Chapter Fifty-Six: Liu Yunsheng

"Master, I’d like to ask if you know anyone in the martial arts world."

Without delay, Qin Feng recounted the situation with the Wen and Liu families. Upon hearing this, Elder Yan’s brows furrowed slightly, and a grave look flashed in his eyes.

He put down what he was holding, rose slowly, and walked over to Qin Feng, looking at him intently.

"Xiao Feng, as I expected, you’ve been drawn into the disputes among these families. The Wen and Liu families wield considerable influence in Jianghai and even the entire business world. The Wen family, in particular, is entangled with some complex powers in the capital."

Elder Yan sighed and continued, "However, since you’ve asked about people in the martial arts world, I do have a few old friends I could introduce you to."

Qin Feng’s heart leapt with hope, and he quickly asked, "Master, could these people help us stand against the Wen and Liu families?"

Elder Yan shook his head, saying earnestly, "The martial arts world has its own rules. They won’t easily meddle in the affairs of the secular world. However, if you can earn their respect and recognition, they might lend you a hand at a critical moment. Remember, true strength comes from within; outside help is only an aid."

Qin Feng nodded; he understood this well. Still, he knew that relying on his own strength alone to stand against a behemoth like the Wen family would be far too difficult.

"Then, Master, could you introduce me to a few seniors first? At least let me gain some understanding of the martial arts world." Qin Feng asked sincerely.

Elder Yan pondered for a moment before finally nodding. "Very well, I’ll take you to meet someone. He’s an old friend of mine, a senior figure in Jianghai’s martial arts world. But remember, the martial arts world is deeper than you can imagine."

Qin Feng nodded gratefully, knowing full well how rare this opportunity was.

Elder Yan took Qin Feng by car to a secluded villa community in the mountains. The surroundings were tranquil, shaded by lush trees—a stark contrast to the bustling city. At the entrance, security personnel stood guard, making it clear that only the wealthy or influential lived here.

In front of a quaint, traditional villa, Elder Yan stopped the car. He knocked lightly on the door, and soon an elderly man dressed in a Tang suit opened it. The old man’s kindly face was imbued with an air of authority that needed no display.

"Ha ha, old Yan, you’ve finally come!"

Upon seeing Elder Yan, the old man walked up with delight and gave him a hearty hug.

"Old Liu, it’s been a long time. I’ve brought my disciple to see you. He wants to meet you and learn something about the martial arts world," Elder Yan said with a smile.

Only then did the old man notice Qin Feng standing behind Elder Yan. He scrutinized him from head to toe, a glimmer of appreciation in his eyes. "Young man, you have a good spirit. Come in, let’s talk inside."

Once inside, the old man personally brewed a pot of fine tea, and the three sat around the coffee table in the living room.

The old man introduced himself, "My name is Liu Yunsheng, one of the elders of Jianghai's martial arts community. Xiao Feng, since you’re interested, let me explain to you the ways of our world."

Liu Yunsheng went on to explain in detail the hierarchy, cultivation methods, and basic knowledge of martial arts. Qin Feng listened with rapt attention, and his understanding of the martial arts world grew ever clearer.

The martial arts are divided from the first to the ninth rank; with his current strength, Qin Feng would be considered a third-rank martial artist.

"But I’m quite curious—how did you get involved with the Wen family here in Jianghai?"

Liu Yunsheng sipped his tea, looking at him with interest.

Qin Feng sighed softly, then recounted the whole story.

"It all started with my work at the Jade Pavilion. Wen Bin, the young master of the Wen family, developed a grudge against me over some personal matters, and that ultimately led to this tragedy."

Liu Yunsheng listened, his brows knit tightly together, and said in a deep voice, "The Wen family has always acted domineeringly, but that doesn’t mean you can let them off lightly. In the martial world, grudges are clear-cut, and strength commands respect. If you wish to protect yourself, you must continually improve your own strength."

Qin Feng nodded, his gaze resolute. "I understand. That’s why I came to see you today."

Hearing this, Liu Yunsheng fell silent. He had no relationship with Qin Feng and saw no reason to provoke the Wen family on his behalf.

Qin Feng, however, looked straight at Liu Yunsheng, his eyes burning with hope.

"Ahem, old Liu! He’s my only disciple—if you help him, I’ll give you that treasure of mine!"

Elder Yan, of course, understood the way of things: you can ask a friend for a favor, but if it’s for someone else, that’s entirely different.

It’s just like with your own buddies—if it’s for you, sure, but for someone else, well, that’s not my concern.

"Alright, old Yan, I’ll help. But you’ll have to let this boy stay with me for a while. There’s a martial arts gathering soon, and I’ll take him to broaden his horizons."

Liu Yunsheng agreed, albeit reluctantly—after all, with an old friend and a treasure on offer, it would be unkind to refuse.

Qin Feng breathed a sigh of relief and thanked him profusely.

Liu Yunsheng waved his hand, signaling Qin Feng to wait, then left the room.

Shortly after, Liu Yunsheng returned, holding a wooden box, which he handed to Qin Feng.

Qin Feng received it, feeling its weight, and a surge of indescribable excitement rose in his heart.

"Thank you, Senior Liu. I will cherish this inheritance, work hard in my cultivation, and strive not to disappoint you."

Qin Feng bowed deeply, his eyes shining with determination and resolve.

Liu Yunsheng nodded in satisfaction. "The Five Thunder Fist is immensely powerful, but mastering it is extremely difficult. It requires great willpower and physical strength. You mustn’t rush—proceed step by step, laying a solid foundation."

Qin Feng, hearing this, felt his path ahead become clearer. There are no shortcuts on the road of martial arts; only by steady progress can one reach the summit.

"Since that’s settled, Xiao Feng is in your hands," Elder Yan said with a smile, patting Qin Feng’s shoulder. "Follow your martial uncle well. I may not know martial arts, but your martial uncle is a formidable figure."

"Yes, I understand," Qin Feng replied respectfully, bowing low. "I will abide by your teachings, sirs."

"Good. Go back and settle your affairs first. Once you’re done, come and join us here."