Li Wei had come a long way since he first began his journey in the village. He had become 30 years old this year. His progress was evident in his martial arts panel:
Li Family Body Forging Technique: [Complete]
Chen Family Body Forging Technique: [Complete]
Iron Body Technique: [Complete]
Iron Sand Palm: [Complete]
100 Poison Immunity: [Complete]
Li's Swordsmanship: [300%]
Internal Organ Training Manual: [Complete]
Art of Turtle Breathing: [3/5 stars]
Bull Demon Physique Refining Technique: [2/5]
Internal Organ Training Manual Mayor Zhao had delivered this manual years ago after exchanging the merit points for him.
Bull Demon Physique Refining Technique He had gotten this from treasures of Zhao Wei.
After years of dedication, Li Wei had perfected his Poison Immunity, making his body resilient against nearly any toxin. He had completed 60% of his journey toward mastering the 2nd-rate martial arts, but he knew that the final 40% would be just as challenging as the first 80%. The Bull Demon Physique Refining Technique, which he had discovered in Zhao Wei's storage, was among the techniques he hoped would help him immensely. However, with only 2 out of 5 stars, he had a long way to go before fully mastering it.
Despite the rigors of his training, Li Wei found satisfaction in his life in the village. His household had grown since he brought Lan Fen, a young girl, 15, with whom he had an new connection from his days in Longjiagong, back to the village. He had also brought her in to help manage the household chores, take care of the cattle, and assist with daily tasks. Lan Fen's presence not only provided practical support but also fulfilled Li Wei's personal desires.
The village itself was thriving. The number of households had increased from 200 to 210, and the lemon trees they had just planted on the cleared 2km by 2km plot were growing well. Although the trees had not yet begun to bear fruit, the villagers were hopeful for the income they would eventually provide. The community had rallied together to ensure the young plants received the care they needed, eagerly anticipating the day they could harvest the lemons.
There was another matter on Li Wei's mind—his maternal grandfather had been pressing for the fulfillment of a promise made long ago regarding his marriage. The old man had found someone suitable for Li Wei: the daughter of the Chen family, who was his grandfather's cousin's granddaughter. She was 15 years old, beautiful, and deemed a perfect match for a 2nd-rate warrior like himself.
Li Wei reflected on this development, knowing that it was a significant step not just for him but for his family's legacy as well. He felt a mix of responsibility and anticipation as he agreed to his grandfather's wishes, ready to see how this new chapter in his life would unfold alongside the growth of the village.
After months of preparation, the day of Li Wei's marriage finally arrived. It was a quiet yet joyous occasion, as the villagers who had come to admire and respect him gathered to celebrate his union with the daughter of the Chen family. The bride, just 15 years old, was beautiful, with graceful features and a demeanor that made her well-suited for a man of Li Wei's status as a 2nd-rate martial artist. The ceremony was simple, yet the significance wasn't lost on anyone in attendance. It was a union between two powerful families, one that would strengthen Li Wei's legacy.
Later that night, as the stars glittered in the clear sky, Li Wei and his new bride retired to their chamber. She stood nervously by the bed, her hands clasped in front of her as she cast shy glances in Li Wei's direction. He approached her gently, placing a hand on her shoulder and offering a small smile to put her at ease.
In the days that followed, Li Wei's new wife settled into her role. She was obedient and diligent, quietly helping around the household and adjusting to her new life alongside Lan Fen and Zhao Mei. The house, now busier than before, ran smoothly with the help of the women, and Li Wei found himself content with the arrangement.
Meanwhile, the road project he had proposed was well underway. The villagers, though working slowly and methodically, were making steady progress. One morning, while supervising the construction, Li Wei stopped to chat with some of the workers.
Later that afternoon, Li Wei decided to visit his old friends in a neighboring town. As he approached the gates, he was greeted by familiar faces, including Zhao Jun had broken through to the 2nd-rate martial arts two years prior.
"Li Wei! You've been away too long," Zhao Jun said with a wide grin as he clasped Li Wei's forearm in greeting. "I've been hearing about all the changes in your village. Seems like you're doing well."
Li Wei returned the grin. "The village is growing, but I've been hearing things about you too, Zhao Jun. Breaking through to the 2nd rate—that's no small feat."
Zhao Jun laughed, rubbing the back of his neck modestly. "I did what I could. But I'm still not sure I can keep up with you."
"Well, why don't we find out?" Li Wei suggested with a gleam in his eye.
Zhao Jun didn't hesitate. "Let's see what you've got."
They headed to a nearby clearing, where a small crowd of curious onlookers gathered. The sparring match began with controlled strikes, each testing the other's reflexes. Zhao Jun's movements were sharp, and his confidence was evident, but it soon became clear that Li Wei had the upper hand. His strikes were precise and powerful, pushing Zhao Jun back at every turn. Within minutes, Li Wei disarmed his friend with a final strike, knocking Zhao Jun to the ground.
Breathing heavily, Zhao Jun shook his head with a laugh. "You haven't lost your touch, Li Wei. I've still got a lot of catching up to do."
Li Wei offered him a hand to help him up. "You've improved a lot, but I've been keeping myself busy."
As they cooled down, they talked about old times, reminiscing about their training days. Li Wei learned that Li Bo had retired from martial arts, choosing to focus on building houses in the village, and shortly after, Li Yun had retired as well. The two were now settling into quieter lives, contributing to the ongoing construction efforts.
After parting ways with Zhao Jun, Li Wei decided to visit Uncle Zhao and some of his subordinates from the town guard. As he walked through the town, he noticed how much it had grown. The population had reached 150,000 people, a significant increase in just ten years. The initial investment from Benefactor Zhang had transformed the town, bringing in new businesses and opportunities.
Uncle Zhao greeted him warmly when they met. "Li Wei! It's good to see you, boy. This town has changed so much since you were here last."
Li Wei looked around, taking in the bustling streets. "It's hard to believe how quickly it's grown. All thanks to Benefactor Zhang, I suppose."
Uncle Zhao nodded. "Yes, his investment really turned things around. We've even got a new martial arts dojo in town, though I hear it's ridiculously expensive for most people."
Li Wei raised an eyebrow. "Ridiculously expensive, you say?"
Uncle Zhao chuckled. "Only the wealthiest can't afford to train there for long time. It's a shame, but that's the way of things now."
"What is it called?" Li Wei asked.
"Azure Dragon pavilion" Zhao Jun
"I will check it out sometime later." Li Wei said.