Gathering of Great Guests, Immortal Peach Assembly, Xiangrong's Plea, the Golden Longevity Lock

Tao Xiangrong said again, "Xiangrong you won't take offense, young master. Please come aboard and we can talk." Her soft and gentle voice rippled across the Heart Lake and stirred the heartstrings. This woman was quite good at manipulating people's emotions. Her charm was innate. Just by hearing her soft voice, one could tell that she was extremely beautiful.

Seeing that it was unavoidable, Li Xian looked at Liang Xiaoshi. Liang Xiaoshi was very indignant, but dared not delay the important matter, so she took a small step back, meaning: I'm afraid of you, please don't be angry anymore.

Li Xian said, "So it's Sister Xiangrong. Why didn't Xiangrong say so sooner? If I had known it was Sister Xiangrong see me, even if I had to jump into the river and wash myself thoroughly, I wouldn't have dared to be angry." He leaped, a very low leap, his legs stretched out, Inner Steam feet touching the water. He gave a quick jolt, then stepped Leap Ascension the water again and landed steadily on the boat. The mud on his feet had been washed away by the river water in that instant. Liang Xiaoshi, hearing Li Xian's words, felt great disdain. She thought, "My sister doesn't even look down on the Central Lang General. If she weren't forced by circumstances, how could she allow you, a mere servant, to be so obsequious here? How shameless! But someone Xiangrong Sister Xiangrong, no matter how outrageous you are, will never favor you." She snorted lightly, thinking of Li Xian. Known for his "Handsome Sideburns, Ugly Face," though his figure was dashing and his martial arts were graceful, the mask concealed a rare ugly face, making him even more unpleasant and disliked. Fearing a disagreement might lead to Li Xian leaving again and incurring her sister's scolding, she simply turned her head away. The small boat contained a cabin without a door, only pale pink gauze curtains hanging inside. The candlelight flickered, and a graceful figure could be vaguely seen. Tao Xiangrong through the curtain at Li Xian Li Xian, and hearing his sweet words, her face darkened with resentment. She thought, "Last time I saw you, you were terrified of me, wishing we had nothing to do with each other. Now, you're spouting sweet words. It's surely not sincere. With a single word from Tao Xiangrong, countless men would fight for me. Yet you, you little rascal, seem unwilling in every way."

She said softly, "Now that you're on board, please come inside for a chat. Xiaoshi, let's set sail." Liang Xiaoshi pulled up the boat rope and slapped the water with her palm. The boat sailed away from the shore and drifted lightly along the river.

Jade City was extremely wealthy, with thriving commerce and a complex network of waterways. This was the "Dragon-Viewing River," which flowed into the East Sea, and was known as "the place where one can see the dragon and the sea." Willows lined both sides of the river, creating a beautiful scene. The pavilions and palaces along the banks were a testament to the craftsmanship of the artisans, with red, green, blue, and purple buildings coming into view one after another. As Li Xian saw that they were getting further from the shore, he sat down on the spot and did not go into the cabin. He said politely, "Li Xian is a rough man and dares not go inside. Let's talk here." Tao Xiangrong said helplessly, "Please come in, young master. I... Xiangrong you. Xiangrong easily..." Li Xian had no choice but to lift the curtain and go inside, smelling a light fragrance.

The boat's exterior was simple and elegant, but the interior was anything but sloppy. In front was a red jade table, where Tao Xiangrong sat with her knees bent, brewing tea. The zither she had just played was now placed behind her.

Tao Xiangrong dressed elegantly, in a purple strapless, narrow-waisted gauze skirt with a unique design and a high slit. Her feet were wrapped in black silk, embroidered with plum blossoms and phoenixes in gold thread. Her embroidered Embroidered Shoes, which had been removed, were neatly placed beside her on the table. The shoes were embroidered with pearls, combining allure and elegance. Her hair was adorned with gold and jade, and her makeup was exquisite. Her face was covered by a light veil, but the outline of her face, an oval shape, could still be vaguely seen.

This garment, named "Violet Orchid Fragrant Robe," was sewn by a master craftsman, its design unlike any other. Tao Xiangrong, plump and graceful, sat with her knees bent, the hem of her skirt covering her legs. However, a slit at the waist revealed her silk-bound feet.

It was truly a sight to behold, a sight one could never tire of. One longed to pull it into one's arms, to explore the secrets hidden within its garments, and to savor its beauty. Li Xian glanced at it, taking in every detail, his eyes darting around as he analyzed the situation.

She gently pushed the teacup towards him and said, "Young master, please have some tea."

Li Xian sat down opposite her, finished his tea, and said, "Sister Xiangrong, it's been a long time." Tao Xiangrong smiled and said, "Little Brother Li, it's been a long time." Li Xian said, "I Xiangrong to invite me to this table?" Tao Xiangrong rested her chin on her hand, her beautiful eyes scrutinizing Li Xian. She leaned closer, her delicate fragrance wafting over him, and said, "Can't you invite Little Brother Li to meet if you have nothing else to do, Sister?"

Tao Xiangrong leisurely brewed tea and casually asked, "How old is your younger brother?" Li Xian replied, "Fang Er years old."

Tao Xiangrong asked, "Do you have a wife or concubines?" Li Xian thought to himself, "I wonder if Madam counts? This Tao Xiangrong has something to ask of me, but she's delaying getting to the point. She's trying to use her beauty to tempt me first. Once I'm softened and confused, even if she stabs me in the back, I'd probably be happy to oblige. How can I be so obedient and take the bait?" He said, "Why does Sister ask this? Could it be that you've come specifically to play matchmaker for me?"

Tao Xiangrong and chuckled, "Although I didn't come here specifically for this purpose, if my younger brother wishes, it wouldn't be out of the question. I might as well act as a matchmaker."

Li Xian said, "Oh?" Tao Xiangrong said, "My Blue-Heavens Long Dream Tower has many beautiful women. Your ability to catch thieves and murderers is renowned throughout Jade City; you are a man of true skill and ability. If I were to act as a matchmaker, some sisters would be willing to get to know you, but whether it will lead to marriage or a breakup, I cannot guarantee. If you continue to be so indifferent, even if beauties are attracted to you, you will push them away."

Li Xian said, "I was born with this temperament, and it's hard to change. Moreover, I was born ugly, and I've been disliked by many women throughout my life. When I was three years old, I frightened the neighbor's girl so much that she cried loudly. My relatives and friends also dislike me in every way. When I look in the mirror, I'm even startled by my own appearance. Over time, this has become my temperament. I think you should forget about my sister's matchmaking; it will most likely fall apart."

Tao Xiangrong gritted her teeth slightly, thinking, "This boy is born ugly, so he has no hope of marriage and therefore no interest in matters of love. This is difficult to handle." She then said, "In your opinion, sister, it's not like that. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses. Although Brother Li is plain-looking, he has amazing skills. If he uses his strengths, he might be able to win the heart of a beauty. He just needs to broaden his mind."

Li Xian said, "Alright, let's not talk about this anymore. Sister Xiangrong, what exactly do you want?"

Tao Xiangrong originally intended to have a conversation to explore Li Xian's desires and needs before discussing seeking help. She deliberately set the meeting place on a lone boat on the river, hoping to talk slowly and explore gradually. She was skilled in matters of romance, so she started with romance to slowly open up the topic. However, Li Xian was not familiar with romance, and the topic was very difficult to advance.

Now, if she were to ask directly, Tao Xiangrong unsure how to proceed. Tao Xiangrong, and said with a wry smile, "Alright, alright. Sister has something she needs your help with."

Li Xian said, "I see, that's truly unexpected!" He nodded and drank his tea. Tao Xiangrong blushed upon hearing the word "unexpected." She felt Li Xian was subtly mocking her, implying she wasn't frank enough. Actively seeking someone meant either asking for help or seeking revenge. Since there was no enmity, it must be seeking help. Tao Xiangrong with good looks and a noble status; if she showed even a hint of interest, martial arts techniques, treasures... would immediately be presented to her. If she needed help with something important, the other party would often go to great lengths, vying for the opportunity to do her a favor. In the end, it often turned from "she asking for favors" to "others asking for favors from her."

Today, however, things have turned out the opposite.

Li Xian said, "Since Sister Rong has a Xiangrong ask, Li Xian shouldn't remain indifferent. But if I may ask, why not seek help from Xu Shaoqian Xu Central Lang General? His abilities far surpass those of a mere junior Gold Steward like myself."

Tao Xiangrong said, "In this matter... perhaps you are better than Xu Shaoqian. Xu Lang is handsome and exceptionally brave; he should have greater ambitions and aspirations. This small matter of Xiangrong is better handled by Brother Li Xian. Of course, Xiangrong not saying Brother Li Xian is bad; it's just that, in terms of the matter at hand, he's currently a bit lacking. But in the future, his achievements may not be inferior to Xu Lang's." Her words were subtly persuasive, gentle yet sharp, but because her voice was melodious, like a nightingale singing in the willows, it was difficult to get angry.

Li Xian bluntly asked, "I suppose it involves catching thieves and criminals. Can this be considered a private commission?" Tao Xiangrong and said, "Of course it's a private commission." Her expression was strange.

Li Xian asked, "Since this is a private commission, is there any payment?"

Liang Xiaoshi entered the cabin, angrily saying, "Sister, let's not argue with this brat. He's so arrogant. You asked him for help, which is a sign of respect, but he doesn't know what's good for him and actually... he's making things difficult for you in every way possible, as if he's the only one in the world who knows how to solve cases? Xu Shaoqian is a hundred times more capable than him. Even if you look down on Xu Shaoqian, you don't need to... you don't need to lower yourself to talk to someone like that."

Li Xian sipped his tea calmly and said, "So you're asking for my help but look down on me Li Xian? That's fine then. I'll trouble you two to return to shore by boat, and I'll slink away." He thought to himself, "Since I don't want any more entanglements, I might as well be straightforward. If it's a legitimate request, I, Li Xian Li Xian, will do my job for money, quick and easy. But if you want me, Li Xian, so adding you two won't make a difference." Liang Xiaoshi sneered and cursed, "Hmph, you really think you're someone important. My sister thinks that with just a word, Xu Shaoqian can put you down and do things for her. Asking you out now is giving you face, letting you, this ' Handsome Sideburns, Ugly Face fellow,' perform well. If you do well, a word from my sister to Xu Shaoqian will be a huge opportunity for you. You don't know what's good for you, so disrespectful." When she said "Handsome Sideburns, Ugly Face fellow," she emphasized the word "ugly-faced fellow."

Li Xian rose, speaking calmly, "You're right. Xu Central Lang General me great kindness. If he asks for my help, I will do so both publicly and privately. There's no need to use my authority to pressure him. If you two wish to use this method to get my help, it is indeed a feasible approach. In that case, I will return first and await Xu Central Lang General's orders. Until then, I'll take my leave."

"Having said this, I'm sure you two won't escort me back to shore. I'll just go back on my own then."

He strode briskly out of the cabin and saw several fishing boats on the distant riverbank. He figured he could use his lightness skill to cross and use one of the boats as a springboard back. Tao Xiangrong was startled and quickly said, "Young Master Li, wait!"

Li Xian had already leaped away. Liang Xiaoshi had been eavesdropping from outside the boat. Everyone who had ever spoken with Tao Xiangrong had always been compliant and never disobeyed. Li Xian's demand for payment, delivered in a calm manner, was perfectly acceptable. But to Liang Xiaoshi, it was entirely inappropriate, even bordering on "arrogance."

Tao Xiangrong flew out of the window, her purple dress like a dreamlike veil, her demeanor like a fairy flying to the moon. She was even faster than Li Xian Li Xian, catching up with him and grabbing his shoulder. Then, with a flick of her sleeve, Li Xian felt a sudden change and was already sitting in the cabin again.

Li Xian was secretly astonished. "This courtesan's abilities are incredibly profound; I can't fathom her true strength right now." He frowned and said, "Tao Xiangrong, the Tao Xiangrong of Blue-Heavens Long Dream Tower, possesses such formidable martial arts skills. It's truly amazing to have witnessed such a feat."

Tao Xiangrong said, "Young hero, please don't be angry." She brewed tea and brought it over, then called out, "Xiaoshi, your words were disrespectful. Apologize to this young hero. Since I asked him for a favor, what's wrong with him asking for payment?"

Liang Xiaoshi was taken aback, filled with resentment, but couldn't quite put her finger on what she had done wrong. She said, "I was rash and impudent, and I misspoke." Li Xian knew that he was of ordinary status, and what Liang Xiaoshi said was exactly what Tao Xiangrong. He thought to himself, "The top courtesan of the prestigious Blue-Heavens Long Dream Tower must have seen many young talents. It's normal for her to look down on me. Why should I care about your comments? But Tao Xiangrong is indeed facing a problem, otherwise she wouldn't be so resolute. If this matter can bring benefits, we should arrange everything as soon as possible. This way, we can extricate ourselves and obtain treasures at the same time, which is the safest option." He casually said, "Your eyes are on your own face. Whether you respect me or not is your own business. There's no need to put on airs."

Tao Xiangrong looked embarrassed and a little guilty, and said, "Xiaoshi was trained by me. Her words just now offended you, young hero. Xiangrong, also need to apologize." She sounded quite distant at this point.

Li Xian said, "No need for further words. Just explain what happened clearly. I will consider it. If I can resolve it, you will provide the reward and I will contribute my efforts. If I cannot resolve it, we will part ways amicably and leave without further entanglement. I hope you will not cause me any more trouble then."

Tao Xiangrong gritted her teeth slightly. She had never heard the words "stop pestering me." She was annoyed, but considering the seriousness of the matter, she sighed and said, "To be honest, seeking your help, young hero, was a last resort. Some time ago, the Blue-Heavens Long Dream Tower was organizing the ' Peach Banquet.' I wonder if you have heard of it?"

Li Xian said, "I have naturally heard of it." Tao Xiangrong explained in detail, "The Blue-Heavens Long Dream Tower has thirty-three heavens, within which is a Immortal Peach Orchard that yields seventy-two Immortal Peach each year. These Immortal Peach are also called 'Heavenly Peaches,' 'Immortal Peaches,' or 'Longevity Peaches,' and are first-rate treasures. After consuming them, one can significantly increase one's inner strength, lifespan, and physique. Furthermore, they contain a seventy-two-character ' Heaven-Flipping Formula,' making them among the most extraordinary skills. However, one must Appraisal Insight while eating the peaches. If someone can eat seventy-two in a row..." "The Heavenly Peach might offer a glimpse into the secrets of extraordinary skills. However, the truth of this matter is difficult to ascertain. But the delicious taste and fragrant aroma of the Immortal Peach are undeniable." "Every year when the Immortal Peach ripen, the Blue-Heavens Long Dream Tower picks them and sends Immortal Peach to powerful figures from all directions. Those who receive the Immortal Peach can participate in the Immortal Peach Assembly. This Immortal Peach Assembly is a place for exchange, sparring, peach tasting, and making friends. Although the event is grand, it is not particularly different from others; the Blue-Heavens Long Dream Tower merely provides the venue for heroes from all over the world to gather."

"The grandeur of that banquet is truly indescribable. Numerous heroes from all corners of the land attended. The Great Wu territory is vast, and beyond it lie many Great Wu kingdoms; how many heroes were there in the world! Many of these heroes were only known by name, never seen in person. It was a truly lively affair. Powerful figures from the Earth List of the powerful clans of Longxiong Circuit, Guanlong Circuit, Yunan Circuit, and Wanghe Circuit also participated."

"But after that Immortal Peach Assembly, something extremely important to Xiangrong vanished without a trace, and she didn't even notice it."

Li Xian asked, "What is it?"

Tao Xiangrong said, "It's... it's a lock." Li Xian asked, "A lock? What kind of lock?"

Tao Xiangrong said, "We'll talk about the specifics later." Li Xian asked, "Did you discover the lock was missing immediately after the banquet, or did you discover it was missing some time later?"

Tao Xiangrong said, "We noticed it immediately." Li Xian said, "In that case, it was most likely lost at the banquet. Please describe the details of the banquet in detail."

Tao Xiangrong nodded and said, "That grand banquet was a rare occasion, a gathering of heroes. At the start of the banquet, silver and Golden Crane greeted the guests. Auspicious tortoises carried blessings, and auspicious deer carried joy. Colorful birds formed a bridge, and luminous pearls shone like stars. Thus, the sun and moon shone through the heavens, countless stars appeared, Purple Qi Comes from the East, and auspicious omens surrounded us." Xiangrong, Xiangrong frail, was fortunate enough to participate and played music to add to the merriment. She played "Nanling Battle-Breaking Melody," captivating all the guests. This piece was leisurely and unremarkable, but suddenly, the Mountain-Moving Elder and the True Tiger Daoist burst into loud sobs. The Mountain-Moving Elder of the "Myriad Mountains Sect" of Guanlong Circuit and the True Tiger Daoist of the "Gold-Breaking Sect" of Longxiong Circuit —these two heroes, both once ranked on the Earth List and renowned figures in the martial world, were now disregarding their image and weeping so bitterly. The sound of their cries startled those around them, who were filled with astonishment. I also stopped playing my zither.

"At this moment, someone went to ask, and the Mountain-Moving Elder said, 'Hearing the zither music reminded me of my beloved from my youth. Her zither skills were unparalleled, and she often played music for me. It's a pity she passed away suddenly, and I can no longer hear her music.' The True Tiger Daoist said, 'My junior sister has been skilled in the zither since childhood, and this piece, Nanling Battle-Breaking Melody, is no less than this woman's. She died young, and I am thinking of her because of this.' The two elders were both sentimental people, and their weeping attracted each other's attention, leading to a great argument over the matter, with each insisting that their beloved's zither music was superior. In retrospect, it was truly unreasonable. If it were a matter of the two heroes' martial arts prowess, a contest could be held to determine who was better. But their beloved was already dead, so how could the depth of their zither skills be judged? Yet neither of them would give up."

The argument escalated to the point of almost coming to blows. Then someone suggested that since the dispute arose from the zither, it should also end with the zither. As the saying goes, seeing an object evokes memories of a person, and one is influenced by one's surroundings. The two elders' lovers from their youth are hard to find now, but having been exposed to music by them, they should have some understanding of its nuances. Therefore, the two elders each composed a piece for the zither, Xiangrong then played, and everyone commented. Whoever's melody was more beautiful, and whose lover was more beautiful, would be considered superior.

"The Immortal Peach Assembly is a place for exchange, a place to test and compare talents. This suggestion is perfect. Thus, the two seniors readily agreed and each spent an incense stick's time preparing. They hastily composed musical scores, which I will then play."

"After I finished playing two pieces, the winner was clear. The two masters invited me to sit beside them and continue playing for them, but Xiangrong politely declined." "The banquet continued as usual. After some time, Tao Kulin, ranked on the Longxiong Road's local list, had an epiphany and created the 'Peach Blossom Observation Skill' on the spot, demonstrating it to everyone. His martial arts were quite impressive; his palm strikes resembled 'sending peaches as a congratulatory gift,' extremely festive, stirring up clouds of mist. Everyone present cheered." "Whether it was Xiangrong's imagination or not, Tao Kulin's palm strikes seemed to be directed towards Xiangrong, almost imperceptibly. Clouds of mist gathered around Xiangrong, causing her to flutter and rustle."

After demonstrating his palm technique, he stared intently at me, wanting to invite me to practice the "Peach-Gazing Art." He explained that this "peach" was not the same as the peach in the story; the peach symbolized Perfection and good fortune, hence the Peach-Gazing Art was also called the Fortune-Viewing Technique, a combined palm technique. Logically speaking, Tao Kulin was a renowned figure in Longxiong Circuit, a Earth List Ranking, and his invitation was clearly out of Xiangrong fortune. Moreover, he was tall and imposing, possessing exceptional masculine spirit. However, Xiangrong that combined palm techniques inevitably involved the palms clashing together. Ultimately, Xiangrong was unwilling and politely declined.

Although disappointed, Senior Tao Kulin had no choice. He simply picked up his wine cup and said, "Since Miss Tao has no such intention, I will not force you. But would you refuse to drink a few cups with me?" Xiang Rong, Xiangrong to neglect her guest and to fulfill her duty as host, clinked glasses and drank. After a while Tao Kulin laughed loudly, "I'm drunk! I'm drunk! The wine doesn't intoxicate me, but the beauty does!" and strode away.

Tao Xiangrong carefully recalled every detail, leaving nothing out, and continued:

"Then there's the ' Heavenly Star Elder ' of the ' Southern Heaven Sect. ' In his youth, he was listed on the powerful and influential Earth List of Yunan Circuit, but later disappeared without a trace. Now that he's reappeared, he's probably even more capable. This man has a piercing gaze, always seemingly observing me intentionally or unintentionally. I noticed his gaze early on and met his eyes several times, each time giving him a slight smile."

Later, I realized that this person seemed to be secretly following me. Wherever I went, he went too. I felt resentful, so I took the initiative to go up to him and said, "Old sir, please have a drink." The Heavenly Star Elder turned around and left, and never looked at me again.

"Next came Lin Beijian from Wanghe Circuit, a very young ' Earth List Master.' In terms of style, although Lin Beijian wasn't from Jade City, he surpassed Xu Shaoqian by several levels. He took the initiative to approach me and invited me to a sword dance, saying he would perform for me. I accepted the invitation and watched him dance. His swordsmanship was elegant and his movements were profound; he was indeed a rare talent. Afterwards, he invited me for drinks, but I said I had important matters to attend to. He then said he would come to find me again in a few days and asked me to wait for him."

Tao Xiangrong recounted in detail every aspect of the Immortal Peach Assembly that day. She described what each of the distinguished figures had done and how she had conversed with them. By the end of the banquet, Tao Xiangrong the favor and attention of over a dozen remarkable individuals. These included young talents, local tycoons, and prominent merchants...

Li Xian couldn't help but think, "Although Xu Central Lang General's position is not low, I'm afraid his chances are slim."

Tao Xiangrong asked, "Young Master Li, have you discovered anyone suspicious?" Li Xian replied, "Just a few words; it's too early to draw any conclusions..."

Tao Xiangrong asked, "Are you confident about this?" Li Xian replied, "I'm not sure. Since we're searching for lost items, I need to know their specific details first. Their shape, function, meaning, origin... I don't know any of these, so I can't investigate."

Tao Xiangrong Li Xian's many deeds, had no other choice but to say, "Very well, if you can help me find my lost items, I will reward you handsomely. I have a Immortal Peach that I can give you to eat. As for my lost items..."

"It's my Longevity Lock."