"In the past, the thirteen tribes waged war against each other incessantly for many years. This situation persisted for decades until they grew weary of the conflicts. Finally, the thirteen tribes decided to come together for peace, pledging not to disturb one another. Each tribe sent its representatives to a meeting where they decided to establish three cities and a town. Important figures from each tribe assumed the roles of city lords, town masters, and other positions. After the meeting, the tribes ceased their wars, and with everyone's efforts, the Three Cities and a Town were established," Boss Han explained.
"The Three Cities and a Town were created by everyone. How did it become a tool for Yuxing Tian to unify the thirteen tribes?" Tianhua asked in surprise.
"That's because Yuxing Tian deceived everyone. After the establishment of the Three Cities and a Town, he suddenly launched a war. Some experts and important figures from other tribes were either captured or killed. The survivors either submitted to him willingly or were forced to do so. After that, he smoothly took control of the Three Cities and a Town," Boss Han passionately recounted.
"Perhaps some people survived back then," Tianhua remarked.
"Rumors say they all died, while others claim that some of them are still alive. But I believe they are all dead," Boss Han said.
"Why do you think so, Uncle Han?" Tianhua asked.
"The fifty years of peace in the Three Cities and a Town say it all. When I was young, my parents told us stories about the Three Cities and a Town. Think about it, if they were still alive, why haven't we seen any trace of them in these decades?" Boss Han explained.
"Maybe they are hiding somewhere, waiting for an opportunity," Tianhua suggested.
Boss Han chuckled. "After fifty years, Yuxing Tian's lackeys, who only know how to enjoy themselves without caring about the people, have turned this place into a miserable state. If they were waiting for an opportunity, wouldn't this be the best time?"
"Maybe their power is too weak, like those with Lu Yunshan!" Tianhua said.
"Those people are different from Lu Yunshan. Although Lu Yunshan can now gather a crowd with a call, they are just ordinary people. Despite their large numbers, if they encounter Yuxing Tian, having more people won't help! What matters is individual capability. In the thirteen tribes back then, each tribe had individuals with special abilities. They were all formidable figures, capable of facing thousands alone. The war relied on them, not ordinary citizens who were mere spectators. Unfortunately, those people disappeared, and the world no longer sees those special abilities. What remains are easily ruled ordinary folks!" Boss Han sighed.
"So, you're saying that there is no one in the current Three Cities and a Town who can defeat Yuxing Tian?" Tianhua asked.
Boss Han raised his wine glass, took a deep sip, thought for a moment, and then said, "Who knows."
"Uncle Han, why wouldn't you know? From what you just said, you should be quite familiar with Yuxing Tian!" Tianhua anxiously inquired.
"How would I know him! Everything I just said is based on rumors. As for those so-called special abilities, who knows if they are true? Ask the people of the Three Cities and a Town; who knows about those!" Boss Han chuckled.
"But I feel like those things are real!" Tianhua insisted.
"After talking about those stories for so long, I'm a bit tired now. Tianhua, I'm going to sleep!" Boss Han said.
Tianhua wanted to say something, but he remained silent, just acknowledging with a nod. Boss Han got up and walked towards his room. After taking a few steps, he suddenly turned around and said with a smile, "Tianhua, those are just legends. If you take them seriously, you're just bothering yourself. Haha... get some rest soon too!"
After Boss Han left, Tianhua looked at his retreating figure, feeling excited in his heart. Although Boss Han said that what he mentioned earlier was just hearsay, everything felt so real to him! It seems that Dad and the others living in seclusion there also have hidden secrets!
Tianhua sat there alone, lost in thought. When he snapped out of it, he saw a bit of wine left in the glass. He picked it up, drank it, and then stood up to tidy up the table. After finishing, he walked towards his room. Entering the room, Tianhua lay on the bed, closed his eyes, and soon fell asleep.
When it was just beginning to get light, Tianhua got up, realizing that his head was still slightly throbbing. Sitting on the bed for a while, waiting until he felt better, he got up and went to the courtyard, looking at the clean table. He smiled, went to wash his face, and prepared breakfast, making two bowls of sobering soup.
The morning seemed to follow the usual routine. Tianhua sat at the table, waiting for the others to wake up. After they got up, they had their meal, and then Tianhua opened the front door, waiting for customers.
For someone else, they might have grown tired of such a life, but Tianhua didn't feel any sense of weariness. Initially, he thought about exploring the scenery of the Three Cities and a Town, but since he learned about the connection between this world and the village, he lost interest in wandering around. Now, the thing he most wanted to do was uncover the truth from that time.
When every day repeated the same actions and events, time seemed to pass quickly. In the blink of an eye, the sky darkened, and the pedestrians on the street gradually diminished. The same was true for the inn.
Tianhua and the others sat in the backyard, finishing their dinner. Boss Han looked at Tianhua and said, "Tianhua, would you like another drink tonight?"
"Uncle Han, I think I'll pass. I had a bit too much last night. Let's take a break for a few days before drinking again!" Tianhua smiled and said.
"Yeah! It's been a while since I've had so much to drink," Boss Han reminisced.
"After the sobering soup, I still feel a bit tipsy!" Tianhua laughed.
"Tianhua, did you find Uncle Han's story last night exciting?" Boss Han asked with a smile.
"Exciting, I feel like it's as real as it can be," Tianhua said.
"Really, I think so too! But most of it is probably fabricated! After everything became settled, some things were mythologized," Boss Han chuckled.
"Yeah, probably!" Tianhua nodded.
The two chatted while eating, and after finishing the meal, they chatted for a while longer. Boss Han, leading Little Bell, went to sleep, and the elderly man also returned to his room. Tianhua sat alone, watching the dark sky. After a while, he stood up, tidied up the table, and walked towards the backyard wall. Arriving at the wall, Tianhua leaped over.
Outside the wall, Tianhua looked around and quickly left. He walked quickly through the town and soon arrived at a magnificent mansion gate. Tianhua found a secluded spot and observed the entrance: lanterns hung high outside the gate, brightly illumin
ating the surroundings. Two individuals stood solemnly on either side of the gate.
Tianhua circled around the gate and reached a quiet wall. He looked around and then leaped, jumping inside the wall.
Tianhua stood still, anxiously surveying his surroundings. This place seemed to be a garden, even more pleasant than the scenery at the old man's house. After looking around for a while, confusion suddenly filled his mind: despite the well-lit atmosphere, there wasn't a single person guarding this place!
Carefully navigating, Tianhua walked for a while. His confusion deepened as he noticed that the entire mansion was well-lit, making it look like daytime, yet there was no one visible to stand guard.
With caution, Tianhua continued walking. Suddenly, he saw a room with lights on. He thought for a moment: the places he had passed moments ago had no light in the rooms, but the light in this room indicated the presence of someone. He decided to investigate.
Tianhua walked slowly toward that room. Just as he approached, four figures quickly flashed in front of him. Tianhua was taken aback, hastily looking around, but he saw nothing. Shaking his head, he continued walking. Suddenly, he leaped backward.
As Tianhua steadied himself, four people appeared on the empty space in front of him. All four were masked and dressed in black clothes, with only their eyes visible. Tianhua looked at them, pondered for a moment, and said, "No wonder such a large place has no guards. It turns out there are experts like you!"
"Who dares to intrude into the Lord's mansion at night?" one of them asked.
"A sensible person should surrender quickly, sparing themselves from suffering," another said.
"Sparing myself from suffering? So, if I surrender, you'll let me go? Is that it?" Tianhua asked with a smile.
The four exchanged glances, and one of them said, "Surrendering will allow you to die more quickly. Otherwise, you'll find yourself unable to live or die!"
"What kind of logic is this? You just said surrendering would spare me from suffering, but now you want me to die quickly. Which one of you four should I listen to?" Tianhua questioned with confusion.
"Kid, less nonsense!" one of them scowled and then lunged at Tianhua.
天hua dodged the attack and leaped aside. The assailant, undeterred, prepared for another strike. Tianhua waved his hand and said, "Hold on, everyone. Tonight, I've only come to inquire about something from Mu Xiong. I really don't want to engage with you four. So, could you please step aside and make it convenient for me?"
"Bold! How dare you address the town lord by his name!" one person exclaimed loudly.
"It's just a name! Why get so worked up? Besides, names are meant to be used, not hidden away," Tianhua replied with a smile.
"Youngster, trespassing into the town lord's residence at night is a capital offense! Giving you a swift death is already a mercy!" another person declared.
"Is there really no room for negotiation?" Tianhua inquired.
"Other than death, you have no other choice!" one person declared with each word.
"Why must you force me like this?" Tianhua sighed helplessly.
As soon as Tianhua finished speaking, one person lunged at him. Tianhua evaded the attack with a swift move. Seeing this, the other three also attacked simultaneously. Tianhua skillfully dodged left and right among the three, and their attacks couldn't touch him. However, the remaining person observed a slight opening when Tianhua dodged, swiftly drew a long sword from his waist, and thrust it toward Tianhua.
The thrust was precise and fast, closing in on Tianhua. Yet, the sword found empty air just as it was about to strike. In an instant, Tianhua's body vanished. The four individuals were taken aback.
They halted their attacks, staring at Tianhua standing at a distance. The person who had thrust the sword felt a jolt of surprise; what they considered swift movements were easily surpassed by this youngster.
"How about it, gentlemen? Can I meet with the town lord now?" Tianhua asked.
The four exchanged glances. Suddenly, three of them drew their long swords from their waists simultaneously. With swords in hand, they faced Tianhua. Tianhua looked at them, shook his head helplessly, and gestured with a nod.
The four men gave each other a signal, then simultaneously lunged at Tianhua. This time, their movements were even faster than before. In the light, their figures seemed to vanish instantly!
Tianhua stood there, feeling the direction of the four swords approaching.
A flash of cold light, a sword aimed at the face, another at the back, one at the side, and the last at the lower body. Four swords simultaneously attacked from four directions, coming quickly. When the swords reached him, Tianhua twisted his body, avoiding all four attacks. However, as soon as Tianhua stabilized, the four swords struck again. This time, the attack was different, as if the four were weaving a massive sword net, enclosing Tianhua within. He dodged left and right but remained trapped within their sword circle, unable to escape.
Tianhua began to feel anxious. Although their attacks couldn't harm him, he couldn't break free either. If they continued like this and someone heard the commotion, their numbers might increase, or Mu Xiong might leave. This would make tonight's efforts in vain. It seemed he had to take action!
Tianhua suddenly stood still. The four men hesitated for a moment but didn't stop their attacks. Four swords simultaneously thrust forward. Yet, just before the swords reached Tianhua, they stopped their assault. The four men, pushing their swords, looked at each other in surprise. Suddenly, they felt a powerful force coming at them, and all four were knocked away.
As they were sent flying, one of them collapsed without saying a word. The other three, startled, looked at Tianhua.
"He just fainted! No need to worry," Tianhua said as he watched the three.
Hearing this, the three became even more puzzled. They had all been knocked back simultaneously, yet three of them were fine while one had fainted. How did this happen?
Suddenly, one person cried out. Before he could say anything, he slumped to the ground, seemingly losing consciousness.
The remaining two looked at each other and then at Tianhua. Their long swords were trembling slightly. They stood there, a bit at a loss.
"I didn't want to resort to violence, but tonight I really have some matters to discuss with Mu Xiong. So, sorry about this!" Tianhua said.
Hearing this, the two felt a tightening in their hearts. Nervously scanning their surroundings, they found no signs of disturbance. Suddenly, one of them seemed to sense something, but the feeling was fleeting. Before he could think about it, he lost consciousness and fell to the ground.
The last person stared at Tianhua, finding it hard to believe his eyes. He hadn't moved, yet the three comrades had fainted. How could a person's speed reach such a level?
These questions lingered in his mind, but he wouldn't find answers.
Tianhua looked at the four individuals lying on the ground, shook his head, and walked towards the well-lit room. Approaching the door, Tianhua hesitated for a moment before pushing it open.
Upon opening the door, Tianhua saw Mu Xiong sitting inside, smiling at him.
"Please, have a seat!" Mu Xiong said with a smile.
Tianhua looked at him, found a chair, and sat down. At this moment, only Mu Xiong and Tianhua were in the room, leaving Tianhua puzzled.
"The fight outside just now was quite spectacular!" Mu Xiong remarked.
"You saw it too?" Tianhua asked.
"Not with my own eyes, but anyone who can defeat those four and enter this room has to be extraordinary," Mu Xiong said.
"Enough small talk. I came tonight with a few questions for you," Tianhua said.
"Oh, it seems we still have much to discuss!" Mu Xiong said with a smile.
"You're wrong. We don't have much to discuss. I just have some questions to ask," Tianhua clarified.
"Alright, alright. Go ahead!" Mu Xiong said, smiling.
"I want to ask about the events leading to the establishment of the Three Cities and a Town by the thirteen tribes," Tianhua asked sternly.
"The events leading to the establishment of the Three Cities and a Town? What exactly are you referring to?" Mu Xiong inquired.
"The process of the thirteen tribes establishing the Three Cities and a Town," Tianhua specified.
"Since that's the case, how about we also discuss the matter we talked about before?" Mu Xiong suggested.
"We have nothing to discuss. I only have questions," Tianhua insisted.
"In that case, how should we proceed? I can answer your questions, but who will answer mine?" Mu Xiong said with a smile.
"Your questions are none of my concern," Tianhua replied.
"Haha. It seems you still need to think it over carefully," Mu Xiong said.
"There's no need for me to think about it!" Tianhua asserted.
"To gain something, you must be willing to give up something," Mu Xiong said.
Tianhua looked at him, pondered for a moment, and said, "So, are you unwilling to say anything tonight?"
"Some words become tiresome
when repeated too often," Mu Xiong said, smiling.
"What if I insist that you must say something tonight?" Tianhua stared at Mu Xiong.
"Young man, nothing is as easy as it seems!" Mu Xiong said with a smile.
Tianhua looked at Mu Xiong, who was smiling at him. After a moment, Tianhua stood up without saying a word and walked towards the door. Tianhua opened the door, and just as one foot stepped outside, Mu Xiong spoke from behind, "You can go back and think it over. I'm available anytime."
Tianhua paused for a moment, said nothing, and walked away. Mu Xiong watched his departing figure, his brows furrowing.
With Tianhua out of sight, Mu Xiong loudly called out, "Come!"
A person quickly entered, saying, "Town Lord, what are your orders!"
Mu Xiong waved his hand, and the person approached. Mu Xiong whispered something to him, and the person nodded, saying, "Yes, I'll go right away."
After the person left, Mu Xiong sat alone in the room, contemplating for a long time. Suddenly, he laughed, "Things seem to be developing faster than imagined!"
Mu Xiong spoke, sat there for a while, then stood up, yawned, and turned to walk inside. The room remained brightly lit.
Tianhua emerged from Mu Xiong's room and headed straight for the main gate. As he stepped out, the two guards, surprised, stared at Tianhua. Glancing at each other, one of them said in confusion, "You..."
Tianhua ignored them and continued walking. The two guards remained bewildered behind.
Tianhua walked alone in the darkness, reflecting in his mind. If he had taken action just now, what would have happened? Would Changqing or someone else have appeared? Judging by his demeanor, it seemed like he had no reservations about confronting Tianhua. Could he be a formidable expert?
Lost in his thoughts, Tianhua suddenly chuckled, laughing at himself. He mocked his original innocent intention of exploring and having fun in this place, now transformed into something unexpected. Perhaps everything was predestined!
Unconsciously, he reached the back courtyard of the tavern. Tianhua leaped in, standing silently in the courtyard. Looking towards Han's room, he quietly walked towards his own room. He gently pushed the door open, entered, closed the door softly, and then lay on the bed, closing his eyes. Tonight, he had added a bit more trouble to his mind.
The next morning, when Tianhua opened the door, a familiar carriage was parked outside. Seeing Tianhua, a person from the carriage hurriedly got off and said, "Young Master, my young lady invites you to the tavern for a meeting tonight."
"Okay, understood!" Tianhua replied.
The person, upon hearing this, smiled, bid farewell to Tianhua, mounted the carriage, and drove away with a crack of the whip.
Tianhua watched the carriage depart until it disappeared. Originally, he was reluctant to accept Mu Rong Feiyan's invitation, but in these past few days, for some reason, whenever he felt troubled, his mind involuntarily turned to Mu Rong Feiyan. Perhaps in her presence, his heart could find some peace.
At night, without saying goodbye to Han, Tianhua left the courtyard after everyone had gone to sleep. Leaping over the wall, he arrived quickly at the "Heavenly Fragrance Pavilion." When Tianhua entered, it was just like before. As he pushed open the door, Mu Rong Feiyan, with a smile, greeted him, "Tianhua, you finally came. I've been waiting for a long time. I thought you might have some business and wouldn't come tonight!"
"It did indeed delay me for a bit. I apologize for keeping you waiting," Tianhua said.
Smiling, Mu Rong Feiyan led Tianhua to a seat and attentively poured wine for both of them. This time, their meeting was different from the previous ones. Tianhua was noticeably more enthusiastic, surprising Mu Rong Feiyan.
"Tianhua, we've known each other for so long, and I still don't know where you're from," Mu Rong Feiyan said with a smile while pouring wine for Tianhua.
"Where I'm from..." Tianhua muttered as he looked at Mu Rong Feiyan.
Seeing his expression, Mu Rong Feiyan quickly said with a smile, "I was just asking casually. If you don't want to say, you don't have to."
After saying that, she raised her wine cup, toasted Tianhua, and Tianhua, after finishing the wine, looked at the empty cup, lost in thought.
Mu Rong Feiyan quietly watched him. After a long while, Tianhua put down the empty cup. Mu Rong Feiyan refilled his cup.
Tianhua picked up the wine cup, looked at Mu Rong Feiyan, and then smiled, saying, "My hometown is a beautiful place. If you ever go there, you might fall in love with it."
"In the past, the thirteen tribes waged war against each other incessantly for many years. This situation persisted for decades until they grew weary of the conflicts. Finally, the thirteen tribes decided to come together for peace, pledging not to disturb one another. Each tribe sent its representatives to a meeting where they decided to establish three cities and a town. Important figures from each tribe assumed the roles of city lords, town masters, and other positions. After the meeting, the tribes ceased their wars, and with everyone's efforts, the Three Cities and a Town were established," Boss Han explained.
"The Three Cities and a Town were created by everyone. How did it become a tool for Yuxing Tian to unify the thirteen tribes?" Tianhua asked in surprise.
"That's because Yuxing Tian deceived everyone. After the establishment of the Three Cities and a Town, he suddenly launched a war. Some experts and important figures from other tribes were either captured or killed. The survivors either submitted to him willingly or were forced to do so. After that, he smoothly took control of the Three Cities and a Town," Boss Han passionately recounted.
"Perhaps some people survived back then," Tianhua remarked.
"Rumors say they all died, while others claim that some of them are still alive. But I believe they are all dead," Boss Han said.
"Why do you think so, Uncle Han?" Tianhua asked.
"The fifty years of peace in the Three Cities and a Town say it all. When I was young, my parents told us stories about the Three Cities and a Town. Think about it, if they were still alive, why haven't we seen any trace of them in these decades?" Boss Han explained.
"Maybe they are hiding somewhere, waiting for an opportunity," Tianhua suggested.
Boss Han chuckled. "After fifty years, Yuxing Tian's lackeys, who only know how to enjoy themselves without caring about the people, have turned this place into a miserable state. If they were waiting for an opportunity, wouldn't this be the best time?"
"Maybe their power is too weak, like those with Lu Yunshan!" Tianhua said.
"Those people are different from Lu Yunshan. Although Lu Yunshan can now gather a crowd with a call, they are just ordinary people. Despite their large numbers, if they encounter Yuxing Tian, having more people won't help! What matters is individual capability. In the thirteen tribes back then, each tribe had individuals with special abilities. They were all formidable figures, capable of facing thousands alone. The war relied on them, not ordinary citizens who were mere spectators. Unfortunately, those people disappeared, and the world no longer sees those special abilities. What remains are easily ruled ordinary folks!" Boss Han sighed.
"So, you're saying that there is no one in the current Three Cities and a Town who can defeat Yuxing Tian?" Tianhua asked.
Boss Han raised his wine glass, took a deep sip, thought for a moment, and then said, "Who knows."
"Uncle Han, why wouldn't you know? From what you just said, you should be quite familiar with Yuxing Tian!" Tianhua anxiously inquired.
"How would I know him! Everything I just said is based on rumors. As for those so-called special abilities, who knows if they are true? Ask the people of the Three Cities and a Town; who knows about those!" Boss Han chuckled.
"But I feel like those things are real!" Tianhua insisted.
"After talking about those stories for so long, I'm a bit tired now. Tianhua, I'm going to sleep!" Boss Han said.
Tianhua wanted to say something, but he remained silent, just acknowledging with a nod. Boss Han got up and walked towards his room. After taking a few steps, he suddenly turned around and said with a smile, "Tianhua, those are just legends. If you take them seriously, you're just bothering yourself. Haha... get some rest soon too!"
After Boss Han left, Tianhua looked at his retreating figure, feeling excited in his heart. Although Boss Han said that what he mentioned earlier was just hearsay, everything felt so real to him! It seems that Dad and the others living in seclusion there also have hidden secrets!
Tianhua sat there alone, lost in thought. When he snapped out of it, he saw a bit of wine left in the glass. He picked it up, drank it, and then stood up to tidy up the table. After finishing, he walked towards his room. Entering the room, Tianhua lay on the bed, closed his eyes, and soon fell asleep.
When it was just beginning to get light, Tianhua got up, realizing that his head was still slightly throbbing. Sitting on the bed for a while, waiting until he felt better, he got up and went to the courtyard, looking at the clean table. He smiled, went to wash his face, and prepared breakfast, making two bowls of sobering soup.
The morning seemed to follow the usual routine. Tianhua sat at the table, waiting for the others to wake up. After they got up, they had their meal, and then Tianhua opened the front door, waiting for customers.
For someone else, they might have grown tired of such a life, but Tianhua didn't feel any sense of weariness. Initially, he thought about exploring the scenery of the Three Cities and a Town, but since he learned about the connection between this world and the village, he lost interest in wandering around. Now, the thing he most wanted to do was uncover the truth from that time.
When every day repeated the same actions and events, time seemed to pass quickly. In the blink of an eye, the sky darkened, and the pedestrians on the street gradually diminished. The same was true for the inn.
Tianhua and the others sat in the backyard, finishing their dinner. Boss Han looked at Tianhua and said, "Tianhua, would you like another drink tonight?"
"Uncle Han, I think I'll pass. I had a bit too much last night. Let's take a break for a few days before drinking again!" Tianhua smiled and said.
"Yeah! It's been a while since I've had so much to drink," Boss Han reminisced.
"After the sobering soup, I still feel a bit tipsy!" Tianhua laughed.
"Tianhua, did you find Uncle Han's story last night exciting?" Boss Han asked with a smile.
"Exciting, I feel like it's as real as it can be," Tianhua said.
"Really, I think so too! But most of it is probably fabricated! After everything became settled, some things were mythologized," Boss Han chuckled.
"Yeah, probably!" Tianhua nodded.
The two chatted while eating, and after finishing the meal, they chatted for a while longer. Boss Han, leading Little Bell, went to sleep, and the elderly man also returned to his room. Tianhua sat alone, watching the dark sky. After a while, he stood up, tidied up the table, and walked towards the backyard wall. Arriving at the wall, Tianhua leaped over.
Outside the wall, Tianhua looked around and quickly left. He walked quickly through the town and soon arrived at a magnificent mansion gate. Tianhua found a secluded spot and observed the entrance: lanterns hung high outside the gate, brightly illumin
ating the surroundings. Two individuals stood solemnly on either side of the gate.
Tianhua circled around the gate and reached a quiet wall. He looked around and then leaped, jumping inside the wall.
Tianhua stood still, anxiously surveying his surroundings. This place seemed to be a garden, even more pleasant than the scenery at the old man's house. After looking around for a while, confusion suddenly filled his mind: despite the well-lit atmosphere, there wasn't a single person guarding this place!
Carefully navigating, Tianhua walked for a while. His confusion deepened as he noticed that the entire mansion was well-lit, making it look like daytime, yet there was no one visible to stand guard.
With caution, Tianhua continued walking. Suddenly, he saw a room with lights on. He thought for a moment: the places he had passed moments ago had no light in the rooms, but the light in this room indicated the presence of someone. He decided to investigate.
Tianhua walked slowly toward that room. Just as he approached, four figures quickly flashed in front of him. Tianhua was taken aback, hastily looking around, but he saw nothing. Shaking his head, he continued walking. Suddenly, he leaped backward.
As Tianhua steadied himself, four people appeared on the empty space in front of him. All four were masked and dressed in black clothes, with only their eyes visible. Tianhua looked at them, pondered for a moment, and said, "No wonder such a large place has no guards. It turns out there are experts like you!"
"Who dares to intrude into the Lord's mansion at night?" one of them asked.
"A sensible person should surrender quickly, sparing themselves from suffering," another said.
"Sparing myself from suffering? So, if I surrender, you'll let me go? Is that it?" Tianhua asked with a smile.
The four exchanged glances, and one of them said, "Surrendering will allow you to die more quickly. Otherwise, you'll find yourself unable to live or die!"
"What kind of logic is this? You just said surrendering would spare me from suffering, but now you want me to die quickly. Which one of you four should I listen to?" Tianhua questioned with confusion.
"Kid, less nonsense!" one of them scowled and then lunged at Tianhua.
天hua dodged the attack and leaped aside. The assailant, undeterred, prepared for another strike. Tianhua waved his hand and said, "Hold on, everyone. Tonight, I've only come to inquire about something from Mu Xiong. I really don't want to engage with you four. So, could you please step aside and make it convenient for me?"
"Bold! How dare you address the town lord by his name!" one person exclaimed loudly.
"It's just a name! Why get so worked up? Besides, names are meant to be used, not hidden away," Tianhua replied with a smile.
"Youngster, trespassing into the town lord's residence at night is a capital offense! Giving you a swift death is already a mercy!" another person declared.
"Is there really no room for negotiation?" Tianhua inquired.
"Other than death, you have no other choice!" one person declared with each word.
"Why must you force me like this?" Tianhua sighed helplessly.
As soon as Tianhua finished speaking, one person lunged at him. Tianhua evaded the attack with a swift move. Seeing this, the other three also attacked simultaneously. Tianhua skillfully dodged left and right among the three, and their attacks couldn't touch him. However, the remaining person observed a slight opening when Tianhua dodged, swiftly drew a long sword from his waist, and thrust it toward Tianhua.
The thrust was precise and fast, closing in on Tianhua. Yet, the sword found empty air just as it was about to strike. In an instant, Tianhua's body vanished. The four individuals were taken aback.
They halted their attacks, staring at Tianhua standing at a distance. The person who had thrust the sword felt a jolt of surprise; what they considered swift movements were easily surpassed by this youngster.
"How about it, gentlemen? Can I meet with the town lord now?" Tianhua asked.
The four exchanged glances. Suddenly, three of them drew their long swords from their waists simultaneously. With swords in hand, they faced Tianhua. Tianhua looked at them, shook his head helplessly, and gestured with a nod.
The four men gave each other a signal, then simultaneously lunged at Tianhua. This time, their movements were even faster than before. In the light, their figures seemed to vanish instantly!
Tianhua stood there, feeling the direction of the four swords approaching.
A flash of cold light, a sword aimed at the face, another at the back, one at the side, and the last at the lower body. Four swords simultaneously attacked from four directions, coming quickly. When the swords reached him, Tianhua twisted his body, avoiding all four attacks. However, as soon as Tianhua stabilized, the four swords struck again. This time, the attack was different, as if the four were weaving a massive sword net, enclosing Tianhua within. He dodged left and right but remained trapped within their sword circle, unable to escape.
Tianhua began to feel anxious. Although their attacks couldn't harm him, he couldn't break free either. If they continued like this and someone heard the commotion, their numbers might increase, or Mu Xiong might leave. This would make tonight's efforts in vain. It seemed he had to take action!
Tianhua suddenly stood still. The four men hesitated for a moment but didn't stop their attacks. Four swords simultaneously thrust forward. Yet, just before the swords reached Tianhua, they stopped their assault. The four men, pushing their swords, looked at each other in surprise. Suddenly, they felt a powerful force coming at them, and all four were knocked away.
As they were sent flying, one of them collapsed without saying a word. The other three, startled, looked at Tianhua.
"He just fainted! No need to worry," Tianhua said as he watched the three.
Hearing this, the three became even more puzzled. They had all been knocked back simultaneously, yet three of them were fine while one had fainted. How did this happen?
Suddenly, one person cried out. Before he could say anything, he slumped to the ground, seemingly losing consciousness.
The remaining two looked at each other and then at Tianhua. Their long swords were trembling slightly. They stood there, a bit at a loss.
"I didn't want to resort to violence, but tonight I really have some matters to discuss with Mu Xiong. So, sorry about this!" Tianhua said.
Hearing this, the two felt a tightening in their hearts. Nervously scanning their surroundings, they found no signs of disturbance. Suddenly, one of them seemed to sense something, but the feeling was fleeting. Before he could think about it, he lost consciousness and fell to the ground.
The last person stared at Tianhua, finding it hard to believe his eyes. He hadn't moved, yet the three comrades had fainted. How could a person's speed reach such a level?
These questions lingered in his mind, but he wouldn't find answers.
Tianhua looked at the four individuals lying on the ground, shook his head, and walked towards the well-lit room. Approaching the door, Tianhua hesitated for a moment before pushing it open.
Upon opening the door, Tianhua saw Mu Xiong sitting inside, smiling at him.
"Please, have a seat!" Mu Xiong said with a smile.
Tianhua looked at him, found a chair, and sat down. At this moment, only Mu Xiong and Tianhua were in the room, leaving Tianhua puzzled.
"The fight outside just now was quite spectacular!" Mu Xiong remarked.
"You saw it too?" Tianhua asked.
"Not with my own eyes, but anyone who can defeat those four and enter this room has to be extraordinary," Mu Xiong said.
"Enough small talk. I came tonight with a few questions for you," Tianhua said.
"Oh, it seems we still have much to discuss!" Mu Xiong said with a smile.
"You're wrong. We don't have much to discuss. I just have some questions to ask," Tianhua clarified.
"Alright, alright. Go ahead!" Mu Xiong said, smiling.
"I want to ask about the events leading to the establishment of the Three Cities and a Town by the thirteen tribes," Tianhua asked sternly.
"The events leading to the establishment of the Three Cities and a Town? What exactly are you referring to?" Mu Xiong inquired.
"The process of the thirteen tribes establishing the Three Cities and a Town," Tianhua specified.
"Since that's the case, how about we also discuss the matter we talked about before?" Mu Xiong suggested.
"We have nothing to discuss. I only have questions," Tianhua insisted.
"In that case, how should we proceed? I can answer your questions, but who will answer mine?" Mu Xiong said with a smile.
"Your questions are none of my concern," Tianhua replied.
"Haha. It seems you still need to think it over carefully," Mu Xiong said.
"There's no need for me to think about it!" Tianhua asserted.
"To gain something, you must be willing to give up something," Mu Xiong said.
Tianhua looked at him, pondered for a moment, and said, "So, are you unwilling to say anything tonight?"
"Some words become tiresome
when repeated too often," Mu Xiong said, smiling.
"What if I insist that you must say something tonight?" Tianhua stared at Mu Xiong.
"Young man, nothing is as easy as it seems!" Mu Xiong said with a smile.
Tianhua looked at Mu Xiong, who was smiling at him. After a moment, Tianhua stood up without saying a word and walked towards the door. Tianhua opened the door, and just as one foot stepped outside, Mu Xiong spoke from behind, "You can go back and think it over. I'm available anytime."
Tianhua paused for a moment, said nothing, and walked away. Mu Xiong watched his departing figure, his brows furrowing.
With Tianhua out of sight, Mu Xiong loudly called out, "Come!"
A person quickly entered, saying, "Town Lord, what are your orders!"
Mu Xiong waved his hand, and the person approached. Mu Xiong whispered something to him, and the person nodded, saying, "Yes, I'll go right away."
After the person left, Mu Xiong sat alone in the room, contemplating for a long time. Suddenly, he laughed, "Things seem to be developing faster than imagined!"
Mu Xiong spoke, sat there for a while, then stood up, yawned, and turned to walk inside. The room remained brightly lit.
Tianhua emerged from Mu Xiong's room and headed straight for the main gate. As he stepped out, the two guards, surprised, stared at Tianhua. Glancing at each other, one of them said in confusion, "You..."
Tianhua ignored them and continued walking. The two guards remained bewildered behind.
Tianhua walked alone in the darkness, reflecting in his mind. If he had taken action just now, what would have happened? Would Changqing or someone else have appeared? Judging by his demeanor, it seemed like he had no reservations about confronting Tianhua. Could he be a formidable expert?
Lost in his thoughts, Tianhua suddenly chuckled, laughing at himself. He mocked his original innocent intention of exploring and having fun in this place, now transformed into something unexpected. Perhaps everything was predestined!
Unconsciously, he reached the back courtyard of the tavern. Tianhua leaped in, standing silently in the courtyard. Looking towards Han's room, he quietly walked towards his own room. He gently pushed the door open, entered, closed the door softly, and then lay on the bed, closing his eyes. Tonight, he had added a bit more trouble to his mind.
The next morning, when Tianhua opened the door, a familiar carriage was parked outside. Seeing Tianhua, a person from the carriage hurriedly got off and said, "Young Master, my young lady invites you to the tavern for a meeting tonight."
"Okay, understood!" Tianhua replied.
The person, upon hearing this, smiled, bid farewell to Tianhua, mounted the carriage, and drove away with a crack of the whip.
Tianhua watched the carriage depart until it disappeared. Originally, he was reluctant to accept Mu Rong Feiyan's invitation, but in these past few days, for some reason, whenever he felt troubled, his mind involuntarily turned to Mu Rong Feiyan. Perhaps in her presence, his heart could find some peace.
At night, without saying goodbye to Han, Tianhua left the courtyard after everyone had gone to sleep. Leaping over the wall, he arrived quickly at the "Heavenly Fragrance Pavilion." When Tianhua entered, it was just like before. As he pushed open the door, Mu Rong Feiyan, with a smile, greeted him, "Tianhua, you finally came. I've been waiting for a long time. I thought you might have some business and wouldn't come tonight!"
"It did indeed delay me for a bit. I apologize for keeping you waiting," Tianhua said.
Smiling, Mu Rong Feiyan led Tianhua to a seat and attentively poured wine for both of them. This time, their meeting was different from the previous ones. Tianhua was noticeably more enthusiastic, surprising Mu Rong Feiyan.
"Tianhua, we've known each other for so long, and I still don't know where you're from," Mu Rong Feiyan said with a smile while pouring wine for Tianhua.
"Where I'm from..." Tianhua muttered as he looked at Mu Rong Feiyan.
Seeing his expression, Mu Rong Feiyan quickly said with a smile, "I was just asking casually. If you don't want to say, you don't have to."
After saying that, she raised her wine cup, toasted Tianhua, and Tianhua, after finishing the wine, looked at the empty cup, lost in thought.
Mu Rong Feiyan quietly watched him. After a long while, Tianhua put down the empty cup. Mu Rong Feiyan refilled his cup.
Tianhua picked up the wine cup, looked at Mu Rong Feiyan, and then smiled, saying, "My hometown is a beautiful place. If you ever go there, you might fall in love with it."
