Zhang Xiaohua touched his nose and smiled. "Hui Chun Valley's martial contest for marriage doesn't require advance registration or an entry fee?"
He seemed to have thought of Yuan Guoliang and Zhou Tai.
Valley Master Nie smiled. "Naturally, none of that is necessary. But if they come bearing gifts, we can only accept them with due courtesy. Otherwise, wouldn't we appear guilty?"
Zhang Xiaohua nodded, feeling as though he had found a kindred spirit.
Nie Qianyu hurriedly said from behind them, "Father, it's getting late."
Valley Master Nie said apologetically, "Young Hero Ren, look, if we arrive late, it wouldn't be impossible to pull some strings and squeeze you in. But if we later throw you out and call off the engagement at the gate, wouldn't that look rather awkward? We are both clever men; what we do must fit together seamlessly, without a single drop leaking through. How about we use our lightness skills and head over now?"
Zhang Xiaohua cupped his hands. "Valley Master Nie is indeed meticulous. That was precisely my intention. Please."
"Good. This old man will lead the way. Young Hero Ren, please."
With that, Valley Master Nie did not stand on ceremony. He tapped the ground with his foot, his figure drifting toward the door. Then, with a sweep of both arms, he shot straight toward the manor gates like a white crane.
Zhang Xiaohua was in no hurry. He picked up the long sword from the ground, and without any visible preparation, his figure was already at the doorway. Then, as though his feet never touched the ground, he followed after him.
Behind them, Nie Qianyu quickly called out, "Xiao Juzi, prepare the horses! Let's hurry over and take a look."
As Valley Master Nie employed his lightness skill toward the main gate,