[01] Eldest Brother and I Are Going To Chang'an! Is This A Date?

An Xi peered at the young disciple in confusion at first before narrowing his eyes. The hand that had patted the protagonist's head now pulled one of his cheeks.

"You dare slack off in your mind training and ramble like an idiot?" An Xi criticized.

Qiu Xiufeng pointedly looked at him, groaning in pain after his eldest brother pinched him. Blinking, he then realized that the word "transmigrator" doesn't exist in this Xianxia novel.

Of course, how will it exist when the residents in this book are only aware of God Realm and the Supreme Realm as its highest reality plane after achieving full enlightenment and immortality? The science and logic in this d*mn*d book is f***ked up!

Anyways… Now that I've seized the body from the protagonist, it's high time that I introduce myself.

"What are you standing still for? Do you want to stay in this decrepit place?" An Xi already moved towards the exit, glancing back at the blonde. Qiu Xiufeng snapped away from his short trance and rushed to his side with a brilliant smile.

"Coming!"

My name is Tang Wei. I died in a tragic car accident, and my soul somehow ended up inside a novel. Instead of complaining and figuring out how to get home, I've decided to stay and live the rest of my sunny days with my favorite character, Eldest Brother An Xi. Now you're asking how come I love the villain more than the protagonist, right? You will see it soon enough!

With both of them getting out, the wintry landscape greeted them once more, and realized it was snowing. Looking up to the blanketed gray skies and the crisp snowflakes softly raining down on their figures, Qiu Xiufeng recalled something of use in his interspacial bag. With a casual wave of his hand, a small, simple vortex tore through space before him and revealed the contents of his personal inventory. Similar to a magical index from any fantasy RPG games, each cultivator that has reached Foundation Building and above (despite their ranks) will automatically get one. Fourth Disciple promptly retrieved the familiar mint green thick coat and glanced at his brother.

Without a word, he approached the other and carefully draped it around his Senior's shoulders.

"Eldest Brother An Xi has fought valiantly earlier and sustained a lot of wounds," Qiu Xiufeng smiled earnestly as always, "We need to seek shelter as soon as possible and treat your injuries."

Seeing that there was no reaction from the calm looking older disciple, Qiu Xiufeng reckoned that this was an everyday interaction between them.

Oh, thank God. I didn't want to creep him out or anything. I guess the relationship between the villain and the protagonist is better than expected. And here I thought this Qiu Xiufeng would have felt pessimistic about his Eldest Brother because of their bad blood since they met, yet surprisingly… Eldest Brother even protected and stalled time for the protagonist to escape! This didn't happen in the original novel at all!

Then, again, I was supposed to run away either way, and I didn't… Speaking of that event, how did Eldest Brother and I defeat that highly cultivated authority?

Unaware that the same Eldest Brother has been gawking at the deep-in-thought protagonist, he replied, as if he heard his thoughts: "You did that."

"Oh-"

Hold up, what now? I'm sorry, Eldest Brother, but even if I'm the protagonist and possess the golden halo, that just doesn't make sense? Is this what they call "plot armor"? Ah?

"I'm not sure what happened either. The next thing I know, I was thrown in a blank space and heard an unfamiliar voice. In another blink of an eye, I returned to my senses. I saw you had raised your sword in the air. There were traces of your qi everywhere, so I looked at you and saw your complicated expression as if you'd been possessed-"

Brother An Xi, your deduction and observation skills are really on point and downright terrifying, but that's why this humble one is your die-hard fan!

Qiu Xiufeng nodded as he inwardly praised An Xi at the back of his mind. He had cut him off before he could say anything else though in fear that Senior Disciple might realize he's not the real protagonist. If his favorite character comes to know that he doesn't belong in this world… the current Qiu Xiufeng doesn't even want to contemplate.

Just play along, play along… "I see. But, this learning disciple does not recall any moments like that. If that was really me then, maybe I'm secretly harboring ancient power within my blood?" He teased, hoping to lighten the atmosphere. However, in reality, he may have spoiled another characteristic of the protagonist that makes him the "chosen one." Qiu Xiufeng indeed has something in his blood that makes him a unique and virtuous martial arts practitioner. But it wouldn't be revealed until he defeated a Demon King grade enemy many chapters later.

Thankfully, An Xi took his offhanded teasing lightly and blatantly ignored it. Perhaps to Qui Xiufeng, he's used to this idiot blonde rambling nonsense. With the two of them walking in silence, they came upon an array outside the gates. The two looked at one another before An Xi simply deduced that it was a simple teleportation array. Qiu Xiufeng bit back his comment about the "convenience" and followed Eldest Brother into the formation.

----------------------

While traversing back to their sect, Qiu Xiufeng took in the sights and places they came across with. As someone who came from the 21st century, seeing old-fashioned and ancient aesthetics, old structures, and landscapes inspired by real-life vista in China! Even though some looked out of place (maybe taken from other cultures, who knows), at least the scenery bears a resemblance to a Chinese fantasy RPG.

On the other hand, despite Qiu Xiufeng's constant urges for them to take a break so that he can treat their injuries, An Xi retorted that they don't have time to waste. God knows if the Four Heavenly Directions already made their move against their sect. For that reason, Qiu Xiufeng didn't try again. For the meanwhile, he tried to recall the next event.

Since I prevented Eldest Brother's death, I'm not quite sure if I'm still following the original plotline. The only way to figure this out is to sit back and wait. It's a good thing I've already finished the story before I died! If nothing changes, then I'll use what I know to protect Eldest Brother and live in ease! Good plan, good plan.

Unconsciously glancing at An Xi's back, the blonde smiled happily to himself.

After a couple of days flying on their swords, the pair landed before the border of their sect grounds. Facing the moss-covered, stone-shaped gates leading to the concrete staircase, a gentle ripple in the air was similar to a droplet of water disturbing the calm surface of a lake within the entrance. An Xi held up his hand and opened the barrier.

With this action, the stationed disciple guards, which were just low-level Qi-Refining Stage outer disciples of the Fleeting Nine Clouds Sect, immediately appeared before them. Seeing who it is, the men saluted and greeted their returning Senior Disciple and Fourth Disciple. Giving way for them to ascend, they would proceed to alert the others about their coming. Soon enough, a multitude of white dressed people came to greet them at the peak. Their welcome didn't last long as An Xi waved them away and quickly went to the grand hall where official matters were discussed ahead. Before he left, he also told Qiu Xiufeng to rest up and skip the rest of the class of the day.

Watching a couple of inner disciples trail after his Eldest Brother, Qiu Xiufeng doesn't have the slightest intention of standing by and relaxing. Wanting to see the other sights within the sect and adding more information to his arsenal for future references by either socializing with other disciples or eavesdropping, he needs to know what the current situation is upon their return. As far as he (Tang Wei) knows, the original novel mentioned that they were almost raided by the Four Heavenly Directions and was besieged for several years until an inner disciple betrayed the sect and opened the barrier, exposing the vulnerable mountain for their attacks. At that point, the protagonist was at the end of his line and snapped, revealing the terrifying dormant power that slept within.

The sun was about to sit down behind the white mountain capes, the skies beginning to darken as the twilight fell. Winter evening chill blew across the peaceful courtyard where the outer disciples rest and live. While they train under the Sect Master's teachings and practice their cultivation in tranquility, everyone has their own rooms, at least within the massive housings that were perfectly situated along the mountain cliffs. Everyone knows that Fleeting Nine Clouds Sect doesn't lack money and resources, making them one of the top cultivation righteous sects in Jianghu. It's also one reason why many commoners with potential dreams make it to the top by applying in Fleeting Nine Clouds Sect. They wouldn't have to worry about where to live, feeding themselves, and gathering materials for their studies. Everyone also knows that most cultivators that graduated to the early Core Formation Stage came from this astounding sect.

If this were set in the modern time, the sect would be like a private academy for elites that focuses on abilities and innate potential. Sneaking into one of these places, you're just asking to be shunned and ridiculed by others!

He (Tang Wei) loved this book because the author of Soaring Through the Skies heavily focused on the background story between the righteous and demonic sects. It truly commits to the idea that there are no definite good or wrong sides, depending solely on the intentions and consequences that reflect each individual's moral integrity. The fact that a good person can do bad things in the name of the good, and et cetera. He can understand why the novel isn't that popular since it deals with heavy, challenging topics about life's complicated principles. In modern society, people already face the harsh reality of life and suffer the unchanging times, history repeating itself over and over. The records written by the victors and the vicious cycle begins anew. He (Tang Wei) noticed that in his previous dull life. To avoid that aridity, he drowned himself in books and games after he got out of high school. He didn't want to worry his parents, so he moved out and rented a place in the busy city. Of course, he wasn't a complete shut-in; he got a part-time job just to support his hobbies, feed himself, and pay for his living necessities. That kind of boring life that only had flickers of enjoyment from reading interesting novels and playing games lasted about a couple of months before he got sent here.

As he hopped from tree branch to another, he stood at one of the sinewy boughs of a pine tree, watching the lively scene below. Qiu Xiufeng examined the outer disciples having a drinking party upon the return of Senior First Disciple. He can hear them venting their stress and explaining that the sect will continue to live its peaceful days again. Hidden from their sight, Qiu Xiufeng listened further:

It seems that news about Shizun's abduction and our fight against the Four Heavenly Directions hasn't reached the sect yet. I wonder how Brother An Xi is going to deal with this situation? If word gets out that Senior Brother wanted to break off Fleeting Nine Clouds sect from the Golden Dragon Tower Alliance…

He shook his head before he retreated away from his hiding place. Using the protagonist's memories, he found his residence. Looking up to the sign of his resting hall, he smirked.

Rainbow Coveting Heavens. How illustrious.

Before he can take another step, a familiar soothing voice sounded behind him.

"Still not asleep?"

Qiu Xiufeng froze, then relaxed before glancing over his shoulder almost mechanically.

"E-Eldest Brother… to whom do I owe your important visit?"

An Xi stood there with his arms crossed in front of his chest, looking at him with a stern gaze: "Your ears are really for decoration, aren't they? Didn't I tell you to rest up when we arrived?"

Before Qiu Xiufeng can explain himself, the older dark-haired teen sighed and shook his head before gesturing him to follow him. Stepping past the nervous youth, he let himself enter the hall and made himself home.

The inside of the protagonist's home was simple and similar to An Xi's, except there were more learning materials, manuals, and scrolls. His unmade bed and messy, open wardrobe glaringly made An Xi frown a bit. Following after, Qiu Xiufeng rubs the back of his head, recalling that the protagonist of the novel preferred leaving his things where they are. The original Qiu Xiufeng didn't have time to clean up after himself, only coming into his quarters to sleep, study the manual, hunt, play, and practice his sword. Unlike him, An Xi is a complete opposite. Senior First Disciple isn't only OCD, but a neat freak as well. Seeing this trait of his favorite character flare-up, Qiu Xiufeng couldn't help but be amused inside.

"Forgive this messy disciple, Eldest Brother… You already know how it is," He tried explaining, "I didn't get a chance to clean up because I didn't know that you were going to visit me tonight."

An Xi closed his eyes in repulsion before turning his displeased gaze at the younger, "I didn't come here to berate you about your pigsty of a place."

Qiu Xiufeng watched An Xi sit at one of the chairs surrounding the littered table, propping his elbow up and placing his chin against his fist while deep in thought. The elegant sight of his Eldest Brother made his heart palpitate and scream "what a f***k*ng heartthrob!" and "must protect at all cost!". In other words, he (Tang Wei) is fanboying hard inside.

"I discussed the situation already with the inner disciples and sent an emergency meeting to the other allied sects. We will be departing in a week, so you need to prepare for it."

An emergency meeting? I don't remember this happening. Have my actions deviated the story from its original plot?!

Wearing a calm expression, Qiu Xiufeng strolled in and sat across the other. Typically, a lesser rank isn't allowed to sit down before a senior disciple, but the relations between An Xi and Qiu Xiufeng was a little different from the normal. So, An Xi is used to Qiu Xiufeng doing what he wants to do, as long as it doesn't embarrass him or the sect's honor.

"Eldest Brother, I don't mean to judge your decision, but why me? Wouldn't Second Disciple Su Mingyan or Third Disciple Ling Yun be more appropriate to accompany you? I have yet to break through my cultivation, so this humble disciple will only drag you down." Qiu Xiufeng lightly frowned.

An Xi studied his serious expression before he sighed, "I chose you purely because Master Meng Cao wants me to keep a special eye on you. I can't avoid going to the emergency meeting since I'm the organizer, so I would have to trouble Fourth Younger Brother to accompany me. There's one more thing…"

He raised his hand and snapped his fingers. The air around them trembled as An Xi projected a soundproof barrier around the place. After he did that, he continued: "After the emergency meeting, we will be looking for Master Meng Cao and tracking down the Four Heavenly Directions."

----------------------

Qiu Xiufeng almost shot up from his seat, "Eldest Brother; you can't be serious--"

Wait a minute, was Brother An Xi this impulsive, or did I miss something? That doesn't sound right. According to the novel's An Xi, he would lead the emergency meeting and appoint someone to find Shizun. He's also not one to dirty his hand and work at the front lines! What gives? Did my transmigration to this novel make his character change?

Realizing he had impulsively raised his voice, Qiu Xiufeng coughed awkwardly, "What I mean is that… Eldest Brother shouldn't bother going after Shizun ourselves. Wouldn't it make sense just to order someone like Second or Third Senior Disciples to look for Shizun? Besides, if you just abruptly leave right after the meeting, they will become suspicious of our activities."

Even with my protagonist's halo, I'm not Superm*n or God, okay? I still need to follow the rules governing the novel and carry on my act, or else I fear that lighting will extinguish my life at this instant! Earn karma before thinking of doing things, okay?

Qiu Xiufeng cupped his hands in a salute before bowing his head shortly, "Eldest Brother, please rethink your decision."

An Xi blinked, dumbfounded.

Qiu Xiufeng didn't dare to look up until he heard a defeated sigh from the older male.

"However, my presence is still required in the emergency meeting," An Xi said, "Although we are not going after Shizun right away, I still need an escort."

An escort? That makes sense. Leaving Brother An Xi alone after that incident, him walking alone is just attracting trouble.

"Alright, it will be my honor to escort Eldest Brother to the meeting point." Qiu Xiufeng bowed again, accepting the task.

Without further delay, An Xi stood up from his seat and made his exit, bidding him a good night and telling him to rest well and not dawdle. He must have known somehow that he has been loitering about in the outer disciple's grounds. Once he saw the older youth off, it was time for the blonde to reassess the situation once more.

As far as he can remember, the location of where the emergency meeting should be prominent. He tried to recall which significant place it is while he moved to his bed, sitting in a lotus position. While he was in deep thought, he passed the neverending night meditating. In the midst of it, he found out more information about his current status as the protagonist.

According to the original novel, Qiu Xiufeng has always been a formidable and strong-headed individual. His main traits were his loyalty and undying sense of justice and camaraderie. As the sole protagonist, he possesses a terrifying amount of charisma and charm that attracts little brothers and sisters worldwide. Although he wasn't crafty as the villain, he relied on his street smarts and principles from his experiences to relate to others and overcome all kinds of difficulties. Destined for greatness, he was like a sponge with total absorption unique that can learn any complicated martial arts and apply it to his cultivation in a unique manner. He (Tang Wei) liked that the protagonist didn't merely use the "copy and paste" method, choosing to evolve the techniques with his own hands. He remembered always looking forward to the next serialization, anticipating how the bright, ingenious hero created complex spells and used them against his enemies.

Taking the liberty to peek into his inner realm, an everlasting scenery of open skies greeted him at his descent. There was no wind or gravity within this space, but he felt his figure was weightless, his shoulder-length blonde locks almost levitating past his shoulders. Eyes widening, he looked down and saw his undisturbed reflection on the mirror-like surface of the abyss below his soles. His heart almost jumped out of his chest when he realized that beyond the translucent "water" lies a bright white spherical object that seemed to throb with energy. In his mind, he knew what it was, thanks to the memories of the protagonist.

It was his "dormant core."

Excitement bubbled within him, witnessing the materialization of his imagination from the novel before him. Before he can examine his surroundings further, a voice caught him off guard.

"Who are you?"

Qiu Xiufeng turned to the source of the voice and gaped.

Another Qiu Xiufeng stares back at him.

Startled beyond words, the "copy" spoke again. This time, the tone was full of suspicion and caution.

Upon closer look, it turns out that "he" wasn't a complete duplicate. Qiu Xiufeng #2 wore a different set of clothes, a traditional-looking white layer of robes that mimics a monk's style. His blonde hair is also at floor-length as well. Compared to the other, his appearance is similar to an immortal.

A thought came to his mind.

This must be the original Qiu Xiufeng! The original protagonist's soul!

Typically in a transmigration story… wouldn't the original soul been yeeted away somewhere else when I took control of their body? It turns out that the real Qiu Xiufeng is still bound in this mortal flesh.

Qiu Xiufeng #1 properly adjusted his position and paid his respects to the original protagonist. "Tang Wei greets you, Brother Qiu."

….

After a lengthy discussion between the two similar-looking figures, the original Qiu Xiufeng (whom Tang Wei affectionately called "Brother Qiu") had relaxed and opened himself up to the new soul inside his mortal body. Upon hearing the current affairs outside their shared inner realm, he frowned lightly. He still finds it hard to believe that he merely exists within pages of a novel, as Tang Wei described. What's even more troubling was the disappearance of their Shizun and the looming threat of the Four Heavenly Directions against the Fleeting Nine Clouds Sect.

Qiu Xiufeng: "If what you say is correct, we need to find a definitive proof that Shizun has been taken away by the Four Heavenly Directions. Merely blaming them without any evidence will degrade our sect's reputation and attract other sects' troubles. Although I cannot help you physically, I can guide you."

Tang Wei: "I appreciate your help, Brother Qiu. I'm still unsure why I was put in this novel by divine intervention, but I will do my best to protect Brother An Xi and the sect while I'm here. You can rely on me."

Brother Qiu mirrored the same light-hearted smile that he was also wearing.

Tang Wei: "By the way, Brother Qiu. According to the novel, you and Brother An Xi bore enmity towards the other. When I shared your body, Brother An Xi treats me like any other regular disciple, even letting me accompany him to the emergency meeting with the Golden Dragon Tower Alliance. Do you think me coming here in your world changed his attitude or something?"

Qiu Xiufeng threw him an indignant look, clearly saying, 'what are you talking about? Eldest Brother never maltreated me before.'

Tang Wei blinked, bewildered. Did I just maybe misinterpreted their communication in the novel? Even though Eldest Brother An Xi is my favorite character, he was a cold-looking person who wasn't afraid of showing his discontent and hatred towards the protagonist! Hell, the author even wrote about ten pages of Qiu Xiufeng receiving terrible punishments and verbal abuse from the villain-to-be each chapter before the Four Heavenly Directions slew him!

While he was at a loss of words, Qiu Xiufeng reassured him: "Ever since I've met Eldest Brother An Xi, he didn't wrong nor abused me. He's sharp-tongued and always bearing that unbothered, distant look, but Eldest Brother tolerated and taught me properly to become the man I am today. You could say that I'm a "fan" of Eldest Brother An Xi."

The male used the term he heard the other referred to himself, which astounded Tang Wei since he said it right.

….

After an hour of talking with the original protagonist, Tang Wei bid his farewells for now to the original protagonist. Keeping in mind the information he received from their time spent together, Tang Wei became Qiu Xiufeng once more and woke up from his dream.

Opening his eyes, he didn't realize that he meditated for the whole night. Surprisingly, he didn't have any bags under his eyes, nor he looked too pale. Perhaps "meditating" in this world has the same benefits of "healing oneself." Thus he feels like he actually rested?

He got ready for the day and gathered his things. Today is the day they will depart for the emergency meeting. The sun was already peeking from the horizon when he became conscious, its gentle warm rays grazing the foliage of the surrounding greenery. Qiu Xiufeng exited his slumber halls and headed to the residence of his Eldest Brother. Fortunately, there was a stone path that leads through the bamboo forest where An Xi resides. Surrounded by lush and white chrysanthemums, Qiu Xiufeng has finally met the official visualization of his favorite character's dwelling. Coming out from the thicket, he raised his gaze to meet the familiar-looking bamboo hut amid the flower fields. A light fragrant smell wafted around the area, making people feel like they're entering a dream realm. However, this effect only lasted a second for Qiu Xiufeng. He recognized that it was one of the Eldest Brother's defense mechanisms to prevent trespassers and those who have ill intentions. One might say that this is genuinely the stronghold of the Fleeting Nine Clouds Sect next to the cold spring waterfall of Shizun.

It didn't take him long till he found the person he was looking for when his lilac hues met a lonely, graceful figure holding a watering bucket and a wooden spoon. Around him were different sorts of budding plants, freshly soaked, their leaves twinkling with moisture. There were a couple of songbirds also gracing the presence of that individual.

Looking at him like this, he seemed like a noble prince out of a fantasy book rather than a powerful villain-to-be. That's my favorite character for you.

The thought unconsciously surfaces from the depths of the blonde onlooker's mind. Simply calling out to this beautiful creature feels like it would shatter the ethereal sequence, but all good things must come to an end. Clearing his throat first loudly to announce his presence, Qiu Xiufeng took a cumbersome step forward.

An Xi carefully put away the watering bucket when he heard faint footsteps approaching his location. Fixing his bearings, he turned to greet the cheerful blonde. His usual complacent expression simply nodded as they exchanged their salutations before thoroughly scanned him up and down. Although the Fourth Disciple was a rowdy, hyper youth, he didn't expect the young one to follow his orders last night. Seeing him refreshed and full of vigor this early in the morning, he hid his surprise perfectly.

Qiu Xiufeng's voice then broke his momentary silence: "Eldest Brother, are you set for the journey? Will we ride our swords?"

An Xi shook his head: "No, we will walk and ride the horse-drawn carriage instead."

Qiu Xiufeng's initial excitement ebbed away a little, but he can understand why the other preferred that kind of travel. Riding the swords would only attract unwanted attention and make them conspicuous to the common people and other sects who have been eyeing them. Then again, it is an emergency meeting. Shouldn't they choose a faster travel method to get to the location as fast as possible?

As if An Xi read his mind, the older pulled a couple of tickets from his waistband and handed it to the confused blonde.

"This is…"

"The location of the meeting isn't far off from Chang'an. We will use this teleportation talisman to cross the two cities going to Chang'an and start our journey there. Once we reached the capital, then we will ride the rest using the horse-drawn cart."

Qiu Xiufeng nodded in understanding before he beamed, "Eldest Brother is wise for preparing this advance.

After bidding their farewells once more to their fellow disciples and strengthening the barrier around their home, the two set off on their journey without any more delay. For the teleportation talisman to work, they needed to use a specific location rich with natural qi. Of course, that perfect place could only exist near their Shizun's home. Arriving at their master's residence, An Xi set up the formation and sealed off the house from outsiders. Just in case.

The ground of which Eldest Brother drew the spell lit up gently. Within seconds, the light grew and enveloped their figures until it was gone. Along with their presence, the formation also disintegrated as it was only meant to be used once.

In a blink of an eye, they arrived at the prosperous capital of the mainland: Chang'an. It took a moment for Qiu Xiufeng to stabilize himself as it was his first time being transported like that ever since he came to this world. The first thing he noticed was the bustling crowd noises surrounding them and the smell of street food and perfumes lingering in the humid air. Lilac hues widened at the sight of the busy main road then flashed to the one beside him. An Xi remained unperturbed by the sudden change of scenery, maintaining his aloof expression. He watched this older disciple pull out his jade fan and fan himself elegantly.

From a prince to a nobleman… he really does stand out, doesn't he?

Qiu Xiufeng kept his smile to himself before realizing they were in the middle of the street. How did no one notice them appearing out of thin air?

"Let's hurry along. We need to catch the fastest horse available." An Xi started walking forward, not waiting for the other to adjust himself. Qiu Xiufeng can only fumble in his steps before he trailed after the other, observing the city's hustling and scurrying residents. Treading through this busy city is similar to visiting a lively mall store having its clearance or something.

Qiu Xiufeng: [A mall store?]

Tang Wei: [Right. Back in my world, our marketplace will be full of people on those special days, like Black Friday, or just weekend sales, or end of the season--]

The blonde stopped thinking. Did… Did the original protagonist…

Qiu Xiufeng: [I've been here the whole time.]

Tang Wei: [!!!] You've been here the whole time, and yet, you didn't say anything?

Qiu Xiufeng: [I didn't want to scare you, and I can read your mind. This is my body, after all.]

Tang Wei: He got a point there. [Brother Qiu, if you just suddenly come out of nowhere, you'll eventually give this humble one a cardiac arrest in the future. Okay?]

Qiu Xiufeng: [Sir Tang, since you've read the novel--- (ah, I've been ignored *cry*) -- will you mind telling me what comes next after traveling here?]

Tang Wei: [Aside from saving Brother An Xi from the first incident, everything has been progressing the same. Instead of initiating the emergency meeting to annihilate the Four Heavenly Directions, Brother An Xi organized it. Then, the next thing that's going to happen is meeting the protagonist's--]

Tang Wei paused and set his mouth in a thin line. Oh, right… Isn't this the part where Qiu Xiufeng will encounter the first member of his little brother army? I believe he's part of the Thousand Dragon Head Sect: Zhe Lan!

Inside his head, the two identical figures were silent as the original Qiu Xiufeng waited for his answer. Still, he is aware that the quiet modern soul has given his reply via his thought process. Yet, he wanted the other to tell him anyway. Somehow, making Tang Wei talk to him is another way for the protagonist to confirm his existence and affirm his intentions towards the sect and his Eldest Brother. So far, he noted Tang Wei's odd fascination towards An Xi and how innocent he is compared to him. He didn't mind this at all as it was rather refreshing to see a new side unfold. However, ever since the arrival of Tang Wei…

There was another person who started acting strangely too. No matter how great the pretense was, Qiu Xiufeng knew the real An Xi. To avoid suspicion, he lied to Tang Wei about An Xi's treatment towards him. He and Eldest Brother indeed had a feud and had hated him to the core for being treated differently. After that morning, before they met with Shizun, he felt that Eldest Brother was different somehow, but he didn't question it, thinking it was a ploy to let his guard down. Qiu Xiufeng wasn't entirely convinced until his soul was pushed back to his inner realm, and Tang Wei wrested the body's control from him. It hasn't been a couple of days since this change, and till now, he is still suspicious of him.

He decided not to expose these findings to the oblivious modern soul, choosing to be an onlooker for now until the situation requires his presence.

Outside their internal discussion, Qiu Xiufeng and An Xi arrived at a building to get a horse cart for the rest of their journey. An Xi observed the oddly quiet child beside him from his peripherals, wondering what he is thinking about. Brushing this off, the senior disciple quickly acquired a high-grade carriage. He turned down the offer of getting a coachman since the place they're going to is inaccessible to ordinary folks. Exiting the building, he saw a distant figure fastly approaching them with a grim expression.

"You there! Halt!"

Just in time for that stranger to arrive, Tang Wei returned to reality and almost spat out blood.

Speak of the devil-

A splendid young man in his early teens wearing white martial arts clothes with gold embellishments and intricate design of a dragon on his chest paused before them. His hair tied in a high ponytail, and on his waist, saddled the infamous broad sword known to Jiang Hu: Qingqiu. Qiu Xiufeng couldn't mistake that slanted brows and crimson hues like precious rubies.

It's the Ice Dragon King, Zhe Lan!