Wandering Swordsman |

Combining the phrase "Qu Duan Hei Feng" (曲断黑风), Situ Dengfeng quickly deciphered its meaning: Qu Yifan was trapped by the Black Wind Gang, and Luo Wangchen had gone to the Black Wind Gang to rescue him, which was why he had sent someone to Jingtian Pavilion to relay the situation. Thinking of this, Situ Dengfeng's expression turned serious, his brows furrowed, and a sense of unease welled up within him.

He raised his head, his gaze sharp as he looked at He Yun and Zhao Xue, his tone carrying a hint of urgency: "Young man, young woman, besides us and your fallen brother, is anyone else aware of the message you've conveyed?"

Seeing Situ Dengfeng's serious expression, He Yun felt a little nervous, but he nodded firmly and replied, "Sect Leader, besides you and us, no one else knows about this."

Situ Dengfeng's expression relaxed slightly upon hearing this, but he remained vigilant. He let out a long sigh, his tone tinged with gratitude: "Young brother, young lady, I am truly grateful for bringing me such important news. If you don't mind the remoteness of my Jingtian Pavilion, please rest for a few days. After the martial arts tournament, I will arrange for someone to escort you back to the Sword Tomb."

He Yun quickly waved his hand and said humbly, "Sect Master, I have heard the legends of Senior Situ since I was a child. It is an honor for me to see Senior Situ in person. How could I possibly look down on him? Besides, I intend to stay a few more days to witness such a grand martial arts event. It would be a worthwhile trip to Jingtian Pavilion."

Situ Dengfeng smiled slightly, his tone tinged with emotion: "Back then, my exploits were just rumors in the martial arts world. Now, the martial arts world belongs to you younger generation. Your courage and wisdom far surpass mine back then."

Seeing Situ Dengfeng's humility, He Yun and Zhao Xue felt even more admiration for him. Zhao Xue said softly, "Sect Leader, then we won't disturb you any longer. Please get some rest."

After saying this, Zhao Xue and He Yun turned to leave. Just then, a woman's voice suddenly came from outside the door: "Father, are you there?"

Situ Dengfeng responded, "Meng'er, come in."

Upon hearing this, He Yun was immediately intrigued to learn that it was the legendary beauty of the martial arts world. Zhao Xue, standing nearby, was also very interested in Situ Meng, a woman whose name was widely known but whose face was rarely seen. So, the two of them quickly went outside, eager to catch a glimpse of Situ Meng's stunning beauty.

The study door was gently pushed open, and a woman's figure appeared in the doorway. He Yun and Zhao Xue happened to brush past her. She wore a light green long dress, as delicate and elegant as the tenderest willow leaves in spring. Her hair was tied up high, secured with a simple jade hairpin, which further accentuated her refined and ethereal beauty. Her face was like a painting, with exquisite features, skin as white as snow, eyebrows like distant mountains, eyes like autumn water, and lips like cherries. She seemed like a fairy descended from heaven.

He Yun and Zhao Xue stopped almost simultaneously, stunned by Situ Meng's beauty. Even a woman like Zhao Xue was captivated by Situ Meng's beauty, and couldn't help but feel a pang of envy.

Situ Meng's steps were light, as if she were walking on clouds, and each step exuded an indescribable charm that made people involuntarily fall for her.

Situ Meng slightly raised her head and saw He Yun and Zhao Xue, a hint of curiosity flashing in her eyes. She smiled gently, a smile as warm and friendly as a spring breeze. He Yun and Zhao Xue immediately felt a sense of peace and joy, as if all their worries had vanished.

Then, the fleeting moment of passing by vanished in an instant. Situ Meng entered the study, while He Yun and Zhao Xue were already standing at the door. The two could not forget the breathtaking beauty that had flashed before their eyes, and the same thought flashed through their minds: "This woman should only exist in heaven."

On the way back to the room, Zhao Xue couldn't help but ask He Yun, "Brother Yun, do you regret it? Situ Meng is so beautiful, you could have participated in the martial arts competition and become..."

He Yun smiled slightly, looked at Zhao Xue with gentle eyes, and said softly, "Ah Xue, why did you ask that question?"

Zhao Xue blushed slightly, lowered her head, and said softly, "Brother Yun, I just think that if you participate in the competition and get into the top three, you might win Situ Meng's favor, and then you will have a bright future."

He Yun stopped and gently took Zhao Xue's hand, saying firmly, "Ah Xue, Situ Meng is indeed beautiful, but in my heart, no one can replace you. You are the most important person in my heart. So don't overthink it."

Upon hearing this, Zhao Xue felt a surge of warmth in her heart, and her eyes welled up with tears. She looked up at He Yun, her eyes glistening with tears, and nodded gently.

He Yun smiled slightly, gently wiped away the tears from Zhao Xue's eyes, and said softly, "Ah Xue, no matter what happens in the future, I will always be by your side, protecting you and loving you. Although Situ Meng is beautiful, her beauty belongs to Jing Tian Pavilion and the martial arts world. But you are my only one."

After He Yun finished speaking, the two looked at each other and smiled, their tacit understanding and trust deepening even further.

The scene returns to Situ Dengfeng's study, where Situ Meng has left. In her place stands Situ Changkong, the senior disciple of Jingtian Pavilion, in front of Situ Dengfeng's desk.

Situ Dengfeng sat at his desk, his gaze steady, his tone carrying a hint of urgency: "Chang Kong, there's an urgent matter I need you to handle."

Situ Changkong immediately cupped his hands in a salute and respectfully said, "Sect Master, please give your orders."

Situ Dengfeng nodded slightly and said solemnly, "Go to Black Wind Mountain immediately to inquire about the whereabouts of Qu Yifan and Luo Wangchen. Once you have any news, send me a message by carrier pigeon. Remember to conceal your tracks and do not reveal your identity on the way. If you encounter any protectors or the leader of the Black Wind Gang, do not fight them. Stay as far away from them as possible."

Upon hearing this, Situ Changkong frowned slightly, but quickly regained his composure and nodded in response, "Disciple understands. The Black Wind Gang has grown increasingly powerful in recent years and acts with great secrecy. I will act cautiously and try my best not to attract their attention."

Situ Dengfeng nodded and continued, "Oh, and also, when you pass through Liaocheng, investigate a man called Master Ma. His identity is unknown, and he has many connections. Pay special attention to his movements and see if there's anything suspicious."

Situ Changkong nodded again, and said firmly, "This disciple will investigate carefully to ensure that no clue is missed."

A hint of worry flashed in Situ Dengfeng's eyes, and his tone became even more serious: "Also, the matter I instructed you to do is of utmost importance and must not be leaked. This matter concerns the safety of the martial arts world, so please remember it."

After responding, Situ Changkong's expression became even more serious. He cupped his hands in a salute and said firmly, "This disciple understands and will never fail the sect leader's trust."

Situ Dengfeng nodded, a hint of relief in his voice: "Changkong, you are my most trusted disciple. I entrust this matter to you. It concerns the Black Wind Gang, so please be careful and return safely."

Situ Changkong bowed again, turned and strode quickly out of the study. His steps were firm and swift, clearly showing that he took the matter entrusted to him by Situ Dengfeng very seriously.