The Courtesan Sister, Exceptional Archery, Rising Status, Official Cavalier!

The guards of Gold-Seeking Guard were eagerly anticipating the arrival of the most beautiful courtesan at Blue-Heavens Long Dream Tower, a renowned beauty in the Jade City. It was usually difficult to catch a glimpse of her, but thanks to Central Lang General Xu Shaoqian, they had the opportunity to catch a glimpse of her.

Everyone was curious and buzzed with discussion. "Rumor has it that the courtesan's eyes are like a fox's, captivating and alluring, her waist like a willow, bewitching and enchanting. She is the most beautiful woman in the world; anyone who catches her eye will yearn for her day and night, hoping to see her again. If one ever has the chance to truly see her, then one will know whether the rumors are true or not."

"My uncle once saw that courtesan, and he told us that her beauty is truly rare. Any young member of our clan who wins her favor will undoubtedly possess exceptional talent."

"Rumor has it that this woman possesses bewitching skills, making men yearn for her so intensely they'd give their fortunes, just to catch a glimpse of her beauty." "We come from respectable backgrounds, and our knowledge and experience are certainly not lacking. But when it comes to truly stunning beauties, without a certain amount of fortuitous opportunity and serendipity, it's incredibly difficult to encounter one."

"The great poet Du Zhi of Dragon Court Prefecture once said, 'To encounter a beautiful woman by chance is like finding a bright pearl.' This means that even a fleeting glimpse of a truly beautiful woman is like finding a precious gem. To gain her favor is the greatest joy in the world."

"The Central Lang General is so powerful in terms of family background, talent, and ability that I am also captivated by him."

"Without that destiny, most people will never encounter a truly stunning beauty in their entire lives, let alone have her grace their presence."

"Brothers," Li Xian overheard, "If we're talking about absolute beauties, there's certainly more than just this one in Jade City. We may not be able to see her in person, but we've all seen truly stunning beauties." He thought to himself, "As for luck, it's hard to say whether I, Li Xian, am fortunate or unfortunate. On the one hand, I've faced countless life-or-death situations and suffered many misfortunes. On the other hand, I've risen from a lowly servant to experience the wonders of martial arts and climbed my way to where I am today. But as for romantic fortune, it's certainly not insignificant. I've encountered quite a few beautiful women of different styles! A hundred flowers in a hundred varieties, each with its own unique charm. But the more beautiful someone is, the more extraordinary the methods and abilities required to maintain that beauty. This courtesan must be no ordinary woman!"

Curiosity arose.

Today, Tailstreet Marquis Wu Station of Westwind Street is closed. Patrol duties have been assigned to Marquis Wu Station in the middle of Westwind Street, Marquis Wu Station at the beginning of Westwind Street, and many other Mid-Marquis Wu Station and Small Marquis Wu Station.

The imperial Cavalier, Gold Steward, and others gathered around to watch the spectacle, creating a lively atmosphere.

Polo is still divided into two teams, "red" and "black." The training ground is quite spacious, allowing the horses to run freely. There is a drum on each side; a point is scored by hitting the ball and striking the opponent's drum, causing a loud, resounding beat.

That drumming was no ordinary sound.

The drumhead is made from the hide of a "mythical beast, Thunder Offender." The hide is tougher than iron and extremely difficult to strike. Even if an ordinary man swings the drumstick with all his might, it's as if he's hitting a wall of bronze and iron. Instead, he injures his arm, and the drum doesn't produce a single sound.

It requires the application of martial arts techniques to resonate the drum from within. This is a difficult task even for skilled polo players. They must overcome numerous obstacles and challenges to hit the drum with the polo ball and ensure that the drum resonates.

Although the rules are simple, they embody martial arts, adaptability, horsemanship, agility, teamwork, and collaboration... all at once. The polo tournament is highly regarded in Jade City, attracting spectators from all walks of life, from ordinary Jade Citizen and tourists to the Aristocratic Clan families, influential figures, and even those from the Heavenly Pivot. It is a grand event showcasing the prosperity of Jade City.

Today's polo match was organized by Xu Shaoqian. It turns out... he captured Li Hengfeng and retrieved Rouge. He then took him to the courtesan for her to decide his fate. Whether out of kindness or something else, the courtesan spared Li Hengfeng's life, only imprisoning him to repent.

Taking the opportunity, Xu Shaoqian demonstrated his bravery by recounting how he arranged for the Gold-Seeking Guard to capture the thief, how the Gold-Seeking Guard were exceptionally brave, and how cunning the thief was. Finally, he invited the courtesan to come to the training ground to watch the polo match if she had the time.

Seeing that she couldn't refuse, the courtesan agreed. And so, this scene unfolded. Xu Shaoqian was skilled in martial arts and a master polo player. His poise on the horse track was unparalleled, and he hoped to win the beauty's heart through this.

Now, the polo match began.

Xu Shaoqian led the red-clad team, galloping across the training ground, displaying their prowess. The Gold-Seeking Guard, either out of consideration for personal relationships or because they were no match for him, were repeatedly crushed by him, becoming mere supporting characters. Every time Xu Shaoqian scored a point, he would look towards the southeast.

There was a makeshift pavilion. It was covered with light gauze curtains, a pale pink hue, swaying gently in the breeze. Sometimes a gap would peek out, revealing glimpses of a beautiful woman's skirt and fair arms inside, but her true face was always only partially revealed, stirring the heart and inspiring endless daydreams.

The curtains were slightly seeping through, allowing a glimpse of the beautiful woman's figure. Her movements and postures were vaguely discernible. The courtesan lay on her side on the bed, her figure graceful and voluptuous. A jade pet lay before her, and she was gently stroking it.

Every time Xu Shaoqian a goal, the courtesan would clap softly. Whenever Xu Shaoqian saw the beauty clap, he would shudder, his Intent-Qi soaring to the sky. He would raise his horse pole high, roaring in all directions, displaying his mighty power.

Li Xian mingled among the onlookers, thinking, "Xu Shaoqian's intentions are too obvious; he's stealing the spotlight all by himself. I wonder if the courtesan will fall for it."

He observed for a moment, then lost interest. Glancing out of the corner of his eye at the pale pink curtains, he saw the alluring figure of the woman and, recalling various rumors, thought to himself, "Putting everything else aside, this figure alone is quite intriguing. Jade City may be a large city with many beautiful women, but those who can truly be called stunning beauties are very, very few." For a moment, curiosity led him to secretly use his Double Pupils. But then he thought again; his immediate priority was to securely become Gold-Seeking Guard). Drinking Essence Soup daily and Essence Consumption meat monthly, such matters of romance and pleasure were utterly irrelevant.

Even if this courtesan is beautiful, what does she have to do with him? If he were to peer into her with his Double Pupils, it would only alert him and draw his attention, which would be even more unwise. Li Xian Intestine-Turning Narrow Passage, "Have I, Li Xian, never encountered such beauty before? A woman like this is extremely dangerous. It's best to avoid any contact!"

After observing the surroundings, he realized his seat was superfluous and placed in an inconspicuous spot. He then quietly left, unnoticed by anyone.

Li Xian then quietly left the training ground. After walking several miles and turning a corner, the cheers and shouts gradually faded. He thought, "I've been practicing three martial arts diligently these past few days and am quite exhausted. I should take this opportunity to rest for half an hour before continuing my training."

I found a secluded garden. I jumped onto a large tree, lay down in the canopy, closed my eyes, and drifted off to sleep, letting all my fatigue dissipate. It was a very comfortable nap, with a gentle breeze, birdsong, and the fragrance of flowers. Gold-Seeking Guard usually gathered at the drill ground, but this place was quiet and deserted, with no one to disturb me.

Li Xian used his arm as a pillow, the dense canopy of the tree like a bed curtain, blocking out the sun. Although some dappled sunlight filtered through the leaves, it still shone on him, adding warmth and making him even more comfortable.

Stealing a moment of leisure from his busy schedule, Li Xian truly relaxed and enjoyed the tranquility. He murmured to himself, "You have your beautiful concubines, and I have my rotten branch couch. Hehe, nobody bothers anyone. I'll get a good night's sleep now."

A strand of hair remained in the training ground; any unusual activity would be immediately apparent. Without a care in the world, he closed his eyes and fell asleep.

Half an hour later, their energy was high and their fatigue had slightly subsided. The Perfect Aspect possessed extraordinary strength and was extremely difficult to manipulate. Wen Caishang, also Perfect Aspect, was no exception. However, after their struggle, they could be described as...

Li Xian cleared his mind of all distractions, focusing intently on his hair. He noticed the training ground was still open, and the polo match was already in its second half. Since Li Xian was of low status and tried his best to keep a low profile, no one paid him any attention.

He washed his face with water, drew his sword, and began to diligently practice martial arts.

[Heavenly Pivot Saber Method]

[Proficiency: 921/1000 Proficiency]

[Stone-Pushing Palm Method]

[Proficiency: 132/1500 Minor Accomplishment]

[Suffering Body Scripture]

[Proficiency: 802/1000 Proficiency]

As the saying goes, Heaven rewards those who persevere. After half a month of arduous practice, Li Xian saw results. The assessment standard was "Minor Accomplishment," which is the Minor Accomplishment most Gold-Seeking Guard's skill. Li Xian had achieved his goal, but he dared not relax. He continued to work diligently and strive forward until the Dust Settled!

The Heavenly Pivot Saber Method is ever-changing, with various sword stances executed with ease. Li Xian wields his sword with a unique style, elegant and graceful. Then there's the Stone-Pushing Palm Method, the Suffering Body Scripture... One reaps what one sows.

[Bone-Sculpting Embryo]

[Proficiency: 17/100]

During this two-week period, drinking the Essence Soup daily will yield more than fifteen strands of Heaven and Earth Essence. Through Consumption and strengthening, this can be increased to nearly thirty strands, with about twenty strands retained.

Li Xian practiced martial arts diligently every day. He drank the Essence Soup every day, which he could digest completely on the same day. In this way, over the past half month, he had digested a total of 324 strands. His progress in Bone-Sculpting Embryo was steadily advancing.

Li Xian was overjoyed, thinking, "Although I lack resources and often fail to obtain Essence Treasure, acquiring the art of Consumption them can compensate for my lack of resources! The Gold-Seeking Guard alone makes it worth my utmost effort!"

The Second Martial Realm, Bone-Sculpting Embryo, is divided into six levels. Li Xian has reached the second level; his bones are crystalline and exude a cool sensation. Feeling comfortable all over, Li Xian's sword aura is even stronger, and his strength is even more formidable.

A vertical mark between his brows shone brightly, adding to his mysterious appearance, which was completely concealed by the mask. Li Xian diligently practiced martial arts and did everything in his power to achieve his goals.

[Proficiency +1]

[Proficiency +1]

Half an hour later, Li Xian was in high spirits, unleashing the Heavenly Pivot Saber Method. Suddenly, he sensed something and heard footsteps in the distance. It was Xu Shaoqian, who had been galloping on the horse track, with a woman in a green dress walking beside him.

The woman was petite, with a face made up, delicate features, and a slightly square face, but her eyes were very lively. She was Liang Xiaoshi, the personal maid of Tao Xiangrong, the most beautiful courtesan of Blue-Heavens Long Dream Tower.

Xu Shaoqian laughed and said, "Xiaoshi lady Shi, Xiangrong to come and watch the polo match, I'm afraid you'll have to mediate and persuade him, won't you?"

Liang Xiaoshi said, "Of course. My sister and I said that if you want to truly appreciate a man's character, you have to see it in the riding arena. If he can tame a wild horse, you can know his ability; if he can defeat his opponent, you can see his ambition."

Liang Xiaoshi paused slightly, then said, "I also mentioned that the Central Lang General of the Gold-Seeking Guard is among the best of the best. Sister, you might want to consider it." Xu Shaoqian asked, "What did Xiangrong say?" Liang Xiaoshi replied, "Sister said that the Central Lang General the Gold-Seeking Guard is a rare and exceptional man, a true dragon and tiger among men."

It turns out that... Xu Shaoqian, in order to get close to Tao Xiangrong, the most beautiful courtesan of Blue-Heavens Long Dream Tower, first approached her maid Liang Xiaoshi. After cultivating a good relationship with Liang Xiaoshi Liang Xiaoshi, he used her to convey information and find out Tao Xiangrong.

During the intermission, Xu Shaoqian invited Tao Xiangrong to visit Marquis Wu Station together, introducing her to Marquis Wu Station area and subtly revealing the status and power of the General of the Central Lang General. Tao Xiangrong replied that she had caught a cold last night and felt a little tired, so she wanted to rest for a while and would admire Xu Shaoqian's demeanor later.

Xu Shaoqian's invitation fell through. After Tao Xiangrong fell asleep, he invited Liang Xiaoshi to accompany him, hoping to find out about Tao Xiangrong's recent situation and feelings. Upon receiving this reply, Xu Shaoqian smiled confidently, puffing out his chest and exuding an air of Intent-Qi. Yet, he remained calm and composed; his demeanor and bearing were those of a dragon among men, and he would not lose his composure because of a small compliment.

Liang Xiaoshi said, "General Xu, don't say I didn't give you a heads-up. My sister is no ordinary woman; a single polo match is far from enough to win her favor."

Xu Shaoqian confidently declared, "Such a beauty is worth pursuing with all my might. I know, of course, that it won't be easy to obtain. But I'm confident I can make her belong solely to me, body and soul!"

Liang Xiaoshi asked, "I wonder how skilled General Xu Archery?" Xu Shaoqian replied, "How could the men of my army be lacking in Archery?"

Liang Xiaoshi said, "That's settled then. I'll tell you a secret in secret. I'm only telling you because I see you have great potential." Xu Shaoqian said, "Please speak."

Liang Xiaoshi said, "Although I've never seen my sister use her bow, she has a strange bow in her room, which she often gently polishes, cherishing it more than any cosmetic. Her Archery must be quite good. She once said that her man must be a better Archery than her. If he can't even do that, no matter how talented or Transcendence Beyond Mortality, it's all in vain."

Xu Shaoqian chuckled, "Hahaha, what's so difficult about that?" Liang Xiaoshi frowned, about to remind Xu Shaoqian not to overlook Tao Xiangrong Archery of her beauty. She served Tao Xiangrong closely and knew that this older sister was unfathomable. Blue-Heavens Long Dream Tower was a unique tower in this world, and the most beautiful woman in the tower was no ordinary person. But suddenly, they heard the whistling of swords in the distance.

Liang Xiaoshi asked curiously, "General Xu, why is someone practicing swordsmanship here? I noticed he's not dressed in Tiger-Python Uniform, but he's wearing a mask. Could he be the perpetrator?" Xu Shaoqian retorted, "How dare you commit violence in my Marquis Wu Station!" His brow furrowed, he strode forward, about to attack. Suddenly, he saw the man displaying the "Heavenly Pivot Saber Method," and the swordplay was smooth and natural, showing considerable skill. If he were a villain, how could he know the Heavenly Pivot Saber Method?

Xu Shaoqian, momentarily confused, suppressed his emotions and calmly summoned Li Xian. Li Xian sheathed his sword and called out, "Xu Central Lang General!"

Liang Xiaoshi asked, "Is this person Gold-Seeking Guard?" Xu Shaoqian then remembered who "Li Xian" was, but had forgotten his name, and asked, "You are that... that..."

Li Xian said, "My surname is Li, and my given name is Xian."

Xu Shaoqian frowned and said, "I remember now, you don't watch polo, so why are you here?"

Li Xian said, "I once assisted Xu Central Lang General capturing thieves. The Central Lang General gave me the opportunity to temporarily Probationary Cavalier. If I pass the assessment in half a month, I will become a full-fledged Cavalier. Given the Central Lang General's high regard, this is a rare opportunity, and I dare not slack off. Therefore, whenever I have time, I practice martial arts. Although polo is exciting, I wish I could be in two places at once to watch it. But ultimately, I don't have that Divine Ability; I can only choose one."

Xu Shaoqian's brow relaxed slightly, thinking, "This person certainly knows how to talk."

Liang Xiaoshi looked Li Xian up and down, and asked curiously, "Then why are you wearing a mask?"

Li Xian used his ugly appearance as an excuse. Liang Xiaoshi believed him, thinking that if someone was so ugly that they needed a mask to hide it, their face must be terrifying. She then asked, "Xu Central Lang General, I seem to remember that the Gold-Seeking Guard is under the jurisdiction of Heavenly Pivot, and appointed by Heavenly Pivot, right? This temporary Cavalier is the first time I've heard of it." Xu Shaoqian thought to himself, "I'm on good terms with Liang Xiaoshi, and I used this to get close to Xiangrong every means to get this beauty. This Li Xian suddenly appeared; if I don't handle it properly, I wonder how Liang Xiaoshi will tell Tao Xiangrong about this."

He then said, "What Xiaoshi said is correct. The Gold-Seeking Guard) are generally appointed by the Heavenly Pivot). Although I am Central Lang General, I have no position of recruitment, but I do have the right to recommend. If I encounter talented individuals, I can recommend them to the court. This young brother, Li Xian, has shown remarkable performance in the capture of the eccentric thief Li Hengfeng." "He happens to want to join the Gold-Seeking Guard. After a brief look, I see he has the qualifications, so I'll give him a chance. He'll serve as Probationary Cavalier for a month. If his performance is satisfactory and he passes the assessment, I will naturally recommend him."

Liang Xiaoshi praised, "I never imagined General Xu had such magnanimity. I will tell my sister about this; she will surely praise you for your ability to recognize and utilize talent, and for your broad-mindedness."

Xu Shaoqian dismissed the matter, saying, "It's nothing. He's quite talented, and I was just thinking of giving him a helping hand."

Li Xian cupped his hands and said, "I will certainly not fail Xu Central Lang General's expectations!"

Xu Shaoqian thought impatiently, "Who expects Rogue Person from you, you lazy bum?" But aloud he said earnestly, "It's good that you've come to this realization. But I must tell you in advance that the verification process is by no means easy. If you can't pass, even if I wanted to help you, there's nothing I can do. We'll just have to deal with whatever happens." With that, he waved his hand and walked away with Liang Xiaoshi.

Having achieved his goal, Li Xian continued to hone his martial arts skills by drawing his sword.

It turned out that Li Xian had planted seeds in her hair beforehand, allowing her to witness Xu Shaoqian and Liang Xiaoshi's conversation. She realized, "Li Hengfeng was arrested by the Gold-Seeking Guard for stealing the courtesan's rouge. This Xu Shaoqian is young and impetuous, and loves beautiful women, hence he's capable of doing the impossible for them. My Probationary Cavalier is probably also related to this."

Then he thought, "A man like him, a man of high status, is likely to forget me quickly. Even if I pass the verification in half a month, if Xu Shaoqian has completely forgotten me, how can he recommend me? I need to give him a heads-up beforehand and find a way to make him too embarrassed to forget."

He then deliberately displayed the "Heavenly Pivot Saber Method," making a sudden and powerful display. As the two approached during their stroll in the garden, they noticed him. Li Xian then deliberately brought up the matter of Probationary Cavalier in front of "Liang Xiaoshi."

This piqued Liang Xiaoshi's curiosity, prompting her to ask questions.

Xu Shaoqian, out of pride, admitted it, making it even harder to refuse later. Li Xian watched the two walk away, gripping his sword tightly, thinking, "If he ultimately refuses, there's nothing I can do. I've done my best; the rest... I can only try my best!"

Intent Infusion, condensed into the blade's edge.

Li Xian's sword trembled, emitting a deep, buzzing sound.

With a single slash, the blade surged like rolling waves; with a sweeping return, its power blazed like a raging storm. A single strike could unleash dozens of variations in an instant. The Heavenly Pivot Saber Method uses the body as its pivot, embracing the shifts of Yin and Yang. Li Xian, well-versed in martial arts principles, could apply these principles in other ways as well.

On the eighteenth day, Li Xian had achieved Minor Accomplishment of mastery in all three martial arts styles. On the nineteenth day, Li Xian refused to slacken, making it a regular practice to be on duty during the day and practice martial arts at night. On the twentieth, twenty-first, and twenty-second days...

He had already mastered the three martial arts techniques to Minor Accomplishment, and was making progress every day and every moment.

Time flows like a river, never ceasing day or night.

Li Xian had been tempered and refined through countless trials. His heart was as firm as iron, and his spirit as deep as an abyss. The ridicule, mockery, slander, and contempt of others could not sway him in the slightest. He could only draw his sword and strike with his palm! The one-month deadline quietly arrived.

Now, on this day...

The Gold-Seeking Guard) assessment began, with members of the Heavenly Pivot (Heavenly Pivot) personally supervising. Gold-Seeking Guard's Central Lang General Xu Shaoqian and Lang General Lei Chong were both present at the training ground. The scene was quite grand. The assessment covered various items including "horse riding," "archery," "martial arts," "Heavenly Pivot Saber Method," "Stone-Pushing Palm Method," and "Suffering Body Scripture."

Li Xian participated in the verification process. Li Xian's riding skills were relatively weak, Gold-Seeking Guard were all "Bloodline Horse," with excellent leg strength, stamina, and wildness. Li Xian served as Probationary Cavalier for a month, on duty every day, but rarely encountered any horses.

But relying entirely on his immense strength, he subdued the horse on the spot, then galloped away, successfully passing the test. As for archery and martial arts, both were Li Xian's forte. Li Xian's arrows never missed; his mounted archery, fixed-point shooting, long-range shooting, and evasive shooting were all incredibly skillful. He didn't deliberately show off his skills, but even a slight display was enough to elicit gasps of amazement.

Xu Shaoqian, the people of Heavenly Pivot, and all the Gold-Seeking Guard cheered loudly. Every time Li Xian shot an arrow, the arrow slicing through the air, and the eyes of onlookers were inexplicably drawn to it. For a time, he overshadowed Bai Zhenglong, Li Jian, Zhou Zheng, and others, and was recognized as the best Archery. His fame was unparalleled. However, this also aroused jealousy and slander.

Li Xian was merely Probationary Cavalier, several ranks lower than the sons of the Aristocratic Clan. He was often looked down upon by these Aristocratic Clan masters, who frequently mocked and ridiculed him, showing utter contempt. They greatly despised Li Xian. Yet now Archery were far inferior to Li Xian's, how could Qi Ingestion?

However, Central Lang General Xu Shaoqian, recalling Liang Xiaoshi's words, couldn't resist the urge to try his hand at archery and immediately took up his bow to demonstrate his Archery. His Archery was also quite remarkable; once he released an arrow, he astonished the audience, drawing cheers from all sides. He lacked Li Xian's carefree ease; his arrows were more forceful, fierce, and cunning.

Archery assessment is far from sufficient to demonstrate Li Xian's Archery prowess. Based on this one match alone, it's difficult for outsiders to judge who is stronger or weaker. However, Xu Shaoqian is extremely confident, believing that his Archery are no less than others.

In the martial arts competition, Li Xian was also unstoppable. Gold-Seeking Guard had no shortage of Essence Treasure, with daily Essence Soup and monthly meals Essence Treasure them, the ordinary Cavalier were mostly at the First Realm, far from being Li Xian's match.

Several arrogant and Cavalier, relying on their high status, often verbally abused and insulted Li Xian. They encountered Li Xian on this mission. Li Xian remained calm and composed, but his actions were decisive, easily breaking their bones and tendons, successfully teaching them a lesson.

In this way, all the checks were successfully completed.

When it came to the three tests— the Heavenly Pivot Saber Method, the Stone-Pushing Palm Method, and the Suffering Body Scripture — Li Xian's blade technique was natural, his palm technique was exquisite, and his body experience was profound. What he displayed even surpassed most of the Gold-Seeking Guard. Naturally, he passed smoothly.

Xu Shaoqian was astonished. After Li Xian finished all three demonstrations, he was even more incredulous, wondering if he was seeing things. He then asked Li Xian to try again, demonstrating his mastery of the three martial arts techniques one by one. This time, he observed carefully and intently. The result confirmed his suspicions even Wu Cuo. Li Xian had indeed reached the Minor Accomplishment mastery level, and in each aspect, he had reached the standard of the Gold-Seeking Guard. He had even surpassed it!

When Xu Shaoqian learned that Li Xian had actually mastered all three martial arts techniques to Minor Accomplishment in just one month, he was quite astonished. He had no intention of recruiting Li Xian, but this situation was unexpected. He was always proud and unwilling to easily break his promise, and considering the matter of Liang Xiaoshi, he had no choice but to agree. He would write a letter of recommendation and submit it to Heavenly Pivot the next day.

Li Xian worked diligently day and night for over a month and finally achieved his goal.

Two days after the verification, Heavenly Pivot replied with the single word "Approved".

Li Xian became a formal Cavalier of the Gold-Seeking Guard. His official Cavalier, including Tiger-Python Uniform, waist token, black armor, horizontal sword, and warhorse, was already being prepared for him!