Gao Wu insists on cultivating immortality.

Chapter 425 Extraordinary Person
A conspiracy is something that can't be brought to light.

Gao Wu doesn't need to outwit or outmaneuver others; he can simply expose the Blood-Clad Alliance's actions.

With a group of assassins right there, he didn't need to bother persuading Tie Zhen. He trusted that this young woman could make the right judgment.

Old Slant and the others couldn't believe he would do this, not because they were incompetent, but because they didn't know he was no longer Old Fourth Gao.

It's important to understand that Gao Laosi was just a minor figure in the Blood Robe Alliance. Reporting the Blood Robe Alliance for siding with the Tie family might seem like a good choice, but for Gao Laosi, it was a dead end.

The Blood-Clad Alliance's operation failed this time, and they may never dare to attack the Tie family again.

However, the massive Blood Robe Alliance had no problem dealing with a nobody like Gao Laosi.

If Gao Laosi were here, he would never dare to betray the Blood Robe Alliance.

Gao Wu didn't care about any of that. If the Blood Robe Alliance really wanted to be powerful, they would have already seized control of the government and become emperors. Why would they need to make money by killing people?

Ultimately, the Blood-Clad Alliance was just a Jianghu gang.

He did the Tie family a favor, so exchanging it for a set of advanced martial arts techniques isn't unreasonable. Actually, learning someone's martial arts through sparring isn't impossible, it just takes time.

The martial arts of this world have been passed down for thousands of years, forming numerous schools and styles. They have gathered the wisdom and talent of countless people.

In comparison, it's more efficient to learn directly from someone.

Gao Wu did not know the ratio of time flow between this world and the outside world, because the two may not belong to the same universe and have different spacetime structures.

Perhaps a year here is equivalent to a day outside. Of course, it could also be the other way around.

With Lao Qin's help, the gathering of the Nine Cauldrons' Qi will be much faster. However, time is still very precious.

Gao Wu saw from afar that a group of lurking assassins were fleeing in a disheveled state, heading straight for the stables.

Only by acquiring horses would they have a chance to escape the cavalry pursuit. After all, these fully armored cavalrymen wouldn't be very fast.

Many knights also saw the fleeing group. The head of the guards, Iron Three Spears, looked at Iron Zhen and awaited his orders.

Although Tie Sanqiang came from humble beginnings, he was a veteran of many battles. He feared that the enemy was using a feint and that a hasty pursuit would lead to another ambush.

Their duty was to protect Tie Zhen, not to hunt down bandits. Having two accomplices among them was enough to get a confession.

It's one thing for a group of thieves to hide in the shadows, but once they show themselves, it won't be difficult to catch them.

Tie Zhen thought for a moment and said, "Take a team to pursue them, but be careful."

These thieves dared to plot against her; they were incredibly audacious. Tie Zhen was both shocked and furious. If it weren't for this man's warning, she would have been in real danger.

The key is that she wants to see who has the audacity to lay a hand on her. Arresting a few more might help uncover the mastermind behind it all.

Gao Wu warned, "These people are all assassins from the Blood Robe Alliance, skilled in assassination. Be careful, everyone."

Tie Sanqiang glanced at Gao Wu but didn't say anything. He then waved his hand and said, "One team, follow me. We don't care if you live or die."

More than a dozen knights followed Iron Three Spears and charged out. Some picked up longbows, while others held crossbows.

No matter what kind of martial arts master they are, they'll be riddled with arrows under powerful bows and crossbows. Especially in an open area like a horse ranch, their full armor, fast horses, and long spears give them a huge advantage.

Let alone a dozen or so people, even dozens or hundreds of people would be terrified and flee on the spot if they were charged by the cavalry.

Gao Wu didn't say anything more; he had already given them a heads-up. If these people suffered a loss, it wasn't his fault.

However, the hidden expert probably won't make a move.

Even top-tier experts would find it difficult to fight head-on against dozens of elite cavalrymen; it's simply too difficult.

Gao Wu looked at Hu Qiniang, who was now slumped on the ground, her face filled with fear and unease, tears streaming down her face, making her look particularly soft and pitiful.

He sneered inwardly. Even if this old woman was scared, she wouldn't act like this. She was putting on this act mainly to gain sympathy and to show that she was harmless.

However, Tie Zhen was not easily fooled. If Hu Qiniang fell into the Tie family's hands, she would be in serious trouble.

Tie Zhen was also sizing up Gao Wu and Hu Qiniang, her gaze still fixed on Gao Wu: "What's your name?"

"Gao Wu." Gao Wu bowed respectfully, showing neither arrogance nor unease.

This made Tie Zhen look at Gao Wu with new respect, as she despised the sleazy and greasy nature of people from the martial arts world.

Although the middle-aged man in front of me had an ordinary appearance and rough skin, he was able to control his words and actions with tact and even had a frank and composed demeanor.

His eyes, in particular, were quite bright, completely lacking the dullness and greasiness typical of middle-aged people.

Tie Zhen nodded slightly and said, "Mr. Gao risked his life to warn me and prevented a disaster. I will definitely repay this kindness."

Tie Zhen's voice was quite pleasant, with a hint of deepness, and his words naturally revealed an air of superiority and nobility.

Gao Wu cupped his hands again: "Commander Tie is a pillar of the Northwest, protecting millions of Han people. It is my honor to be able to do a little favor for the Tie family."

"Sir, you are so righteous. My elder brother would surely admire you if he knew..." Tie Zhen felt even better when she heard Gao Wu express his great respect and admiration for her brother.

Even among those in the martial arts world, there are good men who distinguish right from wrong and value loyalty and righteousness!

The pursuing cavalry didn't get very far. They shot and killed seven or eight people from a distance with crossbows, and a few others jumped over the fence and disappeared into the bushes.

Tie Sanqiang carried several corpses back, including two men who had been shot in the legs but were still alive.

Tie Zhen immediately led everyone back to Blackwater City. Gao Wu was treated well and was escorted by several guards to a quiet residence.

Located deep within the northern part of the city, this place is surrounded by grand mansions and residences, inhabited by the wealthy and powerful.

This residence is actually a courtyard within a larger compound, but it has a separate small gate on the outside.

The side courtyard has three rooms, including a separate storage room and a latrine. The rooms are simply furnished but quite clean.

Gao Wu looked around the room and was quite satisfied. It was much more comfortable than living in a wooden shed.

Two guards stayed behind specifically to accompany Gao Wu. These two men were taciturn and lived in the small room next to Gao Wu's.

In the evening, a servant brought Gao Wu several sets of clothes and shoes.

Someone even brought a large bucket of hot water so that Gao Wu could bathe and change.

Gao Wu took a hot shower, changed into brand new clean clothes, shoes and socks, and felt a sense of lightness all over his body.

When he came out, servants brought him a sumptuous feast. Gao Wu invited the two guards to drink with him, but they refused.

Gao Wu didn't mind. The two men were clearly from the military and were responsible for watching over him, so naturally they wouldn't drink with him.

After indulging in a feast and drinks, Gao Wu, still slightly drunk, practiced a set of fist and foot techniques to regulate his internal energy, feeling that his internal energy had become even more refined.

The main reason is his extremely strong mental power. Even though the Gale Sword technique is not considered a high-level method, he can still progress very quickly by using his mental power to circulate true energy.

Opening up the meridians is not the end. Next, you need to continuously breathe in and purify your true energy. As your true energy becomes purer, your martial arts skills will naturally improve as well.

However, as people age, their energy declines. Without advanced techniques and exceptional talent and perseverance, their true energy can only remain at its original state, and making progress is extremely difficult.

Gao Lao Si's body has passed its golden age, and his foundation was not solid in his early years. It is only because of his exceptional martial arts talent that he can grasp the essence of a low-level martial art like the Gale Sword after seeing it only once.

After honing his inner energy through breathing exercises, Gao Wu estimated that he would master the Gale Sword's energy cultivation technique to its fullest extent within half a month.

At that time, I'm afraid I still wouldn't be close to being a top-tier master. After all, my martial arts level is too low...

The two guards next door heard Gao Wu snoring loudly and breathed a sigh of relief. They wouldn't have been able to stop him if he wanted to go out. Luckily, he was sensible, saving them a lot of trouble.

Tie Mansion, Study.

Sitting behind his desk, Tie Mu was reviewing the compiled confessions, while Tie Zhen sat quietly beside him, waiting. She was more than ten years younger than Tie Mu; her father had passed away shortly after her birth, and she had been raised by Tie Mu ever since.

In her heart, Tie Mu, her older brother, was actually similar to her father, only their relationship was closer.

"What's that person's name?" Tie Mu suddenly looked up and asked.

Tie Mu had thick eyebrows and fierce eyes. His square face was covered with a thick beard. He was broad-shouldered and strong, and sat upright with a straight back, exuding a powerful aura.

When he speaks, his voice is deep and resonant, full of power.

Tie Zhen knew what her elder brother was asking, and she said softly, "That man called himself Gao Wu."

She paused for a moment and then said, "I sent someone to inquire. His former name was Gao Laosi, and he had a nickname, 'Quick Sword.' He liked beautiful women and fine wine, and he was an assassin of the Blood Robe Alliance."

"I don't know why, but I suddenly realized something today and gave me a warning in advance."

Tie Zhen asked, "Could there be something wrong with Brother Gao Wu? Is it a ruse by the other side to put him in as a spy? Or is it to assassinate Brother Gao Wu?"

"Ha ha ha ha……"

Tie Mu laughed loudly, "What kind of nonsense is this? So many people have died, and the conspiracy has been exposed. What use is a mere swordsman they send in?"

His martial arts skills were already superb, and he was not afraid of even a third-rate swordsman, let alone the Blood-Clad Sword Master himself, who came to assassinate him.

If the Blood-Clad Alliance could kill whomever they wanted, they would have already dominated the world. Why would they need to engage in such shady dealings?

He pondered for a moment and said, "The Blood-Clad Alliance dares to provoke us, either because the Rong and Qiang people have offered a large sum of money, or because someone in the imperial court wants to deal with me, or it's hard to say whether the imperial court has joined forces with the two foreign tribes."

He had many enemies, but few of them were truly significant.

Judging from the testimonies of Hu Qiniang and others, the Blood-Clad Alliance had indeed been planning this for a long time.

Kidnapping Xiao Zhen is only the first step; there will surely be a series of plans to follow.

The Blood-Clad Alliance, a gang in the martial arts world, usually only makes a living through bloodshed at the bottom. For them to dare to provoke him, there must be a special reason behind it.

Tie Mu said, "No matter who Gao Wu was before, since he risked his life to save you, he should be rewarded handsomely."

"We must also publicize his righteous deeds extensively, so that people know he is a hero. They should also know that our Tie family is kind and trustworthy, and will surely repay our benefactors handsomely."

Tie Zhen nodded; she thought so too, but she wasn't sure if Gao Wu was trustworthy.

With her brother's words, she knew what to do.

The next morning, Tie Zhen personally visited Gao Wu in the courtyard and invited him to a banquet.

When Gao Wu heard that Tie Mu had personally hosted the banquet, he declined, saying, "How could this be? My meager contribution is not worthy of such a generous treat from Governor Tie."

Tie Zhen was pleased to hear Gao Wu speak so tactfully. To host the banquet for Gao Wu, they invited some of the most prominent figures from Blackwater City.

If Gao Wu says something inappropriate at the banquet, she and her older brother will both lose face.

She said, "You have saved my life. What is a small banquet compared to that? Please do not refuse, Mr. Gao."

Actually, Gao Wu was just being polite; it would be good to meet Tie Mu anyway.

As evening fell, the main hall of the Iron Mansion was brightly lit. High-ranking officials such as the military commander and the chief secretary were all present, as were important figures from some prominent families in Blackwater City.

There were over a hundred people in the hall, each sitting at their own table, creating a lively atmosphere.

Tie Mu first offered three cups of wine, then introduced Gao Wu to everyone, explaining that Gao Wu had saved Tie Zhen, made a great contribution, and was a righteous man of the martial world!
Tie Mu personally took Gao Wu and introduced him to many high-ranking officials and famous scholars.

Although no one knew who Gao Wu was, they had to give face to Governor Tie Mu, and they were all quite enthusiastic towards Gao Wu.

Gao Wu had seen it all, and he knew that although the group in front of him were elites from Blackwater City, their vision, knowledge, ability, and wisdom were far inferior to those of the martial arts masters in the Alliance.

The alliance's martial arts are not just about improving martial skills, but also about constantly transforming and elevating people on a spiritual level.

Gao Wu's standards are too high now, and he doesn't take the others seriously, so he can handle things with ease and composure.

Such composure not only amazed everyone attending the banquet, but even Tie Mu was astonished, thinking that Gao Wu was a man of great cunning and extraordinary!
It was originally just a formality, but after this banquet, Tie Mu began to pay more attention to Gao Wu.

After the banquet ended and the guests had all left, Tie Mu asked Gao Wu, "You saved Xiao Zhen, and I must repay you handsomely. Just tell me what you want, and I will not refuse."

That's a bit of an overstatement, but Tie Mu believed Gao Wu was a smart man and wouldn't speak recklessly.

Gao Wu was waiting for this, and he said directly, "I love martial arts, but unfortunately I have never been able to master it. Now I want to learn a genuine and advanced martial art, and I ask the Governor to grant my request."

Tie Mu laughed heartily: "That's easy."

After having Gao Wu seen off, Tie Mu sighed to Tie Zhen, "Judging from his speech and manner, this Gao Wu must have an extraordinary background. He hasn't lost his arrogance after years of wandering the martial world; he's truly a remarkable person."

He then added, "I see that he has long arms and legs, and his footwork is light yet solid. He has already achieved considerable skill in martial arts. Unfortunately, his foundation is ultimately unstable, and he is getting old."

Tie Mu thought for a moment and said, "Since Daoist Qingfeng is here as a guest, please pass on the Pure Yang Sword to Gao Wu. This sword originates from the Xuanwu Orthodox Sect, and its Pure Yang True Qi is considered top-notch in the world."

"If Gao Wu diligently practices this method, although he may not become a master, he can still improve his health and live a few more years..."

Seeing how thoughtful his elder brother was, Tie Zhen nodded repeatedly.

The next day, Gao Wu was fast asleep when he suddenly became alert and sat up. At that moment, an old Taoist priest in green robes floated into the room.

The old Taoist priest had gray hair and thin features. He held a whisk in his hand and looked quite like a Taoist immortal.

"I am Qingfeng, entrusted by Commander Tie, to pass on the Chunyang Sword to you."

Qingfeng said, "This sword technique is a secret of my sect, and it is not usually passed on to outsiders. I am making an exception by teaching it to you today. I will only teach you for three days. If you still cannot learn it in three days, then there is nothing I can do..."

The Pure Yang Sword has simple sword moves, but its method of circulating true qi is extremely complex and subtle, requiring a very high level of aptitude from the practitioner. Even within the Xuanwu Sect, few people have mastered it.

Gao Wu got off the bed and bowed to express his gratitude: "Thank you for your trouble, Daoist Master."

Master Qingfeng said, "I will first pass on the formula to you. The formula is the general outline of Qi cultivation, consisting of more than six thousand characters..."

He first read the entire general outline aloud, and then began to explain: "The spirit is the root of qi, and qi is the food of the spirit. This means that the spirit and soul are the foundation of qi cultivation, and qi is the food of the spirit. Do you understand?"

“Understood,” Gao Wu nodded and said, “The first sixty sentences, three hundred words, explain the principles between the soul, body, and true qi. First understand the principles, then learn the techniques…”

"Hmm?" A look of surprise appeared in Qingfeng Laodao's eyes. "You memorized the first three hundred words?"

Gao Wu nodded slightly: "I have a photographic memory. I remember all 6,360 characters of the general outline."

"Is that so?" Old Daoist Qingfeng was a little skeptical. Even if someone has a photographic memory, they still need to have seen it once. He only said it once and Gao Wu remembered it. He had never seen such a person before.

Gao Wu immediately recited the general outline from beginning to end. The entire recitation process was very smooth, without any pauses.

Old Taoist Qingfeng was even more surprised. He still couldn't believe it. Could this kid have learned the general principles somewhere before?

He led Gao Wu to the middle of the courtyard, drew his sword, and practiced the Thirty-Six Forms of Pure Yang.

The old Taoist priest sheathed his sword and looked at Gao Wu: "You've remembered this?"

"Okay. Got it." Gao Wu didn't stand on ceremony; he didn't have time to play dumb.

"You practice," the old Taoist priest said, handing the sword to Gao Wu, his eyes full of doubt.

The general outline is just text, but the Thirty-Six Forms of Pure Yang contain various details of physical movements. Even a smart person would need ten or eight days to barely learn one move of the sword technique.

Gao Wu took the sword and practiced it once. After finishing, he said to Qingfeng, "If there is anything wrong, please point it out, Master."

The old Taoist priest Qingfeng stared at Gao Wu for a long time without saying a word...

(End of this chapter)