Wuxia: Become the 100-Victory Sword King at the Beginning

Although young, Shi Xiong was not to be outdone. Wielding the White Rainbow Sword, he unleashed the "Thirteen Deadly Sword Techniques" personally taught by Shi Feiyang, charging left and right through the enemy ranks. Wherever his sword struck, the Western Region cultists fell to the ground, some with half their heads severed, others with their throats pierced. "Brothers, sisters, uncles, and elders, don't be afraid, I'm coming!" The boy's clear voice revealed a ferocity beyond his years.

In the snowstorm of Black Wolf City, the stench of blood mixed with shards of ice condensed into a crimson mist in mid-air.

Just as Shi Feiyang shattered the weapons of the Three Protectors of the Western Regions with the ultimate move of the Hundred Victories Blade Technique, "Slaying the Mortal World," he suddenly felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end—in the shadows to his side, Abdul, the "Blood Hand Asura" of the Holy Sect, was stealthily treading through the snow, his poisoned short blade gleaming with a ghostly blue light, aiming straight for his left waist vital point.

This assassin was a master of assassination, even his breathing was extremely light, and the sound of his short blade cutting through the air was more subtle than falling snow.

Shi Feiyang, however, seemed to have eyes in the back of his head. A cold smile appeared on his lips, and the internal energy of Mingyu Gong surged into his left hand like a tide.

In an instant, his figure spun strangely, and the air waves brought up by his clothes swirled into ice flowers on the ground. His left hand drew out in an unconventional arc, which was the "Golden Dragon Coiling Claw" move from the "Hundred Victories Blade Technique" that combines offense and defense!
The golden palm shadow wrapped around the short blade like a living thing. Abdul felt a sticky, glue-like force coming from it, as if a thousand-pound chain was binding the weapon. "Impossible!" His eyes were bloodshot. He tried his best to draw the knife, but he saw a cold glint in Shi Feiyang's eyes, and the energy that suddenly burst out from his palm surged like a raging torrent.

Abdul screamed and flew backward, crashing into a basalt pillar three zhang away. With a loud "boom," the pillar collapsed, burying him in a hail of rubble, leaving only a trail of blood on the snow.

"Who else wants to fight?" Shi Feiyang roared to the sky, the golden blade light rising around him evaporating all the falling snowflakes. His Mingyu Skill had reached the peak of the twelfth level, and each palm strike brought a sharp whistling sound that tore through the air. The blade energy condensed at the edge of his palm was three feet long, and wherever it passed, the weapons of the Western Region experts shattered.

Hoga, the Right Envoy of the Holy Church, charged forward wielding a jewel-encrusted scimitar, chanting, "Holy fire burns the heavens, destroying your evil deeds!" The crimson light from the scimitar ignited into a raging fire, instantly engulfing Shi Feiyang.

Shi Feiyang neither dodged nor evaded, his palms spinning like wheels as he unleashed the "Cloud-Piercing Slash" from the "Hundred Victories Blade Technique".

The golden palm strike collided with the flames, unleashing a deafening roar. Hoga's scimitar shattered into pieces, and he was thrown back by the shockwave, his back slamming heavily against the city wall. The crisp sound of breaking ribs mixed with the spray of blood mist, blooming into dazzling red plum blossoms on the snow.

"Stone bandits, prepare to die!" Guliya, one of the four great Dharma Kings of the Holy Church, swung her nine-section chain mace, the barbs on it gleaming with a chilling aura. Her chain mace swung with impenetrable force, the force of which plowed three deep furrows into the ground.

Shi Feiyang moved like a ghost among the hammer shadows, then suddenly roared, "You vixen, instead of staying home to serve your husband and raise your children, you come out to wreak havoc on the martial world! You deserve to die!" He unleashed the ultimate move of the Hundred Victories Blade Technique, "Shattering Star Style!"
In an instant, five golden palm shadows struck the chain hammer with pinpoint accuracy, like shooting stars. Guliya felt her hands go numb as the nine-section chain hammer shattered into nine pieces. The flying chain segments shot towards her companions like hidden weapons, causing blood to splatter everywhere.

Shi Xiong, watching from the sidelines, was filled with excitement. He brandished his white rainbow sword and shouted, "Young Master, you're amazing!"

Although his Thirteen Deadly Swords technique was still immature, it was cunning and ruthless, specializing in attacking the lower body. Three Western Region cultists had already had their Achilles tendons severed by him, rolling and howling in agony on the snow. Taking advantage of the opportunity, Ellie unleashed the Hengshan School's "Thirteen Forms of Cloud and Mist," the sword shadows and Shi Feiyang's palm strikes complementing each other. Wherever the sword energy reached, the accumulated snow turned into sharp ice blades, cutting the enemy's body with wounds.

Amidst the enemy ranks, Shi Feiyang fought with increasing ferocity, his "Hundred Victories Saber Technique" displaying unpredictable variations across its nine moves and thirty-six forms. Sometimes, his strikes were like a giant axe, cleaving enemies and their weapons in two; other times, they were like a serpent's tongue, leaving bloodstains on the enemy's throats with every flash of his palm.

The followers of the Western Regions Holy Sect stared at the golden figure weaving through the blood mist, their hearts filled with boundless fear. Some knelt down and begged for mercy, while others turned and fled, but they were all caught up by Shi Feiyang's palm strikes and turned into corpses on the snow.

Upon seeing this, Qi Yin's nine-section whip suddenly grew to three zhang in length, the barbs at the tip gleaming with a ghostly blue poisonous light: "Shi Feiyang, you always ruin my plans. Today, it's either you or me who dies!"

He unleashed the ultimate technique of the Western Regions Holy Sect, the "Sacred Fire Token Divine Skill," and flames rained down like meteorites, engulfing Shi Feiyang within them.

"Heh heh, is that all you've got? Look at you, all you do is steal and cheat!" Shi Feiyang sneered at Qi Yin, his true energy surging, and his golden palm light transformed into nine streaks, actually unleashing the ultimate killing move of the "Hundred Victories Blade Technique," "Heaven and Earth Live Together"!
Where the palm wind passed, the flames were extinguished, and the shockwave from the impact caused Qi Yin to cough up blood.

His nine-section whip was shattered into dust, and he flew backward like a kite with a broken string, crashing into half of the city wall.

As Ellie gazed at Shi Feiyang, who was fighting a bloody battle, hope rekindled in her previously dim eyes.

She wielded the Hengshan Sword Technique, combining it once more with Lin Wanqing's Longevity Sword Technique. The sword energy transformed into a flurry of snowflakes, mingling with Shi Feiyang's golden palm light. The followers of the Western Regions Holy Sect, witnessing this battle resembling a clash between gods and demons, were filled with boundless fear. Some knelt and begged for mercy, while others turned and fled. Shi Feiyang stood amidst the mountain of corpses and sea of ​​blood, his robes fluttering in the wind.

He gazed at the mess on the ground, his eyes as cold as ice: "Anyone who dares to invade my territory, no matter how far away, shall be punished!"

Before the words were finished, a sudden downpour of snowflakes began, as if to wash away the bloodstains on the ground.

Shi Xiong then skipped over to his side, his face smeared with blood but he smiled brightly: "Young Master, we've chased away the bad guys again!"

The snowstorm in Wulang City suddenly stopped, as if everyone was holding their breath in anticipation of this thrilling battle.

The soldiers of the Naiman tribe raised their scimitars high, their cheers like rolling spring thunder, shaking down the icicles that had formed on the city walls.

Ellie's fiery red battle robe was stained with blood, yet it couldn't conceal the starlight in her eyes. She was the first to drop her sword and, like a swallow returning to its nest, threw herself into Shi Feiyang's arms. Her trembling fingertips traced his bloodied brow bone: "My husband, if you are even slightly injured, my eyes will never again see the splendor of this world. The court has treated you so cruelly, why do you still stay in Bozhou to quell the rebellion? Don't you feel wronged?"

Lin Wanqing's plain white Taoist robe was torn by the sword energy, and the jade hairpin in her hair was nowhere to be found, yet she was still as elegant and charming as ever.

She gently loosened her cloak and wrapped it around Shi Feiyang's thin body, her voice carrying three parts reproach and seven parts heartache: "Husband, you always work so hard, you've almost consumed all of Wudang's 'Nine-Turn Life-Extending Pills'."

As she spoke, her fingertips quietly probed his wrist for his pulse, afraid of missing even the slightest sign of injury.

Gong Simeng's divine water whip was still dripping blood, but she paid no heed. She tiptoed and wrapped her arms around Shi Feiyang's neck, her warm breath brushing against his ear: "Husband, when you were fighting that demon just now, my heart felt like it was being gnawed at by the ice silkworms of Tianshan, I couldn't find a moment's peace." She suddenly bit her lower lip, her eyes glistening with tears, "Next time... next time I must stand shoulder to shoulder with you, even if we die together."

Bai Zhi gripped the deformed, barbed silver staff, her usually cheerful demeanor now streaked with tears. She carefully touched Shi Feiyang's bloodstained hand, as if cradling fragile glass: "Husband, the calluses on your palms have grown even thicker..."

Before he could finish speaking, he suddenly turned around and pulled out a paper package from his pocket. "Knowing that you love osmanthus cake from Jiangnan, I specially saved half a piece..."

Liu Guihua's serpent whip was still wrapped around the enemy's stray hairs, but she couldn't wait to pounce over and wrap her arms around Shi Feiyang's waist.

She pressed her cheek against his back, her voice muffled: "My husband, I was so afraid I would never see you again... Wherever you go in the future, you must take me with you, even if it means going through fire and water. My whip will clear away all obstacles for you."

Shi Feiyang was tightly surrounded by five soft bodies, and his nose was filled with different fragrances—the scent of roses from Elizabeth, the scent of sandalwood from Lin Wanqing, the scent of orchids from Gong Simeng, the scent of osmanthus from Bai Zhi, and the scent of jasmine from Liu Guihua.

He could feel their rapid heartbeats, as if they were trying to meld him into his very bones.

“I’m sorry to have worried you. But no matter how the court treats me, I will still help the soldiers quell the rebellion, because I am protecting the common people, not just the interests of the court.” He said softly, but was met with five coquettish protests.

“Who’s worried about you?” Elizabeth looked up, her beauty mark at the corner of her eye trembling with tears. “I’m just afraid that if you die, no one in this world will be worthy of me.” Lin Wanqing silently took out some wound medicine from her sleeve and carefully applied it to the wound on his arm, her fingertips trembling slightly. “If you ever act so recklessly again, I will… I will never talk to you again.” But her trembling voice had already betrayed her.

Gong Simeng suddenly tiptoed and lightly pecked Shi Feiyang's lips, her blush instantly spreading to the tips of his ears: "This is your punishment... and also your reward." Bai Zhi shyly turned her head away, but secretly stuffed the osmanthus cake into his hand. Liu Guihua was even more direct, pulling his hand and pressing it to her chest: "Listen, how fast it's beating, it's almost jumping out of its throat."

The soldiers of the Naiman tribe smiled knowingly at this scene. The cold wind was still biting, but a warmth like a spring tide surged within Wulang City, hotter than any hearth fire and more intoxicating than any fine wine.

The twilight of Wulang City was tinged with crimson by cheers. Shi Feiyang led his five wives down the city wall, his black cloak sweeping over the mottled bloodstains, yet unable to conceal the tenderness that surrounded him.

Ellie gazed at the exquisitely beautiful face of Bai Zhi's infant son in her arms. The child was giggling and tugging at his father's clothes, his dark, bright eyes just like Bai Zhi's when they first met. She subconsciously touched her flat stomach, her fingertips brushing against the medicine pouch hidden under the brocade—it was a secret formula for conceiving a child that she had asked someone to find for her in Miao territory. She carried it with her every day, its fragrance mixed with the scent of roses, but now it made her heart ache.

In the inner courtyard of the royal palace, Lin Wanqing was teaching the children the starting stance of Wudang swordplay. The ice flowers drawn by the sword tip landed on the tiger-head hat of Gong Simeng's youngest son.

The child babbled and reached out to grab the cold star formed by the sword energy. Gong Simeng hurriedly protected him and scolded, "Be careful not to freeze my little darling." She looked up at Shi Feiyang, who was leaning against the corridor pillar, her eyes full of tenderness: "Look, our child is even more clever than you were back then. He will definitely master the Mingyu Skill in the future."

Liu Guihua leaned against the carved window frame, the serpent whip unconsciously wrapped around her fingertips, watching Shi Feiyang toss Lin Wanqing's child into the air and catch him steadily. The child's clear laughter made her eyes burn.

She recalled kneeling in the Buddhist hall last night, the candlelight casting long shadows, the murmured scriptures transforming into prayers for Shi Feiyang. A bitter taste rose in her throat, and as she turned her head away, she met Ellie's equally sorrowful gaze.

"Sister Yili..." Liu Guihua called softly, her voice trembling with a sense of shared suffering.

Elizabeth turned her face away, her fiery red skirt sweeping across the blue bricks, tears blurring her cheeks with vibrant color. "Look how lively they are, it makes us seem superfluous." She suddenly gripped Liu Guihua's hand tightly. "Tell me... is there something wrong with us? Why can't we have children?" These words struck Liu Guihua's heart like a hammer blow. She threw herself into Elizabeth's arms, tears soaking the other's shoulder. "I prayed fervently every day, I was willing to do anything for him..."

Before he could finish speaking, Shi Feiyang's footsteps suddenly rang out. He took in the two girls' frantic tears, reached out and pulled them into his arms, wiping away their tears with his fingertips: "Two silly girls, in my heart, you are different from everyone else."

Ellie looked up into his deep eyes, then suddenly choked up, "But we can't even continue your bloodline..."

Shi Feiyang sealed her lips with a kiss, gentle yet domineering, dispelling all her unease: "Having you all by my side is the most precious treasure in this world." He turned to Liu Guihua, taking her cold hand and pressing it against his heart: "Isn't this affection heavier than any offspring?"

Gong Simeng, holding a child, was leaning against the door with a smile in her eyes: "You guys are talking nonsense."

She placed the child in Shi Feiyang's arms, saying, "Come on, let Daddy hold our little general too."

Suddenly, the child's chubby little hand reached out to Elizabeth, babbling "Auntie." Elizabeth froze, her eyes welling up with tears again.

Taking advantage of the moment, Shi Feiyang embraced all five wives. The children's laughter and the women's scolding voices wove a gentle net in the twilight, turning all the bitterness into tenderness.

After spending half a month with the five ladies and children in the Naiman tribe, and without receiving any news from "Flying Eagle Detective" Xie Wen, Shi Feiyang took Shi Xiong and used his unparalleled lightness skill of "Leaving No Trace for a Thousand Miles" to fly back to Jiangnan and back to Suzhou Prefecture.

As the Spring Festival approaches, Suzhou's old city is exceptionally lively. Red lanterns hang in every street and alley, and crowds throng the shops, displaying a dazzling array of New Year's goods. Children, dressed in new clothes, play and frolic among the crowds, their laughter echoing through the air.

Every household is busy with spring cleaning and putting up Spring Festival couplets, preparing to welcome the New Year.

The air was filled with a faint smell of gunpowder and the aroma of food, making people unconsciously immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere.

In late spring, the city of Suzhou is shrouded in a thin veil of pale gold, and the fragrance of Biluochun tea wafts through the bluestone streets and alleys.

Shi Feiyang and Shi Xiong strolled slowly in the twilight, watching the figures moving among the teahouses and taverns, and listening to the melodious Suzhou folk songs.

Shi Feiyang stood with his hands behind his back, his dark robes billowing in the evening breeze, like a flowing ink painting; Shi Xiong skipped along behind him, occasionally drawn to the sugar painting stalls on the street, his bright eyes full of curiosity.

After crossing the Zhuque Bridge, the majestic stone mansion with its upturned eaves comes into view.

The gilded beast heads with rings on the vermilion gate gleamed warmly in the setting sun. The plaque above the lintel, inscribed with the words "Shi Mansion," was the work of a renowned calligrapher, its strokes vigorous and powerful. Stone lions stood proudly on either side, their paws resting on clearly defined embroidered balls, their manes carved with individual strands, exuding an aura of majesty. The vermilion gate was half-closed, and the door knockers still bore traces of faded red silk, swaying gently in the breeze, as if welcoming their master home.

As soon as you step onto the white marble steps, you can see the exquisite brick carving of "Pine and Crane for Longevity" on the screen wall inside the gate. The pine branches are gnarled and vigorous, and the cranes are lifelike. Suddenly, you hear a clear, cheerful shout from behind the screen wall: "Daddy! Daddy's back!"

Qi Meizhen, dressed in a moon-white silk dress with a white magnolia blossom tucked behind her ear, led her four-year-old son, Shi Huai'en, while cradling her infant son, Shi Muyuan, who was not yet a year old. Her originally pale face flushed with emotion, and her phoenix eyes instantly filled with tears. She staggered forward, her skirt sweeping across the cobblestone path in the courtyard, startling a few petals into falling. On either side of the path, Taihu stones were arranged in a pleasing, strewn pattern, with verdant calamus blooming between them, contrasting beautifully with the wisteria climbing the trellis, creating an elegant and picturesque scene.

Shi Huaien broke free from his mother's hand and rushed into Shi Feiyang's arms like a joyful little deer, tightly hugging his father's neck with his little hands: "Father, why did you only come back now? Huaien has been looking out from the city wall every day!"

Shi Feiyang laughed and lifted his son high, his lips gently brushing against his rosy cheek: "Look, my Huai'en has grown taller again!" His gaze shifted and met Qi Meizhen's tearful eyes.

She carried her infant son to him, her voice choked with sobs, "Was your journey safe? Were you hurt?" Her slender fingers trembled as she ran her fingers over his shoulders and arms, careful not to miss a single scratch. "Since you left, I've stayed in the Buddhist hall every day, chanting sutras and praying for you..."

Passing through the hanging flower gate, you enter the inner courtyard. The ground paved with blue bricks is spotless, and in the birdcages hanging under the veranda, thrushes are chirping merrily. Tender green vines twine around the pillars, dotted with a few small flowers.

Suddenly, Shi Muyuan reached out and grabbed Shi Feiyang's clothes with his chubby little hand.

Qi Meizhen burst into laughter through her tears and handed the child to him, saying, "Quick, let Daddy hold our little Muyuan. He's been crying for Daddy every night these days." Shi Feiyang carefully took the infant. The little guy smelled of milk and stared at him curiously with his big, dark eyes. Suddenly, he giggled and drooled, wetting Shi Feiyang's clothes.

"Chief!" A loud shout broke the cozy atmosphere.

"Round Barrel" Lu Dechu swayed his short, stocky body as he pushed through the crowd, his face beaming with a wide grin that revealed his teeth: "You're finally back! Everyone at headquarters has been waiting for you these past few days!"

Jiang Huotian, nicknamed "Bamboo Pole," who was standing next to him, was as thin as bamboo, but his eyes were red as he clasped his hands and said, "Brother Lu says 'When will the Grand Master return?' three times a day, and he even steamed a few extra baskets of buns in the kitchen!"

The servants and maids, disguised as members of the Xiong Ying Society, had already gathered around. Xiao Die, a former embroiderer, held up the newly made brocade robe, her eyes reddening: "Chief, this is a cloud brocade robe that Madam embroidered for you herself. She counted the stitches all night long..."

The old butler, Uncle Chen, carried the hangover soup with trembling hands, his voice shaking: "Quickly drink a bowl of soup to warm yourself up. Madam instructed that hot soup must be prepared no matter how late it is."

Qi Meizhen leaned against Shi Feiyang, her fingertips unconsciously twisting his sleeve: "The study has been recently filled with snow-topped tea from the Western Regions, and a flower petal bath has been prepared in the bathroom..."

She suddenly lowered her head, her voice as soft as spring willow catkins: "And...and I have a new Jiangnan folk song that I want to sing for you..." As she spoke, a charming blush rose to the tips of her ears. Shi Feiyang embraced her slender waist and placed a kiss on her hair: "With you here, this Shi mansion is truly home."

As dusk deepened, the palace lanterns inside the stone mansion lit up one by one, casting a warm yellow glow on the carved wooden windows, illuminating the exquisite "plum blossom, orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum" patterns on the window frames. Laughter and the aroma of tea wafted far and wide, like a timeless human painting.

On New Year's Eve, Tiger Hill Sword Pool was shrouded in a hazy silver veil. The icicles hanging from the eaves of the ancient temple gleamed coldly in the moonlight, resembling short swords hanging upside down.

Above the icy pool, wisps of mist rise, mingling with the warm glow of red lanterns on the shore, casting a hazy, indistinct glow on the cliff carvings of "Wind Ravine and Cloud Spring." The jagged rocks along the pool stand like a forest of swords and halberds; legend has it that King Helü of Wu's three thousand swords slumbered here, now, illuminated by the smoke and fire, adding to their solemn and mysterious aura.

Shi Feiyang, dressed in a black brocade robe, stood on the stone steps. Beside him, Qi Meizhen held her young son, while her eldest son, Shi Huaien, held Shi Xiong's hand, curiously watching the lion dance with its claws outstretched in front of the Caobang headquarters.

A thin layer of frost clung to the bronze animal heads on the vermilion gate, and newly replaced peachwood charms on the lintel swayed gently in the wind, carrying the scent of ink mixed with the fragrance of winter plum blossoms. Icicles hanging from the eaves occasionally fell, making a soft, clattering sound on the bluestone slabs, echoing the sporadic sounds of firecrackers coming from afar.

"Grandmaster!" Jin Liufu, the deputy leader of the Jiangnan Canal Gang, known as "Water Dragon," arrived through the snow, his raincoat still damp with the moisture from Taihu Lake, and the Fish Intestine Sword at his waist gleaming with an eerie light. "The brothers have prepared aged Daughter's Red wine, just waiting for you to open the jar!"

Before he could finish speaking, "Centipede" Gongsun Ren rushed forward, brandishing his twelve-section soft whip, and sneered, "Hearing about the atrocities committed by the Embroidered Uniform Guard in Bozhou, do you really think we are soft persimmons to be kneaded?" His voice startled the night owls by the cold pool, and the flapping of their wings shattered the cold moonlight on the pond.

As soon as everyone entered the hall, the long sandalwood table was already laden with famous Suzhou dishes. The sweet aroma of squirrel-shaped mandarin fish mingled with the wine-scented fragrance of drunken crab, creating a lively atmosphere with the crackling of charcoal.

Through the carved window lattice, one can still see the gnarled branches of the ancient pines on the opposite bank of the Sword Pool covered with thick snow, resembling guards clad in silver armor.

Yang Feng, nicknamed "Blue-Faced Beast," slammed his fist on the table, making the cups and saucers clatter. "Chief! My iron swords have been itching for a long time. This time, I'm going to Bozhou to sever the sinews and bones of those scoundrels!" The blue markings on his face twisted with rage, making him look like a man-eating beast from legend. His voice echoed between the stone walls, startling the swallows in their nests on the beams and causing dust to fall.

Kong Sanjiao, the "Seven-Cultivation Sword" who came from the Naiman tribe, slowly drew his long sword. The seven blood grooves on the blade reflected the candlelight, and the sword's edge reflected the shimmering light of the sword pool outside the window: "My sword has drunk the blood of the villains of the Western Regions, and it should let the Embroidered Uniform Guard taste it too."

He stood beside Fan Shi, who was in a "Xingyi Quan" stance, his fists swirling powerfully, causing the snow in the cracks between the blue bricks on the ground to swirl up.

Shi Feiyang picked up his wine bowl, the amber liquid rippling within: "I will always remember the brotherhood of you all. But please look—" He raised his hand and pushed open the carved window, a chill carrying snowflakes rushing in.

Hundreds of cargo boats on Taihu Lake are brightly lit, like a galaxy fallen to earth, while nearby Jianchi Pond is dotted with river lanterns, drifting with the waves, like stars falling into a cold pool.

"The Jiangnan Canal Gang maintains half of the country's canal transport. If they are leaderless, how can the people's livelihood be guaranteed?" Shi Feiyang's voice blended with the roar of the Sword Pool Waterfall, making it sound even more steady and profound.

Liu Yehua, the "Hundred-Leaf Blade," suddenly stood up, the nine willow-leaf blades at his waist clashing together with a clear ringing sound, their cold light reflecting off the chilling aura of the sword pool: "Are we just going to let the brothers of the Xiong Ying Society bleed in Bozhou? My Hundred-Leaf Blade Technique is specifically designed to break through heavy armor!"

His thick eyebrows stood on end, and the red birthmark at the corner of his eye trembled with anger.

Southwest Wind, wielding the "Tai Chi Blade," stroked his long beard and slowly swirled the wine cup in his palm, the wine reflecting the swaying shadows of red lanterns outside the window: "Hero Liu, please wait. The Grand Master is absolutely right. Jiangnan is our foundation. Without a stable foundation, how can we talk about revenge?"

Shi Xiong suddenly peeked out from behind Shi Feiyang, his childish voice carrying a firm tone: "The Grand Master said that a true hero must consider the big picture. The Grand Master has his own arrangements for Bozhou!" The white rainbow sword in his arms was slightly warm, as if responding to his young master's passion. The gems inlaid on the hilt shimmered in the candlelight, like the sword light sleeping deep in the sword pool awakening.

Qi Meizhen put down her sleeping infant son and moved gracefully to Shi Feiyang's side: "Brothers, Feiyang has been worried day and night these days, even plotting in his dreams."

She gently stroked her husband's hand, her eyes filled with heartache, "Our greatest support for suppressing the rebellion in Bozhou is to protect Jiangnan."

At this moment, a gust of wind suddenly rose by the Sword Pool, whipping up icicles from the eaves and sending them crashing to the ground. The crisp sound startled everyone into silence, with only the murmuring of the cold pool water echoing these words.

After several rounds of drinks, everyone became increasingly tipsy.

Shi Feiyang led Qi Meizhen to the shore of Taihu Lake, where the sound of firecrackers could be heard in the distance.

Shi Huaien ran through the snow holding a lotus lantern, his footprints winding across the thin snow; Shi Xiong pestered Lu Dechu to teach him boxing, the snow mist stirred up by the punches glistening in the moonlight.

Yang Feng wielded the Ghost Ring Greatsword with great skill, the snowflakes whipped up by the blade resembling shattered jade under the moonlight, while the ice surface of the sword pool behind him reflected the figures of everyone, weaving together with the fireworks in the sky to create a magnificent panorama of the martial world.

Looking at the lively scene, Shi Feiyang was filled with emotion—it was these loyal brothers who were his strongest support, just like the Tiger Hill Sword Pool, which has stood firm for thousands of years.

Taihu Lake was shrouded in a hazy mist during the Spring Festival, with Yuantouzhu Island appearing and disappearing in the distance, like a traditional Chinese ink painting slowly unfolding between heaven and earth. Shi Feiyang, dressed in a moon-white long robe, stood at the bow of the boat, his oars gently cutting through the lake's surface, creating ripples.

At the stern, Qi Meizhen wore a lotus-colored silk skirt, with a white jade hairpin tucked behind her ear, and a few lingering plum blossom scents still clinging to her hair.

She leaned on Shi Feiyang's shoulder, her eyes, as clear as autumn water, brimming with tenderness, as if they could reflect the entire spring scenery of Jiangnan.

"Feiyang, look at this sunset. Doesn't it look like the brocade you brought back from the capital last time?" Qi Meizhen's voice was as soft as willow catkins in spring, and her fingertips gently touched the sky.

In the distance, the sunset painted the lake surface with a magnificent crimson hue, and amidst the shimmering waves, the lights of fishing boats twinkled like fallen stars.

Shi Feiyang turned to look at the woman in his arms. Her eyelashes cast dappled shadows in the setting sun, making her crimson lips appear even more vibrant. "Even the most beautiful brocade cannot compare to one ten-thousandth of you." Shi Feiyang put down the oar and hugged Qi Meizhen even tighter.

His voice was deep and gentle, with a captivating power.

Qi Meizhen's cheeks flushed, and she gently punched him: "You're just trying to make me happy. These days, you've been working day and night for the affairs of the Xiong Ying Society's headquarters, and it breaks my heart to see you like this." As she spoke, her eyes reddened slightly, and she reached out to gently stroke the weariness between Shi Feiyang's brows.

Shi Feiyang took her hand and gently kissed it: "With you by my side, no matter how tired I am, it's all worth it. I still remember when we first met, you held a Miao sword, so dashing and heroic. I knew then that I could only have you in this life."

His words carried a hint of reminiscence and deep affection.

Qi Meizhen leaned closer, her hair brushing against Shi Feiyang's cheek, carrying a faint fragrance. She softly sang a Jiangnan folk song, her melodious voice flowing gently across the lake: "The crescent moon shines over the nine provinces, some families rejoice, some families grieve..."

The song is filled with longing and deep affection for the person in front of you.

Shi Feiyang listened quietly, feeling that the most beautiful melody in the world was the soft singing of his lover.

Suddenly, a gentle breeze swept by, and the lake surface rippled with fine waves, shattering the sunset reflected in the water into specks of golden scales.

Qi Meizhen's singing stopped abruptly. She grabbed Shi Feiyang's sleeve in a panic, "Feiyang, I...I'm scared."

Shi Feiyang held her tightly in his arms, his chin resting on the top of her head: "Don't be afraid, I'm here."

As he spoke, he channeled his inner strength to gently stabilize the small boat. No matter how strong the wind and waves were outside, the boat remained as calm as ever.

“You’re always like this, protecting me no matter what danger we face.” Qi Meizhen looked up, her eyes filled with admiration and dependence. “If it weren’t for you, I… I really don’t know what I would do in this life.”

Actually, this heroine was just being coquettish.

Her voice grew softer and softer, until it was almost a murmur. Shi Feiyang looked at the tears glistening in her eyes and couldn't help but lower his head to kiss her: "Silly girl, I promised you that I would protect you for the rest of my life, and I will never break my promise."

As the sun gradually sets, the ripples on the lake become increasingly gentle.

Shi Feiyang picked up the oars again and rowed slowly. The small boat moved forward in the twilight, as if sailing into a dream.

Qi Meizhen began to hum softly again, this time with an even gentler melody, as if she were telling endless stories.

As Shi Feiyang rowed, he listened, occasionally glancing down at the person in his arms, a happy smile unconsciously spreading across his lips.

As night deepened, the lights on Taihu Lake lit up one after another, twinkling like the Milky Way falling from the sky to earth.

Shi Feiyang moored the boat in a quiet harbor and took out a jar of fine wine from the cabin.

The two sat facing each other at the bow of the boat, sharing the New Year's wine. Qi Meizhen's cheeks flushed even more beautifully against the backdrop of the wine's aroma. She raised her wine glass and said softly, "I wish to enjoy the spring scenery of Taihu Lake with you year after year."

Shi Feiyang smiled and clinked glasses with her: "I will never let you down!" On this tranquil night by Taihu Lake, the two nestled together, watching the stars twinkle in the sky and listening to the lake water gently lapping against the shore, as if the whole world consisted only of their heartbeats and breaths.

The capital city was still shrouded in the chill of lingering snow after the Lantern Festival. Shi Feiyang carried Shi Xiong on his back, shattering the thin frost on the glazed tiles. The vortex of energy activated by Mingyu Gong enveloped the two of them, soaring over the palace walls like eagles.

The sweet aroma of sugar painting stalls mingled with firecracker debris wafted from the alleys below, yet it couldn't conceal the frost-like brow furrowing between his brows—this trip to the capital was a challenge from the turbulent martial arts world.

The wine flag of "Mei Niang Fang" fluttered in the wind, and Shi Feiyang lightly tapped the wine jar with his toes, causing the aged wine in the jar to ripple.

The disciples of the branch were counting weapons in the cellar when they saw him arrive and all knelt on one knee.

Shi Feiyang casually grabbed a jar of Nu'er Hong wine. The wine was spicy on the palate, but it couldn't dispel the heaviness in his throat. "Pass down the order: turn all the overt agents into covert agents within three days." After that, he and Shi Xiong headed towards the Eight Great Hutongs.

The beaded curtains of "Mier Pavilion" tinkled as the middle-aged proprietress, Wan Niang, leaned against the carved wooden railing, her gilded nail guards lightly tapping the railing: "Master Shi, you've come at just the right time." She tossed out a scroll of secret reports, the writing scorched by Western Region sealing wax: "That old bastard Kang Fusheng has hired the 'Two Elders of Xuanming' from Kunlun and the 'Poison Dragon Venerable' from the Western Regions, both ruthless characters capable of tearing tigers and leopards apart with their bare hands."

Shi Xiong gripped the White Rainbow Sword at his waist, his youthful face filled with worry: "Young Master, why don't we delay the suppression of the rebellion? If the war in Bozhou slows down, the court won't have the resources to deal with us." Suddenly, the wine cup in Shi Feiyang's palm shattered, the wine mixed with broken porcelain splashing onto the blue bricks: "No! The rebels have burned, killed, and looted, leaving countless corpses strewn across the fields. Are we going to exchange thousands of lives for a moment of peace for Xiong Ying Society?"

He gazed at the swaying lanterns outside the window, his inner energy condensing into ice crystals in his palm. "Order each branch to break up the 500,000 brothers into smaller units. Remember, true power lies not in numbers, but in what is hidden and invisible."

As dusk deepened, candlelight flickered in the secluded room of the "Comfortable Inn".

Lu Hongye was dressed in a moon-white ruqun (a type of traditional Chinese dress), and the baby in her arms was giggling while biting a rattle drum.

The jasmine hairpin in her hair swayed slightly as she rose, and the beauty mark at the corner of her eye seemed about to drip in the firelight: "Feiyang! My husband!"

After being separated for two years, Lu Hongye was overjoyed to suddenly see her husband appear.

Before she finished speaking, Yang Xue'er had already emerged from behind the screen. Her Liaodong sable fur coat made her look exceptionally beautiful. The child in her arms was exquisitely beautiful. The child did not cry or fuss when he saw strangers, but only reached out to Shi Feiyang to hold him.

Shi Xiong sensibly stepped outside the door, leaving only the three of them in the secret room, their heartbeats audible to each other.

Lu Hongye's fingertips traced Shi Feiyang's delicate cheek, her voice trembling: "The atrocities committed by the Embroidered Uniform Guard against our disciples in Bozhou are like a thousand ants gnawing at my heart every time I think about them. When I received the news that day, I wished I could fly to your side immediately."

Yang Xue'er shoved the child into Shi Feiyang's arms, drew her soft sword from her waist, and drew sparks on the ground: "Who cares about the Xuanming Elders or the Poison Dragon Venerable? The sword formation of my Liaodong Qingfeng Pavilion is not to be trifled with!"

She flicked the candlelight with the tip of her sword, making the crimson nail polish at the corners of her eyes appear like blood. "Last time at Changbai Mountain, I single-handedly broke through thirty-six ambushes. This time, I will make sure the Embroidered Uniform Guard knows that messing with the Xiong Ying Society is to be an enemy of the entire martial arts world!"

Shi Feiyang held his infant son in one arm and embraced the two women with the other. His true energy unconsciously overflowed, causing the candlelight in the secret room to flicker slightly: "Xue'er's sword formation and Hongye's Breaking Army Spear Technique are the reliance of the Xiong Ying Society. But this time, the opponent is different from the past."

He pulled out Wan Niang's secret report, the flames sizzling as the Western Region sealing wax burned. "These people are not under the control of the imperial court; they only recognize gold and silver. Their methods are probably even more ruthless than those of the Embroidered Uniform Guard."

Lu Hongye suddenly pulled a black wooden box from her sleeve. A stench wafted out as she opened it: "This is the antidote for the 'Thousand Spider Poison Hand' from Miao territory. I've had people search for it for three months." Her eyelashes trembled. "In case... in case you encounter a master of poison..."

Yang Xue'er snorted coldly and pulled out a yellowed map from her bosom: "Twelve hidden agents have been laid in Liaodong. If the situation becomes critical, we can retreat to Changbai Mountain. My mother said that everyone in Qingfeng Pavilion will live and die with Xiong Ying Hui!"

Her voice carried the boldness of a Northeastern woman, but softened when it met Shi Feiyang's gaze. "But... but you must be careful." Outside the secret room, Shi Xiong gripped the hilt of his sword, listening to the words inside, sometimes fierce and sometimes gentle, and suddenly felt a heavy weight on his shoulders.

In the distance, the watchman's gong sounded, startling crows into flight. Shi Xiong gazed at the rolling dark clouds over the capital, gripping the undelivered secret letter at his waist—the latest news from the Jiangnan shipping guild: the Embroidered Uniform Guard's claws had quietly extended towards Taihu Lake. (End of Chapter)