style room.

Duanmu Xinghua sat by the table, in front of her were stacks upon stacks of secret reports and documents.

“Hoo—”

She continuously approved the secret reports on the table. After about half an hour, she finally let out a long breath, put down her pen, then stood up and walked to the window, overlooking the bustling Dongluo Pass below and the passing merchant caravans.

Dongluo Pass was still as it always was, without any turmoil.

But this period had been the most exhausting for her.

The Demonic Cult suffered from internal strife. The previous Demonic Cult Leader, Jiang Shang, was completely uninterested in the Demonic Cult, only pursuing the illusory eternal life. The current Leader, Zhao Qingmei, was trapped in the Demon Sealing Well, and the day of her release was far off, perhaps she would never escape that Demon Sealing Well.

And Yuan Feng of the Demon Sealing Platform was also making frequent moves. Some time ago, he even went to the Eastern Garrison and killed a Heavenly Sect Master, threatening the Chief of the Black Tortoise Seat to send troops to assist Later Jin in pressuring Great Yan.

Now, the world situation was on the verge of breaking out, which was a great opportunity for the Demonic Cult to expand its influence. However, due to the Demonic Cult's own problems, this golden opportunity had turned into a crisis for the Demonic Cult.

“What should be done?”

Duanmu Xinghua rubbed her temples, her brows tightly furrowed.

“Thump, thump, thump, thump.”

“Sect Leader Duanmu, Jiang Renyi requests an audience!”

Just then, a familiar voice sounded from outside the door.

Jiang Renyi!?

Duanmu Xinghua’s eyes narrowed into slits, then she waved her sleeve and said faintly, “Enter.”

“Creak!”

The door opened directly, revealing Jiang Renyi outside. Beside him were several Heavenly Sect Masters, including Geng Tianchou, the second most powerful Master of the Heavenly Sect.

“Sect Leader Duanmu.”

Jiang Renyi walked into the room and respectfully bowed to Duanmu Xinghua.

Duanmu Xinghua ignored Jiang Renyi and instead looked at the Heavenly Sect Masters behind Jiang Renyi.

“Sect Master.”

Geng Tianchou cupped his fists.

The rest of the Heavenly Sect Masters also bowed respectfully.

The younger generation seemed to have long forgotten the methods of Duanmu Xinghua before them, but as old generation Masters of the Demonic Cult, how could they forget?

Duanmu Xinghua nodded, then looked at Jiang Renyi and asked, “Shouldn’t you be in the Dongluo Desert? Why have you appeared in Dongluo Pass today?”

Jiang Renyi said solemnly, “Renyi grew up in the Demonic Cult. Now that I hear of the current situation of the Demonic Cult, how can I still calm my heart in the Dongluo Desert? So I rushed back without stopping.”

Duanmu Xinghua raised an eyebrow, “You were banished to the Dongluo Desert by the Leader’s order. To come out before three years is not in line with our Demonic Cult’s rules.”

In her heart, she had vaguely perceived a sign.

What Duanmu Xinghua couldn't understand, however, was how Jiang Renyi managed to subdue Geng Tianchou.

“My Junior Sister is currently at the bottom of the Demon Sealing Well, and it is uncertain whether she will ever see the light of day again. Besides, rules are dead, but people are alive.”

Jiang Renyi took a deep breath and continued, “And the Demonic Cult Leader is now trapped in the Demon Sealing Well, but the Demonic Cult cannot be without a Master for a single day. I, Jiang Renyi, volunteer to temporarily manage the position of Demonic Cult Leader.”

As Jiang Renyi's voice fell, the entire room became very quiet.

Geng Tianchou and the other Heavenly Sect Masters showed no change in expression, apparently having known about this for a long time.

“Oh?”

Duanmu Xinghua glanced at Jiang Renyi but said nothing.

She also thought highly of Jiang Renyi. If it weren’t for Zhao Qingmei, Jiang Renyi would indeed be the most qualified person to succeed as Demonic Cult Leader in the current Demonic Cult, and his father, Jiang Shang, was still alive.

Geng Tianchou cupped his fists and said, “Sect Leader Duanmu, you are aware of the current situation. Zhao State and Later Jin already have a tendency to unite, and a national war is imminent. At this time, our Demonic Cult, under this upheaval, will find it difficult to protect itself. It needs someone to lead the Demonic Cult.”

Duanmu Xinghua nodded, “Whether Leader Zhao can come out is still unknown.”

In terms of righteousness, someone was indeed needed at this moment to command the demons and respond to the great changes that were about to occur. However, her heart also worried about Zhao Qingmei, who was beneath the Demon Sealing Well.

Jiang Renyi said lightly, “If my Junior Sister comes out, I am willing to return the position.”

How could someone who entered the Demon Sealing Well a second time ever come out again?

“Sect Leader Duanmu, please prioritize the overall situation.”

Just as Duanmu Xinghua was hesitating, a cold voice came from a distance.

Yuan Feng!

Duanmu Xinghua naturally recognized this voice.

Jiang Renyi's emergence from the Dongluo Desert was indeed not a simple matter behind the scenes.

With the Demon Sealing Platform backing him, plus Jiang Renyi's father, Jiang Shang, it was no wonder that Geng Tianchou and the other Heavenly Sect Masters were willing to be at Jiang Renyi's beck and call.

After a long while, Duanmu Xinghua sighed, “This old woman’s heart is with the Demonic Cult. I live as a person of the Demonic Cult, and I die as a ghost of the Demonic Cult. I care for nothing else.”

Jiang Renyi smiled. He knew that Duanmu Xinghua had agreed to his temporary leadership of the Demonic Cult.

Within the Demonic Cult, Duanmu Xinghua held the most authority, even surpassing people like Lin Tianhai and Li Fuzhou.

In terms of strength, Duanmu Xinghua was a One Qi Grandmaster with countless Heavenly Sect Masters under her command. In terms of seniority, she had joined the Demonic Cult for over forty years, and even Li Fuzhou was brought into the Demonic Cult by her.

As long as she didn't interfere, the position of Demonic Cult Leader was practically set in stone. The only other person who gave him a headache was Qin Bin.

As for the word 'temporary,' as long as his methods were strong enough, who else could covet the position of Demonic Cult Leader?

Geng Tianchou and the other Heavenly Sect Masters also breathed a slight sigh of relief. Zhao Qingmei was trapped in the Demon Sealing Well and might never come out again. Allowing Jiang Renyi to take over the position of Leader was indeed the best choice now.

Duanmu Xinghua slowly said, “Also, the matters concerning Chief Yu and Chief Qin, I hope they can be handled well.”

Jiang Renyi smiled and said, “Don’t worry, these two are pillars of the Demonic Cult. I know what I’m doing.”

Duanmu Xinghua nodded, then bowed and said, “In that case, this old woman greets Leader Jiang.”

“Greetings, Leader Jiang!”

Geng Tianchou and the others also respectfully knelt down.

At this moment, the Demonic Cult's sky had changed.

Jiang Renyi forcibly suppressed the impulse in his heart, but he still couldn't help but burst into laughter.

Demonic Cult Leader, how many years had he coveted this exalted position? Today, he finally got his wish.

Jiang Renyi took a deep breath, calmed down, then remembered Yuan Feng's words and said, “Except for Sect Leader Li, gather all Masters back to the Headquarters. On one hand, to discuss countermeasures for the upcoming alliance with Later Jin, and on the other hand, to stabilize the hearts of the cult members.”

Duanmu Xinghua frowned slightly, “Is our Demonic Cult really going to ally with Later Jin?”

The Demonic Cult allying with Later Jin is undoubtedly like playing with a tiger, and in the end, they will likely become its vassal and be devoured by it.

Jiang Renyi said lightly, "I have my own judgment on this matter."

Hearing Jiang Renyi say this, Duanmu Xinghua stopped speaking.

Yujing City, Wangjing Mountain in the north.

The spring water tinkled, like crisp and pleasant music, and the early summer wind blew, causing a hint of heat to emerge in the lush green mountain forest.

In the dense forest, the black flood dragon lay on the ground, seemingly dozing, with white smoke occasionally surging from its nostrils.

An Jing sat to the side, looking at an ancient jade in his hand.

This was the ancient jade King Xu gave him, saying it was a good treasure.

After playing with it for a while, An Jing found nothing unusual, put it directly into his embrace, and then said, "Old Man Lou, Old Man Lou, I have a bad premonition."

After the battle between Lou Xiangzhen and Xiao Qianqiu at Yuan Lake, the experts of Zhenyi Sect rarely appeared in the Jianghu, and it was rumored that Xiao Qianqiu had returned to seclusion after going back.

This made a hint of unease rise in An Jing's heart.

Xiao Qianqiu was known as a born Dao Child; his Aptitude was unquestionable, reaching the Four Qi Grandmaster Realm before the age of fifty, and he had also Cultivated the Big Dipper Seven Stars Art to Perfection.

Regardless of his bone structure or Comprehension Ability, he was one of the top talents in the world. After this battle with Lou Xiangzhen, although the momentum accumulated over several years was broken, Lou Xiangzhen also said that it was very likely to complete Xiao Qianqiu, and if he broke through his inner barrier, his Cultivation might greatly increase further.

Now Xiao Qianqiu already had the Cultivation of Four Qi; if he took another step, he would be a Five Qi Grandmaster, needing only one step to reach the rumored Great Grandmaster, and at his age, there was a high probability of becoming a Great Grandmaster.

Jiang Sanjia hoped that one day he would step onto Zhenyi Mountain and pour a pot of good wine on the peak to commemorate his spirit in heaven, and the remaining half-battle between Lou Xiangzhen and Xiao Qianqiu also needed him to conclude.

An Jing carried the hopes of Jiang Sanjia and Lou Xiangzhen, and he had also killed so many experts of Zhenyi Sect, so there was an inherent struggle over Dao lineage; the two would have a battle sooner or later.

Xiao Qianqiu, that was a formidable opponent.

And there was also Master Jiang, who was very likely the previous Demonic Cult Leader, Jiang Shang.

"Qing Mei."

An Jing touched his cheek and muttered, "With my physique and appearance, it's not too much to cling to a powerful figure and live off a woman, is it?"

Splash!

An Jing suddenly stood up, came to the stream, and looked fiercely at his reflection in the water, "How can you live off a woman? You've truly fallen! Do you remember the oath you made back then, to rely on yourself, to work hard, to strive? You need to work hard to mend your kidneys!"

The black flood dragon moved its body, glanced at the man squatting by the river talking to himself, and then continued to lie on the ground.

After giving himself a pep talk, An Jing returned to normal.

Ever since Lou Xiangzhen left, he felt like he was stumbling blindly in the Jianghu.

Apart from hearing Jianghu rumors along the way, he knew nothing about the various secrets and important matters of the world.

"No matter what, blending into the Demonic Cult and finding a way to advance to Grandmaster is the most urgent matter at hand."

An Jing took a deep breath, then came before the black flood dragon.

The black flood dragon turned its head, its lantern-sized eyes filled with curiosity.

An Jing pondered for a moment and said, "You Cultivate here in Wangjing Mountain. Remember not to do anything out of line. Since I'm in Yujing City, I should visit Sanjia and Zhou Xianming, and also inquire about Old Man Li and Tan Yun."

If it weren't for Jiang Sanjia, he wouldn't have learned the Ghost Valley Heart Sutra, and naturally wouldn't have escaped Master Jiang's pursuit.

Nor would he have had Lou Xiangzhen protecting his Dao later.

Now that he was in Yujing City, if he didn't go and have a couple of drinks with him, Jiang Sanjia, even if he knew in the afterlife, would surely feel resentful.

"Roar!"

The black flood dragon let out a low growl, responding to An Jing.

An Jing nodded, and with a leap, walked towards Yujing City.

The gentle breeze blew, carrying a hint of coolness.

Wangjing Mountain is a tall mountain north of Yujing City, lush and green, with peaks as steep as sharp swords. Coupled with the fact that it was early summer, the weather was not yet hot, and there were some tourists on the road.

Just then, a figure appeared ahead.

The person wore a black robe and had a handsome face, but his expression was cold, as if devoid of any emotion.

"Is that him?"

An Jing saw the person and instantly remembered.

Eunuch Zhong Binru, Sword Master, one of the Six Great Sword Immortals of the world.

Earlier at Yuan Lake, Eunuch Zhong Binru, Sword Master, holding the Son of Heaven Sword, had tried to stop the battle between Lou Xiangzhen and Xiao Qianqiu.

He was also the swordsman Lou Xiangzhen currently thought most highly of, even saying that this person's future achievements in the Dao of the sword might even surpass Lin Yiyang's.

He hadn't expected to see him today on Wangjing Mountain.

At this moment, Eunuch Zhong Binru, Sword Master seemed not to have noticed An Jing at all. His expression was always unmoving, just like his inner self, as he slowly walked up the mountain.

The two passed each other just like that.

An Jing did not speak and walked along the mountain path.

Even before reaching Yujing City, one could see the ancient brick walls stretching like continuous mountain ranges, rising and falling.

Eight tall and strong soldiers in black armor stood at the city gate, their expressions cold and serious. People came and went, a scene of bustling prosperity.

The city before him was the capital of Great Yan.

The small stalls by the street were always crowded, shouts rising and falling. Teahouses, inns, cloth shops, and all other kinds of stores were available.

Along both sides of the street, various vendors hawked their wares: antiques, rouge and powder, jewelry, calligraphy and paintings, kites, sachets. Various traffic routes covered every corner of the capital like a spiderweb, and groups of people were loaded and unloaded like cargo. The entire capital looked extremely lively.

The faint afterglow of the twilight sun gently sprinkled upon the red bricks and green tiles, or the brightly colored pavilions and flying eaves, adding a touch of haze and poetry to the prosperous evening scene of Yujing City.

Majestic, prosperous.

This was An Jing's first impression of Yujing City.

"Make way!"

"Clip-clop!" "Clip-clop!"

As An Jing walked through the market, he saw galloping horses rushing by.

The surrounding commoners saw this and quickly moved aside.

An Jing also turned to look, only to see a richly dressed young man riding a strong steed, shouting in a low voice.

"Isn't that Zuo Zixin?"

"He's really arrogant, daring to ride a horse at full speed in Yujing City."

"It's said that after Zhou Xianming from Jiangnan Province became the Top Scorer, he was very displeased and even wanted to cause trouble for Zhou Xianming."

"This fellow has a bad character; he's truly a villain."

"If your aunt is the Empress, you can also ride a horse through Yujing City."

As the richly dressed young man departed, the surrounding commoners began to discuss.

An Jing didn't know who Zuo Zixin was, but he was somewhat familiar with the Zuo Family.

The Zuo Family was one of the most prominent families in Great Yan today. Its Patriarch, Zuo Biwen, was the Valley Master of Youfeng Valley, and his sister was the former number one beauty of Great Yan, and currently the Empress of Great Yan, Zuo Linglong.

"Zhou Xianming is the Top Scorer?"

An Jing looked at Zuo Zixin's retreating back and muttered to himself.

Zhou Xianming was indeed very talented, otherwise he wouldn't have won the provincial examination in Linjiang City, but becoming the Top Scorer in the metropolitan examination was something he hadn't expected.

Yujing City covered a vast area, divided into inner and outer cities.

Within the inner city, besides the Imperial Palace, there were also the mansions and residences of various princes and nobles.

Young Masters from aristocratic families were everywhere. An ordinary wealthy merchant in Yu Prefecture City might be a big shot, but in Yujing City, they were as insignificant as sesame seeds.

The shops along the streets were all exquisitely decorated; the flying eaves and carved balustrades were crafted by skilled artisans, without the slightest carelessness. The goods were also dazzling and diverse, making it hard to take everything in.

Just then, two familiar figures appeared, then entered a cloth shop.

"Hmm!?"

Seeing this, a smile appeared on An Jing's lips, and he quickly followed them.

The cloth shop owner was sweeping with a feather duster. Seeing An Jing walk in, he quickly smiled and said, "Customer, what kind of fabric or ready-made clothes do you need? We have everything here."

This cloth shop was very large, divided into two floors, and the walls were hung with various colorful fabrics.

An Jing said lightly, "I'll just look around myself."

"Alright, customer, please take your time. If you need anything, just call out."

The owner said, knowing that some people had special preferences.

An Jing nodded, then walked towards the two figures in the distance.

"Sister Fang, do you think this one suits me?"

"I think it's very good. The material is so nice. Brother Qiu will definitely look good in it."

"Hehe, if Sister Fang thinks it looks good, then it looks good."

In a corner, a water jar and a mountain of flesh were laughing while holding a piece of red brocade.

As they spoke, the mountain of flesh stretched out its plump arm and gently embraced the water jar.

The two exchanged loving glances, deeply infatuated, like a pair of immortal lovers.

It was none other than Qiu Lun and Fang Jinxiu.

"Isn't this red a bit too vibrant?"

Just then, a voice sounded nearby.

Qiu Lun, startled like a rabbit, suddenly turned around and looked, "You, you, how did you appear here?"

Looking at the black-robed man in front of him, Qiu Lun's eyes widened, but no matter how wide they opened, they were still as small as green beans.

He never expected to see the Ghost Swordsman here again.

And Fang Jinxiu was also a bit surprised.

After all, the Ghost Swordsman was arguably the most sought-after figure in the Jianghu today.

Chasing Qi Shu for three hundred miles had truly made him famous throughout the Great Yan Jianghu, earning him many supporters.

An Jing glanced at Qiu Lun and said, "Big fatty, I have some questions for you."

"Brother, what are you saying, 'big fatty'? It sounds so distant if others hear it."

Qiu Lun said with a fawning smile, "Just call me Little Qiu."

Because of his excessive obesity, when Qiu Lun smiled, his facial features squeezed tightly together, like a chrysanthemum.

An Jing waved his hand impatiently and said, "Enough with the nonsense. The Top Scorer of this metropolitan examination is surnamed Zhou, do you know him?"

Hearing this, Qiu Lun immediately became energetic: "Of course I know! Who in Yujing City doesn't know Mr. Zhou's great name? He's Old Lu's student."

"Old Lu!?"

An Jing was a little surprised to hear this.

In Yujing City, there was only one person whom the commoners would refer to as Old Lu, and that was Lu Guoyong.

Lu Guoyong was a vital asset to Great Yan. To this day, he had only taken two students: one was Zhao Tianyi, the Imperial Secretary to the Emperor, and the other was Li Fuzhou, who had defected to the Demonic Cult.

But when did he become Zhou Xianming's teacher?

Qiu Lun nodded repeatedly and said, "That's right, a student personally appointed by Old Lu! Everyone in Yujing City knows about it. Now, many merchants who were betting on the palace examination are already preparing to jump into the moat. Luckily, I was smart this time and didn't open a betting pool; I almost lost even my wife's dowry money."

Speaking of this, Qiu Lun's tone carried a hint of relief.

Old Lu's student, could the Top Scorer still escape?

Fang Jinxiu, standing beside him, tightly clutched Qiu Lun's arm and said earnestly, "Brother Qiu, don't worry. Even if you have no money, no status, and no strength, I will still be devoted to you, because I fell for you as a person."

An Jing looked astonished. If Fang Jinxiu had fallen for Qiu Lun's money, status, or strength, he could understand.

But the one thing he couldn't understand was why she was interested in him.

Without money, status, or strength, what else did the fat man Qiu Lun have?

Was it because he was short?

Qiu Lun was also deeply moved, “Junior Sister Fang, I feel the same. Even if your youth fades and your beauty is gone in the future, I will never abandon you. My feelings for you will remain constant.”

An Jing fell completely silent upon hearing this.

Qiu Lun seemed to have thought of something and said, gloating, “That Zhou Xianming really shot to fame. I heard a rumor that the Imperial Family is planning to recruit him as the Imperial Son-in-Law. I’ve seen Princess Anle, and she’s quite ugly.”

“She’s quite ugly.”

If An Jing hadn't seen it with his own eyes, he would have almost believed Qiu Lun's words, seeing his expression.

Seeing An Jing remain silent, Qiu Lun teased, “Big Brother, are you also like those common people, who like ugly women?”

“If that’s true, I say, back when you saved Princess Anle, you should have just kidnapped her, made a fait accompli, and then had a few chubby sons. Then the position of Imperial Son-in-Law would have been yours.”

An Jing, however, remained deep in thought, his mind on Zhou Xianming’s affairs.

No one had expected that Zhou Xianming would be taken as a Disciple by Lu Guoyong. His grand ambitions in the wine shop back then were still vivid, and it seemed they would soon be realized.

According to the connections within the Imperial Court, Zhou Xianming’s future achievements would definitely not be low; he might even be ennobled as a marquis, become a prime minister, and hold a position of extreme power among officials.

One could only say that facts are unpredictable.

Fang Jinxiu chided from the side, “Don’t talk nonsense. Big Brother is not one of those common people.”

“That’s right, how could Big Brother be compared to those common people?”

Qiu Lun nodded, then suddenly glanced around and whispered, “Big Brother, do you still remember that dead eunuch?”

An Jing raised an eyebrow and said, “Sacred Hand?”

That fair-skinned pretty boy who was even paler than him? He certainly remembered him.

Qiu Lun’s face was solemn as he said, “His identity is not ordinary. I sent him to the Heavenly Prison some time ago, but who knew he was actually Lord Ming’s adopted grandson.”

Lord Ming!

Everyone in the Jianghu knew that if Xiao Qianqiu was The World's Number One Swordsman in the Great Yan Jianghu, then the Imperial Court’s Number One Master was Lord Ming, Eunuch Bai, White Eyebrows.

He was the Taiping Emperor’s Imperial Seal Eunuch.

The Taiping Emperor was able to launch the Heavenly Book Pavilion coup, and besides the support of Zhenyi Sect, the biggest reason for his success was the support of Lord Ming in the Imperial Palace.

Moreover, the Taiping Emperor even called him foster father, which showed the man’s standing in the Taiping Emperor’s heart.

An Jing had never imagined that Zhuo Yuchang would have such an identity.

Qiu Lun said with a somewhat ugly expression, “Yes, that kid didn’t report his identity. It was only when I sent him to the Heavenly Prison to inquire about his household registration that it was found out.”

An Jing nodded slightly, “I understand. Then be careful of that eunuch’s revenge. I have something else to do, so I’ll be leaving first.”

With that, he walked out of the shop.

Seeing An Jing turn to leave, Qiu Lun quickly asked, “Big Brother, where are you going? I heard you’re going to have a sword duel with Lin Yiyang, is that true?”

“Oh, by the way, Junior Sister Fang and I are getting married soon. Don’t forget to come for a celebratory drink and give a gift.”

An Jing paused, then quickened his steps and left.

Fang Jinxiu watched An Jing leave and couldn’t help but ask, “Brother Qiu, do you think Big Brother can defeat Lin Yiyang? I heard Lin Yiyang is a One Qi Grandmaster Realm Great Sword Immortal.”

Although An Jing had the reputation of pursuing and killing Qi Shu, everyone knew it was due to the might of the Black Flood Dragon. If he didn't have the Black Flood Dragon's assistance, it was still unknown whether his strength would be a match for Lin Yiyang.

Qiu Lun shook his head, “Who knows? Anyway, when we open the betting, we’ll definitely make a fortune.”

Thinking of this, Qiu Lun’s heart immediately burned with excitement.

The duel between Ghost Swordsman and the White-Clad Sword Immortal, a clash between the two most top-tier swordsmen of the current era—this spectacle would definitely attract countless swordsmen to watch.

This time, it would be another great opportunity for him to make a huge profit.

Zhenyi Sect, Zhenyi Mountain.

Inside the Sect Master’s quiet room.

Xiao Qianqiu sat cross-legged on a futon, holding a mirror in his hand.

This was precisely the mysterious treasure, the celestial venerable dharma mirror.

At this moment, the celestial venerable dharma mirror was like a very ordinary mirror, reflecting a faint yellow halo, illuminating Xiao Qianqiu’s calm, placid face.

His mind was still replaying the sword strike that came from above Yuan Lake.

Light and shadow flickered, that streak of light descending like a meteor from heaven and earth.

What was important wasn't that sword strike, nor the appearance of the celestial venerable dharma mirror’s celestial venerable phantom, but the enlightenment gained in that moment between life and death.

“Lou Xiangzhen’s sword strike was truly formidable,” Xiao Qianqiu finally sighed softly after a long time.

To this day, having been in the Jianghu for so long, he had encountered countless Masters, including his Master Ye Ding, Luo Chongyang, Jiang Shang, Qi Shu, and other Later Jin Masters. The number of Masters who died by his hand was also countless.

However, no one had ever given him the same feeling as Lou Xiangzhen. A sword strike of unparalleled brilliance, piercing through everything in the world, severing life, and even penetrating the celestial venerable dharma mirror.

If it weren't for the celestial venerable dharma mirror, he would have undoubtedly died.

Lou Xiangzhen was the Great Yan Jianghu’s Number One Master, The World's Number One Swordsman; this was beyond doubt.

Just then, a respectful voice came from outside the quiet room.

“Sect Master, Qi Shu has been rescued by Dharma King Mujin of the Later Jin Great Snow Mountain.”

Xiao Qianqiu nodded, “I know.”

“Yes.”

Then only the sound of footsteps fading away could be heard.

“Dharma King Mujin rescued Qi Shu?” Xiao Qianqiu muttered to himself.

Qi Shu was Qi Wushuang’s Disciple, and very likely the future leader of the Black Ice Terrace. It was reasonable for Later Jin to rescue him and form a connection with the Black Ice Terrace.

Now, it seemed the situation was even clearer.

Even if Later Jin and Zhao State were not in collusion, their relationship was certainly very friendly and harmonious.

“What must come will ultimately come.”

Xiao Qianqiu exhaled, then continued to close his eyes and Cultivate.

To survive in a chaotic world, one could only continuously improve their own strength.

Light and shadow intertwined in his mind, time flowed by, and this world seemed to become somewhat different.

“Crack! Crack!”

Just then, the celestial venerable dharma mirror in his hand suddenly shattered, and countless dense, spiderweb-like cracks appeared in the center of the mirror’s surface.

“Thump!”

The next moment, a white light surged from within the mirror.

“Hmm!?”

Xiao Qianqiu felt a blur before his eyes, as if his Divine Soul had been momentarily sublimated, flying out of his body.

Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!

The white light pierced through the quiet room and surged out of the main hall.

Everyone on Zhenyi Mountain felt a tremor in their hearts and looked up.

On this day, a white light on Zhenyi Mountain shot straight into the sky, dazzling and brilliant, shining brightly.

As night deepened, at Lu Manor.

Faint lamplight flickered and swayed, reflecting in the rockery and pond.

A figure moved through the covered walkway.

This person was An Jing.

“After seeing that old fellow Zhou Xianming, I’ll go see Sanjia, and then I’ll seek a method to advance to Grandmaster.”

An Jing walked along the covered walkway, muttering to himself, “If he becomes successful, will he still remember the kindness of the past?”

Thinking about it now, fate is truly wondrous. If Zhou Xianming knew that the person who sponsored his imperial examination was from the Demonic Cult, what would he think?

If his wife knew that she had sponsored such a person, would she regret it?

An Jing couldn't help but smile at the thought of everyone reuniting.

Just then, a young man in luxurious clothes walked by with his hands behind his back.

The next moment, a black and white Qi surged out, and the young man’s body instantly stiffened.

It was the Ghost Valley Bewilderment from the Ghost Valley Heart Sutra.

An Jing lightly floated in front of the young man and asked, “What is your name?”

The young man replied dully, “My name is Lu Jingchun.”

An Jing raised an eyebrow and said, “What is Lu Guoyong to you?”

The young man replied, “He is my grandfather.”

Lu Guoyong’s grandson!?

An Jing frowned, not expecting that the random person he grabbed was actually Lu Guoyong’s grandson. “Then do you know where Zhou Xianming is?”

“In my aunt’s separate residence.”

“Your aunt’s separate residence?”

“Yes.”

“Who is your aunt?”

“My aunt’s name is Lu Xiangning. She was driven out of the Lu Family by my grandfather when I was four years old.”

“Where is that separate residence?”

“Walk to the end of this corridor, and you’ll see it.”

An Jing nodded, then his body leaped, disappearing from Lu Jingchun’s sight.

“What happened?”

Lu Jingchun only felt a blur before his eyes, and rubbed his head. “Could it be that I’ve been drinking too much with Zhou Xianming recently, and my mind isn’t clear? It seems I should drink less wine in the future. I can’t be bought off by a few drinks from Zhou Xianming. He’s corrupting my mind. I can’t be a dissolute scholar like him.”

With that, Lu Jingchun continued walking into the distance.

After An Jing got Zhou Xianming’s location, he walked along the corridor.

His Qi was concealed to the extreme; even the servants of the Lu Manor walking past him didn't notice his presence.

Before long, An Jing arrived at the end of the corridor.

Before even entering the separate residence, he could see a lush palm tree in the center of the courtyard, seemingly covering half of the yard.

“Young friend, coming and going in such a hurry, where are you off to?”

Just as An Jing was about to step in, a voice sounded behind him.

“Hmm!?”

An Jing’s heart trembled, and he looked behind him.

He saw an old man with white hair standing behind him, smiling at him.

The old man had no Qi emanating from him, like an unremarkable ordinary person.

But an ordinary person could never have discovered his whereabouts.

An Jing said indifferently, “Visiting a friend.”

“A friend?”

The old man’s smile deepened, “I wonder who the young friend is visiting, and why you need to use the Ghost Valley Bewilderment of the Ghost Valley Sect to ask for directions.”

This old man was indeed not simple.

An Jing’s eyes narrowed into slits, and he said, “I heard that Old Lu is a vital pillar of the Great Yan Country, and it is precisely because of Old Lu that Great Yan can enjoy favorable weather, national peace, and prosperity. I have always yearned to meet you, and today I intend to pay my respects.”

“Hahahahaha.”

The old man laughed upon hearing An Jing’s words, “You little brat, you hide your head and show your tail, but your words are very pleasant to hear. I like it.”

“Did he see through my bone age?”

An Jing’s heart trembled. His thoughts landed on the Earth Book, and after finding nothing unusual, he couldn’t help but ask, “Who is Your Excellency?”

The old man walked two steps forward with his hands behind his back, then slowly said, “I am the vital pillar of the nation you spoke of, Lu Guoyong.”

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