Becoming a Saint Starting with the Chasing Wind Leg Technique

Chapter 190 Beheading and Public Display: The True Opportunity

Tianshui City, West Gate.

The afterglow of the setting sun bathed the city tower in a dark gold hue, illuminating the growing crowds that had gathered beneath the city gate.

Although the bloody battle had just ended and the air was still filled with the smell of gunpowder and blood, the joy of surviving the ordeal and the gratitude to the "Young Hero Song" who saved the city made the people forget their fatigue and pain, and they spontaneously gathered near the city gate, eagerly waiting.

"Has Young Master Song returned?"

"Not yet, I heard they've gone to hunt down that damned traitor!"

"Young Master Song is truly a god! Those ruthless killers are like slicing melons and vegetables in his hands!"

"Yes, thanks to Young Hero Song, otherwise our whole family would be finished—"

"That damned traitor Sheng Huaixu! If it weren't for him, the city gates wouldn't have almost been opened! That dog deserves to be torn to pieces!"

"I heard he used to be a great hero of the Pingtian Sect? Bah! He's worse than a pig or a dog!"

"Young Master Song, you must kill him!"

"Yes! Kill him! Avenge our dead fellow villagers!"

The crowd was abuzz with discussion, some expressing boundless gratitude and respect for Song Jing, while others harbored deep hatred for the traitor Sheng Huaixu.

Many people lost loved ones and homes in the previous turmoil, and this hatred burns like a raging fire.

Just then, someone with sharp eyes pointed to the end of the official road in the distance and exclaimed, "Look! Someone's coming!"

Everyone looked over and saw a gray figure walking slowly along the official road toward the city gate under the setting sun.

He was tall and straight, with a steady gait, and seemed to be carrying something in his hand.

As the figure drew closer, those with sharp eyes finally saw what was in his hand—a bloody human head!

It was casually held in someone's hand by its hair bun, swaying slightly as they walked.

The human head was contorted, its eyes wide open, filled with extreme fear, resentment, and disbelief—it died with its eyes wide open!

Many city guards and Pingtianmen disciples recognized that face; it was none other than the traitor Sheng Huaixu!

"It's Young Master Song!"

"Young Master Song is back! In his hand—is the head of that scoundrel Sheng Huaixu!"

"My God! Young Hero Song really killed that traitor!"

"Well done! Well done!"

After a brief silence, thunderous cheers and roars erupted from the crowd!

"Young Master Song is truly awe-inspiring!"

"We've avenged our fallen brothers!"

"That scoundrel finally got what he deserved! Good riddance! He deserved to die!"

"Young Master Song not only saved the entire city, but also personally killed that most despicable traitor! He is a great benefactor of our Tianshui City!"

"Young Master Song! Young Master Song! Young Master Song!"

It's unclear who started the chant, but soon, tens of thousands of civilians, surviving city guards, and warriors inside and outside the city gates joined in the shout.

The deafening roar was filled with the most sincere gratitude, the most fervent support, and the exhilarating joy of finally getting revenge!

Many people were so moved that tears welled up in their eyes, and they bowed deeply in Song Jing's direction, some even kneeling down.

Carrying Sheng Huaixu's head, which remained unclosed in death, Song Jing calmly passed through the city gate amidst the cheers and angry curses of thousands of people calling him a traitor, and walked step by step up the city wall.

The setting sun cast its golden rays upon him, gilding his silhouette. The severed head in his hand, though gruesome,...

In the eyes of the public, however, it was a symbol of justice and a hero's achievement!

Chen Yanzhou, He Tianxiong, Nie Feng, Li Lingshuang, Bai Yunfei, Nie Shuli, Master Li, and others had already arrived at the city gate upon hearing the news.

When they saw Song Jingzhen return carrying Sheng Huaixu's head, they were first stunned, then their faces lit up with immense joy and excitement!

"Young Hero Song!" Chen Yanzhou was the first to step forward. Looking at the twisted head, this battle-hardened, iron-willed captain couldn't help but have his eyes redden slightly, his voice choked with emotion. "Good! Good! Good! Well done! This scoundrel—deserved to die! Young Hero Song, you not only saved Tianshui City, but also personally slew this fiend for us, for our fallen brothers! On behalf of all of Tianshui City, I thank Young Hero Song!"

As he spoke, he actually bowed deeply to Song Jing.

He Tianxiong, Master Nie, and others quickly followed, their expressions excited.

"Commander Chen, you flatter me. Please rise." Song Jing stepped aside, casually tossing Sheng Huaixu's head on the ground, and calmly said, "This scoundrel betrayed the sect, colluded with evil cults, and harmed fellow disciples and civilians. Everyone has the right to kill him. I, Song, merely did what I should have done."

"Brother Song, you really are—" Nie Feng stared at Sheng Huaixu's still terrified head on the ground, then at Song Jing, whose expression was calm and whose aura seemed even more profound and deep than when he left. He was utterly shocked. How long had it been? Song Jing had not only killed Sheng Huaixu, but it seemed that—he had made further progress? This speed of cultivation was simply inhuman!

Supported by Li Ling Shuang, Bai Yunfei struggled forward and exclaimed excitedly, "Senior Brother Song! Well done! If this villain hadn't died, we fellow disciples would have been disgraced, and the souls of those who perished in Tianshui City would never find peace! Senior Brother has cleansed the sect of its filth for us; this is truly gratifying!"

Li Ling Shuang didn't speak, but just looked at Song Jing, her beautiful eyes sparkling with admiration.

Having personally beheaded the traitor and returned amidst the cheers of the people with his head in hand, this courage, this strength, this sense of responsibility made the gray figure in her heart appear even taller and more dazzling.

"Young Master Song, your righteousness is truly admirable!" Elder Master Nie stroked his beard and sighed deeply, his face full of satisfaction and praise. "Not only did you save the city from peril, but you also eradicated evil completely, personally slaying the ringleader and eliminating a great thorn in our side, thus enhancing the prestige of Tianshui City! Such a hero deserves a grand toast!"

The younger disciples, including Nie Shuli, looked at Song Jing with fervent admiration. In their hearts, Song Jing was already a legendary figure.

"Young Master Song," He Tianxiong wiped the tears from his eyes and said solemnly, "you have repeatedly performed unparalleled feats, saving the entire city from suffering and killing traitors to avenge the victims. Such great kindness and virtue will never be forgotten by the people of Tianshui City! I will certainly draft a memorial detailing your achievements and report it to the imperial court and Pingtianmen, requesting commendation for you!"

Song Jing shook his head slightly: "Lord He is too kind. As a disciple of the Pingtian Sect, it is my duty to protect the people and eliminate evil. I dare not accept credit. The most urgent task is to restore order as soon as possible, treat the wounded, and guard against possible retaliation from the Blood Lotus Sect."

Seeing that Song Jing had made such a great contribution, yet remained so calm and composed, neither arrogant nor impatient, everyone's respect for him grew even stronger.

"Young Master Song, rest assured, we will handle the city defenses and the aftermath." Chen Yanzhou nodded, then looked at the head on the ground, a cold glint in his eyes. "As for this traitor's head, it should be displayed at the city gate for three days as a warning to others, a tribute to the dead, and a way for all the people of the city to see the fate of traitors!"

"That's exactly right!" Everyone echoed in unison, feeling a sense of satisfaction.

Just as the crowd on the city wall was excited and rejoicing over Song Jing's execution of the traitor, no one noticed that in the shadows of the distant city tower, an inconspicuous figure silently watched everything, a glint of light flashing in his eyes, before quietly retreating.

Several days later, at Pingtianmen, the main hall of the peak.

Sect Master Lu Xuan sat high above, his face dignified, exuding authority without anger.

Below, Lu Jiutian stood bowing, reporting detailed intelligence about the Battle of Tianshui City that had just been transmitted through special channels.

"————That's how it happened. Song Jing, with his mid-stage Bone Forging cultivation, single-handedly killed seven Blood Lotus Sect Refining Realm experts amidst a vast army, including the two altar masters Tu Gang and Liu Wumei, both mid-stage Refining Realm experts, turning the tide and saving Tianshui City from imminent collapse."

Afterwards, he pursued the traitor Sheng Huaixu alone and killed him in five moves in the woods outside the city. He brought his head back to the city, and the people cheered. Lu Jiutian's voice was calm, but deep in his eyes was a hint of excitement and pride that he could not hide.

Lu Xuan listened quietly, his fingers tapping lightly on the back of the chair. His face showed little expression, but his eyes grew increasingly deep.

After a long silence, he slowly spoke: "Mid-stage Bone Forging, slaying seven Refining Souls, including two mid-stage ones—is this boy practicing the 'Mysterious Origin Heavy Water True Technique' from your Water Vein?"

"That's right." Lu Jiutian nodded. "According to the letter, this boy has already mastered the 'Mysterious Origin Heavy Water True Skill' to a minor level."

"Minor success—" Lu Xuan paused slightly as he tapped the back of the chair, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes. "This skill is obscure and difficult, requiring extremely high levels of physical constitution, comprehension, and temperament. It is already difficult to even get started. He has only been down the mountain for a little over a month, yet he has already achieved minor success."

It seems that this young man is not only exceptionally talented, but also possesses a superior temperament and will. What is even more remarkable is his sense of responsibility and chivalry.

Excellent, very good.

To receive such high praise from the sect leader is already extremely commendable. Lu Jiutian, reassured, pressed his advantage, saying, "Sect Leader, Song Jing has performed an extraordinary feat this time, saving the people of a city, slaying traitors and powerful enemies, and greatly enhancing the prestige of our Pingtian Sect. Such merit deserves a reward. According to sect rules, he should be richly rewarded!"

Lu Xuan nodded: "Merit must be rewarded, and transgressions must be punished; this is the foundation of a sect. Since he has made such a great contribution, he deserves a generous reward. In your opinion, how should he be rewarded?"

Lu Jiutian pondered for a moment and said, "Gold and silver, elixirs and divine weapons, this boy doesn't seem to be particularly enthusiastic about them."

He was skilled in spear techniques and had inherited the "Mysterious Origin Heavy Water True Skill," so his foundation was already established. What he lacked was a more advanced spear technique inheritance and guidance from a master.

Ordinary rewards are merely icing on the cake.

If one can encounter a wise master and learn the true essence of spear techniques, it will be of immeasurable benefit to improving one's combat strength and even one's future path in martial arts.

Upon hearing this, Lu Xuanyi's brows furrowed almost imperceptibly: "A more advanced spear technique inheritance? Guidance from a renowned master? You mean—that one from the back mountain?"

"Exactly," Lu Jiutian said in a deep voice. "Elder Jinghong's spear technique is divine. Twenty years ago, he was already famous throughout Hexi Road for his Jinghong Spear. If Song Jing could receive some guidance from him, or even be taken under his wing, it would undoubtedly be an immense opportunity!"

Lu Xuan shook his head and sighed, "Jiutian, you should know Uncle Jinghong's temper. He has already made it clear that he will no longer accept disciples. Over the years, countless talented young people have wanted to become his disciples, or even just ask him for a single piece of guidance, but they have all been turned away. Even my two good-for-nothing disciples—"

He paused, then gave an example: "My youngest disciple, Xiao Chen, is only nineteen years old. He has already reached the pinnacle of his cultivation, and his 'Breaking Army Spear Technique' has reached its peak. He is preparing to challenge for a place among the top ten true disciples. He once went to the back mountain to seek instruction, but his master dismissed him with the words, 'Your spear technique is too forceful and lacks agility; it's too much like a craftsman.'"

"And then there's my second disciple, Lin Jingyun. He broke through the Refining Realm at twenty-five, and now at thirty-two, he's reached the Marrow Refining Realm, ranking among the Heavenly Rank disciples. His 'Flowing Cloud Spear Technique' is incredibly skillful, having reached its peak over many years, and he's currently ranked eighth among the Ten Great Disciples. He thought he had grasped the essence of the spear technique's agility and versatility, so he went to seek instruction. However, his master said he only possessed the form but not the spirit, remaining superficial," and still failed to meet his standards."

Lu Xuanyi looked at Lu Jiutian and slowly said, "These two are among the top in the younger generation when it comes to spear skills, yet they still don't meet the standards of our senior uncle."

Although Song Jing has made great contributions and possesses both talent and temperament, he is still young and his cultivation is still shallow. His spear skills are probably even less likely to catch the eye of his master.

Sending him there would only displease your martial uncle and waste an opportunity. It would be far more practical to bestow upon him rare elixirs, divine weapons, or grant him access to a higher level of the armory.

Lu Jiutian insisted, "Sect Master, Song Jing is different from Xiao Chen and Lin Jingyun. He cultivates the 'Mysterious Origin Heavy Water True Skill,' which emphasizes intention over form. The true qi is condensed and heavy, and changes are made at will. It may have something in common with the skill that Elder Jinghong cultivated in his early years."

This young man is capable of defeating strong opponents with the weak, repeatedly slaying formidable foe. His combat talent, adaptability, and even his understanding and application of marksmanship are far beyond that of ordinary geniuses. Observing his actions, I see unwavering determination and exceptional comprehension; perhaps—there is a sliver of a chance he might gain the favor of Elder Jinghong.”

He paused, then spoke earnestly, "Sect Master, while elixirs and divine weapons can certainly help him improve his cultivation in the short term, they are ultimately external things. However, a suitable, profound spear technique, and guidance from a peerless master, can benefit him for a lifetime, causing a qualitative leap in his combat power. I am not unaware that Elder Jinghong has extremely high standards, but—Song Jing is worth a try! If he fails, we can bestow other rewards upon him later. But if he succeeds—for our Pingtian Sect, we may gain another future master of the spear!"

Lu Xuanyi remained silent for a moment, then tapped the back of the chair lightly with his fingers again, as if weighing his options.

Lu Jiutian's words made sense; Song Jing's performance was indeed amazing, and perhaps he truly possessed a unique quality.

Moreover, if the reward for such a great achievement is too ordinary, it would seem that the sect is treating its meritorious officials poorly.

"Fine," Lu Xuanyi finally spoke. "Since you insist, then so be it. I will write a letter, and you may send..."

The letter, along with the reward pills, was sent to Tianshui City and given to Song Jing. It explained that he was being given an opportunity to meet his Uncle-Master Jinghong. However, it was to be made clear beforehand that this was a one-time opportunity, and whether he could seize it depended entirely on his own fate. If his Uncle-Master didn't approve, no one could force him; another reward would be given at that time.

"Thank you, Sect Master!" Lu Jiutian was overjoyed and quickly bowed in thanks.

He knew that this was the greatest support the sect leader could offer.

Elder Jinghong held a transcendent position; even the sect leader could not command him to accept disciples.

Giving me a chance to pay my respects is already an exception.

"However," Lu Xuanyi added, "this matter needs to be handled as soon as possible. The Blood Lotus Sect has suffered heavy losses this time, especially the Tenth Elder, Li Wujiu, who is said to be vengeful and ruthless."

He will not let the matter rest after he has killed two of his most capable leaders in Tianshui City.

Although pressure from the prefectural government and the threat of experts from our sect being dispatched might deter him from a full-scale invasion for the time being, covert retaliation, especially an assassination attempt on Song Jing, is highly likely. We should urge Song Jing to return to the mountain as soon as possible. Firstly, to receive rewards and attempt opportunities; secondly, it's always safer within the mountain gates than outside.”

"Disciple understands!" Lu Jiutian's expression turned solemn as he solemnly replied.

Tianshui City, Yuelai Inn, the courtyard where Song Jing is temporarily staying.

After breaking through to the late stage of Bone Forging, Song Jing has not relaxed these past few days. On one hand, he is consolidating his cultivation and getting used to his increased power, and on the other hand, he is studying several miscellaneous secret manuals, poison techniques, and hidden weapon techniques that he obtained from Liu Wumei and Sheng Huaixu.

Even without practicing it, understanding its principles can help one prepare for future enemies.

At the same time, he also learned more about the Blood Lotus Sect from Chen Yanzhou and He Tianxiong, especially the information about the Tenth Elder Li Wujiu, which made him even more vigilant.

That day, he was practicing his spear techniques in the courtyard, perfectly integrating the power and speed he had gained after his breakthrough into the "Wildfire Spear Technique" and his self-created "Mysterious Water Spear Curtain." The spear shadows were numerous, the water shimmering, sometimes like a wildfire, explosive and swift; sometimes like a gentle drizzle, penetrating everywhere; sometimes as heavy as a mountain, crushing the void. His spear technique, under the dual impetus of practical combat and breakthrough, had subtly improved once again.

Suddenly, there was a knock on the door outside the courtyard, accompanied by an unfamiliar but strong voice: "Is Junior Brother Song Jing here?"

Elder Lu brought a token and a message.

Song Jing sheathed his spear and stood still, his breathing steady.

He had already sensed someone approaching, and the aura was pure, carrying the unique charm of the Pingtianmen martial arts.

Upon opening the courtyard gate, a lean and wiry man of about thirty years old stood outside, dressed in the robes of an inner disciple of the Pingtian Sect, with a sword at his waist. His eyes were bright, and his aura was steady, clearly indicating that he possessed the cultivation level of the Refining Realm.

Upon seeing Song Jing, a hint of curiosity and scrutiny flashed in his eyes, but it quickly turned into solemnity. He clasped his hands and said, "Is it Junior Brother Song Jing in person? I am Chen Feng, and I have come to deliver a message on the orders of Elder Lu Jiutian."

"Greetings, Senior Brother Chen. I am Song Jing. Please come in." Song Jing stepped aside to let him into the courtyard.

The two sat down, and Chen Feng, without saying much, took out a letter sealed with sealing wax and a small jade bottle, and placed them on the table.

He said solemnly, "Junior Brother Song, you turned the tide in Tianshui City, slaying the evil disciples and personally killing the traitors, making a great contribution. The sect is already aware of this. Elder Lu argued strongly for you, and the sect leader also highly praises you. This is a letter personally written by the sect leader, along with a bottle of 'Jade Marrow Pills,' which has miraculous effects on tempering bones and solidifying the foundation for those in the Bone Forging Realm."

Song Jing took the letter and the jade bottle, but did not look at them immediately. Instead, he waited for what would follow.

He knew that Chen Feng's personal visit was not solely for delivering a message and medicine.

As expected, Chen Feng continued, "Besides that, Elder Lu secured an incredible opportunity for you." He paused, a hint of envy and solemnity in his eyes, "In the forbidden area of ​​the back mountain lives a senior, whose Daoist name is Jinghong. He is one of the few remaining Supreme Elders of our Pingtian Sect, and also the Sect Master's uncle."

Song Jing's heart stirred, and he listened quietly.

"Elder Jinghong's cultivation is extraordinary. Twenty years ago, he was already a peerless master of the Blood Exchange Realm! His Jinghong Lueying Spear is famous throughout Hexi Road and rarely encounters an opponent!"

Back when he was in the Marrow Refining Realm, he once used a long spear to defeat ten evil masters of the same realm in the Hexi Road, making the evil and heretical sects tremble with fear and establishing the great reputation of our Pingtian Sect in the Hexi Road!

His marksmanship was exceptionally refined, and his eye for detail was renowned.

Chen Feng spoke with utmost respect, then changed the subject and sighed, "It's a pity that Elder Jinghong has already made it clear that he will no longer accept disciples. Over the years, countless exceptionally talented disciples have tried to become his disciples and seek even a few words of guidance, but all have returned empty-handed."

Even my two most outstanding spear prodigies of our Pingtian Sect, Senior Brother Xiao Chen, who at nineteen years old had perfected his internal energy cultivation and mastered the "Breaking Army Spear Technique," and Senior Brother Lin Jingyun, who at thirty-two years old had advanced to the Marrow Refining stage, ranked eighth among the Ten Great True Disciples, and whose "Flowing Cloud Spear Technique" had reached its pinnacle, had both sought his guidance, but were politely refused by the elders on the grounds that they were "insufficient in their training" and "had not grasped the true essence of the spear technique."

He looked at Song Jing, his tone becoming extremely serious: "Elder Lu admires Junior Brother's talent and character, and is even more grateful for Junior Brother's great contributions. He went to great lengths to plead with the Sect Master, which finally secured an opportunity for Junior Brother to pay homage to Elder Jinghong."

The sect leader also mentioned this in his letter. But the opportunity only comes once!

Whether Elder Jinghong is willing to offer guidance, or even accept you as a disciple, depends entirely on your own fortune and destiny, Junior Brother. Elder Lu asked me to tell you that this opportunity is hard-won, and I hope you will seize it. Even if it doesn't work out, don't force it or become discouraged; the sect will reward you in other ways.”

Upon hearing this, Song Jing's heart was stirred. The Blood Exchange Realm!

That's a higher realm than the Marrow Refining Realm, and it's considered one of the top realms in the entire Yunxiu Prefecture!

He is also an unparalleled master of guns!

If one could receive guidance from him, even just a move or two, it would undoubtedly bring immeasurable benefits to one's marksmanship training!

Elder Lu's favor is far too great.

"Elder Lu's kindness is deeply appreciated by Song Jing." Song Jing rose and bowed solemnly to Chen Feng and also to Lu Jiutian in the void. "Song Jing will do his utmost to seize this opportunity and will not dare to disappoint Elder Lu and the sect's expectations. However—" He paused and asked, "Senior Brother Chen, is there anything Elder Jinghong is reluctant to discuss? What should I be mindful of when paying my respects?"

Seeing that Song Jing was not overwhelmed by this sudden opportunity, but instead calmly inquired about the details, Chen Feng nodded inwardly and said, "Elder Jinghong is proud and aloof, dislikes worldly etiquette, and despises those who flatter and opportunistic. When you go, Junior Brother, you only need to stay true to yourself and treat him with sincerity."

The elders value talent, character, and especially a pure heart for the way of the spear. As for anything else, I, your elder brother, know nothing more.

"Thank you for your guidance, Senior Brother Chen," Song Jing said again.

"Junior brother, there's no need to be so polite." Chen Feng waved his hand and said seriously, "In addition, Elder Lu asked me to remind you that Li Wujiu, the tenth elder of the Blood Lotus Sect, is a vengeful person. You killed two of his capable subordinates, so he will definitely not let it go."

Although he dares not launch a full-scale invasion for the time being due to pressure from the prefectural city and my sect, we must guard against his potential assassination attempts. The sect leader's intention is for you to finish dealing with the affairs of Tianshui City as soon as possible, and then return to the mountain gate with me. Firstly, to receive your rewards and try your luck; secondly, the mountain gate is ultimately much safer.

Song Jing nodded; he had long harbored this intention. Staying in Tianshui City would certainly help Chen Yanzhou and the others alleviate some of the pressure, but it would also bring danger to this place.

Returning to the sect and improving his strength is the right thing to do. Besides, he is indeed very tempted by Elder Jinghong's opportunity.

"I understand. Please wait here for a couple of days, Senior Brother Chen. I will take care of some trivial matters and then return to the mountain with you."

"good!"

After seeing Chen Feng off, Song Jing opened the letter from Sect Master Lu Xuanyi. In addition to words of praise, it did mention Elder Jinghong of the back mountain and gave him an opportunity to pay his respects.

The letter was written in a gentle tone, but it also pointed out that such opportunities are rare and depend entirely on one's own efforts.

Setting down the letter, Song Jing held the bottle of "Jade Marrow Pill" in his hand, his gaze fixed on the direction of Pingtian Gate. In his eyes, there was expectation, solemnity, and an indomitable spirit.

"Elder Jinghong—Blood Exchange Realm, Jinghong Lueying Spear—" he muttered to himself, "No matter what, I have to give it a try."

The path of marksmanship is ultimately different when guided by someone versus when explored alone.

He carefully put away the jade bottle and the letter, having already made up his mind.

The matter in Tianshui City is resolved; the traitor has been executed, and the crisis is temporarily over.

Next, it's time to return to the sect, digest what we've learned in this battle, and face that legendary spear master.

As for the Blood Lotus Sect, the threat from the Tenth Elder Li Wujiu—a cold glint flashed in Song Jing's eyes.

there is always a solution to a problem.

If you are strong enough, what is there to fear from demons and monsters?

He believed that when he returned from the sect, he would face all challenges with an even stronger presence.

The test from Elder Jinghong was the first major hurdle he needed to overcome on his path of martial arts.

Guided by Chen Feng, a disciple from the prefectural city, they safely returned to the outer gate of Pingtian Gate in Yunxiu Prefecture, to Bibo Peak, where the water vein is located.

As soon as he stepped into the territory of Bibo Peak, he felt an atmosphere completely different from when he left.