Chapter 191

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It wasn’t that Ou Peng was entirely unwilling to assess Zhang Xiaohu’s aptitude; it was simply that, as the leader of the Piaomiao Sect, he was overwhelmed with countless responsibilities. How could he spare much attention for such seemingly trivial matters? Even Zhang Xiaohua, the boy who had saved his biological sister, was barely a blip in his memory—he could hardly recall his name.

It wasn’t due to any lack of intellect on Ou Peng’s part—on the contrary, his exceptional natural talent made it impossible for him to forget a name if he truly cared. The truth was, Zhang Xiaohua was, in Ou Peng’s eyes, a one-time tool—someone to thank and move on from, with no reason to pay further attention or expend effort remembering.

Now, as Zhang Xiaohu faced Yuan Xing on the stage, Ou Peng casually watched the match. But was it not worth sparing a bit of attention to gauge Zhang Xiaohu’s potential?

This was the mindset of Ou Peng as a leader. Thus, he took note.

At first, his thoughts mirrored those of the other disciples—Zhang Xiaohu seemed unremarkable, likely to be defeated and knocked off the stage in no time. However, after chatting briefly with Monk Changgeng, Ou Peng glanced back at the match and involuntarily let out a thoughtful “Hmm”. This was the second time he had shown such a reaction since Zhang Xiaohu stepped onto the stage. It happened at the exact moment Zhang Xiaohua noticed his second brother’s fighting style begin to change.

If Zhang Xiaohua could see it, then so could Ou Peng. Though their perspectives differed, they both recognized a shift in the tide.

As Zhang Xiaohu’s technique improved with each move, Ou Peng’s mood brightened. Observing the subtle details, he even had a fleeting thought: If I were to fight without inner force, could I execute Six Harmonies Fist as flawlessly as Zhang Xiaohu, finding opportunities amidst Yuan Xing’s chaotic onslaught of techniques?

At that moment, a deep appreciation for talent arose within Ou Peng. What defines a genius? This is it. With nothing but the most basic Six Harmonies Fist, taught by second-rate instructors at the Lotus Escort Agency, Zhang Xiaohu was able to hold his ground against the secret techniques of a Dalin Temple disciple from the Law Enforcement Hall. If word of this spread throughout the Jianghu, the Piaomiao Sect’s reputation would undoubtedly shine brighter, washing away any prior doubts or criticisms.

If the Piaomiao Sect didn’t value such a genius and didn’t place heavier burdens on him to nurture his potential, it would be an affront to the natural order!

Having this thought, Ou Peng raised his head and glanced at Wen Wenhai among the disciples. Wen Wenhai also noticed his master’s attention and the two exchanged a look, both nodding in agreement.

Wen Wenhai’s eyes lit up, understanding that his master had acknowledged Zhang Xiaohu. He couldn’t help but feel a surge of joy from the depths of his heart.

Monk Changgeng, who had not been paying much attention to the stage, noticed Ou Peng’s momentary lapse in composure and was startled. He quickly turned his gaze toward the platform. As a seasoned master and Ou Peng’s senior, Monk Changgeng immediately discerned the changes in Zhang Xiaohu’s boxing techniques. He couldn’t help but lament, realizing that if Yuan Xing had struck harder earlier, the match would have ended already. Now, it had become exceedingly difficult to secure a win.

Monk Changgeng coughed and said: “Congratulations, Sect Master Ou. It seems the Piaomiao Sect truly harbors extraordinary talent. To refine the Six Harmonies Fist for so many years and withstand such pressure without using inner force—Yuan Xing has clearly underestimated the heroes of the world.”

“Cough, cough.” Ou Peng couldn’t suppress a chuckle and clarified: “Ah, Elder, I should explain something. This Piaomiao Sect disciple is named Zhang Xiaohu and is one of our direct disciples.”

Monk Changgeng felt slightly reassured and said: “Hmm, not bad. Sect Master Ou has a good eye for talent, finding a disciple of such great potential. With years of training, he’ll undoubtedly make a name for himself in the Jianghu. But wait, I don’t recall hearing about this Zhang Xiaohu before.”

Ou Peng’s expression turned somewhat peculiar as he replied: “Elder, there’s been a bit of a misunderstanding. Zhang Xiaohu is a disciple of my student, Wen Wenhai.”

“Wen Wenhai’s disciple?” Monk Changgeng was stunned. “I noticed Zhang Xiaohu’s age. He doesn’t seem much younger than Wen Wenhai. Could it be that Wen Wenhai started taking disciples as a child?”

Ou Peng chuckled. “Not quite. Zhang Xiaohu wasn’t raised in the Piaomiao Sect from a young age. His situation is somewhat similar to that of your Yuan Xing. He joined the sect as an adult.”

Before Ou Peng could finish, Monk Changgeng interjected: “Oh? Then how did Zhang Xiaohu train in the Piaomiao Sect’s inner force techniques? Sect Master Ou, if you have any good methods, I hope you’ll share them.”

Monk Changgeng’s concern for Yuan Xing was evident. Upon learning that Zhang Xiaohu also entered the sect later in life, he naturally wanted to know how such a disciple could train in the sect’s inner force techniques.

However, Ou Peng smiled wryly and said: “Well, Elder, Zhang Xiaohu has only been in the sect for just over two months. He hasn’t started training in inner force yet, much like Yuan Xing’s situation. I haven’t decided on that matter yet.”

“Just two months!?” Monk Changgeng exclaimed in surprise. Then he asked: “And how long has he been practicing martial arts? Did he train in internal martial arts before joining the Piaomiao Sect?”

Ou Peng replied: “My disciple Zhang Chengyue just informed me that Xiaohu only began practicing martial arts last summer. As for inner energy, he trained for about two months using one of the most common techniques in the Jianghu before entering the Piaomiao Sect, where he stopped practicing it. Furthermore… to be honest, Elder, Zhang Xiaohu only knows this one set of Six Harmonies Fist. He hasn’t even started learning the Piaomiao Sect’s martial arts yet!”

“What?” Monk Changgeng exclaimed in shock. “He only knows this one boxing technique? No wonder on the platform, all he’s doing is repeating moves from the Six Harmonies Fist. I should have realized earlier.”

He sighed, shaking his head with regret. “How could such a talent fall into the Piaomiao Sect?”

Hearing this, Ou Peng felt a twinge of displeasure. “What’s that supposed to mean? You can find someone like Yuan Xing, but we can’t have someone like Zhang Xiaohu? Are we not allowed to have talents in the Piaomiao Sect?”

Forcing a smile, Ou Peng said: “Elder, even if he is talented, he’s already an adult. Without the chance to fully master inner energy, his potential is limited. Who knows what path this young man’s future will take?”

Monk Changgeng chuckled and said: “Sect Master Ou, you’re absolutely right. If you find him of no use, why not let him join our Dalin Temple? After all, he has only recently entered the Piaomiao Sect and hasn’t learned much yet. What do you think?”

Ou Peng said: “Elder, you are joking. Since he has already joined the Piaomiao Sect, He is a member of the Piaomiao Sect in life and a ghost of the sect in death. How could he switch to another sect? That would be absolutely impossible.”

Monk Changgeng smiled and said no more.

Meanwhile, on the platform, the match between Yuan Xing and Zhang Xiaohu had entered a new stage.

Although Yuan Xing’s techniques remained dazzling and unpredictable, Zhang Xiaohu continued to rely on the simple moves of Six Harmonies Fist. His attacks and defenses were balanced, leaving him entirely unshaken.

However, while Zhang Xiaohu’s strength and skill allowed him to hold his ground, they were not enough for him to take the offensive and secure victory.

Yet, for Yuan Xing to defeat Zhang Xiaohu was equally impossible.

After a few more exchanges, Yuan Xing deliberately revealed an opening and jumped out of the ring. He clasped his palms together and said: “We’ve fought for so long, and I’ve come to understand—you must only know one set of Six Harmonies Fist, correct?”

Zhang Xiaohu stopped his moves and replied with a smile: “Exactly.”

Yuan Xing nodded. “In that case, I must admit my defeat. Despite using so many techniques, I couldn’t overcome a single set of Six Harmonies Fist. You are better than me.”

Zhang Xiaohu responded: “A thousand forms and techniques, or just one—they are all martial arts. As long as it is a contest, there is no absolute victory or defeat. Don’t you agree, Master?”

Yuan Xing’s expression changed slightly, and he replied: “You’ve enlightened me. Very well, your name is Zhang Xiaohu, right? I’ll remember you. Today, we’ll call it a draw. If we have the chance in the future, let’s fight again!”

Zhang Xiaohu cupped his fists respectfully and said: “I couldn’t agree more. I’ll also remember your Dharma name, Yuan Xing. I look forward to our next meeting.”

With that, Yuan Xing jumped down from the platform and returned to the thatched pavilion.

Zhang Xiaohu also descended, met with thunderous applause and cheers from the Piaomiao Sect disciples, who all warmly welcomed him back.

Looking at the eager and admiring gazes of his fellow disciples, Zhang Xiaohu felt his eyes grow moist.

At that moment, whether it was the aloof disciples who previously refused to associate with Zhang Xiaohu or the opportunists who sought to curry favor with him, all of them reevaluated their opinion of him.

At that moment, the disciples of the Piaomiao Sect truly began to see Zhang Xiaohu as one of their own brothers, without the cold indifference or distance of before.

At that moment, the Piaomiao Sect disciples deeply admired their Great Sect Master, Ou Peng, for his extraordinary insight in recognizing a true hero.

While Zhang Xiaohu was being welcomed like a hero, Yuan Xing walked steadily back to the thatched pavilion.

Monk Changgeng asked with concern: “Yuan Xing, victory and defeat are commonplace in battle. Don’t dwell on it.”

Yuan Xing, however, clasped his hands in a respectful gesture and replied: “Thank you for your concern, Elder. Victory is defeat, and defeat is victory. How can the matters of the world be so clearly divided? My match with Zhang Xiaohu of the Piaomiao Sect was a great learning experience. I deeply appreciate the opportunity you’ve given me.”

Hearing this, Monk Changgeng was very satisfied. He waved his hand dismissively, signaling Yuan Xing to step aside.

No sooner had Yuan Xing returned to the group of monks than Yuan Kong jumped forward and exclaimed: “Uncle Master, Senior Brother Yuan Xing has already fought. Isn’t it my turn next?”

Ou Peng smiled and said: “Little Master, you’ve just had a match. Take a moment to rest. Zhang Xiaohua isn’t a disciple of the Piaomiao Sect, and the earlier match he participated in was part of the martial arts competition. Since he’s passed that round, I can’t decide for him in the matches to come. Regardless, we’ll need to hear Zhang Xiaohua’s opinion.”

Monk Changgeng looked puzzled and asked: “Zhang Xiaohua? That name sounds like he’s related to Zhang Xiaohu. How is he not a Piaomiao Sect disciple? And how is he eligible to participate in the martial arts competition?”

Ou Peng thought to himself: “If your Dalin Temple can get involved in the martial arts competition, why can’t Zhang Xiaohua, who is from Huanxi Villa?”

Nonetheless, he patiently explained the reasons for Zhang Xiaohua’s participation and his relationship with Zhang Xiaohu. Monk Chang Geng nodded repeatedly as he listened and said: “So, Zhang Xiaohua is Zhang Xiaohu’s younger brother. His talent must also be extraordinary, and his martial arts skills are likely excellent. I didn’t get a good look at his abilities earlier in the rush—I’d really like to see more. And while he isn’t a Piaomiao Sect disciple yet, he likely will be in the future. For this match, I believe he’ll heed your guidance, won’t he, Sect Master Ou?”

Hearing Monk Changgeng’s somewhat domineering words, Ou Peng smiled wryly and replied: “Elder, you’re absolutely right. I’ll go speak with him. However…”

Ou Peng shifted his tone and continued: “Your disciples have already sparred with the disciples of my Piaomiao Sect. After this match, do you have any other plans?”

Monk Changgeng, maintaining his stoic expression, replied ambiguously: “Let’s discuss that after this match.”

Helpless, Ou Peng signaled for Zhang Chengyue, gave him some instructions, and had him accompany Monk Yuan Kong back to Platform No. 1.

When the two jumped onto the stage, Zhang Chengyue also called for Zhang Xiaohua. Watching Zhang Xiaohua climb up with a face full of confusion, Zhang Chengyue smiled and said: “Zhang Xiaohua, I’m here under the Sect Master’s orders to inform you that your earlier match with Yuan Liao was the final round of your martial arts competition, and you’ve emerged victorious.”

Zhang Xiaohua exclaimed with joy: “Really? Is there a prize? Do I get it now?”

Zhang Chengyue shook his head. “The reward will come later. For now, I’ve called you up for another matter.”

Zhang Xiaohua nodded. “What is it? Feel free to say.”

Zhang Chengyue gestured to Yuan Kong beside him and said: “This is Young Master Yuan Kong, the senior brother of the Yuan Liao you defeated earlier.”

Zhang Xiaohua immediately cupped his fists in salute and said: “Greetings, Master Yuan Kong.”

Yuan Kong returned the gesture with a solemn clasp of his hands but remained silent.

Zhang Xiaohua felt puzzled and thought to himself: “This little bald donkey isn’t saying a word. He must have an issue with me. Did I somehow offend him?”

Zhang Chengyue continued: “This Young Master Yuan Kong, having seen you defeat his junior brother Yuan Liao, feels eager to test his skills and wants to challenge you to a match. What do you think? Sect Master Ou has said that if you don’t wish to accept, there’s no need to force yourself.”

Hearing this, Zhang Xiaohua secretly curled his lips in disdain and thought: “This is just the classic ‘beat the young one, bring out the elder.’ Only, instead of the elder showing up, they’ve sent someone even stronger. It’s clearly an attempt to avenge Yuan Liao and reclaim their dignity. Yuan Liao was already so formidable, so this senior brother of his must be even more incredible. I’m probably not his match. If we could end in a draw, I might stand a chance. But since Sect Master Ou said I could refuse, why should I look for trouble?”

He was about to decline when a thought suddenly flashed through his mind, startling him. “Wait a minute, something’s not right. If I truly didn’t have to accept, Zhang Chengyue wouldn’t have brought this little bald monk to the platform. Moreover, he specifically mentioned Sect Master Ou’s instructions—he must have meant the opposite. From the discussions earlier, I’ve gathered that Dalin Temple is a powerful sect that even the Piaomiao Sect doesn’t want to offend. Sect Master Ou likely couldn’t refuse them and sent me up here as a compromise. If I decline now, wouldn’t that damage Sect Master Ou’s reputation?”

Thinking it through, Zhang Xiaohua cupped his fists and said: “That Zhang… Uncle Master, I would like to have a match with this young master.”

Hearing this, Zhang Chengyue was overjoyed. He had been instructed by Ou Peng to persuade Zhang Xiaohua to accept the challenge but couldn’t make it too obvious. If Zhang Xiaohua had outright refused, it would have put him in an awkward position. Seeing Zhang Xiaohua so perceptive and cooperative saved him a lot of effort. He quickly added: “Zhang Xiaohua, this Young Master Yuan Kong is highly skilled, as you must have seen earlier in his victory. You must be even more cautious this time.”

After speaking, Zhang Chengyue didn’t leave the platform but stepped aside to stand in a corner, observing the match closely.

Seeing Zhang Xiaohua agree to the duel, Yuan Kong narrowed his eyes, assumed a stance, and prepared for battle.

However, Zhang Xiaohua, instead of getting ready to fight, waved his hands repeatedly at Yuan Kong.

Puzzled, Yuan Kong asked: “You’ve agreed to the match, so why haven’t you started yet?”

Zhang Xiaohua smiled and replied: “Although I’ve agreed with Sect Master Ou to duel with you, I have a condition. If you agree to it, then I’ll begin.”

Yuan Kong frowned. “I have no interest in negotiating conditions with you. Didn’t you already agree to the match? What’s there to discuss?”

Zhang Xiaohua grinned slyly and said: “Indeed, I agreed to the match, but if you don’t agree to my condition, I’ll simply take one move and then jump off the platform, conceding the match. How about that?”

Yuan Kong’s face darkened as he gritted his teeth. “You’re truly despicable, using such cheap tricks!”

Zhang Xiaohua shamelessly replied: “Victory or defeat is my concern, not yours. Why do you care so much?”

Clenching his teeth, Yuan Kong asked_ “What’s your condition?”

Zhang Xiaohua tilted his head as if in thought and then said: “Oh, it’s nothing too difficult. If you lose, you’ll have to teach me a sword technique from your Dalin Temple. For instance…”

At this point, Zhang Xiaohua seemed unsure which sword technique to request.

Standing nearby, Zhang Chengyue chimed in: “Zhang Xiaohua, are you perhaps referring to the Dharma Sword? I’ve often heard that the Dharma Sword Technique from Dalin Temple is exceptionally powerful. I imagine you admire it as much as I do.”

Zhang Xiaohua immediately picked up on the suggestion and replied:“Yes! The Dharma Sword! I’ve long heard that this technique shakes the heavens and moves the spirits. I’d love to see it for myself.”

Yuan Kong’s face turned red with anger as he retorted: “You’re pushing this too far! The Dharma Sword is a closely guarded secret of Dalin Temple. I haven’t even learned it myself—how could I teach it to you? That’s impossible!”

Zhang Xiaohua quickly countered: “Then just let me take a look at the sword manual.”

Yuan Kong still shook his head, refusing to agree.

Seeing this, Zhang Xiaohua made as if to leap off the platform and said: “Since we can’t come to terms, I’ll concede the match. You can claim your victory and go home triumphant.”

Panicked, Yuan Kong shouted: “Wait! Don’t go! I’ll ask my Uncle Master.”

With that, he used his qinggong to swiftly return to the thatched pavilion.

Hearing Yuan Kong’s dilemma, Monk Changgeng frowned. The Dharma Sword manual was an absolute secret of Dalin Temple—how could it be shared with an outsider? Yet if they didn’t restore their temple’s dignity, Monk Changgeng wouldn’t be able to let it go.

After pondering for a moment, he asked Yuan Kong: “Are you absolutely confident you can defeat him?”

Yuan Kong clenched his fists and replied: “I’m certain! In fact, Junior Brother Yuan Liao could have beaten him if not for his momentary carelessness.”

Monk Changgeng nodded and leaned in to whisper a few words.

Hearing this, Yuan Kong’s expression brightened, and he said: “Thank you, Uncle Master.”

Yuan Kong quickly returned to the platform.

When Zhang Xiaohua saw him return, he cheerfully asked: “So, did you agree?”

Yuan Kong smirked and replied: “As you wish. However, I don’t know the Dharma Sword Technique, so you can only look at the sword manual. But since this manual is a closely guarded secret of Dalin Temple, allowing you to view it comes with risks on our part. Therefore, after you’ve viewed it, you must not copy it down, describe it to anyone, or teach it to anyone else. Is that acceptable?”

Zhang Xiaohua smiled and said: “Naturally! I just want to admire it. Why would I teach it to anyone else?”

Yuan Kong added: “I’m not finished yet. You can read the Dharma Sword manual, but only once—no more, not even a fraction of a second longer. Do you agree? If not, you’re free to jump off the platform, and we’ll leave it at that.”