"Return to the Qingshan Sect. Immediately report any findings," Xuanwu Patriarch commanded, delivering a forceful slap to Yu Wujie's chest, eliciting a pained grimace. A frozen cicada entered his mouth, He then was thrown out of the Xuanwu sect.
"Master, is it prudent to dispatch Wuchen alone?" Yaoling Er inquired with concern, observing Xuanwu Patriarch's contemplative frown.
"It's acceptable," Xuanwu Patriarch dismissed her concern with a wave of his hand.
"Aren't you concerned Wuchen might encounter peril?" Yaoling Er persisted, directing her gaze at Xuanwu Patriarch.
"Don't worry," a man in a long robe interjected, approaching them, "I believe this supposed master in Pingjiang City is a ruse orchestrated by the Qingshan Sect. Entrusting Wuchen to handle it is the optimal solution."
"But..." Yaoling Er's apprehension lingered as she glanced at Xuanwu Patriarch.
"Fear not," Xuanwu Patriarch assured her, "Wuchen possesses my Shaking Heaven Stone. Even in unforeseen circumstances, Shaking Heaven Stone can safeguard him. We simply await Wuchen's intelligence calmly within the sect."
Upon hearing this, Yaoling Er visibly relaxed. Shaking Heaven Stone, a rare treasure in Xuanwu Patriarch's possession, indeed rendered her concerns baseless.
In a mere half-day, Jing Wuchen arrived in Pingjiang City. Despite its proximity to the sect, the city housed a considerable population of ordinary citizens, leading to the existence of numerous martial arts schools. This posed no difficulty for Jing Wuchen, who mercilessly slaughtered his way through each martial arts school he encountered.
After annihilating dozens of individuals in one such school, he coldly addressed the school's master, "Tell me, what ties do you have with Qingshan Sect?"
"I truly have no connection with Qingshan Sect, sir. Spare me, I beg you..."
Before he could complete his plea, a cold gleam swiftly severed his words, his life ending abruptly.
"How dull!" A peculiar face expressed impatience. The tongue licked the blood-stained dagger as he proceeded to the next martial arts school.
Following the map of Pingjiang City, Jing Wuchen massacred one martial arts school after another, sparing none...
"Disciple, I've bought some treats for you. You can enjoy them with the medicine." Yifeng returned, his face radiating warmth, holding bags of various sizes, meticulously caring for his disciple.
"Thank you, Master, for your kind consideration." Zhong Qing expressed gratitude, eyes misty. Yifeng was the only one, apart from his parents, who had genuinely treated him well throughout his memory. He silently cherished this kindness.
"Ouch." As Yifeng entered, he stumbled on the steps, nearly falling.
"Master, are you alright?" Zhong Qing hurried over, supporting Yifeng.
"Damn this design." Yifeng cursed the steps, not the first time they had tripped him. The design was inconvenient. One step was too short, akin to delicate, small strides. Taking two steps at a time made it too wide and challenging!
"Master, let me fix these steps tomorrow." Zhong Qing proposed, considering Yifeng's convenience. He was eager to do things for Yifeng.
"Good lad." Yifeng patted his head, "You've just recovered from illness. Let's discuss these things once you're completely well. Come, let's go inside and take the medicine first."
The master and disciple proceeded to the inner courtyard. Watching Zhong Qing finish his medicine, Yifeng finally relaxed, basking in the warm sun. His recent days had been marked by contentment.
Zhong Qing recuperated.
Some money came their way.
Yet, he felt a tad bored. It seemed that he had also turned into a lazy fish!
"Doggie, come here." Yifeng beckoned to Aiqiang. The dog wagged its tail and ran over, lying obediently at Yifeng's feet. Yifeng affectionately rubbed it.
"Good boy, come over." Yifeng gestured, and the dog wagged its tail, lying obediently at Yifeng's feet, letting Yifeng scratch it.
"Master, we've got to pick up some groceries. Will you accompany me to the store?" Zhong Qing looked at Yifeng, who seemed in high spirits.
"Alright." Yifeng got up, "Let's go. After buying groceries, I'll prepare some delicious food for you."
On the street, a gentle breeze rustled the leaves. A figure landed in front of the martial arts school, raising a bony hand, scrutinizing the map. Squinting, he muttered, "The last few martial arts schools are getting smaller and smaller. Truly disappointing."
Expressing his disdain, he licked his tongue and proceeded towards the martial arts school ahead...