The crowd stirred, rippling outwards. With three voices shouting and leading by example, they charged headlong, the greed for the Dragon Slaying Manual surging once more among the people.

"Charge! Seize the Dragon Slaying Manual!" Two burly fellows rushed out, brandishing long sabers.

"Even a lion fears a wolf pack. Let's rush him together!

No matter how strong Li Wudi is, he's still just one man. Go!" Two more stout men surged from the throng.

The crowd hesitated momentarily. Seven burly men had already surrounded Li Wudi, waving their long sabers, staring intently at him.

Li Wudi cast a casual glance over the seven, a cold smile playing on his lips as he stepped forward. The encirclement formed by the seven followed his movements, matching his pace precisely.

Several more people emerged from the crowd. Fortune favors the bold; Li Wudi might be strong, but if they all attacked at once, they could tire him to death.

"Such meager courage, yet you dare block my way!" Li Wudi scoffed. With a sudden, sharp roar—like a bolt of lightning splitting a clear sky—his body merged with his spear, transforming into a coiling dragon that pierced directly through the leading man.

"Bang!" The man was sent flying by the spear tip, tumbling in the air until he sailed over ten zhang before falling like a rag doll, stirring no more. This single display stunned the onlookers into immediate silence.

………… "Brilliant!" Li Muzhan applauded, his body swaying gently with the movement of the treetops, his azure robes fluttering, the white jade on his cap emitting a soft, warm luster. Kang Zufeng nodded in admiration.

"Li Wudi indeed lives up to his name!" Wen Yinyue said lightly, "Are these few men working together?" Li Muzhan smiled. "Senior Sister is sharp!" Wen Yinyue frowned and huffed softly.

"No matter how clever the plan, it’s useless if the strength falls short!" Kang Zufeng was startled, then exclaimed in surprise, "They are a faction? A trick to sway public opinion?" He suddenly understood, shaking his head with a bitter smile.

"Living to this age, and still being so slow on the uptake! If not for Gui Chouli's pointer, I never would have noticed!" Li Muzhan chuckled.

"Their methods are certainly not bad... But, swallowing an elephant is not so easy.

Old Master Li is an experienced man; he probably saw through it too!" As they spoke, Li Wudi let out a cold laugh. "Petty trickery!" He once again merged with his long spear.

The onlookers felt as if a dragon was swimming through the air, and in an instant, successive screams erupted. The seven burly men were successively impaled and flung away, landing dozens of zhang distant, groaning in agony.

Li Wudi planted his spear and looked on, his eyes darting over the crowd like lightning. No one dared meet his gaze.

Li Muzhan shook his head and smiled; these people truly were not worth mentioning. Li Wudi’s gaze returned to Li Muzhan.

Li Muzhan bowed with a smile, Wen Yinyue met his look coolly, acting as if she hadn't seen him, and Kang Zufeng also cupped his hands in a smile. "Since no one dares come forward, this old man will not stay to accompany you!" Li Wudi snorted coldly and slowly departed.

No one dared block him again; the seven burly men had served as a warning. The crowd buzzed with discussion, marveling endlessly at Li Wudi's spear technique, which lived up to his undefeated moniker—shaking the heavens and moving the ghosts, unstoppable by any.

Li Muzhan and Wen Yinyue drifted down from the tree, blending into the crowd below. Li Muzhan remained lost in thought, silent and pondering, and Wen Yinyue said nothing either.

Kang Zufeng spoke a few sentences, but seeing Li Muzhan's lack of interest, he said no more, cupping his hands in a smile. "Brother Li, I must leave Wancheng!" Li Muzhan looked up.

"Brother Kang is leaving? ...You don't care who claims the Dragon Slaying Manual?" Kang Zufeng shook his head and sighed.

"With Li Wudi here, who could possibly snatch it? I think all effort is in vain.

I have a matter to attend to and cannot delay further." Li Muzhan smiled. "Brother Kang knows when to advance and when to retreat; I admire that.

I, on the other hand, am merely passing the time and wish to watch the excitement a bit longer." Kang Zufeng cupped his hands and smiled. "Very well then.

Mountains don't move, but water flows; we walk the martial world, so there must be a time we meet again. Take care, Gui Chouli!" "Take care!" Li Muzhan returned the gesture.

Kang Zufeng turned and left, moving as if riding the wind, vanishing into the depths of the peach grove in a flash. Wen Yinyue remarked, "This man hides his depth well; he is certainly a character." Li Muzhan chuckled.

"People in the martial world—who doesn't have a killing side? It's not surprising...

Senior Sister, shall we go pay a visit to Li Wudi?" "Now?" Wen Yinyue asked. Li Muzhan said, "In my view, the Dragon Slaying Manual is truly with him.

We don't need to seize it; merely reviewing it would suffice." "His temper is foul; he won't agree," Wen Yinyue shook her head. Li Muzhan smiled.

"This elder is arrogant; we can try provoking him with words. Perhaps it will yield surprising results!" Wen Yinyue said no more.

The two followed the crowd slowly toward the city and soon entered, inquiring about Li Wudi's residence. Li Wudi’s manor was opulent and magnificent.

Stone lions flanking the gate looked ready to pounce, and the main door was lacquered black, brand new and gleaming. The brass door knockers were fashioned into lion heads, resembling a lion holding a ring in its mouth; pulling the ring was like snatching something from the lion's maw—quite intimidating.

Li Muzhan observed for a moment. These details were the work of master craftsmen, vividly lifelike and truly rare.

He smiled. "Senior Sister, it seems this Li Wudi is quite the wealthy man." "Yes, he is the richest man in the city, dealing in jade." Wen Yinyue nodded.

"Jade business," Li Muzhan mused with a smile. "That’s quite a profitable trade.

No wonder..." He stepped forward and knocked on the door. The smaller side door opened, and a sturdy man in brown steps out, his eyes bright as he looked over.

He cupped his hands and asked, "What business do you have, young master?" His tone was polite, yet guarded. Li Muzhan cupped his hands and smiled.

"A junior from a humble background, I greatly admire Senior Li's demeanor and have come to pay my respects." "May I ask where the young master hails from?" the sturdy man inquired. Li Muzhan drew a lustrous white jade pendant from his robes and handed it to the man, smiling.

"Please present this to Senior Li for his perusal." "Please wait a moment." The man accepted the jade pendant with both hands. He was knowledgeable enough to recognize the pendant's extraordinary nature immediately.

Not daring to be careless, his demeanor grew more respectful as he carried the jade inside, leaving the small door open. Soon, the main door creaked open, and Li Wudi stood behind it, cupping his hands and chuckling heartily.

"So, Cang Hai sent... a distinguished guest!

Your presence brings radiance to this humble abode. This old man begs your pardon for not greeting you sooner!" He was now dressed in fine silk, smiling benignly, completely contrary to the chilling majesty he displayed in the peach grove—as if he were an entirely different person.

Li Muzhan bowed slightly. "We apologize for the abrupt intrusion, Senior; the rudeness is ours!" "Please...!" Li Wudi turned and gestured invitingly.

Li Muzhan and Wen Yinyue stepped inside, walking alongside Li Wudi. They noticed a small girl in red standing behind him, delicate as a slender willow, seemingly unable to withstand a breeze.

She had a pale, melon-seed shaped face, conspicuously lacking color—a sign of insufficient vitality. Her eyes were exceptionally large, bright, and clear, with long lashes fluttering, making her look charmingly delicate.

"This is my little daughter, Li Xiaoshui," Li Wudi said, his expression softening with paternal affection. Li Muzhan nodded with a smile.

Wen Yinyue observed her deeply, and they entered the main hall together. Everyone was seated.

Li Wudi appeared calm and amiable. Li Xiaoshui presented the jade pendant to Li Muzhan, who accepted it and said with a smile, "I heard Senior Li has obtained the Dragon Slaying Manual.

Congratulations are in order." "I have yet to learn the names of the two young heroes and young lady... Li Wudi set down his teacup and smiled broadly.

Li Muzhan smiled. "This junior is Zhanran, and this is my Senior Sister, Wen Yinyue." He removed his cap, revealing his shiny scalp, and performed a formal salute with clasped hands.

"Senior Li's spear technique is miraculous and divine; this junior is deeply impressed!" Li Wudi waved his hand and chuckled. "A meager skill, unfit for high society.

It cannot compare to the Nine Engravings of Cang Hai from your esteemed sect. Young hero need not be so polite!...

Young hero, are you perhaps Zhanran, known as the Twin Sword Monk?" Li Muzhan nodded. "Indeed, worthy of the Cang Hai Sword Sect's excellence.

The Twin Sword Monk is renowned throughout the world... And Miss Wen's name is even more thunderous.

My little girl idolizes Miss Wen and insisted on meeting her." Li Wudi said with a smile. Wen Yinyue offered a faint smile.

"Senior overpraises me." Li Wudi laughed. "This old man never speaks empty pleasantries.

Cold Lotus Fairy is undoubtedly the top expert among the younger generation. To meet Miss Wen is truly my honor!" Li Xiaoshui stared intently at Wen Yinyue, her large eyes unblinking.

Li Muzhan cupped his hands. "I have also practiced some spear arts.

Hearing of Senior's fame, I am eager to learn one or two points; I hope the Senior will not begrudge offering guidance!" "Far from it, far from it. This old fellow's small abilities—how could they instruct the young hero!" Li Wudi quickly shook his head.

…………………… He then stated, "That is correct. The Dragon Slaying Manual is indeed in my possession." Li Muzhan smiled.

"The outside world speaks of the Dragon Slaying Manual in mythical terms. What does the Senior think of it?...

However, I am sincerely eager to learn spear techniques." He suddenly stood up, drawing his long sword. With a resonant whirr, silvery light flickered, as if one sword had become a thousand.

"Oh?" Li Wudi started, staring at Li Muzhan's Dragon Roar Sword. Li Muzhan held the Dragon Roar Sword; Wen Yinyue wore the Phoenix Cry Sword at her waist.

The two swords were originally a set, bestowed by Master Zhuzhao. Before setting out, she had instructed them both to carry these blades.

Li Wudi slowly looked up at Li Muzhan. "It truly is spear technique!" Being a master of the spear, his skill was ingrained in his very bones.

At a glance, he recognized that Li Muzhan was employing spear techniques with his sword, and had grasped the true essence of the art, which was quite exquisite. He immediately felt a craving for a match.

Few people practiced the spear in the martial world; it consumed too much focus, and without a battlefield, the long spear offered little advantage. Despite his godlike spear skill, he felt a sense of isolation, unable to find a true peer to spar with.

Li Muzhan smiled. "Senior, if this junior were fortunate enough to win just one exchange, how about allowing me to view the Dragon Slaying Manual once?" "The Dragon Slaying Manual?" Li Wudi frowned.

Li Muzhan nodded. "I am truly curious to see this Dragon Slaying Manual...

But I will absolutely not keep it; just a glimpse will suffice." Li Wudi pondered, then slowly said, "This old man also has a favor to ask." "Please state it, Senior," Li Muzhan extended his hand. Li Wudi said, "This Dragon Slaying Manual is a curse.

Since I obtained it, I cannot protect it, and it endangers my family. It would be better to present it to your sect!" Li Muzhan paused, glancing at Wen Yinyue; her bright eyes also narrowed.

"For this old man, it is a disaster, but it is different for your esteemed sect," Li Wudi stated. Li Muzhan pondered for a moment, glancing at Wen Yinyue, and said in a deep voice, "Senior Li, let's settle it this way: if you do not mind, please come and reside on our Cang Hai Mountain." Li Wudi's eyes lit up, and he laughed heartily.

"Good! Good!

Speaking with Young Hero Zhanran is truly exhilarating!" Li Muzhan's words struck exactly what was in his heart. He continued, "This old man is greedy, and I have another matter to request." Li Muzhan smiled.

"Please speak." "My little daughter's health is poor; she suffers from the Marrow Exhaustion Sickness. I have tried every method, but it cannot be cured.

I heard that Cang Hai Mountain possesses the Elixir of Creation, which can regrow flesh on white bones and bring the dead back to life..." Li Wudi said with difficulty. …………………… Li Muzhan beckoned with his hand.

"Miss Li, please come forward." Li Xiaoshui looked at Li Wudi, who nodded. Li Xiaoshui rose gracefully and approached Li Muzhan, her large, watery eyes fixed on him.

Li Muzhan saw at once that Li Xiaoshui rarely interacted with others and was naive about worldly affairs. He extended his hand.

"Let me examine the young lady's pulse." "You know medicine?" Li Xiaoshui asked, blinking her large eyes. Li Muzhan smiled.

"A little. Medicine and martial arts are inherently linked." Li Xiaoshui asked, "Left hand or right hand?" "The right hand," Li Muzhan replied.

Li Xiaoshui raised her wrist, pushed up her red sleeve, revealing a wrist as white as snow. Li Muzhan placed three fingers upon it.

His internal energy, like a single strand of silk, wound its way through her meridians and body. He slowly closed his eyes, using his qi as a probe, observing with meticulous detail.

His internal energy moved extremely slowly, allowing Li Muzhan to observe every minute detail, traversing the exterior and interior of her body. His expression gradually grew solemn.

Seeing this, Li Wudi's mood also became heavy. When Li Muzhan opened his eyes, Li Wudi impatiently asked, "Young Hero Zhanran, how is Shui'er?" Li Muzhan frowned and shook his head.

"Senior Sister, take a look." Wen Yinyue glanced at him, then placed her slender fingers on Li Xiaoshui's wrist. She closed her eyes and observed silently for a moment, then opened them, her expression unchanged, and lowered her hand.

"Miss Wen...?" Li Wudi grew even more anxious. Wen Yinyue glanced at Li Xiaoshui, who said, "Sister Wen, please speak freely.

I am alright." "Senior Li, the Elixir of Creation will likely be useless," Wen Yinyue stated plainly. Li Wudi's face altered dramatically, his body seeming to soften instantly.

His expression shifted through several emotions before he finally managed a bitter smile. "The Elixir of Creation is useless too?..." Wen Yinyue explained, "Miss Li's illness lies within the bone marrow; it is a congenital defect.

Although the Elixir of Creation can save lives, it cannot treat this condition." "Alas..." Li Wudi sighed bitterly. "Is it truly heaven's will to destroy my Li family?" "Father..." Li Xiaoshui went over and took Li Wudi's hand.

Li Muzhan watched them, silent and thoughtful. Wen Yinyue turned.

"Junior Brother, do you have any alternative solution?" Her words galvanized Li Wudi, who looked over eagerly. Li Muzhan looked up at the three of them, pondering.

"I do have a method, but I don't know if it will succeed." "What method?!" Li Wudi leaned forward to ask. Li Muzhan said, "The seventh layer of the Vajra Indestructible Divine Art I practice is a blood refinement technique, specifically refining the marrow." "The young hero actually possesses the Vajra Indestructible Divine Art!" Li Wudi exclaimed in admiration, then immediately frowned.

"But my little daughter likely cannot master it. This technique is incredibly difficult; perhaps only those below the Divine Rank of Hui Guo could ever master it." PS: The next update might be late; please do not wait.

(To be continued)