The day was sunny, with not a cloud to be seen in the azure sky. Chenxiang had gotten up early, packed his travel bag, and took one last look at his family ho.
It was not a large house, yet it had sheltered him and his father from the elents for many years. It was filled with the mories of his childhood and joy. Now, as the ti to part had arrived, his heart ached with reluctance.
However, the vision of his mother reappeared in his mind, and with a steely resolve, Chenxiang walked out the door decisively. Liu Yanchang secretly watched his son's retreating figure with tears streaming down his face, knowing that the fledgling was about to soar into the Nine Heavens; he could only watch, not hinder.
As Chenxiang stepped out of the house, he was unexpectedly greeted by a gathering of villagers who had co to see him off. Many cheered loudly, encouraging him, as they proclaid that their village was about to produce an immortal.
Tears welled in the corners of Chenxiang's eyes. He respectfully thanked the villagers for their care and apologized for his childhood mischief and the trouble he'd caused, grateful that they bore no grudges.
Surrounded by the villagers' farewells, Chenxiang set off on his journey to seek the Way and the immortals, with the unknown looming ahead of him.
What Chenxiang didn't know was that his departure had touched many hearts. Not long after he left the village, Yang Jian and the Third Holy Mother on Mountain Hua had already received the news.
A rare smile appeared on Yang Jian's stern face, seemingly content with Chenxiang's decision, while the Third Holy Mother was full of worry. She didn't know if her child could survive well in this cruel world or if he would beco disheartened by its darkness and ruthlessness, lanting that the ideal vision of a youth who departs and returns as a young man was often nothing more than a beautiful wish.
High above in the Nine Heavens, within the Lingxiao Hall, the Jade Emperor nodded in satisfaction. He had given the opportunity; it was up to Chenxiang to seize it.
After all, for the All Saints, who began the ga was not important; as long as soone started, that was enough. But for them, the one who started would enjoy imnse benefits.
Naturally, Chenxiang was unaware of how much his departure had drawn attention. At that mont, he was like a child, curiously taking in his surroundings. Everything in the city seed novel to him, having spent his entire life in the village, his days filled with frolic in the fields. He had never been to such a bustling place before. Scenes previously only depicted in books were now unfolding before his eyes, giving him a surreal sensation.
A young boy andered through the crowd, looking around with interest, his clear eyes full of wonder. His behavior quickly caught the attention of a few idlers.
A man with a scarred face nudged his companion, gesturing him to check out Chenxiang. The other man turned to look in Chenxiang's direction, his eyes suddenly shining brightly.
"Keep a close eye on him, he might be a pri catch!" the man said, his face alight with excitent.
Scarface smiled and nodded, subtly following behind Chenxiang, who was completely unaware of the looming danger.
This group were notorious ruffians in the city, always up to no good, experts at deceit and trickery, and they even connived with human traffickers in secret, targeting holess or orphaned children specifically. They had avoided trouble due to their cautious ways and never getting involved directly.
Now, their attention had settled on Chenxiang, who had just entered the city. Plainly new to the world, he looked like easy prey. Nevertheless, to be safe, the man decided to make inquiries to see if the boy was related to any notable families in the city.
Scarface followed Chen Xiang around and found that this kid had nearly traversed the entire city. He prided himself on his basic martial arts skills and considerable vigor, but even after a day of tailing, he suffered from an aching back and sore legs. anwhile, the boy seed unbothered, as lively and energetic as ever.
As he gritted his teeth with frustration, the man sent to gather information had returned, grinning broadly as he said, "I've found out everything. This kid is an outsider, just passing through, with no relatives here. This is our chance to strike it rich."
Due to genetic reasons, Chen Xiang naturally had an exceedingly attractive appearance. Furthermore, his frequent reading endowed him with an aura of erudition without appearing pedantic. In the distorted eyes of those perverse individuals with a penchant for ephebic beauty, he was considered a rare beauty, much to the liking of so wealthy people.
"Boss, there's sothing off about this kid," Scarface considered for a mont but ultimately decided to share his observation.
"What's there to fear? No matter how skilled he might be at his young age, he could at best be a bit more vigorous than the average person. So patrons favor precisely that type," the man said with a sleazy smile, whispering confidently.
"I've already notified Poison Snake. We'll make our move at nightfall."
Scarface glanced at Chen Xiang, feeling this wasn't as secure a plan as they'd hoped. Noticing his worried expression, the man added, "Don't worry too much. We'll do as we always do, hide at a distance and not get involved. Even if this kid is unusual, it's not like he could suspect us."
Night descended, and a silver moon rose. Chen Xiang looked at the silver taels in his hand, feeling that staying at an inn didn't seem cost-effective. Only after stepping out did he realize how difficult it was to get by in this world without money, and that every tael saved mattered.
Therefore, he decided to make the earth his bed and the sky his blanket, spend the night outdoors. This choice brought a smile to the face of the man lurking in the shadows—it was like being handed at on a platter. He had been contemplating how to lure the boy out, yet the lad had ventured into the wilderness of his own accord.
After sending a ssage to Poison Snake, the man and Scarface hid in a dark corner, silently waiting to see how events would unfold.
Soon, a tall, gaunt man with a pale face and a group of fearso-looking henchn arrived at Chen Xiang's resting spot. These were the city's infamous Poison Snake and his underlings, notorious for their misdeeds within a hundred miles and responsible for ruining many innocent lives.
Upon seeing Chen Xiang's face, Poison Snake couldn't help but revel in delight, murmuring, "Indeed, a fine piece. This ti, I'll strike it big."
The way he eyed Chen Xiang like a piece of rchandise made the boy feel uncomfortable. Frowning, Chen Xiang asked, "Who are you, and why are you looking at like this?"
With a sly chuckle, Poison Snake replied, "Little guy, how about big brother finds you a place where you'll never worry about food again?"
"Thanks, but no thanks," Chen Xiang curtly refused.
Upon hearing Chen Xiang's resolute rejection, Poison Snake's expression shifted slightly as he said, "That's not very cooperative. If you don't comply, you might suffer a bit. It would be a pity if your pretty face got scratched," he said, finishing his sentence with a licentious lick of his lips and a lecherous gaze.
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