23

Chapter 23: Martial Arts Contest to Win a Bride (Part 2) 

Tang Tianzong glanced sideways and found that the person who came up to the ring was Murong Qiu from Baiyun Villa who was sitting next to him. He couldn't help but snorted coldly and said, "Here comes another ignorant person!" 

Murong Qiu had a handsome face, a high nose bridge, and a slender figure. The only flaw was his squinting eyes. Today, he was wearing a plain robe and holding a precious sword. The scabbard was inlaid with five-colored gems. It was obvious that this sword was no ordinary item! 

Murong Qiu went up to the ring and walked directly to Hong Zhanlin's side. His fingers were like swords, tapping Hong Zhanlin's body a few times. Hong Zhanlin's face gradually turned red. Although the silver needle was not taken out, he had already regained his ability to move! 

Hong Zhanlin bowed and said, "Thank you, Master Murong, for your help!" 

Murong Qiu smiled and said, "Young Master Hong, you don't have to be polite. I just need to do a little favor. If you really want to get rid of the danger, you have to subdue him! Young Master Hong, please go to the side and rest. We can talk about other things after I remove the silver needles from your body!" 

Hong Zhanlin nodded, followed his instructions, got off the stage, and sat back in his seat! 

Tang Tianzong had been looking at Murong Qiu coldly. He was extremely angry when he saw that Murong Qiu seemed to have predicted his defeat and made it sound as easy as taking something out of a bag. 

With a crisp clang, Murong Qiu had already drawn his sword. Everyone took a closer look and saw that the sword was completely transparent. They didn't know what material it was made of, and there was a faint glow on the sword! 

Tie Rufeng, who had been silent the whole time, couldn't help but praise: "What a good sword!" 

Lingxuzi was well-informed and stroked his long beard as he said, "This sword is called 'Liuguang' and is a family heirloom of the Murong family. It is made of heavenly crystal cold iron and can cut hair with a gust of wind and iron like mud!" 

Xue Hongfei looked at Nangong Lie and said meaningfully: "Since Murong He passed the Liuguang Sword to him, it means that Murong Qiu will definitely be the master of Baiyun Villa in the future!" 

Nangong Lie knew what Xue Hongfei meant. Since Murong Qiu was going to inherit Baiyun Villa, he would definitely not marry into the Nangong family. However, he still smiled and said, "With the Liuguang Sword in hand, Tang Tianzong's "Black Silkworm Armor" is useless. Let's just wait and see the battle between the two! We can talk about other things later!" 

Of course, if Murong Qiu won, he would not marry Nangong Tianqi, so the contest would be in vain. But now the arrow was on the string. Tang Tianzong's words not only angered everyone present, but also challenged the authority of the Nangong family. As the master, Nangong Lie naturally could not take action himself, otherwise he would be accused of bullying the weak. Among the people present, there were probably only a handful who could defeat Tang Tianzong, and even fewer who were willing to fight. So they could only put their hopes on Murong Qiu to kill Tang Tianzong's arrogance! 

Zhu San looked at Murong Qiu and suddenly remembered what the mad beggar had said, that he was seriously injured because he had offended the Murong family, and that Murong Yan, the eldest daughter of the Murong family, had been deflowered by the mad beggar. Thinking of this, Zhu San could not help but become very interested in Murong Qiu and said, "Young Master Murong, be careful!" 

Murong Qiu looked up at Zhu San and nodded in greeting! 

Murong Qiu stood with his sword horizontally, made a starting gesture and said: "Make your move!" 

Tang Tianzong snorted coldly and raised his hand to throw two plum blossom darts. He knew that Murong Qiu had a magical weapon in his hand, so he was more cautious! 

The Murong family is one of the four great families, and they are very powerful in Fujian. Their martial arts are extraordinary, and their swordsmanship is the most exquisite! 

The sword is the king of all weapons and is the most common weapon in the martial arts world. Among the nine major martial arts sects, except for Shaolin and Beggars' Sect, the other sects are mainly based on swordsmanship, and each has its own strengths! 

The Murong family's phantom swordsmanship is famous for its strangeness, changeability and unpredictability! 

Murong Qiu whistled softly, and the Flowing Light Sword slashed out a dazzling white light. After hearing two "ding ling" sounds, the plum blossom dart had already fallen to the ground. At the same time, the Flowing Light Sword continued to move forward, heading straight for Tang Tianzong's Dantian! 

Seeing Murong Qiu's ordinary move stabbing at his chest, Tang Tianzong suddenly transformed his sword into three swords, and quickly used his unique footwork to dodge Murong Qiu's move! 

Murong Qiu's move failed, so he shook his Liuguang sword and created a sword flower. This move was called "Shadow of Willow and Shade of Flowers"! 

Tang Tianzong did not deal with Murong Qiu the same way he dealt with Hong Zhanlin. After dodging the previous move, he waved his hands and launched eight hidden weapons from different directions to attack eight acupoints on Murong Qiu's body. This move was exactly the "Eight-armed Swimming Dragon" from the Tang Sect's unique martial arts! 

Murong Qiu was not in a hurry. He used the "Silent Shadow and Deep Jade" move to draw an invisible barrier in front of him. With a "ding ding dong dong" sound, Tang Tianzong's eight hidden weapons were all shot down! 

After Murong Qiu knocked down the hidden weapon, he suddenly moved closer to Tang Tianzong and thrust out twelve swords in an instant! 

Tang Tianzong didn't expect Murong Qiu to come so fast. He was shocked and had to quickly dodge back. As he retreated, a piece of his brocade robe was cut off! 

Murong Qiu's footwork was fast, and the sword in his hand was even faster. With a move called "Like a Shadow", the tip of his sword swept towards Tang Tianzong's lower body, not giving Tang Tianzong any chance to breathe! 

Tang Tianzong then realized that Murong Qiu's martial arts skills were indeed superb, and he was indeed the strongest opponent he had ever encountered since his debut! 

Tang Tianzong was arrogant by nature. He did not come to participate in the martial arts competition to find a bride on his own initiative. He was forced by his stepmother. He was naturally resentful. After coming here, he was treated coldly by the Nangong family, which made him even more angry. So he wanted to vent his anger in the martial arts competition, but he never expected to meet such a strong opponent like Murong Qiu! 

Although Tang Tianzong has a perverse personality, he has also mastered the essence of the Tang Sect's unique skills. He knows that he has just fought with Hong Zhanlin for a long time, and his internal energy has been greatly consumed. If he continues to fight, he will definitely lose! 

Tang Tianzong suddenly rose from the ground, leaping three meters into the air, and roared: "Boy, try the Tang Sect's unique skill "Flower Rain All Over the Sky"!" 

As soon as these words came out, many people in the martial arts world exclaimed: "Oh no!" Even Xue Hongfei couldn't help but frown! 

"Flower Rain" is one of the most exquisite moves among the Tang Sect's hidden weapons. Dozens of different hidden weapons are launched at the opponent one after another, including the ultimate hidden weapon "Thousand Leaves Drizzle". When "Thousand Leaves Drizzle" is thrown out, it is in the shape of a ball, like a flower bud. When it reaches within three feet of the opponent, it suddenly explodes, and the twenty-one silver needles hidden in it are sprinkled at the opponent like drizzle, making it impossible to defend against! 

In a flash, Murong Qiu seemed to have been prepared, and used the most exquisite move of the Phantom Sword Technique, "Shadowless and Invisible". His figure suddenly changed and became elusive. His figure and sword light were everywhere on the stage! 

Everyone was stunned, and time seemed to have frozen. The huge venue was completely silent, so quiet that you could hear your heartbeat! 

The two men on the stage were staring at each other, expressionless and silent! 

After a long while, Tang Tianzong suddenly said: "I lost!" 

As soon as these words came out, there was an uproar at the scene! 

Tang Tianzong's eyes flickered as he said, "According to the agreement, I will take out the silver needle for him! But today's defeat is caused by me, Tang Tianzong, who lost to you, Murong Qiu! My Tang Sect did not lose to you, Baiyun Villa!" 

Murong Qiu moved his mouth but did not speak. He just watched Tang Tianzong take out the needle! 

After Tang Tianzong took the needle out of Hong Zhanlin's hand, he walked to Murong Qiu's side, suddenly clasped his hands together and said to Murong Qiu: "See you later!" After that, he left with his followers! 

This move surprised everyone present. Murong Qiu not only defeated Tang Tianzong in martial arts, but also convinced him. Everyone complimented Murong Qiu! 

Xue Hongfei smiled and said, "I didn't expect the Phantom Sword Technique to be so exquisite that it could easily break the "Flower Rain"!" 

Hearing Xue Hongfei's words, Zhu San curled his lips and smiled: "Not necessarily!" 

Xue Hongfei raised his eyebrows and asked, "Oh? What do you mean?" 

Zhu San smiled and did not answer. Instead, he said to Nangong Lie, "Brother, it is already past noon. Should we take a break first and continue in the afternoon?" 

Nangong Lie nodded in understanding, stood up and said, "My fellow martial artists, today is hot, and it is noon now, so I believe everyone must be tired. I have asked my servants to prepare some wine, so please go to Qiushui Pavilion for dinner! The martial arts competition will continue at noon!" 

Nangong Tianqi took Shen Yuqing's hand and said, "Dad and the others went to Qiushui Pavilion, it's too noisy there! Sister Yu, Sister Xue, Aunt Yao, let's go to Qishui Pavilion! It's quieter there!" 

Nangong Tianqi and the other three went to Qishui Pavilion, while Nangong Lie and the others went to Qiushui Pavilion! 

Xue Hongfei was impatient and asked, "Master Lin, you haven't answered the question just now?" 

Zhu San saw that all the martial arts masters present had left, so he spoke up: "In my humble opinion, although Murong Qiu broke through the "Flower Rain of the Sky", it was not an easy victory, but a narrow victory!" 

The five of them walked slowly, and Zhu San said again: "If I am not mistaken, Murong Qiu should also be injured! Taoist priest, am I right?" 

Lingxuzi was still stroking his long beard, and said slowly: "Master Lin is indeed worthy of his reputation, he has a good eye! I was just suspicious and not sure, but Master Lin already has an idea in his mind!" 

Xue Hongfei asked: "Oh? How did he get injured?" 

Zhu San said: "When the two of them fought, in a flash, Murong Qiu dodged many hidden weapons until he was in front of Tang Tianzong. Tang Tianzong finally fired a "Thousand Leaf Rain". When Murong Qiu knocked it down, the twenty-one silver needles had already flown out. Although Murong Qiu reacted very quickly and dodged most of them in the air, one or two still hit him, and they hit his right hand holding the sword!" 

Nangong Lie laughed and said, "My dear brother, you really have a sharp eye! The silver needle pierced Murong Qiu's wrist, but it didn't affect him. The Liuguang sword in his hand still pierced Tang Tianzong!" 

Zhu San said: "Brother, you are right. When Murong Qiu's sword was about to pierce Tang Tianzong's chest, he suddenly retracted the sword, so Tang Tianzong was not hurt at all!" 

Lingxuzi said: "Murong Qiu is not only an expert in swordsmanship and martial arts, but more importantly, he is kindhearted. No wonder Murong He gave him the family heirloom sword so early. It is true that a good father will have a good son!" 

Zhu San smiled and said, "You reap what you sow! In fact, if Tang Tianzong didn't appreciate Murong Qiu's kindness and continued the fight, Murong Qiu would definitely lose! Tang Tianzong really impressed me. Not only did he admit defeat generously, but he also secretly removed the silver needle from Murong Qiu's wrist, allowing Murong Qiu to not only win, but also win with dignity!" 

Nangong Lie nodded and said, "That's right! Although Tang Tianzong is arrogant and conceited, he is also a gentleman. After this incident, my opinion of him has changed a lot. He has not humiliated the reputation of the Tang Clan!" 

Xue Hongfei laughed and said, "As the saying goes, the more a mother-in-law looks at her son-in-law, the more they resemble each other! My brother-in-law! You are not much different!" 

Nangong Lie smiled and said, "You are already the head of a sect, but you still act like a young man. You can't change your habit of joking!" 

The five of them walked and talked until they had already arrived at Qiushui Pavilion. The hall was filled with more than 30 tables full of people from the martial arts world. Some were drinking, some were playing rock-paper-scissors. It was really lively! 

Nangong Lie and the other four went up to the second floor, where there were only a few tables set up, specially prepared to entertain the leaders of various factions. Because those who were defeated in the morning had already left Huanxiu Villa, there were still two or three tables left! 

Nangong Lie and the others sat down in order of importance, but saw Murong Qiu coming over with a wine glass, saying, "Since I came to Huanxiu Villa, I have always been cared for by Uncle Nangong, and I have no way to express my gratitude. I would like to use this glass of wine to wish Uncle Nangong a long life! I hope that today's martial arts competition will be a complete success, and that you will find a good son-in-law as you wish! I will drink first to show my respect!" 

Murong Qiu's words first expressed his gratitude to Nangong Lie for quietly covering up Murong Qiu's injury, and on the other hand, he clearly stated his position that he would not marry into the Nangong family! 

Nangong Lie naturally knew what Murong Qiu was worried about. He did not respond directly, but shook his head and said, "Speaking of taking care of you, the one who takes the most care of you is not me, but Master Lin. He is the one who is most aware of the situation!" 

Murong Qiu was smart and understood Nangong Lie's meaning immediately. He turned around and poured another glass of wine, walked up to Zhu San and said, "Master Lin, thank you for your kindness!" 

Zhu San smiled and said, "Mr. Murong, you are too kind! I didn't do anything! You are young and promising, and you are kind-hearted. You are a blessing to the martial arts world!" 

Zhu San picked up the wine glass, drank it all, and sighed: "Alas! If my Lin family had a successor like you, we wouldn't have to take refuge here!" 

When Zhu San said this, Lingxuzi and Xue Hongfei were surprised and asked, "Where did Master Lin get this from?" 

Zhu San smiled bitterly and said, "I'm afraid only the owner of Nangong Manor knows the secrets of this matter!" 

Nangong Lie said: "Don't worry, my dear brother. Today is a good time to tell all the martial arts friends present here about this matter and expose the Shura Cult's trick!" 

Tie Rufeng suddenly asked, "Shura Sect?" 

Zhu San nodded and said, "That's right! It's the Shura Cult! In order to steal the martial arts secrets of my Lin family, the Shura Cult used the traitor Jia Quan as a guide and sneaked into Ziyue Villa in the middle of the night to attack me. Ziyue Villa was caught off guard and almost everyone in the villa was assassinated. Only I and my wife survived! I was worried that the Shura Cult would make trouble again, so I abandoned Ziyue Villa and came to my brother!" 

Xue Hongfei suddenly slammed the table and stood up, saying, "Damn it! There is such a bold and ruthless person! Master Lin, please rest assured that if you need me, Xue Hongfei, please feel free to ask!" 

Lingxuzi was a cautious person, so he asked, "How did Master Lin determine that it was done by someone from the Shura Cult?" 

Zhu San took out the jade token and showed it to everyone, saying, "Jia Quan was originally from Ziyue Mountain Villa. He was expelled by my father for violating the sect rules. He led the team this time. The people of Shura Sect all wore black clothes and covered their faces with black scarves. They were ruthless and killed everyone, regardless of whether they were women or children!" 

Tie Rufeng said: "It seems that the Shura Cult is really going to take action!" 

Nangong Lie said: "Captain Tie, you are a member of the government, have you noticed the unusual movements of the Shura Cult?" 

Tie Rufeng said expressionlessly, "The Six Sects have been keeping an eye on the Shura Cult for several years. Although their actions are secretive, we still have some information about their movements! The Shura Cult has been secretly collecting money and property, colluding with underworld gangs, and bribing corrupt officials in recent years. There must be a big conspiracy!" 

Nangong Lie said: "Then in your opinion, should we take this opportunity to make their conspiracy public?" 

Tie Rufeng shook his head and said, "Absolutely not, the time is not yet ripe! The enemy is in the dark and I am in the light. We have not figured out the enemy's strength and details. If we announce it now, we will only alert the enemy!" 

Nangong Lie looked around at everyone and said, "For now, only a few of us know about this, so we just need to prepare ourselves! Don't worry, my dear brother. When the time is right, I will unite with the righteous people in the martial arts world to wipe out the Shura Cult and avenge you!" 

Zhu San nodded and said, "That's the only way at the moment!" 

Everyone has made up their mind and stopped discussing. They all eat their meals without saying anything more. 

On the shore of Taihu Lake, in the Qishui Pavilion, a breeze blows across the lake, creating ripples on the surface! 

There are only four sisters here, Nangong Tianqi, Shen Yao and Shen Yuqing. It is quiet and elegant, which is really the opposite of the noisy Qiushui Pavilion! 

Not only the environment, but also the lunch here is very light, with only some fruit and vegetable desserts and vegetarian dishes! 

Nangong Tianqi slowly savored a crispy flower cake, staring at the lake in a trance! 

Shen Xueqing, who had a good appetite, had already finished a whole plate of cakes and was finishing the fruits on the table. Seeing Nangong Tianqi like this, she chuckled and said, "Oh! Which young master are you thinking about, Sister Tianqi?" 

Nangong Tianqi smiled and said, "Sister Xue, don't talk nonsense!" 

Shen Xueqing continued: "Let me guess, is it that Du Huanshan? No, no! Is it Hong Zhanlin? Or Murong Qiu?" 

Nangong Tianqi glared at her unhappily and said, "Eat quickly! Even so many cakes can't stop you from eating!" 

Shen Xueqing became interested and kept insisting, "It can't be that Tang Tianzong, right? That boy is so arrogant! Humph!" 

Shen Yuqing said: "Sister Xue, stop making random guesses! Sister Tianqi is not worried about these things!" 

Shen Yao said: "In my opinion, there are almost no people who can beat Murong Qiu in this competition, so Murong Qiu will naturally become the winner of this competition, right? It's a pity..." 

Nangong Tianqi sighed and said, "For me, it doesn't matter who wins. As long as he has an upright heart, I will marry him and stay with him forever. Who told me to bear the responsibility of the Nangong family?" 

Shen Xueqing said: "Sister Tianqi, Xue'er doesn't think the same as you do! Xue'er's husband must be the one that Xue'er loves with all her heart. Xue'er doesn't want to spend her whole life with someone she doesn't love!" 

Shen Yuqing knew who Shen Xueqing was talking about. She should have been angry and blamed Shen Xueqing, but after what happened yesterday, she felt a little more uneasy and confused. Shen Yuqing looked at her sister, wanting to say something but stopping herself! 

Nangong Tianqi suddenly smiled and said, "Sister Xue, you said that. Could it be that you already have someone you love? Tell me, which young man do you like?" 

When asked by Nangong Tianqi, Shen Xueqing also became shy. She looked at her mother, then at her sister, and said, "No! Xue'er is still young!" 

Nangong Tianqi said: "You just talked so clearly, you must have a lover, haha, Aunt Yao, girls should not be kept when they grow up!" 

Shen Yao thought of the time when she and Xue'er shared a husband, and her face turned red. She said incoherently: "It's as it should be...it's as it should be..." 

Nangong Tianqi said: "Aunt Yao is so heartless. She has raised a daughter so big, but now she is going to marry her off to another family!" 

Shen Yao thought to herself, "She should marry into her own family!" She looked at Shen Xueqing involuntarily and found that she had already lowered her head in shame, but the blush on her face was still clearly visible! 

Nangong Tianqi didn't know what she said, why the mother and daughter blushed at the same time, she was so surprised that she could only look at Shen Yuqing, hoping to get an answer from her! 

Shen Yuqing looked at the expressions of the mother and daughter, and connected the past few days' situations in his mind. He thought about it carefully, and then he suddenly realized it! 

Shen Yuqing, who understood what was happening, stared at Shen Yao closely, his eyes full of anger. Shen Yao did not dare to look back and lowered her head in guilt! 

The four of them were all silent, each with their own thoughts, and the atmosphere suddenly became extremely awkward! 

Nangong Tianqi was the first to break the deadlock. She stood up and said, "It's almost noon. Let's go to the training ground!" 

Shen Yao stood up quickly as if she had been pardoned, and took Shen Xueqing's hand and said, "Xue'er, let's go!" 

Shen Yuqing was walking at the end. Shen Yao felt as if his gaze was piercing through her back, so she walked very fast! 

When we arrived at the training ground, we saw that the well-fed and well-drinking people were already waiting there. The crowd was noisy and talking a lot! 

A shirtless man said: "In my opinion, the winner today must be Master Murong!" 

A thin man nearby said, "Maybe not! There are still so many people who haven't made a move yet. How do you know he will win?" 

The shirtless man replied: "Who? Is it you? Go on stage and try! I'm afraid you'll be beaten off the stage before you even have a chance to fight!" 

The thin man said: "It's not you who are so great, why are you so proud?" 

The shirtless man said, "Hey! You're still challenging me! Do you want to have a competition?" 

The skinny man looked at the other man's burly figure and said half-submissively: "Who wants to fight you? If you are strong, go fight Master Murong!" 

The shirtless man laughed and said, "It seems that you also admit that Master Murong is the best! Hahahaha!" 

A drum sounded, and everyone fell silent and looked up to the attic! 

Nangong Lie smiled and said, "This morning's competition was wonderful. All the martial artists showed their unique martial arts skills. Master Murong Qiu from Baiyun Villa has won temporarily. I hope more heroes will come on stage next time. Okay, let's continue the competition!" 

On the stage, Murong Qiu stood holding a sword, his white clothes fluttering in the sunlight, looking very heroic! 

Murong Qiu held his sword and bowed, saying: "I am not talented, I hope you seniors can give me some pointers!" 

The crowd became lively again, but no one came on stage! 

After a moment, Murong Qiu said again: "Is there no one willing to give me advice? Then I have no choice but to step down!" 

Mo Haoyu, who was sitting in the first seat, looked up at the attic and saw Shen Yuqing's serious expression, as if thinking about something. He almost wanted to go on stage, but still hesitated and didn't go up! 

Suddenly, someone shouted, "Wait a minute! I'm here to fight with you!" 

A figure suddenly appeared on the stage. When everyone looked closely, they found that it was an old man in his fifties. His hair and beard were all white, and he was quite bald. There was a pot-lid on the top of his head. He was holding a big pipe, wearing a ragged straw raincoat and straw sandals. He looked just like a homeless person. 

When everyone saw the old man like this, they immediately burst into laughter! 

Someone said, "Old man, your bones are not enough for Master Murong, pack up and go home!" 

Someone asked, "Old man, you have one foot in the coffin, and you are still looking for a wife?" 

The old man ignored the comments of the people below. He tapped the pipe and took out a handful of gray-black tobacco from the cloth bag he carried with him. He slowly filled it with tobacco, lit it, took a long puff, and smoked it while shaking his head, but he didn't say a word! 

Murong Qiu calmly watched the old man in front of him. Although he looked unruly, he was calm and composed. Judging from his movements when he just stepped onto the stage, his Qinggong skills were probably not inferior to his own! 

Murong Qiu looked at him for a long time, and suddenly remembered something. He hurriedly bowed and said, "Senior, are you the legendary "South Sea Fisherman" Weng Buping?" 

The old man's narrowed eyes suddenly shot out two rays of light, and he said in surprise: "When I was wandering in the martial arts world, I'm afraid you weren't even born yet! How come you know my name?" 

Murong Qiu said respectfully: "Before I set foot in the martial arts world, my father drew a picture album of the appearance characteristics of the martial arts masters in the past and taught it to me, so I have some knowledge of them! My father highly respects the martial arts of Elder Weng. It is a great blessing for me to receive the teachings of Elder Weng today!" 

Weng Buping laughed and said, "I didn't expect you to be so sweet. Actually, I am from the same generation as your grandfather Murong Shiyuan! Today, I will give you a try to see how much of the Murong family's unique skills you have learned!" 

Murong Qiu said: "I am not very knowledgeable and have only learned a few basic things. Today I dare to ask you for advice, I hope you can forgive me!" 

Weng Buping took another sip and said, "Stop talking nonsense, kid, make your move!" 

Murong Qiu whistled softly: "I'm sorry!" At the same time, he drew his sword and attacked Weng Buping like lightning! 

Murong Qiu knew that Weng Buping was a famous master who had retired for many years, so he used the "Fleeting Light" move from the Phantom Sword Technique. This move was swift and fierce. One sword turned into thirty-six swords, covering the thirty-six vital points on Weng Buping's upper body. Coupled with the flashing cold light of the Flowing Light Sword, the whole place was really filled with flowing sword light, which was very dazzling! 

Weng Buping was indeed decisive. He raised his right arm and tapped the pipe lightly, directly blocking Murong Qiu's sword path. The sword lights all over the field disappeared in an instant. Weng Buping swung the pipe, and it suddenly grew to more than two meters long. The thin front end was whipped towards Murong Qiu's back! 

Zhu San didn't know where this person came from, so in order to avoid exposing his identity, he naturally couldn't ask! 

Lingxuzi had been staring at Weng Buping since he came on stage, and seemed to have some doubts, but he just couldn't be sure of his identity. When Murong Qiu called out Weng Buping's name, Lingxuzi nodded secretly and said, "It's him!" 

Xue Hongfei was surprised and said, "It's him! Didn't he retire a long time ago? Why is he here today?" 

Nangong Lie's face was solemn, and he frowned and said, "I have carefully observed that Weng Buping was not at the scene this morning. He must have just arrived here. Whether he came here on purpose or just happened to pass by, it is not clear at this time. Let's wait and see what happens!" 

Xue Hongfei nodded and said: "No matter what his purpose is, at least Murong Qiu will be in trouble!" 

While the three of them were talking, Murong Qiu and Weng Buping had already exchanged more than thirty moves. The situation was extremely stalemate, and it was unclear who had the upper hand! 

There is a secret in the pipe in Weng Buping's hand. When extended, it is as long as two meters, and when shortened, it is only one and a half feet long. It can be used as a long spear or a short halberd. It is unpredictable! 

Weng Buping was seen holding the extended pipe in both hands and attacking Murong Qiu, poking, stabbing, stabbing, and picking, all of which were spear techniques, and each move was aimed at Murong Qiu's throat, which was really toxic! 

Murong Qiu responded carefully. He had the power of a sword. Weng Buping's spear did not dare to confront the Liuguang Sword head-on, so Murong Qiu was still able to respond calmly, and occasionally even counterattacked a few times to force Weng Buping to retreat! 

Weng Buping suddenly laughed strangely and said, "Boy, are these the only tricks you have? Be careful!" 

After Weng Buping finished speaking, his moves suddenly became more powerful, and the spear in his hand seemed to be coated with a layer of gold, sweeping, slashing, and stabbing, each move was brave and domineering! 

Seeing that Weng Buping was so powerful, Murong Qiu did not dare to block him head-on. Instead, he used his nimble footwork to dodge Weng Buping's attacks! 

Weng Buping had the upper hand at this time. He took advantage of Murong Qiu's dodging and instantly poked the tip of his spear towards Murong Qiu's feet. Murong Qiu turned around and slashed with his sword, trying to cut off the spear tip. Weng Buping reacted quickly, put away his spear and stabbed again! 

After Murong Qiu landed, he used the move "Like a Shadow", and the Flowing Light Sword circled around Weng Buping's spear like a spirit snake, heading straight for Weng Buping's empty space in the middle! 

Long spears are suitable for long-range attacks but not for close combat. The closer they are to the body, the more dangerous they are. Weng Buping had his own plans. He swung the spear lightly, and the two-meter-long spear shaft instantly retracted and turned back into a one-foot-and-a-half-long pipe. He quickly retreated several steps to avoid the sharp edge, and when Murong Qiu's moves were exhausted, he gently knocked away the sword's edge! 

Weng Buping kicked the ground with both feet, and began to spin around Murong Qiu like a spinning top. He held the pipe in his left hand, and made a claw shape with his right hand, attacking fiercely from both sides! 

Murong Qiu's heart trembled, and he made a prompt decision, using the best defensive move in the Phantom Sword Technique, "Shadow Self-Defense", to protect himself. Suddenly, his whole body was covered with layers of sword light, and there was a faint sword energy. Weng Buping's violent attack was ineffective! 

Violent attacks consume the most internal energy. Weng Buping was unable to defeat the opponent after a long battle. He was afraid that if he continued, his internal energy would be exhausted. He had no choice but to withdraw his attack. He jumped back and stood still! 

Murong Qiu stopped when he saw that he was ahead. He put away his sword but did not sheath it. He said loudly: "Senior, you are indeed a master of martial arts. You only used 50% of your strength and made me exhausted!" 

Weng Buping did not appreciate it and said bitterly: "Boy, stop flattering me! I have just warmed up my skills with weapons, and now I will try your fists and feet!" 

After saying that, Weng Buping put the pipe on his back, walked forward slowly, and attacked Murong Qiu's left and right ribs with his left palm and right claw at the same time! 

Since they were going to compete in fist and foot skills, Murong Qiu certainly couldn't show off his magic weapon. He sheathed his sword, hung it on his waist, and used both palms to block Weng Buping's attack! 

Xue Hongfei saw this and laughed, "This old guy is really taking advantage of his age! He knows that the Murong family is famous for swordsmanship, and Murong Qiu has the Liuguang Sword in his hand, but he actually wants to compete with fists and feet. He is not afraid of being ridiculed by his fellow martial artists!" 

Nangong Lie said: "My dear brother, what you said is wrong. In my opinion, Weng Buping is a good friend of Murong's ancestors. He knows Murong Qiu's strengths, so he specifically suggested a fist fight. You know, he was not at a disadvantage in the weapon fight just now!" 

Lingxuzi said: "The Murong family has been dominating Fujian and the coastal areas for a hundred years. Their family traditions are long-standing and diverse, but the heads of the Murong family in recent generations have all been docile and have never had disputes or fights with other sects in the martial arts world. Therefore, everyone only knows the Murong family's most famous phantom swordsmanship. In fact, the Murong family's unique thunder palm technique is also unique!" 

Nangong Lie nodded and said, "Master, what you said is very true. Although I am good at palm techniques, I can't gain much advantage when sparring with Murong He. It can only be said that they are evenly matched. This shows that the Murong family is very good at martial arts and covers a wide range of areas!" 

As they talked, the situation on the field became increasingly tense. Murong Qiu's Thunder Palm technique was indeed quite good. He knew that he was inferior to Weng Buping in terms of internal strength, so he relied on quick changes of moves and clever routines. He did not fight Weng Buping head-on with internal strength, but moved around. Relying on his footwork, Murong Qiu managed to fight Weng Buping to a draw! 

Weng Buping knew Murong Qiu's intention, but he couldn't find a good countermeasure, because Murong Qiu's footwork was erratic, which was better than his. Weng Buping could only wait patiently for the opportunity! 

Suddenly, Weng Buping saw that Murong Qiu's steps seemed to be frivolous when he retreated, so he quickly stepped forward and drew a circle with both palms. The left palm was slow and heavy, while the right palm was swift and fierce! 

At this time, Murong Qiu had been forced to a corner of the ring. Weng Buping stood in front of him, blocking the left and right exits with his palms. Murong Qiu had no way to escape. In a hurry, Murong Qiu had to fly into the air on the spot, hoping to avoid this danger with his Qinggong skills! 

Weng Buping had finally found an opportunity, so how could he let it go easily? He changed his palm into a claw and quickly grabbed Murong Qiu's ankle. With this move, Weng Buping saw that Murong Qiu couldn't dodge in the air, so he attacked his ankle where he was least prepared. It was really ruthless and fierce! 

In a flash, Murong Qiu reacted very quickly. He flipped in mid-air, his whole body turned upside down, with his palms in front, and attacked Weng Buping's crown with a "Heavenly Thunder"! 

Weng Buping had not expected Murong Qiu to turn defense into offense, but the fight was just what he wanted, so he sank his Dantian, and with both palms, he forcibly blocked Murong Qiu's move! 

When the two palms met, a thunderous sound suddenly exploded in the entire training field, shocking many martial artists and making them scream. A strong gust of wind swept across the ring, and the flagpoles at the four corners of the ring were broken for no reason! 

Lingxuzi looked stern, took a deep breath and said: "What a powerful palm technique!" 

Xue Hongfei was also shocked by this chapter. He thought to himself, "This chapter is so fierce. Can I handle it calmly?" 

Among all the people present, only Nangong Lie was the most proficient in palm techniques, and he was the only one who could see it most clearly. However, Nangong Lie did not say anything, but quietly observed the two people who were still fighting each other! 

After a thunderous roar, the field suddenly fell into silence. The two men were still holding their palms, expressionless, as if frozen. Everyone held their breath, waiting for the final result. A few people didn't even have time to close their mouths! 

Time passed by bit by bit, but the two of them did not move. Nangong Lie suddenly said: "Murong Qiu won!" 

As expected by Nangong Lie, Weng Buping withdrew his palm and retreated, saying: "Young people are to be feared!" 

Then he looked up to the sky and sighed: "Murong Shiyuan, I didn't expect that I lost to you forty years ago, and forty years later, I would lose to your descendants! Haha! The world is no longer my world!" 

Before he finished speaking, Weng Buping had already disappeared in the crowd, leaving only the laughter that could not be told whether it was regretful or self-mocking still echoing in the field! 

After this great battle, Murong Qiu looked even more outstanding. He stood quietly on the ring, his originally narrowed eyes had long been closed, as if he was recalling the battle just now. The sunlight shone on his plain robe, making his image seem even taller! 

Everyone's eyes were focused on the arena. They seemed to have already determined that Murong Qiu was the winner of this martial arts competition and were just waiting for the host to announce it! 

The afternoon sun was still blazing, and most of the people off the field were already drenched in sweat. Nangong Lie saw that no one had come up to challenge him, so he made a gesture to Butler Lu. Butler Lu understood and announced, "The competition was wonderful, but the weather was too hot. For the sake of everyone's health, we'll take a break. The villa has prepared some things to cool you down, as well as fruits, vegetables and drinking water. Please use them as you please!" 

The crowd was already hungry and thirsty, and when they heard the news, they cheered loudly. Some ran under the big trees for shade, while others took some water and soaked themselves! 

Zhu San was still thinking about the fight between the two of them, but he saw Shen Yuqing coming down from the attic alone and heading to the back mountain. He hurriedly made an excuse to go to the toilet and followed Shen Yuqing! 

Shen Yuqing was extremely troubled. Shen Yao and Xue'er's reactions at noon clearly told her: "Both mother and daughter have given themselves to Zhu San!" 

Thinking of how she behaved in front of Zhu San yesterday, Shen Yuqing was even more confused: "Why am I, who has always been resolute and courageous, so weak in front of Zhu San? Originally, I asked Zhu San to disguise himself as Lin Yue just to appease him and find an extra helper for my revenge. I didn't expect Zhu San's performance to far exceed my expectations, and even completely out of control! Zhu San has now legitimately become the owner of Ziyue Mountain Villa, and his ambitions seem to be more than just this. What should I do?" 

Shen Yuqing was lost in thought when someone behind her called out, "Miss Shen, you are here." 

Shen Yuqing turned around and saw that it was Mo Haoyu, so he replied: "Mr. Mo, do you want to talk to me about something?" 

Mo Haoyu took two steps forward and came to Shen Yuqing and said, "It's nothing. I just saw that Miss Shen was frowning and worried today. I was worried about Miss Shen, so I came here!" 

Shen Yuqing said: "Thank you for your concern, Mr. Mo. I have nothing on my mind. It's just that the weather is too hot, so I came here to enjoy the cool breeze!" 

Mo Haoyu paused and continued, "Miss Shen, do you have any opinions on the two competitions today?" 

Shen Yuqing said: "Nothing, Master Murong is an outstanding martial artist, and he has defeated two masters in a row, so there should be no one to challenge him!" 

Mo Haoyu frowned and said, "Oh? Miss Shen thinks highly of Murong Qiu? Then I would like to learn a few moves from him, but..." 

Shen Yuqing said: "Mr. Mo, if you have anything to say, please speak clearly, no need to be hesitant." 

Mo Haoyu said: "If I go on stage, please rest assured, Miss Shen, I am definitely not going there to find a husband!" 

Shen Yuqing knew what Mo Haoyu meant, but she deliberately said, "You came here to find a husband, so why do you care about what others think?" 

Mo Haoyu asked anxiously: "Miss Shen, don't you understand my feelings?" 

Shen Yuqing turned around and remained silent! 

Mo Haoyu continued to speak, and said with great emotion: "Since I first saw you at the martial arts conference, I have deeply loved you, and I secretly vowed in my heart that I would marry you! Heaven and earth can bear witness to my feelings, but why do you always treat me so coldly and avoid me?" 

Shen Yuqing was in a state of confusion at this moment. She didn't know how to respond to Mo Haoyu, so she could only say: "I told you long ago that you and I are not the same kind of people. You are the son of the Sword Saint, you have been dressed in fine clothes since childhood, and you have lived a peaceful life. I have been lonely since childhood, and I have a blood feud with my family. There will be no future between us!" 

Mo Haoyu suddenly put his hands on Shen Yuqing's shoulders, forcibly turned her body over, and then said: "I don't care about your identity or background, I only care about you now, and I am willing to face difficulties with you and take revenge together! Yu'er!" 

After Mo Haoyu finished speaking, he hugged Shen Yuqing and kissed her! 

"Pa!" A clear and loud sound calmed Mo Haoyu down. He looked at Shen Yuqing in disbelief. Obviously, this slap was given to him by Shen Yuqing! 

Shen Yuqing had returned to her cold and aloof demeanor without anyone noticing. She had no expression on her face and said coldly, "Mr. Mo! Please respect yourself! This is all we have to say! Take care of yourself!" 

Mo Haoyu wanted to say something, but Zhu San came out and smiled in surprise, "Hey! Miss Shen and Mr. Mo are both here! I thought I was the only one who liked this quiet lake! By the way, did I disturb you?" 

Obviously, Zhu San saw all of this clearly. He was happy and surprised, so he came out at the right time! 

Seeing Zhu San had arrived, Mo Haoyu could only say awkwardly: "Nothing! I just happened to pass by. I have something else to do, so I'll leave first!" 

Shen Yuqing didn't expect Zhu San to follow closely. Although she hated Zhu San, his appearance at this time just solved her embarrassment. She looked at Zhu San's smiling face, and a complex emotion quietly sprouted in her heart! 

Zhu San watched Mo Haoyu leave and said calmly, "The martial arts competition will continue soon, let's go back!" 

After Zhu San finished speaking, he turned around and left without waiting for Shen Yuqing's response! 

Shen Yuqing followed behind him, with more fantasies in his mind!