Chapter 87 Chapter Five Night Talk on the Yangtze River

At dusk, warships sailed out of the bend of the river, entered the Yangtze River, and sailed upstream to Baling, while cargo ships also went up Hebei. When Kou Zhong opened the door and entered Xu Ziling's room, the latter was adjusting his breath, except that his face was still a little pale after blood loss, he didn't look like he had just been hit by a sword at all. The two sat on two chairs by the window. Kou Zhong sighed: "Xiao Ling, you are really courageous. At that time, I was really afraid that she would not be able to hold back and would kill you. Afterwards, thinking about it, I would break out in a cold sweat."

Xu Ziling smiled wryly and said: "This is the only solution, otherwise how would she step down? If we fight together, it won't matter who gets hurt." Kou Zhong showed a thoughtful look, and said slowly: "The death of Ren Shaoming not only changed the situation in the south, but also changed our destiny, and made us the target of public criticism. Although it has always been like this before, our situation will be more dangerous now. .” After a pause, he continued: "There are two people we must be on guard against. Guess who I want to talk about?" Xu Ziling murmured: "Is one of them Ba Fenghan? When Shan Wanjing let me go, I felt that he was planning to kill me. The other one must be Qu Ao, the Tiele thief?"

Kou Zhongdao: "If it's Qu Ao, it's up to you to guess. What I want to talk about is Yang Xuyan. He wanted to assassinate Xiang boy, and he was clearly helping Lin Shihong and Ren Shaoming, but now we have killed him." Ren Shaoming, it's no wonder he didn't come to seek our misfortune." Xu Ziling looked at the river bank under the moonlight outside the window, sighed, and shook his head again, as if he wanted to shake off all his troubles. Kou Zhong tentatively said: "Even Ba Fenghan can see that the evil princess is very interested in you." Xu Ziling replied absent-mindedly: "So what if it's interesting. The Dongming faction has the most strange rules, and the princess has already appointed a son-in-law. More importantly, I don't want to marry a wife and have children at all. I just want to spend this life freely. Ambitious like you, what saves the world and the people."

Kou Zhong said distressedly, "He's playing tricks on me again." Xu Ziling said solemnly: "I'm just talking about the facts. In terms of strategy, if you can marry Song Yuzhi, it is indeed the best strategy." Kou Zhong looked up at the roof of the cabin, with longing in his eyes, and then a layer of bewilderment, and dreamily said: "It is undeniable that she has something very attractive to me, but I can't treat her like I did to Li Xiuning. It's a dreamy, sleepless feeling, both painful and joyful. Alas! Is it because I have been taught by Li Xiuning that I no longer have the courage to break through the emotional barrier?"

Xu Ziling shook his head resolutely, and said with a smile: "Li Xiuning represents a critical turning point in Zhong Shao's life. From that moment on, you shifted your longing for beautiful things to your career. So you still can't figure out whether you love her or not. When I went to Song Yuzhi, I resolutely decided to marry her. Because for you, nothing is more important than fighting for world hegemony, so everything can only be viewed from this aspect. Am I wrong?" Kou Zhong was stunned and said: "Then I have lost the ability to fall deeply in love with a woman forever?"

Xu Ziling sympathetically said: "This is what you want and you will lose. Choice is choice. If you choose this, you will naturally lose the others." Kou Zhong scratched his head and said, "Can I choose from both at the same time? How about finding a balance?" Xu Ziling said angrily: "Suppose Li Xiuning came to you now and told you that she finally found out that she loves you, and begged you to grow old with her. In this situation, would you give up on Song Yuzhi?" Kou Zhong was immediately speechless. At this moment, Yun Yuzhen pushed the door open and came in, and said with a bright smile: "What are the two great heroes talking about? Can I participate?"

Kou Zhong patted his thigh and said with a smile: "Master Beauty, are you interested in sitting on the most comfortable meat chair in the world?" Yunyu gave him a very charming look, sat on the edge of the bed, and said to Xu Ziling: "Does it still hurt? To you, the princess should be..." Seeing Kou Zhong gesturing to him continuously, Yunyu changed his mind and said: "Hey! I almost forgot to tell you the latest news, He Shibi has appeared!" Kou Zhong moved, "How about the details?" Yun Yuzhen said: "It is widely rumored in the world that Ning Daoqi will go to Luoyang on the Dragon Boat Festival to hand over Heshibi to Shi Feixuan."

Kou Zhong and Xu Ziling were bewildered. Xu Ziling was puzzled, "Is He's Bi in the hands of Ning Daoqi?" Kou Zhong was interested in another aspect, and asked, "Who is Shi Feixuan? The name should be the daughter's family." Seeing that the two were interested, Yunyu happily said: "This news is obviously full of doubts. First of all, neither of the two parties will miss this kind of news that can cause endless troubles, and the rumor-monger must be very imaginative and better at figuring out people." psychology." Kou Zhong frowned and said, "You haven't said who Shi Feixuan is?"

Yun Yu really cast a glance at him and said, "Are you interested as long as the other party is a woman?" Kou Zhong laughed dumbly and said: "Master, my beauty, even if you said that the person Ning Daoqi wants to hand over He's Bi is called Kou Laoniu, I will be very interested in this Kou Laoniu. This is called targeting people. peace, not gender." Yunyu really smiled and said: "Master, I blame you! Have you ever heard of Cihang Jingzhai? She is very similar to the Yingui sect. She has the supreme status, but is also secretive. It's evil!" Xu Ziling's tiger eyes were shining brightly, and he said slowly: "Then this concubine Xuan will be the candidate of this generation to represent Cihang Jingzhai in the decisive battle with the Yingui faction."

Yun Yuzhen nodded and said: "So you also know about the two sects of righteousness and evil. If you killed Ren Shaoming this time, the Yingui Sect will definitely not give up." Kou Zhong smiled and said: "If there is no such enemy as the Yingui Sect, I will never be able to ascend to the level of a master like Ning Daoqi." Yun Yuzhen stared at him for a while, and couldn't help asking: "Do you want to be the emperor or a real martial arts master?" Xu Ziling said indifferently: "Master Beauty said these two things are as easy and easy as being a salt owl or being a cook. For Zhong Shao, these two goals are the fish and the bear's paw, and they both want to get it quickly."

Yunyu said happily: "Xiaoling, it's been a long time since you called someone a beauty master! What's the wind blowing today?" Xu Ziling sighed: "Every frown and smile of the beautiful master tonight, there is a sense of sincerity that I didn't have before, which touched my heart and reminded me of the beautiful days when I first met you." Yun Yuzhen trembled slightly, looked at Xu Ziling, then at Kou Zhong, lowered her head and said softly: "When I knew you, you were still young urchins, and now you have killed and dominated the south for more than ten years. I suddenly realized that you have finally grown into independent martial arts masters." After a pause, he sighed again: "Although I have plotted against you, in fact, the conflict in my heart was terribly painful at that time. I don't know why, but I always feel that I have a special affinity with you, and I am willing to trust you and do things for you. I am I don’t really trust Master Xiao.” The last sentence was as thin as a gnat. Kou Zhong's eyes shone brightly, and he said in a low voice, "If Master Beauty is willing to help me, I promise to treat you well." Yun Yuzhen said helplessly: "I hope you won't forget this guarantee one day, Xiaoling is the witness." Xu Ziling showed a bitter smile. Kou Zhong is gradually completing his plan; establishing his own power and prestige, and successfully killing Ren Shaoming is the most important pass; He expresses surrender, and it involves attraction between men and women, which is more complicated. If Kou Zhong did something wrong to Yun Yu in the future, what would Xu Ziling do?Kou Zhong showed a touching smile to Yun Yuzhen, and said softly, "Don't worry, master beauty! I know how to respect my master best. That's right! Then what kind of person and martial arts is Master Concubine Xuan?" Yunyu was really affected by the charm of his smile, and said happily: "Master Concubine Xuan is like Shi Qingxuan, who exudes a mysterious smell everywhere. Not many people have seen her, but everyone who has seen her will be impressed by her. Intimidated by an extraordinary and refined temperament, she seems to represent the most beautiful thing in the world, which makes people admire, but will never arouse lust. No matter men or women, they will feel ashamed in front of her a feeling of." Kou Zhong and Xu Ziling were stunned when they heard that, there is such a person in the world. Xu Ziling wondered: "Isn't she a nun? Why do you choose a layman's name?" Yun Yuzhen replied: "No one knows, but although she has beautiful hair like a cloud and uses a layman's surname, Xingzang is no different from a monk. Her life is hard and simple." Kou Zhongrao asked with interest: "What weapon does she use?" Yun Yuzhen shook her head and said: "On the surface, she does not wear a weapon. I have never heard of her fighting with anyone. It is said that it is too late for anyone who meets her to respect and admire her. How can she arouse the desire to kill?" Kou Zhong was surprised: "Master, why do you know so clearly? Judging from your tone, you have seen her before, haven't you?" Yunyu Zhenxiu's eyes showed melancholy and hurt, and she lowered her head and said: "Hou Xibai said it before we separated. He is one of the people Shi Feixuan respects. He once traveled with her in the Three Gorges and talked about the past and the present. .Ugh!" Kou Zhong and Xu Ziling exchanged glances, both felt Yun Yuzhen's attachment and pain for Hou Xibai. When Hou Xibai was mentioned last time, she refused to answer, but this time she spoke out frankly, obviously expressing her heart to Kou Zhong, and not wanting to cause misunderstanding in the future. She turned to Kou Zhong because she might have borrowed him to forget Hou Xibai's difficulties. Xu Ziling frowned and said, "Doesn't Hou Xibai feel ashamed at all in front of her?" Gentleness flashed across Yunyu Zhenxiu's eyes, and she said in a low voice: "He is a very special person, free and easy. He is talented in literature, has deep insights into things, or only he is worthy of being friends with Concubine Shixuan. " The two looked at each other in astonishment, and only then did they understand Hou Xibai's position in Yunyu's heart.Even though they broke up sadly, they still couldn't extricate themselves. Xu Ziling said: "Didn't Hou Xibai want to pursue Shi Feixuan? Who is he and what is his background?" Yun Yuzhen replied: "He is a mysterious figure. No one knows his origin, but he has endless money in his pocket. He is determined to visit famous prostitutes all over the world. He is more proficient in piano skills and knows how to compose music." , versatile, that's why he is called the passionate son. It was because I was curious about him that I deliberately met him in a brothel in Yushan, but I don't know, alas, I don't want to talk about it." Kou Zhong said lightly: "Let's not talk about this matter, how is his martial arts, what kind of weapon is he using?" Yun Yuzhen said: "His martial arts can only be described as deep and unfathomable. He debuted only five years ago, and over a hundred flower-picking thieves died in his hands. He used a big folding fan with beautiful women on it. It was him. Hand-painted it by himself. Every time he meets a woman he likes, a portrait of a beautiful woman will be added to the fan." Kou Zhong said in astonishment: "This kid is really a romantic seed." Yun Yuzhen sighed, and said sadly: "Can we stop talking about him?" There was a knock on the door. Kou Zhong asked: "Who!" Song Yuzhi's voice sounded outside: "Is Mr. Xu free? I want to have a few words with him." Xu Ziling and Kou Zhong were shocked. What did she want to say to Xu Ziling in private? Xu Ziling followed Song Yuzhi, stepped out of the cabin, and the river wind blew in his face, refreshing him. The giant kun gang working on the deck, seeing him coming out, hurriedly called Master Xu, with a more respectful demeanor than before. This may be the power and influence that came from the assassination of Ren Shaoming. Song Yuzhi strode towards the stern of the boat.Although her gait is not as graceful as Shen Luoyan or Yun Yuzhen, but she still has a pleasing vigor. When she stopped at the stern, Xu Ziling came to her and remained silent. Song Yuzhi let his hair flutter in the wind, put his hands on the railing of the boat, and sighed quietly: "Are you a quiet person? Or don't you want to talk to me? Don't ask why people don't avoid suspicion. call you here." Xu Ziling looked at the vast river under the moonlight, and there were more than ten fishing boats moored in the distance on the left bank, with dim lights showing faintly. When he thought that each light represented a warm home, he felt a burst of emotion in his heart. They have lacked a real home since they were young, and they may not have one in the future.And he was used to not feeling at home. Taking a deep breath of the river wind, Xu Ziling said flatly, "Miss Song, please speak frankly." Song Yuzhi said goodbye to his pretty face, looked at him, and said with a smile: "How can you and Kou Zhong become closer friends than brothers? Your personalities are so different." Xu Ziling met her gaze, shrugged his shoulders and said, "It's called one is willing to fight and the other is willing to suffer. It may be that he was much more innocent when he was a child, and he soon got used to and accepted the other party." Song Yuzhi's beautiful eyes were as bright as the twinkling stars in the sky, showing an expression of reminiscence, and said calmly: "I haven't been like a girl since I was a child. I always like to play with the boys at home, and I also treat myself as a boy." , and more curious than other children. When you see a mountain, you will ask people what is behind the mountain. When you see a river, you want to know where the river is going." Xu Ziling laughed hoarsely and said, "It's really unexpected, why does Miss Song think of these childhood memories?" Song Yuzhi frowned and shook his head, "I don't understand either, maybe it's because I trust you and feel so relaxed when I'm with you!" Xu Ziling said in astonishment: "This is even more unexpected to me. Ms. Song and I just met for the first time, so why would you trust me? Don't forget that Zhong Shao and I are in the same group, so everyone else regards them as two brats or two thieves. Come and call us." Song Yuzhi gave a rare "puchi" coquettish smile, and said with a glance at him: "You are actually not inferior to Kou Zhong at all in your cunning, but you have always been reserved, so that people do not notice your strengths in this aspect. But my first When I first saw you, I could tell that you are a naturally chivalrous person who thinks of others first, so I am willing to trust you, knowing that you will not lie to me." It was the first time Xu Ziling came into contact with her feminine and charming side, he was stunned for a while, and smiled wryly: "Can I stop asking that question?" Song Yuzhi looked up at the starry sky and said slowly, "Can you guess what I want to ask?" Xu Ziling nodded dejectedly, and said in pain: "No matter what Kou Zhong is, he is my good brother. If you ask me about him, how should I answer?" Song Yuzhi lowered his head and looked down at the sparkling river reflecting the stars and moon in the sky, and said in a deep voice: "All I want is the truth, Xu Ziling! Show your chivalrous heart and tell me Song Yuzhi, is Kou Zhong just using me?" Xu Ziling saw that her eyes were bright and focused, shooting out deep hatred, and said with a wry smile: "Miss Song called me out so late, saying that it was such a thing, didn't she tell Kou Zhong that the kid was upset, and he must have a way to insinuate afterward. to extract information from me." Song Yuzhi replied calmly: "So what if you know? He has already seen that I am in a state of confusion, so I must know the truth, and you have already told me the answer." Xu Ziling remained silent, and after a while, he said softly, "Where did I give Miss Song the answer to this matter?" Song Yuzhi said lightly: "You didn't say it, but since you refused to help him deal with me, doesn't Yuzhi understand your intention?" Xu Ziling sighed: "This trip was miserable, that kid will definitely blame me to death!" Song Yuzhi smiled and said: "You are so honest, alas! I can't help laughing unexpectedly. Is this a pleasure in bitterness?" Feeling her gentle and lovely side, Xu Ziling felt pity for Dasheng, and said softly: "Kou Zhong may be a shrewd person who only cares about practical things, but he is not a bad-hearted person, and his feelings are especially rich. It's just that Now he is devoting all his attention to his dream of winning the world, and he regards everything else as secondary! Alas! Does that count as helping him?" Song Yuzhi's eyes flashed with excitement, he shook his head and said, "No! You are just telling the truth, Kou Zhong is by no means a bad person, he is even more ambitious, he is Song Yuzhi's ideal husband in every aspect. But I know he is not Wholeheartedly treat me, I knew it from the beginning. Alas! But knowing this, why am I still willing to go to Baling with him? If I firmly refuse, Second Uncle will not be able to do anything to me." Xu Ziling smiled wryly and said, "It seems that Miss Song is already unable to extricate herself from my brother!" Song Yuzhi showed a confident smile, and said calmly: "It's wrong, I am not unable to extricate myself, but I chose to face this challenge. This is my Song Yuzhi's character, and I will never shrink back. I am here with you, just to see Let's see how many axes and tricks that nasty guy Kou Zhong has." Xu Ziling was puzzled and said: "Miss Song has such intentions, and she has seen through Kou Zhong's intentions, why did she still ask me to say these things?" Song Yuzhi had a bitter smile full of helplessness, and said softly, "Because I'm afraid that my second uncle will persuade my father to sacrifice his daughter's happiness for the sake of 'Mr. Yang's treasure house'." Xu Ziling thought to himself that this possibility seems very high, Song Zhi is an old fox, Kou Zhong is counting him, he is counting Kou Zhong, and Song Yuzhi has become their pawn. Shen Sheng asked: "Are you really not happy with Kou Zhong at all?" Song Yuzhi sighed, and said calmly: "If I really don't have any affection for him, I don't have to be so troubled now. If I don't have feelings for him, for the benefit of the family, I will not reject him, because I know that no matter what the situation is I won't be sad for him. But now I'm scared, do you understand how I feel?" Xu Ziling deeply understands her contradictory feelings; she loves and hates her, but also is not convinced. In any case, Kou Zhong has hurt her to some extent. Song Yuzhi suddenly stretched lazily, and said with a smile, "I'm done talking, I feel so much more comfortable! Xu Ziling, you really didn't disappoint me, you won't help the evil, maybe you can become my savior." With a sweet smile, he walked away easily. Xu Ziling was left alone in a daze at the stern, thinking about the deep meaning of her last words. Xu Ziling knocked on the door of Kou Zhong's room, and Kou Zhong responded, "Xiaoling? Come in!" Xu Ziling knew that Yunyu was really not in the room, so he opened the door and walked in without worry. Kou Zhongzao rushed over, hugged his shoulders overjoyed, and said with a smile, "I'm so poor that I don't know how hard it is? I'm afraid you will give me a bad face if I ask you." Let me see. Hee! Is she empathizing with you? Haha! Two brothers in the same world, if I am really unlucky, Zhong Shao, I will bear the pain and give in to love, and then try to make up for the scars in my heart Bar!" Xu Ziling smiled wryly and said, "Song Yuzhi's eyesight is perfect, I've already seen that you kid is just using her instead of really falling in love with her." Kou Zhong said in astonishment: "She is more powerful than I imagined. It seems that I lost more than I won in this battle. If I had known that I would have simply kept the beautiful master here, I would not have to worry about being lonely tonight. Sigh! Don't be serious, I just I'm joking, so as to ease the pain in my heart." Xu Ziling said unhappily: "You know how to see the wind and sail the sails, you don't feel anything at all. The one who suffers the most is me. On the one hand, I am a good brother, and on the other hand, I am a good woman; my good brother is going to lie to that A good girl's feelings, and I can only encourage her not to be deceived by hints." Kou Zhong let go of the hand on his shoulder, and said in a voiceless voice: "What? Then am I going to lose love again? Quickly bring the wine!" Xu Ziling sat down dejectedly, shook his head and sighed: "Stop pretending. If you continue to fight for the world with this kind of method that will hurt others, I will leave you!" Kou Zhong sat down on the other side of the couple, and said with an apologetic smile: "The relationship is cultivated, I promise I won't hurt her, but it's useless to say, now the matter is over, you are satisfied!" Xu Ziling pondered for a while, then said slowly: "Once a matter between a man and a woman begins, no one can be sure how it will end. As your friend and brother, I have to give you some advice. Feelings are sharper than swords." , and there are sharp edges on both sides, you have to take care of yourself." Kou Zhongsu said: "I will remember your advice, and I will never make a mistake in this regard. Now I will go to Song Yuzhi to announce the cancellation of the engagement, so that she doesn't have to worry anymore." After saying that, he opened the door and left, leaving Xu Ziling smiling wryly.