Ba Tianshi, Zhu Danchen and the others awakened the following morning and found that Duan Yu is lacking. Calling on the door of Wang Yuyan yielded no response both. Noting that her door is shut however unlocked, the 2 males knocked on the door for a while earlier than opening it. The room is empty and unoccupied.

The 2 males have been particularly upset and groaned in distress.

Zhu Danchen bemoaned: “Our Prince is precisely like His Lordship (Duan Zhengchun); wherever he goes, he’ll get entangled in a romantic affair. He should have snuck away in the course of the evening with Miss Wang. I ponder the place they’re headed.”

Ba Tianshi nodded his head and added: “Younger Prince is dashing and flamboyant; he would moderately encompass himself with fairly girls than be taught extra about managing the nation. His attraction to Miss Wang is an open secret. Forcing him to be the Prince Consort of Xixia… Sigh… Our Prince is rarely recognized for his obedience; again then, when Emperor and His Lordship wished him to be taught martial arts, he merely refused to be taught. After they gave him further strain, he ran away from dwelling.”

Zhu Danchen concluded: “We will solely resort to searching them down in separate instructions and doing our greatest to advise their return. ”

Ba Tianshi bitterly smiled, shrugging his shoulders and going through his palms skywards in exasperation.

Zhu Danchen supplemented: “Brother Ba, there was one event when His Lordship ordered me to pursuit our Prince. Regardless of discovering him after a lot difficultly, he…” At this level, he lowered his voice right into a whisper and continued: “He was smitten with Miss Mu Wangqing. In the midst of the evening, the 2 of them secretly eloped. Happily, luck is on my facet and I used to be laying forward in ambush. In any other case, I’d have failed in my project.”

Slapping his thigh, Ba Tianshi reprimanded: “Ai, my worthy Brother Zhu, on this case, you might be at fault. Since you’ve gotten this prior expertise, why did not you are taking the identical precaution? The 2 of us ought to have taken turns to observe over him all through the evening.”

Zhu Danchen let loose a sigh and defined: “I assumed that as a result of Nice Hero Xiao and Mister Xu Zhu are his sworn brothers and are right here with us, he wouldn’t make use of such a tactic and go away with no phrase. I didn’t count on … I didn’t count on him to…” The subsequent 4 phrases he wished to precise have been: prioritise girls over brotherhood. Nonetheless, he ultimately didn’t say them as a result of firstly, it’s an act of insubordination and secondly, as a result of Duan Yu is on good phrases with him and he doesn’t want to use such a time period to explain Duan Yu.

With no higher concept in thoughts, the 2 males went and up to date Xiao Feng and Xu Zhu. After trying to find the lacking individuals for a whole day and in several instructions, there’s nonetheless no clue to their whereabouts.

At night time, everyone is gathered in Duan Yu’s empty room for a common dialogue. As anxiousness dominated the assembly, the Xixia Empire Ministry of Rites despatched an official to the inn, asking for Ba Tianshi. The official briefed: On the fifteenth Day of August, the Emperor shall be internet hosting a banquet at Xihua Palace, extending a hospitable welcome to the honoured visitors from all around the world. The attendance of Prince Duan of DaLi is strictly anticipated. Caught in a quandary, Ba Tianshi might solely mutter in settlement.

Ba Tianshi has bribed this official earlier on and his habits is nice and cordial. When the official is about to depart, Ba Tianshi despatched him off on the door. The official whispered into his ears: “Minister Ba, I’ve a tip for you. On the Emperor’s banquet tomorrow evening, all of the esteemed visitors shall be scrutinized for his or her appearances. After the banquet, there might be some archery or sparring actions, to ensure that the esteemed visitors to showcase themselves. This is a crucial trial almost about selecting the Prince Consort and the husband of our Princess. Prince Duan can not take this matter calmly.” Ba Tianshi bowed to precise his appreciation. From his sleeve, he produced one other massive gold ingot and pressed it into the palms of the official.

Again within the inn, Ba Tianshi up to date everyone and sighed: “Lord Zhennan (Duan Zhengchun) has given agency directions that our Prince should marry the Princess no matter no matter it takes. The 2 of us have failed in our mission and we’re too ashamed to face His Lordship.”

Bamboo Sword out of the blue lined her mouth and chortled: “Minister Ba, might Little Servant (I) say one thing?”

Ba Tianshi condescended: “Sister, I’m all ears.”

Bamboo Sword giggled: “Mister Duan’s father wished him to marry the Princess of Xixia; behind the scenes, his intention is for this marriage to be a unifying issue between Xixia and DaLi. Sooner or later, the 2 nations are thought-about allies, am I proper?”

Ba Tianshi agreed: “You might be proper.”

Chrysanthemum Sword questioned: “Being the parent-in-law His Lordship Duan, I assume he isn’t involved whether or not the Xixia Princess is as lovely as Xi Shi (considered one of China’s 4 Best Magnificence) or uglier than Wu Yan (a derogatory time period for an unpleasant girl)?”

Ba Tianshi conjectured: “The Princess is of royal standing, even when she is just not a top-notched magnificence, she would no less than be common wanting”

Plum Sword defined: “We sisters have an concept; so long as we will use a marriage trick and get the Princess again to DaLi, it’s not necessary if we can not find Prince Duan in time.

Orchid Sword chuckled: “Finally, Mister Duan and Miss Wang will get bored with sightseeing and head dwelling to DaLi after just a few years. By then, it’s nonetheless not too late for them to consummate the wedding.”

Ba Tianshi and Zhu Danchen have been exhilarated. In unison, they requested: “The Prince is absent. How can we make use of a marriage ruse to get the Xixia Princess again to DaLi? Since 4 girls have an awesome plan, please share the small print with us.”

Plum Sword defined: “When Miss Mu placed on the garments of a person and disguise herself as a good-looking scholar, would not she be higher wanting than Mister Duan? If she attends the banquet tomorrow evening, among the many tons of younger heroes, her appears to be like will certainly stand out.”

Orchid Sword continued: “Miss Mu is the blood sister of Mister Duan. When she represented her brother and received again a sister-in-law, firstly, she has accomplished the nation proud and secondly, she is going to get into the great books of her father. Is not {that a} worthy cut price?”

Bamboo Sword was subsequent: “When Miss Mu has been chosen because the Prince Consort, the precise marriage ceremony will happen at a later date. By then, Mister Duan would have been discovered.”

Chrysanthemum Sword concluded: “Even when Mister Duan remains to be unavailable, Miss Mu can exchange him for the marriage ceremony. Who can be the wiser?” Ending, she used her hand to cowl her mouth because the 4 sisters concurrently burst out in wild laughter.

Sharing the identical prepare of considering and method of speech, the 4 sisters are completely congruent and it felt like interacting with one individual as an alternative of 4.

Glancing at one another, each Ba Tianshi and Zhu Danchen felt that this plan is extremely outrageous. If the Xixia Empire noticed by way of this ruse, not solely will the wedding crumble, the 2 nations will grow to be enemies. If the Emperor of Xixia is irritated sufficient to start out a battle, then they’d have bitten off greater than they’ll chew.

Plum Sword might predict the issues of the 2 males and comforted: “Truly, Mister Duan has Hero Xiao as his sworn brother and initially, there is no such thing as a cause to get into the great books of Xixia. Nonetheless, Lord Zhennan has given his orders and we have now to conform. Within the worst doable state of affairs, as Southern Khan of Nice Liao and with 100 thousand elite troops at his disposal, Hero Xiao can intercede on the behalf of DaLi. Absolutely that’s enough sufficient to forestall Xixia from creating bother.”

Xiao Feng let loose a smile and nodded his head.

Because the Exterior Minister of DaLi, Ba Tianshi is in command of the nation’s political and international affairs. To enlist Xiao Feng’s help for DaLi has at all times been on his thoughts however it’s inappropriate for him to convey up the topic. Now that Plum Sword has put forth the suggestion and Xiao Feng has nodded his head in settlement, this difficulty has been solid in stone. Within the worst case, the wedding will find yourself in failure however Dali Nation won’t endure any extreme repercussions. He thought: This proposal submitted by our 4 girls is fairly simple like a baby’s sport. Moreover this plan, I can not consider something higher. I ponder if Miss Mu is keen to undertake this harmful mission?

Thus, he remarked: “This proposal by the 4 girls is sensible certainly. Nonetheless, there’s a sturdy component of hazard. If we’re uncovered, Miss Mu runs the chance of being captured. As well as, many heroes and gifted individuals shall be gathered there. Though Miss Mu’s integrity is incomparable, when it comes to martial arts, she might discover it an uphill job to beat the chances.”

Everyone turned their consideration to Mu Wanqing and waited for her response.

Mu Wanqing began: “Minister Ba, you needn’t attempt to agitate me. This brother of mine… This brother of mine…” After saying and repeating the phrases: This brother of mine, Mu Wanqing out of the blue burst out in tears. When she found that Duan Yu and Wang Yuyan has eloped, she couldn’t assist however was reminded about her personal expertise with Duan Yu, slipping away collectively within the center the evening. If not for the truth that he turned out to be her brother, they’d be residing as a blissful couple. Now, Duan Yu is behaving intimately with one other girl, having the time of their lives whereas she is all chilly and lonely. So as to add salt to the wound, these officers of DaLi are actually suggesting that she disguised as him to take part in a wedding. Distressed and incensed, she abruptly swept out her hand, toppling the desk in entrance of her. With this toppling, Ping! Ping! Piang! Piang! the teapot and tea cups got here crashing down all around the ground. Leaping up from her seat, she exited the room with no single phrase.

Everyone stare upon each other in confusion, feeling that she is such a moist blanket. With an apologetic tone, Ba Tianshi professed: “That is my fault. If I’ve begged her in a form method, Miss Mu can merely voice her disagreement. Nonetheless, my strategy might have been unsuitable, inflicting her to be upset.”

Zhu Danchen shook his head and lamented: “Miss Mu’s anger is unquestionably not associated to Brother Ba’s phrases. There may be one more reason behind her response. Ai, it’s difficult!”

The subsequent day, everyone headed out in several instructions and continued to search for Duan Yu. The busy streets are full of younger males wearing elegant clothes and it’s fairly apparent that they’re right here to attend the Palace banquet on Mid Autumn Night time (fifteenth August). Sometimes, some public disagreements may be sighted, clear proof that the soldiers from TuBo Nation are nonetheless doing their greatest to take away rivals for his or her Prince. Close to Duan Yu and Wang Yuyan, no one is ready to monitor them in any respect.

By night time, everyone has returned to the inn. Naturally, some got here again earlier and a few got here again later. Xiao Feng introduced: “Since Third Brother is not round, there is no such thing as a level for us to remain on. No matter who turns into the Prince Consort, it’s none of our enterprise.” Ba Tianshi agreed: “Hero Xiao is correct. If we keep on and helplessly witness one other individual grow to be the Prince Consort, it won’t be a pleasing expertise.”

Zhong Ling abruptly queried: “Mister Zhu, are you a married man? Since Mister Duan is unwilling to be the Prince Consort, why do not you are taking his place? For those who married the Princess of Xixia, would not that be serving to DaLi too?”

Zhu Danchen guffawed: “Miss is pulling my leg. A very long time in the past, Your Junior (I) has already been blessed with a spouse and mistress, female and male offspring.” Zhong Ling caught out her tongue. Zhu Danchen added: “A pity that Miss’s options are too delicate and you’ve got dimples in your face. You can not masquerade as a male, in any other case, with you taking over the mantle and representing your brother to marry the Xixia Princess…”

Zhong Ling was shocked: “What? Signify my brother?”

Zhu Danchen realized he had a slip of the tongue. Zhong Ling, being the illegitimate baby of Lord Zhennan, remains to be not a public matter and he ought to preserve the confidentiality. He hurriedly corrected: “I imply you may characterize Prince Duan in undertaking this significant mission…”

Past his expectation, any individual outdoors the door spoke out: “Minister Ba, Mister Zhu, let’s set off.” Brushing apart the door curtain, a putting younger man entered. Stuffed with heroic and manly aura, it was Mu Wanqing cloaked in scholarly robes.

Excited and delighted on the similar time, everybody requested: “What? Miss Mu is keen to get entangled?”

Mu Wanqing rectified: “My surname is Duan and my first identify is Yu, the son of DaLi nation Lord Zhennan. Could I request everybody right here to be conscious of your speech?” Her voice is evident and exact, regardless of some female undertones. Happily, younger individuals have a tendency to talk with a sharper voice so it isn’t one thing out of the odd. Appreciating her fantastic impersonation of Duan Yu, the group burst out in joyful laughter.

The day earlier than, after throwing a tantrum, Mu Wanqing had returned to her room and cried her coronary heart out. Straightening her ideas, she felt dangerous for making a scene and offending so many individuals. Furthermore, it sounds fairly enjoyable to disguise as Duan Yu to marry the Xixia Princess. In her thoughts, she additionally thought: You (DY) eloped with Miss Wang and is on the market having a superb time. I’ll purposely marry a Princess in your behalf and from then on, you can be dealing with infinite disagreements and by no means have a day of peace.

Recalling the primary time she entered DaLi Metropolis, she discovered Duan Yu’s dad and mom to be simply jealous by nature and their conferences have been awkward. If Duan Yu marries a Princess, she can be positively grow to be his official spouse and the pinnacle of his harem. Wang Yuyan should grow to be his mistress (concubine) as an alternative. Though she (MWQ) herself is unable to marry Duan Yu, she is just not keen to let this petite and demure Miss Wang fortunately grow to be his official spouse with out some hindrances. The extra she thought, the extra happy she was. Due to this fact, she is keen to take the chance and masquerade as Duan Yu.

Ba Tianshi and the others are extremely motivated and swiftly made preparations. Ba Tianshi remembered Assistant Minister Tao who has visited the inn and met Duan Yu earlier than. Thus, he ready 300 taels of gold and order Zhu Danchen to ship them to Assistant Minister Tao. The unique items have been delivered however this can be a bonus. He instructed Zhu Danchen to supply the bribe with out passing any message. Later, when Assistant Minister Tao notices something out of the odd, he would naturally preserve it to himself. Utilizing 300 taels of gold to purchase silence, it’s a classical instance of: Making a quiet fortune.

Mu Wanqing requested: “Huge Brother Xiao and Second Brother Xu Zhu, I would favor the 2 of you to accompany me for the banquet. With you two at my facet, I’ll really feel a lot safer. In any other case, if push involves shove, I’ll not have the ability to triumph with my expertise. Throughout the royal palace, it isn’t very acceptable for my toxic projectiles to start out flying.”

Orchid Sword giggled: “Appropriate! As soon as Mister Duan begins capturing out toxic arrows and piling up corpses within the royal palace of Xixia, I doubt the Princess herself will conform to marry you.”

Xiao Feng laughed: “Second Brother and myself have pledged our help to Uncle Duan (Zhengchun) and we’ll naturally do our greatest.”

Everybody beginning altering garments and placing on make up, getting ready to attend the royal palace banquet. Xiao Feng and Xu Zhu are disguised as aides from DaLi Lord Zhennan Residence; Zhong Ling and the 4 sisters from Lingjiu Palace initially wished to cross costume as males and take part within the celebrations however Ba Tianshi forbade: “With Miss Mu’s solo disguise, we’re already at a danger of being found. If we add on one other 5 girls dressing up as males, we’ll absolutely be uncovered.” Due to this fact, Zhong Ling and the ladies gave up the thought.

When everyone seems to be leaving by way of the door of the inn in a single file, Ba Tianshi out of the blue cried out: “Aiyah! We’re in bother! That Murong Fu is making an attempt for the Prince Consort as nicely. He’s somebody who acknowledges Mister Duan. What ought to we do?”

Xiao Feng let loose a smile and defined: “Brother Ba can relaxation straightforward. Like Third Brother Duan, Murong Fu has disappeared with no phrase. Earlier on, I did some investigation. Deng Baichuan and Bao Butong are panicking like ants on a scorching pan.”

Everybody was overjoyed and exclaimed: “What a pleasant coincidence.”

Zhu Danchen chuckled: “Hero Xiao’s consideration is really thorough; you even did your homework on Murong Fu and his entourage.”

Xiao Feng laughed: “Truly, I’m not an intensive individual. In my view, Mister Murong is good-looking and extremely expert in martial arts. He may be thought-about the highest nemesis of Miss Mu. Heh Heh Heh Heh!”

Ba Tianshi snickered: “I see. Hero Xiao had wished to steer Murong Fu to skip tonight’s banquet.”

Vast-eyed, Zhong Ling gushed: “From hundreds of miles away, Murong Fu rushed right here with a purpose to grow to be the Prince Consort, why ought to he hearken to easy persuasion? Hero Xiao, do you and Mister Murong share a deep friendship?”

Ba Tianshi guffawed: “Hero Xiao barely is aware of him. However, Hero Xiao’s fists and legs are very eloquent; Murong Fu can not resist them.”

Understanding the trace, Zhong Ling giggled: “Utilizing fists and legs to steer, after all the latter has to obey.”

At present, the 5 individuals Mu Wangqing, Xiao Feng, Xu Zhu, Ba Tianshi and Zhu Danchen have disembarked on the doorways of the royal palace. Ba Tianshi submitted Duan Yu’s invitation and Xixia’s Minister of Rites personally got here to escort them into the palace.

Arriving at Zhonghe Corridor, they famous 100 odd younger males who’ve already arrived for the banquet. They have been seated all around the corridor. Throughout the corridor, there’s a sure seat which is roofed with yellow satin and adorned with golden dragons. That’s clearly the seat of Xixia’s Emperor. On the east and west, there are one other two seats which might be lined with purple satin. The seat on the east is occupied by a youth with thick eyebrows and huge eyes. With a tall and imposing body, he’s attired in a protracted, crimson gown. Sewn on the gown is a tiger baring its tooth and claws in a show of may. Behind him stood eight warriors. With as soon as look, Ba Tianshi and the remaining simply recognized him as TuBo Nation’s Prince Zhongzan.

The Minister for Rites escorted Mu Wanqing to the purple-satin seat on the west whereas Xiao Feng and the others stood behind her. From this association, it’s evident that among the many quite a few youths current, the 2 Princes from DaLi Nation and TuBo Nation are essentially the most prestigious, thereby having fun with this particular privilege by the Emperor of Xixia. The opposite established martial arts warriors are seated along with the younger masters of rich households. Increasingly persons are streaming into the corridor and getting assigned to their seats.

When the seats are stuffed, two commanding generals supervising the corridor bellowed: “The esteemed visitors are all current. Door to be closed.” Because the sound of beating drums stuffed the air, 4 sentries are slowly closing the 2 massive and thick doorways of the corridor. From a hall, the noise made by armour clanking rang out and out marched a platoon of warriors with lengthy halberds and golden armour. The well-polished halberd suggestions are shimmering brightly within the candlelight. Following this show, the drums began beating once more and two rows of palace aides got here out from the internal corridor. Every of them is carrying an incense pot made out of white jade of their palms and inexperienced smoke is emitting from the pots. Everyone knew that the Emperor is about to make his look and with bated breaths, they watched in full silence.

Behind the entourage, 4 escorts emerged, wearing satin robes and holding nothing of their palms. The 4 of them break up into two teams and have been stationed on the left and proper of the throne. Observing the protruding temples (two sides of brow) of those 4 fellows, Xiao Feng immediately recognized them as martial arts specialists who’re employed as the private bodyguards of the Emperor. An attendant proclaimed aloud: “Welcome the Emperor!” Everybody kneeled down accordingly.

Footsteps may be heard and a person materialized on the hall. After he sat down on the throne, the identical attendant introduced: “You could rise!” The group obtained again on their toes. Scrutinizing the Xixia Emperor, Xiao Feng famous that he’s shorter than the common man and but he has an aura of bravery round him. This Emperor might be not a descendent of an aristocrat or army household however somebody who has risen up from the commoners, a people hero.

Standing beside the throne, the Minister for Rites opened up a scroll and declared in a loud voice: “With accord to the Mandate of Heaven, the Saints and the Deities, Hereby is the Command of Xixia Emperor: Gents have come from afar, Your Majesty (I) will reward you with this toast. Revered conclusion.

The group kneeled down once more to precise their gratitude. The attendant hollered: “You could rise!” Everybody stood up.

The Emperor lifted his cup and made a consuming gesture round his lips earlier than leaving his seat and reentering the internal corridor. Together with his entourage at his heels, the complete group of newcomers vanished neatly in a brief area of time.

Gazing at each other, the complete corridor of males was astounded. With out saying a phrase or consuming a cup of wine, the Emperor is taken into account to have ‘attended’ the banquet. The identical thought goes by way of everybody’s thoughts: He didn’t even take a correct take a look at our appearances; how is he going to decide on his son-in-law?

The Minister for Rites introduced: “Gents, please be seated and benefit from the meals and wine.” A troop of eunuchs started serving dishes of meals. Positioned within the Northwestern area, Xixia is a spot with bitter-cold local weather and the inhabitants primarily survives on beef and mutton. Though this can be a palace banquet, the dishes are primarily massive servings of beef and mutton as nicely.

Feeling awkward that she is the one one sitting whereas the others are standing, Mu Wanqing whispered: “Huge Brother Xiao, Second Brother Xu Zhu, please sit down and be part of me.” Smiling broadly, Xiao Feng and Xu Zhu each shook their heads. Conscious of Xiao Feng’s love for wine, she had an inspiration. Waving her hand, she instructed: “Pour wine!” Listening to her command, Xiao Feng poured a bowl of wine. Mu Wanqing ordered: “This bowl is for you!” Thrilled, Xiao Feng completed the big bowl of wine in two mouthfuls. Mu Wanqing insisted: “One other!” Xiao Feng had one other bowl of wine.

From the seat on the East, the Prince of TuBo drank just a few mouthfuls of wine earlier than selecting up a big piece of beef from his bowl and started consuming. After a number of bites, a big bone is left and he threw the bone apart. Whether or not it was intentional or not, the bone is now flying in direction of Mu Wanqing with a powerful gust of drive, displaying the power of its thrower.

Zhu Danchen retrieved his folding fan and deflected the flying bone, sending it on a return path in direction of Prince Zongzan. A TuBo warrior reached out together with his hand caught the bone. Cursing, he picked up a big bowl from the desk and threw it at Zhu Danchen. Ba Tianshi executed a palm strike and when the bowl flew midway, it met with the drive of the palm strike and shattered into dozens of shards. Because the damaged shards flew in direction of the group of TuBo residents, one other TuBo warrior swiftly eliminated his outer robes and swirled the robes in mid air, netting the handfuls of damaged shards within the robes. His actions have been exact and nicely practiced.

When the younger males arrived on the royal palace for the banquet, everyone seems to be totally conscious of 1 reality: all these current are right here to compete for the Prince Consort. Of their interplay with each other, there is no such thing as a presence of pleasant intentions. Though everybody anticipated a brawl to occur anytime, nondescript preventing began breaking out all around the corridor earlier than anybody knew what was occurring. Listening to the shattering noises of damaged bowls and plates, the group turned boisterous.

Out of the blue, a bell beginning ringing and from the internal corridor, two rows of males emerged. Some have been wearing tight uniforms whereas others have been attired in free robes. No matter outfits, every of them is armed with a novel, oddly formed weapon. Amongst them, an apparent high-ranking Xixia Official who’s wearing a satin gown proclaimed in a thunderous voice: “Gents, throughout the royal palace, please thoughts your manners. Seated amongst you, there are warriors belonging to our nation’s Elite Guild. If gents have an interest, we welcome one-on-one sparring. Rowdy fight is strictly forbidden.”

Xiao Feng and firm are totally conscious that Xixia nation’s Elite Guild is a society which recruits sturdy heroes all around the world. Inside its steady, succesful fighters are aplenty. Ba Tianshi and the others instantly halted their assaults. No matter objects being flung at them by the TuBo warriors, Ba Tianshi, Zhu Danchen and the others caught the objects and positioned them down as an alternative of throwing them again on the opponents. Nonetheless, the TuBo warriors refused to cooperate. After tossing the complete set of cutlery, they’re now hurling items of beef and mutton at Mu Wanqing.

The excessive rating Official in satin robes notified the Prince of TuBo: “I request Your Highness to instruct your males to cease their actions with a purpose to keep away from an disagreeable scenario.” Counting no less than 100 warriors from the Elite Guild and that he’s throughout the palace of one other authority; Prince Zongzan waved his left hand and stopped his escorts.

The Xixia Minister of Rites clasped his palms in direction of the satin-attired high-ranking Official and implored: “East Commandant Helian, does the Princess have any directions?”

This satin-attired high-ranking Official is the chief of Elite Guild Helian Tieshu, official title: Nice Basic of the East. Three years in the past, he led a bunch of warriors from the Elite Guild into the Central Plains (China) however was poisoned by Murong Fu’s whereas he was disguised as Li Yanzong. Helian Tieshu and his males have been initially captured by the Beggar Sect however have been fortunately rescued by Duan Yanqing. They ultimately returned dwelling empty-handed. Throughout that journey, Helian Tieshu has met a faux Xiao Feng, which is Ah Zhu in disguise and a faux Murong Fu, which is Duan Yu in disguise. Presently, within the corridor, he’s unable to establish the true Xiao Feng and the faux Duan Yu. Duan Yanqing, the Divine Crocodile of the Southern Sea, in addition to the 2 different Evils are thought-about members of the Elite Guild. However, they typically act independently and are usually not subjugated to the Xixia Imperial Courtroom.

In a crisp and loud voice, Helian Tieshu introduced: “The Princess has decreed: After the esteemed visitors have completed their dinner and wine, she welcomes everyone to the Inexperienced Phoenix Courtroom’s exterior examine chamber for tea.”

Listening to his phrases, everybody reacted with an ‘Oh!’ sound. It is not uncommon information that (Xixia) Princess Yinchuan resides inside Inexperienced Phoenix Courtroom. Since she is inviting everyone there for tea, she should have wished to look at the candidates together with her personal eyes and personally choose her personal husband. The group of younger males was overjoyed, each considered one of them considering: Even when I’m not chosen by Princess, no less than I’ve seen her with my very own eyes. The individuals of Xixia have at all times described their Princess as a flawless magnificence, her complexion and options second to none. If I can meet the Princess within the flesh, this lengthy and tiresome journey would have been value it.

Utilizing his sleeve to wipe his mouth, the Prince of TuBo stood up and exclaimed: “We will at all times eat and drink at our leisure, however now is just not the event for that. Let’s take a look on the Princess!”

The eight TuBo warriors in his escort group resounded in a single reply: “Sure Prince!”

Turning to Helian Tieshu, the TuBo Prince ordered: “Please cleared the path!”

Helian Tieshu replied: “Positive, Your Highness, please.”

Turning to Mu Wanqing, Helian Tieshu clasped his palms and invited: “Your Highness Duan, please.”

In a tough voice and method, Mu Wanqing accepted: “Basic, please.”

Led by Helian Tieshu, the group reduce by way of a big backyard and traversed just a few corridors. Passing a row of pretend mountains, Mu Wanqing out of the blue felt a further presence beside her. Squinting her eyes for a side-glance, she was astonished and cried out with an ‘Ah!’ sound. Neatly wearing brocade, it was Duan Yu.

Leaping again to the nicely episode, Duan Yu’s throat is being strangled by Jiumozhi. Feeling in need of breath, he’s about to faint. Excessive above them, Murong Fu is plastered in opposition to the wall and having fun with the chaos. He was smiling to himself and may’t look forward to Jiumozhi to strangle Duan Yu to demise. Wang Yuyan is hitting Jiumozhi with each final ounce of her power however to no avail. Freaking out, she abruptly opened her mouth and bit Jiumozhi on his proper arm.

Feeling a pointy ache on his proper arm ‘Quchi’ level, Jiumozhi skilled the outflow of all his uncontrollable inside energies in a brief span of time. Because the energies have been channeled from his palm to Duan Yu’s throat, all his ache from inside swelling in addition to the sensation of physique explosion evaporated. With these damaging energies gone, he was relieved from his discomfort and his fingers gripping on Duan Yu’s throat regularly relaxed.

In his follow of martial arts, Jiumozhi’s basis is rock strong and his mastery is thorough; nobody can doubt his unshakeable energy. Though he’s in bodily contact with Duan Yu, he prevented contact with Duan Yu’s thumb and wrist acupoints. Due to this fact, Duan Yu can not activate his and soak up his inside vitality. Presently, because of Wang Yuyan biting on his ‘Quchi’ level, Jiumozhi was alarmed and opened up the meridian pathways, permitting the inner energies to be leaked out seamlessly into Duan Yu’s throat ‘Nianquan’ level. ‘Nianquan’ level is some extent alongside the Ren Meridian. Passing by way of ‘Tiantu’, ‘Xuanji’, ‘Huagai’, ‘Zhigong’ and ‘Zhongting’ factors, the energies will accumulate on the vitality reservoir ‘Danzhong’ level.

Together with his inside energies initially going haywire, Jiumozhi has misplaced his senses. Now, he regained his readability of thoughts and was horrified. He thought: Aiya! On the velocity that he’s absorbing my inside vitality, it will not be too lengthy earlier than I lose all my martial arts. What ought to I do?

Directly, he activated some inside vitality to withstand the leak however it’s too late. At first, his inside vitality is already not as plentiful as Duan Yu’s. Now that the move has begun, his loss is Duan Yu’s achieve. Unable to maneuver each his palms regardless of exerting all his power, there was no holding again because the energies left his physique in big surges.

In the dead of night, Wang Yuyan was significantly comforted that Jiumozhi has loosen his maintain on Duan Yu’s throats after her chew. Nonetheless, Jiumozhi’s palms are nonetheless wrapped round Duan Yu’s throat and no matter her efforts, his palms merely can’t be pried open. Though she is nicely versed with all of the martial arts of varied sects and colleges, she can not fathom this transfer of Jiumozhi. Nonetheless, in the long term, it isn’t helpful for Duan Yu to be on this place. Thus, she endured in pulling aside Jiumozhi’s palms. In the identical breath, Jiumozhi hoped for her to succeed as nicely. Unexpectedly, Wang Yuyan had a chilly spasm assault and she or he might really feel her inside vitality leaving her physique too. It seems that Duan Yu’s doesn’t differentiate between our bodies and absorbed Wang Yuyan’s shallow energies as nicely. In a couple of minutes, the three individuals Duan Yu, Wang Yuyan and Jiumozhi fainted concurrently.

After a protracted wait, Murong Fu is unable to detect any noise from the three of them. After calling out to them and never getting any replies, he thought: Seems just like the three of them have perished collectively.

First, he was thrilled, however reminiscing about his relationship with Wang Yuyan, he felt some components of sorrow. He then thought: Aiya! Giant rocks have sealed the exit of the nicely, trapping us inside. If the three of them are nonetheless alive, with our 4 mixed power, maybe we will make our method out of this predicament. Now that I’m on their lonesome, it’s virtually not possible. Ai, for the reason that three of you’ll struggle to demise anyway, why do not you wait till we’re out of the nicely earlier than preventing?

Utilizing his arm, he tried to heave the rocks upwards. Neatly stacked, the ten odd rocks weigh greater than a thousand catties altogether; it would take greater than Murong Fu alone for them to budge an inch.

Depressed, Murong Fu was about to leap again to the underside of the nicely however upon nearer statement, he heard voices outdoors the nicely. From the noisy banter, it have to be some villagers of Xixia. It turned out that the 4 of them had spent a variety of time tussling with each other. The solar is already up and the agricultural farmers residing outdoors town are actually transporting their produce into Lingzhou Metropolis for hawking. Their normal route will take them close to the nicely.

Murong Fu contemplated: If I cry for assist, these villagers might not have the ability to cart away these monumental and heavy boulders. Even when they began to maneuver the rocks, there’s nothing to cease them from giving up midway. I need to use greed as a motivation.

In consequence, he yelled: “These treasures of gold and silver are mine. The 2 of it’s essential to know your home. Having stated that, I do not thoughts giving three thousand taels of silver to every of you.” Following that, he exclaimed with a pointy voice: “This place is stuffed with numerous treasure. Finders Keepers. Everyone deserves an equal share of every thing right here.” Utilizing a hoarse voice, he proclaimed: “Do not let anybody else hear you. Finders Keepers it’s. Though the property listed here are plentiful, any further individual will dilute our share.” This faux dialog is being blasted out loud utilizing his inside vitality, making it audible to everybody within the space.

All of the villagers might choose up this alternate, and have been excited with delight. Like a swarm of bees, everybody started tearing down the rocks sealing the nicely. Though the rocks have been heavy, below everyone’s cooperation, good progress is being made. Murong Fu didn’t look forward to all of the rocks to be fully eliminated. As soon as he noticed a niche that’s sufficiently big for him to slide by way of, he used the wall as a launch pad and shot out of the nicely in a speedy sprint.

The farmers have been shocked as Murong Fu appeared and disappeared as shortly in an unknown route. Though there’s some worry of the supernatural, however lured by the temptation of fast wealth, they continued to push the rocks apart. As soon as the rocks are accomplished dismantled, ropes that have been used to bundle the firewood and greens have been co-joined into one lengthy rope. With that rope, the bravest volunteer was lowered into the nicely.

When this man arrived on the backside of the nicely, he started feeling round and touched Jiumozhi in his first motion. Stirring a immobile physique and assuming it was a corpse, the person was scared out of his wits and desperately clutch on the rope. Lastly, he was being lifted out of the nicely. Among the villagers are nonetheless unconvinced; after a spherical of debate, just a few pine wooden branches are lighted up as torches earlier than one other go to to the underside of the nicely is made. All they discovered have been the three ‘corpses’ mendacity within the muddy particles and so they assumed these three have died for a while already. There was no treasure in any respect! Since lives have been misplaced and if the authorities have been notified, these villagers might be framed for homicide. In a state of hysteria, everybody swiftly disperse. Again at dwelling, some villagers complained of complications whereas others have been down with fever. Earlier than lengthy, because of ignorant of us gossiping and obscuring the small print, the usual delusion is that each time there’s a full moon evening, there shall be 4 muddy spirits creating bother across the nicely. Anybody who sees them will expertise complications and fever, and the one treatment is by providing prayers. From that day onwards, apart from the deserted nicely, there can be frequent burning of incense whatever the event.

It was within the afternoon when the three individuals on the backside of the nicely beginning regaining consciousness one after one other. The primary get up is Wang Yuyan. Her inside vitality cultivation is shallow and though she misplaced all of it, it barely made a distinction to her. The minute she recovered her wits, her first pure response is to find Duan Yu. Though the sky is brilliant and lit, deep throughout the nicely, it’s nonetheless not possible for her to see something. Utilizing her palms to really feel round, she got here into contact with Duan Yu and exclaimed: “Duan Mate, Duan Mate, You… You… How are you?” With out getting any response from Duan Yu, she presumed that Jiumozhi has strangled him to demise. Unable to manage herself, she hugged his corpse tightly in entrance of her chest and cried her coronary heart out: “Duan Mate, Duan Mate, you liked me from the underside of your coronary heart and but not as soon as did I show a form phrase or gesture to you. My solely want is to serve you as your associate for the remainder of your life, repaying your love, nonetheless… nonetheless… Our lives are filled with misfortunes. At this time, you lose your life to an evil monk…”

Jiumozhi out of the blue interrupted: “Miss is barely half appropriate. Previous Monk (I) might an evil monk however Mister Duan didn’t perish by my palms.”

Wang Yuyan was thunderstruck: “Might it’s… Might it’s my Cousin who killed him? He… Why is he so vicious?”

At this prompt, Duan Yu’s new inside energies have built-in together with his physique and he regained consciousness too. Listening to Wang Yuyan’s coquettish voice apart from his ear, he was jubilant. Having fun with the feeling of being hugged by her, he remained nonetheless. He didn’t need her to search out out that he has awaken as a result of she would then launch him from her bosom.

Jiumozhi declared: “Not solely did your Duan Mate fail to die by Evil Monk’s (my) hand, it was the precise reverse. Evil Monk (I) practically misplaced my life by the hands of Duan Mate.”

Wang Yuyan sobbed: “At this time limit, you might be nonetheless within the temper for jokes. You haven’t any concept the quantity of grief that’s going by way of my coronary heart. Why do not you strangle me to demise too, in order that I can accompany Duan Mate within the Afterlife.” Listening to the sturdy conviction in her phrases, Duan Yu is extraordinarily flattered and intoxicated with pleasure.

Though Jiumozhi has misplaced all his inside vitality, his thoughts remains to be as sharp and alert as earlier than. Noticing Duan Yu’s gentle respiration sounds and his apparent suppression of his respiration, he might simply guess what Duan Yu is as much as. Letting out a comfortable sigh, he described: “Mister Duan, I made a mistake in studying the 72 Legendary Expertise of Shaolin, inflicting my inside vitality to go haywire and deviate. I used to be on the point of demise and if not for you absorbing all my inside power, Previous Monk (I) would have perished from insanity. Presently, though Previous Monk has misplaced all my martial arts expertise, I’m able to protect my life. For that, I must pay my respects to you with a purpose to thanks for saving my life.”

Duan Yu is an upright and humble gentleman. Listening to that Jiumozhi goes to pay respects to himself, he can not tolerate it and replied: “Nice Grasp needn’t be so formal. Junior (I) is inept and amateurish, I dare not declare to have saved Nice Grasp’s (your) life.”

Listening to Duan Yu converse out, Wang Yuyan was ecstatic and shocked on the similar time. In a flash, she promptly understood that Duan Yu deliberately remained nonetheless in order that she is going to proceed hugging him. Nice embarrassed, she forcefully pushed him apart and whined: “Rogue!”

His trick uncovered by Wang Yuyan, Duan Yi was red-faced with embarrassment. He rapidly stood up and leaned in opposition to the wall of the nicely.

Jiumozhi sighed: “Previous Monk (I) could also be a Buddhist however my need for fulfillment is stronger than the widespread man. The supply of my current scenario began thirty years in the past. Ai, the three poisons Greed, Hatred, Delusion; I’m responsible of all of them. But I proclaimed I’m a Senior Monk. Stuffed with conceitedness and lack of regrets, Ai, after I die, I’ll most likely be condemned to Everlasting Hell with no likelihood of reincarnation.”

Duan Yu is at present distressed, questioning if Wang Yuyan remains to be indignant with him. Listening to Jiumozhi’s miserable feedback, his compassionate facet got here out and he inquired: “Nice Grasp (You) is simply too harsh on your self. Concerning Nice Grasp’s earlier discomfort, has the agony been totally relieved?”

Jiumozhi saved his silence for a very long time. Secretly activating his inside vitality, he’s instantaneously conscious that his years of laborious cultivation have resulted in naught. He was initially a smart and type monk, and his examine of Buddhism is all encompassing and superior. When he began studying martial arts, his need to win fights enhance day-to-day and in the identical be aware, his kindness and Buddhist knowledge lower accordingly. Lastly, every thing cumulated into him sitting in a pile of muddy particles. He can not assist however evoke: Gotama Budddha taught the Dhamma, instructing his disciples to lose Greed, lose Attachment, lose Want and lose Clinging with a purpose to be enlightened. I didn’t handle to lose a single considered one of them. Fame and riches are tightly bonded to me. At this time, I misplaced all my martial arts, it have to be a Dhamma lesson to me, presenting me with an opportunity to eliminate my evil methods and return to the Mild facet with a recent starting.

Remembering the deeds he dedicated over the a long time, he was full of huge quantities of guilt and sorrow. Quickly, his brow began dripping with perspiration.

Since Jiumozhi saved quiet, Duan Yu probed Wang Yuyan: “The place is Mister Murong?”

Wang Yuyan cried ‘Ah!’ and uttered: “The place is Cousin? Aiyo, I’ve fully forgotten all about him.”

Listening to her talked about the phrases: I’ve fully forgotten all about him, Duan Yu is exhilarated. Nothing might make him happier. Previously, Wang Yuyan is totally dedicated to Murong Fu’s welfare. Proper now, a lot time has glided by with out her expressing concern about him. It’s evident that her sincerity in direction of himself (DY) is real. Inside her coronary heart, he (DY) has changed Murong Fu’s place.

Jiumozhi interrupted: “Previous Monk (I) has offended you many instances up to now. Please forgive me.” As he spoke, he put his palms collectively and made a bow. Though Duan Yu can not see him in the dead of night, he hurriedly returned the courtesy. He reminded: “If not for Nice Grasp (you) kidnapping Junior (I) and bringing me to the Central Plains (China), Junior (I) wouldn’t have crossed paths with Miss Wang. Junior (I) is stuffed with gratitude in direction of Nice Grasp (you).”

Jiumozhi remarked: “That’s as a result of good karma that Mister has collected. Previous Monk’s (I) evil act unexpectedly linked the 2 of you. Mister is benevolent and beneficiant; your success is limitless. Previous Monk (I) is bidding farewell as we speak. Sooner or later, we shall be separated by hundreds of miles and a reunion is troublesome. This Sutra, if it isn’t an excessive amount of bother for Mister, please assist Previous Monk to return it to Shaolin Monastery. Could the 2 of you be wedded in a blissful marriage and develop previous collectively.” As he spoke, he handed the muddy copy of Yijing Sutra to Duan Yu.

Duan Yu requested: “Is Nice Grasp going again to TuBo nation?”

Jiumozhi replied: “I need to return to the place I come from. That won’t needed be TuBo nation.”

Duan Yu continued: “Your esteemed Prince is proposing marriage to the Princess of Xixia, Nice Grasp is just not going to attend for the result?”

Jiumozhi smiled: “As an unworldly monk, I’m not be bothered by these affairs. From as we speak onwards, Previous Monk (I) will lead a wandering life. Wherever I am going, I’m at peace. When I’m at peace, the thoughts shall be joyful. When the thoughts is joyful, I shall be at equanimity.” As he spoke, he pulled on the rope left behind by the farmers. Testing it, he accurately guessed it’s secured to one of many massive rocks above. As such, he slowly climbed out of the nicely.

With this newfound inspiration, Jiumozhi turned an Ariya, a Noble Monk. He spent the remainder of his life translating Buddhist Sutras from Pali to Tibetian language, spreading the Dhamma and giving Buddhist refuge to numerous people. Within the later years, when the Pali teachings are slowly disappearing in lots of locations, Tibet manages to retain the complete set of unique Sutras. This credit score is because of Jiumozhi.

Going through one another in such shut proximity that they’ll sense one another’s breath, Duan Yu and Wang Yuyan are full of happiness regardless of being soaked in mud. Neither of them considered leaving the nicely. On the similar second, the 2 of them slowly reached out their palms. Because the 4 palms grasped collectively, it signifies their congruent considering.

After a very long time, Wang Yuyan remarked: “Duan Mate, I’m nonetheless apprehensive about his (JMZ) strangulation of your throat. We could climb up and examine for indicators of harm?”

Duan Yu assured: “I don’t really feel in the least of ache and am not in a rush to climb out.”

In a mild voice, Wang Yuyan cooed: “If you don’t want to go up, I shall accompany you proper the place you might be.” She was totally submissive with no tinge of objection.

Feeling dangerous, Duan Yu chuckled: “For those who proceed soaking on this muddy particles, would not it’s dangerous for you?” Embracing her slender waist together with his left arm, he pulled on the rope together with his proper arm. He was amazed at his newfound power; with a small tug, the 2 of them have floated up by a number of toes. Duan Yu was elated. He questioned if this new power got here from Jiumozhi’s lifetime’s cultivation of inside vitality or as a result of he’s in good spirits and nicely rested from sleeping within the nicely.

Exiting the nicely, the 2 of them scrutinize one another below the daylight. Each of them are lined in mud and soiled past measure. To a sure extent, their appearances have by no means been extra related and each of them burst out laughing at this statement. Their subsequent plan of action is to find a close-by river and bounce inside for a protracted bathe. Lastly, all of the mud has been cleaned from their hair, mouths, noses, garments, footwear, socks, and many others. As the 2 of them emerge dripping moist from the river, they’re reminded in regards to the event two nights in the past when Duan Yu fell into the pond. Though the state of affairs is just like now, their feelings have taken a paradigm shift. It felt like they have been in an alternate universe.

Wang Yuyan highlighted: “We glance dreadful. If we run into anybody, I’d be so embarrassed.”

Duan Yu urged: “Why do not we dry ourselves right here and solely proceed again when the sky is darkish?” Wang Yuyan nodded her head in settlement and leaned in opposition to a big mountain boulder.

Duan Yu ran his eyes over her intimately. His lover resembled a chunk of uncommon jade. With water nonetheless dripping from her hair, he was thrilled on the alluring sight. His habits brought on Wang Yuyan to be significantly disconcerted and she or he turned her beautiful face away from him. The 2 of them bantered with one another on some uninteresting topics. Occasions flies when one is having enjoyable. In a blink of an eye fixed, the solar has already set and all their garments, footwear and socks have been dried.

Accompanied by Wang Yuyan, Duan Yu is full of pleasure. Out of the blue, he considered Murong Fu and questioned out loud: “Sister Yan (Yan Mate, not that form of sister), presently, all my goals have been fulfilled and even being a deity can not match my satisfaction. Nonetheless, I’m interested in your Cousin’s quest to marry the Princess of Xixia. Did he fulfill his dream too or not?”

Previously, this difficulty will trigger Wang Yuyan to breakdown with sorrow. Together with her newfound happiness, she secretly felt dangerous about Murong Fu’s scenario. Proper now, she as an alternative yearned for him to efficiently marry the Princess of Xixia. Wang Yuyan exclaimed: “I’m curious too. Let’s test it out.”

The 2 of them shortly made their method again to the inn. Nearly reaching the doorway, a voice spoke out from the facet of a close-by wall: “You two are right here as nicely?”

The voice belonged to Murong Fu. Duan Yu and Wang Yuyan cheerfully answered: “Sure, we’re. We didn’t count on to see you right here.”

Murong Fu let loose a ‘humph’ and articulated: “I simply concluded a skirmish with a number of TuBo warriors and killed greater than ten of them. They’ve wasted a lot of my time. Fellow surnamed Duan (DY), why did not you attend the royal palace banquet by yourself however organized for a girl to masquerade as you? I… I can’t tolerate your schemes and I’ll expose you for positive.”

After dashing out from the nicely, Murong showered, modified his garments and had a superb relaxation. Upon waking up, he bumped into the TuBo warriors and so they started preventing. Though he ultimately received, he did expend a substantial quantity of vitality. Arriving again on the inn, he was simply in time to witness Mu Wanqing, Xiao Feng, Ba Tianshi and the others popping out. Hiding behind a wall to evaluate his environment, he was about to search for Deng Baichuan and the others for a dialogue when he noticed Duan Yu and Wang Yuyan strolling over in an intimate vogue.

Duan Yu was baffled: “A woman is masquerading as me? I do know nothing about it.”

Wang Yuyan defined: “Cousin, we simply got here out from the nicely…” She stopped talking as a result of that assertion is just not true, for she had spent half a day flirting with Duan Yu together with a hill as an alternative of actually popping out of the nicely. Her face turned crimson unconsciously.

Happily, the sky has darkened considerably and Murong Fu didn’t discover the reddening of her face. In his hurry to make it for the palace banquet, he didn’t discern that Wang Yuyan has been fully devoid of muddy particles and positively didn’t climb out of the nicely minutes in the past. All he heard was Wang Yuyan persevering with: “Cousin, he… he… Mister Duan… and I, we beg your pardon and sincerely sit up for your profitable marriage to the Princess of Xixia.”

His spirits lifted, Murong Fu gleefully requested: “Is that true? Brother Duan is just not going to compete with me for the Prince Consort?” In his thoughts, he analyzed: Seems like this bookworm is having one other bout of stupidity and isn’t planning to grow to be the Prince Consort of Xixia. As an alternative, he’s totally dedicated to marrying my Cousin. It’s hilarious to know that such a muddle-headed idiot really exists on this world. With Xiao Feng and Xu Zhu helping him, I’d have gotten rid of my strongest nemesis ought to he selected to decide out.

Duan Yu swore: “I promise to not compete with you for the Princess of Xixia, nonetheless, it’s essential to guarantee me that you’ll not come after my Sister Yan (WYY) too. A person’s phrase is his bond, there shall be no exceptions.” Encountering Murong Fu, he (DY) can not assist however really feel barely unsettled.

Murong Fu was jubilant: “We nonetheless must hurry to the royal palace. You have to instruct that girl to cease masquerading as you.” He then shortly defined his witnessing of Mu Wanqing disguised as a person. Duan Yu deduced that because of his personal disappearance, with a purpose to fulfill their obligations to Lord Zhennan, Ba Tianshi and Zhu Danchen should have goaded Mu Wanqing into disguising herself and looking for marriage on behalf of him (DY). The three of them rushed over to Murong Fu’s residence.

Deng Baichuan and the others have been apprehensive sick. Upon discovering the return of Murong Fu, everybody was overjoyed. With the clock in opposition to them, everybody scrambled into their banquet outfits. No matter persuasion, Duan Yu refused to be separated from Wang Yuyan. He would moderately skip the palace go to. Having no selection, Murong Fu ready a set of male clothes for Wang Yuyan. Collectively, they set off for the palace.

When Deng Baichuan, Gongzhi Qian, Bao Butong, Feng BoE and the three of them arrived on the royal palace, the doorways have been already shut. Murong Fu won’t merely hand over due to this minor impediment. He snuck to an space of the palace wall the place it’s comparatively quiet and slithered inside. Feng BoE leapt onto the wall and reached out his hand for Duan Yu. Utilizing his left arm to hug Wang Yuyan, Duan Yu exerted his vitality for a bounce, his proper hand reaching out for Feng BoE’s. Unexpectedly, with this bounce, the 2 of them gently floated over Feng BoE’s head and even exceeded his peak by a full metre. Following that, they softly descended in a single fluid, noiseless motion. Murong Fu from throughout the palace; Feng BoE on the wall; Deng Baichuan and Gongzhi Qian outdoors the palace quietly marveled in unison: “Glorious Qing-gong! (Pace journey / Soar Ability)” Solely Bao Butong digressed: “A typical feat.”

The seven of them discovered themselves within the royal backyard and are attempting to find the banquet corridor, planning to slide inside and take part within the occasion. Unknown to them, proper at this second, the banquet has ended and Yinchuan Princess has invited the marriage candidates to Inexperienced Phoenix Courtroom for tea. The three individuals Duan Yu, Murong Fu and Wang Yuyan bumped into Mu Wanqing on the royal backyard.

Xiao Feng, Ba Tianshi and the others noticed Duan Yu showing out of nowhere like a ghost and have been full of shock and exhilaration. Everybody engaged in a secret dialogue. They conclude: There are numerous proposers and the officers of Xixia are doubtless not meticulous sufficient to note the extra presence of newcomers. So long as everybody mixes round within the crowd, they need to have the ability to attain Inexperienced Phoenix Courtroom with none issues. Moreover, since Duan Yu is personally current, there is no such thing as a worry of publicity.

Because the row of people travelled by way of the royal backyard, from afar, a nook of a loft may be sighted whereas the remainder of the constructing is nicely hid by timber and bushes. On the entrance of the premises, two beaming palace lanterns stood out. Gathering the group in entrance of the Courtroom, Helian Tieshu loudly introduced: “The esteemed gents from 4 corners of the world are right here to hunt an viewers with the Princess.”

The doorways of the Courtroom swung open and out got here 4 palace maids, every carrying a skinny mesh lantern. Behind them, a feminine official wearing purple clothes appeared and proclaimed: “Gents should have endured many hardships in your travels. The Princess hereby invitations you (all) into Inexperienced Phoenix Courtroom for a tea session.”

Prince Zongzan laughed: “Glorious, glorious, I used to be simply feeling thirsty. To satisfy the Princess, these travelling are trivial issues. There isn’t any hardship in any respect. Hahahaha!” As he spoke, he proudly moved ahead and bypassed the feminine Official, taking big steps into the Courtroom. The remaining individuals began shoving each other, making an attempt their greatest to hurry into the Courtroom. Everybody wished to seize a superb seat and be as near the Princess as doable.

As an alternative, contained in the Courtroom, they have been greeted by a big gallery. A thick layer of wool carpet was laid on the ground, and the carpet itself is designed with a brilliant array of colors and flowers, a fascinating sight to behold. A collection of tea tables have been neatly organized and on every desk, there’s a inexperienced tea cup with a inexperienced lid. Moreover, every cup, there’s a inexperienced plate and on every plate, there are cheese, biscuits and 4 varieties of dim sum (pastry). On the finish of the gallery, a few metre off the ground, there’s a raised platform which is roofed with a light-weight yellow carpet. On the platform was a spherical seat lined in satin. The individuals naturally assumed that’s the place the Princess shall be seated. Pushing and shoving each other, they proceed to take a seat as near the platform as doable. Solely Duan Yu and Wang Yuyan have been holding palms and seated at tea desk at a nook of the gallery. Whispering amongst themselves and laughing continuously, they might not be bothered with their environment.

When everybody has lastly chosen their seats, the feminine Official raised a copper hammer and knocked thrice on a chunk white jade gong. Ting! Ting! Ting! The gallery turned fully silent and even Duan Yu and Wang Yuyan stopped their dialog too, anticipating the arrival of the Princess.

After a short wait, the sound of jingling equipment may be heard. From the internal room, eight palace maids in inexperienced clothes walked out and shaped two rows. Moments later, wearing a light-weight inexperienced robe, a younger girl gracefully emerged.

Everybody’s eyes lit up, noting her slender determine and fashionable exuberance. Her options are really breathtaking. Everybody was secretly cheered: Hearsay has it that Princess Yinchuan’s magnificence is incomparable; the rumours are true in any case.

Murong Fu thought: Initially, I used to be involved that Princess Yinchuan’s look can be missing. Though she is barely much less engaging than Cousin, based mostly on her appears to be like, she is already one in one million. My earlier worries have been unwarranted. Sooner or later once I grow to be the Emperor of Nice Yan, she and her queenly character shall be exemplary to all of the residents of Yan. Our descendants shall rule the Yan Empire eternally.

The younger girl regularly walked up the platform and bowed barely, paying her respects to the group. When she first appeared, the group is already on their toes. Noting her bowing gesture, everybody returned the courtesy. Admiring her humble demeanor and absence of conceitedness, these current are filled with reward. The younger girl merely gazed at her personal chest and physique; there was no eye contact with the viewers, exhibiting a nervous look. No one dare to make a sound lest it will trigger alarm to her. Of their minds, they thought: The Princess is of royal standing and for more often than not, she most likely saved to herself. Out of a sudden, she is surrounded by scores of males. Her mannerism is logical and befitting of her prestigious standing.

After a while, the face of the younger woman reddened. In a comfortable and delicate voice, she introduced: “The Princess has decreed: Esteemed visitors have come from afar. Inexperienced Phoenix Courtroom is responsible of providing inferior tea and snacks to gents, (humble speak) and our lack of hospitality. Everybody, please benefit from the refreshments.”

The group was completely shocked and glanced at each other. They secretly kicked themselves: Idi0t. She is just not the Princess however might be a palace maid that’s assigned to the Princess. A mere palace maid is already bestowed with such magnificence; the Princess herself have to be much more excellent. Of their self-tirade, there are components of cheerful anticipation as nicely.

Prince Zongzan demanded: “So you aren’t the Princess. On this case, please invite the Princess to return out. I forgoed scrumptious meat and wine to be right here. These tea and snacks hardly tempt my urge for food.”

The palace maid replied: “When everybody has completed their tea and snacks, the Princess will launch further directions.”

Zongzan chuckled: “Very nicely, very nicely. Since Princess has given her orders, we should always respect her needs.” Lifting the lid and cup, he eliminated the lid and positioned it apart. Subsequent, he poured the complete cup of tea and all of the tealeaves into his mouth. With a gulp, he swallowed all of the tea and is now chewing on the tealeaves. When the individuals of TuBo have tea, they normally add salt and cheese to it. In a single concoction, they’d swallow the combination of tealeaves, salt and cheese. Earlier than he completed swallowing the tealeaves, Prince Zongzan has picked up the pastries and started stuffing himself. Nonetheless chewing, he stammered: “All proper. As ordered, I’ve completed my meals. You’ll be able to invite the Princess now!”

In a small voice, the palace maid answered: “Sure”. Nonetheless, she didn’t transfer from her spot. Zongzan knew she is ready for everyone to complete the refreshments earlier than notifying the Princess. His coronary heart full of impatience, he beginning urging continuous: “Hey everybody, eat shortly. Sooner! It’s only tealeaves; it’s no massive deal.” With some problem, the general public current have consumed their tea and snacks. Prince Zongzan questioned: “We’re accomplished, proper?”

The face of the palace maid turned barely reddish. With a shy expression, she states: “Your Highness Princess hereby welcomes everybody to maneuver into the Inside Research and admire her assortment of books and work.”

Zongzan grumbled: “Hey, what’s attention-grabbing about books and work? Even when it’s a portray of a magnificence, I’d moderately take a look at the precise individual. In a portray, you can not contact her; you can not odor her. It’s all faux.” However, he stood up.

Standing up too, Murong Fu was secretly happy. He assessed: That is fantastic. Because the Princess desires us to proceed to her examine and admire her books and work, she ought to be testing us on our literacy expertise. Prince Zongzan is a boorish and uneducated lout. He has no information or appreciation for poetry, songs, calligraphy and work. The minute he shows his ignorance, he would most likely be pushed out by the Princess. When it comes to martial arts, no one right here is my match. Now that Princess is testing our educational means, the scenario is much more advantageous for me.

The Palace maid introduced: “The Princess has decreed: These females who’re disguised as males and people males who’re above forty years previous, please stay in Ningxiang Gallery for a relaxation and extra tea. The opposite esteemed visitors, please proceed to the Inside Research.”

Mu Wangqing and Wan Yuyan have been secretly alarmed. They thought: They (Xixia) should have seen by way of our disguise a very long time in the past.

Somebody abruptly shouted: “Not proper, not proper!” (no method, not so, not true)

The face of the palace maid turned even redder. She entered the palace as a baby and since she turned of age, at most she would solely are available contact with the half-male half feminine eunuchs. She has by no means seen a full-grown man earlier than, together with the Emperor and the Crown Prince. Out of a sudden, she is going through dozens of males and is of course disconcerted and shy. After a pause, she probed: “I ponder what sensible concept does this gentleman want to advise?”

Bao Butong retorted: “Good concept; I haven’t got. Lowly recommendation; I occurred to have one.” For the palace maid, it’s the first time she is assembly somebody like Bao Butong who likes to twist phrases into meaningless functions for his personal profit. She is at an entire loss. Bao Butong continued: “I guessed you’d be asking me for my lowly recommendation. Taking a look at your nervous mannerisms, let me prevent the difficulty of asking and provides the recommendation proper now.”

The palace maid smiled: “Many thanks Mister.”

Bao Butong articulated: “We travelled hundreds of miles with a purpose to meet the Princess. Alongside the way in which, we encountered quite a few hardships. There are those that died of thirst whereas crossing the desert; there have been those that have been consumed by wild beasts; there have been those that have been killed by the soldiers of TuBo Prince. To reach safely at Lingzhou, I’d estimate eight or 9 individuals have died out of each ten who made the journey to return right here. Everyone’s need is to admire the Princess’s magnificence. Nonetheless, as a result of my father and mom gave delivery to me early by just a few years, I’m now above forty years previous. All my hardships have been for naught. If I knew earlier, I’d have requested to be born later as an alternative.”

Overlaying her mouth to stifle amusing, the palace girl giggled: “Mister Bao have to be joking. How can one determine one’s time of delivery?”

Listening to Bao Butong’s nonsensical droning, Zongzan stared at him with displeasure. He scolded: “Because the Princess has given her orders, let’s simply obey them. What are you babbling about?”

Bao Butong frostily countered: “Your Highness (ZZ), these phrases are to your benefit as nicely. This yr, you might be forty-one years previous. Though you aren’t thought-about previous, your age has exceeded forty and you can be banned from assembly the Princess too. Two days in the past, I calculated your Eight Characters: Bingyin 12 months, Gengzi Month, Yichou Day and Dingmao Hour. Sure, you might be forty-one this yr.”

In precise reality, Prince Zongzan is barely twenty-eight years previous. Nonetheless, with a face filled with beard, it’s moderately powerful to estimate his age. For the palace maid, it’s the first time she is seeing an grownup male. Naturally, she didn’t know choose a person’s age by his look. Moreover, she can not inform if Bao Butong is telling the reality or mendacity. All she might understand is Prince Zongzan’s infuriated expression as he’s about to stroll over and provides Bao Butong a bashing. Frightened out of her wits, she stammered: “I feel… I feel everybody ought to be totally conscious of his personal age. These above forty, please keep right here. These under forty, please proceed to the Inside Research.”

Zongzan exclaimed: “Glorious, I’m not even thirty of age; after all I’m going to the examine.” As he spoke, he strode into the internal corridor. Mimicking him, Bao Butong exclaimed: “Glorious, I’m not even eighty of age; after all I’m going to the examine. In spite of everything, age is only a quantity and I’m younger at coronary heart. In actual fact, I’m younger and particular at coronary heart.” With a flip of his physique, he stepped inside. Even when the palace maid wished to restrain him, she was too embarrassed to take action.

The remainder of the group began dashing into the internal chamber. Even those that are of their forties, fifties and sixties entered as nicely. On the finish of the day, solely a number of older of us with severe bearings and self-respect stayed behind within the gallery.

Mu Wanqing and Wang Yuyan determined to remain too. Duan Yu initially wished to remain behind and accompany Wang Yuyan; nonetheless, Wang Yuyan insisted that he should proceed and do his greatest to help Murong Fu. Solely then did Duan Yu unwillingly enter the internal chamber. With each step he took, he glanced again at her reluctantly. He behaved as if he’s going away on a protracted sea voyage and they are going to be separated for a number of years.

Because the row of candidates make their method by way of a protracted and deep tunnel, the identical puzzled ideas are going by way of their thoughts: “From outdoors, Inexperienced Phoenix Courtroom is hardly awe-inspiring however inside, it’s like coming into one other dimension. To suppose that such an infinite place really exists. After shedding depend of the variety of steps they took, the gents got here earlier than two gigantic stone doorways.”

Producing a small piece of metallic, the palace maid knocked on the stone doorways with a Zeng! Zeng! Zeng! sound. Zha….. The stone doorways swung open. Observing the compact stone doorways that are about one foot thick, everybody muttered to himself: The minute we enter and the stone doorways are closed behind us, would not we be trapped? Might it’s a scheme by Xixia Nation? Utilizing the Princess’s marriage ceremony as a bait to lure heroes all around the world into assembly their doom?

Beneath the current circumstances, everybody additionally acknowledges the very fact: No enterprise, no achieve. Due to this fact, nobody is keen to showcase his worry and beat a retreat.

As the group passes by way of the door, the stone doorways have been promptly closed once more. One other lengthy tunnel presents itself and oil lamps lighted either side of the tunnel. After this tunnel, they got here to a second set of stone doorways and after these doorways; there was a 3rd tunnel and a 3rd set of stone doorways. By now, even essentially the most nonchalant candidates are beginning to present indicators of hysteria. Turning spherical just a few bends within the tunnel, the sound of gushing water Zong… Zong… entered the ears of everybody. Lastly, they ended up on the financial institution of a deep river.

It’s really incomprehensible to discover a deep stream throughout the forbidden palace grounds. Because the gents beginning glancing at each other, a few of the short-tempered ones look as if they’re about to throw a tantrum.

The palace maid defined: “To succeed in the Inside Research, we should cross this Youlan River. Gents, please.” As she spoke, her petite determine moved forward and she or he stepped proper into the deep river. The riverbank is nicely illuminated by 4 flickering hearth torches and everybody can see her actions clearly. By stepping past the financial institution, she is going to absolutely fall into the river. Among the youths current cried out in alarm.

Amazingly, the hourglass determine of the palace maid merely sashayed throughout the river as if she is strolling on air. Astounded, everybody instantly deduced the presence of some iron tightrope for her to step on, as there are not any martial arts for levitation. Inspecting the trail taken by the palace maid, true sufficient; there’s a metal wire that runs horizontally above the river that leads from one financial institution to the opposite. This wire is extraordinarily skinny and is painted in black. Until it’s instantly mirrored by the torch flames, the wires are virtually invisible. The river itself is deep however even when somebody loses his footing and falls into it, there is no such thing as a hazard to his life. At most, he shall be haggard and embarrassed.

The individuals making up the group are both asking for marriage in individual or are bodyguards escorting their masters. Each individual has a superb basis in martial arts and through the use of on the metal wire, it’s straightforward to achieve the other financial institution. Duan Yu is just not nicely versed in martial arts however his is nicely practiced. With Ba Tianshi holding his hand, they crossed the river within the blink of an eye fixed.

*(Tall waves micro steps, the Qing-gong Ability of Carefree Sect. Every Sect has its personal model. Instance: Wudang Sect Qing-gong is Ladder-Cloud Approach. Used primarily for quick journey or leaping. www.youtube.com/watch?v=rf-Gl-Y8tx8 reveals DY mastering Browsing Nimble Steps, utilizing BeiMing Divine Ability to soak up Inside vitality and once more Nimble Steps to run away.)

As soon as everyone has crossed the river, the palace maid activated a hidden change on the stone wall. With a Shok! sound, the metal wire reeled into some hidden compartment. The gents are much more unsettled than earlier than, considering to themselves: This river is deep and broad, not possible to fly throughout. Might it’s that Xixia Nation is having some hidden motives? In any other case, why would there be this secret mechanism working over a secret river in a secret space of the Princess’s residence?

In his thoughts, everyone seems to be quietly reminding himself to not let his guard down and to maintain a low profile. Some even lamented: I’m a idiot; I ought to have introduced some weapons for private safety.

The palace maid remarked: “Gents, please come over right here.” Following her, they travelled by way of an unlimited bamboo forest earlier than arriving on the doorways of a mountain cave. After she knocked on the doorways, the cave doorways swung open. The palace woman welcomed: “Please!” as she took the lead in coming into.

Zhu Danchen covertly checked with Ba Tianshi: “What do you suppose?” Ba Tianshi can not make up his thoughts about getting Duan Yu to remain behind or proceed the journey and exposing Duan Yu to extra dangers. Nonetheless, they each knew that with out coming into the mountain cave, Duan Yu would naturally drop out from the number of Prince Consort. Whereas the 2 males are nonetheless hesitating, shoulder-to-shoulder, Duan Yu and Xiao Feng have stepped inside. Exchanging a agency handshake, the 2 of them adopted from behind.

Upon coming into the mountain cave and going by way of one other passage, their eyes have been greeted by a flood of lights. The top of the passage leads to an enormous corridor. This corridor is no less than thrice greater than Ningxiang Gallery the place that they had tea earlier. It seems to be a pure cave shaped throughout the mountain and with craftsmen engaged on it; the partitions of the cave are actually clean and polished. Nearly each wall is being lined by work and calligraphies. In a typical mountain cave, the air can be humid and the partitions can be moist. Nonetheless, on this specific cave, it’s fairly dry and even the work and calligraphies on the partitions are usually not turning moldy because of moisture. On one facet of the corridor, there’s a colossal examine desk made out of purple sandalwood. On the desk are the usual stationery objects and inscriptive tablets. There are additionally just a few bookshelves and a number of other items of stone tables and stools. The palace maid invited: “That is the Princess’s Inside Research. Gents, please take your time in admiring the work and calligraphies.”

Everybody shared the identical observations: The structure and décor of the Inside Research is considered one of a form. The furnishings is sparse and there’s hardly something to point that its proprietor is a feminine. Everyone seems to be baffled that this place really belongs to the Princess of Xixia. 9 out of the ten individuals current come from a martial arts background; they might barely learn and positively can not recognize the work and calligraphies. Probably the most they might do is stroll round and take a look at the work and calligraphies with an novice understanding.

Though their martial arts are very good, Xiao Feng and Xu Zhu knew nothing in regards to the arts. Sitting down on the ground subsequent to one another, they paid exact consideration to every thing that’s occurring within the corridor. Xiao Feng is 100 instances extra skilled and streetwise than Xu Zhu. With little interest in the calligraphies and work hanging on the wall, his expressionless face is definitely fixated on the actions of the palace maid in inexperienced robe. He knew that this palace maid is the important thing to the thriller and if there’s any ambush or secret scheme by Xixia Nation, this petite and shy palace maid would be the one to activate it. Proper now, Xiao Feng is sort of a leopard predator ready in the dead of night and surveying his prey. Though he’s fully immobile, his eyes, ears and thoughts are totally alert and targeted. Each muscle is tense and prepared. On the first signal of bother, he would immediately pounce on the palace maid and maintain her hostage. He won’t give her any alternative to create mischief.

Duan Yu, Zhu Danchen, Murong Fu, Gongzhi Qian and the others are wandering about and admiring the work and calligraphies. Deng Baichuan goes round checking every easel stand and ensuring there are not any secret pipes the place toxic fuel may be launched. The martial artistes of Central Plains acknowledge the toxicity of Xixia’s and precautions have to be taken. Pretending to admire the work and calligraphies, Ba Tianshi is definitely analyzing the partitions and corners, conserving an eye fixed out for potential traps or escape routes.

Solely Bao Butong is speaking garbage, freely criticizing the work and calligraphies. He would both complain in regards to the surroundings within the portray or the weak brush strokes within the calligraphy. Though Xixia is a rural nation on the excessive areas and the empire is taken into account younger, the royal palace assortment of uncommon work and calligraphies can not compete with lengthy established kingdoms of Nice Tune and Nice Liao. Nonetheless, being the royal palace assortment, there are nonetheless a number of noteworthy artifacts. Throughout the Princess’s Inside Research, there’s some calligraphy written in Bei Wei model by the individuals of Jing in addition to 5 generations of work from the Tang Dynasty. Beneath Bao Butong’s distinctive evaluation, all these relics are deemed nugatory. At that period, essentially the most gifted artists are Su Dong Po and Huang Shan Gu* however Bao Butong insisted that their works are mediocre. Even nice calligraphers like Zhong Wangzhang are being ridiculed by him.

*( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Su_Shi

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Huang_Tingjian )

Listening to his outspoken and outrageous disparagement of the creative works, the palace maid was fully mystified. Strolling over to him, she implored: “Mister Bao, are these calligraphy actually as dangerous as you talked about? The Princess has at all times sang praises about these works!”

Bao Butong defined: “Your Highness Princess primarily resides in rural Xixia and has by no means encountered the well-known students and skills of Central Plains. Sooner or later, she ought to go to the Central Plains and enhance her information. Little Sister, it is best to accompany your Princess and are available to the Central Plains for a tour. That method, you’ll not grow to be a frog within the nicely.”

Nodding her head in settlement, the palace maid smiled: “It’s not straightforward to make a visit to the Central Plains.”

Bao Butong rebutted: “Not proper, not proper! If Princess marries a hero from the Central Plains, would not she be transferring to the Central Plains?”

Going by way of a number of work on the partitions, Duan Yu out of the blue got here throughout a drawing of an historical feminine displaying a sword stance and was instantly shocked. “Yi!” he cried out. The sweetness within the image appears to be like precisely like Wang Yuyan; solely her apparel is completely different. To a sure extent, she resembles the Fairy Sister in WuLiang Stone Cave. Within the portray, the sweetness is holding a sword in her proper arm and a sword handbook in her left arm. Practising her swordplay beside a lake and a mountain, her posture is sleek and her options are distinguished. It was a peerless paintings. Duan Yu was immediately mesmerized and felt as if he’s again beside Wang Yuyan on this second and within the subsequent second, he’s again on the stone cave of WuLiang Mountain. After a protracted state of fantasy, he yelled: “Second Brother, come and take a look.”

Acknowledging his name, Xu Zhu strode over for a glance and in addition had an awesome shock. He thought: One other drawing of Miss Wang has appeared right here. In comparison with the drawing given to me by Grasp (Wu Yazi), the individual within the portray appears to be like precisely the identical. Solely her posture is completely different.

The extra Duan Yu appeared on the portray, the extra confused he turned. Unconsciously, he reached out together with his hand to the touch it and he might really feel some unevenness on the wall behind the portray. Gently lifting the portray and looking out beneath, he got here throughout some carvings on the wall that resembles the Ying-Yang Meridians. Upon nearer inspection, he found that the wall is engraved with numerous human silhouettes. Some have been in meditation place whereas some have been in a prancing place. The poses are peculiar and distinctive. The silhouettes are principally carved inside a circle and apart from the circle, there are some historical characters in addition to numbers.

With one look, Xu Zhu recognized them. These engravings are virtually just like these carved in Lingjiu Palace Stone Chamber. After scanning the silhouettes, he thought: Is that this the martial arts of Li Qiushui?

Out of the blue, he had an epiphany: Grasp (Feminine) Li is the Empress Dowager of Xixia, it isn’t unusual to search out these within the palace.

Reminiscing about these stone carvings left behind by the deceased Li Qiushui, Xu Zhu was saddened. He understands that these carvings are literally the top-tier expertise of the Carefree Sect and it’s meant for martial artistes with deep inside vitality. For these with insufficient vitality, in the event that they occur to review it, they’d be dragged right into a trance. The fortunate ones will simply faint from the expertise; the unfortunate ones might fire-deviate with severe penalties. Again then, the 4 sisters Plum Orchid Chrysanthemum and Bamboo have been injured after they attempt to examine the drawings of the Stone Chamber. Afraid that Duan Yu would get damage, he shortly warned: “Third Brother, it is best to ignore these engravings.” Duan Yu requested: “Why?” Xu Zhu whispered: “These are extremely superior martial arts. For those who follow them wrongly, there shall be big losses and 0 beneficial properties.”

Duan Yu initially had little interest in martial arts. Even when he does, proper now, he would moderately admire the portray of the girl that resembles Wang Yuyan than the martial arts carvings. Directly, he replaces the image and scrutinized this portray. He’s exceptionally conversant in the determine and facial options of Wang Yuyan; even the positive particulars can not escape his eyes and are totally memorized in his thoughts. Gazing on the portray once more, he handle to identify the distinction between the girl within the portray and Wang Yuyan. The girl within the portray is barely plumper and her eyebrows are formed with a heroic air, in contrast to Wang Yuyan’s fully female eyebrows. When it comes to age, the girl within the portray seems to be older than Wang Yuyan by just a few years. But when in comparison with Fairy Sister in Mount WuLiang’s stone cave, the resemblance is nearly precise.

Nonetheless blabbering nonsense, Bao Butong occurred to likelihood upon Duan Yu and Xu Zhu’s actions. Overhearing Xu Zhu’s feedback that the wall is engraved with extremely superior martial arts, he scolded in a snobbish voice: “What sort of extremely superior martial arts are you speaking about? Little Monk is making an attempt to deceive us once more.” Lifting the portray sideways, he examined the carvings. Tipping his toes, Duan Yu leaned to 1 facet and tilted his head sideways with a purpose to proceed admiring the sweetness within the portray.

The palace maid interrupted: “Mister Bao, these engravings are usually not meant for viewing. Your Highness Princess has indicated that vast losses and 0 beneficial properties will come to those that examine them however their inside vitality degree is insufficient.”

Bao Butong argued: “What if there’s enough inside vitality? Will probably be big beneficial properties and 0 losses, proper? My inside vitality degree is sufficiently enough.” He (BBT) is merely an unscrupulous debater who likes to distort details and win arguments. He doesn’t have any intention to steal the martial arts of others. Nonetheless, the second he laid his eyes on the encircled silhouettes in several poses, he immediately felt his personal physique present process an uncontrollable transformation. Unconsciously, his hand reached out to seize his ankle and he started mirroring the stances engraved on the wall.

Inside a minute, everyone standing near him has already seen his odd habits. Checking him out, they, too, found the engravings on the partitions. On the opposite facet of the corridor, somebody out of the blue shouted: “Yi! There are some carvings right here as nicely.” One other man exclaimed: “There are some right here as nicely.” Everybody began lifting up the work and calligraphies with a purpose to examine the human silhouettes engraved on the partitions. The second they began wanting on the carvings, they started to bounce round.

Xu Zhu was secretly horrified and shortly rushed to Xiao Feng, explaining: “Huge Brother, these wall engravings are usually not meant to be considered by odd individuals. In the event that they proceed finding out the martial arts, I’m afraid everybody will grow to be severely injured and a few of them might even flip mad. By then, it is going to be chaos.”

In his coronary heart, Xiao Feng was shaken. He roared: “Everybody! Cease wanting on the wall carvings. We’re in a harmful scenario. Shortly collect round me for a dialogue.”

After his loud command, some individuals turned again and gathered at his facet. Nonetheless, the engravings on the wall are too irresistible. So long as anybody has seen any of the silhouettes, he can be immediately drawn to it, feeling as if the awkward pose of the silhouette is ready to present a solution to all of the challenges he face when working towards martial arts. Although the answer is just not exact and the stance is unorthodox, he can not assist however focus all his attentions onto it. By now, Xiao Feng has realised lots of the individuals current are actually transferring in odd sequences past their will, as if they’re being possessed. He himself was flabbergasted at this growth.

Out of a sudden, with an ‘Ah!’ cry, somebody has fallen flat on his face after spinning round. One other man is making a hoarse sound together with his throat whereas clawing and scratching on the stone wall, as if he’s making an attempt to dig the silhouettes out from the wall. With a fast racking of his brains, Xiao Feng got here up with a plan. Utilizing his hand, he grabbed the backrest of a chair and with a ‘Kok!’ noise, he broke an element off the chair. Utilizing each palms, he rubbed the damaged fragment of the chair into dozens of small shards and flung these items out together with his palms. The air is full of sounds of ‘Chu! Chu! Chu!’ Throughout the corridor, for each sound that rang out, a lamp or a candle can be extinguished. When the sounds lastly cease, all of the illumination has been smothered and the Inside Research is now fully pitch black.

In the dead of night, heavy panting may be heard in every single place. Some would whisper: “What a detailed shave, what a detailed shave!” Some really loudly demanded: “Mild some candles, I have never taken a glance but!”

Xiao Feng’s voice rang out: “Gents, wherever you might be, please sit down and halt all of your actions. We don’t need to activate any hidden traps accidentally. The engravings on the wall are bewitching. Please don’t even contact them and find yourself injuring yourselves.” Earlier than he stated these phrases, there are some people who find themselves about to achieve out with their palms and really feel the wall carvings. Listening to his command, they recomposed themselves by drive.

Xiao Feng whispered: “Forgive my intrusion! Please shortly open the stone doorways and let everyone out.” It seems that earlier than he began extinguishing the lights, like an arrow being launched from a bow, he swiftly shot ahead and has restrained the palace maid by her proper wrist. Traumatized by this sudden intrusion, the palace maid used her left free hand to launch a backwards palm assault. Xiao Feng took this chance to safe her left hand as nicely. Petrified and embarrassed, the palace maid remained immobile.

Now that Xiao Feng has spoken, she begged: “… Please launch my palms.” Xiao Feng launched her wrists. Though it’s darkish, however by listening to her actions and reacting accordingly, Xiao Feng is just not afraid of her pulling any methods.

The palace woman reminded: “I instructed Mister Bao earlier than; these engravings ought to be ignored. For individuals who are usually not sturdy sufficient of their inside vitality cultivation, wanting on the engravings will trigger big losses and 0 beneficial properties. But, he insisted on exploring them!”

Seated on the ground, Bao Butong can really feel his head throbbing in nice ache and his physique extraordinarily tense for no cause. Furthermore, his chest space may be very uncomfortable and he felt like vomiting. Forcefully steadying his nerves, he scoffed: “For those who invite me to have a look, I’ll ignore them. For those who ask me to disregard them, I’ll take a look at them it doesn’t matter what you say.”

Xiao Feng contemplated: This palace maid did advise everybody to disregard the wall carvings. On this side, she meant no hurt. Nonetheless, what’s the agenda of the Princess of Xixia when she wished us to collect in her examine?

Abruptly, a pleasant and lightweight perfume was detected by his senses. Shocked, Xiao Feng rapidly used his hand to cowl up his nostril as he was reminded of the time when Xixia’s Elite Guild used and poisoned numerous beggars from Beggar’s Sect. He tried activating his inside vitality and was delighted to know that there is no such thing as a difficulty with it.

What he proceeded to listen to was a brand new palace maid saying in a candy and crisp voice: “Welcome your Highness Princess.” Listening to that the Princess has arrived, everybody was excited and ecstatic. Sadly, as a result of darkness, they can’t admire her options.

The younger woman (new palace maid) proclaimed in a coquettish voice: “The Princess has decreed: The partitions of the examine have been engraved with martial arts drawings. Outsiders are forbidden from viewing them. Work and different works have been held on the partitions with a purpose to conceal them. However, somebody ultimately found them. The Princess strictly prohibits anybody from lighting a torch or making a fireplace. In any other case, he’ll bear the extreme penalties. She hopes this info is made clear to everybody. Little doubt there shall be some inconveniences as a result of darkness and we search everybody’s understanding.”

Zha! Zha! The stone doorways have been opened. The younger woman added: “If there’s anybody who’s unwilling to stay right here, he might take his go away first and return again to Ningxiang Gallery for a relaxation and extra tea. Alongside the way in which, there shall be somebody guiding your path and nobody will get misplaced.”

Figuring out that the Princess is right here, nobody in his proper thoughts will need to take his go away. As well as, listening to the calm voice of the palace maid and unable to detect any malicious intentions in her phrases, coupled with the truth that the doorways are open and anybody can freely go away, the anxiousness degree of everybody decreased considerably. Naturally, there have been no departures.

A quick second later, the younger woman introduced: “Your Highness Princess expresses her gratitude to esteemed visitors who’ve travelled from far locations with a purpose to be right here as we speak. If there’s any hospitality missing, your understanding is appreciated. In a gesture of goodwill, Princess will hereby give away her beloved assortment of calligraphy and work. The works in her assortment are real items and she or he appears to be like ahead to gents’s gracious acceptance. Earlier than leaving the Courtroom, kindly retrieve any piece that your coronary heart needs.”

Listening to that the Princess is gifting away these items of paintings as items, the varied martial artistes and uneducated of us can not assist however really feel perplexed. For some savvy people, they acknowledge the worth of those work and knew that they’d fetch a substantial value again in Central Plains. These persons are secretly delighted with their windfall. The happiest of all of them is Duan Yu. He has determined to decide on the portray and admire the portray along with Wang Yuyan.

It doesn’t matter what he heard, it’s at all times the palace maid talking on behalf of the Princess. Exasperated, Prince Zongzan bellowed: “Your Highness Princess, since this location is just not superb to gentle a fireplace, we could adjourn elsewhere to proceed our assembly? It’s fully darkish right here. You can not see me and I can not see you.”

The palace maid replied: “It’s not troublesome in any respect if gents needs to see the Princess.”

Within the darkness, greater than 100 voices started crying out in unison: “We need to see the Princess! We need to see the Princess!” A number of individuals interrupted with their very own shoutings: “Please placed on some lights, we promise not to take a look at the wall carvings.” “Simply gentle some lamps across the Princess. That’s ok. We want to see the Princess and never the engravings.” “Sure! Sure! Princess, please present your self!” The rowdiness carried on for a while earlier than ultimately dying out.

The palace maid slowly state: “By inviting gents to Xixia, Your Highness Princess naturally needs to satisfy with esteemed visitors. Presently, Princess has three questions and respectfully asks every of you to take turns in answering. If the reply pleases Princess, he shall be invited for a gathering.”

The group instantly went wild. Some exclaimed: “Oh, it’s a verbal take a look at.” Some cried: “I’m solely good with spears and sabres; when you ask me some educational query, I’ll absolutely fail! Can I reply questions associated to martial arts?”

The palace maid invited: “The Princess has knowledgeable maid (me) what inquiries to ask. Which Mister is keen to start out by giving me your reply?”

Everybody rushed ahead and started shoving each other. They demanded: “Let me go first! I’m first! I’m able to reply!” With a chortle, the palace maid giggled: “Gents, there is no such thing as a must struggle amongst yourselves. The primary to reply could also be at an obstacle.” Everybody thought: That is smart. The later I reply, the extra I can be taught from different individuals’s solutions. I can discover out what are the dos and don’ts of interacting with Princess. Alongside the way in which, I can enhance my solutions.

With this thought, no one is preventing to be the primary candidate anymore.

Out of a sudden, a person declared: “When everyone seems to be dashing to be the primary, I intention to be the final; now that everybody is afraid of being the primary to be sacrificed, I’m keen to be the primary guinea pig. Gentleman (I) is called Bao Butong, married with a child. All I desired is a look at Princess’s truthful face. No different intentions.”

The palace maid acknowledged: “Mister Bao is simple and straightforward going. Your Highness Princess has three questions and seeks your recommendation. The primary query: In Mister Bao’s life, the place did you’ve gotten your greatest and happiest expertise?”

After a brief consideration, Bao Butong responded: “It’s in a pottery store. In my youth, I used to be an apprentice there. The proprietor is a bully and I used to be subjected to each day admonishments and in poor health remedy. Someday, I went berserk and smashed every thing within the store. No matter bowls or plates, teapots, vases or collectible figurines, Ping! Ping! Piang! Piang! all of them ended up as smithereens. That was the happiest second of my life. Palace Woman, is my reply acceptable?”

The palace maid replied: “Your Highness Princess will determine whether or not your reply is suitable or not. Maid (I) has no concept. The second query: The individual whom Mister Bao loves essentially the most, what’s his or her identify?” With none hesitation, Bao Butong answered: “Bao Bujing.”

The palace maid continued: “The third query: This person who Mister Bao talked about, what’s her look?”

Bao Butong articulated: “This individual is six years previous, with one eye greater than the opposite. Her nostrils are protruding upwards and her ears face the entrance. No matter my directions, she will definitely disobey. Asking her to cry, she is going to chortle; asking her to chortle, she is going to cry. And when she cries, it’s a four-hour crying session. That’s my valuable daughter Bao Bujing.”

The palace maid burst out in giggles whereas the complete crowd burst out laughing. The palace maid concluded: “Mister Bao, please take a break. Could I’ve the following gentleman please?”

Wanting to get out and reunite with Wang Yuyan, Duan Yu can’t be bothered if he will get to satisfy the Princess of not. Stepping ahead in the dead of night, he nonetheless bowed deeply and proclaimed: “Gentleman is Duan Yu of DaLi. I hope Your Highness Princess is doing nicely. I reside within the rural southern areas. At this time, I’m able to go to your honored nation and benefit from the fantastic sights. Many thanks to your glorious hospitality. I’m deeply appreciative of your variety gestures.”

The palace maid famous: “So it’s the son of DaLi Nation Lord Zhennan. Prince (DY) has given us an excessive amount of credit score. After a protracted journey (from DaLi), all we will provide is primary furnishings and restricted areas, which is inadequate to host our valued guests. We search your forgiveness and understanding.” (humble speak)

Duan Yu politely rejoined: “Sister, you might be too modest. If Princess is just not obtainable as we speak, I can at all times search an viewers at one other time. It’s a small matter.”

The palace maid questioned: “Since Prince is already right here, please reply the three questions too. The primary query: In Prince’s life, the place did you’ve gotten your greatest and happiest expertise?”

With out considering, Duan Yu responded: “In an deserted nicely among the many muddy particles.” The group couldn’t assist however laughed uncontrollably. Apart from Murong Fu, no one understood why Duan Yu spent the most effective moments of his life in an deserted nicely among the many muddy particles. Somebody even ridicule in a low voice: “Somebody who loves being in muddy particles; is he a tortoise?”

The palace maid lined her mouth to stifle a chuckle. She continued her questioning: “The individual whom Prince loves essentially the most, what’s his or her identify?”

Duan Yu was about to answer however he out of the blue felt two individuals tugging at his left and proper sleeves respectively. From his left ear, Ba Tianshi whispered: “Say it’s Lord Zhennan.” From his proper ear, Zhu Danchen whispered: “Say it’s Zhennan Princess Consort.” Upon listening to Duan Yu’s first reply, they felt it’s extremely inappropriate and are involved that his second reply will grow to be one other dangerous joke. Proper now, he’s proposing marriage to a Princess. If he says his biggest love is Wang Yuyan or Mu Wanqing or anyone else for that matter, would not it imply the Princess is his secondary love and goes to marry down and grow to be a concubine? Ba Tianshi reminded: “In fact your Father is your biggest love. That is the directive by the Imperial Courtroom.” Zhu Danchen reminded: “When it comes to love, there is no such thing as a stronger love between a mom and her baby. That’s the mindset of a discovered man.”

When the palace maid is asking Duan Yu in regards to the identify of the individual he loves essentially the most, he wished to reply Wang Yuyan’s identify. The reply is on the tip of his tongue however after being reminded by Ba Tianshi and Zhu Danchen, Duan Yu thought: He’s in any case, the son of DaLi Nation Lord Zhennan. Now that he’s in Xixia, his phrases and actions will replicate again on his nation. It’s positive if he desires to embarrass himself however he can not forsake the status of his personal nation.

Thus, he replied: “The individuals I like essentially the most are naturally my father and my mom.” When he mentions ‘Father’ and ‘Mom’, his chest naturally swells up with a sense of affection and respect for his dad and mom. He is aware of the love for his dad and mom and the love for Wang Yuyan are innately completely different. Nonetheless, he can not determine which love is bigger than the opposite. He’s positively telling the reality when he says his dad and mom are the individuals he loves essentially the most.

The palace maid questioned once more: “Your esteemed father and mom, how would you describe their appearances? Do they resemble Prince?”

Duan Yu responded: “My father has a squarish face, thick eyebrows and huge eyes. He has an awe-inspiring demeanor however really, his character is extraordinarily pleasant……” At this juncture, Duan Yu was secretly alarmed. He analyzed: My look solely resembles my mom and never my father. That is one thing I’ve by no means considered earlier than.

Listening to Duan Yu stopping mid sentence and never persevering with, the palace maid assumed that Duan Yu doesn’t want to share particulars of his mom’s look with a bunch of strangers. In spite of everything, his mom is a Princess Consort*. Due to this fact, she concluded: “Many thanks Prince. Prince, please take a break.”

(Princess Consort right here means she, as a commoner, is married to the royal brother of the King/Emperor of DaLi. She is just not the kid of the Emperor neither is she the assigned spouse to the son of the Emperor)

Noting the extraordinarily pleasant alternate between the palace maid and Duan Yu, as if they’re intimate buddies, Zongzan’s coronary heart is full of jealousy. He secretly thought: You’re a Prince; I’m a Prince too. TuBo nation is far stronger than your DaLi. Are you planning to win the competitors because of your beauty?

Unwilling to attend any longer, he stepped ahead and hollered: “TuBo Nation Prince Zongzan hereby requests an viewers with Princess.”

The palace maid acknowledged: “Prince’s wonderful arrival is a privilege bestowed on our nation. Our Princess has three questions to your consideration.”

With an easy-going air, Zongzan laughed: “I’ve paid consideration to the three questions of Princess. You needn’t ask the questions separately. Let me reply them in a single shot. In my life, my greatest and happiest expertise is changing into the Prince Consort, marrying the Princess and spending the evening with Princess as husband and spouse. In my life, the individual I like essentially the most is Princess Yinchuan. Her surname is Li and I’m unaware of her first identify. Sooner or later, once we grow to be husband and spouse, she would naturally inform me. Concerning the looks of Princess, she is definitely like a Fairy with uncommon and incomparable magnificence. Ha ha, are my solutions appropriate or not?”

Among the many crowd, nearly all of them shared the identical prepare of thought as Prince Zongzan and are planning to reply the three questions on this specific method. Listening to his speech, they’re secretly expressing regrets: I ought to have grabbed the primary alternative to make such a superb reply. Now, if I saved to the identical template, I could also be accused of copying his reply.

Xiao Feng waited and listened because the palace maid quizzed the gents one after the other. A few of them are attempting too laborious to please the Princess whereas others are exaggerating their talents and making false statements. The extra he heard, the extra uninterested he felt. If not for his curiosity for the ‘appropriate’ solutions, he would have left a very long time in the past.

Within the midst of his restlessness, he out of the blue heard Murong Fu’s voice ringing out: “Gentleman is Gusu Murong Fu. I’ve lengthy admired Princess’s fame. At this time, I got here specifically to pay my respects.”

The palace maid acknowledged: “So it’s Mister Gusu Murong. Though maid (I) is confined to the palace, I’ve heard of Mister’s (your) well-known identify.”

His coronary heart full of pleasure, Murong Fu thought: Since this palace maid is aware of my identify, the Princess ought to naturally find out about me too. Maybe the 2 of them even held a dialogue about me.

He shortly replied: “It’s nothing. My identify might be a waste of your listening to.” (humble speak)

The palace maid added: “Though we, Xixia, are on the rural borderlands, we’re too, conscious of the heroic title: North Qiao Feng; South Murong. It’s rumoured that North Qiao Feng, Nice Hero Qiao has modified his surname to Xiao, and is at present a high-ranking official in Nice Liao. I ponder if this hearsay is true?”

Murong Fu replied: “It’s true!” He already seen Xiao Feng when he’s on his strategy to Inexperienced Phoenix Courtroom, however didn’t select to show him.

The palace maid enquired: “Mister and Nice Hero Xiao share the identical namesake standing; the 2 of you have to be acquainted. I ponder how is his (XF) character like? When it comes to martial arts, in contrast with Mister, who has the higher hand?”

The minute he heard the questions, Murong Fu’s complexion turned fully crimson, even as much as his ears. At Shaolin Monastery, in his duel with Xiao Feng, he was restrained by him and was even ultimately thrashed closely onto the ground. In entrance of quite a few onlookers, it clearly exhibited his inferior expertise. Presently, in entrance of one other massive crowd, he can be additional ridiculed if he selected to not reveal this reality. However, he’s extraordinarily unwilling to confess his defeat by the hands of Xiao Feng. Unable to offer a correct account, he flared up: “These questions that Miss (you) is asking; are they the three questions from the Princess?”

The palace maid hurried redeemed: “No. I urge Mister’s pardon. For the previous few years, Maid (I) has heard of many heroic tales about Nice Hero Xiao and in consequence, I’m an admirer (fan) of him. I couldn’t assist however wished to ask extra questions regarding him.”

Murong Fu disclosed: “At this second, Khan Xiao is standing proper beside Miss. If Miss is , you may ask him instantly.” The second these phrases go away his mouth, the peace of the complete corridor was interrupted by loud commotions. The status of Xiao Feng is understood all around the world; throughout the martial arts neighborhood, there is no such thing as a one who is just not shaken by his identify.

The palace maid is seemingly as emotional as everybody else and her voice is beginning to quiver. She welcomed: “To suppose that Nice Hero Xiao has lowered his standing and paid a go to to our nation. We have been in the dead of night and our hospitality have to be severely missing. Nice Hero Xiao should accommodate us and overlook this lapse.”

Xiao Feng let loose a ‘Humph’ however didn’t give a reply.

From the tone of the palace maid, Murong Fu can simply inform that her respect for Xiao Feng is way more than her respect for himself. He was secretly alarmed and thought: Xiao Feng that fellow is a bachelor as nicely and he holds the official submit of Nice Liao Southern Khan. He even has a military at his disposal; as a commoner, how can I maintain a candle to that? His martial arts are unimaginable too; there is no such thing as a method I can surpass his credentials. What… What… What ought to I do?

The palace maid apologized: “Maid (I) will pose the inquiries to Mister Murong first. Nice Hero Xiao, please be affected person. Apologies. Apologies.” After making extra well mannered and apologetic statements, she requested Murong Fu: ” Query for Mister! In Mister’s life, the place did you’ve gotten your greatest and happiest expertise?”

Though Murong Fu has heard this query being repeated on fifty odd individuals earlier than him, now that he’s within the scorching seat, he out of the blue turned tongue-tied and couldn’t give you a solution. All his life, he has been slugging away, incessantly making an attempt to revive the Yan Empire. In actual fact, he by no means encountered a joyous event earlier than. From the attitude of an outsider, Murong Fu is younger and good-looking, highly-skilled in martial arts and his fame has unfold all around the world. He nonetheless instructions respect within the martial arts world and logically, he ought to be glad and pleased with his achievements. Nonetheless, in his coronary heart, he has by no means skilled true happiness. After a brief daze, he answered: “My true happiness lies sooner or later and never the previous.”

The palace maid assumed Murong Fu is utilizing the identical template as Prince Zongzan and the others, saying their true happiness will happen after changing into the Prince Consort and getting married to the Princess. Unknown to her, Murong Fu’s definition of happiness is changing into the Emperor of Yan and the proprietor of the affluent Yan Empire. Laughing as soon as, she questioned once more: “The individual whom Mister loves essentially the most, what’s his or her identify?”

Momentarily shocked and after a short contemplation, Murong Fu let loose a sigh and replied: “There may be no one that I like essentially the most.”

The palace maid concluded: “Since that is the case, we will skip the third query.”

Murong Fu added: “I hope to satisfy the Princess and thereby, give a reply to Sister’s second and third query.”

The palace maid remarked: “Mister Murong, please take a break. Nice Hero Xiao, since you’ve gotten made your method right here to our nation, we have now to observe the identical process. Maid (I) shall be asking you the three questions as nicely. If there’s any offense, we ask to your forgiveness and understanding. Maid hereby provides her thanks upfront.” She proceeded to ask and repeat the primary query however there was no response in any respect.

Xu Zhu interrupted: “My Huge Brother has already left. Miss, please excuse him.” The palace maid was taken again: “Nice Hero Xiao has left?” Xu Zhu acknowledged: “Sure, he had.”

When Xiao Feng witness the Princess of Xixia instructing her palace maid to quiz the gents separately, he deduced some particular that means behind the three questions. However, the questions are innocent. He then went on to ask himself the identical three questions and the solutions he would offer. Reminiscing about Ah Zhu, he felt some ache at his chest and was tremendously grieved. Extraordinarily unwilling to reveal his private feelings to a bunch of strangers, he circled and left the stone corridor. Because the stone doorways are opened and his footsteps are exceptionally gentle, only some people sensed his departure.

The palace maid inquired: “The place did Nice Hero Xiao retreat to? Is he upset with our questioning?”

Xu Zhu defined: “My Huge Brother is just not a petty individual and would definitely not take any offence. Hmm, he have to be longing for some wine and has left with a purpose to quench his cravings.”

The palace maid giggled: “It have to be so. Nice Hero Xiao is famed for his consuming habits and his means to carry liquor is second to none. The Inside Research doesn’t retailer any wine and we’re unable to host this honoured visitor appropriately. We’re really incompetent hosts. Mister (XZ), the following time you see Nice Hero Xiao, please convey the deepest apologies from our nation’s Princess.” This singular palace maid is especially eloquent, well mannered and delicate in her speech. In comparison with the shy palace maid from the Gallery, she is 100 instances extra articulate.

Xu Zhu affirmed: “Once I see Huge Brother, I’ll go the message.”

The palace maid probed: “How do I handle Mister?”

Xu Zhu stammered: “My… My… My Buddhist identify is Xu Zhu Zi. I… got here… got here… that… not right here for the wedding, I’m merely accompanying my Third Brother.”

The palace maid questioned: “In Mister’s life, the place did you’ve gotten your greatest and happiest expertise?”

Xu Zhu let loose a comfortable sigh and replied: “In a darkish ice chamber.”

He abruptly heard a feminine voice exclaiming ‘Ah!’ in a comfortable voice. Following that was one other noise ‘Qiang Lang!’ It seems that someplace within the darkness, a porcelain cup has been dropped onto the ground and was shattered into items.

The palace maid continued her questioning: “The individual whom Mister loves essentially the most, what’s he or her identify?”

Xu Zhu lamented: “Ai! I… I have no idea the identify of that girl.”

The group burst out into laughter, considering that this man is a idiot. With out figuring out the identify of that specific girl, how might she be the individual he loves essentially the most?

The palace maid defended: “It’s not unusual to like somebody with out figuring out the id. Again then, the filial son Dong Yong occurred to satisfy a Heavenly Fairy on Earth. With out figuring out her identify or background, he fell in love together with her. Mister Xu Zhu, this girl should have been a magnificence the ultimate, am I proper?”

Xu Zhu answered: “I’ve by no means laid my eyes on her earlier than.”

In a break up second, the stone corridor is blanketed with thunderous laughter. Everybody was laughing their guts out and felt that this story is really unprecedented. Some even thought that Xu Zhu is deliberately telling a joke.

Amidst all of the laughter, Xu Zhu out of the blue heard a feminine whispering to him: “You… Are you Meng-Lang? (Dream mate/groom/hubby)”

Xu Zhu was shocked out of his wits. In a trembling voice, he requested: “You… You… Are you Meng-Gu? (Dream girl/aunt/bride) I missed you a lot.”

Unconsciously, he took just a few steps ahead, inhaling a breath of perfume. A pair of heat, light and clean palms is now holding onto his palms. A well-known voice is now tenderly whispering apart from his ear: “Meng-Lang, I used to be looking for you however I failed. Lastly, I managed to get Imperial Father to difficulty a decree and hopefully, you’re going to get invited.”

Xu Zhu was much more astonished than earlier than. He stammered: “You… So you might be…”

The younger girl urged: “Let’s speak inside. Meng-Lang, each day and each evening, all I pray for is that this precise second…” Talking in a hushed voice and holding his hand, she quietly led him previous a curtain. Stepping onto a layer of thick carpet, the 2 of them entered the internal chamber.

Throughout the stone corridor, the group remains to be laughing continuous.

As normal, the palace maid repeated the three inquiries to everyone. When the listing has been exhausted, she introduced: “Gents, please adjourn to the earlier Ningxiang Gallery for a relaxation and extra tea. The wall-mounted artworks shall be ready as items for everybody. If Your Highness Princess needs to satisfy up with any considered one of you, our attendant will summon you accordingly.”

Proper now, there are a lot of annoyed males who began rioting: “We need to see the Princess!” “We need to see her now!” “Shoving us from one place to a different, are you making fools out of us?”

The palace maid reasoned: “It’s higher for everybody to take a break outdoors, why trouble risking the wrath of the Princess?”

The final sentence labored like magic. Everyone got here to Lingzhou for the sake of changing into the Prince Consort. By disobeying the Princess, she wouldn’t grant an viewers. With out seeing her, the possibilities of changing into the Prince Consort is zero. The group immediately turned silent and one after the other, they left the stone corridor. Exterior, the return path is nicely lighted by brilliant torches. By retracing their steps, the group ended up again in Ningxiang Gallery the place that they had tea just a few hours in the past.

Reunited with Wang Yuyan, Duan Yu up to date her in regards to the Princess’s three questions. When Wang Yuyan heard him saying that his greatest and happiest expertise is in an deserted nicely among the many muddy particles, she can not assist however escape into uncontrollable giggles. Each her cheeks turning crimson, she cooed: “I really feel the identical too.”

Having tea and fascinating in idle chatter, the gents ultimately began discussing and evaluating their solutions to the three questions. They questioned who has the reply that greatest satisfies the Princess. A short time later, palace eunuchs appeared, holding bundles of work and calligraphies of their arms, inviting these current to choose one. These males are deep in thought, questioning if the Princess would grant them an viewers or not. Clearly, they can’t be bothered with the paintings. As nobody is competing with him, Duan Yu simply retrieved the portray .

Admiring the portray with Wang Yuyan at his facet, Wang Yuyan sighed: “The individual within the portray resembles my mom greater than myself.” Recalling the extended separation between she and her mom, she might really feel some longing in her coronary heart.

Remembering that Xu Zhu has the same portray as nicely, Duan Yu wished to borrow his copy for a comparability. Nonetheless, regardless of all his efforts in looking, Xu Zhu appears to have disappeared from the Gallery. He even referred to as out: “Second Brother! Second Brother!” However there was no response. Duan Yu thought: Each Huge Brother and Second Brother are gone! Is there some hidden hazard?

Simply as he began worrying, unexpectedly, a palace maid accosted him and knowledgeable: “Mister Xu Zhu has a letter for Prince Duan.” As she spoke, with two palms, she offered a folded letter made out of gold foil.

Accepting the letter, Duan Yu might odor a light-weight perfume coming from it. He opened it and on the letter are the next phrases: I’m all good. I’ve by no means been higher. I’m completely happy past phrases. I’m so sorry you made a wasted journey and I’ve failed Uncle Duan too. However I’ve no selection. Addressed to Third Brother.

On the backside, it was signed with two phrases: Second Brother

Duan Yu is conscious that his Monk Second Brother obtained little training and is horrible at expressing himself by way of written letters. Nonetheless, this letter is completely incomprehensible. Not figuring out what to do subsequent, a dazed Duan Yu held the letter in his hand as he racked his brains.

From afar, Prince Zongzan noticed the palace maid handing a letter to Duan Yu and instantly assumed the Princess is granting him an viewers. Crammed with jealousy, he cursed to himself: Nice, true sufficient, you gained a bonus due to your beauty. Nonetheless, I’m not keen to surrender that simply.

He hollered: “I can’t tolerate you!” With a swift pounce, he leapt in direction of Duan Yu. Utilizing his left hand, he snatched on the letter and utilizing his proper fist, he threw a punch at Duan Yu’s chest.

A preoccupied Duan Yu remains to be making an attempt to decipher the that means behind Xu Zhu’s letter and when Prince Zongzan attacked him, he didn’t take into consideration avoiding the assault. Moreover, based mostly on Zongzan’s martial arts, his punch is as quick as lightning and Duan Yu couldn’t keep away from it even when he wished to. ‘PONG!’ The blow landed squarely on his chest. Inside Duan Yu’s physique, his plentiful inside vitality instantaneously mirrored the blow and with one other ‘PONG!’ sound, adopted by ‘Pi Pai! Qiang Lang! Ai Yo!’ Prince Zongzan flew a number of steps away and crashed onto a tea desk. The teapot and tea cup on the desk have been smashed to bits.

In ache, Zongzan can not assist however cry out ‘Ai Yo!’ Earlier than he obtained on his toes, he examined the letter and browse it out loud: “I’m all good. I’ve by no means been higher. I’m completely happy past phrases.”

It’s evident to everybody that Zongzan was rebounded by Duan Yu’s inside vitality and simply suffered a heavy fall. But, he exclaimed: I’m all good. I’ve by no means been higher. I’m completely happy past phrases.

Whereas everyone seems to be scratching their heads in bewilderment, Wang Yuyan hurried to Duan Yu’s facet and requested: “Did he injure you?” Duan Yu guffawed: “Nothing value mentioning. Second Brother has written a be aware to me. That Prince should have gotten the mistaken impression, considering that the Princess is granting me an viewers.”

Witnessing their very own grasp being knocked over, a few of the TuBo warriors ran over to help him whereas the others approached Duan Yu in a fierce and intimidating method, as if they’re difficult him to a struggle.

Duan Yu signaled: “This place is ill-suited for us and I do not see why we should always keep any longer. Let’s take our go away.” Ba Tianshi rapidly dissuaded: “Since Prince is right here, there is no such thing as a urgency to depart.” Zhu Danchen added: “That is the Inside Palace of Xixia’s Royal Palace, I doubt the TuBo fellows have the center to make use of violence. As well as, the Princess might summon you quickly. If we go away now, would not that be discourteous?” The 2 males continued to take turns to steer Duan Yu from leaving.

True sufficient, some warriors from the Elite Guild appeared and demanded the TuBo warriors to behave themselves. Prince Zongzan has gotten again on his toes. Recognising that the letter is just not the Princess granting an viewers to Duan Yu, the anger in his coronary heart subsided.

In the midst of the commotion, Mu Wanqing may be seen beckoning at Duan Yu. In her left hand, she is waving a chunk of paper. Duan Yu nodded his head and approached her, taking the paper from her palms.

Seeing one other letter in Duan Yu’s palms and noticing the expression of uncertainty on his face as he learn the letter, Zongzan thought: This letter have to be from the Princess, summoning him for a gathering

He roared in a loud voice: “The primary time, you managed deceive me, the second time, you will not be so fortunate!” His each legs propelling his physique, he pounced on Duan Yu once more, grabbing the letter with one hand.

Studying from his mistake, he dared not punch Duan Yu on the chest anymore. After acquiring the letter, he lifted his proper foot and kicked Duan Yu’s hip. On the pelvis space is the ‘Danzhong’ level, the seed and reservoir for all inside vitality. When Zongzan kicked that very same space, Duan Yu’s inside vitality immediately reacted with none want for activation. The repel was swift and impactful. With a ‘Hu!’ sound, adopted by one other ‘Pi Pai! Qiang Lang! Ai Yo!’, Prince Zongzan once more soared by way of the air and flew over the heads of some dozen males. Crashing into a number of tea tables, he lastly landed on his again.

The Prince is stocky and his flesh is thick. Furthermore, Duan Yu didn’t deliberately activate his inside vitality to hurt him. Though Zongzan was embarrassed and haggard wanting, he didn’t endure any inside accidents. Nonetheless on the ground, he lifted the freshly snatched letter and browse it out loud: “A formidable foe is planning to homicide my father, who additionally occurs to be your father. Save him shortly.”

With these phrases, the group turned much more confused. Why did Prince Zongzan say: my father, who additionally occurs to be your father?

Solely Duan Yu, Ba Tianshi, Zhu Danchen and the others knew what the message meant. Because the letter is written by Mu Wanqing, the 2 fathers she talked about is clearly Duan Zhengchun. Gathering at her facet, they interrogated her in regards to the particulars.

Mu Wanqing defined: “Shortly after you (all) left, the 2 sisters Plum Sword and Orchid Sword entered the palace, saying they’ve an pressing report for Mister Xu Zhu. Since Xu Zhu Zi has not proven himself, they handed the message to me. Their community of allies has obtained phrase that a number of formidable foes have laid an ambush with a purpose to entrap Father. The traps have been laid at Shunan space, the place Father should undergo with a purpose to return to DaLi. Their Lingjiu Palace has already dispatched two factions, Xuantian and Zhutian, to chase after Father and warn him. On the similar time, they despatched phrase to us.”

Duan Yu anxiously requested: “Plum Sword and Orchid Sword, the place are the 2 sisters? Why did not I see them?” Mu Wanqing remarked: “You solely have eyes for Miss Wang; we’re all invisible to you. The 2 sisters Plum Sword and Orchid Sword really wished to talk to you instantly however irrespective of how laborious they waved at you, there was no response. I do not know when you actually did not see them or are you deliberately ignoring them.”

His face turning crimson, Duan Yu insisted: “I… I actually did not see them.”

Mu Wanqing coldly state: “They’re in a rush to search out Second Brother Xu Zhu and can’t afford to attend for you. I attempted to sign you too however you ignored me. I’ve no selection however to write down that letter and go it to you.”

Feeling apologetic, Duan Yu acknowledged the reality in her phrases. Not too long ago, all his undivided consideration has been centered on Wang Yuyan. All he noticed was her smiles and her frowns; all he heard was her phrases and her laughter. Even when the sky fell down, it doesn’t matter. It’s pure for him to overlook Mu Wanqing’s summons. If not for Prince Zongzan’s pouncing on him and delivering a fierce punch, he wouldn’t have raised his head and spot Mu Wanqing’s beckoning. To Ba Tianshi and Zhu Danchen, he instructed directly: “Let’s journey by way of the evening and chase after Father.” The 2 males acknowledged: “Sure, Prince!”

The identical ideas went by way of their minds: Since Lord Zhennan is at risk, every thing else has to take second precedence. Whether or not Duan Yu is ready to grow to be the Prince Consort of Xixia or not is not necessary. They departed with out losing one other minute.

Apart from Ba Tianshi, Duan Yu and the others head again to the inn and reunite with Zhong Ling. Packing their baggage, they set off with none delay. Ba Tianshi paid a go to to Xixia’s Ministry of Rites and bid farewell to the Minister personally. He spun a narrative, saying Lord Zhennan has fallen in poor health whereas travelling. Due to this fact, his son has to rush to him and help in nursing him. He’s unable to spare the time to formally bid farewell to the Emperor and expresses his regrets. Because the father is sick, it’s the responsibility of the son to maintain him; nobody can disapprove of this noble gesture.

The Minister of Rites is stuffed with reward and well mannered speak, saying Duan Yu’s filial piety is as excessive as Heaven and His Lordship Duan will make a speedy restoration. Finishing his farewell discover, Ba Tianshi swiftly exited Lingzhou Metropolis’s southern gate. Activating his , he went in pursuit of Duan Yu and firm. By the point he caught as much as them, they’re already ten miles away from Lingzhou.