118

"Shangguan Yunfei drifted away gracefully.

Su Tianqi looked at Lang Fanyun beside him and gave a thumbs up.

"Lang, I truly admire you today! Confronting a Five Qi Grandmaster with perfected strength in a single move is truly unprecedented, and it's unlikely that anyone will surpass it in the future."

"He didn't use his full power," the incarnation said calmly.

"Do you expect him to use his full power?" Su Tianqi asked, stunned.

Han Zhao took out a new set of white robes from his bag and tossed them to the incarnation.

The versatile incarnation was still handy.

If Han Zhao used the Diamond Body Protection himself, he could naturally unleash greater strength, but the outcome wouldn't change much; at most, he could buy a little more time.

Only the incarnation had little sense of pain, so he appeared unharmed.

"Thank you," the incarnation said as he removed his damaged clothes and changed on the spot.

Su Tianqi looked at this scene with a strange expression. Although these two people claimed to have an ordinary relationship, had they actually become this close?

"Han, weren't you afraid just now? What if Lang had been a little late in helping?" Su Tianqi couldn't help but ask.

"No, I was actually paralyzed with fear just now and couldn't move," Han Zhao said with a smile.

Su Tianqi twitched his mouth, wearing an expression that said, 'Do I look like a fool to you?'

"Let's go," the incarnation said.

"Yes," Han Zhao replied.

"It seems like I've experienced too little," Su Tianqi sighed inwardly.

The three of them quickly caught up with the group.

"Han Junior Brother, how's everything?" Xu Ling asked immediately.

"It's fine, just a minor issue, and it's been resolved," Han Zhao smiled and mounted his horse.

Upon hearing him say this, the others also breathed a sigh of relief.

The group continued for another two days and arrived at the bank of Changlin River.

It would take four more days to reach Yuanchang Prefecture City by land, but going downstream on the river would only take one day.

A group of more than a hundred people could abandon the carriages, but the horses couldn't be discarded directly. So Han Zhao rented a large cargo ship, about forty meters long.

"Get ready to board the ship, make sure you have everything with you, no items left behind!" The ship's owner directed the sailors on the dock to help move the cargo.

"Wu-wu—"

At this moment, there was a sudden mournful sound like a bronze chime on the river. Following that, a colossal warship, about a hundred meters long, appeared in everyone's sight. The ship was entirely made of wood as hard as fine iron, and it bore a flag with a ink dragon pattern on its mast.

"It's the Furious Dragon Gang's warship!"

"It's coming towards us!"

The sailors who were handling the cargo showed expressions of alarm.

While the Furious Dragon Gang was known for maintaining safety on the river, facing such a behemoth, who wouldn't be afraid? The gang's reputation might be good, but that didn't mean all its members were virtuous.

"Is that the Furious Dragon?" the ship owner widened his eyes. Such a warship, over a hundred meters long, was a rarity even within the Furious Dragon Gang. They would usually deploy it only during major battles against river pirates or sea bandits, and it meant that a territory master and a deputy gang leader were on board.

"Is it really coming this way?"

"Somebody jumped off the ship?!"

"Traveling on water like this? Must be a formidable expert!"

The Furious Dragon ship stopped near the dock, and three martial artists jumped off the ship, running on the river's surface to reach the shore, leaving everyone amazed.

"At least they are Grandmasters in Perfected Strength!" Lv Yiyi's pupils constricted. He had spent his youth to middle age in the prefecture city, so he knew about the Furious Dragon Gang's strength.

"Master, what should we do?" Zhao Yuantu's face changed slightly.

"Don't panic," Lv Yiyi said in a deep voice as he walked forward with a tense expression.

However, before he could say anything, the leading elder spoke loudly:

"I am Water Startled Wind, the Territory Master of the Furious Dragon Gang. Which one of you is Han Zhao and Lang Fanyun?"

"Water Startled Wind? Territory Master?" Lv Yiyi's face changed in astonishment. The Territory Masters of the Furious Dragon Gang were all Grandmasters. The fact that they were specifically seeking Han Zhao made him wonder if Han Zhao had committed an offense in the prefecture city. But what exactly was the matter? It had to be something significant to involve a Grandmaster-level expert.

"Furious Dragon Gang?" Han Zhao had been resting in the cabin with his eyes closed, but upon hearing the voice, he walked to the deck and saw three old men with dragon patterns on their clothes on the shore, led by a vigorous-looking one.

Han Zhao leaped from the large ship, which was seven or eight meters high, and the incarnation followed closely.

"So, it's true that heroes emerge among the young. I am Water Startled Wind, the Territory Master of the Furious Dragon Gang. Pleasure to meet you." Water Startled Wind showed no arrogance, wearing a smiling expression.

He was a disciple of the previous gang leader and the right-hand man of the current leader, so he knew secrets that the other Territory Masters and Deputy Gang Leaders didn't.

"Please." Han Zhao respectfully bowed. He had inquired about the Furious Dragon Gang and knew that below the leader and deputy leader, there were five Territory Masters, each specializing in one of the five elements: gold, wood, water, fire, and earth. This man was obviously one of them.

The incarnation also bowed in response but remained silent.

Seeing this, Water Startled Wind understood and said, "The other day, our leader personally invited Brother Han to join our gang. Brother Han said you needed some time to consider. Now, on our leader's orders, we have come to escort you to the prefecture city as a gesture of goodwill. Please don't refuse."

"I see. In that case, I would be impolite to decline," Han Zhao replied after a moment of contemplation. He realized that Shangguan Yunfei, in essence, was letting him know that they were aware of his whereabouts. If Shangguan Yunfei wanted to threaten him, he could have attacked Su Tianqi and the others directly. However, it would only lead to an irreparable conflict. Shangguan Yunfei, who was currently injured and planning to extract the Dragon Blood from the old gang leader Shangguan Lie, had limited options when it came to finding a suitable partner. So, there was no reason for Han Zhao to refuse.

"Please."

Han Zhao nodded and gestured for the people behind him to follow.

"When did Han Junior Brother become associated with the Furious Dragon Gang?" Xu Ling was puzzled and quickly followed.

Others were also filled with questions but realized that this was a significant development. Many of them had come to the prefecture city with a sense of adventure.

Now, seeing Han Zhao being treated as an honored guest by the Furious Dragon Gang, they couldn't help but feel fortunate about their choice.

While the Furious Dragon Gang might not rule over the entire Changlin River, it held considerable influence. Mentioning the name of the Furious Dragon Gang in Yuanchang Prefecture would garner respect from most martial artists.

"Han Senior Brother is doing quite well in the city, isn't he?"

"And he's so modest, saying it's nothing special."

"If this is nothing special, then we're all worse than pigs and dogs."

People thought Han Zhao was being overly humble; if they were in his shoes and had connections with the Furious Dragon Gang, they'd want everyone in Blackstone City to know.

The Furious Dragon Gang might not be the rulers of Changlin River, but they were a formidable force with Martial Saint-level experts.

After boarding the Furious Dragon Ship, they reached the dock near Yuanchang Prefecture City in less than a day.

During the journey, seeing Han Zhao conversing with these powerful figures they usually could only admire from a distance filled them with longing for their future days in the city.

"Han Brother, are you not going directly to Furious Dragon Island with me?" When Water Startled Wind sent Han Zhao off the ship, he made another attempt to persuade him.

"Thank you for your hospitality, Water Brother. I still need to settle my family and friends. After some time, I'll definitely visit Furious Dragon Island in person." Han Zhao replied, realizing that this visit was a gesture from Shangguan Yunfei, indicating that they were aware of his whereabouts. If Shangguan Yunfei wanted to threaten him, he could have attacked Su Tianqi and the others directly. However, it would only lead to an irreparable conflict. Shangguan Yunfei, who was currently injured and planning to extract Dragon Blood from the old gang leader Shangguan Lie, had limited options when it came to finding a suitable partner. So, there was no reason for Han Zhao to refuse.

"Very well, then we will wait for you on Furious Dragon Island." Water Startled Wind smiled and didn't say much more. He waved to the Furious Dragon Gang members on both sides, and the Furious Dragon Ship set sail again.

After bidding farewell to the Furious Dragon Gang, the group proceeded towards Yuanchang Prefecture City.

Upon reaching the city gate and facing the towering city wall that was over forty meters high, the martial artists couldn't help but sigh.

"Is this the prefecture city?"

"This is too extravagant!"

"With such high city walls, even a Martial Master would struggle to climb up!"

"Look at those ballistae on top; even a Martial Master might not withstand a single shot."

Comparing Blackstone City to Yuanchang Prefecture City was like comparing a remote village to the inner city district.

Most people entering the city didn't need identity checks, but their group of over a hundred people attracted attention, so they were briefly stopped at the gate.

However, Su Tianqi explained the situation to the guards, who loudly declared that they could pass.

Once inside the thick city walls, the martial artists were again in awe.

Lv Yiyi, looking at the bustling city that seemed unchanged for decades, couldn't help but feel nostalgic. In his youth, he was a prominent figure at the Martial Academy, coveted by several major powers as a potential breakthrough to the Grandmaster realm. However, various circumstances led him to leave and travel far from home. He had expected to spend his old age in the remote town of Blackstone City but never thought he'd return one day.

He was lost in his thoughts, remembering his first visit to see Junior Brother Lu and the way his fellow disciples followed him around. Those who, after achieving success, still remembered their old friendships were few and far between.

"Lv Senior Brother!"

In a daze, Lv Yiyi heard a familiar voice calling him.

"Lv Senior Brother!"

"Dad!"

Lv Yiyi's figure trembled, and he looked towards a three-story tavern on the right side of the street. To his surprise, his daughter Lv Yingsuan and his former junior sister Zhang Mudie were standing there. Both of them jumped down from the third floor and landed steadily in front of the group.

"Dad." It had been several years since Lv Yingsuan last saw her father, and seeing him looking much older now, she felt a sense of guilt.

"Seeing that you're doing well, I can finally rest easy." Lv Yiyi's beard trembled slightly as he looked at his daughter, who resembled her mother. He wiped his eyes.

"Sorry, Dad, I was too stubborn these past years." Although she had her reasons for avoiding her father, Lv Yingsuan now had no worries, thanks to Han Zhao's help.

"Don't be sorry, my daughter. These years have been hard for you." Lv Yiyi looked at his daughter's face, so reminiscent of her mother's. He rubbed his eyes.

"Master, today is a day for joyous reunions. You're not going to cry, are you?" Han Zhao teased, leaning over.

"You rascal! Asking for a beating!" Lv Yiyi scolded with a smile. The flood of emotions from earlier had dissipated.

"Senior Brother." Zhang Mudei, who was known for her strong and assertive personality, seemed somewhat shy in front of Lv Yiyi today.

"Zhang Junior Sister, it's been a while, and you still remember your Senior Brother." Lv Yiyi looked at her youthful face and couldn't help but sigh.

"Senior Brother, what's wrong? Is there something on my face?" Zhang Mudei noticed Lv Yiyi's gaze and instinctively touched the wrinkles at the corner of her eyes.

"I'm just amazed at how time flies. So many years have passed, and I've grown old, while you haven't changed a bit, just like when I left." Lv Yiyi smiled gently. He had already reached an age well beyond his prime, while this junior sister of his, who was only a year younger, had slowed down the aging process considerably after reaching the Grandmaster realm.

"Senior Brother, you're exaggerating. You haven't changed much either." Zhang Mudei blushed when she saw Lv Yiyi's affectionate gaze. Her demeanor was quite different from her usual assertiveness.

"Dad," Lv Yingsuan interjected, seeing the two of them like this, "Let's go and see the new house first. Master has already prepared it for you."

"When did you become so considerate, my daughter?" Lv Yiyi hadn't seen her for a long time and was touched by her thoughtfulness.

"Master, please come with us to see the new residence. It was chosen by both me and Yingsuan. I hope you'll like it," Zhang Mudei added.

"Alright." Lv Yiyi nodded, and the two of them led the way.

As they walked through Guanglin District and entered a grand courtyard with three courtyards, three entrances, Han Zhao observed their interactions and couldn't help but stroke his chin. It seemed that Senior Brother Lv was one of those people who could rely on his own strength but still chose to maintain a dignified lifestyle. However, when it came to appearance, he didn't seem to be very competitive.

"Junior Brother, thank you very much," Lv Yingsuan said, pausing for a moment to wait for Han Zhao.

"Senior Sister, you're too polite. This is something I should do." Han Zhao smiled. "It's been a long time since Senior Brother saw you, and there must be a lot to talk about. Why don't we go together?"

"Dad." Lv Yingsuan waited for a moment, then addressed Han Zhao, "We'd be delighted if you could join us."

"Thank you for your kind invitation. I'd be happy to accompany you," Han Zhao replied.

The group continued towards the new residence, and along the way, they discussed the changes in the city and shared stories of their past.

"Okay," Lv Yingsuan smiled and nodded, entering the main house.

"Junior Brother~ Thank you so much!" Xu Ling, who was a few steps behind, approached Han Zhao, imitating Lv Yingsuan's tone playfully.

Han Zhao turned around and saw Xu Ling dressed in a bright yellow silk robe. Her petite face was fair and charming, her figure petite yet well-proportioned, even though she wore loose clothing, her chest remained full and upright. Her large bright eyes blinked coyly, and her rosy, glossy lips were plump and sensual, tempting anyone to taste them.

Smack!

"Lv Senior Sister is your senior sister too, don't mimic her words recklessly."

Seeing no one around, Han Zhao slapped Xu Ling's plump buttocks.

"Junior Brother!" Xu Ling pouted and looked around nervously.

Han Zhao grabbed her wrist and walked towards the west wing. "Come with me into the room! Let me teach you properly!"

"Junior Brother? Isn't it inappropriate at someone else's house? Besides, Master and..."

Xu Ling's cheeks turned red, and she looked at him in surprise, knowing full well what he intended.

"Master has set aside a room for me in the west wing. This is also my home. As for Master and the others, they'll chat for at least a few hours and taste some delicious food. Besides..."

Han Zhao leaned close to Xu Ling's ear and blew gently on her rosy earlobe. "Don't you find it exciting?"

Xu Ling's body softened, and she was led into the wing by him in a daze.

On the other side, Lu Huanxiu learned that Lv Yiyi had come to the capital and immediately rushed to the inner city area, where he met Yang Jia's family head, Yang Xie.

"Brother Yang, Lv Yiyi had deep enmity with you in the past. Now that he's come to the capital, that woman Zhang Mudie might not care about the bigger picture. If Lv Yiyi instigates her to be your enemy, you might have some trouble. Lv Yiyi's daughter is only twenty-five years old and has already reached the pinnacle of her strength. His disciple, who is only twenty-two, has also successfully advanced and is said to have good talent in alchemy. He has already caught the attention of the Furious Jiao Gang. If you don't take the initiative in a few years, you might find yourself at a disadvantage!"

Lu Huanxiu incited.

It was he who had betrayed Lv Yiyi's whereabouts in exchange for benefits in the past. If something happened to Yang Xie, he would be the next unlucky one.

Moreover, he had been ambushed and had his leg broken before, suspecting it was Zhang Mudie who had arranged for someone to do it.

It made him unable to hold his head high even at the Martial Arts Academy.

"Zhang Mudie doesn't concern me, and I'm not worried about Lv Yiyi's daughter and disciple. Furious Jiao Gang won't cause trouble over a talented member like them," Yang Xie said with indifference.

If he had truly wanted to eliminate them, he wouldn't have waited until now. The conflict with the Lv family in the past was merely a matter of interests. Furthermore, he had promised the Zhang family and the head of the Martial Arts Academy to spare the other members of the Lv family, so he couldn't easily change his mind.

"Brother Yang, are you really..."

"No need to say more."

Yang Xie interrupted Lu Huanxiu.

"But..."

"Please leave."

"Since Brother Yang doesn't care, I've been overly concerned. I'll take my leave," Lu Huanxiu was angry in his heart but dared not show it. He turned and left.

"Shameless scoundrel," Yang Xie said disdainfully. Lu Huanxiu had repeatedly betrayed even his own senior brother, making him a despicable character. He didn't want to waste any more words on him.

For him now, apart from reaching the Saint realm, nothing else could stir his heart.

As for the Lv family seeking revenge, they were welcome to come.

He had nothing to fear.

Half a month later.

A shocking piece of news swept through the entire capital like a hurricane.

The leader of the Furious Jiao Gang, Grandmaster of the Five Qi realm, Shangguan Yunfei, was actually taking a practicing martial artist as his personal disciple and grooming him as his successor.

This news sent shockwaves through all the major factions, as they inquired and learned the name of this person: Han Zhao.

Among the lower-ranked martial artists, envy and jealousy ran rampant, with many wishing they could take his place.

The name Han Zhao had become widely known and recognized.

The Furious Jiao Gang, as a top faction with Martial Saints among its ranks, was an elite force. Becoming the junior leader of the Furious Jiao Gang was like ascending to the heavens!

As for Han Zhao, who was at the center of the media whirlwind, he had already boarded the Furious Jiao Gang's warship and was heading downstream to Furious Jiao Island at the mouth of the South Zhan Sea.

"Junior Leader, we're approaching Furious Jiao Island."

As the Furious Jiao warship prepared to dock, Water Shocking Wind reported.

Han Zhao stood on the deck, gazing at the island in the distance.

At a glance, he saw the rolling hills on the island, with a vast expanse of buildings clustered in the central mountain range.

According to Water Shocking Wind, Furious Jiao Island covered an area of thirty thousand acres.

The entire Furious Jiao Gang had thousands of members, all martial artists. In addition, there were as many as twenty thousand family members, all gathered along the banks of the Changlin River.

The cities on both sides of the river enjoyed peace and stability thanks to the presence of Furious Jiao Gang's family members.

The area near Furious Jiao Island was the true stronghold of the Furious Jiao Gang. Even the city's military orders were ineffective without the consent of the top Furious Jiao Gang members.

After docking, Han Zhao stepped onto Furious Jiao Island. He would likely be staying here for several years.

His alter ego, shrouded in a black robe, followed closely behind him.

Currently, the Furious Jiao Gang was divided into two major factions to avoid conflict, so Han Zhao had to keep his identity concealed. After all, he had killed the Furious Jiao Gang's Deputy Leader, Qian Luohai, and his brother Qian Luoshan was highly respected within the gang.

"It seems that the heavily injured Shangguan Yunfei can no longer control the other faction."

Han Zhao recalled Water Shocking Wind's warning and contemplated inwardly.

Let them fight, the fiercer the better.

When he, as the "Junior Leader," emerged and quelled the turmoil, he would be able to smoothly ascend to the position of the gang leader.

He would gladly accept a centuries-old major faction like this.

"Water Commander, please lead the way. I want to see just how strong the Furious Jiao Gang's martial artists are!"

Han Zhao strode towards the central mountain range.