Slag Shou Cultivating Manual - Chapter 66

Faced with Ao Li’s recurring agitation, He Lang raised an eyebrow, considering his options. He decided not to push him further and casually asked if Ao Li was tired of staying at the Jingxin Temple and suggested they visit another place.

Ao Li, expecting a confrontation, was surprised when He Lang quickly shifted the topic, effectively melting the ice between them. Relieved, he asked, “I thought you’d be unhappy.”

He Lang waved his fan, the refreshing breeze seeming to dissipate any lingering frustration. “I don’t wish to say much, but don’t forget, your father was much the same, harboring years of hatred. In the end…” He Lang’s voice trailed off, the unspoken words carrying a heavy sadness that made Ao Li’s heart ache.

Ao Sheng, unable to let go, had nurtured his hatred for years, which became an obsession. It led him to establish the Demon Sect, neglect his family, and ultimately, find only his wife’s belongings after her death, unable to see his son again. He must have died with regrets.

As Ao Li pondered this, he fell into silence, overwhelmed by a sense of loss that felt like an ant crawling on his heart. It was unbearable, and with nowhere else to release it, he could only helplessly embrace the person before him, hoping for more affection and salvation from He Lang.

He Lang lowered his gaze and patted Ao Li’s head, urging him to calm down. For over twenty years, Ao Li had been arrogant and domineering, indifferent to others’ feelings. But since He Lang’s arrival, he had been constantly restrained and guided, recognizing that if he continued his reckless behavior, he might lose He Lang.

Seeing Ao Li’s gloomy expression gradually ease, He Lang’s demeanor relaxed, and he smiled, saying, “If you want people to love you, you must first love others.”

Ao Li, unsure if he fully understood, looked out the window, squinting slightly as he mentioned being hungry and wanting to go down the mountain for meat.

He wasn’t inclined to be that benevolent or spend time loving others; his only desire was to love the person before him. He didn’t need the world’s love, just that of this one person to be completely satisfied.

Though surprised by Ao Li’s sudden desire to go down the mountain and see the bustling streets and enjoy fine dining, He Lang quickly accepted the change in mindset. It showed that Ao Li’s defenses were slowly breaking down and that he was willing to interact with the world and reconcile.

Previously, Ao Li would have avoided crowded and bustling places, preferring to stay in quiet, scenic areas. But now, stepping down from his high position and mingling with ordinary people brought him an unexpected interest.

The simple yet vibrant street stalls, various small shops, the lively sounds of vendors, storytellers in tea houses, and diners discussing topics in restaurants all became vivid memories for Ao Li. Perhaps because of He Lang’s company, this seemingly incompatible life felt quite enjoyable and colorful.

The bustling places were abuzz with anticipation and curiosity about the new selection of the leader of the Martial Arts Alliance. The old leader, feeling his age and unable to manage conflicts effectively, planned to retreat and leave the position to a more capable successor.

This transition had caused some chaos in the righteous faction, stirred up by Ren Bozhong. The selection process was being discussed everywhere, from taverns and inns to streets and alleys, with people speculating about the new leader and treating it as a topic of casual conversation. Thus, He Lang and Ao Li, who had been frequenting public places, were also aware of it.

The selection would be based on traditional martial arts matches. Due to recent issues with Ren Bozhong, many were wary of their peers, making it difficult to identify a universally accepted candidate. The only way to determine the best candidate was through a martial arts competition.

He Lang, having overheard some discussions, smiled and nudged Ao Li, “If you entered the competition, you’d definitely stand out and win first place, stunning everyone.”

If Ao Li were to become the leader of the Martial Arts Alliance, wouldn’t that be considered a great achievement? He Lang, with anticipation, looked at him.

Ao Li, having no initial interest in the matter, had no concept of the position or its implications. Even if he did, he didn’t believe he could be accepted by others. Despite his recent good deeds, his reputation as the Demon King still overshadowed him, and such a label couldn’t be easily changed.

Ao Li shook his head, glancing at He Lang as if to discourage his unrealistic expectations.

However, He Lang remained enthusiastic, “How will you know the outcome if you don’t try?”

Though He Lang anticipated that Ao Li would face criticism if he participated, he was confident in Ao Li’s abilities. Ao Li had always used only a fraction of his power and could easily defeat experts from his own sect. If he went all out, he would be a formidable opponent in the martial world.

He Lang wanted Ao Li to try not only for the position but also to help him release some frustration and find some enjoyment. The idea was to let Ao Li find pleasure in showing off and confronting those who criticized him, potentially easing his mood.

Ao Li, intrigued by He Lang’s persistent suggestions, agreed to participate in the competition, despite having never done so before. The idea of dealing with critics and finding some amusement in it made the prospect more appealing.

Even with the decision made, neither of them prepared extensively, continuing to enjoy their time until the event arrived.

Since Ao Li had rarely ventured out, no one recognized him at the waiting area for the competition. People speculated that he was a wealthy young master rather than a competitor, given his refined demeanor.

A few martial artists who recognized He Lang approached and, after some polite conversation, asked, “This imposing young man looks unfamiliar. May I ask who he is?”

He Lang politely nodded, glancing at Ao Li. Seeing his lack of reaction, he introduced, “This is the leader of the Demon Sect, Ao Li.”

The others were taken aback, thinking He Lang was joking. They looked at Ao Li again, recalling rumors about a connection between Zhuo Shulang and the Demon Sect. They were too wary to show any overt reaction, offering complex expressions before retreating to their seats, avoiding further conversation.

He Lang, resigned, laughed and saw Ao Li pull him to the far edge of the seating area. “This is best, no one to bother us, peaceful.”

Ao Li squinted slightly, as if resting.

The competition began promptly at the scheduled time, with various experts showcasing their skills in a dazzling display of martial arts. The sounds of swordplay and energy were intense, even felt as waves on the sidelines.

He Lang watched intently, but Ao Li showed no interest in participating. He rested his head lazily, occasionally glancing at the arena, seemingly confident in his understanding of the situation.

**Author’s Note:** Finally revised TAT. I’ve been unwell and feeling down lately, so it took me a while to get back to writing. I’m sorry (＞人＜；).