One person: I wanted to give up, but my abilities wouldn't allow it.

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"You silly goose, how could you trust them so easily?"

The secrets of the Tang Clan are not so easily revealed.

Hong Bin felt somewhat wronged, but he also knew that his grandfather was doing it for his own good.

He assured his grandfather that he would handle the matter carefully and would not put himself in danger.

After pondering for a moment, Old Master Hong finally nodded. Based on Hong Bin's description, he guessed that the matter might be related to Dan Shi, so he warned Hong Bin not to associate with Lin Chen and Tang Yingjie anymore, so as not to cause more trouble.

"Do you understand?" Old Master Hong looked at Hong Bin sternly. "Cut off all contact with them, do you understand?"

Old Master Hong's stern warning shocked Hong Bin; he hadn't expected things to become so serious.

He knew his grandfather's words stemmed from concern for him, but he couldn't shake his worry for Lin Chen.

“Grandpa, I can’t just let Lin Chen be in danger like this,” Hong Bin said firmly. “I have to go and remind him to be careful.”

Grandpa Hong shook his head and sternly stopped him, saying, "Hong Bin, you have more important things to do."

Lin Chen and the others know what they're doing; we don't need to interfere too much.

Hearing this, Hong Bin remained silent for a moment.

He knew his grandfather was right, but he couldn't shake off his worries.

Just as he was hesitating, Old Master Hong suddenly brought up Hong Bin's parents again.

"Hong Bin, there's something I've been keeping from you for a long time," Old Master Hong's tone turned serious. "Your parents haven't left us, they..."

Upon hearing this, Hong Bin's heart stirred, and he became eager to know the truth.

However, Old Master Hong did not continue speaking; he simply sighed softly and shook his head.

"Let's talk about this later. You have more important things to do right now." There was a hint of regret in Old Master Hong's tone.

Back in the back room, Hong Bin ate his lunch with a heavy expression, unwilling to say another word.

Lin Chen noticed Hong Bin's change in mood and asked with concern, "Hong Bin, what's wrong? Did something happen?"

Hong Bin shook his head gently, trying to downplay his emotions. "It's nothing, I'm probably just a little tired."

The lunch was not easy. Hong Bin and Lin Chen chatted happily, but Tang Yingjie remained silent.

He felt a burden in his heart because he knew that due to his identity and mission, he could not get along well with Hong Bin and Lin Chen.

Hong Bin hailed a taxi and invited Lin Chen and Tang Yingjie to travel together.

The car weaved through the bustling streets, heading towards their destination.

"Lin Chen, is there anywhere you'd like to go?" Hong Bin asked.

Battle 182 Tang Sect 7

Lin Chen thought for a moment and said softly, "I'm more interested in history and culture. Can we go to the Wuhou Temple first?"

Hong Bin nodded in agreement. A short while later, the car stopped in front of the Wuhou Temple.

Hong Bin offered to pay for the tickets, saying he would cover the expenses. He felt a sense of relief seeing that neither Lin Chen nor Tang Yingjie refused.

They entered the Wuhou Temple, and Lin Chen began his tour. He was interested in the history and culture there, especially the history of the Three Kingdoms period. He carefully observed each exhibit and listened attentively to the guide's explanations.

Lin Chen had hoped to see some traces of Zhuge Liang at the Wuhou Temple, but was ultimately disappointed. He felt that the place had become a tourist attraction, devoid of any mystical significance.

"This is indeed a famous historical site, but it has lost some of its original charm, perhaps because it has become too commercialized," Lin Chen remarked softly.

Hong Bin smiled slightly upon hearing this: "Yes, most tourist attractions are like this nowadays; they're all too obviously commercialized."

After thinking for a moment, Lin Chen decided to head to Zhuge Village next. He hoped to gain a deeper understanding of Zhuge Liang's brilliance and experience a more authentic historical atmosphere there.

"Let's go to Zhuge Village," Lin Chen suggested. "Perhaps we can find more historical sites and stories there."

Hong Bin and Tang Yingjie both agreed, so they got into a taxi again and headed towards Zhuge Village.

Lin Chen and his companions arrived at Qingyang Palace, stepping into the Taoist temple grounds, where an ancient and mysterious atmosphere permeated the surroundings. Lin Chen was immersed in this historically significant palace, admiring its ingenious layout.

Although he only wandered around the scenic spots at the foot of the mountain, Lin Chen still felt the charm of Qingyang Palace. The architecture here was simple and elegant, exuding an ancient aura, and the atmosphere of cultivation was even more intense. Lin Chen was filled with curiosity and awe about the history and cultivation culture here.

Lin Chen stopped inside the Qingyang Palace, gazing at an open space before him, preparing to paint a picture. He took out a special piece of paper and began to paint using his own blood and ink.

Hong Bin and Tang Yingjie were curious about Lin Chen's behavior, wondering why he didn't use clean paper. Lin Chen explained, "This painting was inspired by my visit to Lin Laojun Cave when I was eighteen, but it's incomplete. I've always wanted to complete it."

Upon hearing this, Hong Bin and Tang Yingjie felt a surge of respect. They knew Lin Chen's passion for painting and his dedication to art. So, they stood quietly to the side, watching Lin Chen's brush dance on the paper.

Lin Chen planned to complete the painting at Qingyang Palace, hoping to fulfill the vision in his mind. He was completely immersed in the painting, seemingly oblivious to the surrounding noise; he focused solely on his creation.

With each stroke, Lin Chen's painting gradually became clear. He seemed to have entered a state of mind, infusing his emotions into every stroke. This painting was not only his work, but also an expression of the emotions in his heart.

Hong Bin and Tang Yingjie stood quietly to the side, watching Lin Chen's creative process intently. They could feel Lin Chen's focus and dedication, and they could understand his love and pursuit of art.

Lin Chen's paintbrush danced across the paper, creating an unfinished painting. The shape of the tortoise shell was clearly visible, but the surrounding patterns appeared abstract and mysterious. Hong Bin, intrigued by the painting, leaned closer to examine every detail.

"Lin Chen, this painting looks very special. What does it represent?" Hong Bin asked curiously.

Lin Chen stopped writing, looked at his work, and explained with a smile, "This painting depicts a tortoise shell, which includes a deformed hexagon and some abstract patterns."

Upon hearing this, a hint of surprise flashed in Hong Bin's eyes. He had never seen such a peculiar painting before, and his heart was filled with curiosity about its meaning.

"Tortoise shell?" Hong Bin repeated in confusion.

Lin Chen nodded and continued to explain, "Yes, the legendary divine turtle—the Dragon Turtle—carries a mysterious document known as the 'Luo Shu' on its back."

Hong Bin was even more shocked upon hearing this. He sensed an ancient and mysterious aura from Lin Chen's words, as if he were in a world full of legends and mysteries.

"The Luoshu?" Hong Bin asked. "What is that?"

Lin Chen smiled and continued to explain, "The Luoshu and Hetu are the fundamental laws of heaven, earth, the universe, and all things in nature. They are also the foundation and source of the methods of various extraordinary sects."

Lin Chen stood on the mountain path, a gentle breeze rustling the leaves. He closed his eyes, trying to immerse himself in the tranquil atmosphere, but found his mind still uneasy.

Suddenly, a warm hand gently patted his shoulder, startling him from his reverie. He opened his eyes and saw a Taoist priest standing beside him with a kind smile on his face.

"Your mind is somewhat unsettled, young man." The Taoist's voice was clear as a mountain spring, carrying a hint of timelessness.

Lin Chen's heart skipped a beat, realizing that he had almost fallen into deep thought, his fascination with the Luo Shu almost making him forget everything around him. He felt a wave of fear wash over him and looked at the Taoist priest with gratitude.

Thank you for reminding me, Daoist Master. I almost (Wang Lihao)... Lin Chen didn't know how to describe his feelings, but he knew he had almost fallen into a situation he couldn't extricate himself from.

The Taoist priest smiled and shook his head. "Young man, desires and curiosity are human nature. But if you can't control them, you'll go astray."

I have seen many people who aspire to pursue the mystical arts of Qimen Dunjia, but in the end they lose themselves.

Lin Chen remained silent for a moment, recalling what he had heard about the Taoist priests in the back mountains of Wudang, who had once been brothers but had gone astray due to their fascination with esoteric arts. He took a deep breath, his vigilance growing even stronger.

Master, may I ask which sect you belong to? Although Lin Chen was a Lin Chen, he still knew quite a bit about the sects in the martial arts world.

The Taoist priest smiled without speaking, only saying calmly: "In this world, the distinction between sects is not important. What matters is one's character and disposition."

Chapter 183 Xiao Tang Sect 8

Upon hearing this, Lin Chen couldn't help but feel a sense of respect. He realized that this Taoist priest's cultivation was profound, far surpassing most of the martial arts practitioners he had ever met.

"Master, could you please give me some pointers on how to cultivate one's character?" Although Lin Chen didn't know the Taoist's background, he felt a strange trust in him and was willing to ask him for advice.

The Taoist priest smiled slightly. Cultivating one's character is, in essence, cultivating one's state of mind. One must learn to transcend desires and maintain a pure heart. Only in this way can one maintain peace and composure amidst the perils of the martial world.

Lin Chen listened silently, and his mind gradually became clear. He realized that cultivation was not just about practicing martial arts, but more importantly, about cultivating one's mind and character.

Thank you for your guidance, Daoist Master. I will keep it in mind. Lin Chen bowed respectfully.

The Taoist priest smiled and shook his head. "Young man, the path of cultivation is long and arduous. But as long as you hold onto good intentions, you can go further. May you stay true to your original aspirations and never forget them."

Their conversation gradually faded away, the Taoist priest bid farewell and left, leaving Lin Chen alone in deep thought. He pondered the Taoist priest's teachings, and a sense of enlightenment gradually dawned on him.

However, just then, a series of hurried footsteps approached. Lin Chen looked up alertly and saw a group of martial arts practitioners wielding weapons, walking menacingly towards him.

"This kid is the one who ambushed us!" the leader shouted angrily.

Lin Chen felt a chill run down his spine. He hadn't made any move to launch a sneak attack, but these people pointed the finger at him without any mercy.

I've never seen you before! Lin Chen stared at the other party warily, his hand already quietly resting on the hilt of the sword at his waist.

"Enough talk, grab him!" the leader shouted angrily, and pounced on Lin Chen first.

The battle was about to begin, swords flashed and blades danced. Lin Chen, relying on his agility and martial arts skills, engaged in a fierce fight with his opponent.

With agile movements, he moved like the wind, effortlessly dodging his opponent's attacks while simultaneously counterattacking. Swords flashed and blades gleamed; for a moment, the mountain path was filled with the intense atmosphere of battle.

While fighting his enemies, Lin Chen tried to uncover the truth behind the sudden attack. Who were these people? Why did they want to harm him?

However, the enemy's offensive grew increasingly fierce, seemingly with no intention of communicating with him whatsoever. Lin Chen was filled with vigilance; he knew he had to fight with all his might to save his life.

Lin Chen and Fu Chen walked side by side, a mountain breeze blowing, bringing a slight chill. They remained silent, yet both felt a strange attraction to the other.

Lin Chen was filled with curiosity about Fu Chen. He noticed a faint Daoist aura emanating from Fu Chen, as if he were one with nature. He couldn't help but admire him, thinking that this Daoist's cultivation must be extraordinary.

Although Fu Chen was young, his eyes revealed a depth and wisdom. He was not a frivolous person, but a cultivator with firm beliefs and a reserved temperament.

As they walked, Lin Chen tried to talk to Fu Chen, wanting to learn more about him. He asked, "Master Fu, what is your purpose in coming here?"

Fu Chen smiled and replied, "I came here to patrol the forest; I didn't have a specific purpose. I just saw you being attacked, so I offered my help."

Lin Chen's heart stirred, and he said gratefully, "Thank you for your help, Daoist Fu. Otherwise, I'm afraid I would not have been able to escape this calamity."

Fu Chen smiled calmly. Everything has a cause and effect; I was simply going with the flow. However, you seem to have some misunderstanding about me; I am not a member of the Qingyang Palace.

Lin Chen was somewhat surprised. He had indeed assumed that Fu Chen was a Taoist priest from Qingyang Palace, but he hadn't expected him to be an outsider. However, he didn't think this was a bad thing; on the contrary, he became even more interested in this mysterious Taoist priest.

"Which school of Daoist Fu is a master of?" Lin Chen asked curiously.

Fu Chen smiled slightly. "I do not belong to any sect; I am merely a free-roaming cultivator."

Lin Chen couldn't help but feel respect. Free-roaming cultivators were rare in the martial world, because the path of cultivation required the support and resources of a sect, and going it alone was often difficult to sustain.

Before they knew it, the two had arrived at the actual Qingyang Palace. Although the Taoist temple was not large, it exuded a sense of tranquility and peace. Lin Chen was quite interested in the surroundings and said to Fu Chen, "This place seems even more secluded than the Qingyang Palace down the mountain."

Fu Chen nodded. "Yes, this is where I cultivate."

Lin Chen's heart stirred; he began to understand why Fu Chen's cultivation was so profound. Such a quiet and secluded place was undoubtedly an excellent training ground for cultivators.

Fu Chen led Lin Chen and the other two into the Qingyang Palace. A faint Daoist aura permeated the air, inspiring awe in everyone.

Lin Chen was captivated by the tranquility of the place; the scene before him seemed to transport him to a paradise. An inspiration surged within him, and he wanted to capture the beauty before him forever on his canvas.

"I have an idea. I'd like to paint a picture here. What do you think, Daoist Master?" Lin Chen asked Fu Chen.

Fu Chen smiled and nodded. "Excellent. If you feel something, just do as you please."

Lin Chen then took out his painting tools and began to paint on the steps of the mountain gate. Hong Bin and Tang Yingjie stood aside and watched quietly. Although they didn't quite understand Lin Chen's actions, they didn't disturb him, since everyone's state of mind and understanding are different.

Lin Chen was completely absorbed in his painting. His technique was skillful, and his brushstrokes were fluid, as if he were displaying everything he saw in his heart on the canvas. With each stroke of his brush, it seemed to echo the rhythm of nature, making the picture more vivid and dynamic.

Fu Chen stared at Lin Chen's painting, a strange look flashing in his eyes. His brows furrowed slightly, as if he were deep in thought.

Hong Bin and Tang Yingjie chatted nearby, discussing Lin Chen's Core Formation technique and expressing some understanding of it. They explained to Fu Chen that Lin Chen's paintings sometimes depicted peculiar images that seemed to transcend ordinary people's imagination.

Fu Chen smiled and nodded, indicating his understanding. Although he didn't understand the art of painting, he could sense Lin Chen's state of mind and insights.

Just as Lin Chen was about to put the scroll away, Fu Chen suddenly spoke up: "This is a cow's belly."

Lin Chen was taken aback, then a look of surprise appeared on his face. He looked at his painting, then at Fu Chen, not understanding why Fu Chen would say such a thing.

Chapter 184 Battle against Tang Sect 8

Cow belly? This… Lin Chen tried to explain his painting and showed the picture to Fu Chen.

Fu Chen smiled and shook his head.

I am not an expert in painting, but I can feel the artistic conception contained in the painting.

Your paintings seem to be part of nature, but I feel the scent of a cow's belly in my heart.

Perhaps this is just my feeling, you don't need to take it too seriously.

A longing for the Green Ox welled up in Lin Chen's heart.

But he resolutely put away the novel group 37 (I) Erjiuyao Yijiuhuajuan.

He understood that the path of spiritual practice requires patience and perseverance, and one should not stray from the right path due to momentary impulses.

Fu Chen looked at Lin Chen and congratulated him with a slight smile:

Brother Lin Chen has grasped the great Dao and possesses a profound state of mind—truly a rare find.

Lin Chen's heart stirred, and he looked at Fu Chen with gratitude.

He felt that the Taoist priest's insight was indeed extraordinary, as if he could see into people's hearts.

Hong Bin was puzzled by Lin Chen's behavior.