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Глава 137

“No…” Zhao Yan’s expression turned strange. “No… I have no use to you… Even without me, you could have accomplished everything you have today…”

Upon hearing these words, Wei Qi suddenly clapped his hands and laughed.

"Yan'er, you've gotten smarter." Wei Qi took a few steps closer, his eyes full of laughter. "I've never seen anyone as self-righteous as you. Looking at you, I just find it laughable, hehe..."

"Then why did you keep me by your side... What is your purpose..." Zhao Yan asked, forcing herself to maintain her last bit of strength.

Wei Qi's eyes were filled with cruelty. "Zhao Yan, Zhao Yan, actually, I've always thought that if you weren't by Madam Xi's side, I might have been able to save a lot of effort... Back then, it was you who told Madam Xi to find Lie Ying as her backer, wasn't it?"

Zhao Yan looked at him in horror and remained silent.

Wei Qi reached out and pinched her chin. "You're right. I don't need to use you at all. The position of Hero's Fortress Master is already mine. I only use you as a pastime. As for the Qi family... actually, as long as I use your life as leverage, my foolish second brother will naturally reveal the Qi family's whereabouts. Do you know why I went through so much trouble to have you lure him back to the Qi family?"

Zhao Yan struggled desperately, but to no avail.

“Because it’s not enough…” Wei Qi’s eyes were icy cold, “It’s simply not enough. Not just lives, I want you to lose everything, to suffer a fate worse than death… That’s what revenge is…”

Zhao Yan used all her strength to push him away and stepped aside.

"Don't be afraid," Wei Qi said with a smile. "I won't hurt you. You'll find it to be an interesting pastime."

He finished speaking and clapped his hands. A servant carrying a wooden box pushed open the door and came in.

He took the wooden box and placed it on the table.

“I have already interrogated the Qi family members. This wooden box doesn’t seem to be any of the ‘Nine Emperors’ Divine Artifacts.’ You can keep it; it can serve as a memento someday.” With that, he smiled and left.

Zhao Yan could no longer support herself and slumped down. She was no longer able to care about anything around her; all that remained before her eyes was a gray expanse.

Wei Qi stepped out of the room, feeling a sense of joy and pleasure.

Then, he looked up and saw Wen Jing standing not far in front of him, looking at him with a smile.

“As expected, heroes emerge from among the young,” Wen Jing said, “I have truly broadened my horizons today.”

Wei Qi smiled and said, "You flatter me, Island Master."

"You are too modest, Lord of the Fortress. To be able to dismantle the Qi family in such a way is truly a bloodless victory."

"Not at all," Wei Qi said modestly. "These trivial skills will not amount to anything great. If I want to achieve great things, I still have a lot to learn from the island master."

"You're too kind, Lord of the Fortress," Wen Jing said. "Now, with the addition of the Nine Emperor Artifacts in my possession, I have six divine artifacts. I wonder what your next move is?"

Wei Qi looked at Wen Jing, a flash of hostility crossing his eyes. He smiled and said, "Not far from here is the territory of the Yue Lan Sword Sect. I've long wanted to test the world-famous 'Seventeen Forms of Lan Sword,' and by the way, I'd like to ask Taiping City to act as a witness. I'll also need the Island Lord's help then."

Wen Jing pondered for a moment, then understood, "No problem."

Wei Qi and Wen Jing smiled at each other, but beneath those smiles lay something far too deep, unfathomable...

...

No plan whatsoever

The martial world has been in turmoil for days. Since Wei Qi, the eldest son of Hero's Fortress, took power, he has been supporting his cronies and constantly expanding his influence. Many martial arts sects, fearing Hero's Fortress's status, have submitted to him. At the same time, another piece of news has spread throughout the martial world: the Lian family of Divine Arrow has formed an alliance with figures from both the legitimate and illegitimate sides of the martial world to punish the traitorous Shenxiao Sect. The alliance members include the Shennong Family, the Seventy-Two Islands of the East Sea, the North Divine Palace of the South Sea, Xiufeng Village, Xuanling Dao, and Qufang, among others. There are even rumors that the young master of the most mysterious sect in the martial world, "Pofengliu," is also in this alliance. The leader of the alliance is the "Three-String Heroine," who recently stirred up a storm in the martial world. The alliance's momentum is naturally enormous, attracting many underworld figures to join them. For a time, a storm was brewing in the martial world. However, Taiping City, also one of the three major martial arts families, has remained silent.

Shi Le'er was extremely surprised when she heard this news. Equally surprised were Yue Huaijiang and Yue Huaixi, as well as everyone who knew Zuo Xiaoxiao.

"It's only been a few months, and Xiao Xiao has already become the leader of the alliance..." Yue Huaijiang exclaimed, "Truly unfathomable."

Yue Huaixi was utterly helpless. "If I had known it would turn out like this, I should have followed Xiaoxiao back then. Sigh..."

Shi Le'er frowned. "What's wrong? Is there something you're unhappy with about me?!"

The two immediately waved their hands, saying, "No, no, we wouldn't dare."

Shi Le'er raised an eyebrow, snorted, and continued watching the people practicing swordsmanship in the martial arts hall with a displeased expression.

Yue Huaijiang and Yue Huaixi exchanged a glance and changed the subject, saying, "Young Master Wei is truly gifted. He has only practiced this sword manual for a month, and he already looks quite good."

The person practicing swordsmanship in the martial arts hall was none other than Wei Ying. In his hand was the "Martial Spirit Overlord Blade," one of the "Nine Emperors' Divine Weapons." The "Martial Spirit Overlord Blade" emphasizes fierce and powerful swordsmanship, but in his hands, combined with the "Swallow Step" of Hero's Fortress, it possessed a unique elegance and grace.

Shi Le'er watched him wield the knife and said, "Even I could do that with a month of experience. What's so strange about it?"

Upon hearing this, the Yue siblings repeatedly agreed.

Shi Le'er knew in her heart that it was flattery. She had never practiced martial arts. When the old city lord was alive, he wanted to teach her martial arts, but her irresponsible parents strongly opposed it. Her father once told her: Why should a girl practice martial arts? Isn't it better to live a happy and carefree life? This kind of hard work of practicing martial arts is enough to torment men.

As a child, she thought her father was very considerate. But now, she didn't think so at all. Living happily and easily—it's not that easy! If she weren't ignorant of martial arts, she would have long ago spread the fame of Taiping City, unified the martial arts world, and dominated the land! Hmph!

Thinking of this, she felt displeased, and her face darkened.

She turned her head and said, "I'm going to collect the rent. You all keep a close eye on him and don't let him slack off."

The Yue siblings immediately and respectfully agreed, and watched her leave with utmost respect.

At this moment, Wei Ying had already gone through the sword technique once and slowly walked over to rest for a while.

"Young Master Wei, would you like some water?" Yue Huaixi asked solicitously, offering a cup of tea.

Wei Ying smiled and accepted it, saying, "Thank you."

"Young master, you're too kind. You must be tired after practicing for so long. Let me massage your shoulders?" Yue Huaixi said obsequiously, fidgeting with his fingers.

Wei Ying then realized the atmosphere was strange and repeatedly refused.

Yue Huaixi smiled and said, "Young Master Wei, it only costs ten coins for a massage, which is not expensive at all."

Wei Ying glanced at Yue Huaixi, whose eyes were shining, and then at Yue Huaijiang, who seemed used to it, before asking, "You... really owe three thousand taels?"

Upon hearing this, Yue Huaijiang and Yue Huaixi nodded sadly.

"I don't know when I'll be able to pay it all off..." Yue Huaijiang laughed and said.

Wei Ying recalled the voucher she had signed with Le'er, and her confusion deepened. "I still don't understand. Taiping City is a major power with abundant granaries, so why would Shi Le'er value money so much?"

Upon hearing this, both the brother and sister laughed.

"Young Master Wei, have you misunderstood something?" Yue Huaixi said with a smile.

“Le’er isn’t afraid of anything except being looked down upon. It’s a pity that she’s wearing gold and silver every day now, showing off her wealth too much.” Yue Huaijiang also laughed. “Young Master Wei, you’re not an outsider, so I’ll tell you the truth. It’s true that Taiping City covers a thousand acres and has everything. However, the number of diners in Taiping City is far more than three thousand.”

"You mean..." Wei Ying understood something, but dared not confirm it.

"After the old city lord passed away, Taiping City was already running a deficit. The city was full of martial arts practitioners, and how many people were willing to farm and grow vegetables to be self-sufficient? Wasn't Young Master Wei just here to eat and stay for free?" Yue Huaixi added, "When Le'er took over, there were only three hundred taels of silver left in the accounts, not even enough for the entire city's expenses for half a year. At that time, Le'er did a calculation for everyone in the city and even threatened that if anyone couldn't pay their debts, they would be kicked out of Taiping City and left to fend for themselves."

“Actually, Le’er doesn’t need to do this at all. Earning money to support the family is a matter of course, isn’t it?” Yue Huaijiang said with a smile. “Right, Xiaoxi?”

Yue Huaixi nodded, "That's right."

Upon hearing this, Wei Ying couldn't help but smile.

Yue Huaijiang smiled and said, "Young Master Wei, Le'er is cooperating with you ostensibly for the 70% of the profits. But this is a high-stakes gamble that Taiping City simply cannot afford to lose. Young Master Wei should know how much of this is profit and how much is friendship."

Wei Ying's smile remained on his face, but his grip on the knife tightened. Even if he hadn't understood before, he understood now. His past actions had been so naive. Responsibility, which he had once discarded like trash, now held a weight that brought him peace.

The three chatted amiably, and after their conversation, they began to spar. The training ground quickly filled with lively chatter. Everyone completely forgot their purpose. In high spirits, they even drank together, thoroughly enjoying themselves. Later, when Shi Le'er learned of this, she naturally gave him a scolding. Wei Ying also understood at this moment why the Yue siblings, such masters, were so subservient and respectful towards Shi Le'er. It was all because of the word "family affection," the purest sincerity in the world.

Looking at himself, his brothers had turned against him, and his family had broken ties with him. He felt even more desolate. However, at this moment, his determination grew stronger, and he was no longer confused. He wanted to defeat someone and take back what he had lost. With this belief, he gained confidence.

However, he never expected that day to come so soon.

...

At noon the next day, a disciple of the Yue Lan Sword Sect came to deliver a message. He said that a few days ago, Hero's Fortress had sent a challenge to the Yue Lan Sword Sect, demanding to challenge the legendary martial arts technique "Seventeen Forms of Lan Sword".

Since the new lord took over, Hero's Fortress has annexed many smaller sects and expanded its power. This so-called challenge is likely a way to put pressure on the Yue Lan Sword Sect. The current sect leader, Yue Yinhe, is deeply worried about this matter, fearing unforeseen circumstances. He has come specifically to seek help from his elder brother, Yue Yinfeng, who is in Taiping City.

Upon hearing this news, Shi Le'er was eager to try. She immediately summoned everyone in the city to the main hall to discuss the matter.

"Hmph, I thought Wei Qi was so clever, but he's really nothing special. Challenging Yue Lan, isn't that just giving Taiping City an excuse to take action..." Shi Le'er said happily as she sat in the hall, "Immediately mobilize troops to support Yue Lan's sword sect."

Upon hearing this, the messenger disciple of the Yue Lan Sword Sect said, "City Lord, this is inappropriate. Since Hero's Fortress has come to challenge us, if our sect does not accept the challenge, how will we maintain our standing in the martial world in the future? The sect leader sent his disciple not to ask Taiping City to take action, but simply to find the former sect leader to join forces and defeat our opponent."

Shi Le'er laughed and said, "Then I'll go and watch from the sidelines, is that alright?"

The messenger had nothing to say and could only agree.

Shi Le'er turned to look at Wei Ying beside her, "It seems our plan can be brought forward."

Wei Ying looked somewhat nervous, gripping the hilt of the knife at his waist, feeling a subtle excitement.

Just then, a deep voice came from the doorway, "Le'er, why didn't you tell me about something this big?"

Shi Le'er looked up and saw a group of people dressed as bodyguards striding in. Leading them was Li Zhenghai, the chief bodyguard of "Xingfeng Escort Agency".

“Uncle Li, how could Le’er forget you?” Shi Le’er stood up and smiled.

Li Zhenghai laughed heartily, then looked at Wei Ying sitting next to Shi Le'er, "I didn't expect you to get engaged so quickly. Uncle is really happy for you, hahaha!"

Upon hearing this, both Shi Le'er and Wei Ying froze.

Shi Le'er said with dissatisfaction, "Uncle Li, let's talk about serious matters."

Li Zhenghai stretched out his hand and said, "No need to say anything. Since the death of the three heroes of Hero's Fortress, Wei Qi has seized power, eliminated dissidents, and run rampant in the martial world, acting without any heroic demeanor. When I heard that Yue Lanjian sent someone to find you, I knew it was to deal with Hero's Fortress. What is there to talk about? My Xingfeng Escort Agency will fully support you without hesitation!"

After he finished speaking, the bodyguards behind him all echoed his words.

Inside the hall, a sense of heroic spirit immediately filled the air. At this moment, the belated siblings Yue Huaijiang and Yue Huaixi entered the hall. Yue Huaijiang carried a four-foot-long wooden box on his back, his expression unusually serious. He walked into the hall and said to Shi Le'er, "City Lord, Xiaoxi and I are both members of the Yue Lan Sword Sect, and we have an inescapable responsibility in this matter. My father just instructed that if Hero's Fortress truly intends to challenge the 'Seventeen Forms of Lan Sword,' then Xiaoxi and I will accept the challenge. Please allow us to break the rules and take action, City Lord."

Shi Le'er smiled, "That suits me perfectly. This time, I'm going to make Wei Qi lose convincingly."

After everyone had discussed and agreed on the plan, they rested and prepared for the next day, and then rode at full speed to the Yue Lan Sword Sect.

...

The Yue Lan Sword Sect is not far from Taiping City. They can travel at full speed, even overnight, and are certain to arrive in three days.

The forces from Taiping City were numerous and took some time to arrive. By the time they reached them, it was already the day of the martial arts competition, and the Yue Lan Sword Sect was already extremely anxious. They only breathed a sigh of relief when they saw them arrive.

Everyone rushed to the arena, only to find it deserted, with not even Yue Yinhe, the leader of the Yue Lan Sword Sect, in sight.

Just as everyone was filled with doubt, the disciples of the Yue Lan Sword Sect suddenly drew their swords and launched a swift attack.

This sudden turn of events caught everyone off guard. In the blink of an eye, several Yue Lan disciples had already placed their swords against Shi Le'er's neck.

"It's a trap..." Shi Le'er felt a chill in her heart when she realized it.

"Little Le'er, it's too late for you to know now."

Upon hearing this voice, Shi Le'er felt a chill run down her spine, and a strange fear welled up in her heart.

The Yue Lan Sword Sect disciples, who were carrying swords, made way for Wei Qi, who walked forward slowly with his hands behind his back. He wore a dark purple robe, the lapels and cuffs trimmed with silver thread, which shimmered. His expression was relaxed and leisurely, his smile gentle and refined, without a trace of hostility.

Upon seeing him, Wei Ying couldn't suppress the anger rising within her and was about to draw her sword. However, in that instant, she realized the situation around her and ultimately restrained her impulse.