Thunder Valley
Feng Zhun scanned Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen with his eyes, a smile on his face, and gently asked, “Welcome to Xiguan Pass. May I inquire about the purpose of your visit? If you are here for sightseeing, I, Feng Zhun, am well acquainted with Xiguan Pass and can serve as your guide during your leisure time.”
Huangfu Yuchen coldly stared at him.
Yan Ge chuckled as he observed this peculiar person, unable to detect any impure thoughts in his eyes. “We are merchants, hoping to explore potential avenues for profit here.”
“You’re welcome to develop business here,” Feng Zhun replied. “I also have a keen interest in commerce—”
Before he could finish his sentence, Cao Zhan approached, snatched the two bags from the soldier, and pulled Feng Zhun aside expressionlessly, nearly causing him to stumble.
“It’s time for him to take his medicine.”
With those words, Cao Zhan dragged Feng Zhun away.
After passing the inspection, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen were finally allowed to enter the city. Upon entering, they were taken aback by the bustling presence of martial artists. The sudden influx of martial artists into the city could spell trouble if it was part of a large-scale operation against the court. It was no wonder General Cao was so nervous and conducting thorough investigations.
Meanwhile, in a mysterious room in a mysterious location in Xiguan Pass, a conversation between two mysterious individuals took place.
“Master, the individuals we’ve been keeping an eye on have arrived.”
“They have finally arrived. Proceed according to the plan.”
“Yes.”
“The day after tomorrow, I will have to return. If anything happens while I’m away, report to the Deputy Sect Master immediately.”
“Yes!”
—–
Yan Jin slept soundly on the horse. His face was peaceful, but his complexion was paler than usual.
Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen were focused on finding an inn and didn’t notice.
Once they secured a room in the inn, Huangfu Yuchen laid Yan Jin on the bed to rest while he went out to gather information.
In the past few days, the large influx of martial artists had alerted the vigilant General Cao at the city gates. The investigation of martial artists from Great Han was conducted with great severity, as many of them disguised themselves as merchant caravans. Moreover, the incident In the Thunder Valley was similar to what they had heard before. It was evident that martial artists had well-connected sources of information.
After discussing their options, the two of them decided to enter the Mai Kingdom in secret. The longer they delayed, the more unfavorable it would be for them.
“I’ll go call Little Jin,” Yan Ge walked to the bedside and called out twice, but Yan Jin showed no response. Realizing something was wrong, he grabbed Yan Jin’s wrist to check his pulse.
“What’s wrong?” Huangfu Yuchen glanced at Yan Ge and also noticed something unusual. He hurried over a few steps and asked, “What’s happening to him?”
Yan Ge turned his head, a solemn expression on his face, “I’m certain there’s nothing wrong with his body, but he won’t wake up.”
Huangfu Yuchen was startled, gripping his shoulders tightly as he anxiously examined him from top to bottom. “And you? Are you feeling unwell?” He hadn’t forgotten that Yan Ge had emphasized the importance of being cautious and was worried that Yan Jin’s abnormal condition would endanger him.
Yan Ge shook his head, suddenly thinking of the system. He attempted to open it but was unsuccessful. The light screen that had appeared before did not reappear, and his expression changed. “I can’t even open my backpack.”
Huangfu Yuchen’s heart sank. He held Yan Ge’s hand tightly, fearing that he would disappear before his eyes.
“Little Jin! Little Jin!” Yan Ge shook Yan Jin harder, but there was still no response.
This unprecedented situation caused both of them to exchange serious glances. Huangfu Yuchen’s mood grew even heavier, and he wondered if Yan Ge’s life was in danger.
“Could it be a breakthrough in his cultivation?” Huangfu Yuchen wrapped his arms around Yan Ge’s waist.
Yan Ge furrowed his brows. “It shouldn’t be. There was no such situation in his previous breakthroughs… Zirui, what should we do?” For the first time, he showed a helpless expression in front of Huangfu Yuchen. He worried about Yan Jin and himself. In this world, he had finally obtained so much happiness and didn’t want to lose it.
Huangfu Yuchen embraced him tightly. “Nothing will happen, baby. I will never allow anyone or anything to take you away from me. Let’s not panic for now. Since Yan Jin’s body seems normal, it means he’s temporarily not in danger. Didn’t you say that the Zhantian Vine has extraordinary effects? I’m thinking that it might be effective for Yan Jin as well. Let’s go find the Zhantian Vine.”
“Yes, the Zhantian Vine!” Yan Ge finally relaxed a bit, regaining his composure. “The Zhantian Vine must be useful!” Since the backpack couldn’t be opened, he could only rely on the Zhantian Vine.
The two quickly packed their things. Yan Ge wrapped Yan Jin in a cloth and carried him on his back. They left the inn and arrived in a sparsely populated corner, swiftly passing by the patrolling soldiers without attracting attention, and like a gust of wind, disappeared into the distance. Before long, they arrived at the checkpoint guarded by the soldiers. They followed the established plan and avoided people’s gazes, heading towards the Thunder Valley.
At the Thunder Valley, they saw dense lightning pouring down like rain, resembling a long snake in the distance, causing their expressions to change once again. With such dense lightning, even with their current cultivation, entering the valley would undoubtedly lead to certain death.
Moreover, they were not the only ones at the valley’s edge.
The martial artists from various kingdoms guarding the valley were startled by the sudden appearance of the two white-clad figures, and their eyes were filled with shock.
Who were these two? Their lightness skills had reached an unimaginable level!
Huangfu Yuchen gently squeezed Yan Ge’s hand, transmitting his voice. “Baby, let’s get some information first.”
Yan Ge nodded slightly and turned to look at the others, wearing the same pleasant smile as always.
Apart from the three of them, there were over thirty people at the valley’s edge. A middle-aged man in his forties stood alone, with a sturdy build and brown hair. There was a refined middle-aged man and a middle-aged beauty who were intimately interacting with each other. There was also a young man in his twenties lazily sitting under a large tree, dozing off with a stalk of grass in his mouth. Three elderly men in their sixties wearing similar costumes; one man leading fifteen or sixteen disciples; Two young men sitting with fierce faces, and loose braids that made one wonder how much time it took to comb their hair every day.
Except for the young man sleeping under the tree and the couple, no one looked like the people of Great Han Kingdom.
These people were all very leisurely and seemed to be waiting for something.
Yan Ge turned his head and surveyed the Thunder Valley. The valley was deep, reaching a depth of kilometers from the cliff edge to the bottom. However, the slope was not very steep, so it wouldn’t be difficult to descend. Due to the frequent lightning strikes, there wasn’t much vegetation at the bottom of the valley. Only the most robust species with extraordinary vitality could survive after being struck by lightning. A few lucky trees had never been struck, so they remained lush and verdant.
“Esteemed senior,” Yan Ge respectfully bowed to the nearest middle-aged man with a robust build, “I seek your guidance. May I ask why there is so much lightning in the Thunder Valley today? Do you know when the lightning will cease?”
The middle-aged man had a kind face but appeared indifferent. His gaze remained fixed on the Thunder Valley, showing no response as if he hadn’t heard Yan Ge’s words at all.
Huangfu Yuchen was not surprised, they were all competitors since they had come here. He led Yan Ge to the couple in front of them and spoke politely, “If I’m not mistaken, both of you are from the Great Han Kingdom. Could you kindly enlighten us about the Thunder Valley?”
The man remained silent, while the beautiful woman smiled and glanced at Yan Ge curiously, asking, “Are you all family?”
“Indeed, I am Luo Fang, and this is my wife, Zhang Yang,” Huangfu Yuchen said, being very courteous.
The beautiful woman chuckled, her smile even more enchanting. “It’s quite rare for you to bring your son along for an adventure in the Thunder Valley.”
Because they needed information, Yan Ge was patient. “As newcomers to the world of martial arts, we humbly seek your guidance.”
“Very well,” the beautiful woman smiled alluringly. “I am willing to offer my guidance. One of you may spar with me. If you win, I will reveal everything I know about the Thunder Valley without holding back.”
Huangfu Yuchen understood that Yan Ge was actually very anxious and patted his shoulder. “I am Luo Fang, and I am willing—”
“Don’t believe her words.” The young man who had been sleeping sat up lazily, speaking casually. “It seems like you two are truly new to the martial world. Pei Jinde and Huang Shuya, known as the ‘Deceptive Duo,’ are notorious for their trickery. Few people have been able to escape their deception. You two should not believe her words.”
Huangfu Yuchen’s expression turned slightly cold.
“Well then, would this young hero be willing to tell us?” Yan Ge asked.
“I am willing,” the young man stood up, spat out the piece of grass from his mouth, “but I also want to spar with you. I noticed earlier that your lightness skill is quite formidable, so I assume your martial arts are also impressive. If you can defeat me, I promise to disclose everything truthfully.”
“Very well,” Huangfu Yuchen smiled faintly, a hint of sinister coldness in his smile. “Please.”
The others gathered closer, their expressions filled with anticipation. Since they were bored waiting, witnessing a good show was exactly what they desired.
The middle-aged beauty sneered and said to Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen, “Do you know who this young man is? His name is Zhong Xie, known as ‘Xiao Tianxie’ in the martial world. He is infamous for his wickedness, both in character and martial arts!”
Yan Ge smiled without saying a word, and Huangfu Yuchen remained unfazed. They were not afraid. If this young man dared to play tricks on them, they would beat him until he confessed.
“Zirui, be careful.”
Huangfu Yuchen gave him a reassuring glance.
Zhong Xie unsheathed his sword and glanced at Huangfu Yuchen, inquiring, “What about your weapon?”
“No need,” Huangfu Yuchen replied calmly.
Zhong Xie furrowed his brow, “I am serious.”
Huangfu Yuchen simply nodded, saying, “Please.”
With his sword raised, Zhong Xie thrust towards Huangfu Yuchen’s chest. This move appeared casual, as if it were a straight and direct thrust, but halfway through, the sword technique transformed, and the sword qi surged and fluctuated. Suddenly, it changed direction, aiming to strike Huangfu Yuchen’s neck with incredible speed.
Thunder Valley
Feng Zhun scanned Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen with his eyes, a smile on his face, and gently asked, “Welcome to Xiguan Pass. May I inquire about the purpose of your visit? If you are here for sightseeing, I, Feng Zhun, am well acquainted with Xiguan Pass and can serve as your guide during your leisure time.”
Huangfu Yuchen coldly stared at him.
Yan Ge chuckled as he observed this peculiar person, unable to detect any impure thoughts in his eyes. “We are merchants, hoping to explore potential avenues for profit here.”
“You’re welcome to develop business here,” Feng Zhun replied. “I also have a keen interest in commerce—”
Before he could finish his sentence, Cao Zhan approached, snatched the two bags from the soldier, and pulled Feng Zhun aside expressionlessly, nearly causing him to stumble.
“It’s time for him to take his medicine.”
With those words, Cao Zhan dragged Feng Zhun away.
After passing the inspection, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen were finally allowed to enter the city. Upon entering, they were taken aback by the bustling presence of martial artists. The sudden influx of martial artists into the city could spell trouble if it was part of a large-scale operation against the court. It was no wonder General Cao was so nervous and conducting thorough investigations.
Meanwhile, in a mysterious room in a mysterious location in Xiguan Pass, a conversation between two mysterious individuals took place.
“Master, the individuals we’ve been keeping an eye on have arrived.”
“They have finally arrived. Proceed according to the plan.”
“Yes.”
“The day after tomorrow, I will have to return. If anything happens while I’m away, report to the Deputy Sect Master immediately.”
“Yes!”
—–
Yan Jin slept soundly on the horse. His face was peaceful, but his complexion was paler than usual.
Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen were focused on finding an inn and didn’t notice.
Once they secured a room in the inn, Huangfu Yuchen laid Yan Jin on the bed to rest while he went out to gather information.
In the past few days, the large influx of martial artists had alerted the vigilant General Cao at the city gates. The investigation of martial artists from Great Han was conducted with great severity, as many of them disguised themselves as merchant caravans. Moreover, the incident In the Thunder Valley was similar to what they had heard before. It was evident that martial artists had well-connected sources of information.
After discussing their options, the two of them decided to enter the Mai Kingdom in secret. The longer they delayed, the more unfavorable it would be for them.
“I’ll go call Little Jin,” Yan Ge walked to the bedside and called out twice, but Yan Jin showed no response. Realizing something was wrong, he grabbed Yan Jin’s wrist to check his pulse.
“What’s wrong?” Huangfu Yuchen glanced at Yan Ge and also noticed something unusual. He hurried over a few steps and asked, “What’s happening to him?”
Yan Ge turned his head, a solemn expression on his face, “I’m certain there’s nothing wrong with his body, but he won’t wake up.”
Huangfu Yuchen was startled, gripping his shoulders tightly as he anxiously examined him from top to bottom. “And you? Are you feeling unwell?” He hadn’t forgotten that Yan Ge had emphasized the importance of being cautious and was worried that Yan Jin’s abnormal condition would endanger him.
Yan Ge shook his head, suddenly thinking of the system. He attempted to open it but was unsuccessful. The light screen that had appeared before did not reappear, and his expression changed. “I can’t even open my backpack.”
Huangfu Yuchen’s heart sank. He held Yan Ge’s hand tightly, fearing that he would disappear before his eyes.
“Little Jin! Little Jin!” Yan Ge shook Yan Jin harder, but there was still no response.
This unprecedented situation caused both of them to exchange serious glances. Huangfu Yuchen’s mood grew even heavier, and he wondered if Yan Ge’s life was in danger.
“Could it be a breakthrough in his cultivation?” Huangfu Yuchen wrapped his arms around Yan Ge’s waist.
Yan Ge furrowed his brows. “It shouldn’t be. There was no such situation in his previous breakthroughs… Zirui, what should we do?” For the first time, he showed a helpless expression in front of Huangfu Yuchen. He worried about Yan Jin and himself. In this world, he had finally obtained so much happiness and didn’t want to lose it.
Huangfu Yuchen embraced him tightly. “Nothing will happen, baby. I will never allow anyone or anything to take you away from me. Let’s not panic for now. Since Yan Jin’s body seems normal, it means he’s temporarily not in danger. Didn’t you say that the Zhantian Vine has extraordinary effects? I’m thinking that it might be effective for Yan Jin as well. Let’s go find the Zhantian Vine.”
“Yes, the Zhantian Vine!” Yan Ge finally relaxed a bit, regaining his composure. “The Zhantian Vine must be useful!” Since the backpack couldn’t be opened, he could only rely on the Zhantian Vine.
The two quickly packed their things. Yan Ge wrapped Yan Jin in a cloth and carried him on his back. They left the inn and arrived in a sparsely populated corner, swiftly passing by the patrolling soldiers without attracting attention, and like a gust of wind, disappeared into the distance. Before long, they arrived at the checkpoint guarded by the soldiers. They followed the established plan and avoided people’s gazes, heading towards the Thunder Valley.
At the Thunder Valley, they saw dense lightning pouring down like rain, resembling a long snake in the distance, causing their expressions to change once again. With such dense lightning, even with their current cultivation, entering the valley would undoubtedly lead to certain death.
Moreover, they were not the only ones at the valley’s edge.
The martial artists from various kingdoms guarding the valley were startled by the sudden appearance of the two white-clad figures, and their eyes were filled with shock.
Who were these two? Their lightness skills had reached an unimaginable level!
Huangfu Yuchen gently squeezed Yan Ge’s hand, transmitting his voice. “Baby, let’s get some information first.”
Yan Ge nodded slightly and turned to look at the others, wearing the same pleasant smile as always.
Apart from the three of them, there were over thirty people at the valley’s edge. A middle-aged man in his forties stood alone, with a sturdy build and brown hair. There was a refined middle-aged man and a middle-aged beauty who were intimately interacting with each other. There was also a young man in his twenties lazily sitting under a large tree, dozing off with a stalk of grass in his mouth. Three elderly men in their sixties wearing similar costumes; one man leading fifteen or sixteen disciples; Two young men sitting with fierce faces, and loose braids that made one wonder how much time it took to comb their hair every day.
Except for the young man sleeping under the tree and the couple, no one looked like the people of Great Han Kingdom.
These people were all very leisurely and seemed to be waiting for something.
Yan Ge turned his head and surveyed the Thunder Valley. The valley was deep, reaching a depth of kilometers from the cliff edge to the bottom. However, the slope was not very steep, so it wouldn’t be difficult to descend. Due to the frequent lightning strikes, there wasn’t much vegetation at the bottom of the valley. Only the most robust species with extraordinary vitality could survive after being struck by lightning. A few lucky trees had never been struck, so they remained lush and verdant.
“Esteemed senior,” Yan Ge respectfully bowed to the nearest middle-aged man with a robust build, “I seek your guidance. May I ask why there is so much lightning in the Thunder Valley today? Do you know when the lightning will cease?”
The middle-aged man had a kind face but appeared indifferent. His gaze remained fixed on the Thunder Valley, showing no response as if he hadn’t heard Yan Ge’s words at all.
Huangfu Yuchen was not surprised, they were all competitors since they had come here. He led Yan Ge to the couple in front of them and spoke politely, “If I’m not mistaken, both of you are from the Great Han Kingdom. Could you kindly enlighten us about the Thunder Valley?”
The man remained silent, while the beautiful woman smiled and glanced at Yan Ge curiously, asking, “Are you all family?”
“Indeed, I am Luo Fang, and this is my wife, Zhang Yang,” Huangfu Yuchen said, being very courteous.
The beautiful woman chuckled, her smile even more enchanting. “It’s quite rare for you to bring your son along for an adventure in the Thunder Valley.”
Because they needed information, Yan Ge was patient. “As newcomers to the world of martial arts, we humbly seek your guidance.”
“Very well,” the beautiful woman smiled alluringly. “I am willing to offer my guidance. One of you may spar with me. If you win, I will reveal everything I know about the Thunder Valley without holding back.”
Huangfu Yuchen understood that Yan Ge was actually very anxious and patted his shoulder. “I am Luo Fang, and I am willing—”
“Don’t believe her words.” The young man who had been sleeping sat up lazily, speaking casually. “It seems like you two are truly new to the martial world. Pei Jinde and Huang Shuya, known as the ‘Deceptive Duo,’ are notorious for their trickery. Few people have been able to escape their deception. You two should not believe her words.”
Huangfu Yuchen’s expression turned slightly cold.
“Well then, would this young hero be willing to tell us?” Yan Ge asked.
“I am willing,” the young man stood up, spat out the piece of grass from his mouth, “but I also want to spar with you. I noticed earlier that your lightness skill is quite formidable, so I assume your martial arts are also impressive. If you can defeat me, I promise to disclose everything truthfully.”
“Very well,” Huangfu Yuchen smiled faintly, a hint of sinister coldness in his smile. “Please.”
The others gathered closer, their expressions filled with anticipation. Since they were bored waiting, witnessing a good show was exactly what they desired.
The middle-aged beauty sneered and said to Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen, “Do you know who this young man is? His name is Zhong Xie, known as ‘Xiao Tianxie’ in the martial world. He is infamous for his wickedness, both in character and martial arts!”
Yan Ge smiled without saying a word, and Huangfu Yuchen remained unfazed. They were not afraid. If this young man dared to play tricks on them, they would beat him until he confessed.
“Zirui, be careful.”
Huangfu Yuchen gave him a reassuring glance.
Zhong Xie unsheathed his sword and glanced at Huangfu Yuchen, inquiring, “What about your weapon?”
“No need,” Huangfu Yuchen replied calmly.
Zhong Xie furrowed his brow, “I am serious.”
Huangfu Yuchen simply nodded, saying, “Please.”
With his sword raised, Zhong Xie thrust towards Huangfu Yuchen’s chest. This move appeared casual, as if it were a straight and direct thrust, but halfway through, the sword technique transformed, and the sword qi surged and fluctuated. Suddenly, it changed direction, aiming to strike Huangfu Yuchen’s neck with incredible speed.
