"We've been talking for so long, and you haven't even spared a glance for the wonderful performances on stage. What a pity," Mu Xiong said with a smile.
"State your conditions," Tianhua said.
"Since you don't want to cooperate with me, and I don't want to quarrel with you, the conditions are naturally extraordinary. I need to think about them carefully," Mu Xiong said.
"Since you won't say, I have a condition," Tianhua said.
"Oh, let's hear it," Mu Xiong said.
"I saved Lu Yunshan, and your three subordinates have come looking for me. They almost harmed innocent people. I originally wanted to find you, but now I've changed my mind. From today, we are unrelated individuals. You don't know me, and I don't know you," Tianhua said.
Mu Xiong laughed loudly when he heard this. After a while, he said, "I'm getting more and more interested in you. You came to find me, are you confident?"
"Yes!" Tianhua said without hesitation.
"Good, I appreciate your ability, but I appreciate your confidence even more," Mu Xiong said.
"I don't have much interest in anything here; I care about human lives. So, I will intervene in matters that harm people's lives. As for other things, I might pretend not to see," Tianhua said.
"Your conditions seem beneficial to me. It seems you already knew I would come to find you, and you were prepared!" Mu Xiong said.
"Regardless, this condition doesn't harm you; I am a tricky person," Tianhua said.
"Interesting. Hearing you say that, I suddenly thought of my condition: tell me where you come from?" Mu Xiong said.
Tianhua hesitated for a moment when he heard this, then looked at Mu Xiong and said urgently, "No, I can't agree to that."
"Don't be in a hurry to refuse. This condition won't bring you any harm; on the contrary, it will benefit you. Just move your mouth, and you will save yourself a lot of trouble in the future. Han and his family won't be implicated either. Why not do it?" Mu Xiong said.
Tianhua shook his head and said, "I won't agree to this condition."
"Well, it seems that the conditions we both proposed need some careful consideration," Mu Xiong said.
Tianhua looked at him, no longer speaking. He picked up the wine glass from the table and drank silently.
"Murong Feiyan here is the number one dancer in this town. Now, please have her come out and perform a song!" Mu Xiong said.
One of Mu Xiong's men behind him went inside, and shortly after, Murong Feiyan walked out with him. She approached Mu Xiong and respectfully said, "Lord, the young lady is ready." Mu Xiong looked at her, smiled, and then pointed to Tianhua, saying, "This is my distinguished guest tonight. You should perform well for him."
Murong Feiyan approached, intending to say something, but Mu Xiong interrupted, saying, "You should all know each other! I heard you saved Miss Murong's life twice!"
"Your information is indeed quite accurate!" Tianhua said.
Mu Xiong laughed and didn't speak. Murong Feiyan said, "Sir, it's a pleasure to meet you again. It seems fate has brought us together."
"Fate? Perhaps!" Tianhua said with a bitter smile.
"Since our benefactor is here, you should also sing and dance a song to enhance the festive atmosphere," Mu Xiong said.
Murong Feiyan smiled and said, "I'll go now."
Feiyan took the stage, and the other dancers stepped down. Soon, the music started, and Feiyan danced gracefully. Her movements were enchanting, rarely seen in the mortal world.
Tianhua watched, lifted his wine glass, and drank several cups in a row. Mu Xiong clapped and laughed, "Good, truly deserving of your reputation!"
After watching for a while, Tianhua suddenly stood up and said, "I think it's about time for me to leave."
Mu Xiong did not stop him but said with a smile, "I hope you will consider my conditions when you go back."
Tianhua did not speak and turned away, leaving directly.
Inside the house, Murong Feiyan's dance had not ended, and Mu Xiong was currently enjoying it. He suddenly sighed, "Such a beauty, yet no slightest hint of emotion stirs my heart. What a pity, what a pity!"
Tianhua left the inn; he was going back. In the dimly lit street, Tianhua seemed to have lost his way, unconsciously finding himself in front of the old man's residence. Tianhua stopped, looked around, and felt surprised in his heart: How did I end up here?
Tianhua shook his head with a bitter smile and said to himself, "It seems I'm going to disturb them again tonight!" After that, he walked forward with a smile, knocked on the door.
The door opened, and the same old man from last time greeted Tianhua with a smile, "Young man, you're here again tonight."
"Yes! Old man, is your master at home?" Tianhua asked.
"Yes, the master is in the backyard," the old man said.
"Then, I'll trouble the old man to inform him again," Tianhua said.
"No need, the master has instructed me. If the young sir comes again, there is no need to inform, just enter directly," the old man said.
"That's kind of you," Tianhua said.
The old man led Tianhua to the backyard and pointed to a pavilion, saying, "The master is over there."
Tianhua walked towards the pavilion, and the old man was slowly enjoying the scenery in the yard, sipping his wine. Tianhua approached and said, "Old man, I'm disturbing you again tonight."
The old man heard the voice, looked back, and said, "Oh, it's Tianhua! Come, sit quickly."
In no time, someone had set up bowls and chopsticks. Tianhua smiled and said, "I've come again tonight without notice, hoping the old man won't mind. I'll toast to you."
The old man laughed and said, "Nonsense, you come to accompany me for a drink to relieve my boredom, and I'm grateful."
Tianhua put down the wine glass, looked at the blooming flowers in the courtyard, and said, "In this late spring season, flowers elsewhere have withered quite a bit, but here, the flowers are still in full bloom. It's truly a rare sight!"
"The old man has loved flowers all his life. I had someone move flowers that bloom in all four seasons here, so the courtyard is in full bloom all year round," the old man said with a smile.
"Oh, hearing you say that, I really want to see it," Tianhua said.
"This place is open to you all year round. As long as you have time, you can come over anytime," the old man said with a smile.
Tianhua expressed his gratitude, raised his wine glass, and the two of them toasted. After chatting leisurely with the old man for a while, Tianhua said, "I appreciate your hospitality, but it's getting late. I should take my leave."
The old man nodded and said, "Next time, feel free to come by anytime. We're always here."
Tianhua acknowledged and was about to leave when he suddenly noticed some movement in the courtyard not far away. Suspicion crossed his mind, and he quietly stood there.
Seeing Tianhua standing still, the old man asked in confusion, "Tianhua, what's the matter?"
Tianhua responded, "I've noticed five rats in your courtyard."
"Rats?" The old man asked, puzzled.
"Yes, rats," Tianhua said with a smile. After speaking, he suddenly picked up an empty wine glass from the table and threw it towards the courtyard.
With the sound of the glass shattering, five figures with steel knives emerged from the dimly lit courtyard.
The five individuals stood side by side in front of the pavilion, and Tianhua said with a smile, "The five rats have come out."
The old man looked at the five people in astonishment and asked, "Who are you?"
One of the five said, "Who we are doesn't matter. Knowing who you are is enough. Brothers are a bit tight on money lately, so we thought of asking you, old man, for a favor, lending us some money to spend." Then, he looked menacingly at Tianhua and said, "Kid, you better not meddle, or our knives won't be considerate."
The old man, upon hearing this, suddenly shouted, "Guards! Capture the robbers!"
In no time, about twenty guards rushed into the courtyard. The five individuals disdainfully looked at the guards and all laughed. One of them said, "Master, there's no need for this! We're just here for some wealth. No need for our brothers to resort to violence."
"I have money, but I won't give it to bandits," the old man said.
The guards surged forward, but the five individuals simultaneously attacked. The guards, like a knife cutting through vegetables, were quickly subdued.
The five individuals looked at the old man and Tianhua, one of them said, "I think you, old man, should understand now."
Tianhua, on the side, glanced at the old man and then smiled, saying, "I believe you should also consider whether you want to leave now."
Upon hearing this, the five individuals froze and looked at Tianhua with complex expressions: Could this kid be a master? Or is he just bluffing?
While the five were pondering, one of them suddenly screamed and flew to the side. The other four were astonished and turned to look at the fallen comrade, who was now groaning in pain.
Before they could react, Tianhua had approached them, standing just a step away. The four were alarmed, their tightly gripped knives seeming to loosen.
The old man behind them sat there, smiling and watching Tianhua.
"I think you should have understood by now!" Tianhua said.
The four looked at each other, and suddenly, all four nodded, shouting towards Tianhua and rushing at him. Tianhua dodged swiftly, and before the four could comprehend, he flew towards the spot where the fallen comrade lay. Simultaneously, the knives in their hands, seemingly struck by an invisible force, loosened, and the four tumbled to the ground. Tianhua did not use excessive force as he did with the first person; the four could still get up.
As the four individuals got up, looking at Tianhua who held four knives, their fear intensified. Tianhua looked at them and said, "Now you can leave!"
The four still stood there motionless. Suddenly, knives flew out of Tianhua's hands towards the four. Seeing this, the four were terrified, but the knives weren't aimed at them; instead, they landed in front of each of them. Tianhua shouted, "Go!"
The four, startled, turned and ran away. Tianhua shouted again, "Wait!"
The four stopped, fearfully turning to look at Tianhua. Tianhua pointed at the person lying on the ground and said, "Him too."
The four understood, hastily helped the fallen comrade, and ran off.
The old man watched the entire process with a smile.
When Tianhua turned around, the old man stood up, smiling, and said, "I didn't expect you to be so skilled. Thank you for your help today!"
"Old man, you're too kind. I've been treated well by you many times, and today's events were something I should do," Tianhua said.
The old man nodded and then said, "Tianhua, wait here for a moment!"
After speaking, the old man walked away. Tianhua sat alone in the pavilion, waiting with curiosity.
After a while, the old man returned, holding a plate of gold and silver jewelry, and said, "For today's kindness, I can't thank you enough. Please accept this small token of appreciation."
Tianhua, upon seeing this, quickly declined, saying, "I've disturbed you late at night multiple times and haven't brought any gifts. Today's assistance was coincidental, and I cannot accept such a valuable gift."
"At night visits are trivial matters compared to today's events. Don't think too much about it; please accept it!" the old man insisted.
Tianhua persisted in refusing. The old man, unable to convince him, said, "If that's the case, name a condition, and I'll do my best to fulfill it."
"I have no other requests. I only hope to visit and enjoy the blooming flowers in your courtyard at any time of the year," Tianhua said.
"We've already agreed on that earlier, and I've agreed to it. Give me another condition!" the old man insisted.
"I really have no other requests. Now that it's late, I need to go back quickly," Tianhua said.
Without waiting for the old man to speak, Tianhua turned and left swiftly. This time, Tianhua left quickly, and in the blink of an eye, he was gone. Anyone witnessing this would surely exclaim loudly, but the old man stood there calmly.
After a long while, the old man put down the plate in his hands and looked at the jewelry on it, saying, "Such tempting things, yet not a trace of desire stirs in my heart. Truly rare, truly rare!" He glanced at the guards lying in the courtyard and chuckled, "At such a young age, to have such skills, and the control of strength so precise. It seems things are becoming more interesting!"
By now, it was late at night. Tianhua hurried back, leaping into the backyard. He saw the lights still on in his room and pushed the door open. Inside, he found Boss Han sitting there. Apparently, worried about Tianhua not returning for so long, Boss Han couldn't sleep and chose to wait in Tianhua's room.
"Tianhu, why haven't you slept yet?" Tianhua was surprised to see Boss Han sitting there.
"Tianhua, are you okay? Did Mu Xiong give you trouble?" Boss Han asked anxiously.
"Boss Han, I'm fine!" Tianhua assured him.
"Why did you come back so late?" Boss Han asked with confusion.
"I was originally back early, but feeling upset, I went to a friend's place for a few drinks, which caused the delay. I apologize for making you worry, Uncle Han," Tianhua explained apologetically.
"A friend's place? You have acquaintances in town? Why have I never heard you mention them before?" Boss Han questioned with skepticism.
"Because I recently got to know them by chance, so I didn't mention it when I came back," Tianhua explained.
"What's the person's last name and full name?" Boss Han inquired.
"I've only met him three times. The old man is quite generous, and each time we just had a few drinks together, chatting about trivial matters. So, neither of us bothered to ask for names," Tianhua replied.
"What does the old man look like?" Boss Han asked.
Tianhua described the old man's appearance, and after listening, Boss Han pondered, "In all these years in town, I've never heard of this person! Wait a moment, Tianhua, where does he live?" Tianhua mentioned the old man's residence, leaving Boss Han even more puzzled. "I've truly never heard of this family!"
Seeing Boss Han deep in thought, Tianhua asked, "Uncle Han, is there a problem?"
"I don't know if there's a problem, but I've never known anyone living there in all my years in town," Boss Han pondered.
"Perhaps they're new residents!" Tianhua suggested.
"That's possible. Let's not dwell on that. Tell me, what did Mu Xiong discuss with you today?" Boss Han redirected the conversation.
"We discussed our respective conditions, but I don't think either of us will agree to the other's terms," Tianhua explained.
"Oh, I see!" Boss Han rubbed his chin, then continued, "Regardless of the conditions, you shouldn't agree. Let's see what he can do! You came back safely, and it's late now. Get some rest!"
After saying that, Boss Han left the room. Tianhua extinguished the lights and lay on the bed, thinking about the conditions Mu Xiong had proposed. As he contemplated, his mind also drifted back to the five individuals he encountered in the old man's backyard. Feeling exhausted, Tianhua unknowingly slipped into a deep sleep.
When dawn arrived, Tianhua woke up early and prepared breakfast in the kitchen. While busy, he heard a knocking sound. Wondering who could be knocking so early, he called out to Boss Han.
Boss Han had also risen by this time and, upon hearing the knocking, asked, "Who is knocking so early?"
"I don't know. I'll go check," Tianhua replied.
Opening the door, Tianhua was surprised to find someone exclaiming, "Tianhua, you're indeed here." Startled, Tianhua looked and was astonished. He quickly pulled the person inside and closed the door, saying, "Yunshan, what are you doing here?"
The visitor was none other than Lu Yunshan. After spending a few days at Ali's place and feeling his injuries had sufficiently healed, he set out with Ling Yan. Upon leaving, Lu Yunshan had been busy planning how to overthrow the rule of the three cities and one town. During one operation, he accidentally overheard people mentioning a young man in Mountain City with specific qualities. After inquiries, he learned that Tianhua had been staying at the "Mountain City Inn." So, he came to see Tianhua today.
Excited to meet each other, Tianhua led Lu Yunshan to the backyard. Seeing Lu Yunshan entering, Boss Han was taken aback and asked, "Who is this, Tianhua?"
"Uncle Han, this is Lu Yunshan, the one Mu Xiong and his group are looking for," Tianhua explained.
Boss Han acknowledged, saying, "Mu Xiong is actively searching for him, so why is he risking coming here?"
Upon hearing this, Tianhua also inquired, "Indeed! Yunshan, why did you come here?"
Lu Yunshan, looking at Tianhua and then at Boss Han, showed a hesitant expression. Tianhua reassured him, saying, "Yunshan, he is Uncle Han, the owner here. If you have anything to say, just speak up; nothing will go wrong."
Relieved, Lu Yunshan smiled and said, "Boss Han, I appreciate your care for Tianhua; I'm truly grateful."
Boss Han smiled and replied, "It's a small matter. Tianhua, you guys talk; I'll go wake up Xiaoling."
After saying that, Boss Han went into the house. Lu Yunshan, seeing Boss Han leave, nervously held Tianhua's hand and asked, "Tianhua, it's been a long time since we last met. Is everything okay?"
"Everything is fine. Look at me; I'm in good shape now!" Tianhua assured.
Observing Tianhua, Lu Yunshan chuckled and said, "After not seeing you for so long, you seem to have gained a little weight."
"Boss Han treats me like family; how can I not gain weight?" Tianhua laughed.
"By the way, Tianhua, why did you choose to stay here?" Lu Yunshan asked in amazement.
Tianhua then explained the whole situation, and after listening, Lu Yunshan apologized, "Tianhua, I'm sorry for involving you in all this."
"It's not your fault, Yunshan," Tianhua comforted him. "Yunshan, why did you suddenly come here?"
"I came today to see you, and there's another important matter to attend to," Lu Yunshan revealed.
"What matter?" Tianhua inquired.
Lu Yunshan glanced around, and Tianhua said with a smile, "You can speak freely; there's no one around."
Lu Yunshan smiled, then seriously said, "We're here to assassinate Mu Xiong."
Tianhua, surprised, asked, "Assassinate Mu Xiong?"
"Yes, we found out that in two days, Mu Xiong will be going to Sunset City. So, we plan to ambush him outside the east gate and attack. I came today to gather some information," Lu Yunshan explained.
"I see," Tianhua said.
"Tianhua, I also need your help with something," Lu Yunshan requested.
"You and I have no need for such formalities; just tell me," Tianhua said.
"In these two days, I want to stay here," Lu Yunshan said.
"That's not a problem. If there's anything else I can help with, feel free to ask," Tianhua offered.
"Just having this place as shelter is enough. Everything else is prepared. We only need to gather information here. If all goes well, Mu Xiong will undoubtedly meet his end in two days. At that time, Tianhua, you can leave this place and travel wherever you want," Lu Yunshan explained.
Having finished their conversation, Lu Yunshan suddenly noticed a person standing beside him. An old man was looking at him with confusion. Startled, Lu Yunshan looked at Tianhua and asked, "Tianhua, who is this?"
Tianhua smiled, nodded towards the old man, and gestured a few times, saying, "This is my master. I've learned
many dishes from him. But don't worry; he is deaf and mute!"
Relieved, Lu Yunshan nodded politely to the old man, who also smiled and nodded before going aside.
While they were talking, Tianhua suddenly stood up and exclaimed, "I've been talking to you and forgot to prepare breakfast. Yunshan, please sit for a moment. I'll be right back!"
In no time, Tianhua had breakfast ready. After eating, Lu Yunshan went out for his own matters, and Tianhua and Boss Han resumed their daily routines.
Lu Yunshan returned only in the evening. Tianhua welcomed him into the room and asked, "What information did you gather today?"
"We got a clear understanding. Mu Xiong will head to Sunset City the day after tomorrow in the morning. Tianhua, I'll need to leave early tomorrow to make preparations," Lu Yunshan said in a hushed tone.
"Alright, then rest early. Thank you, Tianhua! Without you, I might not be in this world anymore!" Lu Yunshan expressed his gratitude.
"No need to be polite. We're friends," Tianhua said.
"That's right! Since we're friends, there's no need for thanks!" Lu Yunshan agreed.
The two exchanged smiles and then extinguished the lights to rest.
Early the next morning, Lu Yunshan left while it was still quiet, and people were yet to wake up. Tianhua, seeing him off, reminded, "Be careful!"
Lu Yunshan nodded his thanks and hastily departed. Tianhua watched his departing figure until it disappeared before closing the door and returning to the house.
On the third day, a group of people and horses left through the east gate, heading towards Sunset City. Three individuals rode horses at the front, leading the way, while the remaining hundred or so people surrounded a large carriage at the rear.
A gentle breeze rustled the leaves on both sides of the road outside the east gate, producing a "shush" sound...
"We've been talking for so long, and you haven't even spared a glance for the wonderful performances on stage. What a pity," Mu Xiong said with a smile.
"State your conditions," Tianhua said.
"Since you don't want to cooperate with me, and I don't want to quarrel with you, the conditions are naturally extraordinary. I need to think about them carefully," Mu Xiong said.
"Since you won't say, I have a condition," Tianhua said.
"Oh, let's hear it," Mu Xiong said.
"I saved Lu Yunshan, and your three subordinates have come looking for me. They almost harmed innocent people. I originally wanted to find you, but now I've changed my mind. From today, we are unrelated individuals. You don't know me, and I don't know you," Tianhua said.
Mu Xiong laughed loudly when he heard this. After a while, he said, "I'm getting more and more interested in you. You came to find me, are you confident?"
"Yes!" Tianhua said without hesitation.
"Good, I appreciate your ability, but I appreciate your confidence even more," Mu Xiong said.
"I don't have much interest in anything here; I care about human lives. So, I will intervene in matters that harm people's lives. As for other things, I might pretend not to see," Tianhua said.
"Your conditions seem beneficial to me. It seems you already knew I would come to find you, and you were prepared!" Mu Xiong said.
"Regardless, this condition doesn't harm you; I am a tricky person," Tianhua said.
"Interesting. Hearing you say that, I suddenly thought of my condition: tell me where you come from?" Mu Xiong said.
Tianhua hesitated for a moment when he heard this, then looked at Mu Xiong and said urgently, "No, I can't agree to that."
"Don't be in a hurry to refuse. This condition won't bring you any harm; on the contrary, it will benefit you. Just move your mouth, and you will save yourself a lot of trouble in the future. Han and his family won't be implicated either. Why not do it?" Mu Xiong said.
Tianhua shook his head and said, "I won't agree to this condition."
"Well, it seems that the conditions we both proposed need some careful consideration," Mu Xiong said.
Tianhua looked at him, no longer speaking. He picked up the wine glass from the table and drank silently.
"Murong Feiyan here is the number one dancer in this town. Now, please have her come out and perform a song!" Mu Xiong said.
One of Mu Xiong's men behind him went inside, and shortly after, Murong Feiyan walked out with him. She approached Mu Xiong and respectfully said, "Lord, the young lady is ready." Mu Xiong looked at her, smiled, and then pointed to Tianhua, saying, "This is my distinguished guest tonight. You should perform well for him."
Murong Feiyan approached, intending to say something, but Mu Xiong interrupted, saying, "You should all know each other! I heard you saved Miss Murong's life twice!"
"Your information is indeed quite accurate!" Tianhua said.
Mu Xiong laughed and didn't speak. Murong Feiyan said, "Sir, it's a pleasure to meet you again. It seems fate has brought us together."
"Fate? Perhaps!" Tianhua said with a bitter smile.
"Since our benefactor is here, you should also sing and dance a song to enhance the festive atmosphere," Mu Xiong said.
Murong Feiyan smiled and said, "I'll go now."
Feiyan took the stage, and the other dancers stepped down. Soon, the music started, and Feiyan danced gracefully. Her movements were enchanting, rarely seen in the mortal world.
Tianhua watched, lifted his wine glass, and drank several cups in a row. Mu Xiong clapped and laughed, "Good, truly deserving of your reputation!"
After watching for a while, Tianhua suddenly stood up and said, "I think it's about time for me to leave."
Mu Xiong did not stop him but said with a smile, "I hope you will consider my conditions when you go back."
Tianhua did not speak and turned away, leaving directly.
Inside the house, Murong Feiyan's dance had not ended, and Mu Xiong was currently enjoying it. He suddenly sighed, "Such a beauty, yet no slightest hint of emotion stirs my heart. What a pity, what a pity!"
Tianhua left the inn; he was going back. In the dimly lit street, Tianhua seemed to have lost his way, unconsciously finding himself in front of the old man's residence. Tianhua stopped, looked around, and felt surprised in his heart: How did I end up here?
Tianhua shook his head with a bitter smile and said to himself, "It seems I'm going to disturb them again tonight!" After that, he walked forward with a smile, knocked on the door.
The door opened, and the same old man from last time greeted Tianhua with a smile, "Young man, you're here again tonight."
"Yes! Old man, is your master at home?" Tianhua asked.
"Yes, the master is in the backyard," the old man said.
"Then, I'll trouble the old man to inform him again," Tianhua said.
"No need, the master has instructed me. If the young sir comes again, there is no need to inform, just enter directly," the old man said.
"That's kind of you," Tianhua said.
The old man led Tianhua to the backyard and pointed to a pavilion, saying, "The master is over there."
Tianhua walked towards the pavilion, and the old man was slowly enjoying the scenery in the yard, sipping his wine. Tianhua approached and said, "Old man, I'm disturbing you again tonight."
The old man heard the voice, looked back, and said, "Oh, it's Tianhua! Come, sit quickly."
In no time, someone had set up bowls and chopsticks. Tianhua smiled and said, "I've come again tonight without notice, hoping the old man won't mind. I'll toast to you."
The old man laughed and said, "Nonsense, you come to accompany me for a drink to relieve my boredom, and I'm grateful."
Tianhua put down the wine glass, looked at the blooming flowers in the courtyard, and said, "In this late spring season, flowers elsewhere have withered quite a bit, but here, the flowers are still in full bloom. It's truly a rare sight!"
"The old man has loved flowers all his life. I had someone move flowers that bloom in all four seasons here, so the courtyard is in full bloom all year round," the old man said with a smile.
"Oh, hearing you say that, I really want to see it," Tianhua said.
"This place is open to you all year round. As long as you have time, you can come over anytime," the old man said with a smile.
Tianhua expressed his gratitude, raised his wine glass, and the two of them toasted. After chatting leisurely with the old man for a while, Tianhua said, "I appreciate your hospitality, but it's getting late. I should take my leave."
The old man nodded and said, "Next time, feel free to come by anytime. We're always here."
Tianhua acknowledged and was about to leave when he suddenly noticed some movement in the courtyard not far away. Suspicion crossed his mind, and he quietly stood there.
Seeing Tianhua standing still, the old man asked in confusion, "Tianhua, what's the matter?"
Tianhua responded, "I've noticed five rats in your courtyard."
"Rats?" The old man asked, puzzled.
"Yes, rats," Tianhua said with a smile. After speaking, he suddenly picked up an empty wine glass from the table and threw it towards the courtyard.
With the sound of the glass shattering, five figures with steel knives emerged from the dimly lit courtyard.
The five individuals stood side by side in front of the pavilion, and Tianhua said with a smile, "The five rats have come out."
The old man looked at the five people in astonishment and asked, "Who are you?"
One of the five said, "Who we are doesn't matter. Knowing who you are is enough. Brothers are a bit tight on money lately, so we thought of asking you, old man, for a favor, lending us some money to spend." Then, he looked menacingly at Tianhua and said, "Kid, you better not meddle, or our knives won't be considerate."
The old man, upon hearing this, suddenly shouted, "Guards! Capture the robbers!"
In no time, about twenty guards rushed into the courtyard. The five individuals disdainfully looked at the guards and all laughed. One of them said, "Master, there's no need for this! We're just here for some wealth. No need for our brothers to resort to violence."
"I have money, but I won't give it to bandits," the old man said.
The guards surged forward, but the five individuals simultaneously attacked. The guards, like a knife cutting through vegetables, were quickly subdued.
The five individuals looked at the old man and Tianhua, one of them said, "I think you, old man, should understand now."
Tianhua, on the side, glanced at the old man and then smiled, saying, "I believe you should also consider whether you want to leave now."
Upon hearing this, the five individuals froze and looked at Tianhua with complex expressions: Could this kid be a master? Or is he just bluffing?
While the five were pondering, one of them suddenly screamed and flew to the side. The other four were astonished and turned to look at the fallen comrade, who was now groaning in pain.
Before they could react, Tianhua had approached them, standing just a step away. The four were alarmed, their tightly gripped knives seeming to loosen.
The old man behind them sat there, smiling and watching Tianhua.
"I think you should have understood by now!" Tianhua said.
The four looked at each other, and suddenly, all four nodded, shouting towards Tianhua and rushing at him. Tianhua dodged swiftly, and before the four could comprehend, he flew towards the spot where the fallen comrade lay. Simultaneously, the knives in their hands, seemingly struck by an invisible force, loosened, and the four tumbled to the ground. Tianhua did not use excessive force as he did with the first person; the four could still get up.
As the four individuals got up, looking at Tianhua who held four knives, their fear intensified. Tianhua looked at them and said, "Now you can leave!"
The four still stood there motionless. Suddenly, knives flew out of Tianhua's hands towards the four. Seeing this, the four were terrified, but the knives weren't aimed at them; instead, they landed in front of each of them. Tianhua shouted, "Go!"
The four, startled, turned and ran away. Tianhua shouted again, "Wait!"
The four stopped, fearfully turning to look at Tianhua. Tianhua pointed at the person lying on the ground and said, "Him too."
The four understood, hastily helped the fallen comrade, and ran off.
The old man watched the entire process with a smile.
When Tianhua turned around, the old man stood up, smiling, and said, "I didn't expect you to be so skilled. Thank you for your help today!"
"Old man, you're too kind. I've been treated well by you many times, and today's events were something I should do," Tianhua said.
The old man nodded and then said, "Tianhua, wait here for a moment!"
After speaking, the old man walked away. Tianhua sat alone in the pavilion, waiting with curiosity.
After a while, the old man returned, holding a plate of gold and silver jewelry, and said, "For today's kindness, I can't thank you enough. Please accept this small token of appreciation."
Tianhua, upon seeing this, quickly declined, saying, "I've disturbed you late at night multiple times and haven't brought any gifts. Today's assistance was coincidental, and I cannot accept such a valuable gift."
"At night visits are trivial matters compared to today's events. Don't think too much about it; please accept it!" the old man insisted.
Tianhua persisted in refusing. The old man, unable to convince him, said, "If that's the case, name a condition, and I'll do my best to fulfill it."
"I have no other requests. I only hope to visit and enjoy the blooming flowers in your courtyard at any time of the year," Tianhua said.
"We've already agreed on that earlier, and I've agreed to it. Give me another condition!" the old man insisted.
"I really have no other requests. Now that it's late, I need to go back quickly," Tianhua said.
Without waiting for the old man to speak, Tianhua turned and left swiftly. This time, Tianhua left quickly, and in the blink of an eye, he was gone. Anyone witnessing this would surely exclaim loudly, but the old man stood there calmly.
After a long while, the old man put down the plate in his hands and looked at the jewelry on it, saying, "Such tempting things, yet not a trace of desire stirs in my heart. Truly rare, truly rare!" He glanced at the guards lying in the courtyard and chuckled, "At such a young age, to have such skills, and the control of strength so precise. It seems things are becoming more interesting!"
By now, it was late at night. Tianhua hurried back, leaping into the backyard. He saw the lights still on in his room and pushed the door open. Inside, he found Boss Han sitting there. Apparently, worried about Tianhua not returning for so long, Boss Han couldn't sleep and chose to wait in Tianhua's room.
"Tianhu, why haven't you slept yet?" Tianhua was surprised to see Boss Han sitting there.
"Tianhua, are you okay? Did Mu Xiong give you trouble?" Boss Han asked anxiously.
"Boss Han, I'm fine!" Tianhua assured him.
"Why did you come back so late?" Boss Han asked with confusion.
"I was originally back early, but feeling upset, I went to a friend's place for a few drinks, which caused the delay. I apologize for making you worry, Uncle Han," Tianhua explained apologetically.
"A friend's place? You have acquaintances in town? Why have I never heard you mention them before?" Boss Han questioned with skepticism.
"Because I recently got to know them by chance, so I didn't mention it when I came back," Tianhua explained.
"What's the person's last name and full name?" Boss Han inquired.
"I've only met him three times. The old man is quite generous, and each time we just had a few drinks together, chatting about trivial matters. So, neither of us bothered to ask for names," Tianhua replied.
"What does the old man look like?" Boss Han asked.
Tianhua described the old man's appearance, and after listening, Boss Han pondered, "In all these years in town, I've never heard of this person! Wait a moment, Tianhua, where does he live?" Tianhua mentioned the old man's residence, leaving Boss Han even more puzzled. "I've truly never heard of this family!"
Seeing Boss Han deep in thought, Tianhua asked, "Uncle Han, is there a problem?"
"I don't know if there's a problem, but I've never known anyone living there in all my years in town," Boss Han pondered.
"Perhaps they're new residents!" Tianhua suggested.
"That's possible. Let's not dwell on that. Tell me, what did Mu Xiong discuss with you today?" Boss Han redirected the conversation.
"We discussed our respective conditions, but I don't think either of us will agree to the other's terms," Tianhua explained.
"Oh, I see!" Boss Han rubbed his chin, then continued, "Regardless of the conditions, you shouldn't agree. Let's see what he can do! You came back safely, and it's late now. Get some rest!"
After saying that, Boss Han left the room. Tianhua extinguished the lights and lay on the bed, thinking about the conditions Mu Xiong had proposed. As he contemplated, his mind also drifted back to the five individuals he encountered in the old man's backyard. Feeling exhausted, Tianhua unknowingly slipped into a deep sleep.
When dawn arrived, Tianhua woke up early and prepared breakfast in the kitchen. While busy, he heard a knocking sound. Wondering who could be knocking so early, he called out to Boss Han.
Boss Han had also risen by this time and, upon hearing the knocking, asked, "Who is knocking so early?"
"I don't know. I'll go check," Tianhua replied.
Opening the door, Tianhua was surprised to find someone exclaiming, "Tianhua, you're indeed here." Startled, Tianhua looked and was astonished. He quickly pulled the person inside and closed the door, saying, "Yunshan, what are you doing here?"
The visitor was none other than Lu Yunshan. After spending a few days at Ali's place and feeling his injuries had sufficiently healed, he set out with Ling Yan. Upon leaving, Lu Yunshan had been busy planning how to overthrow the rule of the three cities and one town. During one operation, he accidentally overheard people mentioning a young man in Mountain City with specific qualities. After inquiries, he learned that Tianhua had been staying at the "Mountain City Inn." So, he came to see Tianhua today.
Excited to meet each other, Tianhua led Lu Yunshan to the backyard. Seeing Lu Yunshan entering, Boss Han was taken aback and asked, "Who is this, Tianhua?"
"Uncle Han, this is Lu Yunshan, the one Mu Xiong and his group are looking for," Tianhua explained.
Boss Han acknowledged, saying, "Mu Xiong is actively searching for him, so why is he risking coming here?"
Upon hearing this, Tianhua also inquired, "Indeed! Yunshan, why did you come here?"
Lu Yunshan, looking at Tianhua and then at Boss Han, showed a hesitant expression. Tianhua reassured him, saying, "Yunshan, he is Uncle Han, the owner here. If you have anything to say, just speak up; nothing will go wrong."
Relieved, Lu Yunshan smiled and said, "Boss Han, I appreciate your care for Tianhua; I'm truly grateful."
Boss Han smiled and replied, "It's a small matter. Tianhua, you guys talk; I'll go wake up Xiaoling."
After saying that, Boss Han went into the house. Lu Yunshan, seeing Boss Han leave, nervously held Tianhua's hand and asked, "Tianhua, it's been a long time since we last met. Is everything okay?"
"Everything is fine. Look at me; I'm in good shape now!" Tianhua assured.
Observing Tianhua, Lu Yunshan chuckled and said, "After not seeing you for so long, you seem to have gained a little weight."
"Boss Han treats me like family; how can I not gain weight?" Tianhua laughed.
"By the way, Tianhua, why did you choose to stay here?" Lu Yunshan asked in amazement.
Tianhua then explained the whole situation, and after listening, Lu Yunshan apologized, "Tianhua, I'm sorry for involving you in all this."
"It's not your fault, Yunshan," Tianhua comforted him. "Yunshan, why did you suddenly come here?"
"I came today to see you, and there's another important matter to attend to," Lu Yunshan revealed.
"What matter?" Tianhua inquired.
Lu Yunshan glanced around, and Tianhua said with a smile, "You can speak freely; there's no one around."
Lu Yunshan smiled, then seriously said, "We're here to assassinate Mu Xiong."
Tianhua, surprised, asked, "Assassinate Mu Xiong?"
"Yes, we found out that in two days, Mu Xiong will be going to Sunset City. So, we plan to ambush him outside the east gate and attack. I came today to gather some information," Lu Yunshan explained.
"I see," Tianhua said.
"Tianhua, I also need your help with something," Lu Yunshan requested.
"You and I have no need for such formalities; just tell me," Tianhua said.
"In these two days, I want to stay here," Lu Yunshan said.
"That's not a problem. If there's anything else I can help with, feel free to ask," Tianhua offered.
"Just having this place as shelter is enough. Everything else is prepared. We only need to gather information here. If all goes well, Mu Xiong will undoubtedly meet his end in two days. At that time, Tianhua, you can leave this place and travel wherever you want," Lu Yunshan explained.
Having finished their conversation, Lu Yunshan suddenly noticed a person standing beside him. An old man was looking at him with confusion. Startled, Lu Yunshan looked at Tianhua and asked, "Tianhua, who is this?"
Tianhua smiled, nodded towards the old man, and gestured a few times, saying, "This is my master. I've learned
many dishes from him. But don't worry; he is deaf and mute!"
Relieved, Lu Yunshan nodded politely to the old man, who also smiled and nodded before going aside.
While they were talking, Tianhua suddenly stood up and exclaimed, "I've been talking to you and forgot to prepare breakfast. Yunshan, please sit for a moment. I'll be right back!"
In no time, Tianhua had breakfast ready. After eating, Lu Yunshan went out for his own matters, and Tianhua and Boss Han resumed their daily routines.
Lu Yunshan returned only in the evening. Tianhua welcomed him into the room and asked, "What information did you gather today?"
"We got a clear understanding. Mu Xiong will head to Sunset City the day after tomorrow in the morning. Tianhua, I'll need to leave early tomorrow to make preparations," Lu Yunshan said in a hushed tone.
"Alright, then rest early. Thank you, Tianhua! Without you, I might not be in this world anymore!" Lu Yunshan expressed his gratitude.
"No need to be polite. We're friends," Tianhua said.
"That's right! Since we're friends, there's no need for thanks!" Lu Yunshan agreed.
The two exchanged smiles and then extinguished the lights to rest.
Early the next morning, Lu Yunshan left while it was still quiet, and people were yet to wake up. Tianhua, seeing him off, reminded, "Be careful!"
Lu Yunshan nodded his thanks and hastily departed. Tianhua watched his departing figure until it disappeared before closing the door and returning to the house.
On the third day, a group of people and horses left through the east gate, heading towards Sunset City. Three individuals rode horses at the front, leading the way, while the remaining hundred or so people surrounded a large carriage at the rear.
A gentle breeze rustled the leaves on both sides of the road outside the east gate, producing a "shush" sound...
