Hu Xiaotian knew his actions that day were bound to anger the Beggar Gang. He had never been afraid of trouble, and this time the Beggar Gang had provoked him first. Not only had they tried to frame him, but judging by Tong Tiejin's words, they seemed to have Xu Lingkong under their control as well.
Although Xie Tianqiong had learned some martial arts from Tong Tiejin, he was not a member of the Beggar Gang. Once Hu Xiaotian had clarified the situation, he released Xie Tianqiong's acupoints and let him leave.
Xie Tianqiong was a man who respected his teacher and valued loyalty. Even though Tong Tiejin had tried to harm him, he still pleaded with Hu Xiaotian to spare Tong Tiejin's life.
In fact, Hu Xiaotian had never intended to kill Tong Tiejin. For now, this lead was still useful to him; following Tong Tiejin's movements might help him find his maternal grandfather. However, Hu Xiaotian also understood that the Fragrant Kingdom currently housed the Beggar Gang's Headquarters Altar, and their influence here could not be underestimated. Although Tong Tiejin had tried to frame him first, Hu Xiaotian had cut off both his ears and severed the tendons in his hands and feet. This man was no ordinary member of the Beggar Gang. Reducing one of the Six Great Elders of Transmission to such a miserable state was tantamount to openly declaring a feud with the gang.
Fragrant City had begun to settle down over the past two days. Hu Xiaotian had intended to wait peacefully until the Ninth Day of the Ninth Month, keeping a low profile and quietly watching events unfold. He had never expected the Beggar Gang to jump out and provoke him now. He was certain that shortly after Tong Tiejin returned, the gang