Chapter 82: The Fierce Duel

There were many noble ladies in the Spring Fragrance Court, and though men were forbidden entry, their hearts could not be restrained. These young women were prized assets, and who wouldn't wish to win their favor?

Take, for instance, the third son of the Cui family, Cui Chengxiu. Born to the legitimate wife, he was the youngest among his siblings, with the family business shouldered by his elder brothers. Free from heavy responsibilities and pampered as the youngest, he devoted himself to pursuits much like Jia Baoyu in the Red Chamber—immersed in the company of girls. With his noble lineage and the handsome features bestowed by his parents, Cui Chengxiu was unstoppable, mingling with noblewomen and young ladies alike.

He came to the Spring Fragrance Court in pursuit of the daughter of a minister, only to be struck by the minister's daughter's teacher—a woman of unparalleled beauty. At once, he forgot all about the minister's daughter. This woman had flawless skin, a stunning figure, captivating looks, and long legs. Her bearing was exceptional, and according to the maids, she was skilled in archery and horsemanship. She owned a famous horse worth several thousand coins; her family background was certainly distinguished.

Wasn't such a wealthy and beautiful woman meant for the sons of noble families, to prevent men of humble origins from rising above their station? As scions of great houses, they felt it their duty to uphold the order and prevent such things from happening.

While beauties were not rare among noble offspring, a "Rouge Tiger" was seldom seen. To be seen with one would cause all peers to admit defeat, bringing prestige and glory.

As for the rumor that she had been introduced by Lord Li Jinglong of Hexi County, Cui Chengxiu scoffed, "That old man is past his prime; why should I fear him?"

He neither knew nor cared about the relationship between Feng Xiaobao and Tang Tian, nor did he concern himself with family affairs. He was unaware that his family had issued a warning not to provoke Feng Xiaobao in business.

...

Tang Tian showed no interest in young gentlemen like Cui Chengxiu. She held these empty-headed heirs in contempt; without their families, they were nothing. Any man wishing to be her suitor would have to best her in combat.

Near the entrance of the Spring Fragrance Court, Cui Chengxiu introduced himself warmly, only to be met with Tang Tian's cold refusal, as she rode away. When his servants tried to block her horse, she lashed out with her whip and escaped.

"Such a fiery woman—but I like her!" Cui Chengxiu said, self-assured.

Unable to enter the court himself, he sent gifts and food through the female attendants inside, all of which were promptly returned. He waited at the entrance, attempting to intercept Tang Tian, but it was Feng Xiaobao who appeared.

One strong and valiant guard blocked Tang Tian's horse, and Tang Tian, still mounted, struck out with her whip, "Move aside!"

---

The guard was as solid and imposing as a tower. Tang Tian's whip landed on him as if merely scratching an itch.

Her horse, though spirited, was hemmed in and unable to break through. Seeing her predicament, the nearby servants grinned, "Lady Tang, our young master sincerely invites you..."

"Out of my way!" Tang Tian said, annoyed.

Cui Chengxiu, fanning himself with affected nonchalance, said, "Lady Tang, I've booked a table at the Garden of Spring Colors. Won't you honor me with your presence?"

Just as he was preparing to use his silver tongue to persuade her, a rider approached, voice cold, "What are you doing here?"

"Husband, he won't let me leave!"

"What? Daring to stop my wife—you're bold indeed!" Feng Xiaobao and Tang Tian's relationship had grown close, and they often called each other husband and wife in jest.

The newcomer was tall and broad, casting a shadow over Cui Chengxiu. At first, Cui was startled, but soon dismissed Feng Xiaobao.

Feng's horse was ordinary, as Cui Chengxiu could tell from his knowledge of horses. His attire was plain, lacking any official garments or fine accessories. His wealth was invested elsewhere, and he wasn't truly a businessman—true businessmen paid great attention to their appearance.

Most importantly, he lacked the aura of a noble family's son. Despite his pride, Cui Chengxiu could immediately discern that they were not the same kind of people.

Recognizing Feng Xiaobao as someone of humble or nouveau riche origin, Cui Chengxiu paid him no mind and lazily remarked, "Lady Tang, your choice in men is rather poor!"

Tang Tian gazed at Feng Xiaobao with affection, "He is strong!" Then, with mischievous intent, she said, "If you don't believe it, why don't you two fight?"

The two men reacted differently: Feng Xiaobao was amused and exasperated, while Cui Chengxiu's expression darkened.

For a man, nothing is more humiliating than being told he's weak, especially in front of a beauty.

Cui Chengxiu was furious. He looked over Feng Xiaobao's muscular frame, comparing it to his own, worn thin by wine and women, and decisively ordered, "Together, attack him!"

One-on-one wouldn't do, but he had plenty of men—why fight alone? No matter how strong the opponent, he would see him beaten. Then Lady Tang would never claim he was strong!

All that mattered was victory. Cui Chengxiu reveled in his thoughts, dreaming of triumph.

...

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Hearing Cui Chengxiu's words, Feng Xiaobao leapt from his horse.

The servants surged forward. Feng Xiaobao took a punch to the shoulder, and Cui Chengxiu cried out in delight, "Quick, attack—" His words were abruptly cut off.

Before he finished speaking, the servant who struck Feng Xiaobao was sent flying a yard away, clutching his stomach and groaning, kicked hard by Feng Xiaobao.

Then Feng Xiaobao charged into the crowd, like a tiger among sheep. Seven or eight servants were knocked down by his fists and feet; not one could stand against him. They couldn't even see how he moved.

Within moments, all Cui Chengxiu's servants lay groaning on the ground. But they suffered only bruises; none were crippled or had broken bones.

Seeing this, the guard who blocked Tang Tian's path grew wary, "He's a real fighter!"

When outnumbered, the key is to avoid prolonged fighting. Feng Xiaobao understood this well, moving swiftly to end the conflict.

The guard stepped forward, swinging a punch at Feng Xiaobao's chest. Feng blocked it with his right hand, then struck the guard's nose with a reverse punch.

The guard staggered back, face contorted with pain, but forced himself to return with a flying kick. Feng Xiaobao anticipated the move, caught his leg, and with a powerful shove, sent the guard soaring several meters before crashing heavily to the ground.

"Bravo, bravo!" Tang Tian applauded.

The guard scrambled to his feet, seeing his master's displeasure and feeling anxious. He understood that Feng Xiaobao had shown mercy—otherwise, his nose would have been broken.

To block his punch showed greater strength and agility; how could he win this match?

He was experienced and had no desire to provoke such an opponent, but could not risk angering his master. In desperation, he drew his sword.

The blade rang out, cold and bright.