Chapter 236: Chapter 179: Sparring in Swordsmanship

The Emperor’s lips curved upward, that smile clearly carrying a hint of fear that the world would not be chaotic enough, as he said with great interest, “Monarch of Beichang, what kind of opportunity do you actually seek?”

Chunyu Che’s expression was solemn, and he said loudly, “In our Beichang, if two women fancy the same man at the same time, they determine the winner through a martial arts contest, and only the victor gets the person they desire. The same applies to men.”

These words left everyone deep in thought.

Previously, no one knew Shen Ruoxi possessed martial skills, yet she went to the battlefield alone and achieved great accomplishments, thus everyone came to know that her martial arts were extraordinary.

But as for Princess Chunyu Ya, she was the epitome of delicacy, looking nothing like someone who practiced martial arts.

Upon hearing this, Shen Ruoxi suddenly smiled brightly, her piercing gaze directly at Chunyu Che, as she said, “King of Beichang, it might be better for your country to change this custom!”

Just as Chunyu Che was slightly stunned, Shen Ruoxi’s voice suddenly rose, “Gentlemen, you better keep an eye on your wives and daughters.

This Senior Gu, known in the martial world as Sword Shadow Residual Wind, has martial arts so superior that if he claims to be second, no one would dare claim first.

Among you seated here, surely none are a match for him. Be careful not to let him take your wives and daughters away.”

Everyone was momentarily stunned, and Sword Shadow Residual Wind certainly did not expect the fire to reach him.

He raised his eyes, his face darkened, and said displeased, “Young girl, stop spouting nonsense. I have no hobby of stealing others’ wives and daughters!”

Shen Ruoxi lowered her head with a light laugh, “So the senior also knows it’s wrong to steal others’ wives? Then it’s best to change this outdated practice in your country early, before it becomes a laughingstock.”

Some among the crowd couldn’t help but snicker aloud.

Chunyu Che’s expression grew increasingly unsightly, and Chunyu Ya lightly tugged his sleeve, her eyes full of hesitation as if to say, why not just let it go!

In fact, ever since Chunyu Ya found out that Jun Moling was not the hero who saved her, her feelings began to waver.

Although Jun Moling was extraordinarily handsome, and her brother repeatedly emphasized the various benefits of marrying him, if he wasn’t her heart’s chosen, she didn’t want to force herself.

Chunyu Che coldly glanced at her, and Chunyu Ya’s heart skipped a beat, instantly understanding his intent.

It was all for Beichang; with this thought, a sudden wave of bitterness surged within her heart, but she immediately steeled herself and gently nodded.

Chunyu Che looked at Shen Ruoxi with a half-smile and said, “Princess Consort Zhan, it is all for the marriage alliance and peace between the two countries. Does saying this mean your country does not wish for peace?”

Shen Ruoxi glared furiously, cursing this bastard in her heart.

She originally thought Chunyu Che was a benevolent person, not expecting that upon becoming a king, he would reveal a different face, and pinning such a big hat on her was utterly absurd and laughable.

“So peace between the two countries is based on such personal matters? Can’t get married, and peace gets destroyed; is peace between the two countries so fragile?

Monarch of Beichang, your thinking is so narrow.

Let me be frank, as long as I, Shen Ruoxi, am here, any woman wanting to enter Prince Mansion will have to consider whether the sword in my hand agrees or not.” Shen Ruoxi’s powerful retort was filled with determination and resolution, and she was no longer being polite.

These words made Chunyu Ya gasp, and those women thinking of becoming concubines in the Prince Mansion also felt their hearts beat faster.

Everyone knew her bravery in cutting the enemy camp’s suspension bridge alone, showcasing her extraordinary martial arts prowess.

Moreover, she was the sole descendant left by Loyalty Marquis, and even if she did kill someone, the Emperor might not punish her, let alone since she was Princess Consort Zhan.

Jun Moling stood to the side, lips curving upward, feeling immensely pleased.

His wife was so determined to protect their marriage, he felt nothing but satisfaction and happiness.

At this moment, Sword Shadow Residual Wind, who had been standing with his sword, seemed intrigued by Shen Ruoxi’s words, “Young girl, do you wield a sword?”

Shen Ruoxi held a deep respect for Sword Shadow Residual Wind and quickly nodded in reply, “Ruoxi’s master is the Ghostly Trace Divine Hand, and I have long heard of the senior’s great name.”

Sword Shadow Residual Wind was slightly stunned, “So you are Old Ghost Fu’s disciple. No wonder you are so articulate and responsive. Do you dare to spar with this old man?”

Shen Ruoxi was momentarily stunned; his prestigious status and widespread fame made her wonder why he would request to duel with a junior.

For a moment, she was at a loss and uncertain of his intentions.

Yet, to call someone’s master an “old ghost” in front of their disciple was a bit impolite.

Actually, in the martial world, many called her master the Divine Healer to distinguish from a half-righteous, half-demonic ghost healer.

The Dayi Country’s ministers had long harbored dissatisfaction toward the elder with the treasure sword, and upon seeing him seemingly intend to make things difficult for Shen Ruoxi, they instantly became incensed.

However, before they could speak, Jun Moling let out a cold laugh, “Senior, why not let this junior learn a few moves from you.”

Sword Shadow Residual Wind appeared uninterested in anyone else, not even bothering with a glance, and whispered to Shen Ruoxi, “Young girl, are you scared?”

Shen Ruoxi’s mind raced, and in a moment, she understood.

Someone of his renowned status would not genuinely wish to spar with her, but perhaps wanted to give some pointers or see what level her martial arts had reached.

This was a rare opportunity, and crucial for verifying if he was genuine or not.

Shen Ruoxi’s gaze turned firm, without hesitation, she shook her head, cupped her fists, and said clearly to Sword Shadow Residual Wind, “Then this junior will seek guidance on the senior’s swordsmanship!”

Her figure was sharp, imbued with a fearless heroic spirit that left the audience staring.

The Emperor slightly frowned, and Jun Moling’s expression changed, worry surfacing in his eyes.

Nevertheless, Shen Ruoxi smiled casually to reassure everyone, “Your Majesty, please do not worry. The senior just wishes to spar with this humble self, please grant a treasure sword.”

Her voice was clear and resonant, carrying an undeniable confidence.

The Emperor pondered for a moment and felt that since the duel was already proposed, not accepting would be cowardly.

He nodded, instructing the guard beside him, “Find a treasure sword for Princess Consort Zhan.”

The guard nodded respectfully and immediately presented his own sword.

Shen Ruoxi accepted the sword and thanked him.

After giving instructions, the Emperor turned to sternly warn Sword Shadow Residual Wind, “In the hall, it’s merely a duel. The senior is renowned; your fame goes back a long way, please be careful not to cause any harm.”

Sword Shadow Residual Wind gazed proudly, seemingly dismissive of anyone in the world.

Thinking about the crowd’s concern for Shen Ruoxi’s safety, he coldly responded, “Naturally, I won’t.”

Jun Moling was filled with tension, his hands unconsciously tightening.

Shen Ruoxi gently said to him, “He probably wants to give me some pointers, it’s alright.”

Hearing her reassurance, Jun Moling felt slightly more at ease, yet still remained highly vigilant, secretly resolving that if anything seemed amiss, even at the risk of his life, he would rescue his wife.

Shen Ruoxi took the sword, gracefully twirling it, the blade gleaming coldly.

She again cupped her hand towards Sword Shadow Residual Wind, and said loudly, “Apologies, senior.”

Then, a flash of sword light shot forward like a rainbow piercing the sun, rushing towards Sword Shadow Residual Wind.

Sword Shadow Residual Wind was slightly astonished, perhaps not expecting such high martial arts skills from this seemingly delicate young girl.

His figure subtly flickered, and Shen Ruoxi’s fierce sword strike missed its target.

Shen Ruoxi understood clearly; he was a senior, and an acknowledged top martial artist in the Martial World; his speed was naturally expected.

But she did not become discouraged; her swordsmanship was always the most outstanding among her seniors and juniors.

So, without hesitation, she thrust her treasure sword forward once again.

For a moment, sword light intertwined in the hall. One attacked swiftly, his sword moving like the wind; the other dodged deftly, his figure ghostly.

In the blink of an eye, they had already exchanged more than twenty moves.

Every move from Shen Ruoxi was full of strength and skill, while Sword Shadow Residual Wind’s response was relaxed, yet he showed no contempt for the opponent.

The duel was breathtaking and kept everyone on edge.

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep