Under the sky

Chapter 28

Kunlun, autumn and August of 88
After Zhu Menshang finished talking about the past events in Taiping Town, he said calmly: "Chai Er was escorted to the sect. I didn't go to see him and just left Taiping Town."

Six people at the table were all dumbfounded after hearing the story.Li Jingfeng was also at the table. He saw that Shen Weichen still had a gentle smile on his face, but the smile seemed a little stiff. He also saw Zhu Menshang taking two longans from the dry fruit plate on the table, peeling them and eating them. While eating, he asked Said: "Why do you just listen to the story and not eat? Eat some." Then he pushed the dried fruit plate in front of Shen Yuqing.Shen Yuqing coughed lightly and said, "No, Doctor Zhu, please use it slowly."

"Are you okay?" Li Jingfeng asked, "You said you sucked... uh, sucked the worms from the patient's mouth?"

"I don't know. Although I haven't gotten sick in the past few months, who knows if something will happen in the future?" Zhu Menshang took a small handful of melon seeds in his hand and spit out the shells into the bowl while eating them. "After that, I will go I went to Jiangsu and stayed at the beach for two months. I wanted to go to Songshan to find the person Jiang Da told me about, but I met him halfway."

"People from the night list?" Shen Yuqing asked, "What do they look like?"

"I didn't see it." Zhu Menshang pondered for a while and said, "At that time, I was staying in a brothel for the night. Someone knocked on the door and asked me to go to Guangxi to treat a person. When I arrived in Guangxi, he asked me to go to Ba County and Fuju Hall. Healing a blind musical instrument. After going around in such a circle, I still don’t know what’s going on.” After saying that, he looked at Xie Gubai and asked, “Zhi Duoxing, what do you think?”

Xie Gubai smiled and said, "Xiaoba, let me test you."

Xiao Ba said: "This is too easy. If Arrow Like Time didn't live in Guangxi, or he was in Guangxi at that time, I wanted you to go and cure him. But later I learned that Qingcheng had received the news, and I was afraid that there would be trouble on the road, so I simply asked you to go to Qingcheng to treat him. He will meet. No one would suspect a blind luthier."

Shen Weichen suddenly said: "You just mentioned Jiang Da and his wife's old friend in Shandong...the one named Xiao."

"Xiao Qinggu, what happened?" Zhu Menshang asked, "Do you recognize him?"

"Brother, do you remember that you received a wedding invitation from Songshan last year?" When Shen Weichen said it, Shen Yuqing remembered it and said in surprise: "I forgot, that's the name. It's the leader of the Songshan sect." My new son-in-law."

Zhu Menshang also looked surprised.Although the Songshan Sect is affiliated with Shaolin, it dominates Shandong. Songshan's son-in-law is an incredible figure. Jiang Da and his wife actually know such a big figure.

Shen Weichen asked again: "Brother, do you think the three of them will be on the night list?"

Shen Yuqing shook his head and said: "Jiang Da and his wife are not even needles. If Mr. Xiao is a needle, it will be very difficult to become the son-in-law of the head of Songshan Mountain. This couple can shake Mr. Xiao out so easily. How can they do the night list?" So imprecise. Moreover, this couple said, "If you meet a person named Xiao Qinggu," the Songshan sect married their daughter last year and sent wedding invitations to all sects. After entering Shandong, who could not recognize this Mr. Xiao? This couple They are not from the martial arts world and don’t know about Mr. Xiao’s marriage, but they know the people in the night list, that’s for sure.”

After Shen Yuqing finished speaking, Shen Weichen showed a relieved expression and nodded in agreement.Zhu Menshang also said: "This is not surprising. If no one knows the people in the night list, where will they go to do business?" He had just eaten a handful of melon seeds and felt his mouth was salty. He drank a few more sips of tea and said: " That’s the story.” He stretched and said, “I’m going to take a break. Call me after dinner.” After saying that, he got up and headed to the cabin on the second floor.

Xie Gubai smiled and said: "I've heard the story, let's go." Shen Weichen waved, called the attendant over, and said: "Pack it up." After saying that, she looked at Zhu Menshang's bowl containing melon seed shells, and couldn't help but She then ordered: "It has been boiled in boiling water." After she finished her instructions, she turned around and saw Shen Yuqing snickering. She couldn't help showing embarrassment. She looked at Li Jingfeng again and asked, "What's wrong with you?"

Li Jingfeng felt uncomfortable in his chest, a little dizzy and nauseated. He guessed that his face must be bad, so he quickly replied: "It's okay, it's okay."

"Are you seasick?" Shen Weichen said, "Go to the bow of the ship for a walk. The wind will make you feel better. Wait until Dr. Zhu gets up and get medicine with him."

"Okay." Although Li Jingfeng said this, he did not stand up immediately. He thought for a moment and cursed himself: "What are you still thinking about?" He stood up and said, "I'm going for a walk." Then he walked towards the bow of the ship.He saw the lush forest on both sides of the bank, which was very beautiful, but he was preoccupied with it and had no intention of admiring it, so he lay on the bow of the boat and looked at the flowing water. As he looked at it, he suddenly felt nauseous and vomited it out with a "wow" sound.

His stomach was churning and he vomited all his lunch. As soon as he stood still, he saw someone standing behind him and asked him: "Is this your first time on a boat?"

Li Jingfeng did not dare to look directly at the man's face. He tilted his head slightly and said, "Yes, it's the first time. It's also the first time I've seen such a big ship."

"This is also my first time leaving Qingcheng." Shen Weichen said with a smile: "Wipe it, and I'll ask someone to bring you tea to rinse your mouth." He handed out a silk scarf.Li Jingfeng felt something in his heart, and quickly said no, wiped the vomit from his mouth with his sleeve, and said, "I'm fine."

Shen Weichen frowned and said, "Isn't washing clothes more troublesome than washing towels?"

"I can just wash it myself. I don't have to bother anyone else. It's easy to get water here, so it doesn't matter." This joke was not clever. Li Jingfeng secretly cursed himself for being stupid, but he didn't know how to reply.

Shen Weichen said: "The clothes on the boat are washed by others. You use your clothes to wipe them. If you are tired of washing the clothes yourself, others will not worry about it, so why bother."

Li Jingfeng felt his face turn red and could only say, "I didn't think about Zhou Yan. I thought this scarf was beautiful and I was afraid it would get dirty."

Shen Weichen smiled and said: "No matter how beautiful it is, it is only used to wipe dirty things. This is a silk scarf, but it is easier to wash."

Li Jingfeng felt very ashamed and said, "I didn't think so much."

Shen Weichen asked: "I just listened to Dr. Zhu's story and you didn't answer. Is it because you feel uncomfortable or for some other reason?"

Li Jingfeng was stunned and said nonchalantly: "I... don't know what to say." He turned his head and looked at the deep forest on the shore and said, "Doctor Zhu is a miracle doctor and has experience. Even Mr. Xie's companion is a reader. Smart people who have read books, I don’t understand you when you talk about Yebang, Diancang, and Songshan. Until a few days ago, Yebang seemed like the bad guy in the story. I knew these people existed, but I never thought they would. We met. I couldn't get in the middle of what you were talking about, and I was surprised that you even called me here to listen to your story." Li Jingfeng thought to himself that he was just being implicated. Shen Yuqing was afraid of danger, so she took him on board the ship to take refuge. Elsewhere, it is normal for them to get off the boat and not have any intersection after that.

Speaking of the night list, he thought of the shopkeeper again. Li Jingfeng said again: "Before boarding the boat, I went to see the shopkeeper's family again. The wife of the boss cried miserably." After saying that, he couldn't help but feel pity, "He didn't provoke anyone. , a group of big shots want to cause trouble, but I don’t know how many people died in vain like this.”

Shen Weichen said: "Do you think my brother is the same?"

Li Jingfeng hurriedly shook his head and said: "Of course it's different. He was afraid that I would be in danger and took me out of Qingcheng. I am a small person, so he was really kind-hearted to take care of me. Zhuge Ran gave up all four of his men just for a plot. Kill him, Mr. Shen is naturally different from those people."

Shen Weichen said: "Don't always tilt your head when you speak, can you look at the person talking?"

Li Jingfeng was startled and raised his head.At this time, dusk was approaching, the ship was heading west, and Shen Weichen stood in the wind. The afterglow of the setting sun reflected her figure, and a long shadow dragged on the ground. She really looked like a fairy.Li Jingfeng only glanced at it, his heart pounding, he turned around quickly and found an excuse to say: "This is not polite."

Shen Weichen said: "I heard what you said, brother, and I think it makes sense. You said that you are not from the world, your status does not match, and you are not a friend. Just like today, you can't get in the middle of what we say. It is inevitable . My brother is the next head, so he has to maintain some dignity. Sometimes he shows it inadvertently, but he never means to belittle others. It's you yourself. He didn't alienate you, but you alienated us. Who is it now? Do you remember your identity?"

Li Jingfeng thought to himself, it's really not a matter of identity that I dare not look at you. Even if I'm your brother, I wouldn't hide like this.But he couldn't explain the matter, so he had no choice but to obey and raised his head to look directly at Shen Weichen. At this look, he couldn't help but feel his heart beat and blush again, but he didn't know if Shen Weichen saw it.

Shen Weichen asked again: "Do you know who I admire the most when listening to Dr. Zhu's story?"

Li Jingfeng asked: "Jiang Da and his wife?"

Shen Weichen was taken aback and said in surprise: "How do you know?"

Li Jingfeng said: "They are really good people. Seeing them hiding here and there, I thought they had enemies, so they risked their lives to save Mr. Chai. They are not related to Mr. Chai, but they are acting bravely out of a sense of justice."

Shen Weichen said: "Yes, Dr. Zhu is a capable person. A capable person is not afraid of causing trouble. It is commendable that they, an ordinary couple, are not afraid of causing trouble." She continued, "A capable person does more. , even those with lower abilities can contribute. Without Jiang Da and his wife, Doctor Zhu would not be able to save Chai Er."

Li Jingfeng knew that Shen Weichen's words were to encourage him not to take himself lightly. Although she had misunderstood, he was deeply moved and said, "I know."

Shen Weichen asked: "Do you want to be a disciple of Qingcheng? I will ask my brother to accept you as my apprentice."

Li Jingfeng thought to himself, isn't this a generation shorter?I still have to call you Senior Sister. Alas, this is not good. I have to find an excuse to refuse.While he was in a dilemma, Shen Mochen said again: "No, this will make you a generation shorter and more reserved when making friends. Uncle Dayuan is also on board, why not let him accept you as his apprentice?"

"I can't go back to Qingcheng." Li Jingfeng said with a bitter smile. When he thought about this, he thought about going to Shuzhong again. He was afraid that he would never be able to return to Ba County, and that he would never see Shen Weichen again, and he couldn't help but feel sad.

Shen Weichen said: "That's true. By the way, I haven't asked you if you want to learn martial arts, so I just started thinking about it on my own. It's quite enviable to find a place to live and work in peace and contentment like Jiang Da and his wife. After learning martial arts, After receiving the title of chivalrous person, a lot of troubles came to my door."

Li Jingfeng asked: "You were the one who saved me that day. Are your kung fu... very good?"

Shen Weichen said: "I don't know, I don't like to use force with others. But I said he can't beat me."

Li Jingfeng thought to himself that Shen Yuqing must have loved his little sister and let her go.

Shen Weichen smiled and said: "You ask this, do you want to worship me as your teacher?"

Li Jingfeng hurriedly waved his hand and said: "No, no! I just remembered that you knocked the killer's steel knife crooked the other day when you threw it away. It was very powerful." He asked again, "You said you don't like to use force, so how can you still have good kung fu?" so good?"

"Practice martial arts is very interesting." Shen Weichen said, "I love practicing martial arts, but my mother said that it is unethical for a girl to fight and kill. It would be even worse if she gets injured. I have no chance to fight with others in Qingcheng." Then he smiled again. He said, "Actually, I felt proud of saving you that day. It was the first time I used martial arts to save someone, and I felt a little excited."

Li Jingfeng smiled bitterly and said: "You are definitely not as excited as I am. This is your first time saving someone, and this is my first time being rescued. I am so scared that my legs are weak."

Shen Weichen smiled and said: "If your legs are really weak, you won't be able to wait for me to save you. You are brave."

Li Jingfeng looked ashamed, lowered his head and said, "The more you comfort me, the more upset and ashamed I become."

Seeing that he was sad, Shen Weichen changed the topic and asked, "Do you feel better now?"

Li Jingfeng said: "I vomited just now. I feel better now, but I'm still a little dizzy."

Shen Weichen nodded and looked towards the bow of the ship, and Li Jingfeng also looked ahead.The big ship was moving slowly. At this time, Shen Weichen stood side by side with him. It was much different than before when he was leaning on the railing alone. He could only feel that the scenery on both sides of the strait was extremely beautiful.

The two of them stood for a long time, and the water vapor gradually became heavier, and they felt a little chilly. Then they heard someone calling for food.Shen Weichen turned to Li Jingfeng and said, "If you want to learn martial arts, you can ask me for help. He can always recommend famous teachers for you." He also warned, "It's windy, don't stand for too long. It's uncomfortable to get seasick and catch a cold."

Li Jingfeng said: "I'm going to ask Doctor Zhu to have dinner and order some medicine."

Shen Weichen nodded, and the two of them went back to their rooms.

During dinner, the six of them were still sitting at the same table. Although Li Jingfeng was not as embarrassed as before, he was still a little uncomfortable.After dinner, Shen Yuqing went to see Xie Gubai again.Li Jingfeng was bored in the room, so he got up for a walk. He walked back and forth in the cabin several times but didn't see anyone he knew, so he had to go back to the room. After staying for a while, he simply got up and asked Zhu Menshang about his room, and then went to find Zhu Menshang directly.

"Why are you looking for me? Are you still seasick?" Zhu Menshang asked, "Do you want me to give you a couple of injections?"

"It's much better now." Li Jingfeng said, "Just...well, can I go in and talk?"

"Okay, I'm bored drinking alone." Zhu Menshang asked him to come in. There was a pot of wine and a few pieces of dried meat on the table.

Zhu Menshang said: "There are advantages to following Prince Qingcheng. This jerky is different from what I usually eat. It's soft and sweet. It's not like the jerky I brought myself. It's like cowhide and I'm afraid of breaking my teeth." Then he picked up a piece and put it into his mouth with the wine, "If you are separated from them, you have to pack a few kilograms and take it with you."

"Doctor Zhu, can you teach me some kung fu?" Li Jingfeng asked, "You know kung fu, right?"

As if he had heard something interesting, Zhu Menshang straightened his back, looked Li Jingfeng up and down, and said, "If you want to learn martial arts, why are you looking for me? Go look for Shen Yuqing."

Li Jingfeng said: "Don't you know the same?"

"If you know how to do it, I'll teach you. Look at this needle, hold it up to the opponent's eyes and chest, and pierce it in." Zhu Menshang took out the half-foot-long needle, shook it, and said, "I know how to do this."

Li Jingfeng said: "This is too vicious, is there nothing else?"

Zhu Menshang said: "My master is a Shaolin monk. I have not entered the temple and cannot learn superior kung fu. These moves are only for life-saving and self-defense and are of no use."

Li Jingfeng said: "Then I will learn medicine from you." He thought to himself that if he learned medical skills, he could save people and it would not be useless.

Zhu Menshang said: "I don't want to settle down yet. It's troublesome to have someone by my side to take care of me. And you are an honest person. Can you sell steel mouth to me, Yuan Nianzi? If you really want to learn kung fu, let me think about it..."

Li Jingfeng saw Zhu Menshang deep in thought and did not dare to disturb him.I only heard Zhu Menshang say: "You can't go back to Qingcheng. Since you want to become a disciple, of course it is best to choose the nine families. Their status is different, and their kung fu is more advanced. Tang Sect is good at hidden weapons and poisons. I guess you don't like it, Shaolin Wudang is still the first choice. It’s just that these sects have great careers and many disciples. If you have no one to recommend you, even if you find a master to take you in, you may not be capable..."

Zhu Menshang suddenly slapped his head and said, "Yes!"

Li Jingfeng asked: "What's there?"

Zhu Menshang said: "That Xiao Qinggu story from Songshan Mountain! Sichuan is thousands of miles away from Shandong. I'm too lazy to walk this time. Please help me send a message and tell him about Jiang Da and his wife. He accepts your love. Just ask him. Remember, if you want to become a disciple, you must be under the head of Songshan Mountain. Don’t become Young Master Xiao’s apprentice. It should be noted that the head of Songshan is the same generation as the head of Qingcheng. If you worship Xiao Qing and pretend to be your master, you will be short. for our whole life."

Li Jingfeng thought Zhu Menshang's words were strange and asked, "That's it?"

Zhu Menshang said: "Of course it's not just that. You become your master to the head of Songshan Mountain and learn martial arts. After you have mastered the skills, don't stay in Songshan Mountain. Go to Hengshan Mountain in Hunan, where monks and laymen work together regardless of sect. Once you have the skills, you can make a career there. If you do well, you can get a job in Hunan and take root there."

Li Jingfeng said: "I went to Shandong to learn martial arts, and why did I go to Hunan to take root again? How many years have it been? Why am I going in this circle?"

Zhu Menshang said: "I guess it will take 30 to [-] years. When the circle is over, your heart will die." After saying this, he laughed.

Li Jingfeng heard that he was teasing him, and couldn't help but blush, and said, "What are you thinking?"

Zhu Menshang patted him on the shoulder and said: "Come on, brother, I haven't seen men and women before. I can't see what you are thinking? You dared to contradict Shen Yuqing in the inn, and you didn't even talk to a girl when you got to the table. Dare to look at it. Okay, okay, let's drink...drink..." Then he helped Li Jingfeng pour a glass of wine.

Li Jingfeng drank the wine and said, "I really want to learn martial arts, but I'm afraid I'm not that good at it. As for Miss Shen..." He sighed and said with a wry smile, "Come on, let's drink." He poured another glass and drank it. .

Li Jingfeng knew in his heart that Shen Weichen was in a place that was unattainable and out of reach for him, and he didn't even have a few words to say.After learning martial arts, he might be able to talk to her a few more words. Maybe this was one of the reasons why he wanted to learn martial arts, but it was not the biggest reason.

"If I could learn some martial arts, the boss wouldn't have died in vain." Li Jingfeng said, "I just want to do something."

"Be a hero?" Zhu Menshang said with a smile, "Where do heroes come from in this world? There are sects that take care of everything in the local area, and those who are not controlled are included in the night list. A hero is just a dog that has received the title of knight. There are restrictions everywhere.”

Li Jingfeng asked in surprise: "Don't you have the title of chivalrous person?"

Zhu Menshang said: "No, that thing is useless!" and asked, "By the way, aren't you from Gansu? Why don't you go back to your hometown? Kongtong is also a big sect. Becoming an Iron Sword Silver Guard is comparable to being a knight. It's more prestigious. But it's a pity that Iron Sword Silver Guard can't leave Gansu, so you won't be able to see your sweetheart."

Li Jingfeng smiled bitterly and said, "It's a blessing to be able to see it now." He thought that Kongtong might be good. Guarding the border and keeping an eye on the Sa religion barbarians was also his great ambition to protect his family and country.

Zhu Menshang said: "If you really think about it, when you get to Shuzhong, find a place to release you. What's the difficulty in sending you north? Let Mr. Shen write a letter of recommendation, and Master Zhu will take good care of you."

Li Jingfeng raised his glass and said, "No need for introduction. Thank you, Brother Zhu, for showing me the way."

The two toasted to each other.After this conversation, the two chatted freely and there was no longer any barrier.Li Jingfeng was curious and asked about the past of Zhu Menshang's medical practice. Zhu Menshang had traveled all over the world, so naturally he had many stories to tell.

※ ※ ※

After dinner, Shen Yuqing visited Xie Gubai in his room and talked about the purpose of his trip to Tangmen.

"Among the nine great families, although Wudang is obsessed with seeking immortality, Taoist Master Xuanxu has an indifferent personality. It is not easy for Dian Cang to convince him." Xie Gubai said, "As for the situation in Shaolin, Master Shen must know."

Shen Yuqing nodded: "I heard about the dispute between the secular and the secular." He said, "Shaolin is not peaceful either."

Xie Gubai said: "Speaking of which, I know the Xiao Qinggu that Doctor Zhu mentioned."

Shen Yuqing didn't expect this and asked, "Sir, have you seen him?"

Xie Gubai said: "I just heard about it. It is said that he joined the Songshan Sect a few years ago and is in charge of everything. The most rare thing is that he suppressed the anti-Shaolin people in Songshan."

Shen Yuqing was very surprised.Although I heard that after the Shaosong Controversy, the leaders of the Songshan Sect were all moderates and maintained a vassal relationship with Shaolin. However, there are actually many anti-Shaolin elements within Songshan who have been waiting for opportunities to seize power, and some are more extreme. It is a private activity, against his own sect.Because of these people, Songshan has never been able to unite, but has weakened its own strength. Compared with the Shaosong conflict, it has no capital to fight against Shaolin.So he asked: "Is there such a person? He is the son-in-law of the head of Songshan Mountain. He is probably about the same age as me. With such talent, how come I haven't heard of this person before? What is his origin?"

Xie Gubai said: "He is still a lay disciple of Shaolin Temple and joined the Songshan sect."

There have always been anti-Shaolin forces in Songshan Mountain. Shaolin disciples can actually join Songshan Mountain, get important positions, and suppress anti-Shaolin forces? "This Young Master Xiao is a talented person." Shen Yuqing said, "If we are destined to meet him someday, we must make friends with him."

"Songshan has grown stronger, and Shaolin dare not be reckless. It will do no good to it to vote for Dian Cang." Xie Gubai said, "Shaolin's vote is hard to sway."

"Tangmen and Kongtong are left." Shen Yuqing said, "As long as Qingcheng does not defect, Hengshan will have four votes. As long as Tangmen agrees to form an alliance with Qingcheng, Zhuge Yan's plan will be in vain. The great chaos will be subsided invisibly.”

Seeing that Xie Gubai just smiled and did not answer the question, he asked again: "Brother Xie, don't you think so?"

Xie Gubai said calmly: "Have you also heard about Zhuge Yan's recruitment of troops after he succeeded?"

Shen Yuqing said: "Does he really not hesitate to fight? The world has been peaceful for 90 years, just for the position of leader?"

Xie Gubai asked back: "Is Dian Cang the only one recruiting troops?"

"Dian Cang's power is growing, and Hengshan, Qingcheng, and Tangmen are closely connected to it, so we must be prepared." Shen Yuqing said, "Don't rely on the enemy not coming, rely on me to be ready for him."

Xie Gubai said: "What about the Beggar Clan and Huashan?"

"Qingcheng and Hengshan are getting stronger... They..." Shen Yuqing hesitated.

Xie Gubai said: "Of course we need to recruit more troops. Six of the nine major families are recruiting troops."

"Is this the conclusion you came to after visiting the nine major families?" Shen Yuqing asked, "In Mr. Yi's opinion, how can we eliminate the disaster of this war?"

Xie Gubai said: "What if I say that the disaster of war cannot be eliminated?"

Shen Yuqing was shocked and asked: "Sir?"

Xie Gubai said: "Maybe we can let it end quickly."

Shen Yuqing thought about the meaning of this sentence. It should be said that Diancang was surrounded by three factions of Tangmen in Qingcheng, Hengshan. If an incident really happened, they might be able to defeat it quickly under the attack of the three factions, but he still said: "I still hope Matters discussed in Kunlun can be resolved in Kunlun’s consensus.”

"One more thing." Shen Yuqing asked, "Sir claims to be from the Guigu lineage, but I have searched all the books and never heard of this place. He also said he came from Aofeng, and I can't find this place either. Dare I ask? Sir, which of the nine families Aofeng is under the rule of?"

Xie Gubai said: "Aofeng is no longer under the rule of the Nine Families."

Shen Yuqing thought for a while and said, "Kunlun?"

Xie Gubai raised his eyebrows and said with a smile: "Young master Shen is really smart and can guess right away. Aofeng is above Kunlun. This is the only place that belongs to the pass and is beyond the control of the nine great families."

"It's not difficult to guess. Although the Kunlun Palace is within the territory of Kongtong, in terms of position, it is unique from the Nine Families." Shen Yuqing said, "But the Kunlun Palace is heavily guarded, and the Kunlun Mountains are not very wide within the pass. , Can the Guigu lineage hide from the eyes of Kunlun Palace?"

Xie Gubai said: "If the population is not prosperous, no one will notice it. There are not many people in the Guigu lineage."

Shen Yuqing asked again: "What kind of sect is the Guigu lineage and what is its purpose? Sir, can you tell me clearly?"

Xie Gubai said: "Guigu sect originated from Guiguzi, with disciples Su Qin and Zhang Yi. After the Qin Dynasty, it gradually disappeared from the world and gradually declined. It was gathered before the previous dynasty and only had a small number of successors. Unlike other sects, Guigu sect accepted disciples such as Chongwen Qingwu mainly teaches the art of vertical and horizontal movements."

"A person who is both vertical and horizontal, can argue clearly and use rhetoric to communicate the aspirations of superiors and subordinates. Sir, you are indeed a bit like this." Shen Yuqing said thoughtfully.

"There is more to this statement. If you are a sycophant, you will be sharp with your words, turn danger into deceit, harm the faithful, destroy the country and bring chaos to the family." Xie Gubai smiled, "Young Master Shen trusts me so much, are you not afraid that I am a traitor? "

"Sir, Mr. Shen needs to make his own judgment as to whether he can make suggestions." Shen Yuqing said, "We cannot put all the blame on the treacherous official Jin. If you don't know right from wrong and can't make a decision, it will be difficult for Marquis Wu to assist him again." He asked again, "Then what does 'the world is in chaos, the valley of ghosts opens, the world is in order, and the valley of ghosts hides'?"

"Governing the world should be based on benevolence, measure the world's situation, achieve power and change, and stabilize the world to bring peace to the people. Stability is the key to stability. What do politicians want to do with their undying tongue and messing up the world? So the world is in chaos, and the ghost valley is there. It can be determined that if the world is governed, there will be no place for it.”

"Are everyone in the Guigu Sect so ambitious?" Shen Yuqing asked, "Why don't you wait until the world is in chaos before making a grand appearance?" "That's not necessarily the case. Most of the time, they just eat idle food and talk about nothing. Xie Gubai smiled and said, "Everyone is a player in this game of chess. Xie just foresaw certain clues and came to remind the young master."

"Young master always boasts." Xiaoba beside him said with narrowed eyes, "If you are so capable, you must have many brothers. Why is there only one left?"

Xie Gubai glanced at Xiaoba and said with a smile: "Are you not convinced?"

Xiao Ba said: "Master, let's talk some other time. This boat has been rocking for a whole day, and it's rocking people to death."

Shen Yuqing said apologetically: "I'm sorry to disturb you two's rest. I'll take my leave." He stood up and saluted.Xie Gubai sent him out, then turned around and smiled at Xiaoba: "What's wrong? Do you think you were teased by me?"

Xiaoba put away the cups and teapots on the table and replied: "Master Shen is not an embroidered pillow. He cares about what you say, and nonsense will easily make him suspicious."

Xie Gubai asked, "Do you want him to be suspicious, or do you want him not to be suspicious?"

Xiaoba thought for a long time and did not answer.

※ ※ ※

Shen Yuqing returned to the cabin and saw Shen Weichen waiting in her room, asking, "Little sister, can't you sleep well?"

Shen Weichen asked: "Are you looking for Mr. Xie again?"

Shen Yuqing pulled up a chair and sat down, asking, "Yeah, what's wrong?"

Shen Weichen pondered for a long time, shook his head and said, "I don't like them both."

"Oh?" Although Shen Yuqing was surprised, she was not too surprised. The behavior of the master and servant was indeed strange. Shen Yuqing understood that these two people had many things they kept from her, including their origins in the Guigu sect. Maybe it's also a fake sect.However, Xie Gubai's talents were indeed extraordinary, and he was very close to him. After several in-depth conversations, he felt like we had met him before, and he still hoped to have a close relationship with him.So he replied: "Brother will pay attention."

"These two people are hiding deep. I don't know how much they have not said clearly." Shen Weichen said, "Li Jingfeng is much better. Brother, you are really neglecting me."

This sentence reminded Shen Yuqing that since boarding the ship, he had been curious and admired Xie Gubai. His mind was always on Xie Gubai, and he had indeed neglected Li Jingfeng.Just remembering the lesson he received from Li Jingfeng that day, he always felt that nothing he said to him during the conversation was right. If he talked about martial arts matters, Li Jingfeng would not understand. If he talked about common things, Li Jingfeng might not be interested. If he talked about things in the market, it would be too artificial. , as Li Jingfeng said, even the words can’t make up the difference.He smiled bitterly and said: "In ancient times, when Lord Xinling made friends with Hou Ying, he only gave gifts but did not visit him. Sure enough, there was a reason."

Shen Weichen said: "Hou Ying returned the gift, and you were also returned the gift. You are too reserved to make friends with others, and you don't care about him. You have a different identity in your heart. This is not to say that you look down on him, but that you look down on him. You're afraid that he thinks you look down on him. In fact, Li Jingfeng doesn't have that much scheming."

Shen Yuqing thought about it and felt it made sense, and sighed: "You can always see my blind spots." Then he asked, "Why are your parents willing to let you come to Tangmen with me?"

"Speaking of this matter, this time the envoy was killed, I asked dad, and he said that you were plotting behind the scenes and blaming him. Otherwise, how could the black iron at home have disappeared? I will defend you and say that is the point. Cang’s big show is to intimidate Qingcheng.”

Shen Yuqing didn't want to upset her younger sister, thinking that the matter had been settled, so she didn't mention Shen Yayan's suspicions. He only mentioned that Dian Cang might have set up the blame. Shen Yayan wouldn't admit it, but she didn't expect that he would be blamed. On oneself.I also thought that even if my father didn't say it, it was a fact that Xuan Tie was stolen. I had to handle this matter myself. With my mother's character, I'm afraid Master Ya's status in Qingcheng would be worse than before. Of course he was unhappy. .

"It makes sense for my uncle to doubt me. After all, the black iron collection is very dense and difficult for outsiders to obtain." As soon as he said this, he immediately regretted it. Didn't this put the suspicion back on Master Ya again?He was usually cautious in his speech, making up his mind before speaking, but he had no scheming in front of his little sister. He suddenly spoke out and said hurriedly: "But there are ghosts in the night list. There should be a traitor hidden in Qingcheng. Be careful. If the other party is allowed to instigate it, what will happen to you?" Qingcheng is unfavorable."

Shen Weichen said: "Anyway, dad doubts you. I said I wanted to go to Tangmen with you, but he originally refused, but I couldn't get him to do it, so he asked me to ask my mother."

"Isn't this more difficult?" Shen Yuqing said with a smile.

"So I went to Mrs. Chu to help intercede. Mrs. Chu, um... gave me some advice."

When her mother was young, she was a famous heroine in the world. Shen Yuqing could predict what Mrs. Ya would say.It seems that Mrs. Laiya may not be willing, but was forced by her mother, so she had to agree, so she smiled and said: "You are really smart. I think my mother must have said a lot of good things before letting you come out this time."

Shen Weichen smiled and said: "It's a pity that you didn't see Mrs. Chu's long speech." The brother and sister looked at each other and smiled.

※ ※ ※

The next day Li Jingfeng got up early and saw Shen Yuqing sitting on the side of the boat with something in his hand.Shen Yuqing beckoned: "Jingfeng, come here."

Li Jingfeng was not used to hearing him being called so intimately. He remembered what Shen Weichen said yesterday and stepped forward to say hello. He saw Shen Yuqing fishing with four fishing rods beside him.Shen Yuqing said: "When we get on the boat, wouldn't it be a waste not to fish? Pick up a fishing rod and have fun together. Sichuan is still far away."

Although Li Jingfeng had never fished before, he found it interesting. He picked a fishing rod and asked, "Why are there only five fishing rods?"

Shen Yuqing looked at the river and said, "My little sister only knows how to catch fish in a fishing net. She doesn't dare to fish or kill fish."

Li Jingfeng asked with a smile: "I'm not good at fishing, but I have a unique secret for grilling and cooking fish."

Shen Yuqing said: "Then you have to catch the fish first."

Li Jingfeng threw the fishhook into the water: "You need to teach me how to do this."

Shen Yuqing said: "What's so difficult about this? First of all, you have to be patient."

While the two were talking, Zhu Menshang, Xie Gubai and Xiaoba happened to arrive on the deck.Shen Yuqing saw them coming and asked them to fish together. Five people stood in a row, each holding a fishing rod and chatting.

After a while, Xiao Ba watched the fishing rod in Shen Yuqing's hand bending, and said with a faint smile: "The fish is hooked." Shen Yuqing pulled, and a half-foot-long big fish was indeed hooked.

Suddenly, they heard someone behind them clapping their hands and laughing: "Brother is still awesome!" Everyone turned around and saw that Shen Weichen had arrived on the deck at some point and was hiding in the shade to watch.

Shen Yuqing smiled and said: "Little sister, help me untie the fish. This is lunch."

Shen Weichen looked at the fish struggling on the deck and couldn't bear it. He said hurriedly: "I don't dare. I'll help you carry the bucket." He quickly ran into the cabin and came out with the bucket after a while.

Li Jingfeng poured the fish for Shen Yu, and the two returned to the boat. Zhu Menshang said: "Yesterday Jingfeng told me that he wanted to go to Kongtong to learn skills."

Shen Yuqing asked: "Have you thought clearly?"

Li Jingfeng nodded: "I can't go back to Qingcheng. I don't like poisonous and hidden weapons. Although there are many rules in Kongtong, it's easy to pass on the skills. I just want to learn some martial arts and do something useful." He looked at the river and asked, "Master Shen , how to catch this fish?"

Shen Yuqing said: "Use the right bait and the right fishing rod. All that's left is patience and waiting for the big fish to take the bait."

As he spoke, the fishing rod in Li Jingfeng's hand suddenly bent, and he exclaimed happily: "I'm hooked!" He pulled hard, but the hook couldn't bite, so he pulled an empty rod, swung it back, and hooked Shen Yuqing. collar.Li Jingfeng didn't notice. He pulled the hook and lifted up Shen Yuqing's collar. Shen Yuqing said hurriedly: "Don't pull! Be careful to break the fishing line!" Xiao Ba said: "It really works, it's a big fish."

Everyone laughed, and Shen Weichen unhooked the hook for Shen Yuqing. Shen Yuqing said: "This fish is hooked. Don't pull it in a hurry. If you use brute force, the fish will be detached. You have to take it slow, pull it gently, and let it go. , wait until it bites deeply, then raise the rod. The key is to look at the draft and the curvature of the fishing rod. It is also best to use a familiar fishing rod. Only a familiar fishing rod will know how much water is drafted and how heavy the fishing rod is, so that it will not go too big. Stay small.”

Xie Gubai smiled and said, "Master Shen is quite good at fishing."

Shen Yuqing said: "My father said that fishing nourishes the mind, so he often takes me fishing in my spare time."

Zhu Menshang said: "A rich man only knows the surface of this kind of idle work. I have caught more fish than he has eaten shrimps."

Shen Weichen smiled and said: "Doctor Zhu, don't talk nonsense, your pole hasn't moved yet."

Zhu Menshang snorted coldly and said, "Want to take a gamble? Brother Jingfeng and I will work together, and you three will work together to see who can catch more fish!"

Shen Weichen said: "Okay, what are you betting on?"

Zhu Menshang said: "Give me your Qingcheng token." He was referring to the token representing the identity of the young master of Qingcheng. He had seen a similar token on Yang Yan, but the one on Yang Yan was The leader's token.Xianxia is just a small sect, and the Qingcheng Prince Token on Shen Yuqing represents the entire Qingcheng. Although it is inferior to the first level, it is more than a hundred times more valuable than the one on Yang Yan.

Shen Weichen asked: "What do you want this for?"

Zhu Menshang said: "Young Master Qingcheng's token is very precious. From now on, it will be easy to travel around and pass through customs and interrogations. If you use it to scare people, you might be able to save your life."

Xie Gubai said: "If you get into trouble, Qingcheng will have to help you bear the burden."

Shen Yuqing hesitated and said: "This token represents Qingcheng and cannot be given away casually..."

Shen Weichen said: "What are you betting on?"

Zhu Menshang said: "One free clinic for each person."

"You don't charge for medical treatment. This is not a gamble." Xiao Ba said, "Sign a contract of sale and give it to Mr. Shen for three years."

Zhu Menshang said: "Why didn't you say that I should be your son?"

Xie Gubai said: "My family is poor and cannot afford to support a living Bodhisattva."

Zhu Menshang spat and said: "Bah! Your family is poor, am I no longer a beggar?" Just as he was talking, the fishing rod bent, Zhu Menshang said: "Let you see my methods!" As he said it, he pulled again and again. He picked up a big fish that was half a foot long, bigger than the one Shen Yuqing just had.

Shen Weichen said: "The bet has not been placed yet, so this does not count."

Zhu Menshang smiled and said: "I'm not afraid of you being a scoundrel, so I'll let you do it a little!"

Xiao Ba said: "Then let's do a free clinic. It's just up to us to decide when to use it."

Zhu Menshang smiled and said, "You will definitely lose!"

Xiaoba asked Li Jingfeng again: "What are you betting on?"

Li Jingfeng thought for a long time and said, "I am broke and have nothing to compensate for."

Shen Yuqing said: "You go to Kongtong to learn art. If you succeed in it one day, you must come to Qingcheng to see me."

Seeing that his expression was sincere, Li Jingfeng couldn't help but be moved and nodded: "Okay."

Zhu Menshang said: "There is only one token, and it belongs to me. What do you want to lose to him?"

Shen Weichen smiled and said: "Do you want my token?"

Li Jingfeng shook his head and suddenly said: "I'm going to Kongtong to become a disciple. I need a few weapons. Miss Shen has a sword, so give it to me."

Shen Weichen said: "That was my original intention of giving it to me. It was the first time I made a sword."

Li Jingfeng said hurriedly: "Forget it."

Shen Weichen glanced at Shen Yuqing, and Shen Yuqing nodded. Shen Weichen smiled and said, "Okay, I'll give it to you if I win."

Li Jingfeng was overjoyed and suddenly became more interested in this bet.

Xie Gubai asked: "Is the bet set?"

Zhu Menshang said: "It's decided."

Xie Gubai smiled and said, "Okay!" He then pulled up a fish, which was more than three inches long, and said, "This is called getting the upper hand!"

It turned out that he had already caught the fish when everyone was talking, but he just kept the fishing rod loose and could not lift it up. When the fish got tired from swimming and stopped struggling, Zhu Menshang immediately raised the fishing rod as soon as he said yes.

Zhu Menshang scolded: "I'll try my best to use some tricks!"

The five of them agreed that Zhu Menshang and Li Jingfeng would go into a group, and Shen Yuqing, Xie Gubai, and Xiaoba would go fishing separately.As expected, Zhu Menshang's methods were superb and he often achieved results, but Li Jingfeng sat there for an hour, with Shen Yuqing giving pointers from time to time, and then there was some movement.Li Jingfeng was overjoyed. When he saw the water was deep, he thought it was a big fish. Based on his experience last time, he was patient this time. When the water was deep, he pulled out and found a crab.

Xiao Ba said: "We are fishing, crabs are not included."

Li Jingfeng was greatly embarrassed and quickly put the crab back into the river.

Zhu Menshang said: "Don't be afraid, I'll make them laugh with one stick! After noon, brother, I won't be afraid of the big ticket in the future!"

At this time, Shen Yuqing and Xie Gubai also made some gains, catching a few fish one after another, and Shen Weichen cheered loudly.Seeing that Xiao Ba's expression was calm but the fishing rod was motionless, he smiled and said: "Xiao Ba, your fishing rod is always motionless. Don't drag your young master down."

Xiao Ba replied: "It's not necessarily a good thing if there is movement. Look at Brother Jingfeng, he's lucky, but he just can't pull him back."

It turns out that Li Jingfeng set the hook several times because he raised the rod at the wrong time, and either missed or decoupled.Shen Weichen walked to him and saw that he missed frequently, so he couldn't help but comfort and encourage him.She didn't say anything. The more she talked, the more Li Jingfeng became flustered and confused.Bai Dayuan strolled over and saw what was interesting. He saw that the buckets on both sides were very small and he was afraid that they could not hold too many fish, so he shouted: "Zhang Qing, bring some more buckets!"

When heading to Tangmen this time, Shen Yongci specially ordered a few capable disciples to board the ship. Bai Dayuan and Zhang Qing, who had previously received Zhuge Ran, were also among them.

At this moment, there were six buckets on the deck, three each for Shen Yuqing and Zhu Menshang.Zhu Menshang did not boast. The numbers of the two sides were almost the same, but Zhu Menshang caught bigger fish and had an obvious advantage.

At six o'clock, Zhang Qing came to ask what he wanted for lunch. Zhu Menshang said: "Didn't you see so many fish? Eat river fresh food for lunch!"

Seeing that noon was approaching, Xie Gubai said: "Xiaoba, you and Jingfeng are the only ones left. You are clamoring to bet. If you lose, I can only sell you to Mr. Shen as a servant to pay back half the boatload of wine." ”

Xiao Ba said: "Master Shen said that you have to be patient when fishing. And what he just said is only half correct, and the most crucial part is not mentioned."

Xie Gubai said in surprise: "You also know about fishing?"

Xiaoba looked at the river and said, "One of them is a good one."

Xie Gubai said with a smile: "Don't be so talkative. Let's talk about it first."

While the two were talking, Li Jingfeng shouted again: "Yes, yes!" The fishing rod was very bent, and it seemed to be a big fish.He had the previous experience and did not dare to use force. Zhu Menshang shouted: "Let go! Let this beast swim for a while, and wait until it is exhausted before raising the pole again!" Li Jingfeng listened to his instructions, loosened the fishing line, and waited for the fish. After resting for a while, he raised his pole and pulled up a palm-sized fish.

Zhu Menshang said happily: "We will definitely win!"

Although this fish was not as big as expected, because of this one, the gap between the two sides had widened. There was only a quarter of an hour left before noon. Even if Shen and Xie each caught another fish, it would be difficult to reverse the situation.Zhu Menshang smiled and said: "Good luck, little brother Jingfeng, from now on your brother can walk sideways in the world!"

But Li Jingfeng thought: "I won the original intention, will it make Miss Shen unhappy?" At this thought, he suddenly felt that he should not have pulled up the fish just now.

Seeing that the victory was about to be decided, Xiao Ba suddenly said: "Here we come!" His fishing rod was very bent, and even Zhu Menshang was surprised when he saw that it was a big fish.Shen Yuqing was afraid that he would exert too much effort and the fishing line would not be able to bear it, so she hurriedly said: "Looseen up!"

Xiao Ba relaxed the fishing line and let the big fish swim back and struggle. Shen Yuqing hurriedly asked Bai Dayuan to direct the boat to turn the rudder and follow the direction of the fish.But the ship they built was huge and difficult to turn.Zhu Menshang said: "This fish is too big. The fishing rod cannot hold it and will break."

Xiao Ba simply adjusted the fishing rod and pulled the big fish to turn around. The fish swam along the hull of the boat. Xiao Ba followed the boat and everyone followed.Li Jingfeng shouted: "Xiaoba, let Mr. Shen take over!"

Zhu Menshang knocked him on the forehead and cursed: "You are eating everything inside and outside!"

Li Jingfeng smiled bitterly and said, "It's just a matter of gentlemen."

Zhu Menshang said: "Xiao Ba can do it too, don't underestimate him." He saw that Xiao Ba was very proficient in his skills, and he was indeed a good player.

Xiao Ba ran half a circle around the boat, and the fish suddenly turned again. Xiao Ba tightened the fishing line to prevent it from decoupling. It went around the bow of the boat before, and now it goes to the stern.Zhu Menshang shouted: "It's almost noon. Pulling up after noon doesn't count!"

Shen Weichen smiled and said: "Who is the scoundrel now?"

Zhu Menshang gave her a roll of his eyes and looked at Xiaoba again.At this time, the fish seemed to be exhausted, and Xiaoba stayed at the stern of the boat.The fishing hook was bitten tightly, and the fishing rod was almost bent into a semicircle. Fortunately, the fishing rods Shen Yuqing prepared were all of high quality and did not break.

Xiao Ba suddenly raised his pole, and a big fish flew out of dehydration and landed on the deck. It was more than a foot long.Shen Weichen cheered: "Win!"

When Zhu Menshang saw that the fish was so big that the bucket couldn't even fit in it, he knew he was going to lose and had a bad look on his face.Li Jingfeng patted him on the shoulder and said with a smile: "If you lose, you lose. Don't show off."

Zhu Menshang said: "You just lost one of your own itineraries, but I lost three big business deals in vain!"

Li Jingfeng laughed.Zhu Menshang stepped forward to untie the fish and unhooked it. He saw that the bait they used was dried meat, but the piece Xiaoba used was so big that ordinary small fish couldn't even eat it.Zhu Menshang asked: "Is there anyone fishing like you?"

Xiao Ba said: "Young master often says that you have to be big-hearted so that big fish can take the bait. If you focus on those small shrimps and crabs, no matter how much you catch, it will be in vain."

Zhu Menshang said: "Okay, I'll let you tell me everything!"

Li Jingfeng said: "Move to the kitchen and let me cook some good dishes!"

Zhu Menshang said: "It must be cooked thoroughly to avoid insects!"

Everyone thought of Chai Er's story and looked at him one after another.Zhu Menshang spread his hands and said, "I just want to give you a few words." After saying that, he couldn't help but smile strangely and said, "Don't be afraid, it's not a difficult insect. I can always control it." He gestured again. The action of pulling a bug out of the mouth.

Xiao Ba accompanied Li Jingfeng to pour the fish back into the river. Li Jingfeng complained: "Doctor Zhu likes to scare people. It's good that these fish have escaped."

Xiao Ba said: "You said that when you arrived in Shuzhong, you were going north to Kongtong?"

Li Jingfeng nodded and said, "Yes."

Xiao Ba caught the big fish he had caught and threw it into the river. He said calmly: "The trick Mr. Shen didn't mention is don't think about catching small fish. Think about catching big fish. With this confidence, big fish can be caught." Of course I will take the bait." He looked at Li Jingfeng with clear eyes. Only then did Li Jingfeng realize that Xiao Ba's eyes were unexpectedly deep.

"If you only want to learn some martial arts, it is not enough. If you want to learn, you must learn to be the best in the world and set the highest mountain top as your goal."

Li Jingfeng was shocked: "No. [-] in the world? How can I have that qualification?"

"If you take the top of the mountain as your goal and work hard to move forward, even if you can't climb to the top, you will still be on the hillside. If you just want to wander around the bottom of the mountain, you will only be at the foot of the mountain until you die." Xiao Ba said, "If you don't become a dragon in the sky, you will. Insects on the ground, you should go to Kongtong with this idea in mind."

Li Jingfeng was stunned. What Xiaoba said was something he and everyone around him had never expected.Number one in the world, how is this possible?

"Don't underestimate yourself. You have never climbed a mountain before. You don't know how high a mountain you can climb." Xiaoba looked at him steadily, his eyes firm, as if for him, this matter only depends on whether he is willing or not. Existence cannot be ordinary.

The best in the world... Li Jingfeng looked at Shen Weichen on the bow of the ship.

That might be the closest distance to her.

(End of this chapter)