A Challenge Once More

The pavilion held no furnishings at all, only empty space. At the very top sat a woman cross-legged, her face veiled and her hair slightly graying.

Zhang Ping'er led Zhang Xiaohua carefully inside. Stopping some distance from the woman, she saluted. "Greetings, Master."

Naturally, Zhang Xiaohua was equally respectful. He clasped his hands and saluted. "Greetings, Vice Hall Master!"

The woman waved a hand, her expression still mild and amiable. "There are no usual tables and chairs here. Sit as you please; there is no need for ceremony."

Though she said there was no need for ceremony, how could Zhang Xiaohua truly be informal? He voiced his thanks and respectfully sat cross-legged nearby. Fortunately, he usually cultivated in meditation, so he was thoroughly familiar with the posture. Seeing how deftly Zhang Xiaohua settled down, the woman seemed somewhat surprised and could not help asking, "Ren Xiaoyao, what... what internal art do you practice?"

Zhang Xiaohua answered without hesitation. "Reporting to the Vice Hall Master, I practice Mighty Ox Strength!"

"Mighty Ox Strength?" The woman was plainly taken aback. Muttering to herself, she said, "It does not seem to be any renowned martial art in the martial world."

"Hehe." Zhang Xiaohua smiled. "Exactly. This one's aptitude is lacking, so I can only choose something exceedingly simple to cultivate. Even in the martial world, Mighty Ox Strength is an extremely basic art. It is perfectly normal that the Vice Hall Master has not heard of it."

"Is that so?" The woman remained suspicious. "You are quite young, and Mighty Ox Strength is an exceedingly simple art, yet... how is your martial skill so exceptional? Even Ping'er is no match for you?"

Zhang Xiaohua smiled. "Senior Sister Zhang praises me too highly. I have never exchanged blows with Senior Sister Zhang. I merely