Wan Jian returns to his clan!

Chapter 138 Eyeing the enemy with predatory intent, uttering boastful words.
"This horse was transported from Xueyantang via Shuangyue Wharf. It was originally intended as a coming-of-age gift for the Prince Gong's son. Murong Tiangang saw it and liked it very much, so he asked for it."

When it was time to part, Murong Qing didn't linger at all. He just gave a few important instructions and brought a horse over.

"Don't be fooled by how tall and majestic this 'Snow Red' is. It is said to be only three years old and not yet fully grown. It has a gentle temperament and long stamina."

"Feed it well with high-quality feed during this time, so it'll have a mount when it goes on a long journey."

"Alright, I'll ride Little Red to Bibo Mansion to find you when I have time."

When Lu Wubing saw Murong Qing looking at him with a deep, expectant gaze, he immediately understood what she meant and smiled to reassure her.

Sure enough, upon hearing this, Murong Qing's eyebrows danced with joy, unable to contain her excitement. Her eyes were as gentle as spring water as she smiled and said, "Wu Bing, you mustn't go back on your word. If you really come, I'll have Qing'er play with you."

She is gentle and generous, and has been very understanding since childhood. Her martial arts and swordsmanship have improved remarkably quickly. Now only eighteen, she has already reached the fourth rank and is known in the martial arts world as the "Spring Water Sword." You'll definitely like her when you meet her.

"【Spring Water Sword】? My niece Qing's cultivation is actually that high? Her name is somewhat similar to Xiao Yuehua's."

Lu Wubing appeared surprised.

"Have you no shame? Qing'er is two years older than you." Murong Qing blushed and said shyly, "That's right, she is as famous as Xiao Yuehua of the Autumn Water Sword, and is also known as a fairy in the martial arts world."

"This child's parents died in battle when she was young, and she's been with me since she was little. If she weren't from a collateral branch of the family, her fame might be even greater than Murong Tiangang's."

When she spoke of Qing'er, Murong Qing's eyes were full of tenderness; when she spoke of Murong Tiangang, her expression became slightly displeased.

Clearly, Murong Tiangang's actions had truly crossed her bottom line.

As a result, his feelings towards the Murong family subtly began to change.

There is a distinct sense of alienation.

Lu Wubing seemed to be deep in thought, thinking that if an eighteen-year-old fourth-rank swordsman could reach the proficiency level or above, that would be truly remarkable.

In fact, he's no less talented than Yue Lingfeng, the senior disciple of the Tianxing Sect. No, he's even more talented. Yue Lingfeng is already twenty-three years old and has only just broken through to the fourth rank.

As for Senior Sister Xiaolan, she is also only eighteen years old and is still in the seventh rank.

Oh dear, my silly senior sister.

Thinking of this, Lu Wubing couldn't help but feel worried for Ouyang Lan.

If it weren't for her cheerful and outgoing personality, the arrival of the Moon Fairy on the mountain this time would probably have made her feel very uncomfortable.

"Don't you like Qing'er, a girl who is only focused on martial arts and doesn't understand the ways of the world? Then there's Yao'er. She has been learning business from me since she was ten years old. She is intelligent, clever, and multi-talented, especially her cooking skills, which are almost comparable to Chef Ming of Manyuelou."

She was equally beautiful, and along with Qing'er, they were renowned. Many young masters from noble families and talented individuals from the martial arts world came to their door seeking an audience, but none could be granted.

"Ah, is my niece Yao this outstanding? I'll definitely have to try her cooking when I get the chance."

Lu Wubing's heart stirred. He saw that although Murong Qing was laughing heartily, he was actually very cautious in his mental state.

The way she spoke and acted was surprisingly similar to how her own cat always seemed to crave delicious dried fish.

He gently stretched out his arm and embraced Murong Qing's soft body, kissed her forehead, and laughed, "What Qing'er or Yao'er? No one is as considerate and gentle as Qing'er."
Legend has it that after breaking through to the Innate Realm, one can live to be 120 years old, and their youthful appearance will remain unchanged until the last ten years or so of their life, when they will not show signs of aging. By that calculation, Sister Murong, you are still a minor.”

"Cuckoo..."

Murong Qing's body went limp as if she had no bones, and she laughed so hard she trembled. "How can you compare like that? If you don't mind that your sister is getting old, why are you forcing yourself to endure it..."

Well, to be able to expand the business empire for the Murong family to such a large scale, they are no pushovers.

Although I was so caught up in the moment that I didn't realize what was happening.

But after a little reflection, I can figure it out.

In fact, Lu Wubing had never really done anything, let alone had a baby.

She was still a virgin.

Well, the problem is coming.

Under such circumstances, he still managed to restrain himself from moving her; if he weren't a eunuch, he certainly wouldn't want to.

"It's definitely not a eunuch," Murong Qing swore on his own two hands.

If eunuchs looked this fierce, they would have already defiled all three thousand beauties in the palace.

So, it means dislike.

After enduring it for a long time, Murong Qing finally asked the question.

“Look, the surrounding area is lush with trees, fragrant grass, and wildflowers, with a babbling brook. It’s nice for sightseeing, but it’s a bit too simple as a wedding room. Besides, I don’t like Murong Tiangang’s tent.”

Lu Wubing's mind raced, and he decided to tell a colossal lie.

"If it were an ordinary country girl, it would be fine to have sex in the mountains when the passion is strong. But with Fairy Murong's status, talent and beauty, I feel that she should not be so rashly humiliated."

Even if it's not a proper, traditional betrothal ceremony, at the very least, there should be a grand wedding with red candles burning high and a warm, luxurious bedchamber. Oh, and they should also bow to heaven and earth and drink a cup of wine to symbolize their union..."

"No illness!"

Murong Qing was filled with mixed emotions. She stared blankly at Lu Wubing, tears silently streaming down her face without her even realizing it.

I was incredibly moved.

From childhood to adulthood, no one had ever put themselves in her shoes or considered her feelings so much.

Although it was just an unintentional gesture and a kind word, it made her feel the deep-seated appreciation in him.

The sound of "Wu Bing" was even more melodious and charming than "Lu Lang," causing Lu Wu Bing's blood to rush to his head, and he almost swallowed back the words he had just spoken, turning around and transforming into a wolf in the moonlight.

"I have to go back."

The two lingered together for a while longer before Murong Qing reluctantly prepared to leave.

According to her, the stewards of the Murong family in Mingyang City have already defected to Murong Tiangang, and it is likely that other cities have also been infiltrated.

This situation indicates that Murong Longcheng is eager to eliminate the influence of this elder in the business world and to take control of all resources.

If no response is taken, the elders of the Murong family in Bibo Prefecture will likely be subdued one by one by Murong Longcheng.

He concentrated all industries in his hands, and then secretly amassed an army...

If he succeeds, not only Murong Qing, but also the other powerful elders will likely not fare well.

To live a long and peaceful old age is the best outcome.

This was something Murong Qing found absolutely intolerable.

"By the way, before you went up the mountain, you heard some news. Several black-listed experts have arrived at Twin Moon Island, and several groups of bandits have gone there to seek refuge. It seems that someone has issued a hero's order, which is likely aimed at the Heavenly Star Sect. You must be careful."

The so-called "Hero's Order" is certainly not a gathering of heroes, but rather a term used by outlaws to glorify themselves.

Most of the time, they'll find a good business opportunity, and if one company can't handle it all, they'll call on their friends and family, gather together, and launch an attack.

Then they divided the gold and silver in large chunks, making a fortune.

Shuangyue Island is located eighty li west of Mingyang City, not too far from Yuanxi Thousand-Household Office.

Located in the middle of the Luojiang River, it is a necessary passage for riverboats.

If this place were to gather many bandits and underworld experts, plunder ships, and block trade routes...

Not only will Mingyang City be restrained, but Yuyang and Shanyin Prefectures will also suffer greatly.

This effectively blocked all the routes for the Tianxing Sect to the west and north.

In this situation, Lu Wubing simply refused to believe that the other party wasn't targeting the Tianxing Sect.

"Thank you for informing me, Qing'er."

"Call sister!"

The sound of "Qing'er" made Murong Qing's bones go weak, and she gave Lu Wubing a sidelong glance.

With a wave of his hand, he rode away on two horses through the forest.

The moon was setting in the west, a gust of wind blew by, and the mountains and forests returned to silence.

Only a bonfire embers remained on the flat ground ahead, flickering with a faint red light, bearing witness to the fierce battle that had once taken place here.

……

Lu Wubing rode his little red horse and galloped away. In just a quarter of an hour, he arrived at the foot of Tianxing Peak.

He woke up the innkeeper, left the horse there, and ordered it to be fed with the best beans and grains. Without further ado, he returned to the mountain alone.

It was already late at night, and the next room was quiet; there wasn't even a sound of breathing.

Seventh Senior Sister Lin Wenjing was clearly still patrolling the mountain and had not returned.

He simply lay down fully clothed, placed the sword as a pillow on the outside, and fell into a deep sleep.

A lot happened that day.

He was tired too.

It seemed like I had only dozed off for a short while when I heard a commotion outside the courtyard.

Lu Wubing half-opened his eyes and felt a ray of red light pierce his pupils. He couldn't help but reach out to shield his eyes from the light and shake his head to clear his mind.

Then she went to fetch water to wash her face.

After washing up, she regained her bright and energetic appearance.

"It rained last night, but today the sun is shining brightly. It's a good day."

Looking up at the sky, Lu Wubing was in a very good mood. He wondered if Murong Qing had crossed the river overnight and returned to Bibo Prefecture, or if she would stay in Mingyang City for a few days to sort out the Murong family's businesses and clear out some people.

These are things he doesn't need to worry about.

Although he accepted the Blood Swallow Token, he never intended to shamelessly use the resources of the Murong family.

As poor as the Heavenly Star Sect may be, I, as the young sect leader, really shouldn't have come to this.

"Young Master Lu, where did you go last night? Why did you get up later than your senior sister?"

The voice could be heard before the person arrived.

A melodious, energetic voice came from outside the courtyard.

Today, Senior Sister Xiaolan is dressed in the Heavenly Star Swordsman outfit, with her hair tied in pigtails. Her eyes are bright and lively, and she has a smile on her lips. She looks incredibly neat and efficient.

With a bamboo basket in her left hand and a long sword in her right, wearing a pair of white embroidered shoes, she gently pushed open the fence gate, her eyes darting left and right.

"Senior Sister Xiaolan, why are you up so early? Are you looking for the kitten? Did you go to Monkey Mountain?"

I don't know what triggered the cat, but when I came back last night, it was already past midnight. The kitten, unusually, didn't sleep; instead, it sneaked out.

Judging from the excited look in its eyes, as if it were stealing a chicken, Lu Wubing guessed that this guy probably wanted to go to Monkey Mountain to pick fruit under the cover of darkness.

I don't know why, but they haven't come back yet.

Lu Wubing wasn't worried. After all, the kitten had been there many times and he had never seen it suffer a loss.

The little thing is very clever.

"Look what I brought!"

When Senior Sister Xiaolan removed the lid of the bamboo basket, she saw a bowl of meat noodles, a bowl of black rice porridge, and more than ten white steamed buns.

"Knowing you have a big appetite, I took a little more. It wasn't specially brought for you. Seventh Senior Sister was on patrol last night, and she was worried that you wouldn't be able to get up in the morning and wouldn't be able to get any good food, so she told me to bring it over early."

Looking at Senior Sister Xiaolan's awkward manner.

Lu Wubing smiled but didn't expose her.

If Seventh Senior Sister Lin Wenjing really brings food over, she usually cooks it herself.

She can not only cook a big pot of millet and red date porridge, but also roast a large piece of wild animal meat. I don't know where she got it from.

There's always meat in our house.

Lu Wubing even suspected that after Seventh Senior Sister finished her shifts, when she had nothing to do, she would secretly go into the mountains to hunt alone.

Miss Ouyang Lan, on the other hand, wouldn't know how to do these things.

She would only go to the dining hall to choose the best food, and she also brought over her own bowl of animal milk that she ate every morning.

Looking at the thick, white animal milk in the white porcelain bowl, Lu Wubing fell into deep thought.

"Don't you like this? Mother said that drinking a bowl every morning and evening can strengthen your bones and muscles. It's true that the taste isn't very good, I'll add some sugar next time."

"I really like it. Senior sister, let's split it in half and get started."

The two laughed and joked, just like when they used to hunt and roast meat in the mountains and forests. They sat facing each other, taking bites one after another, eating happily.

Lu Wubing would also occasionally enjoy being fed by his senior sister Xiaolan.

As a result, about 70-80% of the food in the basket ended up in his stomach, and he almost ate himself to the point of being stuffed.

What are those people doing?

The area outside the courtyard was even more lively. Looking into the distance, one could see a bustling crowd heading up the mountain, naturally towards the Tianxing Palace.

"It's [Jin Yu Tang]. After yesterday's competition, it was confirmed that the three lineages would be united. Uncle Shen was very easy to talk to and readily agreed."

This morning, before dawn, a large group of people delivered supplies up the mountain. There were weapons, medicine, money, and provisions—fifty cartloads in total…”

Ouyang Lan said with delight, "I heard from Junior Sister Xinzhu that she brought fifty-three fellow disciples with her this time to practice swordsmanship with Junior Brother. Originally, there were more than a hundred disciples scattered in various places, and we couldn't gather them all together at once."

However, once Senior Brother Shen Wanjian has dealt with the remnants of the Zhenhai Guard, he can lead the rest of his fellow disciples up the mountain to cultivate.

"Is it Dongfang Valley?"

Lu Wubing had also heard about this news.

A group of defeated soldiers passed through Mingyang territory, annihilating several villages and engaging in widespread burning, killing, and looting, displaying a ferocity even greater than that of bandits.

The master's wife is even preparing to go down the mountain to take action herself.

However, upon hearing that the Jin Yu Tang gang had mobilized a large force to eliminate this villain, the mission was not carried out.

In fact, when it comes to the overall strength of their disciples, the Jin Yu Tang, which occupies Mingyang and has countless businesses, far surpasses the Wangtian Cliff lineage of Tianxing Peak.

There's no other reason than that wealth breeds power.

From his name to his gang, Shen Liancheng exudes the air of a nouveau riche.

His family was wealthy, and they secretly recruited soldiers and built up their power base. Others might not know, but Ouyang Zheng and his wife certainly did.

They even had a general understanding of the complicated relationship between the Taiping Army outside the city and Jin Yutang.

Therefore, when she heard that Jin Yutang had mobilized a large number of people, her master's wife felt relieved.

"Is there going to be no problem?"

Recalling the events that had occurred in Mingyang City, Lu Wubing felt a vague sense of unease and suddenly asked, "Which direction did Dongfang Gu escape to?"

"I heard it's around Shuangyu Wharf, they should be going to the island in the middle of the river. Those remnants of the army are from the navy, they are skilled in swimming, they can only go down the Luo River, they won't leave the waterways."

Ouyang Lan was better informed than her fellow disciples.

It must have been that her master and mistress didn't hide anything from her and were intentionally cultivating their precious daughter's experience in the martial arts world, often analyzing things for her.

Now he speaks fluently and knowledgeably.

"Is the name of the island in the river Shuangyue Island (Double Moon Island)?"

“Junior Brother, how do you know? That island is shaped like two crescent moons, overlapping each other, separated by a ten-zhang (approximately 33 meters) of water. It’s quite peculiar. The locals also call it Twin Moon Island. There was a gang of water pirates on it, but Father wiped them out a long time ago.”

Lu Wubing's heart stirred.

He had only recently heard Murong Qing mention that Shuangyue Island was a gathering place for many skilled outlaws and top-ranked figures from the Black List, and he wondered what they were plotting.

This remnant of the Zhenhaiwei garrison happened to escape to this place.

"Let's go and report to our master. I've heard that there might be a master of unorthodox methods hiding on that island. We shouldn't underestimate them."

Although Murong Qing's situation is not easy to explain.

However, given the safety of all the disciples of Jin Yutang, they could only try to convey the news tactfully.

Her secret affair was exposed.

It's better than letting the disciples of [Jin Yu Tang] walk headlong into the enemy's trap without any precautions.

……

"It's alright. I've also heard about the gathering of river bandits and outlaws. Your master's wife has already led Feng'er and the others down the mountain, and I expect good news to come soon."

He didn't seem to care much about finding his master, Ouyang Zheng.

Seeing that Lu Wubing still looked hesitant, he explained, "There were actually signs of this incident a long time ago."

Two days ago, Xinglong Trading Company and Sihai Escort Agency went up the mountain together to ask for help, saying that their skilled men had suffered heavy losses and many of their goods had been robbed.

Because of the Three Families Competition, we didn't send any people; we just told them to wait patiently..."

Ouyang Lan added from the side: "The Sihai Escort Agency was opened by some of our Jingxin Hall's senior disciples; the Longxing Chamber of Commerce is the property of our fourth senior brother's family, which is attached to Wangtian Cliff and receives dividends and offerings every year."

We don't accept just anyone as a disciple.

Some were recommended by security escort agencies, while others were adopted by merchant guilds traveling to various places.

There are three other external forces like this… Mother has the case files; I'll show them to you later.”

Ouyang Zheng stroked his beard and smiled.

They obviously think it's a good idea.

In the past, Yue Lingfeng was genuinely uninterested in these kinds of things.

I told him, but it went in one ear and out the other.

Ouyang Zheng and Qin Huaiying thought that their eldest disciple was still young and didn't like these mundane matters, so they didn't force him.

It just means the two of them have to work a little harder and handle things themselves.

Ouyang Lan didn't care at first, but she learned a little about it after hearing it so much at home.

At this point, Lu Wubing should be groomed as the young sect leader.

Some things naturally fall on his shoulders.

"When Master's wife and senior brother came down the mountain, were they alone and outnumbered?"

"It shouldn't be that bad. Junior Brother Shen won't stand idly by. With Jin Yutang making such a large-scale deployment this time, he will definitely be there to oversee things. I guess he still has the intention of giving his disciples some experience."

Besides, there's also the Yuanxi Thousand-Household Garrison. Junior Brother Li's troops aren't too far from Shuangyu Wharf. If he receives the news, he can lead his troops straight there and arrive in less than an hour.

A few bandits and brigands alone could not possibly threaten them.

Ouyang Zheng greatly admired Lu Wubing's caution and meticulousness.

However, he felt that Lu Wubing should not focus his attention on territorial disputes and martial arts battles for the time being.

He is still very young, with unlimited potential, and his martial arts and swordsmanship are improving rapidly.

At this point, in the name of the young sect leader, and with his ability to accurately guide the disciples to improve rapidly, his greatest use is still in training troops.

First, improve the combat strength of your disciples.

Strengthen the core strength of the sect.

That's better than anything else.

Even if he worked himself to death, he couldn't make the Tianxing Sect prosper on his own; ultimately, a large and powerful force is needed.

"Go ahead, the disciples are already waiting. Today is the first time you, as the young sect leader, will lead the disciples in sword practice, so I will not go and cause any trouble."

After you finish practicing your sword, remember to visit Tian Shu Academy and pay your respects to your Martial Aunt Guang Han. From what she said, it seems she has something to tell you…

"I understand, my disciple."

Seeing that the sect leader's expression was inscrutable, he avoided Ouyang Lan's direction and gave her a wink.

Lu Wubing immediately understood.

This is the little princess's elders coming to interrogate her.

Or perhaps, it's a thank you.

As an elder of the Bright Moon Sect, the Moon Fairy Ji Changge is closely related to the Heavenly Star Sect.

But this martial uncle also has another identity: the eldest princess of the Great Li Dynasty, who was given the title of Princess Taiping.

For some reason, she didn't go to Dali Weijing, but instead went to Mingyue Sect to cultivate.

But her status as a princess was never actually taken away.

She also had a very good relationship with her aunt and niece, Ji Wenxiu.

This time, the main force in bringing Princess Chang Le Ji Wenxiu back from Northern Zhou was the Moon Fairy Ji Changge.

With Huling Pass besieged, Ji Changge single-handedly withstood several attacks from the Northern Zhou Demonic Sect and the Black Dragon Platform experts, managing to hold out until reinforcements arrived.

Furthermore, prior to this, they used a clever escape tactic to send Princess Wenxiu out of the encirclement.

He was extremely powerful in both intelligence and martial arts.

Lu Wubing could sense the respect in Ouyang Zheng's tone when he mentioned the Moon Fairy.

This senior uncle might be very strong; perhaps he has already quietly broken through to the Innate Realm.

Think about it this way.

Lu Wubing felt somewhat ashamed for his sect leader.

As the former leader of the Tianxing Sect, the top of the Three Divine Peaks, he is now at the bottom of the Three Divine Peaks.

One after another, innate masters keep popping up in other sects.

He only has one rank one here, and that's him.

This situation is rather unsightly.

No wonder Master Ouyang Zheng had a deep frown, with a red mark showing between his brows.

He must be under a lot of pressure.

……

"The eldest, second, third, and sixth senior brothers have all gone down the mountain. Master's wife said we should continue practicing. Quite a few of Jin Yutang's fellow disciples have arrived, but it's the other side at Meng Hu Ao..."

Lin Wenjing's expression turned slightly unpleasant.

After returning from her night patrol and having breakfast, she didn't go back to rest but instead ran to the Sword Inquiry Platform.

Upon roll call, it was discovered that only seven disciples had arrived from the Tiger's Den.

This was the young sect leader's first time gathering disciples to practice swordsmanship, and he had even declared beforehand that he would change the cultivation method to enhance the disciples' combat abilities.

There were far too few people showing up to support them.

"Master said we need to guard against bandits, and all my fellow disciples are in the army and cannot be separated from us, so I won't be able to come for this 'Seven-Day Sword Training'."

The gaunt young man carrying the sword looked rather unwell. He stepped forward, greeted the young sect leader, and said in a low voice.

This is Yang Tong.

During the Three Sects Grand Competition, under the guidance of Lu Wubing, his swordsmanship improved to the proficiency level.

He made a promise then and there: "If ordered to do so, I will go through fire and water without hesitation..."

Lu Wubing had a very good impression of him.

Because he didn't sense any negative emotions in this person's heart; his eyes were clear and honest, and his reverence was genuine.

Lu Wubing glanced at the other six young men behind him who exuded the air of soldiers. He noticed that they looked dejected and low-spirited, and he understood what had happened.

This isn't about being unable to be in two places at once; it's clearly about sending less favored, marginalized disciples up the mountain.

These people all had weak internal strength; two of them hadn't even reached the peak of the ninth rank, having only opened two meridians, and their internal energy and blood weren't very strong. Presumably, they weren't very noticeable in daily life.

Their current low morale is not without reason; they themselves know that they have been exiled.

'Uncle-Master Li, do you really look down on my guidance and special training? Or do you have other intentions...?'

Lu Wubing chuckled and said in a deep voice, "It's good that you're here. Within seven days, there will be no requirement for your internal strength to increase, but everyone's swordsmanship must be improved to the proficiency level."

Senior Sister Xiaolan, if you disciples cannot improve your swordsmanship to the highest level, you will be considered unqualified.

"what?"

As soon as Lu Wubing uttered these words.

The two hundred disciples were all in an uproar.

The young disciples, who were only ten years old, had no idea of ​​the difficulties involved and cheered with joy.

They shouted, "Young Master is mighty!"

Ouyang Lan was startled, but quickly regained her composure.

Anyway, she no longer finds anything her junior brother says or does strange.

He said it could help his swordsmanship reach the "Great Perfection" level, so it must be true.

A little over a month ago, I never imagined that I could master the [Yaoguang Sword Technique] from the proficient level to the peak of proficiency. It felt like a dream.

If such a dream can come true, what else wouldn't you dare to dream of?

Lin Wenjing, however, trembled upon hearing this, wondering if she hadn't slept and had misheard.

Some of those Jingxin Hall disciples are not even proficient in swordsmanship; they have only recently entered the sect. How could they possibly master swordsmanship to the level of proficiency?

……

I caught a bit of a cold, took some medicine, and now my head feels heavy. I'm even dozing off while writing this. Please bear with it; it's not very good, so please forgive me.

Once I'm fully recovered and full of energy, I'll definitely get back into shape.

(End of this chapter)