Langya Mountain.
Late at night, beneath a bright moon and scattered stars, birds chirped as Jia Huan arrived at Silver Moon Manor with Twin Whips and Scholar.
The manor occupied sprawling grounds. Withered vines and old trees flanked the entrance, and a small bridge spanned flowing water, lending the place an elegant charm.
"Please." The steward gestured for them to enter.
Jia Huan followed him into the manor.
A father and daughter stood in the classically furnished main hall.
The middle-aged man wore white robes and carried himself with scholarly dignity. His half-gray hair was immaculately combed. He was the manor's master, Duanmu Yuan.
Jia Huan entered and cupped his fists.
"Master Duanmu, forgive me for calling unannounced in the middle of the night."
Duanmu Yuan smiled, his voice gentle.
"An honored guest has come to my door, and I failed to welcome you from afar."
Then he made an introduction.
"Ping’er, this is the renowned Little Butcher, Lord Jia, a Hundred-Household Commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard."
"My daughter lacks talent. She cannot even make the top hundred."
Duanmu Yuan looked relaxed and perfectly composed. Having never committed any evil, why should he fear a visit from the Embroidered Uniform Guard?
"I have long admired your reputation." Jia Huan nodded.
The delicate, stunningly beautiful young woman kept studying him with curious eyes.
"Ping’er, Lord Jia would need only his physical strength to defeat you."
Duanmu Yuan sensed the young man's powerful, fierce vitality. His physique was truly astonishing. Even thirty-ninth place on the Dragon-Tiger Ranking was probably too low!
"All right, you may withdraw."
"Yes." The young woman curtsied and took her leave.
Duanmu Yuan brewed a cup of tea and quietly waited for Jia Huan to speak.
Jia Huan dispensed with pleasantries and went straight to the point.