Chapter 16: Duan Clan's Direct Descendant

Duan Wenxuan had prepaid three months’ rent at Tong Fu Inn upfront. However, he was often elusive like glimpses of a divine dragon, appearing sporadically. Today’s sudden visit raised suspicions among Tong Xiangyu and Bai Zhan Tang.

“Don’t worry; I’m not a bad person. My family is quite wealthy, but I have no interest in inheriting their business, so I’ve been wandering outside on my own terms. Most of my occasional travels are for leisure, Brother Bai, you needn’t concern yourself,” Duan Wenxuan spoke straightforwardly, avoiding any evasive tactics.

Bai Zhan Tang felt embarrassed upon hearing this, as Duan Wenxuan had always been generous with tips during his rare appearances, accumulating quite a sum for Bai. Accepting favors makes one indebted, and deep down, even the Robber Sage didn’t perceive Duan Wenxuan as a villain. Everyone has their secrets; just as Bai himself retired from the jianghu, it was only natural for Duan Wenxuan to harbor some mysteries too. With this realization, Bai Zhan Tang ceased questioning Duan Wenxuan’s background.

The next day, Bai Zhan Tang and shopkeeper Tong Xiangyu got into an argument over something unspecified. Later, Bai contemplated opening a martial arts dojo and enlisted Li Dazui and Scholar Lu’s support.

Seeing this as an opportunity, Duan Wenxuan promptly enrolled.

To his surprise, ever since his physical fitness improved, Duan Wenxuan discovered he had significantly better aptitude for martial arts. Coupled with his diligent studying, Bai Zhan Tang, having retired from the jianghu and learning of the Sunflower Sect’s demise, felt completely at ease without any lingering concerns. Consequently, he didn’t mind who learned his Merkle Strike technique.

The most delightful revelation for Duan Wenxuan was that Bai Zhan Tang also knew disguise techniques and long-distance pressure point strikes. However, his disguise skills were average; he claimed his mother was the true master.

Duan Wenxuan secretly slipped Bai Zhan Tang two hundred taels worth of silver notes obtained from selling items at Qianji Pawnshop. In return, Bai Zhan Tang taught him tirelessly, holding nothing back. Without even needing to be addressed as Master, he treated Duan Wenxuan like a valued customer, sometimes bordering on obsequiousness.

After practicing for several days, Duan Wenxuan made some progress in technique, but lacked sufficient inner strength—a skill only gained through prolonged effort, over which Bai Zhan Tang could offer little assistance.

Following Bai Zhan Tang’s guidance, Duan Wenxuan acquired a copy of the “Sunflower Heart Sutra.” Despite half-hearted cultivation attempts, all it provided was a slight warmth in his dantian region.

Four days later, the third world opened.

With no other choice, Duan Wenxuan left Qi Xia Town fully armed and entered the third world. However, this world seemed devoid of any significant value. Upon arrival, he found himself in an ordinary bar, not unlike those in Hanming Country.

After sitting for a while, he ventured out to explore. Nearby, there was a cluster of apartment buildings with an intriguing name: Love Apartment Complex.

Duan Wenxuan then conducted some online research about this world. Much of its history closely resembled that of Hanming Country, but with notable deviations at certain points. The most striking difference was the absence of the Yue Empire; it simply did not exist here. Skipping past the era where the Yue Empire would have been prominent, everything diverged completely from Hanming Country’s timeline, even affecting the global landscape significantly.

Currently, this world experienced minor conflicts continuously yet maintained overall peace. There were also no signs of the mystical resurgence seen in Hanming Country.

Within twenty-four hours, Duan Wenxuan concluded that this world held little intrinsic value, primarily useful for procuring resources. If one day, due to the revival of mystical forces, Xuanlan Star faced shortages of food, daily necessities, or other supplies, he could directly source them from this world.

After twenty-four hours, Duan Wenxuan returned to Qi Xia Town.

Having spent two peaceful days studying, Li Dazui mentioned wanting to visit his mother. Seizing the opportunity, Duan Wenxuan found an excuse, bought some gifts, and accompanied him.

“Wenxuan, my family is quite poor, so please don’t be disappointed when we arrive. Also, my mother might ask you questions; just humor her and answer politely. If she asks too many, don’t complain - she’s getting old, and I can’t afford to upset her,” Li Dazui said, demonstrating genuine filial piety despite his usual carefree demeanor.

“That’s perfectly fine.”

Upon reaching their destination, Duan Wenxuan realized how truly impoverished the place was.

Li Dazui’s mother lived in a small village about four or five miles outside of Qi Xia Town. The village had few inhabitants, most of whom relied on farming for sustenance. Madam Li, having gone blind, could no longer work, and both she and her son depended solely on Li Dazui’s meager earnings. Their home consisted of two simple thatched rooms with a handful of chickens and ducks outside, yet everything was neatly maintained.

“Guests have arrived?”

As soon as Duan Wenxuan stepped into Li Dazui’s house, Madam Li emerged with her walking stick, her face filled with warmth and smiles.

As expected of the Gambling God, her hearing was impeccable.

Li Dazui quickly set down his items and went to support her. “Mother, these are friends from the inn, here to visit us.” He then lowered his voice, whispering, “Mother, please be courteous. I’m partnering with Old Bai to open a dojo, and he’s our only student right now. We rely heavily on him, so let’s not offend him.”

Madam Li smiled, patting Li Dazui’s hand gently before urging Duan Wenxuan to take a seat.

Li Dazui promptly brewed a cup of tea for Duan Wenxuan, after which Madam Li sent him off to prepare food.

Sure enough, Madam Li subtly asked Duan Wenxuan numerous questions, all of which he answered politely.

“Don’t mind me; Big Mouth doesn’t have many friends. I know his character well - he is kind-hearted, but having received little education since childhood, he can sometimes be stubborn and naive. I worry that he might fall under the influence of unsavory individuals who could lead him astray.

I must also confess, though Li Dazui may not realize it, during my youth, I experienced much of the world. Someone like you, young Master Duan, likely isn’t ordinary. It takes a distinguished upbringing to cultivate such refined demeanor and scholarly knowledge as yours.”

“Madam, please don’t misunderstand. Actually, I came here today with a request to make of you.”

“Speak your mind, young sir,” Madam Li responded firmly.

Duan Wenxuan hesitated before continuing, “I’ve heard that Madam was once known as Fingerless Xuan Yuan, renowned for unparalleled gambling skills. Would it be possible for you to teach me?”

Madam Li’s brow furrowed gradually, her expression turning serious. “Young sir, you’re neither short on money nor a desperate gambler. What purpose would learning this serve? Gambling techniques often overlap with cheating methods; no matter how skilled, there’s always a risk of getting caught. You must understand, no one in this world can win forever, not even the gods of gambling.

Winning feels good, but a single loss could cost you everything, including life itself. Please heed my advice: these skills bring more harm than good, and it’s best not to pursue them.”

“And if I insist on learning?” Duan Wenxuan sighed. “I swear, after mastering your gambling techniques, Madam, I will never enter any gambling houses or bet against others in this world.”

Despite being blind, Madam Li still conveyed skepticism, “Then why do you wish to learn?”

“Curiosity, partly… And also, it would be a shame to lose such extraordinary gambling skills. However, I’m not short on money nor addicted to gambling. Madam, please rest assured; I genuinely won’t engage in any betting here.” With that, Duan Wenxuan placed another hundred taels silver note before Madam Li. “Madam, this is for your tutelage fee. Please don’t refuse; Big Mouth is growing older and will eventually need to marry someday.

As you well know, given his current situation, he likely can’t afford marriage. This money could help you repair the house later and purchase some jewelry, making it easier to find him a match through a matchmaker, wouldn’t you agree?”

Madam Li pondered for quite some time, still hesitant to accept.

“Madam, life hasn’t been easy for Big Mouth, losing his father at such a young age. With no wealth, he couldn’t attend school and barely knows how to read. He never received proper culinary training either, only picking up bits by observing our chef while washing dishes at the Yellow Crane Pavilion.

Surely, you wouldn’t want him stuck earning mere pennies and living alone all his life, right? You’re with him now, but let’s face reality - what about years down the line? Alone, impoverished, and lacking good skills, how will he manage then?”

Madam Li’s eyes began to redden slightly. Who wouldn’t wish their child well?

In her youth, she had relied on her gambling prowess to earn the title of “Gambling Goddess.” Coupled with her striking beauty, she’d lived extravagantly for a time. Her arrogance led her to offend many within the world of martial arts. Later, when she met the man she loved, her temperament gradually mellowed, but by then, it was too late to leave the jianghu behind. Eventually, her husband’s involvement brought about his demise, and she herself was coerced into one final gamble—only to lose.

Having lost, she had to accept the consequences: severing a finger and swearing never to sit at a gaming table again.

When Big Mouth was young, Madam Li did consider earning some money so he could attend school. Ultimately, she couldn’t risk it; if anyone discovered she frequented gambling dens, it would violate her oath. In the jianghu, those who kill do not hesitate.

“Forget it… But you must solemnly swear once more. I will teach you, but once you step out that door, I deny ever having done so, and you are forbidden from telling others your mentor was me.

As for gambling, since I’m old now, my only request is that you never play against others within a hundred miles of Qi Xia Town. No matter what happens, ensure it doesn’t involve Big Mouth; everything else, I won’t concern myself with.”

Duan Wenxuan readily agreed, immediately taking an oath.

“All right, come closer.”

Duan Wenxuan thought she might reveal some secret technique, but as he approached, Madam Li unexpectedly grabbed his wrist and sternly commanded, “Calm your mind and focus.”

Instinctively, Duan Wenxuan dared not struggle; he never imagined Madam Li would intentionally harm him.

After a moment, he felt a warmth gradually flow through his meridians and pool in his dantian. It was like a small flame had ignited there, slowly growing larger until it began to ache, spreading heat throughout his body and causing sweat to bead on his forehead.

Approximately fifteen minutes passed before Madam Li finally released him, looking visibly drained.

“What did you just…?”

Madam Li sighed. “In my youth, I didn’t dedicate myself to martial arts; whatever skills I possessed were merely seventh or eighth-rate by jianghu standards. Over time, even those have faded from memory—teaching them to you would be futile.

However, when it comes to internal cultivation, I practiced the ‘Everlasting Internal Classic’ in my younger days. While lacking in destructive power, its strength lies in harmony and stability, which will aid you in sound localization and mastering my Four Directions Exquisite Gambling Technique. Since you have no prior foundation in internal arts, I’ve decided to be generous and impart half of my own internal energy to you, making it easier for you to learn the Exquisite Gambling Technique.”

Duan Wenxuan expressed his gratitude profusely.

After hearing more of Madam Li’s past stories, Li Dazui swiftly prepared the meal and brought it to the table.

Madam Li instructed Li Dazui to regard Duan Wenxuan as his elder brother, emphasizing that he should always heed Wenxuan’s guidance. If Li Dazui ever misbehaved outside, she entrusted Duan Wenxuan with disciplining him, insisting that even if severely injured, as long as her son remained alive, she would hold no grudges against Wenxuan.

This demonstrated Madam Li’s thoughtful intentions; despite being blind, her understanding was keen.

The Li family had few remaining relatives, and their county magistrate uncle showed little affection towards them. In fact, Magistrate Lou had considered dismissing Li Dazui from his constable position multiple times.

Once Madam Li passed away, Magistrate Lou would likely ignore Li Dazui altogether. With Big Mouth’s impulsive nature, mishaps were bound to occur without someone looking after him. Although Tongfu Inn’s proprietress was decent, she was ultimately an outsider.

If Duan Wenxuan learned Madam Li’s secret techniques and secretly formed a bond with Li Dazui, out of respect for her, Wenxuan, assuming he had any conscience, could not abandon Li Dazui in the future.

Li Dazui looked utterly bewildered; how could his mother suddenly instruct him to regard Duan Wenxuan as his brother while he was just preparing a meal? After all, Duan Wenxuan appeared significantly younger than himself.

However, Li Dazui was deeply filial, almost to a fault. The moment Madam Li expressed her anger, Li Dazui promptly addressed Duan Wenxuan as his elder brother and showed unwavering respect and obedience towards him.

The meal concluded with both host and guest thoroughly satisfied.

Duan Wenxuan ended up staying at Li Dazui’s home for three or four days. During this time, he provided Li Dazui with money to purchase various nourishing items like ginseng and bird’s nest soup, which they prepared daily for Madam Li’s health.

In between these visits, Duan Wenxuan secretly opened the door, bringing Madam Li to An City, and then immersed his consciousness within her mind. However, unlike Ye Youyou, Duan Wenxuan did not attempt any direct manipulation with Madam Li. Instead, he simply sat quietly in her consciousness, observing and absorbing her gambling techniques.

Madam Li remained completely unaware of anything unusual, only marveling at Duan Wenxuan’s astonishing progress. Within those few days, he had already mastered about seven to eight-tenths of her skills, with the remaining gap merely requiring further refinement over time.

The Four-Sided Exquisite Gambling Technique itself wasn’t particularly challenging; it primarily consisted of extraordinary techniques honed through time and practice. However, with his ‘cheat device,’ Duan Wenxuan could directly boost his proficiency.

On the fifth day, Madam Li praised Duan Wenxuan’s exceptional talent, stating that he had learned all there was to learn from her about the Four-Sided Exquisite Gambling Technique. The rest would come with experience, which she couldn’t teach him further.

After such an extended absence, Li Dazui also needed to return to Tongfu Inn. So, on the morning of the sixth day, Duan Wenxuan bid farewell to Li Dazui and Madam Li, heading back to the inn together.

“Hey, Big Mouth, what have you got there?” As soon as they entered the inn, Bai Zhan Tang noticed Li Dazui carrying a large bundle and approached with a grin.

Li Dazui ignored Bai Zhan Tang and smiled at Duan Wenxuan instead. “Finally back at the inn, must be hungry after the journey? Let me prepare something for you.”

Duan Wenxuan shook his head, indicating he had to leave again and would likely return in a few days. This was not unusual for him at Tongfu Inn; everyone was accustomed to his comings and goings.

As soon as Duan Wenxuan stepped out, Guo Fu Rong and Bai Zhan Tang wasted no time in rummaging through Li Dazui’s bundle.

“No, no, leave some for them. The sweet potato and eggplant chips inside are really good; my mom picked these specifically for Big Bro Duan. Don’t finish it all, or I won’t be able to explain to her later.”

“Big Bro Duan?!”

Li Dazui scratched his head. “I’m not sure why either, but my mom told me to call him that, saying she considers him like a real elder brother privately. Just don’t spread this around, okay?”

With his straightforward nature, as soon as he finished speaking, he gathered up the opened bundle and rushed towards the kitchen.

Bai Zhan Tang exchanged glances with Guo Fu Rong, sensing something amiss. “Did you notice? When Wenxuan left just now, his footsteps were much lighter.”

“What could that mean?” Tong Xiangyu descended from upstairs, casually fanning herself.

Bai Zhan Tang promptly replied, “It means Wenxuan has developed internal martial arts, and quite deeply too. Achieving such proficiency requires at least seventeen to eighteen years of practice. But here’s the issue - he didn’t have any before. He’s only just started learning the Sunflower Heart Sutra I taught him.”

“All right, enough already. Why get so involved in others’ affairs?” Tong Xiangyu wasn’t interested in meddling; making money remained her priority.

“You’re right.” Bai Zhan Tang nodded and headed back to serve customers.

Back in An City, Duan Wenxuan hadn’t ventured out for quite some time, but no one disturbed him either. In truth, he had always been a homebody. With his needs well-provided for, there were periods when he wouldn’t leave the house for two to three months at a stretch. Normally, aside from Zong Cheng occasionally bringing over food cooked by his girlfriend, Duan Wenxuan relied on ordering takeout for all his meals.

When the mood struck, Duan Wenxuan would go out and explore. And once he did, it could be anywhere from half a year to longer. If he found a city particularly enjoyable, he’d rent a place there for several months.

There was nothing he couldn’t afford; being financially secure allowed him such indulgences.

Upon returning from Qi Xia Town, Duan Wenxuan quickly realized that during his brief absence, the world had undergone significant changes.

No country remained peaceful, with chaotic news stories flooding the media. However, focusing specifically on Hanming Country, although no definitive conclusions had been officially announced yet, several regulations had already been implemented.

Firstly, starting from the next academic term, survival skills courses would be introduced in schools nationwide, from elementary to university level. Additionally, the importance of physical education scores would increase, especially for high school students, with a greater emphasis placed on sports performance in their college entrance exams.

Secondly, global history classes would be added across all levels of education, from elementary to university, regardless of one’s major. This also included increasing the weightage of history scores in examinations.

Third, starting from today, Hanming Country will partially relax weapon regulations. Currently, firearms remain prohibited, but trade in certain bladed weapons, bows, and arrows will be allowed.

Fourth, Hanming Country encourages citizens to actively engage in physical exercise and will initiate nationwide fitness promotion campaigns.

These were the latest policies announced by the Prime Minister of Hanming Country, swiftly implemented in An City as a major metropolitan area. Concurrently, the An City Municipal Government released the “An City Public Safety Handbook.” The metro and bus advertisements were filled with content from this handbook.

“Stay fit for health’s sake, cautious when venturing out, Avoid wilds where danger lurks, don’t spread rumors or fear, In trouble, promptly call for aid…”

The catchy public safety phrases echoed everywhere, and within just a few days, everyone in An City became familiar with them.

Additionally, An City bolstered its urban police presence significantly. Each police booth now housed armed personnel with loaded weapons. Even on bustling main streets, daily patrols increased—a sight previously unheard of.

Access to An City was strictly controlled; leaving was relatively easier, but entering faced stringent measures.

Currently, no country on Xuanlan Star had explicitly made any official statements. However, the measures taken by each nation led to some public speculation, as people were not blind to the situation.

An City was no exception; the streets now saw significantly fewer pedestrians.

Duan Wenxuan ventured out and noticed many supermarkets with empty shelves. Some individuals wheeled carts filled with various essential goods. Those with foresight, sensing something amiss, were quietly stockpiling food and supplies.

Duan Wenxuan didn’t need to do this, as the newly accessible “Love Apartment” world would serve as his primary resource base.

He headed straight for the cosmetics section and purchased a variety of makeup items haphazardly. Bai Zhan Tang had indeed taught him disguise techniques, although he wasn’t yet as skilled as Bai himself. However, combining these ancient methods with modern makeup techniques could compensate for his shortcomings.

Disguise work requires physical effort, but Duan Wenxuan had learned bone control from Tang Tianlu and acupoints manipulation from Bai Zhan Tang. Now, he could subtly alter his stature using the Shrink Bone Art. Alongside Bai Zhan Tang’s disguise teachings, after spending several hours experimenting, Duan Wenxuan looked into the mirror and found himself transformed beyond recognition.

The person reflected in the mirror appeared to be around ten years old, with slightly long hair tied back into a Daoist knot at the nape of his neck. A finely crafted white jade hairpin, exhibiting both simplicity and elegance, was gently inserted by Duan Wenxuan into the knot.

He scrutinized his reflection repeatedly, adjusting his facial expression until it conveyed a hint of pride yet still retained some youthful innocence between his brows. Only then did Duan Wenxuan nod in satisfaction.

“My name is Duan Yuanhui, heir to the ancient martial arts lineage of the Duan family.” Duan Wenxuan repeated this mantra several times before the name ‘Duan Yuanhui’ became deeply ingrained in his memory, eliciting an almost subconscious response. With that, he finally stopped practicing in front of the mirror.

Next, he needed to make another visit to Little Peak Mountain.

Whatever the door could absorb from that white deer, Duan Wenxuan was determined to obtain it.