Please be my partner.

Chapter 640 Dongyue Lake, Yuehu Tower

On the return carriage, Xiao Ya huddled cautiously in a corner, looking extremely uneasy. Cai Die'er sat beside her, gently comforting her.

In the end, Mellen brought the little girl out. Faced with the woman's unreasonable demands, Mellen did not get angry. Instead, he threw out another gold ingot, indicating that this was his disciple's food expenses over the years.

During this process, the old man did not say much except for getting up to see him off.

Under Cai Die'er's comforting words, Xiao Ya's excitement, confusion, and fear of the future gradually faded. She looked at Mei Lun, her nominal master, with some trepidation, unsure of what she would face next.

"What's your name?" Mellen asked gently.

Xiao Ya immediately replied nervously, "I...I'm called Xiao Ya!"

Realizing what she had just said, Xiaoya blushed and said, "My name is Jiang Ling, and my nickname is... Xiaoya."

Mellen nodded slightly and said, "Little Ling'er, your foundation is weak. After you come back with me, you will need to take care of your body before you can start practicing martial arts."

Jiangling nodded repeatedly like a chick pecking at rice: "It's all up to Master."

Emerald Stone City, Mei Mansion.

"The first step in martial arts training is to cultivate one's body. Without a healthy body, one cannot even get started, let alone become stronger through martial arts practice. This is what is meant by the saying 'the poor study literature, the rich study martial arts'..."

In the courtyard, Mellen was instilling basic martial arts knowledge into Cai Die'er and Jiang Ling. At this moment, each of them had some food in front of them, mainly meat, with fruits and vegetables. It was not only delicious and visually appealing, but also nutritionally balanced.

The cost of this meal alone was more than one or two taels of gold.

Cai Die'er was alright. She was pampered in the Wind Chime Pavilion, and after she showed her talent as a courtesan, her treatment in all aspects improved significantly.

Jiang Ling stared blankly. Although she was the village chief's daughter, in the prevailing view of the times, daughters were destined to marry out and were considered a financial burden. On weekdays, she not only had to clean the house but also help her sister-in-law take care of two children. The amount of work she did was no less than that of an adult.

Of course, this is not actually exploitation. My sister-in-law actually has much more work to do on weekdays. It's just the current situation.

Having grown up in poverty, Jiang Ling had never seen such delicacies before. Even the bowls, plates, and chopsticks used to serve the food seemed exquisite to her. At this moment, her body was tense, and she dared not even touch the food, let alone eat it.

Mellen stopped speaking, looked calmly at Jiang Ling, and said, "Little Ling'er, as my disciple, you must get used to these things as soon as possible. How come the Jiang Ling who was unwilling to be ordinary and wanted to break free from constraints disappeared after leaving that small mountain village?"

Cai Die'er also said, "Little Ling'er, Master's status is extraordinary. As Master's disciple, you should show the proper demeanor. From now on, when you're not practicing martial arts, you should stay by my side. There's still a lot you need to learn."

After listening to Melon and Cai Die'er's words, Jiang Ling forced herself to overcome her nervousness and anxiety. Thinking about the changes that had taken place in such a short time, she picked up her chopsticks and began to eat the food in front of her.

As soon as the food entered his mouth, Jiang Ling's eyes lit up, and he ate much faster.

Cai Die watched with a smile, not saying anything to stop her, but in her heart, she added a few more subjects to Jiang Ling's list of subjects to study.

Mellen continued his explanation, his words imbued with a spiritual influence, so even though Jiang Ling was working hard to eat, this information could be imprinted in her mind word for word.

At the same time, Mellen also used the Wudang Art of the Mind to subtly help Cai Die'er and Jiang Ling to regulate their bodies.

After the two finished their meal, Mellen began to teach them stance training and methods.

The two are progressing at different paces. Although Cai Die'er has not systematically learned martial arts, she did some sporadic training when she was young in order to practice dancing, so she has some foundation. Jiang Ling, on the other hand, is still malnourished and needs to recuperate for a while.

Three days passed in a flash. After these few days of treatment, Jiang Ling's body visibly became plumper, her previous sallow complexion disappeared, and her dry, yellow hair became black and smooth.

In particular, the broadening of her horizons and Cai Die'er's etiquette instruction have caused a slight change in Jiang Ling's mindset. She is no longer as cautious as before and has become more lively and cheerful.

That day, Wind Chime Pavilion brought over the intelligence information that Mellen needed. However, it wasn't the Grand Steward who came, but one of his stewards. For the next period of time, this steward would stay by Mellen's side and help him deliver the latest intelligence.

After all, the Martial Saint's travel information is still quite secretive to ordinary people. Even the Wind Chime Pavilion had to expend considerable effort to find them and locate them at any time.

Given Mellen's current fame, if he were to publicly challenge him, no one would pay any attention. So the simplest approach would be to go directly to him, preferably in public, and just go for it without hesitation.

Of course, doing this will offend people regardless of winning or losing, but that's how the world works. If you want to gain fame in a short time, you have to bear the corresponding price. What you gain and what you give are always proportional.

Some might say they've won at life with ease, but that's only because someone else has paid the price for them.

After reading through the documents in his hand, Mellen stopped at one of them and said, "Cave Moon Lake?"

Shi Xiaoxia had already memorized those details. Upon hearing Mei Lun's words, she immediately replied, "The snow silver fish of Dongyue Lake are famous throughout the world. Young Master Murong Zhi has three great pleasures in life: delicious food, fine wine, and beautiful women. He goes to Dongyue Lake every year at this time, and this year is no exception."

"According to the information we received from Fengling Pavilion, Young Master Fengyue has already set off and, based on the current itinerary, will arrive at Dongyue Lake in five days."

"At Dongyue Lake, local powerful figures have already set up a banquet to invite the young master of romance to a gathering."

Mellen nodded slightly, quite satisfied with the Wind Chime Pavilion's intelligence system. In addition to the itinerary information, the data also included an introduction to Young Master Fengyue, including his background, his teachers, and his past achievements.

Mellen looked at Shi Xiaoxia, the manager of the Wind Chime Pavilion. She was a beautiful woman in her thirties who looked quite capable. Unfortunately, a huge scar on her face ruined her beauty. Although she had concealed her aura, Mellen could naturally tell that she had considerable martial arts skills.

"Then let's start with this playboy," Mellen said casually.

The group set off for Dongyue Lake.

Normally, the fastest way from Emerald City to Cave Moon Lake is by land. By water, the journey is not only longer, but also much slower in areas with calm waters.

However, five days was enough time to travel by water, and the waterway was peaceful, without the bumps of the land route, so they ultimately chose to travel by water.

Traveling along the river, the scenery along the way is quite picturesque, truly embodying the sentiment of "the monkeys' cries on both banks could not be stopped, yet the light boat had already passed ten thousand mountains."

With the help of Fengling Pavilion, Mellen didn't need to worry about anything else and could focus on teaching Cai Die'er and Jiang Ling.

These days, Mellen has begun to teach the two women specific martial arts training methods. Of course, he is not teaching the Wudang School martial arts, but the Shenlong School.

Although according to the Supreme Elder, the current world is not the past of the initial world, Mellen still wanted to try and see if any strange changes would occur if he passed on the Divine Dragon Stream in this era.

And even if it doesn't happen, it doesn't matter; consider it as laying the foundation for the Shenlong School to flourish.

Five days passed in the blink of an eye, and by the time the large ship carrying Melen and his party arrived at Dongyue Lake, it was already evening of the fifth day.

Beside Dongyue Lake stands Yuehu Tower, now brightly lit, attracting a constant stream of dignitaries, nobles, and wandering knights, all eager to catch a glimpse of the charming young master.

At this time, Yuehu Tower had been booked by wealthy guests, and it was not easy to get in. However, Fengling Pavilion had its own connections. After Shi Xiaoxia showed them an invitation, they were respectfully allowed to enter.

Although Jiang Ling has broadened her horizons a bit in the past few days, she still can't help but look around when she sees such a magnificent scene. However, even if some martial arts experts notice her gaze, they probably won't care.

Ascending to the top floor of Moon Lake Tower, the place was already quite lively. The main table in the center was full of people. Sitting in the main seat was a young man in his early twenties. He was fair-skinned, beardless, and quite handsome. He was accompanied by a beautiful woman on each side, looking very carefree.

This young man was none other than the romantic playboy Murong Zhi. Although he looked young, he was actually over forty. However, with the abundant energy and spirit of a martial saint, he could maintain a prime of life for most of his life without deliberate control.

Mellen didn't start fighting right away. After all, he was also curious about the world-famous Snow Silver Fish. Since he was already here, wouldn't it be a waste not to try it?

As night deepened and the moon rose high in the sky, an old man at the main table stood up and said, "Gentlemen, this snow silver fish is cold in nature and is only at its most delicious at midnight. Now that the time has come, please enjoy this delicacy. I believe you will not be disappointed!"

Murong Zhi laughed heartily, "Absolutely! The taste of this snow silver fish is unforgettable, which is why I come here every year at this time!"

The old man flattered Murong Zhi, saying, "Your presence has brought great honor to Yuehu Tower."

For a time, both host and guests enjoyed themselves immensely, creating a harmonious and joyful atmosphere.

Soon, plates were brought to the table, one for each person.

The plate was opened, and inside was a simple item: a rectangular block of ice with a whole silver fish on it. The silver fish was almost transparent and did not look like a fish, but rather like a piece of jade art.

There was also a bowl of clear soup next to it. The soup was extremely clear and transparent, and it had no smell at all.

Mellen first picked up the silverfish and put it in his mouth to savor it.

The snow silver fish melts in your mouth; even the bones are like cartilage, dissolving naturally after a little chewing, with a fresh and pleasant aroma.

Then I took another sip of the fish soup, and an even greater burst of deliciousness was unleashed, filling my entire taste buds.

After Mellen finished eating the fish and soup, he couldn't help but exclaim, "The snow silver fish truly lives up to its name."

The others, snapping out of their reverie at the delicious food, also began to express their admiration.

Mellen looked at Murong Zhi, and waited until he finished eating the snow silver fish before standing up and saying, "Today's meal was quite good. Now that you're full, we can get down to business."

While others were still wondering about the meaning of Mellen's words, Mellen had already released his aura, his spirit and energy rising layer by layer, gradually distorting the surrounding environment.

Someone exclaimed in surprise, "This is... a Martial Saint?!"

Murong Zhi frowned and asked, "My friend, with such delicious food before us today, I don't want to spoil the mood. If you wish to have a contest, perhaps we should postpone it to another day..."

Before Murong Zhi could finish speaking, Melun had already launched a palm strike. This strike seemed light and airy, without even a gust of wind, but Murong Zhi's expression changed slightly, and he extended his folding fan and pointed forward.

"Buzz!~"

The dull thud spread out, making everyone present feel a chill in their hearts.

With a smile, Melon said, "Meilon of the Wudang Sect has come to seek the advice of Young Master Fengyue! If you don't want to destroy this Moon Lake Pavilion, let's go to Dongyue Lake for a while."

After saying that, Mellen transformed into a series of afterimages and pounced on Murong Zhi.

Murong Zhi's face darkened, and he moved so fast that he became a blur.

The two of them, still entangled, rushed out of Yuehu Tower.

Only then did the others present realize what was happening; some were incredibly excited, while others looked worried…

"Could this be... a battle of martial saints?!"

"The Wudang Sect? The Wudang Sect of Qingzhou Prefecture? Wasn't it said that the Wudang Sect only had one Martial Saint? Is this the Supreme Elder?!"

"Of course not. I once had the honor of meeting the Supreme Elder of the Wudang Sect. He was an extraordinary old man. The one in front of me is not the leader of the Wudang Sect either."

"Hmm? I seem to have received news recently that the Wudang Sect has gained a third-generation disciple, who is said to be a descendant of the sect's founder. Could this be him?"

"..."

While the crowd at Moon Lake Tower was discussing the matter, the battle between Melon and Murong Zhi intensified. Both were newly promoted Martial Saints, and their mental power could slightly influence reality. With this alone, they could easily perform actions that seemed unbelievable to ordinary martial artists.

For example, one can leap into the air and remain suspended in mid-air for an extended period; or one can briefly affect the density of water to leave no trace on the surface...

In addition, their movements were so swift that they appeared to ordinary people as two ghostly figures. Moreover, the battle was not only physical but also mental, and the resulting mental influence was enough to cause the people present to see a series of illusions.

For a time, the battle between the two resembled a war between gods and demons in a novel.

Suddenly, everyone's vision blurred, and they saw Murong Zhi soaring into the sky, his figure growing larger and larger. With a wave of his sleeves, he seemed to cover the sky and the sun, enveloping Mellen.

At the same time, a loud howl rang out, seemingly carrying the aura of ancient savagery, as a sharp claw pierced the sky and tore the white robe's sleeves to shreds.

By the time everyone came to their senses, Mellen and Murong Zhi had stopped fighting and were each standing on the top of a painted boat, gazing at each other from afar.

However, Mellen remained calm and composed, with a smile on his lips.

As for Murong Zhi, the sleeve of his white robe was already torn at one corner.

"You're too kind!"

Chapter 641 The Battle of the Snow Mountain and the Journey to the Capital

In the northern frontier, atop the snow-capped mountains.

The two shadowy figures are locked in a fierce struggle, and the turmoil they are causing has triggered a small-scale blizzard. Moreover, this natural disaster is gradually expanding and has the potential to have a more severe impact.

Around the snow-capped mountain, hundreds of martial arts experts watched the battle with burning eyes; they were all people who had followed the newly promoted Martial Saint of the Wudang Sect all the way here.

Since Mellen's powerful victory over the charming Murong Zhi at Dongyue Lake, he has embarked on a series of challenges...

Jinshan Temple, Little Buddha Without Seal and Buddha Without Flower.

Tianfeng Inn, managed by the top-notch manager Yang Keyun.

Hanyue Palace, where the fairy who hides the moon, Nangong Jingrong.

Panshe Mountain, home to Li Er, the second-ranked of the Thirteen Bandit Kings, the One-Eyed.

……

For nearly three months, Mellen has been challenging opponents one after another, including many senior masters who have achieved the Martial Saint title for more than ten years. With the help of the Wind Chime Pavilion, Mellen's reputation has soared in a short period of time, and he is showing signs of becoming a leading figure of the new generation.

A few days ago, Mellen made a high-profile announcement that he would go to the snowy mountains of northern China to challenge the holy son of the Tianshan Sect... Hao Lianyun.

The Tianshan Sect is one of the most powerful sects of the time, a sacred place of faith for the northern grassland tribes, with its influence spanning the two kingdoms of Dayu and Xuerong. The current Tianshaman is recognized as one of the three greatest masters in the world, standing at the pinnacle of martial sainthood.

Hao Lianyun is known as the Holy Son of the Tianshan Sect, so he must have some skills. He is only around thirty years old, but he has been immersed in the Martial Saint stage for several years. He has not only mastered the artistic conception related to ice and snow, but has also completed the inner realm and begun to explore the outer realm.

Despite all the hype surrounding him, Mellen is still a notch below Hao Lianyun in terms of ability.

However, when Mellen arrived with overwhelming momentum, Hao Lianyun had no choice but to fight back; this is the power of public opinion.

At the summit of the snow-capped mountain, the natural world was already bitterly cold, and Hao Lianyun's inner power could freeze even the soul. With the icy intent unfolding, this environment was extremely advantageous to him.

This can be considered one of the advantages of the challenger.

On the other hand, not only was the inner realm not yet complete, but the Wudang realm, under the same conditions, was far inferior to those powerful combat-related realms in terms of combat assistance. It was only through Mellen's own martial arts skills that he managed to close the gap between the two.

It is worth mentioning that while the Wudang Sect in the Upper Realm has many methods of cultivating artistic conception, the truly core and important disciples usually only have the Wudang artistic conception as their choice.

After all, while various offensive and defensive techniques can provide a considerable boost in the first step of martial arts, their usefulness diminishes significantly in the second and third steps.

Legend has it that powerful beings and those on the other side of the river possess supernatural abilities that arise spontaneously, easily wielding the power to destroy the heavens and the earth and reshaping the universe. The mere addition of artistic conception is truly dispensable.

On the contrary, the Wudang realm can still play a stable role even when it reaches the legendary other shore stage.

For the Wudang Sect of the Upper Realm, it is meaningless to cultivate more Martial Saints. Even if they can sweep through the first step of martial arts, so what?