Chapter 15: Night Feast

In the Great Liang World.Fang Manor.

On exquisite blue and white porcelain plates lay meticulously prepared Beefwood meat by the skilled chef.

The peculiar aroma intensified, causing Lily, who was serving nearby, to involuntarily swallow with anticipation.

Lily was somewhat of an anomaly among the Twelve Flower Maidens. She lacked Yuegui’s gentle attentiveness and did not possess the allure found in the other girls. Compared to them, she stood taller, with more angular facial features that did not align with the typical aesthetic preferences of Great Liang’s nobility.

When purchasing the maidservants, she had been included merely as an extra gift.

However, Fang Xi found her quite appealing, possessing a spirited and vibrant beauty. If dressed in slightly masculine attire, she would resemble an elegantly handsome man.

Currently, Fang Xi had deliberately asked Lily to change into a set of white, form-fitting clothing, making her appear at first glance like a spirit incarnate from a white fox.

Fang Xi often enjoyed teasing Lily, as her naturally strong-willed character made the process of winning her over quite intriguing.

But today, he had absolutely no interest in such games.

With a fierce bite into the Beefwood meat, the succulent juices exploded within his mouth.

Instantly!

His skin flushed red, resembling someone deeply intoxicated.

At the same time, muscles on his thigh began to ripple, and the serpent-like black pattern rapidly expanded and grew…

In the next instant, Fang Xi moved like the wind, swiftly weaving through numerous melee training posts.

Lily felt as if she were witnessing a giant python darting back and forth, causing her to tremble with fear.

With each explosive sound, Fang Xi’s kicks shattered the wooden posts, sending splinters flying everywhere.

After a prolonged period, Fang Xi finally stopped, gazing down at his legs.

The pants below his thighs were torn and tattered, revealing smooth skin adorned with a serpent pattern.

“A complete double snake design signifies that my Red Snake Leg has also reached the three transformations of blood and qi realm.”

Fang Xi was not surprised by this advancement. After all, he had already broken through with the White Cloud Palm, and mastering the Red Snake Leg was merely an extension of his proficiency.

“Gongzi.” Lily handed him a towel, her movements stiff yet precise.

Fang Xi appreciated her spirited demeanor and smiled, “This is the Red Snake Leg technique, impressive, isn’t it? Want to learn? I could teach you…”

Considering her long legs, combined with the Boneless Serpent Style…

He couldn’t help but shudder slightly at the thought.

Having teased his maid as usual, Fang Xi headed to the Baiyun Dojo.

Since achieving the third transformation of blood and qi, the dojo disciples treated him with increased reverence.

As for Wu Ji?

His appearances at the dojo became increasingly rare.

Moreover, there were no signs of any retaliatory actions from him; instead, he seemed to have adopted a lower profile.

This impressed Fang Xi somewhat, realizing that both fools and geniuses are rare; it’s the ordinary populace who make up the vast majority.

In the main hall,

“Master!” Fang Xi bowed slightly, hands clasped together.

Mu Canglong sat on his armchair, sipping from his cherished purple clay teapot with contented eyes half-closed. “Fang Xi, you’re here… Oh right, your breakthrough to three transformations of blood and qi is a significant event for the dojo. Following tradition, we should celebrate. What do you suggest?”

“I think there’s no need for celebration,” Fang Xi waved dismissively.

It was just the third transformation of blood and qi, not mastering true force or reaching the dojo master realm. What’s there to celebrate? Besides, celebrations either seek fame or profit! He cared little for superficial renown, and as for profit? That would be even more laughable - any gifts from such a celebration wouldn’t compare to the leaves he casually gathers!

“This… alright then.”

Initially, Mu Canglong seemed slightly displeased. After all, traditionally, once someone becomes a disciple, they must heed their master like a father. However, Fang Xi wasn’t like other apprentices-he already possessed considerable wealth!

Thanks to him, Baiyun Dojo had recently become much better off financially, making it difficult for Mu Canglong to rebuke him…

“If there’s nothing else, I’ll take my leave now.”

Fang Xi bowed once more before leaving the main hall.

His primary purpose for visiting today was to find an opportunity to imprint the Divine Intent Diagram for the White Cloud Palm.

Once he obtained the diagram, Baiyun Dojo would hold little value for him anymore.

‘This is the trouble with third-rate martial arts; just a slight breakthrough brings you close to their limit. What should I do next?’

Fang Xi’s eyes flickered as he contemplated his future path. “Yuanhe Mountain…”

“Shidi, actually, Father has been under immense pressure for too long,” Mu Piaomiao said, defending Mu Canglong while discussing the Divine Intent Diagram. “Managing Baiyun Dojo is quite arduous, and most disciples haven’t lived up to expectations. It’s rare to have someone like you emerge…”

As she spoke, there was a hint of regret in her voice.

Fang Xi’s talent with the White Cloud Palm truly made him unparalleled since the founding of Baiyun Dojo. However…

He was simply too wealthy.

Sometimes, being excessively rich could be disadvantageous.

For instance, if Fang Xi had been born as a beggar or even just an ordinary civilian, Mu Canglong might have taken him as his adopted son, nurturing him meticulously to become the future face of the dojo!

What does it mean to be the face of the dojo? Naturally, it involves representing them in martial tournaments and duels against other dojos!

Once the master grows old, it also becomes the responsibility of the successor-disciple to defend the dojo from challengers. Sᴇaʀch* Thᴇ NʘvᴇlFire.nᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of nøvels early and in the highest quality.

If Fang Xi were willing to fulfill this role, Mu Canglong might even consider marrying Mu Piaomiao to him.

Unfortunately… Fang Xi was far too wealthy!

Why would he risk life and limb solely for a small dojo?

“I understand Master’s thoughtful intentions…” After a moment of contemplation, Fang Xi reluctantly responded, “How about this? I can commit to representing the dojo once in the future!”

“Really?” Mu Piaomiao’s eyes brightened slightly.

“But I have a condition…” Seeing her reaction, Fang Xi promptly stated his requirement.

“What condition?” As Mu Piaomiao met his direct gaze, she couldn’t help but blush faintly, thinking, ‘If it’s for Shidi, perhaps it wouldn’t be entirely unacceptable…’

The words “I agree” were almost on the tip of her tongue.

However, Fang Xi continued, “I would like exclusive access to the White Cloud Divine Intent Diagram…for one night!”

“Ah?” Mu Piaomiao’s eyes widened, appearing somewhat taken aback.

Fang Xi, seemingly embarrassed, explained, “Today, while trying to comprehend the Divine Intent Diagram, I felt unable to grasp its essence. It might be because having someone nearby, especially my shidi, distracts me. Hence, I make this unusual request.”

“Just borrow the Divine Intent Diagram… for one night?”

Mu Piaomiao couldn’t quite pinpoint her feelings, but suddenly she felt inexplicably annoyed! Such a golden opportunity, nearly slipping through her fingers…

“Of course, if Shijie is not reassured, you can guard outside the door and inspect my progress afterward.” Fang Xi spoke with the demeanor of a righteous gentleman.

In the next moment, Mu Piaomiao thrust the White Cloud scroll into Fang Xi’s arms. “Fine, I agree.”

She swiftly turned and ran away, as if fleeing from some monstrous pursuit.

“Heh…” Fang Xi rubbed his nose.

He understood perfectly well the thoughts of young women like Mu Piaomiao. By creating an awkward atmosphere, he had made it uncomfortable for her to face him again easily.

Seizing this opportune moment, a blank jade slip materialized in his hand, and he began copying…

Shortly thereafter, the White Cloud Divine Intent Diagram was securely in his possession!

To Fang Xi, this was the only valuable asset worth considering within the entire Baiyun Dojo.

Nightfall.

At the Yuanhe Mountain’s Blackstone City branch,

several cultivators were feasting and occasionally discussing local anecdotes and curiosities.

The composed woman in white, Chunyu, gazed at the young shishu ‘Linghu Yang’ seated at the head of the table, hesitating as if wanting to speak but unable to find the words.

This shishu possessed extraordinary talent; recognized by one of Yuanhe Mountain’s elders from a young age, he was taken under his wing as a direct disciple. His martial prowess skyrocketed uncontrollably, allowing him to break through to realms beyond even dojo masters at an exceptionally early age!

Due to his unwavering focus on martial arts, he had limited interactions with others, developing a solitary and eccentric nature.

That elder assigned him to the world below, making him the guardian of Blackstone City partly with the intent to temper his character through worldly experiences.

Unfortunately… after several years, he remained unchanged, still lacking any understanding of social etiquette or diplomacy.

“Chunyu, why do you seem hesitant?” Linghu Yang, with keen senses, grew slightly impatient after just one cup of wine and casually asked her.

With pursed red lips, Chunyu finally spoke, “Shishu… do you remember Fang Xi?”

Linghu Yang appeared taken aback. “Who is this person?”

Feeling utterly helpless, Chunyu realized there was little she could do; even now, Linghu Yang struggled to remember names of some disciples within their branch.

She explained patiently, “A few months ago, he sought to join Yuanhe Mountain but was rejected. He then went to Baiyun Dojo. Recently, rumors circulated that he has mastered the White Cloud Palm and achieved the three transformations of blood and qi…”

“Is that so? Seems like his luck outweighs his average talent,” Linghu Yang mused, twirling his wine cup. “Perhaps his physique is particularly suited for the White Cloud Palm lineage… Still, it’s just a third-rate martial art. How can it compare to our Yuanhe Mountain secret teachings? This individual will likely remain at best as a dojo master throughout his life…” He paused briefly before asking, “Why bring him up again?”

With a wry smile, Chunyu responded, “This niece merely feels a bit regretful. If he managed to break through to the three transformations of blood and qi, he must possess some innate talent after all. Perhaps I misjudged him initially.”

“Misjudging him is no matter… There’s no shortage of talents in this world,” Linghu Yang continued dismissively, his eyes gleaming with wisdom. “The path of martial arts is vast and profound; innate talent merely serves as the threshold. More crucial are the resources one has access to after entering that realm, guidance from experienced mentors, and personal diligence!”

Among these factors, choosing the right cultivation technique was paramount!

Regardless of how things turned out that day, Linghu Yang harbored no regrets. Once someone began practicing a third-rate martial art, their potential ceiling became irrevocably set.

“Shishu speaks profound truths indeed.” A portly cultivator, hearing this, enthusiastically banged the table in agreement. “To such wisdom, let us raise a toast!”

Chunyu glanced at him, recognizing him as Qiao Wuchang, a sect deacon known for his sycophancy. Despite his obsequious nature, his martial skills were genuinely impressive, albeit ruthlessly underhanded when deployed covertly.

At that moment, she chose not to comment further.

Chunyu had always been reserved by nature, and tonight’s sentiments were merely fleeting…