Chapter 1013: Zhang Lan
Chapter 1013: Zhang Lan
Elder Zhang turned his head and gave him a cold stare.
The blue-robed cultivator's scalp immediately went numb. He quickly straightened his clothes, bowed, and apologized, "My junior has been rude."
Elder Feng smiled kindly.
Elder Zhang said, "The young one is impolite, Elder, please don't blame him."
"It's nothing..." Elder Feng waved his hand, examined the blue-robed cultivator for a moment, and asked, "And this is..."
The blue-robed cultivator bowed and introduced himself, "Junior, Zhang Lan."
"Zhang Lan..."
Elder Feng pondered for a moment. Seeing his blue robe, his dignified appearance, his carefree yet composed demeanor, and his young age, yet already possessing the cultivation base of a Golden Core, Elder Feng was amazed and praised,
"A person whose name matches his talent, a brilliant and unconstrained young man with a vast and profound mind. The Zhang family truly produces outstanding talents..."
Elder Zhang waved his hand dismissively, "Brother Feng, you flatter him. This kid has always been unruly, and he never behaves properly wherever he goes."
Of course, while he said this, a hint of satisfaction flashed in his eyes.
Zhang Lan, this kid, he had watched him grow up.
Previously, he had only thought that Zhang Lan was lazy and reckless, lacking discipline in his actions, and would never amount to much.
But after going out for some training, experiencing something unknown, he had become much more composed and could focus on his cultivation. His progress was rapid, and he had not wasted his exceptional talent.
Elder Feng poured tea for Elder Zhang.
The young attendant also respectfully stepped forward and refilled Zhang Lan's cup.
"Please have some tea," Elder Feng said, making a 'please' gesture.
Elder Zhang nodded, "Thank you."
The two elders continued their conversation, discussing the changes in sects, past friendships, the culture of Qianxue Prefecture, and the origins of Tianjiao.
The other members of the Zhang family stood quietly by, listening attentively.
Zhang Lan also listened respectfully with his head bowed, but his heart couldn't help but stir with emotions.
Mo Hua?
Did he hear correctly just now? The Tianjiao of Qianxue Prefecture, the leader in array formations, was... Mo Hua?
Zhang Lan found it hard to believe.
This was the Mo Hua he knew...
In the vast Qianxue Prefecture, where noble families gathered and sects stood tall, even upper-tier cultivators were a dime a dozen, and Tianjiao roamed freely... How could he, of all people, rise to prominence here?
And it wasn't just any ordinary rise; he had reached the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment, possessed nineteen-patterned apex divine sense, and suppressed the four major sects to become the leader in array formations...
This was too far-fetched, even in novels, such a plot would be considered bold.
Zhang Lan frowned, his mind filled with doubts:
"Same name, same surname?"
"Could this Mo Hua be the Mo Hua I know?"
But something didn't feel quite right...
It was too much of a coincidence to have two 'Mo Hua' and for him to encounter both.
Moreover, Elder Feng had mentioned that this 'Mo Hua' had powerful divine sense, excelled in spells, and was skilled in concealment...
This clearly described Mo Hua, and not just any Mo Hua, but an upgraded, no, a top-of-the-line version.
But to say that these two Mo Hua were the same person...
Zhang Lan found it hard to believe.
The more he thought about it, the more unbelievable it seemed.
"I'll find an opportunity to see if it's really Mo Hua..."
Zhang Lan thought to himself.
On the other side, Elder Zhang and Elder Feng continued their conversation.
The path of cultivation was long, and a cultivator's life was equally lengthy. With the vastness of the Nine Prefectures, the distant mountains, and the long roads, many old friends on the path of cultivation often went decades, centuries, or even longer without meeting.
Many relatives and fellow cultivators, without realizing it, had already met for the last time in this life.
Time passed slowly, and one could never predict the twists of fate, life, and death.
If they met again in the future, they might not have the chance to see each other, and could only pour a cup of thin wine at their grave as a token of consolation.
Therefore, when old friends reunited, they couldn't help but talk more than usual.
Gradually, after years of separation, the conversation became more animated.
Elder Feng, feeling nostalgic, sighed, "The Feng family and the Zhang family have been friends for generations. Back then, you and I studied together in Qianxue Prefecture, and we shared the same aspirations. We even reached the stage of forming our Nascent Soul at around the same time. Now, you have already ascended and become an Immortal, while I, this old bone, am still struggling at the late stage of Nascent Soul. I truly feel ashamed..."
Elder Zhang shook his head, "Brother Feng, you're too kind..."
"The ways of heaven are constant, and the cycle of fullness and emptiness is predictable. Misfortunes and blessings have their appointed times, and no one can predict the twists and turns of one's cultivation journey."
"All we can do is to do good deeds and not worry about the future."
"When the time is right, success will come naturally. If the time isn't right, then we must continue to cultivate. Live and cultivate until old age, and let the rest happen as it may."
"Whether it's success or failure, fortune or misfortune, it's not within our control..."
Elder Feng savored these words for a long time, his emotions gradually settling. He nodded and said,
"Brother, you speak the truth. It's my impatience speaking..."
The two elders continued to share their insights on cultivation.
Elder Zhang shared his experiences of ascending, explaining them in detail, his knowledge and words were endless.
Elder Feng listened intently, benefiting greatly from the conversation.
Unknowingly, the night deepened, and Elder Feng suddenly realized the time. He apologized, "I'm getting old, and once I start talking, I can't stop. I almost forgot that you've traveled a long way, and you should have rested earlier."
"For cultivators, a little fatigue is nothing," Elder Zhang said.
But despite his words, Elder Feng couldn't possibly be truly oblivious.
"The guest rooms are prepared. Please take a rest for now."
"Tomorrow, at noon, I will take all of you to the Swordsman Competition Congress to witness this grand event of Qianxue Prefecture and the brilliance of Tianjiao..."
Elder Zhang nodded, "Thank you."
Then, the young attendant led everyone to their respective rooms.
The members of the Zhang family thanked Elder Feng one by one.
After traveling for so long, they were indeed exhausted, and as soon as they lay down, they fell asleep.
Zhang Lan was also tired, but upon hearing the name "Mo Hua," he couldn't sleep, tossing and turning on the bed, his thoughts racing.
It was like this until the next morning when he got up.
If it were a regular day, Elder Zhang would have scolded him for his laziness.
He would have told Zhang Lan that cultivators cultivate their flesh, essence, and spiritual power, but also their spirit, energy, and mind.
Without a calm mind and controlled energy, how could one focus on the Dao? But considering that they were guests of the Feng family and had indeed endured a long journey, Elder Zhang held back his words.
Moreover, there was an important matter to attend to today.
They were going to witness the Swordsman Competition Congress.
Elder Feng had prepared a feast with spiritual delicacies and fine wines to welcome Elder Zhang and the members of the Zhang family, a gesture of hospitality.
After that, the group headed towards Lundao Mountain.
Along the way, the roads were bustling with traffic, and Elder Feng described the famous scenic spots and grand mountain courtyards of Qian Xue Prefecture.
Occasionally, a cultivator would soar into the sky, causing the clouds to churn.
The Zhang family's disciples were awe-struck.
Even Elder Zhang, the head of the Zhang family, couldn't help but marvel, "Our Zhang family is a fourth-grade aristocratic family. In the Canglan Prefecture, we are the dominant force, with over ten Feathered Immortals in our clan. We can be considered a major power in this region."
"But compared to Qian Xue Prefecture, where Feathered Immortals fill the sky, we are like a small fish in the presence of a whale when compared to the powerful aristocratic families here."
"Elder Feng, there's no need for modesty..." Elder Feng shook his head. "Qian Xue Prefecture is indeed a rare and vast prefecture. Even among fifth-grade prefectures, it is the most outstanding."
"Moreover, as the saying goes, 'A strong dragon does not oppress the local snakes.'"
"In Qian Xue Prefecture, no matter how many or how powerful the aristocratic families are, they are limited to this region."
"Unlike the Zhang family, which dominates one side."
There were many fourth and fifth-grade aristocratic families in Qian Xue Prefecture.
However, when something becomes too common, it tends to lose its value.
Many ordinary fifth-grade aristocratic families in Qian Xue Prefecture might not have the power and influence of the ancient fourth-grade aristocratic families that ruled over remote areas in the Nine Provinces.
The saying, "The higher the emperor, the farther the reach of power," holds true.
This was the principle.
Therefore, although the Zhang family was fourth-grade, they might not be considered a strong dragon, but they were a powerful "local snake," and the only one dominating the region.
In Qian Xue Prefecture, the Zhang family might not be significant.
But once they returned to their territory in Kan Zhou, their commands might be more effective than the official documents of Dao Ting Si.
The cultivation world is vast, and having more friends means more paths to follow.
Even without a personal relationship, Elder Feng and Elder Zhang would not dare to neglect the Zhang family.
Moreover, the Zhang family was a fourth-grade aristocratic family with a state limit.
Within the fourth-grade prefecture, the Zhang family had no Dongxu cultivators.
However, this did not mean that there were no Dongxu cultivators from the Zhang family in other fifth-grade prefectures, various clans, or famous mountains and rivers.
It was just that the Zhang family kept a low profile and didn't reveal this information.
On the way, the two elders exchanged pleasantries and chatted about the prosperity of Qian Xue, and after an hour, they arrived at Lundao Mountain.
At this time, Lundao Mountain was filled with cultivators.
The place was bustling with voices, and as they entered the mountain, they felt like they were immersed in a sea of people, which was awe-inspiring.
"Please follow me, Elder Zhang."
Elder Feng led the way, with Elder Zhang and the others following behind.
"It's quite a coincidence..." Elder Feng said as he walked, with a hint of pride in his tone, "Today, the Xiao Yao Gate also has a disciple from my Feng family participating in the Swordsman Competition. He is the one with the best spiritual root and the highest comprehension among my family's younger generation."
"His opponent is from one of the Eight Great Gates, the Tai Xu Gate. In the Tai Xu Gate, there is the sword genius Ling Hu Xiao, and also..." Elder Feng continued, referring to the person he had mentioned earlier, "The Zhen Dao champion who likes to play with low-grade techniques and has talent but lacks virtue, Mo Hua."
"Oh?" Elder Zhang's eyes lit up, and he nodded. "If that's the case, then this trip is indeed worthwhile."
Then he turned to the group of Zhang family disciples and admonished them:
"I brought you to Qian Xue Prefecture to let you witness this Swordsman Competition Congress and see what it's like when the true geniuses compete."
"You are considered to have some talent within your clan, but when compared to the vast Nine Provinces and the prosperous Qian Xue region, your talents are like a firefly in the vast sky, not worth mentioning."
"There are always greater talents out there."
"You must maintain humility, observe carefully, and learn diligently."
His words were primarily directed at several talented Foundation Establishment disciples of the Zhang family's younger generation.
Zhang Lan, a Golden Core cultivator, was not included in this group.
But when Elder Zhang spoke, his peripheral vision glanced at Zhang Lan, obviously hinting at him.
"Yes, Elder Zhang."
The Zhang family disciples all bowed respectfully.
Zhang Lan had a complicated expression but could only follow suit and bow along with the others.
Upon hearing that the Feng family's genius was going to compete with "Mo Hua" in the Swordsman Competition, Zhang Lan felt a surge of anticipation, but at the same time, he also experienced a strange sense of tension.
The spectator platform for the Qian Xue Swordsman Competition was enormous, with multiple layers.
At this moment, the platform was filled with cultivators.
Different cultivators had their designated areas.
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There were separate areas for foreign cultivators, foreign aristocratic families and sects, local cultivators, local aristocratic families, elders and disciples of various sects in Qian Xue, and even special VIP areas in the high towers.
The place was crowded, but the divisions were clear.
The Feng family was an aristocratic family from Xun Zhou, considered a foreign family, but they had close ties with the Xiao Yao Gate, sharing cultivation techniques and even exchanging resources. Due to this relationship, the Feng family had a designated viewing area on Lundao Mountain.
Elder Feng led Elder Zhang and the others to the Feng family's seats, and they all took their places.
Elder Feng then ordered someone to serve them with fruits and tea, treating them with great hospitality.
Elder Zhang expressed his gratitude, and then everyone sat peacefully, drinking tea while waiting for the Swordsman Competition to begin.
After three rounds of tea, a flash of light suddenly appeared in the sky.
A Fangtian Huayin, spanning the heavens and earth, unfolded like a giant ink painting in front of everyone.
The Zhang family members looked up in awe, deeply impressed.
Such a massive spiritual equipment was indeed a rare sight.
After a while, various colors gathered on the Fangtian Huayin, revealing the terrain and the genius disciples.
"It's starting..."
Elder Feng said.
As expected, the situation on the Fangtian Huayin changed dramatically. Disciples from different sects fought and killed each other according to different competition rules, their sword lights intertwining and spells flying by, while some cultivators engaged in close combat, causing the ground to shake...
Different sects, different inheritances, and different geniuses together created a magnificent Swordsman Competition.
The Zhang family members watched with rapt attention, marveling at the spectacle.
Elder Zhang couldn't help but exclaim, "Qian Xue Prefecture indeed produces outstanding talents..."
Elder Feng nodded in agreement:
"This is the Xuan Character Swordsman Competition. The disciples who have advanced to this stage are not unknown, and they are considered the 'mainstay' in their respective sects."
"But these are just the appetizers; the real show is yet to come.
"Xiao Yao Gate, against Tai Xu Gate."
"The most talented disciple of my Feng family will compete with Tianjiao of Tai Xu Gate."
Elder Feng expressed his contentment.
Elder Zhang nodded, his anticipation growing.
Sitting behind him, Zhang Lan unconsciously became more tense.
The Swordsman Competition continued.
Elder Zhang and Elder Feng chatted casually.
But Zhang Lan was not in the mood to listen; he kept his eyes fixed on the giant Fangtian Huayin, waiting for the disciple to appear and confirm his suspicions.
After an unknown amount of time, the Swordsman Competition on the Fangtian Huayin came to an end, one by one.
The disciples participating in the competition also left the stage.
Finally, the Fangtian Huayin became blurry, the colored ink spread, and then a new scene appeared, showcasing another batch of competition rounds.
It also revealed the figures of another group of Tianjiao from various sects.
Elder Feng's face glowed with pride as he pointed at one of the scenes:
"Brother, among the group of white-robed Xiao Yao Gate disciples, the one leading them is my Feng family's Tianjiao, Feng Zichen."
Elder Zhang followed his gaze and indeed saw a white-robed youth standing with his sword, as graceful as the wind. His sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes exuded a youthful vigor and confidence.
"A graceful and extraordinary youth," Elder Zhang praised sincerely.
Elder Feng smiled and humbly said, "Brother, you flatter me too much."
As the two elders praised the Tianjiao of Xiao Yao Gate, Zhang Lan's gaze was drawn to the other side as if attracted by a magnet.
He looked at the opposite side of Xiao Yao Gate, at the center of the Tai Xu Gate team, a short but familiar-looking youth, surrounded and protected by his sect members...
His eyebrows and eyes were like a painting, clean and untainted by dust.
His eyes were like deep pools, bright yet profound.
His demeanor was amiable and lovable, exuding a sense of calmness, composure, and a hint of liveliness and cunning...
In an instant, Zhang Lan's scalp tingled, and his thoughts surged like boiling water.
"Mo Hua..."
Memories from Tongxian City flooded his mind like a tide.
The first time they met, that kid who was crouched in a restaurant, wearing simple clothes, exceptionally handsome, flipping through a difficult formation book, almost causing Zhang Lan to be unable to leave...
That little friend who drank and ate with him.
That mischievous kid who accidentally stumbled into the Black Mountain Fort and caused quite a ruckus.
That talented young formation master who helped those in need.
The two of them searching the mountains together, capturing rogue cultivators together, ambushing bandit cultivators together, and even setting up a formation to fight against a powerful demon together...
Countless memories flooded into his mind.
In these memories, the lively and lovable, yet quirky and unusual figure, repeatedly merged with the elegant young man on the Fangtian Huayin in front of him.
Mo Hua.
Zhang Lan's chest tightened, and his heart felt a twinge of sourness.
He never expected that after their parting in Tongxian City, he hadn't seen Mo Hua for a decade, and now they would meet again in such a manner.
Zhang Lan took a deep breath, feeling a bit incredulous.
He pinched his thigh hard.
It hurt.
This wasn't a dream...
Zhang Lan slowly relaxed.
Meanwhile, Elder Feng also began to mention Mo Hua:
"The strongest disciple of Tai Xu Gate is the swordsman at the front, Ling Hu Xiao."
"Ling Hu Xiao is a sword Dao genius rarely seen in the Chong Xu Gate for hundreds of years. Later, the three sects merged, and Tai Xu Gate gained a bargain."
"And behind Ling Hu Xiao, the shortest one is the 'Mo Hua' I mentioned earlier..."
"This child is extremely clever and has strong divine perception."
"His talent in formations is exceptionally high."
"Alas... his reputation is extremely poor..."
Elder Zhang was puzzled, "Why is his reputation so bad?"
Elder Feng explained, "He has a bad temperament and likes to play tricks on people with low-level spells. He's extremely cunning and often uses deceitful techniques to trap and annoy others with tricky spells."
"He has some talent, but his character is not visible at all."
"The worst thing is that this child loves to kill people with 'Fireball' and takes pleasure in it..."
"Such a thing..." Elder Zhang exclaimed, "This child is truly shameless."
Zhang Lan: "..."
If not for the difference in seniority, he would have spoken up for Mo Hua and cleared his name.
Could Mo Hua be such a person? Mo Hua...
Zhang Lan was slightly stunned, deep in thought, and then fell silent.
After much consideration, he discovered...
Mo Hua seemed to be... this kind of person? From his perspective, Mo Hua was a good kid, a good youth, but sometimes his actions were unconventional, causing headaches.
But from others' perspectives, he was just a 'headache.'
At this moment, it wasn't just Elder Feng who was speaking ill of Mo Hua. Zhang Lan perked up his ears and heard the surrounding cultivators expressing their indignation:
"This Mo Hua is truly despicable and shameless..."
"How many times has he used the Hidden Art? Can't anyone stop him?"
"A good Swordsman Competition has been turned into a game of hide-and-seek by him. Is this acceptable?"
"Indeed!"
"It's lamentable that until now, countless talented disciples and young heroes have fallen into the hands of this despicable person. It's truly hateful!"
"Can he use Fireball to burn Lu Xianzi's face too?"
"Someone come and kill this monster. I'll worship him as my big brother on the spot."
"If not a big brother, I'll worship him as my foster father..."
...
Zhang Lan's expression turned silent, and after a while, he remained speechless, but his mind was considering:
In the future, should I pretend not to know Mo Hua?
Just as he was thinking, the disciples took their positions, and the Swordsman Competition began.
Elder Feng's voice was filled with anticipation: "Mo Hua has truly made himself hated. Countless talented disciples have fallen into his hands."
"But today is different. This child's schemes will backfire, Brother Zhang..."
Elder Feng turned to Elder Zhang, his voice filled with enthusiasm:
"Today, let's see how my Feng family's Tianjiao will defeat him with a sword and win the applause of the audience."
Elder Zhang nodded with satisfaction: "That's great!"
Zhang Lan subconsciously shrank back, keeping his mouth shut, not daring to say a word.
(End of Chapter)
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