Courtyard House: Report enemy agents at the start, and you'll take off immediately.

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In the midst of the fierce battle, Zhao De finally found an opportunity and, with a perfect coordinated attack, knocked the nobleman's staff away. The man's face turned ashen, but he mysteriously vanished at the last moment, leaving only a whisper echoing in the air: "We will meet again, Zhao De. Remember, the real test is yet to come."

As the nobleman disappeared, the crystal's light gradually faded, eventually returning to calm. Zhao De and his companions stood there, still catching their breath, but they knew this was only the beginning.

Xiaoyue walked to Zhao De's side and whispered, "No matter what lies ahead, I believe we can overcome it together. Right, Zhao De?"

Zhao De turned around, looking at his companions' resolute faces, a surge of warmth and strength welling up inside him: "That's right, as long as we're together, there's no difficulty we can't overcome. But..." He changed the subject, a hint of uncertainty in his voice, "Who exactly is that nobleman? And what secrets are hidden in his words?"

Just as everyone was discussing this, a series of rapid hoofbeats suddenly came from outside the castle, growing louder as they approached, instantly attracting everyone's attention. A messenger, dressed in tattered clothes but with sharp eyes, leaped off his horse, carrying several wax-sealed letters, and hurried towards Zhao De and his party.

"Looking for Lord Zhao De, urgent news!" The messenger's voice was somewhat hoarse, clearly from a long journey.

Zhao De frowned slightly and stepped forward to take the letter. There was no signature on the envelope, only a few strong characters: "Open and you will know."

His companions anxiously gathered around him, with Xiaoyue gripping Zhao De's hand tightly, offering silent support. Zhao De took a deep breath, tore open the envelope, and a thin sheet of parchment slid out, revealing several lines of densely written text.

Chapter 544 Dongling Town

Chapter 544 Dongling Town

"Brother De, come to Dongling Town immediately, I have important matters to discuss. Remember, travel alone." The handwriting was familiar and strong, the handwriting of Li Feng, a good friend whom he had not seen for many years.

"Dongling Town? Li Feng?" Zhao De murmured, his mind filled with doubt. Why would this friend, with whom he had cultivated and grown up since childhood, issue such an urgent summons at this moment?

"Zhao De, what happened?" Xiaoyue asked with concern.

Zhao De looked up into the distance, his eyes flashing with determination: "It's Li Feng. I have to go to Dongling Town. You all stay here and protect yourselves."

"No, Zhao De, let's go together!" His companions all objected, unwilling to be separated at this time.

“This time, I must go alone. You wait for me here, I will be back as soon as possible,” Zhao De said resolutely, then turned to the messenger, “Take me to get the fastest horse, time is of the essence.”

The messenger nodded and then led Zhao De to the stables. Although the others were unwilling, they understood that Zhao De's decision was irreversible, and could only watch him leave, their hearts filled with unease and worry.

Zhao De rode at breakneck speed, traveling day and night to Dongling Town. Along the way, he encountered many pedestrians, and their conversations inadvertently revealed an unusual atmosphere:

"Have you heard? Something big seems to be happening over in Dongling."

"Yes, it's said that some extraordinary people have gathered here, seemingly searching for some kind of treasure."

"Hmph, baby? I think you've gotten yourself into trouble! There's no such thing as a free lunch in this world."

The comments from passersby not only piqued Zhao De's curiosity but also made him realize the potentially complex situation he might face on this trip.

After several days of rapid travel, Zhao De finally arrived at Dongling Town. As soon as he stepped into the town, he was struck by the bustling scene. The once tranquil town was now teeming with people, travelers, merchants, and even martial artists from all directions, and the streets and alleys were filled with lively discussions.

"Brother, what's going on? Why is the town so lively?" Zhao De asked, stopping a fellow traveler who was hurrying along.

Zhao De stopped and looked around to make sure no one was eavesdropping before whispering, "I heard that some big shot is going to hold a martial arts tournament in town. The winner will receive a lost secret manual, a treasure that can make someone rise to the top in one step!"

Upon hearing this, Zhao De pondered to himself. A secret manual? Could Li Feng's urgent summons be related to this?

Just as Zhao De was pondering, a commotion interrupted his thoughts. Not far away, a group of people were gathered around a notice, discussing it animatedly. He squeezed through the crowd and saw that the notice read: "East Ridge Sword Competition, heroes gather. Make friends through martial arts, and the secret manuals belong to the victor."

A cold smile curled at the corner of Zhao De's lips. He thought to himself, "Such blatant blatantness suggests he has something to scheme for. Li Feng, what kind of vortex have you gotten yourself into?"

At this moment, a burly man stepped out from the crowd and patted Zhao De on the shoulder: "Brother, judging by your skills, are you also interested in that secret manual? How about we team up?"

Zhao De shook his head and replied calmly, "I have my own purpose, but thank you for your kindness."

As he turned to leave, several ragged beggars surrounded him. One of the older beggars whispered, "Young hero, be careful. This town is a mixed bag now, and many people are eyeing that secret manual. Although we are beggars, we have heard quite a few secrets, and perhaps we can be of some help."

Chapter 545 Kidnapping by a Mysterious Man

Chapter 545 Kidnapping by a Mysterious Man

Zhao De's gaze sharpened, and he took out a few copper coins from his pocket and handed them to them: "If you have any news, please come to the inn in the east of town to find me. Remember, safety first."

As night fell, Zhao De tossed and turned in the inn, the words of the passersby and the beggar's warning echoing in his mind. Suddenly, he heard faint footsteps outside the door, followed by a rapid knocking.

"Who?" Zhao De asked warily.

A woman's voice came from outside the door, sounding slightly anxious: "It's me, Xiao Cui. I have something urgent to tell you, it concerns Young Master Li Feng."

Zhao De quickly opened the door, and a woman dressed simply but with an undeniable beauty stood before him. She said urgently, "Young Master Zhao De, I am a maid from the Li Feng family. Young Master Li Feng... he has been kidnapped by a group of mysterious people who are demanding that secret manual in exchange."

Zhao De frowned and said in a deep voice, "Did the kidnappers leave any other clues?"

Xiao Cui took out a slip of paper from her sleeve and handed it to Zhao De. It was hastily written on: "Tomorrow at noon, in the Dead Tree Valley in the northern suburbs."

After carefully putting away the note, Zhao De's eyes hardened: "Xiao Cui, go back first and take care of the others. I have my own plans for tomorrow."

The next morning, on his way to the Dead Tree Valley in the northern suburbs, Zhao De encountered a man who looked like he was in a hurry. The man looked him up and down and suddenly said, "Young hero, this journey may be dangerous. I see that your face is dark, and you will surely suffer a bloody disaster soon."

Zhao De smiled faintly: "Life and death are determined by fate, and wealth and honor are determined by heaven. Thank you for your concern, senior, but there are some things that must be done."

Zhao De sighed and took out a jade pendant that gleamed faintly from his pocket: "This is an amulet to ward off evil. Although it cannot guarantee your complete safety, it can ward off disasters in critical moments. Young hero, take care."

As he accepted the jade pendant, a warm feeling welled up in Zhao De's heart. He quickened his pace, silently saying, "Li Feng, I'm here."

Finally, they arrived at the Valley of the Dead Trees. The valley was empty and desolate, with several men in black standing in the center. Li Feng was bound hand and foot in the middle of them. Zhao De took a deep breath and slowly stepped into the valley.

"Oh, you've come at just the right time. Did you bring the manual?" a leader of men in black asked coldly.

"Secret manual? I've never heard of it." Zhao De feigned ease, but his eyes were as sharp as a hawk's as he scanned his surroundings, searching for any flaws.

"Stop trying to play tricks on us! Without the secret manual, Li Feng will only become a sacrifice," the man in black threatened, the blade in his hand gleaming coldly.

Just as the two sides were locked in a stalemate, the sound of hooves came from outside the valley, mixed with shouts: "Zhao De, hold on, we're coming to help you!"

Zhao De's heart skipped a beat; it was his loyal companions. How had they learned of the news and arrived? All would be revealed in the story to come…

The sound of hooves grew closer, kicking up dust, as several figures rushed into the withered tree valley like a whirlwind. Leading them was a tall, burly man with a full beard and a fierce, unwavering gaze in his eyes. "Zhao De, don't be afraid! Our Dragon Fang Squad isn't to be trifled with!" he shouted, brandishing his broadsword. Two men in black fell to the ground, instantly boosting their morale.

Passersby were astonished by what they saw and stopped in their tracks, whispering among themselves.

"What...what's going on? Where did these people come from?"

Chapter 546 Secret Manual

Chapter 546 Secret Manual

"Have you heard? That Zhao De is the one who's been all over town lately. I never thought I'd have the chance to see him in person today."

"My goodness, these men in black are no ordinary people either. Judging from their equipment, they must be ruthless figures in the martial arts world."

Zhao De felt a surge of warmth in his heart, his gaze meeting the members of the Dragon Fang Squad one by one, his gratitude overflowing. "Everyone, thank you for arriving in time," he said softly, then turned to the leader of the men in black, his voice turning cold, "Now, do you still want to continue this farce?"

The leader of the men in black had a grim expression, his eyes darting around as if searching for a final escape route. Suddenly, he let out a sinister laugh: "Hmph, you think adding a few more people will change anything? Today, I'm taking this secret manual!"

Before the words were finished, a gust of wind came from outside the valley, accompanied by several sharp arrows slicing through the air and landing with perfect accuracy near the feet of the men in black, just inches from their boots. A clear female voice then rang out: "Brother Zhao De, our Wind Hunting Bow Team has come to lend a hand! Anyone who dares to have any more wicked thoughts, the next arrow won't be so ruthless!"

A gasp of astonishment erupted from the passersby:

"My God, that archery skill is simply divine!"

"Look, look! This is no ordinary martial arts dispute, it's a grand martial arts gathering!"

"Zhao De, just who is this guy? How can he mobilize so many experts!"

Caught off guard by the sudden reinforcements, the leader of the men in black broke out in a cold sweat. He knew that if they continued to fight, they would likely gain nothing. "Hmph, consider yourself lucky. We'll see!" With that, the men in black quickly retreated, disappearing into the mist at the valley entrance.

Watching the man in black's retreating figure, Zhao De felt little joy, for Li Feng was still trapped in the center, his face pale and appearing extremely weak. "Li Feng, I'm late." He quickly stepped forward and began to untie him.

Li Feng forced a smile: "Zhao De, I'm already very satisfied to see you and these friends at this crucial moment."

At this moment, a member of the Dragon Fang Squad walked up to Zhao De and asked in a low voice, "Who exactly are those men in black? Why are they targeting you?"

Zhao De's gaze was firm as he slowly said, "This matter has far-reaching implications, involving a long-lost martial arts manual. But right now, the most important thing is not to investigate, but..." He changed the subject, looking into the distance, where something seemed to be calling to him, "to find that manual and uncover the truth hidden behind it."

Among the passersby, a child tugged at his mother's sleeve and asked curiously, "Mommy, will that brother become a great hero?"

The mother smiled gently and stroked her child's head: "As long as you have a sense of justice, everyone has the potential to become a hero. My child, remember this day, you witnessed the birth of a hero."

The story slowly came to a close amidst the murmurs and expectant gazes of the crowd, but Zhao De and his companions' journey had only just begun.

"So, where should we go next to look for that secret manual?" Zhao De turned to his companions and asked.

"No matter where the secret manual is hidden, as long as we fight side by side, there is no difficulty we cannot overcome." Li Feng's voice was weak, but full of strength, and his eyes shone with hope for the future and trust in friendship.

Chapter 547 The Madman

Chapter 547 The Madman

"It is said that the secret manual is related to the ancient and mysterious Cloud Hidden Mountain, which is often shrouded in strange mists, making it difficult for ordinary people to set foot there." Lin Wan gently stroked the old map in her hand, her eyes sparkling with wisdom. "If we can solve the puzzles on the map, perhaps we can find a way to enter Cloud Hidden Mountain."

Zhao De took the map and carefully examined its intricate lines, a surge of inexplicable excitement welling up within him. "Yunyin Mountain... a place forgotten by the world. If the secret manual is truly hidden here, it must be protected by numerous traps. But since we have made our decision, nothing can stop us from moving forward."

The news spread like wildfire, and the story of Zhao De and his group searching for a secret manual caused a sensation throughout the martial arts world. A passerby exclaimed in surprise, "Have you heard? Zhao De and his group are going to Cloud Hidden Mountain to find some lost manual, a legendary and dangerous place!"

Passerby B chimed in, "Yes, even the leader of the martial arts alliance wouldn't dare to set foot in such a place, yet these young people dare to venture in? I really don't know if they're just young and fearless, or if they're just highly skilled and daring."

Inside the town's teahouse, a storyteller, fan in hand, spoke with dramatic intonation: "So, Zhao De and his companions, burdened with the heavy responsibility of uncovering an ancient mystery, embarked on an unknown and perilous journey. Their courage has already stirred up waves in the martial world, sparking much discussion—"

"Could this Zhao De be a madman?" In a corner of the teahouse, a man in a gray robe, Zhao De, muttered to himself, which immediately drew a rebuttal from a young man at the next table: "Don't underestimate him. I've heard that Zhao De once single-handedly rescued villagers who were surrounded by bandits. That's a true heroic deed!"

While everyone was discussing this, Zhao De and his group had quietly arrived at the foot of Cloud Hidden Mountain. Looking up at the mist-shrouded peaks, everyone took a deep breath, preparing to face the challenge that was about to begin.

"Yunyin Mountain, here we come." Zhao De's words were filled with unwavering determination. Li Feng and Lin Wan exchanged a smile, their eyes also burning with fighting spirit.

In the village at the foot of the mountain, the old village chief looked at the group of spirited young people and couldn't help but sigh: "Youth is wonderful, always full of passion and fearless. I hope they can find the secret manual, uncover the truth, and I hope they can return safely."