King of Assassins
Chapter 91 - 90 Hongmen Feast

Chapter 91: Chapter 90 Hongmen Feast

"Direct confrontation?"

Yun Qingshang was trained as an assassin and was not accustomed to facing enemies directly.

Even if she had the advantage in power, she would try to strike first when killing, without any unnecessary words.

Bai Yuncheng is more powerful than An Shirong, and trying to kill Bai Yuncheng won’t be easy.

Although Yun Qingshang’s power had surged, she was clearly aware of her own strength. She was still a long way from being a tenth-level swordsman.

With the Crimson Heart, she barely had the strength to engage in a fight.

The problem is, Bai Yuncheng is a dignified tenth-level swordsman, a master of the Black Dragon Association, and he probably carries marvels on him.

Yun Qingshang didn’t know much about Bai Yuncheng, and she thought directly attacking was the worst approach.

Gao Xuan said, "Killing Bai Yuncheng doesn’t have to be complicated; he’s a swordsman."

Yun Qingshang, a bit concerned, asked, "Bai Yuncheng has quite a few allies; how do we deal with them?"

"It’s not that complicated."

Gao Xuan confidently said, "Just watch me."

...

The Golden Dragon Pavilion is located on Tian’an Street in the eastern section of the Fourth Ring District.

This ancient pedestrian street, with businesses operating for hundreds of years, is full of Huaxia’s traditional features.

The Golden Dragon Pavilion is renowned for its luxury, and it is considered one of the most opulent hotels in Celestial Capital City.

The style of the Golden Dragon Pavilion is resplendent, akin to an imperial palace.

The overall style of Tian’an Street is relatively simple and ancient, and the Golden Dragon Pavilion, situated at its very center, is the most eye-catching presence.

As twilight fell, hundreds of Kongming lanterns floated around the Golden Dragon Pavilion.

Eight pairs of large red lanterns were hung in front of the main entrance, combined with the vermilion door and red carpet, making the colors extremely vibrant.

The lobby manager, accompanied by a group of court-dressed beauties, stood at the door, waiting respectfully.

From a distance, he saw Fang Zhenlin, the Fang Zhenhai brothers, and their group approaching, and hurriedly bent forward to greet them.

"Greetings, President Fang."

The lobby manager dared not address them incorrectly, as the Fang brothers were fiercely competing for family assets, so he vaguely called out President Fang.

Among the Fang brothers stood a man; he was tall, with a rough face, slender eyes, and a thick mustache. He wore a black long gown and held an antique sheathed longsword.

This man’s eyebrows exuded arrogance, with his chin raised high, looking down on people with a condescending gaze.

Despite this, the sharp aura of this man made the lobby manager uneasy upon a glance. Needless to say, this was Bai Yuncheng, the Third Swordsman of the East Continent.

The lobby manager deeply bowed, "Mr. Bai’s presence is truly an honor for our establishment, Mr. Bai, please come inside..."

Bending forward, the lobby manager led the way, and at the entrance, a group of court-dressed beauties deeply curtseyed together to greet.

Bai Yuncheng didn’t even look and went directly up to Jiuyu Pavilion.

Venerable Emperor, Jiuyu Pavilion is also the largest and most expensive independent courtyard at the Golden Dragon Pavilion.

Jiuyu Pavilion was decorated magnificently, with white jade floors and redwood pillars adorned with golden dragons. On both sides were more than twenty independent platforms. The main seat was placed in the center.

The center of the banquet was a large open space, generally used for dance performances. On one side of the wall was a Golden Dragon sheathed treasure sword.

This dazzling treasure sword, said to be a replica of an ancient emperor’s sword, is worth millions.

The walls were adorned with various auspicious beasts and clouds, creating a grand and magnificent scene.

The entire layout was entirely modeled after an ancient imperial palace.

Of course, modern people, though emphasizing grandiosity, rarely choose to sit in the main seat. Even if there are status differences, it’s unreasonable to surround the host alone.

Bai Yuncheng, however, disregarded this and sat in the main seat without hesitation.

The Fang brothers were not surprised, having gotten to know this temperamental character over the past few days.

Bai Yuncheng was notably temperamental, extremely picky, and disdainful of others. He would scold at will if displeased.

Being with Bai Yuncheng, the brothers felt every day was like a year.

If their success didn’t depend on Bai Yuncheng, the brothers truly wouldn’t want to serve this person.

Bai Yuncheng sat in the main seat and directed the Fang brothers to act as greeters.

The Fang brothers were reluctant, fearing it was too dangerous to greet at the door. If someone sneaked a shot, they’d be dead.

However, they had no say in front of Bai Yuncheng.

The Fang brothers could only obediently stand at the entrance, greeting the guests.

Bai Yuncheng was quite arrogant, sending invitations to many dignitaries in Mingjing City.

Including the Xu Family, Jiang Family, and even Wei Yue received an invitation.

These families all replied, stating they would definitely attend the banquet.

The Fang brothers had been mingling in Mingjing City for many years, and regardless of their reputation, they were at least familiar faces.

No matter who came, they could warmly greet and chat for a while.

Fang Zheng from Sword Washing Studio, Bai Yutang from Zhengqi Hall, the Law Enforcement Minister, Vice Minister Xu Mountain of the Response Department, Jiang Haoran from Da Jiang Group, Jiang Xuejun, Qingyi Qianhe from Yan Gui Sword Hall, Qingyi Fei Niao, and Jiang Yuan, the Sword Dao Chief Instructor from Mingjing University, etc.

Dignitaries from all sectors gathered, creating quite a lively scene.

Wei Yue arrived with Xu Yin, accompanied by Wei Ming.

The Fang brothers were somewhat surprised to see Wei Yue appear.

Wei Yue had agreed to come, but she didn’t have to attend the banquet in person.

After all, it was a banquet hosted by Bai Yuncheng, who knew if it would turn into a Hongmen Feast.

Huaxia has a long tradition in this regard.

Not only were the Fang Brothers surprised, but other guests were also a bit astonished to see Wei Yue entering.

On the other hand, people couldn’t help but admire Wei Yue’s courage. She was indeed bold, capable of taking down An Shirong.

The Law Enforcement Minister didn’t look pleased. Because of An Shirong’s matter, he was under immense pressure, almost losing his position.

However, Wei Yue executed her plan cleanly. He had no evidence. The Wei Family was also powerful, and he dared not trouble Wei Yue.

Some even thought Wei Yue was bold and wise, admiring her greatly.

Take Fang Zheng, for instance, who as a neutral party, did not like An Shirong’s domineering ways.

An Shirong’s assassination and the subsequent collapse of the An Family were seen as favorable outcomes for other major families in Mingjing City.

Everyone felt relieved; even An Shirong’s allies didn’t enjoy having such a forceful alliance leader.

As a result, many extended their goodwill to Wei Yue.

Sitting at the head table, Bai Yuncheng observed Wei Yue with interest. She was indeed a beautiful woman with a remarkable presence, much more striking than on screen.

Bai Yuncheng wasn’t fond of women; he merely made an objective observation.

He was arrogant but wouldn’t underestimate a woman daring enough to assassinate An Shirong.

"Is this President Wei? You are indeed more impressive in person than by reputation. It’s a pleasure to meet you."

Bai Yuncheng gestured to a seat on his left, "This seat is reserved for President Wei, please sit."

Although Bai Yuncheng valued Wei Yue, he didn’t stand to greet her. Wei Yue’s rank wasn’t enough to merit it.

Wei Yue didn’t mind; she had already researched Bai Yuncheng and knew his arrogant personality.

She didn’t wish to converse much with Bai Yuncheng, so she nodded slightly and took her seat with Xu Yin and Wei Ming.

Noting that the time had come and everyone had arrived, Bai Yuncheng stood and raised his glass to the guests. "I came to Mingjing City twenty years ago and met some of you here. Returning after twenty years and meeting old friends is indeed sentimental. This toast is to my old and new friends here."

Though arrogant, Bai Yuncheng, as a top swordsman of the East Continent, projected a strong aura.

Whether allies or foes, everyone raised their glasses in response.

Bai Yuncheng set down his glass and smiled with satisfaction. "Today, we talk only of delightful matters, not grievances. Any issues, we discuss tomorrow."

He raised his glass again, "Cheers."

After drinking in one go, he refilled his glass and said, "This third toast is for Mr. Wei Ming. He was once the renowned Ice Swordsman, yet chose solitude and remained hidden. Such endurance is worthy of respect."

Wei Ming raised his glass with a wry smile, "Mr. Bai’s insight is sharp, I am impressed."

Everyone present looked at Wei Ming in surprise, mostly not knowing who he was.

However, the name Ice Swordsman was familiar to many.

Twenty years ago, the Ice Swordsman was quite famous in the East Continent. The hallmark of those who died by his sword was a body turned ice-cold and stiff, as if frozen to death.

For unknown reasons, the Ice Swordsman vanished over ten years ago. Many thought he was dead.

No one expected Wei Ming to be the Ice Swordsman, hiding his identity this deep.

Even Xu Yin was surprised, not knowing Wei Ming was the Ice Swordsman.

Wei Yue smiled apologetically at Xu Yin, not intentionally hiding it from her. Wei Ming’s case was complicated and has long been a secret of the Wei Family.

Bai Yuncheng was satisfied with the shock on everyone’s faces; with three toasts, he had already taken control of the banquet.

Especially with Wei Ming, whom he identified abruptly, putting him at an immediate disadvantage.

While Bai Yuncheng claimed to speak only of trivial pleasures, he was undermining Wei Ming’s aura and confidence in this manner.

A tenth-level swordsman wouldn’t have much disparity in swordsmanship. The real differences lie in combat awareness and will.

These changes are subtle at the spiritual level, and even the best swordsmen can’t explain them clearly.

While physical states can be measured, mental states cannot. They rely on the swordsman’s own grasp.

A swordsman in good mental health can always exceed expectations. Otherwise, they may only harness a fraction of their potential.

This is the so-called "train the mind before the sword."

Before acting, swordsmen often attempt to demoralize their opponents.

A swordsman battles with technique, power, and speed.

A true master competes in swordsmanship, sword qi, and sword intent.

Thus, those below the tenth level are referred to as swordsmen. Only upon reaching level ten do they qualify as true masters.

Bai Yuncheng had greatly shaken Wei Ming’s aura and confidence; without making a move, he already had a three-point advantage.

Wei Ming was well aware, yet he followed Wei Yue here to assess Bai Yuncheng’s true capabilities.

Unexpectedly, his identity was exposed first, immediately placing him at a disadvantage.

Wei Ming felt helpless, but he was indeed pinned down, failing to conceive a counter.

Moreover, Bai Yuncheng’s aura was undoubtedly stronger, with fierce sword intent evident in his expression.

The Third Swordsman of the East Continent had honed his sword intent through years of battle to such sharpness.

Wei Ming, having spent over a decade in the laboratory, experienced progress in swordsmanship, yet his sword intent had dulled. Compared to Bai Yuncheng, it was greatly lacking.

Many observant people present, although perhaps not highly skilled in swordsmanship, had significant insight. They all perceived Wei Ming’s predicament.

Numerous individuals thought to themselves, "Wei Yue’s situation is not looking good..."