Chapter 158: 115, conveniently wiped out that small clan
Chapter 158: 115, conveniently wiped out that small clan
Upon returning to the Wan Family compound, Hou Yuxiao's expression remained dark and gloomy throughout.
His previous understanding of Qinjian Villa had been limited to its status as one of the ten great Holy Lands in the world. Today, after hearing what Tong Hu and others had said, it was clear that there was much more to it.
Qinjian Villa was established by the strongest three noble families in the world: the Zhao Clan, the Li Family, and the Qin Family. The founder was Zhao Yulong, the Grand Marshal of Soldiers and Horses of the Great Yu Dynasty from 1300 years ago. Hence, to this day, the Zhao Clan still firmly holds the position of Great Mansion Master, controlling the entire land of Jizhou.
The weight of being the number one noble family in the world was something Hou Yuxiao had already experienced through Zhao Ponu and Lu Qingxue. Although they were both of tender age, their cultivation had already reached the Grandmaster Realm. That was two years ago, and even now, recalling how they had acted back then, Hou Yuxiao felt his current cultivation was still inferior to theirs.
Two and a half years had passed, and their cultivation must have reached a new level!
"Heaven does not disappoint those who persevere. Recalling how I was only at the Seventh Level of Body Opening two years ago, haven't I also reached the Grandmaster Realm now? As long as I make use of the power of Divine Lotus, I can continuously strengthen myself and my clan. It's not impossible to conquer Wu with three thousand armored soldiers. Zhao Ponu, Lu Qingxue, Qinjian Villa—none shall escape."
Just thinking of those two names fanned the flames of hatred smoldering deep within Hou Yuxiao's heart. Though he was encouraging himself, his tone was filled with ferocity.
"Chen Yuhe, Liu Fufeng, Tong Hu, and the other four Dan Embracing Phase experts... since Zhao Qingxue initiated this, that Monk Buzheng will surely join them. They will definitely bring more people along, easily bringing together over ten experts above the Dan Embracing Phase!"
In the Golden Wind and Drizzle Building, Tong Hu had indeed said that Zhao Qingxue had gathered so many experts for the purpose of eliminating the Qinglong Association.
Hou Yuxiao sneered. These people's cries for vanquishing evil and defending the path of virtue echoed loudly, with Chen Yuhe even claiming that he would slay him with a sword. Yet it remained to be seen if, when their moment of death approached, they would still display such bravado.
"But that Zhao Qingxue, I'm afraid she cannot be moved so easily!"
Although Zhao Qingxue was of the Zhao Clan, Hou Yuxiao had no particular affection for her but wasn't inclined to transfer his hatred for Zhao Ponu onto her. His main reason for wanting to approach her was to try to get information about Zhao Ponu and Lu Qingxue.
He had met Zhao Qingxue once on the Tongtian River; that Little Daoist Nun was not as naive as she appeared. Since she dared to gather so many experts to go to Tongling County, she must have something to rely on. Hou Yuxiao naturally had to treat the situation with caution.
"It just so happens I should return to Tongling to prepare for the Qinglong Token matter. I'll go back with these people. That way, I can keep an eye on them and make sure they don't cause any trouble!"
After pondering for a long time, Hou Yuxiao finally let out a slight sigh of relief.
No matter what, the group being led by Zhao Qingxue wouldn't be too high in cultivation, as it was only targeting the Qinglong Association. A few experts at the Grandmaster Realm would be the limit, and he felt he could control the situation when the time came.
As for gathering information about that despicable couple Zhao Ponu and Lu Qingxue, he would see if there were any suitable opportunities on the road.
In the following days, Hou Yuxiao found a Wandering Martial Artist who regularly traveled between Wanyang County and Tongling County, and sent two letters—one to the Zhaoyang Clan and one to the Fourth and Fifth Elders in the Prefectural City—informing them of the arrival of these righteous figures. It was meant as a heads-up for them to prepare.
......
New Yu Era Year 1322, July 15th
Main Hall, Wan Family Compound
Hou Yuxiao stood on the dais, having returned to his original appearance. He eyed Wan Xiaolou as he walked in from the outside and immediately grabbed his wrist. After a moment of sensing, his face revealed a trace of approval.
"Opening of the Four Gates, it seems you haven't been slacking off during this time. Good!"
"Although I may lack talent, I understand that diligence can make up for it. Plus, with Master's excellent instruction, my cultivation has advanced by leaps and bounds."
In less than a month and a half, progressing from Body Opening second level to the Opening of the Four Gates, Wan Xiaolou's aptitude was definitely above average. Given that he had not had systematic guidance from a master before, now that he had started cultivating in earnest, his progress was rapid, which spoke to his innate talents as possibly even more extraordinary.
Taking in this disciple had truly been a profitable move for Hou Yuxiao.
"Master, are you going to leave?"
Wan Xiaolou's tone was somewhat downcast. During this period, Hou Yuxiao had been accelerating their martial arts training, clearly indicating his departure was imminent.
Hou Yuxiao nodded, looking at Wan Xiaolou with a smile, "Don't look so glum. I'm only going back to Tongling. You stay here and practice diligently. After I return, I will send some men for you to command. Just focus on setting up a branch of the Qinglong Association here, and send word to Tongling at any sign of trouble."
"Master, rest assured, I will practice diligently. I will also establish the branch as soon as possible to share in your burdens."
Hou Yuxiao shook his head and said, "Don't rush the establishment of the branch. For now, focus on your cultivation. You need to achieve at least the Ten Layers of Body Openings level, and also spend some time getting to know the various powers in Wanyang County. When the time is right, then proceed with the matter!"
On hearing that he must reach the Ten Layers of Body Openings before he could start building the branch, Wan Xiaolou's face immediately took on a look of dejection.
Currently at the Opening of the Four Gates, even with Hou Yuxiao's financial support, it would likely take a long time for him to meet the criteria.
"You're smart and quick-witted, but remember, in the martial world, strength is fundamental. Without sufficient strength, everything else is like building castles in the air."