In Emei, start by obtaining golden attributes.

Chapter 126 The more beautiful a woman is, the more likely she is to lie.

Inside the room, after nearly two hours of cultivation, Gu Shaoan was able to completely gather all his true essence into his dantian without revealing his aura.

After stepping out of the house, Gu Shaoan's figure drifted into the bamboo forest like a wisp of blue-white smoke melting into the evening breeze.

At this moment, Gu Shaoan did not use the bamboo poles for leverage to move around like many masters of light-body skills, nor did he need to land on rocks or the ground.

He lightly touched the drooping bamboo branches and tender tips, or the fluttering withered bamboo leaves, with his feet moving away only after a very slight touch.

Each touch is as light as a dragonfly skimming the water, yet so precise it's exquisite, as if it can clearly predict the trajectory of every wisp of wind and the rhythm of every leaf.

The delicate bamboo leaves or twigs that bore his weight only bent slightly in an arc that was almost imperceptible to the naked eye before returning to their original shape.

If Gu Shaoan's "Nine Shadows of Spiral" technique, which he displayed in front of Abbess Miejue and others, was as fast as a ghost, then...

Now, when he is alone, Gu Shaoan's light-footed movements reveal a gentle, subtle, and ethereal quality, like a spring breeze in February.

As the bamboo brushed past his right hand, the leaves scattered upon landing, leaving Gu Shaoan with a vibrant green bamboo in his hand.

With the green bamboo in hand, without any preparatory movements, Gu Shaoan turned his wrist with remarkable ease, precisely mobilizing the viscous, concentrated true essence within his body, which flowed along the meridians into the green bamboo in his hand.

As a pale golden halo appeared on the surface of the green bamboo, the sword moves of the "Sunset Sword Technique" were practiced one by one with the green bamboo in his hand.

The sword moves flowed like a gazelle leaping from a cliff, leaving no trace. Yet, within the sword shadows, there was also a hint of the setting sun in the sky. Though the twilight was deep, there was a sharp, hidden edge.

After a short while, once Gu Shaoan had used all of the "Sunset Subtraction" techniques, he gently pushed his wrist forward, and one end of the bamboo silently touched a stalk of green bamboo about the size of a bowl in front of him.

"laugh!"

A soft sound rang out, and the surface of the incredibly tough green bamboo in front of Gu Shaoan was gently touched by one end of the bamboo. A small amount of energy quietly pierced through it, leaving a hole the size of a grain of rice. The remaining energy continued to streak through the air and rush towards another green bamboo behind.

"Sizzle! Sizzle! Sizzle! Sizzle..."

A series of soft, piercing sounds rang out almost simultaneously. The concentrated energy, as if piercing through thin paper, passed through dozens of green bamboos of varying sizes along its path, until it accurately struck a dark, half-person-high rock about three zhang away from Gu Shaoan.

A tiny hole, the size of a grain of rice, was left on the rock.

With a single step, Gu Shaoan moved like the wind, instantly appearing beside the rocks.

Looking at the solidified small holes on the rocks, Gu Shaoan gently raised his right hand.

Just as Gu Shaoan's hand touched the small hole on the rock, several fine cracks appeared around the hole. Then, the small hole, which was originally no bigger than a grain of rice, spread with the cracks, and the scattered stones turned into a pit the size of a fist.

However, upon seeing this scene, Gu Shaoan showed no joy whatsoever; instead, he let out a soft sigh.

"It still failed!"

In the three years since then, Gu Shaoan has been able to achieve "gathering" of the three words "gather," "condense," and "connect" given by Sun Baifa.

Gather all the strength in your body into one force and unleash it.

However, in the past few months, we have been stuck on the issue of "condensation".

While the force may seem to be able to gather and concentrate, it can never truly "condense into a single point and reach the pinnacle."

Otherwise, when Gu Shaoan used the Eighteen Subduing Dragon Palms today, the palm print on the mountain wall should not have been two zhang long, but should have been condensed to the same size as Gu Shaoan's own palm.

"The timing was still not right."

Shaking his head, Gu Shaoan raised his hand and flicked it lightly. The green bamboo instantly pierced the ground like an arrow, then he turned and walked out of the bamboo forest.

As dusk settled, a thin mist, like smoke and fog, enveloped the back of Mount Emei, leaving only a sliver of crimson in the western sky, which gilded the verdant bamboo forest with a layer of molten gold.

After emerging from the bamboo forest, Gu Shaoan did not continue practicing other martial arts as usual. Instead, he sat on a cracked blue stone on the cliff.

Beside him was a small bamboo table, an old stove with a small fire, and a faint aroma of tea.

While enjoying tea, we admired the beautiful sunset and the stunning views from the vantage point.

Just then, two whooshing sounds rang out, but quickly stopped in front of Gu Shaoan.

"Alas~ Beauty cannot be retained forever. The rosy cheeks fade from the mirror and the flowers fall from the trees. In just a few months, when we haven't seen each other, Senior Brother no longer calls me Senior Sister when we are enjoying tea and admiring the scenery, and Junior Sister no longer calls me Junior Sister either."

"It seems that our relationship with our senior brother has become estranged."

The tone was plaintive, with a hint of weeping and lamentation.

Gu Shaoan found this amusing and turned his head away.

But Yang Yan's large eyes were already filled with tears, and coupled with her melancholy and beautiful face, she truly looked like she was weeping and pleading, a sight that evoked pity in me.

That's why people say the more beautiful a woman is, the more likely she is to lie.

Judging from Yang Yan's tone and expression, if outsiders saw her, they might really think that Gu Shaoan had done something heartless and cruel to Yang Yan, betraying the beauty.

Unable to resist, he turned around and tapped Yang Yan on the head.

"Alright, stop joking. The cups are ready. Pour some for yourself and your senior sister."

Having her carefully crafted emotions abruptly interrupted by Gu Shaoan, Yang Yan immediately pouted and let out a soft snort.

There was not a trace of the resentful look she had before.

It vividly demonstrates what it means to change one's face faster than turning one's back.

Zhou Zhiruo stood to the side as always, watching the two bicker, her eyes crinkling with a gentle and charming smile.

Before Yang Yan and Zhou Zhiruo arrived, the aroma of tea filled the air, and the mountain breeze was soothing.

The aroma of tea still wafted through the air after the two women arrived, but the mountain breeze now carried the fragrance of the two women themselves.

Although it lacks the intense fragrance of orchids and musk, it excels in its understated elegance and familiarity.

With a beautiful woman by my side, mountains and rivers before me, and breathtaking scenery stretching across the sky.

At this moment, as Gu Shaoan looked at the setting sun, he felt much more at peace, and his expression became unusually languid.

At this moment, as if she had noticed something, Yang Yan suddenly looked Gu Shaoan up and down a few times before moving closer to Zhou Zhiruo and saying, "Strange, why do I feel like Senior Brother is giving off a different vibe?"

Not only Yang Yan, but Zhou Zhiruo also noticed this just now.

"Yes, that's true. I feel that my junior brother seems to be more easygoing, not as tense as before."

Although the two were speaking softly, Gu Shaoan could hear them clearly even from dozens of feet away if he wanted to, without using his inner energy to transmit sound or conceal it.

Not to mention that Gu Shaoan was right next to them.

Gu Shaoan couldn't help but admire his children's keen observation and sharp reactions.

Gu Shaoan said, "Don't overthink it. It's just a change in mindset brought about by the improvement in strength."

Because of his foresight, Gu Shaoan knew what would happen in the martial arts world and the world in the coming period, and he also knew what the Emei Sect would face next.

Ignorance breeds fearlessness.

Knowing too much about the future isn't necessarily a good thing.

Especially when one's own strength is insufficient.

Therefore, from the moment he entered Emei, Gu Shaoan had a heavy burden on his heart, forcing him to cultivate day and night without stopping, as if he wanted to make one day count as two.

As Gu Shaoan began to genuinely acknowledge and accept his relationship with Abbess Miejue, and as he developed a sense of belonging to the Emei Sect because of Abbess Miejue and Zhou Zhiruo, the string of "urgency" in his heart tightened even more.

However, years of almost insane asceticism have finally yielded results today.

With his Qi Condensation Formation strength, the "Round and Smooth" level of the Eighteen Subduing Dragon Palms, the Nine Spiral Shadows, and other martial arts, as well as improvements in various aspects, Gu Shaoan had gained a certain degree of confidence in his success.

Even though Gu Shaoan knew that his current strength in the martial arts world might only be considered first-rate, and he was still some distance away from top masters like Sun Baifa.

However, this does not mean that he is completely powerless when facing these top experts. Although his pursuit of strength has not diminished in the slightest, the confidence that strength brings has allowed Gu Shaoan to relax the tense nerves in his heart.

This allows Gu Shaoan to have the leisure time to savor the evening breeze in the mountains while enjoying tea, stealing a moment of peace from his busy schedule.

"Returning to nature" is the most fitting description of Gu Shaoan's state of mind at this moment.

It was also because of this change in mindset that Gu Shaoan was able to spare some time to calmly savor the evening breeze in the mountains, to feel the laughter and anger of those around him, and to become a more complete or true "self".

As the last rays of the setting sun completely disappeared behind the majestic mountains, only the pale blue and grayish-purple of twilight remained between heaven and earth. A gentle mountain breeze carried the unique damp coolness of the bamboo forest and the aroma of tea.

Gu Shaoan picked up the teapot again, his posture casual and relaxed, and refilled Yang Yan and Zhou Zhiruo's cups with tea.

The rising steam enveloped his handsome profile, softening the cool, sharp features between his brows as the twilight deepened, revealing a gentler side, yet also a vibrant energy and radiant spirit.

This scene is absolutely captivating.

The scenery was enchanting, the wind was enchanting, but what truly captivated Zhou Zhiruo and Yang Yan was the person before them.

at the same time.

Beijing.

Located twenty miles east of the city, the Hulong Villa's front hall is brightly lit and remains majestic, while the vast Yingxin Lake in the backyard presents a completely different scene.

The lake surface was as smooth as a mirror, reflecting the gradually deepening starry sky and the twinkling lights high above the manor.

Inside the ink-black jade corridor right next to the lake, a graceful figure casually sat on a bench, her eyes lowered.

If Gu Shaoan or Zhou Zhiruo were here, Yang Yan would surely recognize from their eyes that this person was Shangguan Haitang, whom she met in Linhai Town three years ago.

Three years have passed without leaving any trace of vicissitudes on her. Instead, like the most skilled jade craftsman, they have polished her already exceptionally beautiful features, making them even clearer and more dazzling.

After three years of growth and experience, Shangguan Haitang's eyes have lost some of the impetuousness and sharpness she had when she first started out, becoming more profound, calm, and insightful.

His eyes, though seemingly unassuming, revealed only a clear and insightful wisdom and the unintentional air of authority of a superior.

Even now, dressed in men's clothing, with a bare face, sitting quietly by this desolate lakeside, she would still outshine the bright moon.

Just then, a figure slowly approached.

Perhaps Shangguan Haitang was too lost in thought, because she didn't even notice the person who had walked up behind her.

"What are you thinking about so intently?"

It wasn't until a slightly deep voice reached her ears that Shangguan Haitang, whose mind had been somewhat blank, came back to her senses.

He turned around abruptly and saw a black python robe with four claws.

The python robe is embroidered with dragon and cloud patterns in black and gold thread, which is luxurious yet understated, and has a subtle shimmering effect under the light from the surrounding lanterns.

Moving my gaze upwards, I came into view a square-faced man with an air of righteousness.

Although age had left many crow's feet around the man's eyes, he did not look old at all; instead, he gained a sense of authority and sharpness.

His eyebrows were like painted brushes, slanting upwards into his temples, which made him look even more heroic. His jawline was well-defined, and he had a short beard that was meticulously trimmed.

What is most striking about this person is his eyes. Although they are not large, they are full of inner light, observing the situation thousands of miles away. There is not a ripple in his eyes, calm and deep like an ancient cold pool. Occasionally, a sharp glint flashes across his eyes, as if he has a sharp insight into people's hearts, as well as an absolute confidence and control over everything.

It was Zhu Wushi, the Iron-Blooded Marquis, who was the master of the Dragon Guard Manor and second only to the emperor in the current court.

Upon seeing Zhu Wushi's sudden arrival, Shangguan Haitang immediately stood up and bowed, saying, "Godfather."

Zhu Wushi lowered his eyes, took the wine pot from Shangguan Haitang's hand, twitched his nose slightly, and smiled.

"I had no idea when you learned to drink alcohol."

Shangguan Haitang laughed and said, "I only started trying it about half a year ago, and I only dared to take a few sips before using my internal energy to neutralize the effects of the alcohol."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Wushi continued, "If you wish to drink, the manor has many fine wines from the Western Regions bestowed by the Emperor. This inferior wine is not suitable for you."

Shangguan Haitang replied with a smile, "What's the fun in drinking wine if it's not strong?"

As she spoke, a thought flashed through Shangguan Haitang's mind, and she couldn't help but recall the image of that cunning fellow by the dilapidated ship three years ago, the way he was burned by the first sip of strong liquor. A smile involuntarily crept onto her lips.

Noticing Shangguan Haitang's distraction, Zhu Wushi said with a half-smile, "It seems that what you drank was more than just wine."

Upon hearing Zhu Wushi's words, Shangguan Haitang responded naturally, "I did think of an interesting person I met when I was traveling the martial world."

Zhu Wushi became interested: "Someone who can make you find something interesting must be no ordinary person."

Shangguan Haitang asked, "Indeed, he is no ordinary person."

Immediately, taking advantage of the opportunity, Shangguan Haitang recounted what had happened in Linhai Town.

When Zhu Wushi learned that Gu Shaoan, who was only a young boy at the time, was able to kill a martial artist who had returned to the Innate Realm in a single exchange with a hundred-pound sword, his eyes flashed.

After Shangguan Haitang finished speaking, Zhu Wushi nodded and said, "At the age of 18, you were able to enter the stage of returning to the innate state, and your inner strength transformed into true qi. In addition, the boy you just mentioned, who is about the same age as you, has reached the level of 'effortless mastery' in terms of strength control."

"What's even more remarkable is that, although this young man is not old, he is quite experienced in his actions and his mind is also quite mature."

"I never expected that the Emei Sect would produce such a prodigy as its disciple."

When he spoke the last sentence, Zhu Wushi lowered his eyes, his gaze unfathomable, making it impossible to tell what he was thinking.

At this moment, Shangguan Haitang seemed to have thought of something and suddenly said, "In recent years, as Cao Cao's Eastern Depot has grown stronger, he has also used his power to deceive his superiors and harm loyal officials. Although my elder brother and Yidao have returned, the four teams trained by my adoptive father are still lacking the number one leader of the 'Huang' team."

"Both Big Brother and Yi Dao achieved the Return to the Innate Realm at a young age, but Gu Shaoan was able to reach this level at the age of 12. His talent is so high that it is rare to see him in the entire martial arts world."

"Given his kind nature and his descent from a prestigious sect like the Emei Sect, what do you think about having him serve as the number one 'Huang' spy at the Dragon Guard Manor?"

Upon hearing what Shangguan Haitang said, Zhu Wushi did not give a direct reply.

"If what you say is true, this Gu Shaoan can indeed be called a young prodigy, but unfortunately, he is the personal disciple of the Emei Sect's Miejue."

Shangguan Haitang asked in confusion, "Emei is a prestigious and righteous sect. Although the people in the sect are quite tough when they encounter problems, they are much better than many people who seek fame and fortune. It is said that Abbess Miejue of the Emei sect has also successfully reached the Qi Condensation stage in her internal energy cultivation, which is not considered weak among second-rate forces."

Zhu Wushi said calmly, "You should already know about the matter concerning the Six Major Sects and the Ming Cult, right?"

Shangguan Haitang nodded and said, "At the beginning of last month, the six major sects reached a consensus within the Kongtong Sect and decided to gather the strength of the six major sects to encircle the Ming Cult in September. In May, the leaders of the six major sects will discuss the attack on the Ming Cult in Wudang."

After speaking, Shangguan Haitang seemed to realize something and asked, "Does Godfather think that the six major sects' siege of the Ming Cult was a failure?"

Zhu Wushi nodded slightly: "Not bad!"

This response, on the contrary, only increased Shangguan Haitang's doubts.

"Haitang remembers her adoptive father saying that Yang Dingtian was very talented. Before he was fifty, he had already successfully reached the realm of Condensing Yuan into Gang. With the help of the 'Nine Hands of the Great Heaven' and the 'Great Shift of the Universe', his strength was exceptionally powerful. Even the Shaolin monk Du'e, a senior monk of the Du generation, was injured by him and lost an eye. Therefore, he sat in meditation for thirty years to seek revenge. Among all the masters who have reached the Condensing Yuan into Gang, he is not a weak one."

“According to the information we’ve gathered at Dragon Guard Manor, Yang Dingtian has been missing for ten years. Without Yang Dingtian in charge, the Ming Cult has fallen apart. Yang Xiao, the strongest among them, only just entered the Qi Condensation Realm last year. How could the six major sects have failed in their siege of the Ming Cult this time?”

Zhu Wushi said softly, "If it were just the Ming Cult as it is now, it would indeed be unable to withstand the six major sects."

"But things cannot be judged by appearances alone. The siege of the Ming Cult by the six major sects this time is not so simple."

"Why do you think the Ming Cult would provoke the six major sects simultaneously over three years for no apparent reason?"

Over the years, Shangguan Haitang, who was entrusted with important responsibilities by Zhu Wushi in the capital, naturally shed not only her naivety in appearance, but also in her way of thinking.

Previously, since it was none of her business, Shangguan Haitang hadn't investigated the matter in detail.

But as soon as Zhu Wushi uttered those words, Shangguan Haitang's thoughts raced, and she quickly realized something was wrong.

"Does Godfather mean that the conflict between the Six Major Sects and the Ming Cult in recent years has been orchestrated by someone behind the scenes?"

　Because we need to burn paper money, the next chapter will be posted a little later, probably around 9 or 10 o'clock!
　　
　
(End of this chapter)