Chapter 290 shows his gun skills, which are spooky, terrifying in talent, and shocking to Liu Qing!

Located in the southeast of the island, this place is shrouded in mist, with lush bamboo groves and a tranquil atmosphere. A stream flows quietly, and fragrant grasses grow abundantly. Venturing a little deeper, one comes to a pavilion.

A stone tablet stands by the roadside, inscribed with the three characters "Qingxinju" (清心居). The melodious sound of a zither can be heard emanating from within.

Yan Hao used his light-footed skill to reach the outside of Qingxin Residence. Seeing the gate open, he walked deeper in, passing through an elegant pear orchard, and arrived at an inner courtyard. There, he saw Shi Yufei in a stone pavilion, sipping tea and listening to music, looking relaxed and carefree.

Following the sound of the zither, one sees a pond, which has been carefully arranged and is quite elegant. In the middle of the pond are artificial hills, lotus flowers, and golden carp. Beside the pond is a scenic hall with an incense burner inside. Behind the burner is a screen with exquisite embroidery.

The melodious sound of the zither emanated from this place.

Yan Hao tiptoed towards the stone pavilion. Just then, the music finished, and Shi Yu strode quickly to the screen, saying, "Lord Chu..."

Chu Liuqing said indifferently, "No need to be so formal, just call me Liuqing." Shi Yufei had intended to address her by the honorific "Cult Leader Zhu," but upon hearing Chu Liuqing's words, he felt a pang of disappointment. Her words seemed intimate, but were actually distant. Chu Liuqing truly looked down on him.

He smiled and said, "Good morning, Miss Liu Qing!"

Chu Liuqing walked out gracefully. She wore a hollowed-out conical hat with a white veil hanging from the edge, completely covering her figure. As she walked, the white veil swayed gently, occasionally revealing her skirt and embroidered shoes... arousing endless imagination.

Shi Yufei had experienced many ups and downs, climbing his way up from the bottom to the top. His temperament was extraordinary. Upon seeing Chu Liuqing appear, he immediately stepped aside, willingly avoiding her sharp edge and becoming her foil.

Upon hearing this, Yan Hao finally understood: "I had just arrived here when I heard Venerable Chu playing the zither, so I assumed that the two of them had already met. Venerable Chu was inviting Chief Envoy Shi to listen to the music. But... it turns out that Chief Envoy Shi didn't dare to disturb Venerable Chu's enjoyment, so he waited quietly until the music finished before going up to greet him."

Yan Hao said, "Miss Liu Qing!"

Chu Liuqing nodded slightly. She walked gracefully towards the stone pavilion, with Shi Yufei and Yan Hao following behind. Chu Liuqing sat down and said, "I am extremely grateful to General Shi for lending me his residence, allowing me to stay comfortably for nearly a month."

Shi Yufei and Yan Hao both sat down in the stone pavilion. Shi Yufei smiled and said, "The Candle Sect is in disarray, with its followers scattered everywhere, becoming disloyal and alienated. The Water Altar can be considered a place of refuge, and thanks to its natural terrain, it can provide shelter for its followers, which is the best thing that can be done."

Chu Liuqing said, "Chief Envoy Shi, this is very inappropriate of you. You must never mention the Candle Sect lightly. If others hear this, they might mistakenly think that our Candle Sect is nothing special."

Shi Yufei said with bright eyes, "Miss Liu Qing... the situation has changed drastically recently. Does the Candle Sect intend to rebuild its glory, revitalize its power, and compete for supremacy in this chaotic world?"

Chu Liuqing said, "Difficult! Difficult! Difficult! Do you know why the Candle Sect was destroyed back then?"

Shi Yufei said, "Back then, the Candle Sect was surrounded by enemies all over the world, besieging our sect and causing its downfall." Chu Liuqing said, "That was an external factor. If the members of our Candle Sect had united as one and fought together, how could we have been so easily destroyed?"

Chu Liuqing said, "The real difficulty... is that the position of sect leader has been vacant for too long. Without a leader, there are no established rules. Many outlaws have joined the Candle Sect, making the sect a mixed bag, and people's hearts are turned away."

"When a whale falls, all things are born... The Candle Sect is destroyed, and sparks are scattered across the land. Some people wash away their past and establish their own sects, which are developing rapidly. Others cherish the glory of the Candle Sect and lie low, plotting their own schemes."

"But the latter are decreasing day by day, while the former are ambitious. Under such circumstances, how can education be restored?"

Shi Yufei also found it difficult. Chu Liuqing sighed, "The Candle Sect has been destroyed..."

"There are many causes, but the most important one is..."

"Without a truly exceptional talent to shake the heavens and subdue the four seas, one could inherit the position of sect leader. The vacancy of the sect leader leads to a surge in internal conflicts and mutual discontent. If such a person could emerge, take control of the Candle Sect, captivate its followers with his talent, and astound the world with his martial arts, then even the most difficult problems would naturally be resolved!"

As she spoke passionately, her beautiful eyes welled up with tears. A formless and shapeless figure appeared in her mind, blurry and indistinct, perhaps herself, or anyone else, or perhaps it didn't exist at all. She thought, "If such a person really exists, even if I were..." She composed herself.

Shi Yufei shook his head and sighed, "Yes, such a person is hard to find even once in a long history. Even if he does appear, he may not be one of the people of our Candle Sect."

As the two were talking, Chu Liuqing raised an eyebrow and looked towards the bamboo forest path. Li Xian arrived late, having already caught up to the outside of Qingxin Residence. Upon seeing the "Qingxin Residence" stone tablet, she stopped to wait, considering that chasing into the residence might be counterproductive. So she stepped back and walked several miles along the road, waiting at a distance.

Chu Liuqing raised an eyebrow and said, "It's that kid."

Shi Yufei asked in surprise, "Why is he here?" Yan Hao cupped his hands and said, "Chief Envoy Shi, Miss Liu Qing, this young man made a bet with me a while ago. Today is the agreed date, and he came to the pavilion to find me."

"I was afraid of wasting time, so I ignored it. I didn't expect him to be so persistent and eventually find his way here."

Chu Liuqing said, "Then go and chase them away."

Shi Yufei said, "Wait a minute. Since this boy dares to come after us, perhaps he has some ability to win?"

Chu Liuqing shook her head and chuckled, "I think it's pointless." Shi Yufei said, "Miss Liuqing, you probably have nothing interesting to do here. Why don't we invite her in? Since it's a bet, let her show her skills. If she embarrasses herself, I'll kick her out?"

Chu Liuqing frowned slightly and nodded lightly, saying, "That's fine too."

Yan Hao gathered his qi and called out, "Hey kid outside, come in."

The rustling of bamboo leaves around them spread like waves, reaching several miles away. This demonstrated Yan Hao's powerful inner energy, but Chu Liuqing secretly shook her head. While the vibrations certainly indicated impressive inner energy, they also revealed his lack of skill in martial arts and the looseness of his energy circulation. She knew Yan Hao was proficient in the Five Elements and didn't demand too much, but she couldn't help but underestimate him a little.

Upon entering the residence, Li Xian took in the scenery and thought to himself, "What a refreshing and elegant abode!" He then bowed and greeted Shi Yufei, Yan Hao, and Chu Liuqing. When he asked about "Chu Liuqing," he paused slightly, not knowing her name or background.

Shi Yufei smiled, preparing to introduce Chu Liuqing. Chu Liuqing said calmly, "Chief Envoy Shi, my name is not something that irrelevant people need to know."

Li Xian thought to himself, "This woman must be an arrogant and powerful figure, and she looks down on me. Oh well. I'm just an unknown servant, and I don't dare to expect others to value me." He maintained his polite demeanor throughout.

Yan Hao asked knowingly, "Hua Wucuo, what brings you here?"

Li Xian said, "This disciple remembers the bet made by the Vice Envoy and has been keeping a close watch on things. I dared not delay and ended up here in a daze. If I have disturbed your discussion, I will take my leave now. I hope the Vice Envoy and the Envoy will not be offended." He knew that since Yan Hao had let him into the house, the bet was about 80% done.

Yan Hao said, "I took the bet from back then as a joke and didn't want to delve into it. Now that you have the Broken Demon Spear, you shouldn't be arrogant and impatient, but rather you should concentrate on practicing. Even if you don't master the technique, nothing would have happened. But today you've come looking for it anyway."

"Since that's the case, and you value it so much, I won't treat it lightly. Since it's a bet... there should be rewards and punishments. If you win, I'll teach you the Five Elements Escape Technique. If you lose, there should be a punishment. Tell me, what is this punishment?"

"If you are afraid, or feel that your skills are not yet proficient, you can withdraw now. I will pretend that this never happened. There is no need to feel ashamed about this matter. The nature of the Remnant Spear is special. Many elders have failed to master its secrets."

Li Xian pondered for a moment, knowing that Yan Hao was extremely proud of his Five Elements Mystic Escape Technique and all his unique skills. At this moment, the punishment should be extremely severe, otherwise it would be seen as underestimating the Five Elements Mystic Escape Technique and suspected of trying to get something for nothing. Such petty tricks could not be played. He said solemnly, "This disciple is willing to offer his life as a bargaining chip."

Yan Hao was taken aback. Seeing Li Xian's sincere desire to learn, and considering his humble origins and the rare opportunity he had to risk his life for, he felt he deserved admiration. His anger subsided slightly, and he said, "What use is your life to me? Whether you live or die, what use are you to me? Here's what we'll do. If you lose, you will be at my command for thirty years."

Li Xian readily agreed, "Okay!"

Chu Liuqing's interest was piqued. As she drank her tea, her beautiful eyes scrutinized Li Xian. She was surprised by his handsome appearance, which was quite rare. She thought to herself, "This young man has some cultivation. Coming from humble origins, he must possess some courage. It's a pity he doesn't know the difference between light and heavy. He thinks he has achieved some mastery of the Remnant Demon Spear technique. But he doesn't realize he's just imitating without understanding, going astray without realizing it. How can a peasant like him possibly figure out the intricacies of martial arts in the world in just over a month?"

Yan Hao said, "Have you thought this through? This matter is no longer a child's play." Li Xian replied, "This disciple has already thought it through."

Shi Yufei laughed and said, "You have guts. Since I am the judge, Hua Wucuo, you should show me your Canwang spear technique. If there is anything commendable in your spear technique, I can help you reduce your punishment a little."

Li Xian bowed and thanked him. Reaching a more spacious area, he calmed his mind. Yan Hao said, "Let's begin." Li Xian took out his Peach Blossom Spear and casually twirled it, stretching his muscles.

After a moment of building momentum, he unleashed the spear techniques he had comprehended. Completely absorbed in the spectacle, Li Xian disregarded everyone else and thrust out two more spears in quick succession, utterly lost in the moment. The moves were unremarkable, revealing nothing of the true essence of the Remnant Demon Spear. The Remnant Demon Spear had been lost for a long time; Shi Yufei, Yan Hao, and Chu Liuqing had never seen it before. They only knew that the spear technique was eerie, extremely strange, and incredibly powerful. But they did not understand its true meaning or its essential principles.

They watched as Li Xian unleashed several spear strikes, but saw no extraordinary martial arts skills or eerie aura. They all thought, "It seems this kid truly hasn't grasped the essence. He's here to try and slip through the cracks, to take shortcuts."

Chu Liuqing's eyes revealed understanding, as if she had expected this. A hint of disdain flashed in her eyes.

Li Xian remained calm and composed, his mind completely absorbed in the painting as he tried to display his skills. Ignoring the three men's suspicions, he began to wield his spear. The Peach Blossom Spear flew and thrust with incredible speed and ferocity, his movements graceful and unrestrained. Chu Liuqing, Yan Hao, and Shi Yufei couldn't help but think that if it were only about appearance and physique, this martial art would indeed be eye-catching, but unfortunately, it was merely a showy display and would never be considered refined.

Suddenly, Li Xian's spear stance changed abruptly, thrusting out with a move called "Swift Wind and Resilient Grass," possessing the momentum of a swift wind while also incorporating the resilience of resilient grass. Chu Liuqing and Shi Yufei, both martial arts experts, though unaware of the true form of the Broken Demon Spear, could already discern its extraordinary nature. Their curiosity grew, and they wondered if Li Xian, though perhaps failing to grasp the essence of the Broken Demon Spear, might still gain some insights by chance.

Yan Hao, growing impatient, was about to interrupt. Shi Yufei stopped him. Seeing this, Yan Hao realized the situation was different and focused his attention even more intently. Li Xian, completely absorbed in the lingering demonic image, was oblivious to everything else.

turn out to be

This fragment of the Demon Spear exists in the blueprints. If Li Xian wants to fully demonstrate the spear technique, he must first establish a stance. Just as in refining elixir, one must first build a tall building and set up the furnace, then establish the stance before refining the elixir. Similarly, when he presents the painting, he must first depict the environment, creating atmosphere, before gradually moving on to the main topic.

Li Xianlian displayed several spear techniques, including "West Wind Brings Cold," "Old Tree and Crow at Dusk," and "Weary Figure," revealing his exquisite spear skills. There was no eerie atmosphere, only a desolate scene that transported the viewer to a painting. His diligence was rewarded by Heaven, and his grasp of the essentials of spear techniques was impeccable.

Shi Yufei exclaimed "Eh!" Chu Liuqing was slightly surprised, and Yan Hao's martial arts were, though slightly weaker, were already quite impressive. The three exchanged glances, their curiosity growing even stronger.

Li Xian followed the natural flow, his spear moving swiftly, unleashing the "Probing the Grass to Startle Ghosts" move, possessing a wondrous effect that could terrify ghosts. It was like a calm lake being disturbed by a boulder. Shi Yufei exclaimed in surprise, "This is truly the Remnant Demon Spear!" Even though Li Xian's spear technique was not yet refined, he grasped the essence of this move.

The desolate and barren scene was suddenly filled with ghostly energy. Li Xian unleashed the "Broken Crow and Devastated Moon" move again, the ghostly energy becoming even more powerful. The tip of his spear sliced ​​through the air, emitting the mournful cries of crows, sending away disaster and misfortune. This move was the watershed moment for the Broken Demon Spear; once this move was over, each subsequent move was more ferocious than the last, like a demon wielding its spear.

Li Xian's aura shifted again; his composure and calmness vanished, replaced by an arrogant and unrestrained arrogance. Shi Yufei exclaimed with delight, "Excellent! Excellent!" He had initially thought Li Xian was greedy and always losing in the gamble, so his desire to recruit him into the Candle Sect had faded. But seeing him shine so brightly today, displaying his extraordinary talent, his former greed and arrogance transformed into a willingness to fight. His desire to recruit him intensified.

Shi Yufei laughed and said, "Deputy Envoy Yan, do you think this spear technique can win the bet?" Yan Hao shook his head and laughed, "I underestimated him. If he really has this ability, I will pass on my ultimate technique to him. But in the art of martial arts, he is self-taught and can truly master the Crippled Demon Spear technique. However, even if I sincerely teach him my ultimate technique, he may not be able to learn even a fraction of it."

Shi Yufei laughed and said, "That's right. How could there be such a genius in the world, proficient in everything? Miss Liuqing, what do you think?" Chu Liuqing was silent for a moment, her beautiful eyes slightly furrowed. Recalling her past evaluations, which may have been somewhat biased at the time, she said lightly, "Judging solely from this set of spear techniques, this boy is indeed quite good."

As they talked, Li Xian's spear technique grew increasingly fierce, showing no signs of stopping. The Demonic Remnant Diagram progressed from the surface to the core, from shallow to deep.

He suddenly thrust diagonally, the tip of his spear plunging into the pool. Several loud splashes rang out, and ripples spread across the water. White mist rose around them as Li Xian smoothly executed the "Wraith Playing in the Water" technique.

A mournful wail echoed around them, and ghostly figures were reflected in the pool. Chu Liuqing's beautiful eyes flickered; Shi Yufei and Yan Hao had already stood up. Shi Yufei exclaimed, "We underestimated him!"

Yan Hao exclaimed in surprise, "There is actually someone in this world who can be so compatible with the Remnant Demon Spear? He can wield it so skillfully, could it be that he has already... already achieved minor mastery!"

Chu Liuqing frowned and said, "Judging from this power... he has indeed achieved minor mastery. Did he really obtain the Remnant Demon Spear a month ago?"

Shi Yufei said, "It seems that Hua Wucuo is indeed unique! Let alone the Remnant Demon Spear Technique, even ordinary basic martial arts are extremely difficult to master within a month!"

Yan Hao said, "In that case, it is indeed fate. Ordinary elders would be frightened by the ghosts in the painting when they see the Broken Demon Painting, but this boy is unharmed."

Wherever Li Xian's spear thrust, a thick fog of ghostly mist arose. He resembled a rampaging, vengeful ghost, but lacking an opponent to retaliate, his full power could not be displayed. Moreover, he only demonstrated his "spear technique," without deliberately showing off or displaying any of his other abilities.

He retreated, swinging the butt of his spear towards the ground. This move is called "Hanging Upside Down on a Branch." In the surviving image, several living figures are depicted hanging upside down from tree branches. This spear technique evolved from this.

He followed up with another move, "Disembowelment," and the Peach Blossom Spear flew out, exiting the Tranquil Abode and snapping dozens of green bamboo stalks in half. After exhausting its momentum, it used the elasticity of the bamboo to bounce the Peach Blossom Spear back.

Li Xian caught the spear. At this moment, Chu Liuqing and the others were all surprised and puzzled. Li Xian practiced spear fighting diligently and made rapid progress, all thanks to his hard work. Now that he had shown his skill, he no longer needed to be reserved.

As he wielded the spear again… the spear's aura was overwhelming, almost like a ghostly illusion. It wasn't just a minor mastery of spear technique; it already possessed considerable spear essence. Shi Yufei exclaimed, “Rare! Rare! Rare!” Yan Hao said, “Impressive! Impressive! Impressive!”

Chu Liuqing exclaimed, "Strange! Strange! Strange!"

After the dance was finished, Li Xian tilted his spear downwards, bowed to the three men, and waited quietly. A moment of silence fell over the surroundings.

Shi Yufei said, "Excellent marksmanship!" Yan Hao laughed and said, "Good! Hua Wucuo, you are very skilled. You have won the bet! I, Yan Hao, keep my word. If you have time, go to the Martial Pavilion to find me again. The Five Elements Mystic Escape... feel free to ask me for guidance. I will not hold back, but how much you can learn depends on your comprehension."

Li Xian said happily, "Thank you very much, Vice Envoy Yan! Thank you very much, Envoy Shi!" Shi Yufei secretly gave him a wink. Li Xian, being very clever, then said, "Thank you very much, Senior Liu Qing!"

Chu Liuqing frowned and said, "Who gave you permission to call me senior?"

Shi Yufei said, "Miss Liu Qing, his address of 'senior' is indeed correct."

Chu Liu glanced at Shi Yufei indifferently, then asked Li Xian, "What is your name?"

Li Xian said, "My surname is Hua, and my given name is Wu Cuo." Chu Liuqing said, "You have practiced the Remnant Demon Spear before?"

Li Xian said, "I have never practiced it. After obtaining the Remnant Demon Map, I kept the bet firmly in mind and dared not forget it, so I have been pondering it diligently."

Chu Liuqing frowned and pondered, "Strange, very strange. Could it be that this country bumpkin truly possesses extraordinary talent?" She then asked, "Where are you from?"

Upon seeing this, Shi Yufei was secretly delighted. He smiled and looked at Li Xian, urging him, "Just tell the truth."

Li Xian said, "I am from the poor Heavenly Palace."

Chu Liuqing said disappointedly, "Yu Nan Dao is a poor and remote place, with no powerful forces or famous clans."

These were powerful families, each occupying a specific area. While their strength was formidable, their reputation was limited to the local area and thus could not be described as "renowned."

Li Xian remained silent. Shi Yufei said, "Although he comes from humble origins, he has mastered the Broken Demon Spear to such an extent, demonstrating remarkable talent. He is exactly the kind of person my sect needs."

Chu Liuqing hesitated, scrutinizing Li Xian for a long time. His appearance and demeanor were both quite remarkable. She then asked, "What was your original background?"

Li Xian found it strange and answered truthfully, "I came from an ordinary hunter's background." Chu Liuqing said, "You embarked on the path of martial arts, and had some extraordinary encounter?"

Li Xian said, "Yes."

Chu Liuqing walked down from the stone pavilion and circled around Li Xian. She was tall, but still only half a head shorter than Li Xian, and her graceful steps carried a delicate fragrance.

She hesitated in her heart: "If this boy really mastered the Remnant Spear in just one month, he would indeed be extraordinary. In that case, giving him that item wouldn't seem like... an insult?"

"But his humble origins are a major disadvantage. If the Demon Spear happens to be destined for him, otherwise his true nature will be revealed. Wouldn't that ruin me?"

She was lost in thought.

Shi Yufei watched silently, knowing that Li Xian was experiencing a great opportunity. If he could receive this favor, he would soar to great heights. He had come from humble beginnings, struggled for decades, and gradually came to understand the truths of the world, thus climbing upwards.

But at this moment, he is willing to help Li Xian.

He said, "The Broken Demon Spear is a replica of the Demon and Monster Spear, Hua Wucuo... Since you have a connection with the Broken Demon Spear, you must also have a connection with the Demon and Monster Spear. Your future achievements are limitless!"

Li Xian said, "Thank you for your kind words, General Envoy."

Shi Yufei said, "Haha, just telling the truth." Yan Hao smiled and nodded.

Chu Liuqing raised an eyebrow, knowing that these words were meant for her. She nodded secretly, feeling regretful, but considering the "Demon and Monster Spear," she could grant him the "Candle Order."

Chu Liuqing's attitude softened, and she said, "Come find me here again in three days."

Li Xian was bewildered but could only agree. Chu Liuqing, Shi Yufei, and Yan Hao were still talking when Li Xian took his leave and returned to Qingniu Residence, where he could finally breathe a sigh of relief.

Nangong Liuli hurriedly inquired about the situation. Li Xian told her the truth, and Nangong Liuli exclaimed, "Oh! Brother Wucuo...you wouldn't...you wouldn't be joining the Candle Sect, would you?"

Li Xian said, "The Candle Sect? I also feel that the woman has a great connection with the Candle Sect. But she's keeping it all very mysterious."

Nangong Liuli said, "The Candle Sect... was once a [forbidden demonic sect]. Every single one of its members was a great demon. The Candle Sect is even more ferocious than the Flower Cage Sect, but... this is not up to you or me."

Li Xian sighed, "Let's take it one step at a time."

Li Xian got what he wanted and felt relaxed. He stole half a day of leisure and spent half a day entwined with Nangong Liuli. The two became more and more familiar with each other, but Nangong Liuli couldn't help but feel shy whenever they worked together.

The next day…

Li Xian revisited the inner island to visit Yan Hao. Yan Hao was very kind and knew that Li Xian wanted to study there. The bet was settled, and Yan Hao kept his promise, having prepared two books, titled "The Fundamentals of Qi Dun" and "The Foundations of the Five Elements." Both were basic doctrines, but they were annotated and filled with his insights, and would not be sold anywhere else.

Yan Hao said, “The Five Elements Mystic Escape involves a great deal of knowledge. While you can master martial arts simply by moving your hands and feet, the Five Elements Mystic Escape is different. You need to learn a great deal, and you must lay a solid foundation. If you find it too time-consuming and want to give up halfway, that’s fine too. You have a bright future ahead of you, so seize the opportunity and you can achieve great things. If you are also interested and willing to spend time learning it, feel free to come to me if you have any questions or difficulties.”

Li Xian was truly puzzled by the phrase "limitless future." But having obtained the "Five Elements Foundation" and the "Treatise on Extraordinary Escapes," he hurried back to the Green Ox Residence to study them.

Nangong Liuli was quite knowledgeable, and her family also possessed similar books. However, she had never studied them. Li Xian, without reservation, studied them with Nangong Liuli, pooling their wisdom.

When they encountered something they didn't understand, they would discuss it with each other. They would each share their thoughts, summarize their ideas, record them in a book, and then Li Xian would ask Yan Hao about it.

That night, they talked late into the night by candlelight. They thoroughly studied the Five Elements and gained much. Li Xianchu began to understand the arrangement of the Five Elements, their wondrous and unpredictable applications… he found them profound and captivating.

[Minor Five Elements Mystic Escape]

[Proficiency: 1/100]

[Description: Qimen Dunjia utilizes the transformations of the Five Elements to create complex and ever-changing formations.]

...

The third day arrived in the blink of an eye.

(P.S.: Requesting monthly votes... I've recently climbed the monthly vote rankings. If I get a lot of votes, I'll see how it goes and try to update more frequently when I have time.)

(End of this chapter)