"Kung Fu Hustle" wrapped up-second brother came calling? / Chen Qi, you really are a little brother of our Sui family!
Chongyue murmured to himself for a long time before opening his eyes. He looked refreshed, and the inner demons and confusion that had not yet begun to brew in his heart vanished at that moment.
At this moment, Chongyue's "human heart" became even purer.
Chapter 234: Kung Fu Hustle Comes to an End, and the Second Brother Comes Knocking?
"We need to reshoot some scenes, especially the fight scene from last time. There were some parts where everyone retreated quickly and we didn't get to film them. It looks like we'll have to do it several times."
"Some scenes will also have to be filmed within Xi's painting, but it won't be troublesome. We can deliver the goods in less than half a month, and then you can give your report to the Emperor of Great Yan, Wei Yenwu."
Two days have passed since Chen Qi used the Buddha's Palm drive away his second brother and help Huai Tianpei overcome his inner demons. During this time, after showcasing his strength in the movie * Kung Fu Hustle *, almost everyone's opinion of Chen Qi has subtly changed...
For example, Hoshiguma, Lin Yuxia, and Swire, these girls who had gotten along quite well with him when filming "Young and Dangerous" in Lungmen, showed a deeper sense of awe towards him after Chen Qi used the Buddha's Palm.
It was as if their relationship had suddenly changed from peers to seniors and juniors. Chen Qi had long anticipated such a change. Among their peers, although everyone's martial arts skills varied, they were generally not that different. Even the most talented sisters, Chen Huijie and Talulah, were not strong enough to command the respect of others.
However, this time, whether it was his identity, which had long been considered that of a "Feranmut," or Chen Qi's display of strength that surpassed everyone's comprehension, or his understanding of martial arts, all of these factors completely set him apart from his peers.
Fortunately, after filming wrapped up and Chen Qi returned to a life where he didn't need to exert himself, everyone gradually readjusted after a few days of getting along with Chen Qi. Seeing that Chen Qi's attitude hadn't changed, everyone returned to their usual selves.
"Kid... you really surprised us all, you gave us a big surprise."
Wei Yenwu Wenyue, who were still recovering, sat in their respective seats in their residences. They had resumed their usual attire, but Wei Yenwu's attitude towards Chen Qi had completely changed from initial scrutiny and slight displeasure to acceptance and trust because of this incident.
The elderly often judge a person's character by observing a few small things. Chen Qi, upon returning from his travels, not only achieved results but also accomplished something significant, proving his character and abilities.
So, what else could Wei Yenwu and his wife possibly worry about regarding their niece's husband? Clearly, he was beyond reproach.
"You helped Huai the Martial Arts Fanatic overcome his inner demons and eliminated the crisis at Lungmen. My wife and I also gained unparalleled martial arts skills because of you, and successfully passed the test that my younger brother gave us."
"You're really something, there's not a single fault to be found... We're relieved to have Little Tal with you."
As Wei Yenwu spoke, he put away his pipe. Talulah, after a slight pause, immediately showed a delighted expression and asked Wei Yenwu:
"Wei Yenwu, you mean... you support us?"
"... There are some things I can't control, after all, Little Tal, your mother's bloodline is inevitably connected to the Great Yan royal family." Wei Yenwu also had a helpless smile on his face as he said to the two of them:
"But, as your uncle, Little Tal, your mother's brother, and your father's sworn brother, I personally support you."
"Of course, you probably don't need the support of an old man like me. I've done too many things to wrong Little Tal, and I'm already grateful that Heaven hasn't punished me by killing my own flesh and blood."
"But some things are better said out loud, so that there's less of a grudge between us."
Wei Yenwu took a drag of his cigarette, and after saying that, he turned to Chen Qi and said with a slight smile:
"Chen Qi, Little Tal... I'm leaving him in your care."
"Needless to say, I've always done it this way, Uncle."
After gaining Wei Yenwu's approval, Chen Qi's way of addressing Wei Yenwu changed very sensibly, which angered...
Talulah couldn't help but grab Chen Qi's arm and lean her body slowly against him to express her dependence and trust in this man, her face beaming with an extremely satisfied and happy smile.
This is a small matter, but it means a lot to them. They can now be considered... people who truly have a family.
"Click."
"It seems this scene can't be included as behind-the-scenes footage, but Director Chen Qi and the others will definitely love this photo!"
Not far away, Eureka, who had been granted permission to enter the Wei Residence to take photos but promised not to share them, also quietly captured this heartwarming scene. Judging from the fact that no one stopped her, she must have received tacit approval.
Beside Eureka, Vina, FrostNova, and Patriot watched this scene with considerable satisfaction. However, Vina, glancing at FrostNova beside her who was wiping away tears of relief, couldn't help but ask:
"Are you really alright? I remember you were also..."
"This doesn't conflict. You joined us later and don't understand our relationship with Chen Qi and Talulah." FrostNova wiped away her tears that had turned to ice, deliberately putting on a cold expression as she spoke to Vina:
"Although Talulah and I are rivals in love, I know I can never challenge Talulah's position in Chen Qi's heart... I couldn't do it back then, and I certainly can't now."
"But even so, we are still family. We are family, and other relationships come after that. Do you understand?"
"Oh, it means an extramarital affair." Vina suddenly realized and understood what FrostNova meant, but she was soon met with a barrage of icy spikes.
Vina had been in Chen Qi's film crew for so long and had become very familiar with everyone. Although she had been doing various jobs on set besides studying, Vina had thoroughly understood the interpersonal relationships within the crew.
Currently, Vina is in FrostNova's Yeti Squad, handling some important tasks. FrostNova has always been suspicious of the former Crown Princess Victoria's approach to Chen Qi. Furthermore, given Vina's actions in Londinium, such as sneaking into Chen Qi's room dressed as a maid and becoming Chen Qi's student, Frostnova has always taken extra care of Vina.
This wasn't the first time the two women had clashed. With the blessing of "Breath of Kings," Vina could always neutralize FrostNova's Originium Arts, but she was still no match for FrostNova. As a result, Vina set a goal for her own strength—to surpass FrostNova first.
As for surpassing Patriot... Vina dared not think about it for the time being. However, Chen Qi's extraordinary martial arts skills have made Vina's mind more active. As long as she learns Yan language, she will not only be able to understand the essential readings on how to become an emperor that Chen Qi gave her, but also the martial arts manuals!
"So, are you still planning to leave?"
Meanwhile, at the Lee's Detective Agency in Lungmen, Lee was also taking a sip of hot tea. The person in front of Lee was Huai Tianpei. After experiencing the baptism of the Buddha's Palm, Huai Tianpei had lost some of his competitive and fierce aura and gained more gentleness and composure.
Before leaving, Huai Tianpei made a special trip to see Lee, his sworn brother who had taken care of his daughter for so many years, Huai Tianpei he had to thank him.
"To be honest, you look more like a father now than you used to be, you were just a warrior." Seeing that Huai Tianpei was still about to leave, Lee couldn't help but look towards the other room—there, Waai Fu, Hong, and A were definitely listening to their conversation.
"But why do you still want to leave? Now that you've had an epiphany, wouldn't it be better to stay and use your martial arts to protect your beloved daughter?"
"... Following me won't be good for Waai Fu. I'm destined to be a martial arts fanatic, but she can do it better than me."
Huai Tianpei also gave a rough laugh. Having resolved his inner conflict, he seemed much more open-minded and clearer about his next step. He then said to Lee:
"Waai Fu has more talent than me and can go further than me. More importantly, she understood from the beginning why she was learning martial arts."
"It's better for Waai Fu to be by your side. I have too many enemies, and it would drag her into unnecessary trouble. Let Waai Fu do some small things with you, like chivalrous deeds. And when her martial arts skills are high enough, she can do whatever she wants... then let her do it."
"What are your plans for the future?" Seeing that Huai Tianpei had made up his mind, Lee stopped trying to persuade him and simply asked Huai Tianpei about his future plans.
"Travel throughout the Great Yan and collect martial arts techniques from various schools and sects." Having already decided what he should do in the future, Huai Tianpei quickly replied, "Compile them into a book, take it to Jade Gate, and then find a job as a military officer."
"Oh? When did you decide to take a government job?"
Lee was also surprised to hear this, as it was unlike the Huai Tianpei he knew. But then he saw Huai Tianpei grin, and for the first time, a kind smile appeared on the burly man's face. He replied somewhat embarrassedly:
"Just like you said, everyone needs to find a place to settle down. I'm collecting all the martial arts techniques in the world so that they can be used by better people."
"The soldiers of the Great Yan are all preparing for battle at Jade Gate. In the future, whether it is the northern Demons or other threats, they will be needed at any time... I am just a martial artist, and there is not much I can do, except to compile some martial arts techniques and bring them to them, so that more people can use martial arts for the righteous path."
"Tell Waai Fu that if one day she hears that Huai Tianpei is 'dead,' then she should come to Jade Gate to find me. I will change my ways and try to be a good father again."
"--You'll have to say that to Waai Fu yourself." Lee smiled broadly upon hearing this, his expression somewhat teasing, but he didn't refuse Huai Tianpei's request. In high spirits, Lee immediately teased:
"I never imagined that Huai the Martial Arts Fanatic could be so cheesy. It seems that this Buddha's Palm' strike has served as a wake-up call for you."
"They've woken you up, it's time to wake up." Huai Tianpei also closed his eyes and nodded, not saying much, but every word they uttered was heard by the three people in the room.
Unbeknownst to them, Waai Fu had already closed his eyes tightly. Hong and A couldn't help but glance down at Waai Fu, but Waai Fu neither cried nor made a fuss, simply remaining silent. Unable to bear the atmosphere any longer, A couldn't help but ask:
"Um... Waai Fu, don't you have anything you want to say to your dad?"
"What's there to say? He's my father, and a martial arts master at that. I can't stop him from leaving if he wants to." Waai Fu seemed quite magnanimous, a faint smile appearing on his face, his eyes glistening with tears as he spoke.
"I never practiced martial arts to surpass him or to prove anything. I just wanted to demonstrate my own value and prove that I am absolutely no less than him in that respect."
"I'm so happy that he can start his life anew and realize his own value. I'm proud to have such a father."
Huai Tianpei's inner knot was untied, and at the moment he bowed his head in defeat, the person who also untied his inner knot was Waai Fu. Even though the image of her father in her memory had become very faint, when Huai Tianpei voluntarily broke free from the possession and displayed the demeanor of a grandmaster even in defeat, she also had an epiphany.
She had such a pure martial arts master as her father, and even though she was manipulated by her inner demons, she could still stick to her principles and not be bewitched by evil spirits.
She felt proud to have such a father, and at that moment, Waai Fu felt like she was Huai Tianpei's daughter.
Meanwhile, Chongyue was walking the streets of Lungmen with Nian and Xi. After inquiring about the two women's next plans, Chongyue nodded and said:
"So, you plan to continue following Director Chen Qi? If so, I can rest assured."
"Big brother, aren't you planning to come with us?" Nian also hoped that Chongyue could leave with them, but Chongyue just smiled and shook his head, saying:
"I still have some things to attend to... However, I think I can hand over my 'sword' to Brother Huai for safekeeping after he returns from his travels. I trust Brother Huai."
"At that time, I may come looking for you, and His Majesty the Emperor should allow me to leave Jade Gate temporarily."
"That Emperor of Great Yan is really annoying. We've done so much for them, and he's still not satisfied." Xi also made no attempt to hide her disgust for the Emperor of Great Yan at this moment. He ordered them around and doubted them, even though they had already done so much for Great Yan.
"Hopefully, this movie will ease the emperor's suspicions a little. But even if he's extremely paranoid, it doesn't matter, because Nian and I will always be by Chen Qi's side."
"... It seems that Xi-mei has found her place too."
However, when Chongyue Jianxi first expressed her dependence on a place or a person, she couldn't help but blink, a strange feeling rising in her heart.
Xi-mei... could it be that she has a strange affection for that Director Chen Qi? Upon thinking this, Chongyue's first reaction was not to object, but to consider the feasibility of this matter. After all, Xi-mei was the younger sister that Chongyue was most worried about. As the youngest of the twelve, Chongyue knew that Xi-mei was timid and distrustful of strangers. Now that he had finally found someone he could entrust with her, Chongyue couldn't help but think about it.
Aside from the matter of having multiple wives and concubines, it seems there's nothing wrong with that? Moreover, Chongyue felt that Xi probably wouldn't think about such matters between men and women. As a friend, she was enough to stay by Chen Qi's side, especially since Chen Qi was Feranmut whose lifespan matched that of Xi and the others, so there was no need to worry for at least ten thousand years.
"I think this matter is still open to discussion."
However, just as Chongyue was pondering, a familiar male voice suddenly rang out. The three of them turned around at the same time and found a familiar figure standing in front of them.
"Second brother (second elder brother)?!" X3
"Eldest brother, Nian sister, Xi sister." The second brother, who had transformed into a figure, greeted his three siblings. Seeing that Nian and Xi immediately hid behind Chongyue, the second brother sighed helplessly and said:
"Don't worry, this body I created for myself while traveling in the mortal realm is still a remnant soul. With your abilities, you can shatter my remnant soul at any time."
"But I'm not here to fight. I'm here to ask you for a favor, about something very important."
After speaking, the second brother turned his gaze to Chongyue. Although he was only close to Ling and Shu, he still respected Chongyue. He just didn't understand why his eldest brother wanted to seal away the "Feranmut" part.
"Brother, I have a favor to ask, it concerns Director Chen Qi."
"... Second brother, if you wish to inquire about the Buddha's Palm, then I have nothing to say." Chongyue replied casually, and his second brother shook his head and immediately said:
"It's not because of this. I accept defeat wholeheartedly. But I have something more important I want to verify."
"Big brother, Nian sister, Xi sister, haven't you noticed that Director Chen Qi seems to have some common ground with us? I want to verify this. Just verify it once and for all. If I make any other moves, you can eliminate this traitor at any time."
Upon hearing the second brother's words, the three of them quickly recalled the strange sense of closeness they had felt towards Chen Qi back then. Seeing how serious the second brother was, they all unanimously thought of the kind of possibility that the second brother was thinking of... a possibility that seemed impossible.
Chapter 235: Chen Qi, you really are the younger brother of the "Sui" family!
"What's wrong? What are you doing bringing me here?"
That night, Chen Qi was still thinking about going to Talulah's room, taking advantage of the opportunity that he had gained the approval of Wei Yenwu and his wife, so that he could fight Talulah again, and that Talulah would definitely be extremely obedient, when Xi He Nian broke into the room and took him into the world of the painting without saying a word.
Once inside the scroll, Chen Qi discovered that Chongyue was also there, as well as someone else he didn't recognize, but who he knew by glancing at the Mini-map.
"We meet again, Director Chen Qi." His second brother's attitude was even better than Chen Qi had expected. Chen Qi wasn't sure if it was because the "Buddha's Buddha's Palm had eroded his brother's confidence, or something else entirely...
"Or should I call you Tathagata? Chen Qi, Tathagata, are these the names you use when you walk among men? Do you have any other names?"
"No, I only have one name, Chen Qi. 'Tathagata' is not a name." Chen Qi was also startled by his second brother's words and immediately rejected his brother's guess. Chen Qi would not dare to call himself "Tathagata," not for any particular reason, but simply because it was a conditioned reflex of taboo as a transmigrator.
Upon hearing Chen Qi's question, Chongyue, who was standing to the side, also became interested. He immediately cupped his hands in greeting to Chen Qi and asked humbly, "Then, Director Chen Qi, what is your understanding of Tathagata?"
"The Tathagata Buddha, and Buddha resides in people's hearts. In other words, anyone who has Buddha in their heart can be the Tathagata." Chen Qi still respected Chongyue and, based on his understanding of Buddhism, tried to explain:
"To save all sentient beings and to do good deeds, even those who do not believe in Buddhism can do the same things as the Buddha. To me, Tathagata is not a name, nor is it a symbol of any particular Buddha. Anyone who does good deeds can become Tathagata."
"Buddha resides in people's hearts... Well said." Chongyue was very satisfied with Chen Qi's explanation, as it was the answer that best met his expectations. However, he still wanted to hear Chen Qi explain, after all, he was the only one in this world who knew the "Buddha's Palm."
In a sense, in the eyes of Chongyue and others, Chen Qi, who created this move, is "Buddha" Tathagata. However, Chen Qi's answer reveals the essence of "Buddha's Palm," which is the requirement of "Buddha's heart" for the user.
"... You're actually quite benevolent, aren't you? It's strange that someone like you harbors no resentment." The second brother was also somewhat bewildered by Chen Qi's words. At this moment, Nian and Xi also unanimously expressed their disdain for their second brother. Nian said without any politeness:
"Don't confuse Chen Qi with you, Second Brother. Chen Qi, like Eldest Brother, has sealed away part of his Feranmut's power. His cultivation level is much higher than yours."
"If it weren't for you, we wouldn't be in this predicament, constantly being monitored!" Xi was even more impolite. Although she was afraid of her second brother, with her eldest brother and Chen Qi backing her up, she now had the confidence to criticize him.
"If it weren't for Chen Qi's guarantee, Nian and I would still be under surveillance by the Imperial Calendar Bureau's people. If you want to rebel, why drag us into it?"
"Ridiculous." However, the second brother was equally unkind. Even though he was only a remnant soul, he still frightened Nian and Xi so much that they trembled and hid behind Chen Qi and Chongyue.
"Do you really think that if we don't take action, the Great Yan will let us go? We still have the power we hold, and the Great Yan keeps pushing us to do this and that. If one day they want to take away our power, will we still have a chance to resist?"
"We must have enough power to resist so that the Great Yan will continue to fear and respect us. Once they think we are under their control, we will be nothing more than fish on a chopping block."
"... But I'm not here to argue about that. I've already told you all that since you don't want to come, I won't force you."
The second brother then turned his gaze back to Chen Qi. Chen Qi immediately felt that his second brother's gaze was a bit strange, as if he wanted to see through him completely, which made him feel extremely uncomfortable.
Just as Chen Qi was wondering if his second brother was planning a big gamble and wanted to possess him, his second brother spoke to Chen Qi:
"Chen Qi... I'll call you that for now. May I borrow a drop of your blood?"
"My blood?" Chen Qi blinked involuntarily, but he quickly remembered that he now had "Blood of Sui" flowing through his veins! Looking at the four people present, all of whom were from the "Sui" camp, Chen Qi suddenly thought of a possibility.
--Could it be that their bloodline resonated with me, and they mistook him for their brother or sister?!