Volume 11.5 Chapter 18
Allow me to share some rudimentary knowledge for success in the pugilistic world. Ming Feizhen carried Hua Qing and Su Li out of Zhuo Estate using his qinggong, then gave them some different clothing before making a beeline for Yichangs eastern pier, a place that was practically deserted at night. When youre active at night, dress like a thief. First, its good for stealth purposes and freedom of movement. Second, if you do run into thieves, even if you cant work with them, at least you wont have to fight each other.
I mean, I understand the logic, but why do we have to hide beside the toilet?! complained Hua Qing.
Given the men working at the wharf couldnt stand their own smell, it was amazing for the trio to not pass out standing by the loo.
See what I mean by youre inexperienced? Theres no place to hide here. Wed be immediately noticed if there are sentries here. The loo is the only place they avoid; even if they do have to be anywhere within its proximity, theyll try to leave as soon as possible. This place isnt bad at all. This smell can even help you practice holding your breath, thereby improving your internal strength. Its two birds with one stone, Ming Feizhen replied.
Im about to pass out! Also, why are we the only ones who have to wear these black clothes, this annoying black head cloth and tape our noses with a strip of cloth in this stupid bow knot?!
If I wore the same clothes, too, would you be able to find me given my speed? I have to stand out. What are you even cranky about? I dont know many people whod look good in that getup.
Well, thats because Im hands-, dont use insinuation to insult people. I may be used to this sort of stuff, but what about Miss Su?
So, what youre saying is, she should perform a stealth mission in the dark dressed in her flashy, colourful clothing? Sounds genius.
Its fine, its fine. Su Li enthusiastically checked out her tapered clothing that accentuated her lines. There are only girls in my family. I only have a younger sis-, brother whos turning one this year. Its nice to break out of the usual mould and try something risky that girls usually wouldnt try.
Why did you stop at sister?
Su Li gloomily gazed into the distance. Its not worth telling you.
The two guys decided it was better not to pry.
How do we know where they are? questioned Ming Feizhen.
Ming Feizhen flashed a corner of his white pearls. Well have to call upon the wisdom of the men of old.
Old wisdom? Which one?
Before Ming Feizhen present a black pill, he slapped Hua Qing over the head. My scummy shifu concocted this.
Su Li: What is it? Something to consume?
Good question. Hua Whats-your-face, open your mouth.
Ming Feizhen shoved the pill into Hua Qings mouth, then calmly stated, It can be lethally toxic. Its not edible.
Hua Qing forced himself to hurl forthwith.
If employed as poison, its a lethal weapon. It has another use, though. Ming Feizhen rubbed another identical pill between his fingers, then patted Su Li on the back. When crushed, it emits a faint scent. You can apply to someones body using a special method, and the smell will last for three days. Your internal energy potency isnt enough to miss it, but
Hua Qing felt a surge of heat within him, followed by drastically heightened hearing, smell, touch and sight, empowering him to discern the details of the surroundings in the darkness. He had no time to indulge for the scent Ming Feizhen mentioned quickly pervaded his nose. Inhalation revealed to him three different smells, one coming from Su Li, another from a fragrance she applied and the last of which was the putrid smell on the other side of the wall
As soon as Ming Feizhen pulled his hand away from Hua Qings back, his senses reverted to their usual state.
So this is what the world is like to true adepts. Brother Feizhen, do I have any hope of reaching that realm?
Who knows? Everyone is different. Maybe. Maybe not.
Hua Qing sighed. I would die a happy man if I could reach it.
I pulled a little stunt when I fought the scholar earlier today, Ming Feizhen informed.
I get it now. Su Li said, You put the scent on him so that you can trace him.
Correct. Ming Feizhen picked up a wooden stick that emitted a stench capable of making Su Li and Hua Qing pull their heads away. He dipped it in some sort of water smf then drew on the ground as he pointed out, This is the inn. This is Zhuo Estate. The smell went along this route.
Su Li spent a moment analysing the diagram with fascination, then asked, So, not only did they flee the scene but also made so many pit stops. They must be trying to conceal their true destination and whereabouts, right?
A situation like this requires a thorough analysis; you cant draw conclusions so thoughtlessly. For instance, just as h-
Dont point that thing at me! griped Hua Qing.
So petty.
Hua Qing took several steps away. Cant you just give us the conclusion?! Where are they, exactly?!