Chapter 21: Better to be a dog in times of peace than a human in times of chaos

"Wu Gensheng, Gu Jiting... I truly never expected them to seek me out on their own initiative."

On the main road, Zhao Zhen pondered his current predicament while making his way forward. There was no doubt that after the incident at the Yinghe Tower, this leader of the Quansheng sect, Wu Gensheng, had developed some interest in him; otherwise, he would not have traveled thousands of miles with Gu Jiting just to find him. However, given Wu Gensheng's character, combined with the information Zhao Zhen had intentionally leaked to him earlier, as long as he didn't provoke him, the man certainly wouldn't go out of his way to cause trouble.

The most pressing matter right now was Liu Wanshan of the Xiangxi Corpse-Driving Sect. Since Zhao Zhen had intervened to ruin his plans and failed to kill him on the spot, he had undoubtedly earned the man's grudge. Being targeted by such a truly wicked member of the Quansheng sect was far more headache-inducing than dealing with Wu Gensheng. Therefore, when traveling, it was best to meddle in other people's business as little as possible.

Take the village massacre, for example. Even though Zhao Zhen had prepared as thoroughly as possible and had used lightning-fast, ruthless measures to silence everyone present, man proposes but heaven disposes. The arts of the world of outcasts are bizarre and myriad; even after wandering for so long, Zhao Zhen dared not claim he had seen every technique. Just like Liu Wanshan’s corpse-driving method—though he didn't know what evil art had been used to make the corpses possess an aura indistinguishable from the living—it had, regardless, successfully deceived his eyes.

"Hmm, perhaps I can take advantage of the upcoming Lu family banquet to connect with some friends from the righteous path and stage a 'righteous crusade' against this Liu Wanshan."

How did that saying go? The best defense is a good offense. To avoid having to look over his shoulder for the rest of his life in fear of Liu Wanshan’s revenge, Zhao Zhen decided to strike first. Once he publicized the truth about Liu Wanshan’s brutal massacre of the village, he wouldn't have to worry about finding "hot-blooded youths" bursting with a sense of justice to volunteer for a "crusade." Once he gathered three or five such people, he could purchase information on Liu Wanshan’s whereabouts from the Xiaozhan intelligence network, and then, with his own "Golden Escape" technique, descend upon him like a divine soldier!

Tsk, the imagery was perhaps a bit cruel. At the very least, if he put himself in Liu Wanshan's shoes, just the thought of it made his head ache. At this realization, his previously heavy heart began to lighten. Humans are, after all, social creatures; spending too much time in isolation eventually leads to a dark, melancholy state of mind. In an era without many forms of entertainment, Zhao Zhen’s method of relieving stress was quite simple:

"The rain falls from the heavens, the thunder rumbles, fish dart about in the shallow creek, and I dare not speak of my longing for the maiden..."

***

Two days later, the Lu family estate.

In an era where war and riots were constant, life was bitter not just for ordinary folk, but for those in the world of outcasts as well. After all, living on the Central Plains, how many could truly remain detached from the chaos? The old master of the Lu family was celebrating his eightieth birthday, a grand occasion intended to serve as the perfect opportunity to pass the mantle of family head to Lu Jin’s father, Lu Xuan. As a result, the Lu family had sent out invitations far and wide, inviting friends from all across the circle.

As it happened, this year was relatively peaceful, with no major wars breaking out, so everyone had the same idea: to take this opportunity to enjoy themselves. Consequently, before even reaching the Lu estate, Zhao Zhen had already spotted many famous figures from the circle along the road. The leaders of the Jiyun Society, the Huode Sect, the Yanwu Gate, and others had all arrived with their most favored disciples in tow. Furthermore, the other three of the "Four Families"—the Gao, Wang, and Lu families—were naturally in attendance.

Honestly, having traveled north and south for years, Zhao Zhen hadn't seen such a lively scene in a long time, given the incessant wars. Yet, perhaps because he had personally experienced the peace of a future era, he felt deep down that compared to the prosperity of his past life, the liveliness of the Lu family still fell far short. Shaking his head with a sigh, he muttered, "Better to be a dog in times of peace than a human in times of war. It may sound like an exaggeration, but it is indeed the truest reflection of the hearts of those living in these chaotic times."

"Little one, you are not old, yet your sentiments run deep."

As he mused, a familiar voice suddenly spoke from behind him. Zhao Zhen turned to see Zuo Ruotong, the leader of the San-Yi Gate, who had quietly approached within a few meters. He was nodding at him with a smile.

"Junior Zhao Zhen pays his respects to Sect Leader Zuo." Zhao Zhen clasped his hands and bowed respectfully.

"Before we set out, Jin'er told me he had sent you an invitation and that you had replied promising to attend. But when news of the Yinghe Tower incident spread, he was worried you might feel awkward and not come. I never expected you to arrive after all."

"Since I gave my word to Brother Lu, I must do my utmost to fulfill a promise made."

"As for the issue of my identity, if the elders of the Lu family find it troublesome, I shall simply take my leave when the time comes."

"Haha, when you visited my San-Yi Gate years ago, I said that as long as you do not commit any treacherous or evil acts, the doors of San-Yi will always be open to you. Since you are here at Jin'er's invitation and we have happened to meet, why not accompany me to the banquet?"

Zhao Zhen looked up, a flash of gratitude crossing his eyes. He had been worried that his identity might cause discomfort at the old master's birthday banquet, but with Zuo Ruotong by his side, all problems would be resolved. Even if others were troubled by his presence, out of respect for the "Immortal of Daying," they would surely hold their tongues.

"Thank you, Sect Leader Zuo!" Zhao Zhen bowed deeply again, his reverence for this man deepening further.

"Think nothing of it; it is a small favor. Let us go."

"Yes."

Following behind Zuo Ruotong and watching his thin, yet remarkably straight back, Zhao Zhen couldn't help but sigh again. Li Muxuan, oh Li Muxuan, with the chance to study under such a virtuous master, what more could you possibly be dissatisfied with? I had no choice; if not for the old man, I would have likely been reincarnated the day after I transmigrated, so I have accepted this identity. But you? You held a winning hand and played it into ruin, throwing away one card at a time just for your rebellious desire to remain "unstained." How long do you intend to be so willful?

After the mess he had caused at the Yinghe Tower, although Li Muxuan hadn't clashed with the people from the Qingzhu Garden again, given his temperament, it was only a matter of time before he caused trouble. Tsk, the next time they met, he would have to discipline him a little on behalf of Sect Leader Zuo.