Chapter 188, Section 187: I was born to ascend the peak, to inquire about martial arts from the high tower.
Seeing this, Peng Lianyun became even more anxious. He feigned a look of delicious enjoyment, as if to say: "It really is delicious, everyone must believe me!"
Li Xian said, "It seems that Brother Peng has a great fondness for this kind of food."
The assembled prodigies could no longer contain themselves and burst into laughter. Peng Lianyun's face turned ashen, his brows twitching with rage, knowing it was impossible to hide his anger any longer. He had held a position of high rank since childhood and had never been laughed at before.
A wicked thought suddenly arose in his mind: "I'm making a fool of myself, but you won't get away with it either!" He gathered his inner energy, faced Li Xian, and was about to spit out the rotten stuff in his mouth.
The two were about ten feet apart. Li Xian was already on guard and rushed forward to pinch his lips. Her internal energy surged, shaking the rotten thing back into her abdomen.
"you!"
Caught completely off guard and unable to resist, Peng Lianyun felt the putrid substance slide into his stomach, causing him extreme nausea. In fear and anger, he staggered back several steps, opening his mouth to curse. As soon as he opened his mouth, the stench spread far and wide.
Everyone covered their noses and frowned.
Peng Lianyun looked around, bewildered and at a loss. He glanced out over the lake and saw that powerful families, martial arts sects, and ordinary people were all watching.
Such ugliness is enough to kill him.
Extremely ashamed and enraged, his blood boiled and his inner energy surged, and he assumed a desperate stance. But a moment later, he suddenly clutched his stomach, lay on the ground in agony, and foamed at the mouth.
turn out to be…
These rotten shrimp have become poisonous; ordinary people would die if they ate them. However, the bodies of martial artists who consume these shrimp are refined by the essence of heaven and earth, making them extremely resistant. If they taste something amiss, they can simply spit it out without any harm.
But Peng Lianyun, to save face, endured the bitter stench and chewed for a long time. By this time, the poison had already entered his body, but the poisoning was not severe and the symptoms were not obvious. He then swallowed the rotten shrimp.
The poison was compounded, and the symptoms appeared instantly, causing unbearable abdominal cramps.
He was nearly unconscious and had no fighting ability left.
A few moments later, he began to convulse, breaking out in a cold sweat that soaked through his luxurious clothes. He mumbled incoherently, and the situation was extremely dangerous.
He was so angry that his blood and qi were disordered, which caused the poison to be delivered to his heart meridian.
A prodigy named Zhang Xiao strode out quickly. With nimble steps, he lifted Peng Lianyun onto the table and pushed him from behind. Peng Lianyun coughed up the rotten contents of his stomach.
However, some of the poison had already spread throughout his body. Zhang Xiao checked his pulse, his brow furrowing and relaxing, already knowing how to treat it. He casually untied the jade belt at his waist and took out ten golden needles.
His movements were swift as the wind, and his needlework was natural.
A moment later, Peng Lianyun's condition stabilized, but his lips were still dark purple, indicating the poison hadn't subsided. Zhang Xiao said, "Brother Peng has been poisoned. Although the poison isn't fatal, he won't be able to participate in this grand banquet."
Zhang Xiao arrived at the building and called out loudly into the open space, "Please send someone by boat to bring Brother Peng back so he can recover from his injuries."
Li Xian praised, "As expected of the Golden Needle Divine Physician Young Master Zhang, a doctor with a benevolent heart and superb skills. I have long admired you."
Zhang Xiaowen smiled gently and said, "Brother Li, I've long admired you."
...
...
Peng Lianyun was taken away by boat. The farce was over, and everyone took their seats to continue enjoying the food. After a stick of incense had burned, several dishes were served one after another.
Although the onlookers were far apart and could only listen and watch, it was by no means boring. Each dish contained many fascinating stories, insights, and knowledge. The talented individuals present also displayed their skills, making the meal a spectacular experience and showcasing their own talents.
They talked freely and in a harmonious atmosphere.
Each displayed its own unique style.
As a result, more and more people gathered around the pond and lake, including both local residents and travelers from the martial arts world. The joy and excitement were beyond words.
Peng Lianyun was sent to Longmen Tower.
Peng Shan, the leader of the Seven Mountains Sect, expelled the poison by massaging his back. After being given an antidote, his complexion gradually improved and he regained consciousness.
Peng Lianyun roared, "I'll fight him to the death!" Recalling all the embarrassing moments, he was furious. Peng Shan said calmly, "Lianyun, you've already left the stage, don't embarrass yourself any further."
"Father!" Peng Lianyun said, "It is a small matter for your son to suffer humiliation, but it is a great matter to dishonor the sect's reputation. If we do not avenge this humiliation... how... how can we stand here?"
Peng Shan remained silent, gazing at the lake. Seeing the water as smooth as a mirror, rippling in concentric circles, a strange sight suddenly appeared:
Two figures clashed in the water mirror, both using basic martial arts, yet their performance was exceptionally brilliant.
The crowd gasped in astonishment.
Two voices echoed across the pond. They spoke only of basic martial arts techniques: Eagle's Wings Fluttering, Eagle's Plunge, Tiger's Claw Strike…
With each sound, the reflection in the lake changed. It seemed as if the two voices were fighting in the lake's shadow.
"Father, what's going on?" Peng Lianyun asked.
Peng Shan said, "When people discuss martial arts, their voices echo across the lake. This lake is quite special; when people's words contain profound martial intent, they can resonate with the lake, turning verbal battles into a fight on the lake's surface."
Upon hearing this, Peng Lianyun became even more furious. Such a grand event was no longer something he could participate in.
"Don't overthink it." Peng Shan shook his head and said, "Not every martial arts contest can cause the lake mirror to resonate and reveal a battle reflected in the lake. The contestants need to have a near-perfect level of martial arts skill to create such a scene. Even though you are in the arena, your basic martial arts skills are only barely at the advanced level. While they are not bad, they are not enough to create a spectacular scene reflected in the lake."
"Of course... you've suffered such a great loss. If there's a chance, I'll help you get it back myself."
...
...
The commotion here was felt most keenly by the elites of the Celestial Tower, who cried out in surprise.
"Although the move used by Hu Ying is only a simple Eagle Claw Hand, its offense and defense are well-balanced and close to perfection, making it invincible."
"That opponent was no weakling either; his moves were direct, fierce, and powerful."
"It is Wang Kun, who is ranked third on the Heroes List, challenging Zhou Shijie, who holds the top spot. Both of them have extremely powerful moves, which affect the artistic conception of the lake."
...
Before long, the lake's reflection paused, then fell silent; the battle was over. However, the onlookers, and even the proud scholars in the tower, could not discern the outcome, nor did they know who had won or lost; they were as if in a dream.
Zhang Xiao saved Peng Lianyun, but being a kind-hearted person, he was afraid of offending Li Xian afterward, so he took the initiative to offer a toast to show his goodwill. Li Xian readily responded, and the two became friends after a few exchanges.
"Brother Li, is it a draw?" Zhang Xiao asked.
"No, it was Zhou Shijie who won a great victory."
Li Xian said, "Zhou Shijie's eagle claws went down, and Wang Kun, not to be outdone, used the move 'Tiger Raises Its Head,' with his fist pointing upwards. This attack seemed to be evenly matched, but in reality, the outcome was already decided."
"After Zhou Shijie's Eagle Claw, he still had the potential to transform from a carp to a dragon, with countless variations in his subsequent moves. Although Wang Kun was powerful and intentionally concealed his abilities, the situation changed rapidly during the fight. As he kept hiding his strength, he found that he had no room to maneuver. Seeing his predicament, he conceded defeat."
"In short, one still has strength to spare, while the other is already in a dead end. If it were a life-or-death struggle, with Wang Kun fighting desperately, the outcome might be different. But in this friendly martial arts contest, he has already suffered a crushing defeat!"
Zhang Xiao pondered it and realized it made sense. But he didn't dare to believe it completely and continued to think about it.
A moment later, Wang Kun's voice drifted across the lake: "Brother Zhou is truly remarkable. This top spot is rightfully yours. If anyone covets it, they'll have to ask me, Wang Kun, first."
He truly admitted defeat and was sincerely convinced of his superiority.
This grand spectacle ignited the competitive spirit of all the prodigies. One after another, they challenged the martial arts masters, causing ripples to spread across the lake's surface.
The banquet at the multi-story building was a feast, not a contest; it was a display of talent, with verbal discussions taking precedence. It showcased the demeanor of exceptional individuals. The event was in full swing, a truly lively and extraordinary affair.
Li Xian frowned in thought: "Madam ordered me to stir up trouble, but I don't know what her intention is. All the geniuses in this building have powerful backers and connections. I alone am all alone, with no one to protect me."
"But since I'm already here, I might as well climb the tower and test my skills! Don't I want to meet some of the city's most talented individuals?"
Li Xian was young and impetuous!
The banquet was not yet halfway through when Li Xian bowed to the people on the second floor to say goodbye, and then casually went upstairs.
On the third floor were Luo Bu'er, Li Ruhu, and others. The layout of the floors was similar, except that the bronze cauldrons contained more wine, and the aroma was stronger. It was also "Dream a Thousand Times," but it was older and had a more mellow taste.
Luo Bu'er was savoring fine wine. He had been debated about martial arts by several people, but no one could solve his martial arts puzzle. His arrogance soared, and seeing someone else ascend the tower, he sneered, "Fine, someone else wants to debate martial arts. If you know what's good for you, I advise you to obediently go down. Otherwise, you'll become a laughingstock."
Li Xian glanced at it, but didn't stop, heading straight for the fourth floor. There was nothing wrong with climbing a building to inquire about martial arts. However, Li Xian's decision to leave the building was a huge loss of face for everyone.
Li Ruhu, who lived in the same building, immediately shouted angrily, "You brat, how arrogant!" He then threw the wine in his cup at Li Xian.
Li Xian blew a powerful breath, his lungs surging with energy. Having honed his "Iron Body" martial arts, he possessed a pair of iron lungs, perfectly suited for this purpose. The wine splashed back.
Li Ruhui raised an eyebrow, not to be outdone, and picked up his wine glass, flipping it forward with incredible speed. He caught all the wine in mid-air, returning it to the glass perfectly intact, not a drop spilled.
The fourteen prodigies on the third floor slammed their fists on the table and stood up, shouting, "Boy, you look down on us?!"
Li Xian asked in surprise, "When did I say I looked down on you guys?"
"You skipped over the third floor and went straight to the fourth. You mean you don't take us seriously!" the crowd said angrily.
Li Xian said, "You must first secure a place on the third floor before asking about the fourth floor. Only then will it be considered respectful to you."
"You!" The crowd was furious, but they couldn't find fault with him.
Li Xian chuckled and said, "Very well, then I'll challenge you to a martial arts contest. Please, Brother Li, teach me." He pointed to Li Ruhu, who had just made his move. His humble demeanor gradually faded.
Li Ruhu's face was grim, and he coldly agreed. A debate about martial arts... seemingly a verbal exchange, but in reality, it was far from simple.
Li Ruhu stood with his hands behind his back, speaking eloquently.
He planned out the sequence of moves beforehand and described them verbally:
First, master the "Ten Forms of Dragon Soaring," then apply the many basic and extraordinary skills of the hands, elbows, and legs. Explain the level of each martial art, how it is meticulously structured, how it proceeds step by step, and how the moves flow smoothly and logically.
Take one step, anticipate at least three steps ahead.
Li Ruhu is the head disciple of the "Dragon Tiger Martial Arts School." He is a prominent figure among the younger generation, and his reputation is earned through his skillful fighting. He has a large number of defeated opponents.
His voice echoed across the lake, drawing admiration from the martial artists. He had previously fought the prodigy, and although he had lost, the reason for his defeat remained a mystery. It seemed he was only half a step behind, and with a little more effort, he could catch up.
Today I heard a discussion about martial arts. I learned that even in a fight, there are subtle calculations, calculated moves, and psychological battles. Only then did I suddenly realize the gap in skill levels, and I lost all confidence.
The martial arts practitioners couldn't help but wonder: "How should we deal with this wicked lieutenant, Li Xian?"
They all looked over.
Li Ruhou asked arrogantly, "In that case, what is your explanation?"
How should this be solved? The geniuses were also deep in thought.
Li Xian said seriously, "Resolve it with your fists."
"Hahahaha." Li Ruhu said smugly, "You are indeed a lad from the county, with a rather shallow understanding. I used the Dragon Soaring Ten Forms to fight you, and set up three traps. You used your fist techniques to deal with them, which meant you stepped straight into the traps. You are indeed straightforward."
He immediately explained the details of the moves.
“When I attack like this, you still counter with your own fists. Your old momentum has dissipated, and no new momentum has emerged, so you will inevitably stop and defend yourself. At this point, I will do this and that again, and in this fight, you will have already lost.”
"But it won't be revealed for a while. I need to use three more moves before you can vaguely detect the clues, but by then it will be too late."
Having said that, he casually demonstrated. These were all basic martial arts techniques, and the underlying rule of "discussing martial arts" is to discuss them based on "basic martial arts." Once one enters the realm of advanced martial arts, the profound mysteries are revealed, and the key points within cannot be clearly explained in words. Therefore, they are not included in the "discussion of martial arts."
Luo Bu'er and the others all agreed that this made sense. They silently gestured in their minds and all felt that Li Ruhu had already won a great victory.
Li Xian said, "That's not the case. The moves you used seem to flow naturally and proceed step by step. In fact, they can all be neutralized by fist techniques, even the most basic Four Directions Fist, which can easily dispel them."
"The three traps you just set are not really traps. I only need to do this and that, and with one set of punches, I can naturally break all your moves."
It explains the principles of breaking the pattern, how to use the same set of boxing techniques and similar moves to defeat Li Ruhu's moves.
"That's utter nonsense!"
Li Ruhu retorted angrily, "What you just said is simply impossible to achieve with basic boxing techniques that have reached a high level of mastery or even perfection. What's the point of discussing martial arts with such nonsense? Or are you saying you've already reached the pinnacle? Heh heh."
As soon as these words came out.
Lin Aoshan, inside the Dragon Gate Tower, also frowned slightly. Li Xian was right; the method to break the curse made some sense, but it required an extremely high level of mastery of basic boxing techniques. There were 180 sets of basic boxing techniques in the prefectural city, but very few people could truly master them.
Diligent study can lead to mastery.
With good natural talent, and after ten years of consistent effort, he can be considered a [minor achievement].
Great success depends on both circumstances and one's character. As for "perfection," it is extremely rare.
The city is teeming with exceptional talents, and with diligent practice, it's not impossible for any of them to reach the [Perfect] level. However, the time and effort required would far outweigh the gains.
Even basic martial arts techniques have inherent flaws.
To achieve perfection requires filling in the gaps, making it even more difficult. As for [reaching the pinnacle]... even martial arts that reach the pinnacle, while not necessarily extremely powerful, are absolutely extremely rare!
Some dare to claim "perfection." But who dares to say they have "reached the pinnacle"?
Gu Nianjun gazed at the lake, sipping her tea. Zhou Shijie, infatuated with her, had gone to great lengths to invite her to a banquet at the top of the building, intending to showcase his own talent. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, Gu Nianjun's gaze fell more on Li Xian.
He thought to himself, "Wenwu is no child's play. Such nonsense is just asking for trouble. After all, he is Prince Xiaofan. If necessary, I should lend him a hand."
"But he's too flamboyant. How can he go far on the path of martial arts? I'm afraid he'll never become a true hero, and he'll never truly impress me."
Suddenly at this moment.
A sound rippled across the lake: "Young friend Li Xian, we invited you to the banquet, not so that you might cause trouble. You had better promise that you're not talking nonsense, otherwise my Cao family will have to invite you for some tea."
The elders of the Cao family seized the opportunity to launch an attack.
(End of this chapter)
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