The dawn light appeared faintly, with the first ray of light resembling a fine golden veil, gently spilling over this land of Jianghu conflicts. In the mountains and forests, the morning mist floated slowly like a thin silk, circling the branches of the trees, as if it were an illusion in a dream. The cheerful chirping of birds rose and fell, the crisp songs awakening the slumbering earth, injecting new vitality and energy into this Jianghu that had endured much hardship.

Shi Feiyang sheathed his saber and stood quietly with his hands behind his back, his tall figure appearing especially grand in the morning light. His facial features were distinct, the firm lines faintly visible in the twilight, his sword-like eyebrows slanting sharply into his temples, adding to his gaze a touch of sharpness and determination. His deep eyes were like cold stars shimmering in the night sky, exuding an air of unyielding authority from the darkness.

His jet-black long hair was casually tied at the back of his head, with a few strands fluttering gently in the breeze, accentuating his unrestrained and carefree nature. Shi Feiyang's every slight movement exuded an inherent charisma, a charisma not born of arrogance and domination, but from inner confidence and steadfastness.

In Shi Feiyang's heart, Liu Tingting was like the pure and flawless Sunflower Saintess, her arrival, like the dawn illuminating this bloodstained and scheming Jianghu, bringing light and hope.

And Gong Simeng, the woman who abandoned all glory and status to join him without hesitation, her loyalty and sacrifice flowed like a warm current through Shi Feiyang's heart, deeply moving him.

Faced with the people of Divine Water Palace, Shi Feiyang's voice was deep and powerful, ringing like a great bell, echoing in this tranquil forest: "Good! Moreover, I will donate three hundred thousand taels of silver and Three Hundred Thousand Stones of grain to the Divine Water Palace, hoping that the Divine Water Palace will keep its promise and withdraw from Jianghu conflicts. This is not only material support for Divine Water Palace but also a solemn promise for peace in Jianghu. If ever faced with any difficulties, whether natural disasters or manmade calamities, the Divine Water Palace may seek my help at any time, and I will spare no effort."

His words carried no hesitation, each word falling like a stone, as if inscribed with power on this Jianghu land, demonstrating his decisiveness and resolution.

"What? What on earth is going on?" Liu Tingting, Heertu, Gong Ci'en, and others exclaimed in astonishment, all wide-eyed and dumbfounded, their faces marked with confusion and incomprehension. Shi Feiyang smiled, a smile containing a glimmer of confidence and composure, slowly explaining: "Didn't many of you come tonight? Go claim the silver and grain below the mountain!"

As soon as he finished speaking, Shi Feiyang waved his large hand, pointed towards Xiao Lingling, and continued: "Find Sister Xiao to collect the money and supplies. I am a bit weary and need to rest." This simple gesture and words revealed an aura of commanding presence, allowing no resistance.

Shi Feiyang knew well that true victory was not merely conquering with force, but also winning hearts through enlightenment and respect.

His generous act undoubtedly established a good image in Jianghu, winning him more support and trust. This battle attracted many sect leaders and Jianghu gangs to watch, even though they were all affiliates of Divine Water Palace, they witnessed Liu Yanran being defeated by Shi Feiyang. Shi Feiyang's fame would undoubtedly spread again in the Liaodong Martial Arts.

He had already become a winner in life, so why pursue Liu Yanran relentlessly to the end?

At this moment, Shi Feiyang gave Liu Tingting a wink, his gaze filled with tenderness and encouragement, as if telling her that everything was in the past and the future was full of hope. Then, Shi Feiyang walked steadily to Liu Yanran, cupped his fists and bowed, standing tall like an ancient pine, showing respect for Liu Yanran.

Immediately following, he slightly bowed again to Liu Yanran, politely saying: "Elder Liu, I hereby extend my sincerest apologies! My previous actions were indeed disrespectful, if I have offended you, please forgive me."

His words carried a hint of regret, but his tone then shifted as he explained: "However, in reality, there is no deep-seated enmity between the elder and me; all conflicts originated from the grudges of Snow Eagle Castle. Moreover, I have no intention of dominating Liaodong or becoming the overlord of Liaodong Martial Arts. My wish is to lead my men southward to return to Jiangnan. Therefore, I also return Cyan Simurgh Palace to the elder. As the saying goes, harmony is most precious, and peace is the key to prosperity. Elder, I believe we should value harmony between us and avoid unnecessary conflicts."

Shi Feiyang's every word was clear and logical, expressing his apology and stating his stance and perspective, impressing everyone present with his foresight and wisdom.

Upon hearing this, Wu Chi calculated in his mind, quickly leaving quietly to seek other Jianghu gang alliances to plan an ambush on Shi Feiyang. He vowed to avenge the destruction of Snow Eagle Castle, thinking to himself: "Shi Feiyang, just you wait, I will make you pay dearly."

Liu Yanran saw Shi Feiyang treating her with such respect, and her heart was mixed with complex emotions, momentarily unable to regain composure.

She felt a tinge of emotion, as Shi Feiyang's actions demonstrated his respect for elders and his longing for peace.

However, Liu Yanran was also filled with concern about the possible schemes and traps set by Shi Feiyang, knowing well the treacherous nature of Jianghu and the unpredictability of human hearts. Shi Feiyang's sudden transformation led her to doubt if there was some hidden agenda behind.

She thought to herself: "Shi Feiyang, what exactly are you planning? I must tread carefully, not to be fooled by your superficial acts."

Nevertheless, regardless of Liu Yanran's suspicions, Shi Feiyang's magnanimity and foresight had already left a profound mark on this Jianghu, becoming a celebrated tale among people.

Faced with Liu Yanran's lack of reaction, Shi Feiyang remained calm, a trace of insight flashing in his eyes, though he did not delve into its cause.

He nodded slightly, as if saluting some invisible presence in the air, then turned and walked steadily back to Cyan Simurgh Palace, heading straight to his quarters.

Upon entering his room, he saw two maids had already set up a large bath tub, standing quietly aside, their figures graceful, their expressions respectful. Their appearances were beautiful, with eyes like autumn waters, showing a gentle demeanor in every move, enchanting ordinary people.

Though Shi Feiyang's heart stirred slightly, it was swiftly calmed by reason. His expression was serious, his demeanor serene, as a thought quickly flashed through his mind: this might be Gong Simeng's test for him.

Shi Feiyang's expression was calm, with clear eyes that showed no hint of frivolity. He merely raised his eyes slightly and softly instructed, "Thank you, ladies, you may leave now." His voice was peaceful yet carried an undeniable authority.

One of the maids, dressed in a light pink gauze dress, pouted slightly, a trace of reluctance flashing in her eyes, and coyly said, "Master, this bath was specially prepared for you by us; the water temperature is just right. Don't you want us to assist you with your bath?"

Her voice was soft and sweet, with a hint of coquettishness.

The other maid, wearing a moon-white garment, hurried to agree, softly saying, "Yes, Master, we sisters can surely serve you well." As she spoke, she took a gentle step forward, her eyes full of expectation.

Shi Feiyang's expression remained unchanged, still maintaining a gentle smile, and he replied neither arrogantly nor submissively, "I appreciate the kind gesture from you ladies, but I am accustomed to doing things myself, so there is no need to trouble you." His tone was polite yet firm, making it impossible to insist further.

Seeing this, the two maids exchanged a glance of disappointment. They stood momentarily, realizing Shi Feiyang had no special interest. Eventually finding it uninteresting, they slightly bowed, took their leave gracefully, and quietly exited Shi Feiyang's room.

Recalling the intense duel between Shi Feiyang and Liu Yanran by the cold pond at Cyan Simurgh Peak, the scene was still vivid in memory. At that time, the water of the pond shimmered, reflecting the tense figures of the two contestants. Shi Feiyang's aura surged like a rainbow, each move brimming with tremendous power, smooth and continuous as the flow of clouds and water. His gaze was resolute and sharp, firmly locking onto Liu Yanran's every movement, not missing a single flaw. Liu Yanran was equally determined, resisting with all her might, but under Shi Feiyang's fierce offensive, gradually became overwhelmed. Ultimately, Shi Feiyang achieved an overwhelming victory with his exquisite martial arts and extraordinary prowess. However, he was not intoxicated by victory but withheld the fatal blow at a crucial moment, calmly watching Liu Yanran, and generously let him go.

This event swiftly spread across Jianghu like a gale.

Shi Feiyang's mercy and magnanimity earned him great acclaim, and his fame soared in the Liaodong Martial World, where people respectfully called him Hero Shi. Gong Ci'en, Gong Yao'en, Li Jinming from Divine Water Palace were full of praise for Shi Feiyang's righteous act, marveling that his behavior exemplified noble martial virtues, and he was indeed a rare chivalrous person in Jianghu.

Following Shi Feiyang's instructions, Gong Simeng made an important decision, announcing in a steady tone to return Cyan Simurgh Palace to Divine Water Palace, and personally selecting Qingyi as the new Palace Master.

Recalling the years of working with Qingyi at Divine Water Palace, Gong Simeng had eyes full of trust and expectation for Qingyi. In handling various affairs, Qingyi exhibited excellent management skills, her mind meticulous, actions decisive, always organizing complex matters systematically.

Gong Simeng firmly believed that under Qingyi's leadership, Cyan Simurgh Palace would usher in an even more glorious future.

Meanwhile, after completing the handover of funding and related tasks, Liao Pei bid farewell to Changsheng Castle at Eagle Beak Rock and hurried to Cyan Simurgh Palace to join Shi Feiyang. Liao Pei not only enthusiastically joined Shi Feiyang's ranks but also brought along his Jianghu friends, Sect Leader Lie Quan of Qiankun Saber Sect, and his disciples.

They traveled tirelessly, their faces full of expectation, joining the Heroic Sakura Association.

In their hearts, Shi Feiyang was a leader worth following, hoping to forge a new career under his command and carve out a realm of their own in Jianghu.

After gaining the support of these new forces, Shi Feiyang was spirited, leading his followers in a grand procession southward.

Along the way, they helped the needy and performed kind deeds. Everywhere they went, Shi Feiyang personally led his disciples to distribute grain to the local people, assist the sick, always wearing a gentle smile, patiently listening to the people's appeals and solving their problems.

His benevolent acts were like warm sparks, igniting hope in people's hearts, attracting more and more people to join the Heroic Sakura Association. By the time they entered Shandong, the members of the Heroic Sakura Association had grown to over fifty thousand.

Just after arriving in Shandong, Shi Feiyang keenly sensed some unusual signs.

He and his followers had just taken their seats in the inn when he overheard a conversation among some Jianghu people at the neighboring table.

Among them, a man dressed in black tight clothes, with a large saber at his waist, lowered his voice tensely, "Have you heard, a major event has occurred in Jianghu recently!" Speaking, he cautiously looked around.

The tall, thin man sitting opposite him hurriedly leaned forward, eagerly asking, "What major event? Hurry up and say it, don't keep us in suspense!" His eyes were wide open, his face full of curiosity.

Another middle-aged man with a goatee sipped his wine unhurriedly and said, "I think it's probably another gang fighting over territory. Isn't this common in Jianghu?" His tone had a hint of disdain, seemingly having grown accustomed to the disputes in Jianghu.

Shi Feiyang's heart tightened, and he discreetly pricked up his ears, his gaze becoming sharp as an eagle, quietly vigilant.

He knew that the winds of Jianghu might soon stir again. Just then, another man with a pointed face, like an eager monkey, hurriedly leaned over, his eyes wide open, eagerly asking, "What major event? Don't keep us in suspense!"

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