Wuxia: Start with max-level Nine Yang Divine Skill

Chapter 227 It's a pity we won't get to see Officer Li display his unparalleled swordsmanship today (5k4)

The Seven Stars Linked Fortresses of Jiangnan are the leaders of the outlaws in the Jiangnan waterways. They wield immense power, and few martial arts forces dare not befriend them.

This once-every-five-year rotation of the chief dock master is a major event in the dock, and those invited often bring their relatives and family members to show their respect.

Looking around, under the colorful canopy, there were many women adorned with pearls and jade, their clothes fragrant and their hair elegant. Among them were quite a few beautiful women with different temperaments. According to Gong Xiaoshang's later introduction, several of them were female knights or ladies with a reputation for chivalry or beauty in the martial arts world of Jiangnan.

For example, Liu, the widow of the Beggar Clan's elder who had passed on his teachings, whom he had met a couple of days ago, was among them. She was being talked to by Madam Zhu to relieve her sorrow.

Given her status and appearance, she was rather inconspicuous among these women.

A thought flashed through Li Fu's mind.

According to Zhu Tongzhou and Gong Xiaoshang, the notorious thief targeted women of high reputation and good looks, and acted arrogantly, almost provocatively.

This grand gathering at Seven Star Linked Fortress has brought together almost all the prominent figures in the Jiangnan martial arts world, along with their families and women. Among them, there are probably quite a few women who fit the villain's target.

Moreover, according to the rules, this round of duels is not completed in one day. In order to ensure fairness, the winner must rest and recuperate after each round of duels, and then the next round of competition will be held three days later.

Therefore, the entire competition will last for three days, and all invited important guests will be accommodated by the host family, Zhu Family Village, and stay overnight.

"Over three days—numerous figures from the martial arts world gathered, the defenses appeared tight, but in reality, the people were a mixed bunch, each with their own agendas—"

Li Fuxin thought to himself.

"That villain was known for his unbridled and audacious behavior, and he was also highly skilled in martial arts."

If he were to hear that so many innocent women, perfectly suited to his goals, had gathered here and were planning to stay for several days—given his audacity, wouldn't he be unable to resist and dare to come?

This worry seems somewhat unnecessary. There are countless martial arts masters from Jiangnan here, and even the most audacious bandits wouldn't dare to act recklessly in this place at this time.

But it's really hard to say.

"The fact that someone can calmly wash himself off after raping and murdering someone is a testament to their depravity and self-confidence in martial arts; such people cannot be judged by common sense."

In the arena, Zhu Tinggao saw that the time had come and the guests had all taken their seats, so he got up and walked to the center of the martial arts arena.

He was tall and imposing, with a slight twitch of his rainbow beard. He surveyed the surroundings with a gleaming gaze, and the previously noisy pavilion gradually quieted down.

Fellow practitioners, fellow friends;

Zhu Tinggao's voice was as loud as a bell, clearly resounding throughout the entire venue.

"Today is the day of the five-yearly rotation competition for the chief dock master of the Seven Star Linked Docks in Jiangnan. I am deeply grateful for your presence as witnesses. I thank you in advance!"

He paused briefly, then continued.

"Our Seven Star Linked Fortress was founded more than eighty years ago by the four ancestors of the Shen, Kuang, Ouyang and Zhu families. After they had each established their own businesses in Jiangnan, they felt that if the fellow outlaws only knew how to fight among themselves, they would never amount to anything. So they swore a blood oath and joined forces to establish this fortress."

At that time, a rule was established that the position of chief of the fortress would be rotated among the four families every five years, with the most skilled martial artist among them taking the position. The position would be awarded based on merit, without favoritism or disruption of harmony!

"This rule has been passed down for over eighty years, through several generations. What is the secret behind it?"

Zhu Tinggao's gaze swept over the decorated pavilions where Shen Cang, Kuang Zhenyue, and Ouyang Jin's families were located.

"It is thanks to the friendship of our ancestors, the trust between us, and the unity of our four families that we have achieved our current status as a stronghold of the Seven Star Linked Fortresses in the Jiangnan bandit world."

Today's competition also follows the ancestral system, showcasing martial arts skills and determining the main and secondary players.

Including myself, I will certainly do my utmost to live up to the aspirations of my predecessors and the expectations of all my colleagues present!

His tone turned serious.

"However, remember to stop at the point of competition and determine a winner."

The four of us will benefit from unity, but will suffer from separation!

The victor deserves it; the loser must accept defeat wholeheartedly, without complaint, and certainly not let it damage relationships or become a laughingstock for friends who have traveled from afar!

As he finished speaking, Zhu Tinggao raised his voice, his gaze sharp as lightning, exuding an undeniable air of authority.

These words are reasonable and well-founded. They not only point out the origins and rules, but also emphasize unity and harmony, and set the tone for a fair competition where the winner accepts the loss.

Everyone present, regardless of whether they belonged to the Seven Star Linked Docks, nodded secretly.

Zhu Tinggao's ability to hold the position of chief of the fortress for five years is indeed due to his exceptional qualities.

Li Fu, who was also present, nodded secretly.

Zhu Tinggao's opening remarks were comprehensive, combining firmness and gentleness. He both established the rules and warmed up the atmosphere, befitting a powerful outlaw in charge of a region.

Then, Shen Cang, Kuang Zhenyue, and Ouyang Jin each said a few polite words.

Shen Cang's voice was strong and clear. He simply said, "What Master Zhu said is quite right."

Ouyang Jin then replied, fanning himself with a folding fan.

"Brother Zhu handles this matter well. I will follow your advice. I only hope that my fellow practitioners will not laugh at my shallow martial arts skills during the upcoming competition."

Kuang Zhenyue, with the loudest voice, declared sternly, his words echoing across the rooftops: "Everything will be decided by ability! I've waited five years since my last defeat, and this time I'm determined to fight back!"

Seeing that the atmosphere was right, Zhu Tinggao ordered someone to bring out a brocade box. After opening it, he took out a dark iron token with a seven-star interlocking pattern of water veins on it. It was the Seven-Star Token, the token of the chief of the main base.

He held the token high and announced it aloud.

"This is the Seven Star Token, the token of the Grand Fortress Master. Whoever possesses it after today's competition will be in charge of our Seven Star Linked Fortress for the next five years!"

After saying this, he solemnly put the token back into the brocade box and handed it over to someone for safekeeping.

Then, the emcee stepped forward and announced that the order of the competition would be determined by drawing lots.

A wooden box covered with a red cloth was carried up, its opening barely large enough for one hand to fit inside.

"This is the old rule: there are four lots, each engraved with one of the four characters 'A,' 'B,' 'C,' or 'D.' Those who draw 'A' or 'B' form a team and go first."

Those who draw C or D will be placed in another group and will compete later.

After a three-day rest, the victor will face off in the final showdown!

Zhu Tongzhou provided the introduction from the side.

Just as the person in charge of drawing lots placed the four lots into the box and shook it, Li Fu keenly noticed that Ouyang Jin's ear twitched almost imperceptibly, tilting towards the wooden box as if he were listening intently to something.

This movement was so subtle that it would have been almost impossible to notice if he hadn't had exceptional eyesight and been paying attention.

Li Fu's heart stirred, and he thought to himself.

"Locating locations by sound in gambling?"

This Lord Ouyang must have practiced diligently for this lottery.

It seems he's determined to get the position of chief of the fortress.

When it came time to draw lots, Ouyang Jin smiled and appeared calm and composed, but she was quick on her feet. After the four of them finished drawing lots, they returned to their original positions.

Shen Cang remained calm, casually revealing the fortune slip. Upon unfolding it, he saw the character "甲" (jia).

Next up was Zhu Tinggao, who also revealed his fortune slip, which read "Yi" (乙). Thus, the first match would be between Shen Cang and Zhu Tinggao!

A murmur of discussion immediately arose in the room.

These two are widely recognized as having the highest martial arts skills among the Seven Star Linked Fortresses in Jiangnan right now, and they actually met in the very first match!

Then Kuang Zhenyue casually spread his large, fan-like hand, forming a "丁" (ding) shape, snorted, and tossed the slip aside.

Finally, Ouyang Jin steadily held up a fortune stick, which was the character "丙" (Bing).

Thus, the order of the competition was determined: the first match was between Shen Cang and Zhu Tinggao; the second match was between Ouyang Jin and Kuang Zhenyue.

Zhu Tongzhou said from the side, "Master Ouyang drew a good lot. He will be able to mobilize resources and expand his power to a great extent. Which of our four families would not want to compete for it?"

It's been twenty-five years since the Ouyang family has had a member appointed as the head of the main fortress. I've heard that the old head of the Ouyang family's greatest wish before his death was to see his children and grandchildren restore the family's former glory.

Gong Xiaoshang nodded and said, "I've heard that the Ouyang family has been the subject of much gossip in the Seven Star Linked Docks over the years."

Master Ouyang must be holding back a lot of energy; his luck is pretty good today.

Li Fu nodded slightly, his gaze sweeping over Ouyang Jin's seemingly calm face, then looking at Kuang Zhenyue, whose expression was not good, and he seemed to be deep in thought.

The draw has been completed. The emcee announced that preparations should be made briefly before the first competition begins.

Zhu Tongzhou watched his father get up, stretch his limbs, and pick up his weapon. He couldn't help but feel a little nervous and whispered, "Old Master Shen's swordsmanship is profound, and his skill has only deepened with age. My father's next move—I'm afraid it won't be easy."

Gong Xiaoshang comforted her.

"My uncle's Divine Dragon Staff Technique is powerful and vigorous. My mother once commented that few in the martial arts world could match it. In recent years, he has gradually entered a state of returning to simplicity and authenticity."

Although Grandpa Shen is strong, my uncle might not necessarily lose.

At this moment, the two people in the arena had already clasped their hands in a salute to each other.

Shen Cang slowly drew his ancient-style Bibo sword, its blade like a pool of autumn water, its cold light concealed.

Zhu Tinggao then took a short, black, coiled dragon staff from his disciple. It was about four feet long and the head of the staff was carved into a ferocious dragon head, giving it a powerful appearance.

"Brother Shen, please!"

"Master Zhu, please!"

As soon as the words were spoken, the two attacked almost simultaneously!

Shen Cang flicked his longsword, the tip trembling and transforming into three cold stars, stabbing at Zhu Tinggao from the upper, middle, and lower paths. The attack seemed slow, yet it covered a vast area, carrying an ancient and sharp momentum.

Zhu Tinggao neither dodged nor avoided, but exhaled and slammed his dragon-headed short staff forward with great force, aiming straight for the center of the palace!

"good!"

There was immediate cheering from the sidelines.

A true expert's skill is immediately apparent upon their first move.

These two moves seem simple, but they actually contain profound martial arts principles. One is sharp and the other is fierce, instantly revealing the characteristics of each martial art.

The two instantly engaged in battle.

Shen Cang's swordsmanship initially appeared gentle and unadorned, like ripples on a clear lake. However, the sword moves were continuous, and the force was layered upon layer, becoming increasingly rapid and dense. Eventually, it resembled crashing waves, with the sword light weaving a dense net of light that enveloped Zhu Tinggao.

The sword wind howled and hissed, clearly demonstrating its unparalleled sharpness due to the infusion of internal force.

Zhu Tinggao, on the other hand, was like a pillar in the middle of the stream, wielding a short staff with a coiled dragon, the wind whistling as he swung it with unparalleled strength and power.

His moves were not complicated, often just simple chopping, sweeping, smashing, and stabbing, but each strike was heavy and powerful, containing the immense force of splitting mountains and shattering rocks, constantly shaking and scattering Shen Cang's dense sword net.

The two clashed with their staffs and swords, their figures intertwined, their energy surging and kicking up dust in the arena.

The sounds of metal clashing were incessant, sometimes crisp and sometimes dull. The two men's internal forces clashed continuously, and dozens of moves were exchanged in the blink of an eye, making it a true battle of dragons and tigers.

The spectators on the sidelines were mesmerized, holding their breath involuntarily, and bursting into exclamations and praises from time to time.

"Old Master Shen's Azure Wave Sword Technique is truly remarkable!"

It appears peaceful on the surface, but it harbors deadly intent and has immense potential for future attacks!

"Master Zhu's Divine Dragon Staff Technique is even more powerful and vigorous, its force overwhelming all other techniques; no matter how many variations you employ, I can shatter them all with a single strike!"

"The two of them have probably exchanged sixty or seventy blows by now, haven't they?"

They're still evenly matched!

"This is a true clash of masters; I've truly seen something new today!"

Zhu Tongzhou's palms were sweating, unsure who would gain the upper hand first.

Gong Xiaoshang also stared intently at the scene, then turned to Li Fu without blinking.

"Brother Li, it is said in the martial arts world that your swordsmanship is divine. Even the once famous Fairy of the Immortal Capital was defeated by your sword."

Although I have never seen Fairy Xiandu's swordsmanship, I imagine that Master Shen's swordsmanship skills could not possibly surpass those of Fairy Xiandu, who once challenged the sword masters of various schools.

In your opinion, who had the advantage in this battle between my uncle and Old Master Shen?

Who will win?

Upon hearing this, Zhu Tongzhou suddenly remembered that a peerless swordsman was sitting next to him, and quickly looked at Li Fu.

Even Zhu Kang and Lady Cuiping, who were standing to the side, turned their gazes over.

Lady Cuiping was well-versed in martial arts and had extensive knowledge, but she also knew that in the world, there were probably only a handful of people who could match Li Fu's insight and skill in swordsmanship.

Li Fu looked at the two people fighting fiercely in the arena and spoke calmly.

"Master Shen's Azure Wave Sword Technique is unparalleled in its exquisiteness. It appears simple and unadorned, but in reality, it conceals turbulent waves. Once the sword's momentum is unleashed, it flows like a continuous river, with inexhaustible power."

Uncle Zhu's Divine Dragon Staff technique is powerful and unadorned, expansive and sweeping, following the path of overwhelming force with sheer power; it has truly reached the realm of returning to simplicity and authenticity.

"At present, the two are evenly matched in skill and their moves are equally exquisite, seemingly evenly matched."

Although Master Shen's swordsmanship was exquisite, it required him to build up his strength. Uncle Zhu's staff technique was fierce and powerful, and from the beginning, he did not give him a chance to calmly build up his strength. He used offense as defense and forced him to fight head-on.

If the fight continues like this, Old Master Shen's swordsmanship will be unable to reach its peak, and his internal energy will likely be depleted even more in the long run.

In my opinion, Uncle Zhu has a firm grasp on the victory; barring any unforeseen circumstances, he should be able to win.

Zhu Tongzhou and Gong Xiaoshang felt somewhat relieved after hearing this.

They were already convinced of Li Fu's superior martial arts skills.

Lady Cuiping's eyes flickered, and she nodded slightly.

Watching the two unparalleled martial arts masters clash in the arena, Li Fu couldn't help but sigh inwardly.

"The Jiangnan region is the most prosperous in the world. The combined tax revenue of Suzhou, Hangzhou, Huzhou, Jiaozhou and other places accounts for nearly 30% of the national total. They are not only the imperial purse but also the granary of the country. After all, there is a saying that when Suzhou and Huzhou are prosperous, the whole country is well-fed."

The Seven Star Linked Fortresses have maintained their position as the leading outlaw waterway in Jiangnan for decades, truly demonstrating their profound foundation and hidden strength.

The martial arts skills of Shen Cang and Zhu Tinggao before us are comparable to, or even surpass, those of many famous sect leaders.

Even for him, defeating them, while not difficult, would not be something he could easily do in just a few moves. The martial arts world of Jiangnan was indeed filled with masters.

At this moment, in the midst of the battle, Shen Cang, the Azure Wave Swordsman, changed his attack, his eyes gleaming with divine light, and his swordplay became even more ferocious, like waves rising and falling. In contrast, Zhu Tinggao's attack suddenly weakened, as if it had been suppressed.

Seeing that his father seemed to be shifting to a defensive stance rather than an offensive one under Shen Cang's increasingly fierce swordplay, Zhu Tongzhou couldn't help but feel nervous.

"This... Old Master Shen's offensive is getting more and more intense. My father seems to be losing ground and unable to stop Old Master Shen's attack?"

Seeing his nephew's nervousness, Zhu Kang watched the duel intently without saying a word.

The duel between the two, especially Shen Cang's sword techniques, dazzled him.

Shen Cang's Azure Wave Sword Technique appears simple and unsophisticated, but in reality, each strike contains subtle variations and profound internal strength. The sword movements progress from slow to fast, from sparse to dense, just like a river gradually transforming from a babbling brook into a mighty torrent. The sword principles and power application contained within it greatly benefited Zhu Kang, who was also a swordsman. Many of the exquisite aspects captivated him, and he almost couldn't help but clap his hands and try to imitate the moves.

Not only him, but many martial arts figures who came to watch the event, especially skilled swordsmen, were also completely absorbed in the fierce battle between the two, their minds completely captivated by the duel.

My heart swelled with emotion as the two exchanged blows, sometimes cheering for Shen Cang's exquisite swordsmanship, and sometimes marveling at Zhu Tingmu's unparalleled staff techniques.

However, amidst the captivating spectacle, Zhu Kang and many other swordsmen and martial artists couldn't help but glance unconsciously at the figure in blue robes sitting calmly in the main hall.

"Speaking of which, the swordsmanship of Shen Cang, the Azure Wave Sword Master, is already so high that it is breathtaking and awe-inspiring when he performs it."

""

"Yet this young man, who can unleash a divine dragon with his palm, is a peerless swordsman who has even defeated legendary figures like the Fairy of the Immortal Capital, whose swordsmanship is said to be profound!"

"If he were to make a move, what an astonishing sight it would be."

What would that legendary, unparalleled, and extraordinary swordsmanship look like?

People felt awe, but also an unavoidable curiosity and longing.

Unfortunately, today's competition is an internal contest within the Seven Star Linked Fortresses. This Constable Li was invited to observe the event, so he probably won't steal the show and display his unparalleled swordsmanship.

That level of swordsmanship is something that most of the people present will probably never witness in their lifetime.

Thinking of this, many people felt a slight regret, as if they had missed a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle in the martial arts world, a regret they would carry for the rest of their lives.

Someone sighed softly: "Legend has it that there was once a master swordsman whose sword dance moved all directions. The spectators were as numerous as mountains, their faces downcast, and the heavens and earth seemed to sway in hushed tones."

Swift as Yi shooting down nine suns, graceful as emperors riding dragons in flight.

It comes like thunder, then subsides with fury; it departs like the calming light of a still river or sea.

Watching a master swordsman or a peerless expert make a move is like drinking fine wine. Having fine wine to drink is already quite good.

Unfortunately, there was another exquisite elixir right before my eyes, yet I had no chance to part with it.

Madam Cuiping watched the duel in the arena, comforting her nephew, and said softly.

"Don't rush if you're in the same boat."

Officer Li was right. Old Master Shen's swordsmanship was indeed miraculous. However, this seemingly fierce attack was actually a desperate measure taken after a long period of unsuccessful attacks. His strength was waning due to age, and his internal energy was being depleted.

He wanted to achieve his goal in one fell swoop, but Brother Zhu held firm as a mountain.

This offensive—it won't last much longer.

Sure enough, after another twenty or so moves, Shen Cang's sword momentum, which was like a raging storm, finally showed a slight, almost imperceptible, stagnation.

He was, after all, quite old, and such a full-force attack was taking a huge toll on his internal energy.

Zhu Tinggao keenly seized this opening, and the dragon-headed short staff that had been steadily defending suddenly turned around. After a few fierce attacks, he used a sudden tail swing to deflect the longsword and then swiftly struck Shen Cang's shoulder!

Shen Cang couldn't retaliate in time, and his quick sidestep was also ineffective. He groaned, took three steps back, lowered his sword, and sighed with a bitter smile.

"May Master Wu's skills improve; this old man—has lost."

Zhu Tinggao also put down his staff in time and clasped his hands in greeting.

"Brother Shen, you are too kind."

I was lucky enough to win by a move or two; it was truly thanks to Brother Shen's mercy.

He also had a sword wound on his arm from the recent fight, which was oozing blood, but it was obviously less severe than Shen Cang's injury.

Shen Cang shook his head, said no more, sheathed his sword, and walked back to his seat with the help of his daughter, Shen Zhiqing.

Shen Zhiqing silently bandaged and applied medicine to her father's wounds, her expression still aloof, but her eyes betrayed her concern.

Zhu Tinggao also returned to the main tent, and Zhu Tongzhou and Gong Xiaoshang rushed forward to treat his injuries.

Zhu Tinggao smiled at Li Fu and said, "I'm sorry to have made you laugh, my dear nephew."

Li Fu said, "Uncle Zhu's staff technique is powerful and refined, and Master Shen's swordsmanship is unique. This battle between the two of you has broadened my horizons. How can you say I am laughing at you?"

"Haha, my dear nephew, don't flatter me."