The three glanced at each other, forced to stop, their faces instantly changing; they hadn't expected Li Muzhan’s seemingly playful movements to possess such terrifying power. This was beyond their wildest imagination; they had never witnessed a sword art capable of injuring someone invisibly.

Cheng Yanhua sighed, “It seems it truly is Sword Intent. I never imagined…” “Sword Intent?” Cheng Suzhen asked in surprise, “Is it truly Sword Intent?” “It’s close, within ten percent,” Cheng Yanhua said slowly.

“Even if it’s not genuine Sword Intent, it possesses its embryonic form. Little girl, this young man is incredible!” Cheng Suzhen murmured, “If it really is Sword Intent, then it’s truly astonishing!” The formation of Sword Intent is profoundly mysterious, said to be a martial arts tier that manifests naturally when one’s comprehension of swordsmanship reaches a certain level, overwhelming opponents through sheer presence, transcending mere sword techniques.

“Daoling is also quite formidable,” Cheng Yanhua praised. Cheng Suzhen nodded; if it were her facing Daoling, she wouldn't last a few moves.

Seeing Senior Brother Mei, though flustered, hold out for so long was genuinely difficult; she could only admit inferiority. “Ancestor Cheng, who will win?” Liu Biyun asked anxiously.

Cheng Yanhua sighed and shook his head, “Although Daoling’s cultivation runs deep, he doesn't seem to have much of a chance. Under a master of Sword Intent, it’s hard to fare well.” “What a pity for Senior Brother Mei,” Cheng Suzhen shook her head.

“I heard he practiced martial arts at Xixin Cliff with extreme diligence, forgetting to eat and sleep.” “Indeed…” Cheng Yanhua sighed and shook his head. “This world is like this; there is no fairness or unfairness.

Training diligently in martial arts doesn't guarantee supremacy in the world.” “I wonder how this young man practiced his swordsmanship,” Cheng Suzhen sighed. Cheng Yanhua replied, “People like this are favored by heaven; it’s beyond human effort.

His comprehension of swordsmanship far surpasses ordinary people; he can’t be compared.” Cheng Suzhen shook her head. “We always said the disciples in our sect were geniuses, but now we see how narrow-minded we've been!” Cheng Yanhua chuckled, “We can't condemn everyone with one stroke.

Someone like him is rare in a century, perhaps once in a millennium; others cannot compare.” Liu Biyun seemed slightly dissatisfied and whispered, “Ancestor Cheng, Master, actually, Elder Brother practices very hard; he’s not like he appears on the surface.” “Oh?” Cheng Suzhen smiled sweetly, “You know this, little girl?” Liu Biyun explained, “Elder Brother usually seems very leisurely, but when he practices martial arts, he goes mad. He can train for days and nights without rest.” “Nonsense,” Cheng Suzhen laughed.

“Say something reliable!” “It’s true!” Liu Biyun rushed to say, “Master, I personally witnessed Elder Brother Li training so frantically... Others simply cannot achieve that!” “Days and nights…” Cheng Yanhua smiled, nodding slowly, “It seems his talent is indeed extraordinary; not everyone can do that.” Liu Biyun nodded forcefully, “Yes, Elder Brother Li is different from ordinary people.” Cheng Yanhua stated, “No wonder he could achieve Sword Intent!” With a dull thud, Li Muzhan’s blade struck Mei Daoling’s back, sending Mei Daoling flying back two zhang, landing gracefully but stumbling two steps backward.

Li Muzhan sheathed his sword, cupped his hands, and smiled gently, “Senior Mei, I yield!” Mei Daoling’s face darkened, watching him thoughtfully. Li Muzhan smiled, “Thank you, Senior Mei, for holding back!” Cheng Suzhen chided playfully, “This child, he’s already won and still speaks like that!” Because those words carried a strong hint of sarcasm that grated on the ears.

Mei Daoling said coldly, “I did not wish to kill you!” Li Muzhan laughed, “Thank you, Senior Mei, for sparing me… I didn't wish to kill Senior Mei either!” Mei Daoling’s eyes narrowed, seeming to probe the depths of his gaze. Li Muzhan smiled, his mouth moving slightly, but no sound emerged.

Mei Daoling’s expression immediately changed drastically; his eyes became fiercely sharp as a sword, his body instantly tensing, as if every hair stood on end. Li Muzhan, however, ignored him and turned to look at Elder Jin, “Senior Jin, what is your judgment?” “Li Guanhai wins,” Elder Jin stated gravely, then snorted at Mei Daoling.

“Daoling, a loss is a loss; do not bring shame upon our Longshan Sect!” “…Yes,” Mei Daoling took a deep breath and slowly nodded, but the killing intent could not be suppressed; it surged as if he were radiating flames. Li Muzhan acted as if he noticed nothing and smiled, “Senior Cheng, shall we go?” Cheng Suzhen smiled at Cheng Yanhua, “Martial Uncle, you must come over and sit with me this time!” “Very well, so you stop nagging me,” Cheng Yanhua laughed.

Cheng Suzhen, bringing Li Muzhan and Liu Biyun, left the training ground with Cheng Yanhua and soon returned to the large residence, settling down in the main hall. Cheng Suzhen sat on the low couch and asked with a smile, “Guanhai, what did you say to Senior Brother Mei that angered him so much?” Li Muzhan chuckled, “I mentioned a name.” “What name?” Cheng Suzhen sat up straighter, looking at him with curiosity.

Cheng Yanhua paused his tea cup, also watching him with a smile, while Liu Biyun fixed her bright eyes on him. Li Muzhan glanced at the three women and said with a smile, “I mentioned the name of the woman he killed.” “You…” Cheng Suzhen pointed at him, helpless.

“You were just asking for trouble. Anyone would be furious hearing that; you truly poked his sensitive spot!” Li Muzhan responded, “I wanted to see what exactly he did, if he was guilty.

Now it seems he did indeed commit a wrongful act back then!” Cheng Suzhen advised, “Old matters are past; it’s better to forget them.” Li Muzhan smiled and remained silent. Cheng Suzhen saw she couldn't persuade him, “...Guanhai, you must be careful!” Li Muzhan laughed, “Does he really intend to kill me?” “Senior Brother Mei is capable of it!” Cheng Suzhen nodded seriously.

“Senior Brother Mei is very bold; he’s capable of anything!” Li Muzhan laughed, “Good, I will be careful.” Cheng Yanhua smiled gently, “Guanhai, are you going to challenge anyone else?” Li Muzhan shook his head, “Senior Cheng, I plan to return.” “Hmm?” Cheng Yanhua chuckled, “Why not continue the challenges? You could even try challenging our girl Cheng!” “Martial Uncle!” Cheng Suzhen quickly chided coyly.

Li Muzhan smiled, “I wouldn't dare! I have matters pending and cannot delay any longer, otherwise I truly would like to experience more of the Longshan Sect’s martial arts.” Cheng Yanhua said, “Guanhai, to be honest, with your swordsmanship, even the disciples of the third generation probably have no match for you; only our generation has hope.” Li Muzhan demurred, “Senior Cheng overpraises me.” Cheng Yanhua laughed, “Daoling is already the best among the third-generation disciples.

Having defeated him, the rest of the third generation must concede!” “Isn't that right, girl?” Cheng Suzhen glanced at Li Muzhan and agreed, “Martial Uncle is entirely correct. Guanhai, I underestimated you too!” Li Muzhan shook his head and sighed, “It’s a pity I cannot delay any longer.

When I return next time, I will continue the challenges!” He felt the timing was right; defeating the entire Longshan Sect would be excessive. He had achieved his goal—discovering the location of the Thirty-Six Arts Manuals and provoking Mei Daoling.

It was a complete success. Staying longer would invite trouble, so leaving early was wise.

“Yes, that’s best,” Cheng Suzhen nodded. “Leaving at this juncture means you won't be looked down upon, but you also won't attract too much attention!” “Little girl, you have many clever thoughts!” Cheng Yanhua laughed.

“Guanhai, be careful.” “Then I shall take my leave,” Li Muzhan said, cupping his hands and rising. Cheng Suzhen quickly exclaimed, “Leaving already?!” Li Muzhan nodded, “Better to leave early than late, lest I lose face…” “Biyun, practice diligently.

I’ll be taking my leave!” “Elder Brother…” Liu Biyun was at a loss; she hadn't expected Li Muzhan to leave so soon. There were so many things left undone, so many words unsaid!

Li Muzhan smiled, “Biyun, I will come back again at the end of the year.” Liu Biyun looked wistful and saddened, staring intently at him without blinking. Li Muzhan smiled at her, cupped his hands toward Cheng Suzhen and Cheng Yanhua, then turned and walked away.

Liu Biyun quickly chased after him, calling out loudly, “Elder Brother, you haven’t taken your banknotes yet!” Li Muzhan waved a hand without turning back, “Keep them for me!” Liu Biyun stared blankly in the direction he vanished, feeling as if her heart had left with him, leaving an empty ache, making her want to cry. “Little girl, he will return soon,” Cheng Suzhen came over, patted her shoulder, and laughed.

“A man like him can’t stay by your side all day; you need to get used to that fact.” “Master…” Liu Biyun’s nose stung, and tears welled up. Cheng Suzhen quickly said, “Enough, Ancestor Cheng is right here; don’t let him laugh at you!” Liu Biyun desperately suppressed the tears, looked up, and asked, “Master, you said Elder Brother might be in danger, didn’t you?” “Yes, Senior Brother Mei might ambush him,” Cheng Suzhen nodded.

Liu Biyun’s face immediately changed, “Then why didn’t you warn Elder Brother?” “Who said I didn’t tell him?” Cheng Suzhen said irritably. “You’ve lost your wits!

He already knows. Don't worry!” “I’m afraid…” Liu Biyun showed a worried expression.

“What are you afraid of!” Cheng Suzhen huffed. “Senior Brother Mei hasn’t revealed his killing move, and your sweetheart hasn't either.

He might not be afraid of Senior Brother Mei!” “Master, maybe we should go take a look,” Liu Biyun pleaded, shaking Cheng Suzhen’s arm. Cheng Suzhen turned to look at Cheng Yanhua.

Cheng Yanhua waved his hand, “Biyun, girl, it’s best we pretend not to know about this; we cannot go.” “Why?” Cheng Suzhen asked. Cheng Yanhua shook his head, “Girl, you are sharp enough; do I need to spell it out?” Cheng Suzhen pondered for a moment, then told Liu Biyun, “It won't help even if we go.

If Senior Brother Mei is determined to kill Guanhai, he will find another opportunity.” “Isn't Senior Martial Uncle Mei at Xixin Cliff?” Liu Biyun quickly asked. Cheng Suzhen looked at Cheng Yanhua, “He’s been allowed out this time, right?” Cheng Yanhua nodded, “Yes, he can leave Xixin Cliff now!” “Then what should we do?” Liu Biyun frowned, worry etched on her face.

Cheng Suzhen said, “Alright, little girl, you are letting concern cloud your judgment. He isn't so easily killed; Senior Brother Mei won't be able to kill him.” “Didn't Senior Martial Uncle Mei master the secret arts of the Wansheng Sect!” Liu Biyun still frowned deeply.

Cheng Suzhen smiled, “Guanhai’s swordsmanship is superb; there’s no need to worry.” Liu Biyun shook her head. She wasn't ignorant of Li Muzhan’s peerless swordsmanship, unmatched in the world, but she couldn't help but worry, feeling agitated and restless.

Cheng Suzhen waved her hand, “Enough, find something to do yourself and stop seeking trouble. You are letting concern lead you astray right now!” Cheng Yanhua said, “Biyun, you have taken the Marrow Cleansing Pill; do not waste that inherent talent.

Don’t waste time; practice diligently!” “…Yes, Ancestor!” Liu Biyun immediately became solemn. Remembering Li Muzhan’s hopes, she quickly said, “Master, I’ll go to the Shenji Pavilion.” “Go, go,” Cheng Suzhen waved her off.

Li Muzhan gracefully descended from Longshan Sect. Instead of returning to Fengyue City, he headed directly south for a hundred li before stopping before a stretch of woods.

The noon sunlight shone warmly upon him, as if the sun itself contained power—and for one who had practiced the Hua Hong Sutra, sunlight indeed held strength. He suddenly halted and said calmly, “Friends in the woods, it’s time to come out!” There was no movement from the trees.

Li Muzhan shook his head, “If you won't come out, I won't enter. Let’s see who can outlast whom!” “Hmph!” A cold snort suddenly sounded from the woods.

Then came the sound of footsteps. A dozen middle-aged men in gray shirts emerged slowly from the trees, stopping three zhang from Li Muzhan, staring at him coldly.

Li Muzhan sized them up, frowned, and shook his head, “You are not from the Longshan Sect?” “Are you Qingmei Li Guanhai?” The leader was an elder with graying hair and beard, a stern face, and eyes that shone brightly, piercingly clear. Li Muzhan nodded, “I am Li Guanhai.” “Good, move out!” The elder waved his hand and commanded lightly.

The dozen gray-shirted men immediately surged forward, surrounding Li Muzhan. They drew long sabers and began slashing, the flashing steel forming a sea of light.

A flash of sword light emerged from Li Muzhan’s waist—ding ding ding... a continuous series of clear chimes, like rain beating on banana leaves.

He stood steadily in the center, wielding his long sword to deflect all the saber flashes, as if forming an invisible shield. No matter how fiercely they hacked and slashed, their blades were blocked by the slender long sword, unable to penetrate his immediate vicinity.

The gray-clothed elder did not move, focusing his gaze on the center of the fight. Seeing Li Muzhan standing there effortlessly, his long sword forming a shimmering curtain of light to protect himself, his frost-white eyebrows knitted together.

He knew this Li Guanhai was powerful, his swordsmanship masterful, but he hadn't expected him to be this formidable—a dozen top-tier swordsmen couldn't break through! He took a deep breath, suddenly raising his left arm, pointing at Li Muzhan.

With a faint, almost inaudible whistle, a white light shot instantly toward Li Muzhan’s chest. Li Muzhan suddenly swayed sideways—Ah!

A scream of pain erupted as a gray-clothed middle-aged man attacking furiously behind him was sent flying, traveling a full two zhang before crashing heavily to the ground. The gray-clothed elder’s face changed, and he raised his left arm again, shooting a beam of white light toward Li Muzhan.

Li Muzhan shifted lightly again, like a small boat rocking on a lake, elegantly evading the white light. This time, no one was behind him; the white light flew over a hundred meters before landing.

Li Muzhan examined the white light, recognizing it as a small arrow. The gray-clothed elder had a small crossbow-like cylinder concealed in his sleeve.

Li Muzhan said grimly, “Just who are you people? What grievance do you have with me?” The gray-clothed elder lowered his left arm, frowning at Li Muzhan, and snorted, “Li, you might as well be a confused ghost on the road to the Yellow Springs!” Li Muzhan exclaimed, “Are you people from the Jing family?!” He activated his Heart-Reading Skill and instantly discerned their identity—they were retainers of the Jing family.

Li Muzhan immediately understood; this Jing family was Jing Sen’s clan. “So you are here for revenge!” Li Muzhan shook his head and sighed, “Is the outcome of a martial contest really that important?” “Hmph, since you know, there’s no harm in telling you!” the gray-clothed elder said gravely.

“What’s important isn’t the victory, but the Marrow Cleansing Pill!” Li Muzhan laughed, “So that’s it. Your Jing family’s ambition is too small; you can’t afford to lose!” “Since you have the Marrow Cleansing Pill, you must die!” The gray-clothed elder shook his head.

“Furthermore, you’ve wasted the Marrow Cleansing Pill—you deserve death!” Li Muzhan smiled and shook his head, “Since it’s come to this, let’s stop wasting words. Be careful, lest you blame me for being merciless!” Saying this, he stabbed out swiftly.

A dull sound followed, and a gray-clothed middle-aged man collapsed. Li Muzhan stabbed again immediately, bringing down another.

These two men seemed to have lost the desire to resist under his sword, making no move to defend themselves as Li Muzhan struck. They couldn't react in time, so the others immediately swung their long sabers to attack, aiming to overwhelm him first before anything else.

Li Muzhan, realizing they truly intended to kill him, held back no longer. A flash of sword light dispatched one man; in the time it took to blink, he had halved the dozen men.

The gray-clothed elder’s face grew grim. He suddenly waved his hand, “Stop fighting, let’s go!” Li Muzhan chuckled, his foot slipped slightly, and he instantly appeared before the gray-clothed elder, thrusting his sword.

The elder abruptly raised his left hand. With a chi, a white light instantly appeared before Li Muzhan.

Li Muzhan parried horizontally with his sword—clink... a small arrow struck the blade.

As the sword trembled, a fluid beam of sword light shot out, the tip already piercing the elder’s throat. Chi!

Another soft whistle—a streak of sword light instantly appeared behind Li Muzhan. Li Muzhan pulled his sword back to block—clink—Li Muzhan slid back over ten steps before stopping, two parallel grooves clearly visible on the ground.

Li Muzhan slowly stabilized himself and smiled faintly, “Mei Daoling!” A masked man in gray stood silently opposite Li Muzhan, separated by three zhang. The attack just now had involved no movement from the masked man’s feet, suggesting he held the upper hand in that exchange.

The gray-masked man only exposed a pair of eyes, yet Li Muzhan instantly recognized Mei Daoling. Mei Daoling let out a cold sneer, gloomy as ice, making one’s hair stand on end and feel profoundly uneasy.

Li Muzhan sensed he was like a different person. Chi!

A flash of sword light descended like lightning, the tip instantly before Li Muzhan, its speed no less than his own. Li Muzhan shifted his step to narrowly avoid it.

He guessed this was a secret art from the Wansheng Sect; it seemed their swordsmanship was not to be underestimated. Mei Daoling sneered and thrust again, the sword light even faster.

Li Muzhan met speed with speed—ding ding ding clink... The sword sounds of the two merged into a single, continuous echo.

In the blink of an eye, they exchanged over a hundred thrusts. Li Muzhan continued fighting while saying, “Mei Daoling, is this the sword art you acquired?...

Did you kill the woman you loved for such a meager technique?” “Shut up!” Mei Daoling roared. Li Muzhan sighed, shaking his head, “There truly are such cruel people in this world, and they still roam freely—heaven must be blind!” Mei Daoling merely grunted, his body suddenly contracting as if he had lost weight.

The sword light vanished, becoming faint and illusory, like a shadow. Li Muzhan noticed his sword was now faster, surpassing his own speed.

If this continued, he would soon be struck. It must be some kind of secret technique, so he slid his feet back three zhang to retreat.

“Trying to run!” Mei Daoling sneered, sword light flashing as he instantly closed the distance to Li Muzhan. But Li Muzhan slipped his foot again, suddenly sweeping aside, again dodging the sword light.

Then, Mei Daoling followed with one strike after another, each faster than the last, yet always falling just short of hitting Li Muzhan.