"Yunshan..." As someone lowered their voice to call out the name, Lu Yunshan quickly gestured for them to remain silent.
Deep within the dense forest, Lu Yunshan's eyes were tightly fixed on the approaching sedan chair. When it drew nearer, he waved his hand, and countless arrows shot out from the depths of the forest. Witnessing this, Cheng Kong hastily pulled on the reins and shouted, "Ambush! Be careful!"
Chaos ensued as people dodged the incoming arrows. Cheng Kong and his two companions shouted, "Protect the town lord! Don't panic! Stay focused!"
After a barrage of arrows, although Mu Xiong's sedan chair was not severely damaged, a significant number of his followers were shot down. As the attack ceased, voices echoed from the dense forest, and hundreds of people emerged, encircling Mu Xiong and his group.Lu Yunshan stood before the crowd and shouted, "Mu Xiong, it's time to pay with your life!"
Those surrounded looked at each other with fear, gazing at Lu Yunshan in awe.
Suddenly, the curtains of the sedan chair opened, revealing Mu Xiong inside. He glanced at Lu Yunshan and said, "Well, well, Lu Yunshan, I didn't go looking for you, but you've come to me willingly! Fine, this saves me a lot of trouble!"
"Mu Xiong, spare the chatter. Today is the day of your demise!" Lu Yunshan exclaimed.
Mu Xiong looked around, then sneered, "Do you think you can take my life with just these people? You're underestimating my subordinates!" Lu Yunshan looked at him, then at Cheng Kong and his companions, furrowing his brow slightly. Just as he was about to say something, Mu Xiong continued, "But I must admit, there's one thing I can commend you for."
"Oh?" Lu Yunshan responded curiously.
"Today, my whereabouts were well hidden. Except for a few close associates, no one else knew. Yet, you were already aware and set up this ambush." Mu Xiong said.
"Killing you naturally requires some tactics," Lu Yunshan replied.
"Let's see what tactics you have in store!" Mu Xiong smiled.
"I'll take your life even if it costs me everything!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Good, good, good. Courage is indeed commendable, but what will you do next?" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Capture Lu Yunshan!"
Upon hearing this, Cheng Kong and his companions brandished their weapons and rushed towards Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan shouted, "Attack!"
A melee ensued. Despite Lu Yunshan having a larger number of people, they were mostly average fighters, no match for Cheng Kong's group. Swords moved like agile snakes, twin blades resembled raging waves, and silver needles danced in the air. The cries of agony filled the surroundings as people fell like leaves in a storm. In a short time, over half of both Lu Yunshan and Mu Xiong's forces lay on the ground.
Helpless, Lu Yunshan watched as bodies piled up but couldn't do anything. He gritted his teeth, glaring at Cheng Kong and his companions. Meanwhile, Mu Xiong sat in the sedan chair, smiling as he observed the carnage.
At that moment, the curtain of the sedan chair was lifted, revealing Mu Xiong seated inside. He glanced at Lu Yunshan and said, "Lu Yunshan, you're quite impressive. I didn't come looking for you, but you've willingly walked into my trap. Well, well, this saves me a lot of trouble!"
"Mu Xiong, spare the chatter. Today is the day of your demise!" Lu Yunshan declared.
Mu Xiong looked around, then sneered, "Do you think you can take my life with just these people? You're underestimating my subordinates!" Lu Yunshan looked at him, then at Cheng Kong and his companions, furrowing his brow slightly. Just as he was about to say something, Mu Xiong continued, "But I must admit, there's one thing I can commend you for."
"Oh?" Lu Yunshan responded curiously.
"Today, my whereabouts were well hidden. Except for a few close associates, no one else knew. Yet, you were already aware and set up this ambush." Mu Xiong said.
"Killing you naturally requires some tactics," Lu Yunshan replied.
"Let's see what tactics you have in store!" Mu Xiong smiled.
"I'll take your life even if it costs me everything!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Good, good, good. Courage is indeed commendable, but what will you do next?" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Capture Lu Yunshan!"
Upon hearing this, Cheng Kong and his companions brandished their weapons and rushed towards Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan shouted, "Attack!"
A melee ensued. Despite Lu Yunshan having a larger number of people, they were mostly average fighters, no match for Cheng Kong's group. Swords moved like agile snakes, twin blades resembled raging waves, and silver needles danced in the air. The cries of agony filled the surroundings as people fell like leaves in a storm. In a short time, over half of both Lu Yunshan and Mu Xiong's forces lay on the ground.
Helpless, Lu Yunshan watched as bodies piled up but couldn't do anything. He gritted his teeth, glaring at Cheng Kong and his companions. Meanwhile, Mu Xiong sat in the sedan chair, smiling as he observed the carnage.
At that moment, the curtain of the sedan chair was lifted, revealing Mu Xiong seated inside. He glanced at Lu Yunshan and said, "Lu Yunshan, you're quite impressive. I didn't come looking for you, but you've willingly walked into my trap. Well, well, this saves me a lot of trouble!"
"Mu Xiong, spare the chatter. Today is the day of your demise!" Lu Yunshan declared.
Mu Xiong looked around, then sneered, "Do you think you can take my life with just these people? You're underestimating my subordinates!" Lu Yunshan looked at him, then at Cheng Kong and his companions, furrowing his brow slightly. Just as he was about to say something, Mu Xiong continued, "But I must admit, there's one thing I can commend you for."
"Oh?" Lu Yunshan responded curiously.
"Today, my whereabouts were well hidden. Except for a few close associates, no one else knew. Yet, you were already aware and set up this ambush." Mu Xiong said.
"Killing you naturally requires some tactics," Lu Yunshan replied.
"Let's see what tactics you have in store!" Mu Xiong smiled.
"I'll take your life even if it costs me everything!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Good, good, good. Courage is indeed commendable, but what will you do next?" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Capture Lu Yunshan!"
Upon hearing this, Cheng Kong and his companions brandished their weapons and rushed towards Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan shouted, "Attack!"
A melee ensued. Despite Lu Yunshan having a larger number of people, they were mostly average fighters, no match for Cheng Kong's group. Swords moved like agile snakes, twin blades resembled raging waves, and silver needles danced in the air. The cries of agony filled the surroundings as people fell like leaves in a storm. In a short time, over half of both Lu Yunshan and Mu Xiong's forces lay on the ground.
Helpless, Lu Yunshan watched as bodies piled up but couldn't do anything. He gritted his teeth, glaring at Cheng Kong and his companions. Meanwhile, Mu Xiong sat in the sedan chair, smiling as he observed the carnage.
At that moment, the curtain of the sedan chair was lifted, revealing Mu Xiong seated inside. He glanced at Lu Yunshan and said, "Lu Yunshan, you're quite impressive. I didn't come looking for you, but you've willingly walked into my trap. Well, well, this saves me a lot of trouble!"
"Mu Xiong, spare the chatter. Today is the day of your demise!" Lu Yunshan declared.
Mu Xiong looked around, then sneered, "Do you think you can take my life with just these people? You're underestimating my subordinates!" Lu Yunshan looked at him, then at Cheng Kong and his companions, furrowing his brow slightly. Just as he was about to say something, Mu Xiong continued, "But I must admit, there's one thing I can commend you for."
"Oh?" Lu Yunshan responded curiously.
"Today, my whereabouts were well hidden. Except for a few close associates, no one else knew. Yet, you were already aware and set up this ambush." Mu Xiong said.
"Killing you naturally requires some tactics," Lu Yunshan replied.
"Let's see what tactics you have in store!" Mu Xiong smiled.
"I'll take your life even if it costs me everything!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Good, good, good. Courage is indeed commendable, but what will you do next?" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Capture Lu Yunshan!"
Upon hearing this, Cheng Kong and his companions brandished their weapons and rushed towards Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan shouted, "Attack!"
A melee ensued. Despite Lu Yunshan having a larger number of people, they were mostly average fighters, no match for Cheng Kong's group. Swords moved like agile snakes, twin blades resembled raging waves, and silver needles danced in the air. The cries of agony filled the surroundings as people fell like leaves in a storm. In a short time, over half of both Lu Yunshan and Mu Xiong's forces lay on the ground.
Helpless, Lu Yunshan watched as bodies piled up but couldn't do anything. He gritted his teeth, glaring at Cheng Kong and his companions. Meanwhile, Mu Xiong sat in the sedan chair, smiling as he observed the carnage.
At that moment, the curtain of the sedan chair was lifted, revealing Mu Xiong seated inside. He glanced at Lu Yunshan and said, "Lu Yunshan, you're quite impressive. I didn't come looking for you, but you've willingly walked into my trap. Well, well, this saves me a lot of trouble!"
"Mu Xiong, spare the chatter. Today is the day of your demise!" Lu Yunshan declared.
Mu Xiong looked around, then sneered, "Do you think you can take my life with just these people? You're underestimating my subordinates!" Lu Yunshan looked at him, then at Cheng Kong and his companions, furrowing his brow slightly. Just as he was about to say something, Mu Xiong continued, "But I must admit, there's one thing I can commend you for."
"Oh?" Lu Yunshan responded curiously.
"Today, my whereabouts were well hidden. Except for a few close associates, no one else knew. Yet, you were already aware and set up this ambush." Mu Xiong said.
"Killing you naturally requires some tactics," Lu Yunshan replied.
"Let's see what tactics you have in store!" Mu Xiong smiled.
"I'll take your life even if it costs me everything!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Good, good, good. Courage is indeed commendable, but what will you do next?" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Capture Lu Yunshan!"
Upon hearing this, Cheng Kong and his companions brandished their weapons and rushed towards Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan shouted, "Attack!"
A melee ensued. Despite Lu Yunshan having a larger number of people, they were mostly average fighters, no match for Cheng Kong's group. Swords moved like agile snakes, twin blades resembled raging waves, and silver needles danced in the air. The cries of agony filled the surroundings as people fell like leaves in a storm. In a short time, over half of both Lu Yunshan and Mu Xiong's forces lay on the ground.
Helpless, Lu Yunshan watched as bodies piled up but couldn't do anything. He gritted his teeth, glaring at Cheng Kong and his companions. Meanwhile, Mu Xiong sat in the sedan chair, smiling as he observed the carnage.
At that moment, the curtain of the sedan chair was lifted, revealing Mu Xiong seated inside. He glanced at Lu Yunshan and said, "Lu Yunshan, you're quite impressive. I didn't come looking for you, but you've willingly walked into my trap. Well, well, this saves me a lot of trouble!"
"Mu Xiong, spare the chatter. Today is the day of your demise!" Lu Yunshan declared.
Mu Xiong looked around, then sneered, "Do you think you can take my life with just these people? You're underestimating my subordinates!" Lu Yunshan looked at him, then at Cheng Kong and his companions, furrowing his brow slightly. Just as he was about to say something, Mu Xiong continued, "But I must admit, there's one thing I can commend you for."
"Oh?" Lu Yunshan responded curiously.
"Today, my whereabouts were well hidden. Except for a few close associates, no one else knew. Yet, you were already aware and set up this ambush." Mu Xiong said.
"Killing you naturally requires some tactics," Lu Yunshan replied.
"Let's see what tactics you have in store!" Mu Xiong smiled.
"I'll take your life even if it costs me everything!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Good, good, good. Courage is indeed commendable, but what will you do next?" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Capture Lu Yunshan!"
Upon hearing this, Cheng Kong and his companions brandished their weapons and rushed towards Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan shouted, "Attack!"
A melee ensued. Despite Lu Yunshan having a larger number of people, they were mostly average fighters, no match for Cheng Kong's group. Swords moved like agile snakes, twin blades resembled raging waves, and silver needles danced in the air. The cries of agony filled the surroundings as people fell like leaves in a storm. In a short time, over half of both Lu Yunshan and Mu Xiong's forces lay on the ground.
Lu Yunshan, watching from the side, felt an urgent anxiety within himself. However, he was at a loss on how to proceed. As he witnessed the falling bodies around him, a deep sorrow overwhelmed him. Despite the profound grief, he found himself powerless and could only grit his teeth, glaring angrily at the trio. Meanwhile, Mu Xiong sat in the sedan, smiling as he observed the carnage.
At this moment, Lu Yunshan seized a bow from one of his companions and, drawing an arrow, aimed it directly at Mu Xiong. In an instant, Zou Ming reacted swiftly, extending his hand to deflect the arrow. As the arrow approached, silver needles followed suit, intercepting the arrow mid-flight. Several silver needles struck the arrow shaft, causing it to veer off course and embed itself in a wooden pillar near the sedan's door. The onlookers, including Mu Xiong, were momentarily startled, but Mu Xiong maintained his calm demeanor, continuing to smile as he gazed at the scene.
Enraged that his first arrow missed, Lu Yunshan exclaimed, "Mu Xiong, even if it means perishing together, I will take your life!" With that, he swiftly nocked another arrow and took aim at Mu Xiong. Before the arrow could reach its target, Kong Xu had closed the distance, effortlessly deflecting the arrow with a casual swing of his blade.
Witnessing this, Lu Yunshan felt a surge of frustration. Just as he was about to rally the others to attack Mu Xiong, Cheng Kong and his companions abandoned the rest and charged directly at Lu Yunshan.
Kong Xu reached Lu Yunshan first, lifting his dual blades to strike. In the crucial moment, another person rushed in front of Lu Yunshan, taking the blow. Shocked, Lu Yunshan exclaimed, "Ah Ming!"
"Yunshan, today we won't be able to kill Mu Xiong. Don't sacrifice yourself needlessly; you must go!" Ah Ming, coughing up blood, pushed Lu Yunshan away. Lu Yunshan looked at him, shaking his head in sorrow. "I won't leave. Even if it means sacrificing my life, I will kill Mu Xiong." Kong Xu, still holding his blade, prepared to attack again. Ignoring him, Ah Ming turned around and embraced Kong Xu, shouting, "Yunshan, with you, we still have hope. If you die today, who will lead them in the future, and how can our aspirations be fulfilled? Go quickly!"
Kong Xu frowned, glanced at Ah Ming, then reversed his blade, piercing through Ah Ming's back. Ah Ming screamed, and Kong Xu withdrew the blade, kicking Ah Ming away. He then charged directly towards Lu Yunshan.
"Ah Ming!" Lu Yunshan cried out in despair.
The remaining dozen or so people, supporting Lu Yunshan, retreated towards the rear. Cheng Kong and his two companions quickly closed in. One person among them shouted, "Leader Lu, you go first. We'll hold them off." With that, they rushed forward, and the others followed suit. Cheng Kong and his companions wielded their weapons skillfully, swiftly cutting down the group. In a short moment, the ground was littered with bodies in a pool of blood.
Lu Yunshan, witnessing the scene, stood still, staring at the corpses on the ground. Cheng Kong and his two companions stood not far away, glaring at him. On Mu Xiong's side, apart from Cheng Kong's group, only four individuals remained to lift the sedan. Mu Xiong gestured, and the four moved the sedan closer.
"Lu Yunshan, how is it now?" Mu Xiong chuckled.
"Hating that my subordinates lack superior martial skills, otherwise, today you would unquestionably be dead!" Lu Yunshan expressed his hatred.
"Now you have no way out. Here's a lifeline for you: reveal the whereabouts of your other accomplices, and today, I will spare your life. Countless riches and glory await you!" Mu Xiong suggested.
"At this point, words are useless. I won't spare you today, even if it costs me my life!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Why die needlessly? My offer is advantageous for you. You should consider it!" Mu Xiong said.
"Spit! Old thief, I won't spare you. Even if I become a ghost after death, I will still take your life!" Lu Yunshan cursed. After cursing, he picked up a short knife from the ground and threw it towards Mu Xiong. Cheng Kong, seeing this, leaped forward, catching the knife mid-air and discarding it on the ground.
"Since you are so stubborn, blame yourself!" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Kill!"
Upon hearing this, Zou Ming waved his hand, and several silver needles flew towards Lu Yunshan. Lu Yunshan, realizing Zou Ming's intent, closed his eyes. In that brief moment, he thought of Tianhua: someone who willingly risked his life to save others, pure-hearted and kind. Lu Yunshan sighed in his heart, "Tianhua, I won't see you again in this life. If there is a next life, I hope to meet you again and be lifelong friends."
The wind rustled quietly in his ears, and in the distance, the faint cries of birds could still be heard. Lu Yunshan stood with closed eyes for a long time, waiting for that peculiar sensation. What kind of feeling was it? He didn't know. Perhaps that feeling was the absence of feeling itself.
He felt that time was dragging on. Although he could still feel the wind blowing, he couldn't hear any voices now. He also didn't sense the pain of silver needles piercing his flesh. These flying silver needles were too slow!
Opening his eyes, Lu Yunshan saw Mu Xiong and others looking towards him. Curious, he turned his head in the direction they were staring.
The wind rustled through the leaves, making a "shush" sound. Not far behind him, a person stood on a large tree branch, smiling at him.
"Tianhua!" Lu Yunshan exclaimed in joy.
"Yunshan, are you okay?" Tianhua said.
"With you here, how could I not be okay!" Lu Yunshan laughed.
Tianhua also smiled, and suddenly, he disappeared on the spot. Lu Yunshan and Cheng Kong's group were surprised. They looked around, but there was no trace of Tianhua. In an instant, Tianhua appeared next to Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan was astonished, "Tianhua..." Cheng Kong's group also looked on in shock.
"Didn't expect you to come too!" Mu Xiong laughed.
Tianhua looked at him but remained silent.
"Are you here to kill me?" Mu Xiong asked.
"No," Tianhua replied.
"Are you here to save him?" Mu Xiong asked.
"Yes!" Tian Hua nodded.
"On that day, you easily defeated all three of Zou Ming's group. Unfortunately, I didn't witness the scene of your confrontation with them. Today, facing one against three, I wonder if you can still win effortlessly!" Mu Xiong said with a smile.
Cheng Kong and the others exchanged glances, then looked at Mu Xiong, and finally turned their heads to look at Tian Hua without saying a word.
"I came today just to save a life, not to engage in any conflicts with anyone," Tian Hua said.
"I believe a one-against-three scenario would be quite spectacular!" Mu Xiong remarked.
"Do you really have no other choice?" Tian Hua asked.
"I want to kill, and you want to save. The decision to kill or spare lies with these three. So, you have no other choice!" Mu Xiong said.
After hearing this, Tian Hua looked at Cheng Kong and the others. After a while, he said, "It seems the three of you can't refrain from fighting. It's necessary to fight, isn't it?"
Cheng Kong and Zou Ming's faces showed a slight difficulty. At this moment, Kong Xu's face was filled with triumph. He thought, "Last time, I alone was not your match. Today, with three of us teaming up, what are your chances of winning? Today, we can finally wipe away the shame from before!"
Mu Xiong chuckled twice and said, "Speaking so much is useless. Today, you only have two choices: either win and take the person away, or lose and leave the person behind!"
Lan Yunshan, on the side, nervously watched Tian Hua. Then he said, "Tian Hua, you better leave! Last time, you risked your life to save me. Today, how can I let you take such risks again? Especially today, I came here to ambush and kill Mu Xiong. Unexpectedly, due to inadequate information, I ended up losing a hundred brothers. If I die today, it will be a reckoning for them!"
"It is precisely because I saved you that today I must save you again. Otherwise, all the efforts before would be in vain. To give an explanation to the deceased, it's not about you meeting them underground, but about Mu Xiong meeting them down there. So, you have to live today, to kill Mu Xiong in the future and give your deceased brothers an explanation. This is what you should do and the best way to honor them!" Tian Hua said.
Lan Yunshan stood there, looking at Tian Hua, and said nothing more.
"Well said, it can inspire some hearts, but it is meaningless," Mu Xiong said with a smile after listening to Tian Hua's words.
"Rest assured, I will make it meaningful!" Tian Hua said.
"Alright, I hope so! We've talked for quite a long time. I think it's time for you to make a move!" Mu Xiong said with a smile.
Cheng Kong and the others heard this, and each brandished their weapons. Zou Ming swung his hand, and silver needles flew towards Tian Hua. Tian Hua extended his hand, pulling Lan Yunshan to jump to the side. Just as they stood firm, Kong Xu swung his double knives towards Tian Hua. Tian Hua hastily pushed Lan Yunshan away, twisted his body, and swiftly moved behind Kong Xu. Kong Xu quickly turned around for a strike, and Tian Hua promptly jumped away.
In a series of movements that happened in the blink of an eye, Lan Yunshan stood there dumbfounded. Mu Xiong, in his sedan chair, smiled and nodded approvingly. "Three of them joining forces and still unable to harm him in the slightest. It seems that, in this town, apart from Chang Qing, he has no rival!"
Cheng Kong and Zou Ming stood side by side, looking at Tian Hua. At this moment, they both understood: the three of them teaming up was still not enough for Tian Hua. They had exerted their full strength in the attacks, yet he effortlessly evaded them. The most crucial and terrifying thing was that he had not made a move yet!
Tian Hua smiled, looking at the three of them, then raised his head and said, "Time is running out. I think we need to wrap this up quickly, or we might miss lunch."
The three men exchanged glances, then stared at Tian Hua. Tian Hua continued to stand there, not moving, just smiling at them. Suddenly, Zou Ming jumped up and shouted, "Be careful!"
Cheng Kong and Zou Ming saw Zou Ming leaping backward and alerting them, but for some reason, they remained stunned in their spots. Just as they were puzzled, Kong Xu suddenly felt a pain in his chest, as if he had been struck hard. He yelled and flew backward. Cheng Kong saw this and was shocked. He nervously looked around, but there was nothing unusual. He cast a sidelong glance at Tian Hua and felt a sense of fear: Tian Hua was still standing there, smiling and motionless. Cheng Kong stood there, feeling the surroundings, but there was still no movement!
Mu Xiong frowned, watching this, and couldn't help but sigh: such control over objects at such a young age. It seemed that he had gained another formidable opponent, aside from Chang Qing!
Ah...
A cry of pain disrupted Mu Xiong's thoughts. He looked in the direction of the sound: Kong Xu screamed as if he had been heavily hit and flew to the side. Cheng Kong and Zou Ming, upon seeing this, were both shocked. Zou Ming furrowed his brows, shook his head, and, with both hands crossed on his chest, stood there. Tian Hua smiled, looking at the two of them, expressing gratitude.
Tian Hua then looked at Kong Xu. Kong Xu shook his head and said, "I give up!" After saying that, Kong Xu felt that he could move again. He quickly drew the double knives from his clothes and walked towards Cheng Kong and Zou Ming.
The three stood side by side, turned around, and looked at Mu Xiong, saying, "We are powerless. We hope the Lord will not punish us!"
Mu Xiong looked at the three of them and said, "Given the current situation, there is no need to punish you. Besides, today's events are not your fault."
"Can we leave now?" Tian Hua asked.
"Whatever you like!" Mu Xiong replied.
Tian Hua walked towards Lan Yunshan and said, "Yunshan, let's go!"
Lan Yunshan looked at Mu Xiong, then turned around and left with Tian Hua. Just as they took a few steps, Mu Xiong suddenly called from behind, "Tian Hua, you should seriously consider the conditions I offered last time!"
Tian Hua heard this, stopped in his tracks, turned around, and said, "I don't need to consider your conditions. However, you should seriously think about mine!"
After saying this, Tian Hua left without looking back. Mu Xiong watched their figures
and smiled. Cheng Kong and the others stood there, looking puzzled at Mu Xiong. After a while, Mu Xiong waved his hand and said, "Let's go! Let's go back!"
"Lord, aren't we going to Sunset City?" Cheng Kong asked.
"I suddenly thought of something; we won't be going to Sunset City today," Mu Xiong said.
The three of them acknowledged with a sound and each mounted their horses, leading the way back. The sedan chair followed leisurely, retracing the same path.
Tian Hua and Lan Yunshan had already entered the city. Lan Yunshan looked at Tian Hua and asked, "Tian Hua, why did you go?"
"Although you had set up an ambush in advance, Cheng Kong and the others are not ordinary. Without experts on your side, it would be challenging to kill Mu Xiong today. I was afraid something might happen to you, so I went to check. Unexpectedly, I arrived too late, only managing to save you." Tian Hua said with emotion.
"Tian Hua, I really don't know what to say. Not only can I not repay your two life-saving graces, but I also bring trouble to you." Lan Yunshan expressed gratitude.
"The first time I saved you was because I thought you were a good person, and the second time was not only because you are a good person but also because you are my friend! Since we're friends, why say all these words?" Tian Hua said.
"Alright, let's not talk about it anymore!" Lan Yunshan smiled and said.
"Don't think too much; let's go back quickly! Han's uncle's lunch is about to start!" Tian Hua said.
After that, Tian Hua quickly walked away, and Lan Yunshan hurriedly followed.
Back at the inn, when Mr. Han saw the two, he smiled and said, "Tian Hua, you're back!" Then he greeted Lan Yunshan.
"Mr. Han, disturbing you again!" Lan Yunshan said.
"Stop saying that. Tian Hua's friends are my friends too! If you don't mind, you can call me Uncle Han." Mr. Han smiled.
"Sure, Uncle Han!" Lan Yunshan said with a smile.
"Well, now that everyone is back, let's have a meal and chat while eating." Mr. Han smiled.
The three of them went to the backyard, and the food was already prepared. Little Bell was sitting at the table, and upon seeing the three, she happily exclaimed, "Finally, we can eat! "
Lan Yunshan apologized, "I've delayed everyone's mealtime!"
Without waiting for Mr. Han or Tian Hua to speak, Little Bell said, "No delay at all, this time is just right! I got hungry just now too!"
The three of them laughed. Lan Yunshan said, "Uncle Han, your daughter is really cute!"
"Little Bell, come and call Brother Yunshan!" Tian Hua said.
Little Bell shouted once, and Lan Yunshan responded. Then the three sat at the table and began to eat. Mr. Han ate quickly because he still had some things to attend to. Little Bell finished eating and went to take a nap. The old man also ate quickly, as there were still some tasks in the kitchen. In the courtyard, only Tian Hua and Lan Yunshan remained.
Tian Hua chatted with Lan Yunshan for a while. Due to more guests in the afternoon, Tian Hua asked Lan Yunshan to go to his room for a nap while he cleared the table and then went to the front and kitchen to help.
At night, the hotel closed its doors. Tian Hua cooked the food, and the five of them ate in the backyard. Mr. Han took out wine and said, "Tian Hua, you and Yunshan can have a drink!"
Tian Hua took the wine bottle and was about to pour it for Mr. Han when he said, "You two haven't seen each other for a long time; there must be a lot to talk about. So, I won't accompany you!"
Tian Hua didn't insist and only poured for Lan Yunshan and himself. After finishing the meal, Mr. Han took Little Bell inside. The old man finished eating and went back to his room.
The two drank a few glasses, and Lan Yunshan said, "Tian Hua, your alcohol tolerance is pretty good!"
"You're not bad yourself!" Tian Hua smiled.
Just as Lan Yunshan was about to say something, Tian Hua suddenly made a gesture to stop him. Then he looked alertly around, as if he had discovered something. Lan Yunshan nervously watched Tian Hua and then looked around in confusion.
The night was quiet, except for the sound of the wind rustling through the leaves. There was no sign of any movement. However, Tian Hua seemed to have sensed something for a moment, but that feeling quickly disappeared. So, Tian Hua was quite puzzled. He watched for a while, then shook his head and said, "Maybe I felt it wrong!"
"Tian Hua, what did you find?" Lan Yunshan asked.
Tian Hua was about to speak when he suddenly frowned, looked towards the roof, and said, "Since you're here, why hide?"
Lan Yunshan, upon hearing this, quickly looked towards the roof, but all he saw was darkness.
Just as Lan Yunshan was about to ask Tian Hua, he was astonished to find that there was a person at the table, wearing all black clothes and a mask on his face!
Tian Hua glanced at him and casually said, "Changqing!"
"Yunshan..." As someone lowered their voice to call out the name, Lu Yunshan quickly gestured for them to remain silent.
Deep within the dense forest, Lu Yunshan's eyes were tightly fixed on the approaching sedan chair. When it drew nearer, he waved his hand, and countless arrows shot out from the depths of the forest. Witnessing this, Cheng Kong hastily pulled on the reins and shouted, "Ambush! Be careful!"
Chaos ensued as people dodged the incoming arrows. Cheng Kong and his two companions shouted, "Protect the town lord! Don't panic! Stay focused!"
After a barrage of arrows, although Mu Xiong's sedan chair was not severely damaged, a significant number of his followers were shot down. As the attack ceased, voices echoed from the dense forest, and hundreds of people emerged, encircling Mu Xiong and his group.Lu Yunshan stood before the crowd and shouted, "Mu Xiong, it's time to pay with your life!"
Those surrounded looked at each other with fear, gazing at Lu Yunshan in awe.
Suddenly, the curtains of the sedan chair opened, revealing Mu Xiong inside. He glanced at Lu Yunshan and said, "Well, well, Lu Yunshan, I didn't go looking for you, but you've come to me willingly! Fine, this saves me a lot of trouble!"
"Mu Xiong, spare the chatter. Today is the day of your demise!" Lu Yunshan exclaimed.
Mu Xiong looked around, then sneered, "Do you think you can take my life with just these people? You're underestimating my subordinates!" Lu Yunshan looked at him, then at Cheng Kong and his companions, furrowing his brow slightly. Just as he was about to say something, Mu Xiong continued, "But I must admit, there's one thing I can commend you for."
"Oh?" Lu Yunshan responded curiously.
"Today, my whereabouts were well hidden. Except for a few close associates, no one else knew. Yet, you were already aware and set up this ambush." Mu Xiong said.
"Killing you naturally requires some tactics," Lu Yunshan replied.
"Let's see what tactics you have in store!" Mu Xiong smiled.
"I'll take your life even if it costs me everything!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Good, good, good. Courage is indeed commendable, but what will you do next?" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Capture Lu Yunshan!"
Upon hearing this, Cheng Kong and his companions brandished their weapons and rushed towards Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan shouted, "Attack!"
A melee ensued. Despite Lu Yunshan having a larger number of people, they were mostly average fighters, no match for Cheng Kong's group. Swords moved like agile snakes, twin blades resembled raging waves, and silver needles danced in the air. The cries of agony filled the surroundings as people fell like leaves in a storm. In a short time, over half of both Lu Yunshan and Mu Xiong's forces lay on the ground.
Helpless, Lu Yunshan watched as bodies piled up but couldn't do anything. He gritted his teeth, glaring at Cheng Kong and his companions. Meanwhile, Mu Xiong sat in the sedan chair, smiling as he observed the carnage.
At that moment, the curtain of the sedan chair was lifted, revealing Mu Xiong seated inside. He glanced at Lu Yunshan and said, "Lu Yunshan, you're quite impressive. I didn't come looking for you, but you've willingly walked into my trap. Well, well, this saves me a lot of trouble!"
"Mu Xiong, spare the chatter. Today is the day of your demise!" Lu Yunshan declared.
Mu Xiong looked around, then sneered, "Do you think you can take my life with just these people? You're underestimating my subordinates!" Lu Yunshan looked at him, then at Cheng Kong and his companions, furrowing his brow slightly. Just as he was about to say something, Mu Xiong continued, "But I must admit, there's one thing I can commend you for."
"Oh?" Lu Yunshan responded curiously.
"Today, my whereabouts were well hidden. Except for a few close associates, no one else knew. Yet, you were already aware and set up this ambush." Mu Xiong said.
"Killing you naturally requires some tactics," Lu Yunshan replied.
"Let's see what tactics you have in store!" Mu Xiong smiled.
"I'll take your life even if it costs me everything!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Good, good, good. Courage is indeed commendable, but what will you do next?" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Capture Lu Yunshan!"
Upon hearing this, Cheng Kong and his companions brandished their weapons and rushed towards Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan shouted, "Attack!"
A melee ensued. Despite Lu Yunshan having a larger number of people, they were mostly average fighters, no match for Cheng Kong's group. Swords moved like agile snakes, twin blades resembled raging waves, and silver needles danced in the air. The cries of agony filled the surroundings as people fell like leaves in a storm. In a short time, over half of both Lu Yunshan and Mu Xiong's forces lay on the ground.
Helpless, Lu Yunshan watched as bodies piled up but couldn't do anything. He gritted his teeth, glaring at Cheng Kong and his companions. Meanwhile, Mu Xiong sat in the sedan chair, smiling as he observed the carnage.
At that moment, the curtain of the sedan chair was lifted, revealing Mu Xiong seated inside. He glanced at Lu Yunshan and said, "Lu Yunshan, you're quite impressive. I didn't come looking for you, but you've willingly walked into my trap. Well, well, this saves me a lot of trouble!"
"Mu Xiong, spare the chatter. Today is the day of your demise!" Lu Yunshan declared.
Mu Xiong looked around, then sneered, "Do you think you can take my life with just these people? You're underestimating my subordinates!" Lu Yunshan looked at him, then at Cheng Kong and his companions, furrowing his brow slightly. Just as he was about to say something, Mu Xiong continued, "But I must admit, there's one thing I can commend you for."
"Oh?" Lu Yunshan responded curiously.
"Today, my whereabouts were well hidden. Except for a few close associates, no one else knew. Yet, you were already aware and set up this ambush." Mu Xiong said.
"Killing you naturally requires some tactics," Lu Yunshan replied.
"Let's see what tactics you have in store!" Mu Xiong smiled.
"I'll take your life even if it costs me everything!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Good, good, good. Courage is indeed commendable, but what will you do next?" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Capture Lu Yunshan!"
Upon hearing this, Cheng Kong and his companions brandished their weapons and rushed towards Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan shouted, "Attack!"
A melee ensued. Despite Lu Yunshan having a larger number of people, they were mostly average fighters, no match for Cheng Kong's group. Swords moved like agile snakes, twin blades resembled raging waves, and silver needles danced in the air. The cries of agony filled the surroundings as people fell like leaves in a storm. In a short time, over half of both Lu Yunshan and Mu Xiong's forces lay on the ground.
Helpless, Lu Yunshan watched as bodies piled up but couldn't do anything. He gritted his teeth, glaring at Cheng Kong and his companions. Meanwhile, Mu Xiong sat in the sedan chair, smiling as he observed the carnage.
At that moment, the curtain of the sedan chair was lifted, revealing Mu Xiong seated inside. He glanced at Lu Yunshan and said, "Lu Yunshan, you're quite impressive. I didn't come looking for you, but you've willingly walked into my trap. Well, well, this saves me a lot of trouble!"
"Mu Xiong, spare the chatter. Today is the day of your demise!" Lu Yunshan declared.
Mu Xiong looked around, then sneered, "Do you think you can take my life with just these people? You're underestimating my subordinates!" Lu Yunshan looked at him, then at Cheng Kong and his companions, furrowing his brow slightly. Just as he was about to say something, Mu Xiong continued, "But I must admit, there's one thing I can commend you for."
"Oh?" Lu Yunshan responded curiously.
"Today, my whereabouts were well hidden. Except for a few close associates, no one else knew. Yet, you were already aware and set up this ambush." Mu Xiong said.
"Killing you naturally requires some tactics," Lu Yunshan replied.
"Let's see what tactics you have in store!" Mu Xiong smiled.
"I'll take your life even if it costs me everything!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Good, good, good. Courage is indeed commendable, but what will you do next?" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Capture Lu Yunshan!"
Upon hearing this, Cheng Kong and his companions brandished their weapons and rushed towards Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan shouted, "Attack!"
A melee ensued. Despite Lu Yunshan having a larger number of people, they were mostly average fighters, no match for Cheng Kong's group. Swords moved like agile snakes, twin blades resembled raging waves, and silver needles danced in the air. The cries of agony filled the surroundings as people fell like leaves in a storm. In a short time, over half of both Lu Yunshan and Mu Xiong's forces lay on the ground.
Helpless, Lu Yunshan watched as bodies piled up but couldn't do anything. He gritted his teeth, glaring at Cheng Kong and his companions. Meanwhile, Mu Xiong sat in the sedan chair, smiling as he observed the carnage.
At that moment, the curtain of the sedan chair was lifted, revealing Mu Xiong seated inside. He glanced at Lu Yunshan and said, "Lu Yunshan, you're quite impressive. I didn't come looking for you, but you've willingly walked into my trap. Well, well, this saves me a lot of trouble!"
"Mu Xiong, spare the chatter. Today is the day of your demise!" Lu Yunshan declared.
Mu Xiong looked around, then sneered, "Do you think you can take my life with just these people? You're underestimating my subordinates!" Lu Yunshan looked at him, then at Cheng Kong and his companions, furrowing his brow slightly. Just as he was about to say something, Mu Xiong continued, "But I must admit, there's one thing I can commend you for."
"Oh?" Lu Yunshan responded curiously.
"Today, my whereabouts were well hidden. Except for a few close associates, no one else knew. Yet, you were already aware and set up this ambush." Mu Xiong said.
"Killing you naturally requires some tactics," Lu Yunshan replied.
"Let's see what tactics you have in store!" Mu Xiong smiled.
"I'll take your life even if it costs me everything!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Good, good, good. Courage is indeed commendable, but what will you do next?" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Capture Lu Yunshan!"
Upon hearing this, Cheng Kong and his companions brandished their weapons and rushed towards Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan shouted, "Attack!"
A melee ensued. Despite Lu Yunshan having a larger number of people, they were mostly average fighters, no match for Cheng Kong's group. Swords moved like agile snakes, twin blades resembled raging waves, and silver needles danced in the air. The cries of agony filled the surroundings as people fell like leaves in a storm. In a short time, over half of both Lu Yunshan and Mu Xiong's forces lay on the ground.
Helpless, Lu Yunshan watched as bodies piled up but couldn't do anything. He gritted his teeth, glaring at Cheng Kong and his companions. Meanwhile, Mu Xiong sat in the sedan chair, smiling as he observed the carnage.
At that moment, the curtain of the sedan chair was lifted, revealing Mu Xiong seated inside. He glanced at Lu Yunshan and said, "Lu Yunshan, you're quite impressive. I didn't come looking for you, but you've willingly walked into my trap. Well, well, this saves me a lot of trouble!"
"Mu Xiong, spare the chatter. Today is the day of your demise!" Lu Yunshan declared.
Mu Xiong looked around, then sneered, "Do you think you can take my life with just these people? You're underestimating my subordinates!" Lu Yunshan looked at him, then at Cheng Kong and his companions, furrowing his brow slightly. Just as he was about to say something, Mu Xiong continued, "But I must admit, there's one thing I can commend you for."
"Oh?" Lu Yunshan responded curiously.
"Today, my whereabouts were well hidden. Except for a few close associates, no one else knew. Yet, you were already aware and set up this ambush." Mu Xiong said.
"Killing you naturally requires some tactics," Lu Yunshan replied.
"Let's see what tactics you have in store!" Mu Xiong smiled.
"I'll take your life even if it costs me everything!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Good, good, good. Courage is indeed commendable, but what will you do next?" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Capture Lu Yunshan!"
Upon hearing this, Cheng Kong and his companions brandished their weapons and rushed towards Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan shouted, "Attack!"
A melee ensued. Despite Lu Yunshan having a larger number of people, they were mostly average fighters, no match for Cheng Kong's group. Swords moved like agile snakes, twin blades resembled raging waves, and silver needles danced in the air. The cries of agony filled the surroundings as people fell like leaves in a storm. In a short time, over half of both Lu Yunshan and Mu Xiong's forces lay on the ground.
Lu Yunshan, watching from the side, felt an urgent anxiety within himself. However, he was at a loss on how to proceed. As he witnessed the falling bodies around him, a deep sorrow overwhelmed him. Despite the profound grief, he found himself powerless and could only grit his teeth, glaring angrily at the trio. Meanwhile, Mu Xiong sat in the sedan, smiling as he observed the carnage.
At this moment, Lu Yunshan seized a bow from one of his companions and, drawing an arrow, aimed it directly at Mu Xiong. In an instant, Zou Ming reacted swiftly, extending his hand to deflect the arrow. As the arrow approached, silver needles followed suit, intercepting the arrow mid-flight. Several silver needles struck the arrow shaft, causing it to veer off course and embed itself in a wooden pillar near the sedan's door. The onlookers, including Mu Xiong, were momentarily startled, but Mu Xiong maintained his calm demeanor, continuing to smile as he gazed at the scene.
Enraged that his first arrow missed, Lu Yunshan exclaimed, "Mu Xiong, even if it means perishing together, I will take your life!" With that, he swiftly nocked another arrow and took aim at Mu Xiong. Before the arrow could reach its target, Kong Xu had closed the distance, effortlessly deflecting the arrow with a casual swing of his blade.
Witnessing this, Lu Yunshan felt a surge of frustration. Just as he was about to rally the others to attack Mu Xiong, Cheng Kong and his companions abandoned the rest and charged directly at Lu Yunshan.
Kong Xu reached Lu Yunshan first, lifting his dual blades to strike. In the crucial moment, another person rushed in front of Lu Yunshan, taking the blow. Shocked, Lu Yunshan exclaimed, "Ah Ming!"
"Yunshan, today we won't be able to kill Mu Xiong. Don't sacrifice yourself needlessly; you must go!" Ah Ming, coughing up blood, pushed Lu Yunshan away. Lu Yunshan looked at him, shaking his head in sorrow. "I won't leave. Even if it means sacrificing my life, I will kill Mu Xiong." Kong Xu, still holding his blade, prepared to attack again. Ignoring him, Ah Ming turned around and embraced Kong Xu, shouting, "Yunshan, with you, we still have hope. If you die today, who will lead them in the future, and how can our aspirations be fulfilled? Go quickly!"
Kong Xu frowned, glanced at Ah Ming, then reversed his blade, piercing through Ah Ming's back. Ah Ming screamed, and Kong Xu withdrew the blade, kicking Ah Ming away. He then charged directly towards Lu Yunshan.
"Ah Ming!" Lu Yunshan cried out in despair.
The remaining dozen or so people, supporting Lu Yunshan, retreated towards the rear. Cheng Kong and his two companions quickly closed in. One person among them shouted, "Leader Lu, you go first. We'll hold them off." With that, they rushed forward, and the others followed suit. Cheng Kong and his companions wielded their weapons skillfully, swiftly cutting down the group. In a short moment, the ground was littered with bodies in a pool of blood.
Lu Yunshan, witnessing the scene, stood still, staring at the corpses on the ground. Cheng Kong and his two companions stood not far away, glaring at him. On Mu Xiong's side, apart from Cheng Kong's group, only four individuals remained to lift the sedan. Mu Xiong gestured, and the four moved the sedan closer.
"Lu Yunshan, how is it now?" Mu Xiong chuckled.
"Hating that my subordinates lack superior martial skills, otherwise, today you would unquestionably be dead!" Lu Yunshan expressed his hatred.
"Now you have no way out. Here's a lifeline for you: reveal the whereabouts of your other accomplices, and today, I will spare your life. Countless riches and glory await you!" Mu Xiong suggested.
"At this point, words are useless. I won't spare you today, even if it costs me my life!" Lu Yunshan declared sternly.
"Why die needlessly? My offer is advantageous for you. You should consider it!" Mu Xiong said.
"Spit! Old thief, I won't spare you. Even if I become a ghost after death, I will still take your life!" Lu Yunshan cursed. After cursing, he picked up a short knife from the ground and threw it towards Mu Xiong. Cheng Kong, seeing this, leaped forward, catching the knife mid-air and discarding it on the ground.
"Since you are so stubborn, blame yourself!" Mu Xiong said, waving his hand. "Kill!"
Upon hearing this, Zou Ming waved his hand, and several silver needles flew towards Lu Yunshan. Lu Yunshan, realizing Zou Ming's intent, closed his eyes. In that brief moment, he thought of Tianhua: someone who willingly risked his life to save others, pure-hearted and kind. Lu Yunshan sighed in his heart, "Tianhua, I won't see you again in this life. If there is a next life, I hope to meet you again and be lifelong friends."
The wind rustled quietly in his ears, and in the distance, the faint cries of birds could still be heard. Lu Yunshan stood with closed eyes for a long time, waiting for that peculiar sensation. What kind of feeling was it? He didn't know. Perhaps that feeling was the absence of feeling itself.
He felt that time was dragging on. Although he could still feel the wind blowing, he couldn't hear any voices now. He also didn't sense the pain of silver needles piercing his flesh. These flying silver needles were too slow!
Opening his eyes, Lu Yunshan saw Mu Xiong and others looking towards him. Curious, he turned his head in the direction they were staring.
The wind rustled through the leaves, making a "shush" sound. Not far behind him, a person stood on a large tree branch, smiling at him.
"Tianhua!" Lu Yunshan exclaimed in joy.
"Yunshan, are you okay?" Tianhua said.
"With you here, how could I not be okay!" Lu Yunshan laughed.
Tianhua also smiled, and suddenly, he disappeared on the spot. Lu Yunshan and Cheng Kong's group were surprised. They looked around, but there was no trace of Tianhua. In an instant, Tianhua appeared next to Lu Yunshan. Seeing this, Lu Yunshan was astonished, "Tianhua..." Cheng Kong's group also looked on in shock.
"Didn't expect you to come too!" Mu Xiong laughed.
Tianhua looked at him but remained silent.
"Are you here to kill me?" Mu Xiong asked.
"No," Tianhua replied.
"Are you here to save him?" Mu Xiong asked.
"Yes!" Tian Hua nodded.
"On that day, you easily defeated all three of Zou Ming's group. Unfortunately, I didn't witness the scene of your confrontation with them. Today, facing one against three, I wonder if you can still win effortlessly!" Mu Xiong said with a smile.
Cheng Kong and the others exchanged glances, then looked at Mu Xiong, and finally turned their heads to look at Tian Hua without saying a word.
"I came today just to save a life, not to engage in any conflicts with anyone," Tian Hua said.
"I believe a one-against-three scenario would be quite spectacular!" Mu Xiong remarked.
"Do you really have no other choice?" Tian Hua asked.
"I want to kill, and you want to save. The decision to kill or spare lies with these three. So, you have no other choice!" Mu Xiong said.
After hearing this, Tian Hua looked at Cheng Kong and the others. After a while, he said, "It seems the three of you can't refrain from fighting. It's necessary to fight, isn't it?"
Cheng Kong and Zou Ming's faces showed a slight difficulty. At this moment, Kong Xu's face was filled with triumph. He thought, "Last time, I alone was not your match. Today, with three of us teaming up, what are your chances of winning? Today, we can finally wipe away the shame from before!"
Mu Xiong chuckled twice and said, "Speaking so much is useless. Today, you only have two choices: either win and take the person away, or lose and leave the person behind!"
Lan Yunshan, on the side, nervously watched Tian Hua. Then he said, "Tian Hua, you better leave! Last time, you risked your life to save me. Today, how can I let you take such risks again? Especially today, I came here to ambush and kill Mu Xiong. Unexpectedly, due to inadequate information, I ended up losing a hundred brothers. If I die today, it will be a reckoning for them!"
"It is precisely because I saved you that today I must save you again. Otherwise, all the efforts before would be in vain. To give an explanation to the deceased, it's not about you meeting them underground, but about Mu Xiong meeting them down there. So, you have to live today, to kill Mu Xiong in the future and give your deceased brothers an explanation. This is what you should do and the best way to honor them!" Tian Hua said.
Lan Yunshan stood there, looking at Tian Hua, and said nothing more.
"Well said, it can inspire some hearts, but it is meaningless," Mu Xiong said with a smile after listening to Tian Hua's words.
"Rest assured, I will make it meaningful!" Tian Hua said.
"Alright, I hope so! We've talked for quite a long time. I think it's time for you to make a move!" Mu Xiong said with a smile.
Cheng Kong and the others heard this, and each brandished their weapons. Zou Ming swung his hand, and silver needles flew towards Tian Hua. Tian Hua extended his hand, pulling Lan Yunshan to jump to the side. Just as they stood firm, Kong Xu swung his double knives towards Tian Hua. Tian Hua hastily pushed Lan Yunshan away, twisted his body, and swiftly moved behind Kong Xu. Kong Xu quickly turned around for a strike, and Tian Hua promptly jumped away.
In a series of movements that happened in the blink of an eye, Lan Yunshan stood there dumbfounded. Mu Xiong, in his sedan chair, smiled and nodded approvingly. "Three of them joining forces and still unable to harm him in the slightest. It seems that, in this town, apart from Chang Qing, he has no rival!"
Cheng Kong and Zou Ming stood side by side, looking at Tian Hua. At this moment, they both understood: the three of them teaming up was still not enough for Tian Hua. They had exerted their full strength in the attacks, yet he effortlessly evaded them. The most crucial and terrifying thing was that he had not made a move yet!
Tian Hua smiled, looking at the three of them, then raised his head and said, "Time is running out. I think we need to wrap this up quickly, or we might miss lunch."
The three men exchanged glances, then stared at Tian Hua. Tian Hua continued to stand there, not moving, just smiling at them. Suddenly, Zou Ming jumped up and shouted, "Be careful!"
Cheng Kong and Zou Ming saw Zou Ming leaping backward and alerting them, but for some reason, they remained stunned in their spots. Just as they were puzzled, Kong Xu suddenly felt a pain in his chest, as if he had been struck hard. He yelled and flew backward. Cheng Kong saw this and was shocked. He nervously looked around, but there was nothing unusual. He cast a sidelong glance at Tian Hua and felt a sense of fear: Tian Hua was still standing there, smiling and motionless. Cheng Kong stood there, feeling the surroundings, but there was still no movement!
Mu Xiong frowned, watching this, and couldn't help but sigh: such control over objects at such a young age. It seemed that he had gained another formidable opponent, aside from Chang Qing!
Ah...
A cry of pain disrupted Mu Xiong's thoughts. He looked in the direction of the sound: Kong Xu screamed as if he had been heavily hit and flew to the side. Cheng Kong and Zou Ming, upon seeing this, were both shocked. Zou Ming furrowed his brows, shook his head, and, with both hands crossed on his chest, stood there. Tian Hua smiled, looking at the two of them, expressing gratitude.
Tian Hua then looked at Kong Xu. Kong Xu shook his head and said, "I give up!" After saying that, Kong Xu felt that he could move again. He quickly drew the double knives from his clothes and walked towards Cheng Kong and Zou Ming.
The three stood side by side, turned around, and looked at Mu Xiong, saying, "We are powerless. We hope the Lord will not punish us!"
Mu Xiong looked at the three of them and said, "Given the current situation, there is no need to punish you. Besides, today's events are not your fault."
"Can we leave now?" Tian Hua asked.
"Whatever you like!" Mu Xiong replied.
Tian Hua walked towards Lan Yunshan and said, "Yunshan, let's go!"
Lan Yunshan looked at Mu Xiong, then turned around and left with Tian Hua. Just as they took a few steps, Mu Xiong suddenly called from behind, "Tian Hua, you should seriously consider the conditions I offered last time!"
Tian Hua heard this, stopped in his tracks, turned around, and said, "I don't need to consider your conditions. However, you should seriously think about mine!"
After saying this, Tian Hua left without looking back. Mu Xiong watched their figures
and smiled. Cheng Kong and the others stood there, looking puzzled at Mu Xiong. After a while, Mu Xiong waved his hand and said, "Let's go! Let's go back!"
"Lord, aren't we going to Sunset City?" Cheng Kong asked.
"I suddenly thought of something; we won't be going to Sunset City today," Mu Xiong said.
The three of them acknowledged with a sound and each mounted their horses, leading the way back. The sedan chair followed leisurely, retracing the same path.
Tian Hua and Lan Yunshan had already entered the city. Lan Yunshan looked at Tian Hua and asked, "Tian Hua, why did you go?"
"Although you had set up an ambush in advance, Cheng Kong and the others are not ordinary. Without experts on your side, it would be challenging to kill Mu Xiong today. I was afraid something might happen to you, so I went to check. Unexpectedly, I arrived too late, only managing to save you." Tian Hua said with emotion.
"Tian Hua, I really don't know what to say. Not only can I not repay your two life-saving graces, but I also bring trouble to you." Lan Yunshan expressed gratitude.
"The first time I saved you was because I thought you were a good person, and the second time was not only because you are a good person but also because you are my friend! Since we're friends, why say all these words?" Tian Hua said.
"Alright, let's not talk about it anymore!" Lan Yunshan smiled and said.
"Don't think too much; let's go back quickly! Han's uncle's lunch is about to start!" Tian Hua said.
After that, Tian Hua quickly walked away, and Lan Yunshan hurriedly followed.
Back at the inn, when Mr. Han saw the two, he smiled and said, "Tian Hua, you're back!" Then he greeted Lan Yunshan.
"Mr. Han, disturbing you again!" Lan Yunshan said.
"Stop saying that. Tian Hua's friends are my friends too! If you don't mind, you can call me Uncle Han." Mr. Han smiled.
"Sure, Uncle Han!" Lan Yunshan said with a smile.
"Well, now that everyone is back, let's have a meal and chat while eating." Mr. Han smiled.
The three of them went to the backyard, and the food was already prepared. Little Bell was sitting at the table, and upon seeing the three, she happily exclaimed, "Finally, we can eat! "
Lan Yunshan apologized, "I've delayed everyone's mealtime!"
Without waiting for Mr. Han or Tian Hua to speak, Little Bell said, "No delay at all, this time is just right! I got hungry just now too!"
The three of them laughed. Lan Yunshan said, "Uncle Han, your daughter is really cute!"
"Little Bell, come and call Brother Yunshan!" Tian Hua said.
Little Bell shouted once, and Lan Yunshan responded. Then the three sat at the table and began to eat. Mr. Han ate quickly because he still had some things to attend to. Little Bell finished eating and went to take a nap. The old man also ate quickly, as there were still some tasks in the kitchen. In the courtyard, only Tian Hua and Lan Yunshan remained.
Tian Hua chatted with Lan Yunshan for a while. Due to more guests in the afternoon, Tian Hua asked Lan Yunshan to go to his room for a nap while he cleared the table and then went to the front and kitchen to help.
At night, the hotel closed its doors. Tian Hua cooked the food, and the five of them ate in the backyard. Mr. Han took out wine and said, "Tian Hua, you and Yunshan can have a drink!"
Tian Hua took the wine bottle and was about to pour it for Mr. Han when he said, "You two haven't seen each other for a long time; there must be a lot to talk about. So, I won't accompany you!"
Tian Hua didn't insist and only poured for Lan Yunshan and himself. After finishing the meal, Mr. Han took Little Bell inside. The old man finished eating and went back to his room.
The two drank a few glasses, and Lan Yunshan said, "Tian Hua, your alcohol tolerance is pretty good!"
"You're not bad yourself!" Tian Hua smiled.
Just as Lan Yunshan was about to say something, Tian Hua suddenly made a gesture to stop him. Then he looked alertly around, as if he had discovered something. Lan Yunshan nervously watched Tian Hua and then looked around in confusion.
The night was quiet, except for the sound of the wind rustling through the leaves. There was no sign of any movement. However, Tian Hua seemed to have sensed something for a moment, but that feeling quickly disappeared. So, Tian Hua was quite puzzled. He watched for a while, then shook his head and said, "Maybe I felt it wrong!"
"Tian Hua, what did you find?" Lan Yunshan asked.
Tian Hua was about to speak when he suddenly frowned, looked towards the roof, and said, "Since you're here, why hide?"
Lan Yunshan, upon hearing this, quickly looked towards the roof, but all he saw was darkness.
Just as Lan Yunshan was about to ask Tian Hua, he was astonished to find that there was a person at the table, wearing all black clothes and a mask on his face!
Tian Hua glanced at him and casually said, "Changqing!"
