Chapter 343: The Iron-Faced Man

Chapter 343: The Iron-Faced Man

Outside the City Lord's Mansion.

Even the most curious onlookers couldn’t peek inside, so a crowd had gathered there, murmuring to each other.

In their conversations, most believed that Wu Daoyou stood a strong chance of becoming the new Grand Leader of the Fallen Phoenix Alliance that day.

Many supported this view.

Of course, some also thought that Wei Ziyi might just defy all odds and, with Wei Ruhan’s support, forge a new legend.

However, this notion was difficult for others to accept.

After all, even if Wei Ruhan could override all dissent and single-handedly push through making Wei Ziyi the Grand Leader, others might endure it temporarily but never indefinitely.

Once Wei Ruhan passed to the west, the isolated Wei Ziyi would either be overthrown from her position as Grand Leader or witness the complete splintering of the Fallen Phoenix Alliance.

The four major cities would fall under separate rule.

But this raised another question: Could Wu Daoyou tolerate sharing dominion over the same city with Wei Ziyi?

No matter how one looked at it, Wei Ziyi’s fate looked grim.

The only hope lay with Chief Escort Su of the Ziyang Escort Agency.

Unfortunately, he was not in Sunset City that day—otherwise, Wei Ziyi might still have had a chance.

Amid the incessant chatter of the crowd, no one noticed that a group of ill-intentioned operatives had quietly dispersed around the City Lord’s Mansion, poised to strike.

Meanwhile, a withered old man sat quietly at the base of the northern city wall, gnawing on an ear of corn.

His teeth were practically useless, making it a real ordeal.

So, he had to pluck the kernels off one by one, placing them in his mouth and chewing with his last two remaining molars, making his whole jaw work overtime.

Inside the City Lord’s Mansion.

After Chi Lu had laid down his words, a dead silence fell over the hall.

Even the Grand Leader Wei Ruhan did not utter a single word.

This left Chi Lu momentarily uneasy, but he suppressed his anxiety and spoke again:

"Leader Wei is the Grand Leader’s own granddaughter.

As the saying goes, a son inherits his father’s mantle.

The Grand Leader originally had three sons, each of whom met their destined end.

Fortunately, by heaven’s grace, one granddaughter remains.

When it comes to blood ties, none could rival Leader Wei."

"In terms of martial arts, Leader Wei is also the top disciple of the Cold Moon Palace.

"The Cold Moon Palace is one of the Seven Great Sects in the eastern city, tops in both rep and clout.

"Leader Wei’s training under this sect is a big plus for pushing east.

"If our Fallen Phoenix Alliance can be led by Leader Wei, the future will undoubtedly be a whole new ballgame."

After finishing his speech, he felt a little better.

Today, he was truly just along for the ride—speaking when it was his turn to speak and standing his ground when needed.

Wei Ruhan, hearing this, peered up and shook his head gently:

"The matter of kinship isn't worth harping on.

"The Fallen Phoenix Alliance takes in talent from everywhere. Basing succession solely on blood ties isn't good enough.

"Hmm, the rest makes some sense.

"Everyone, feel free to say your piece."

After Wei Ruhan’s words, the room got even quieter.

After what felt like forever, someone finally spoke softly:

"I believe... this isn't the right call."

The speaker was Luo Ningguang.

All eyes immediately turned to him.

Luo Ningguang stood up and gave a martial salute.

Wei Ruhan smiled:

"Ah, it’s young Luo. Spit it out—no need to hold back. Today's an all-hands meeting, so let's hear it.

"The position of Grand Leader is a big deal, as everyone here surely understands.

"It's precisely through collective wisdom that we must select someone who not only has the support of others but also earns people's trust."

"Yes."

Luo Ningguang nodded in agreement:

"Leader Wei is no doubt a solid pick. However, If you ask me, it's still too early for her to assume this position.

"Though Leader Wei is the Grand Leader’s own granddaughter and comes from good stock,

"she's ultimately wet behind the ears. The role of Grand Leader concerns the necks and paychecks of tens of thousands of our Fallen Phoenix Alliance brethren

"and the welfare of the regular people across four cities, three rivers, and two bays.

"To entrust Leader Wei with such responsibility now doesn't sit right...

"In my view, Leader Wu, whether we're talking skills or time served, is way better suited to lead."

"So, I recommend Chief Wu Daoyou to take the position of Grandmaster. What do you all think?"

After speaking, he first looked at Zeng Youwang.

He had expected Zeng to be the first to respond, but to his surprise, Zeng sat there in silence, as if he hadn’t heard a word.

This left Luo Ningguang momentarily speechless.

"I disagree."

A voice came from the corner.

Luo Ningguang turned in surprise and saw that the speaker was none other than Xu Junsang, who had been quietly studying his palm lines all this time.

Now looking up at Luo Ningguang, Xu smiled and said:

"Chief Wu’s martial arts are strong, and his experience is solid... but we’re electing the Grandmaster of the Fallen Phoenix Alliance, not deciding who’s the oldest among us.

"Clearly, neither age nor experience should matter."

Luo Ningguang was completely caught off guard—Xu Junsang, who had previously shown no inclination, would voice such an opinion.

For a moment, whether it was Xu Lu or the other alliance leaders present, everyone stared at him.

Luo Ningguang let out a loud laugh:

"Well, this is interesting. If not age or experience, then may I ask, Chief Xu, what should we base our decision on?"

Without hesitation, Xu Junsang stood and declared:

"Our Fallen Phoenix Alliance stands as a local force.

"But above all, we’re still martial artists of the jianghu.

"In the jianghu, it’s all about skill and reputation.

"We all know each other well—forget character—today, it’s about who’s strongest.

"So I say, whoever has the highest martial skill should lead as Grandmaster."

"Bullshit!"

Chi Lu slammed the table and rose to his feet:

"Just because someone’s strong, they can be Grandmaster?

"Not character, not experience, not age, nor even kinship?

"If so, Hell, why not just ask Chief Escort Su from Sunset City—or even the top fighter in Donghuang—to take the seat?

"In terms of martial arts, who could possibly defeat him, the undisputed top fighter in Donghuang!?"

"Chief Chi, cut the crap. We’re choosing our leader within the Fallen Phoenix Alliance—what’s Chief Escort Su got to do with it?"

"True, Chief Escort Su’s got no place here. But you, Xu Junsang, are talking nonsense, twisting things around—clearly, you’re just after the Grandmaster’s spot."

"That’s a damn lie."

Xu Junsang, however, waved his hands repeatedly:

"I, Xu, am nothing special and know my own limits well enough.

"If I were to become the Grand Alliance Leader, the Fallen Phoenix Alliance would surely crumble within three days.

"Therefore, I have another candidate to recommend."

"Oh?"

Luo Ningguang and Chi Lu both turned their gaze to Xu Junsang.

Then, Xu Junsang announced: "I nominate Alliance Leader Zeng Youwang for the position of Grand Alliance Leader of our Fallen Phoenix Alliance."

Immediately, all eyes shifted to Zeng Youwang.

Zeng Youwang seemed somewhat taken aback and quickly cupped his hands respectfully, saying:

"Alliance Leader Xu’s high regard truly leaves me honored and humbled."

Chi Lu and Luo Ningguang stared at Zeng Youwang in shock.

Just as they were about to speak, Wei Ruhan suddenly chuckled:

"Well, you all seem set on your choices.

"Chi Lu supports Ziyi.

"Xiao Luo [Xiao = ‘young’/affectionate prefix] supports Xiao Wu.

"Xiao Xu now supports Xiao Zeng...

"Flower City’s Master Hua, with these three factions at a stalemate, where do you stand?"

"This..."

Hua Qianyu paused briefly. She glanced at Wei Ruhan and smiled faintly:

"The Fallen Phoenix Alliance is quite the spectacle now.

"At present, the only ones who haven’t expressed their stance seem to be me and Ziyi, no?

"Well, since the Grand Leader’s asking... why not back Ziyi too?"

"Master Hua... you—!?"

This stunned not just Chi Lu.

Luo Ningguang and Xu Junsang were just as shocked.

Hua Qianyu, as the Second Alliance Leader of the Fallen Phoenix Alliance, outshone even Wu Daoyou in martial arts and clout.

She herself was one of the strongest contenders for the position of Grand Alliance Leader—the only hitch was her lack of backers...

Yet now, she had unexpectedly backed Wei Ziyi to become the Grand Alliance Leader, blindsiding everyone.

Most assumed she’d stay neutral at best.

Zeng Youwang knit his brows, while Xu Junsang was left gaping.

Luo Ningguang lowered his head in silence.

Only Chi Lu burst into laughter: "Leader Wei has a keen eye for talent. I also believe this is the right solution."

Having said this, he looked around at the gathered crowd, his initial unease completely vanishing, replaced by a sense of triumph:

"Everyone, each of you supports one candidate, but Leader Wei has both my support and Flower City’s Lord’s. Isn’t that enough to decide the winner?

"Does anyone still have anything to say?"

Wu Daoyou remained silent for a long while before letting out a heavy sigh. He then cast an icy glare at Zeng Youwang:

"I never imagined Leader Zeng Youwang would harbor such bold ambitions...

"In that case, from this day onward, Wu Daoyou will no longer be part of the Fallen Phoenix Alliance!"

"This..."

"Leader Wu, watch your words!"

Wu Daoyou’s defiance shocked everyone.

After uttering those words, he whirled around to leave immediately.

"Wait!"

Zeng Youwang grabbed his arm to stop him.

"Move."

Wu Daoyou paid him no heed.

With a swipe of his hand, Zeng Youwang shifted his stance, and Wu Daoyou naturally countered.

At first, it was just a single-handed exchange, but soon both hands were involved.

The two began trading blows within the hall, their movements growing increasingly fierce.

What started as a simple spar soon escalated into a full-blown clash of tempers.

Lethal moves started flying.

"Leaders, stop this!"

The others tried to mediate, but Xu Junsang remained silent, stepping forward to jump into the fight.

Having supported Zeng Youwang from the start, he naturally targeted Wu Daoyou.

Though Wu Daoyou was skilled in martial arts, caught between two attackers, he inevitably became vulnerable.

As he was nearly overpowered, Luo Ningguang dove in.

The four leaders of the Fallen Phoenix Alliance were now brawling within the grand hall.

Bodies flashed across the room, going all out.

What began as hand-to-hand combat soon escalated into an armed fight.

Standing to the side, Chi Lu watched the fight unfold, grinning from ear to ear.

It's a dogfight.

Just as things seemed unresolved, a dull thud was heard, followed by a shadowy figure lunging at him with crushing force.

In shock, he instinctively reached out to catch them.

Before he could sense anything amiss, he suddenly felt as if his chest and abdomen had been struck by lightning.

He violently coughed up blood and was sent hurtling backward.

Meanwhile, the person he had caught regained their footing, turned to look, and exclaimed in shock:

"Leader Chi!!"

Then, they turned back and glared furiously at Luo Ningguang:

"A damn fine 'Mountain-Piercing Strike'!"

This person was none other than Xu Junsang. After his furious shout, he turned back and unleashed a barrage of brutal strikes.

Luo Ningguang's martial arts were already slightly inferior, and under Xu Junsang's relentless assault, he was forced purely on the defensive.

"You bastard!"

Wu Daoyou, witnessing this, also flew into a rage:

"Zeng Youwang, leash your dog!!"

"So Alliance Leader Wu lost his power grab—must he stoop to insults?"

Their rage only grew as they fought. Wu Daoyou's blade flashed menacingly, its energy sweeping through the hall.

Zeng Youwang, however, fought barehanded, relying instead on extraordinary footwork as he darted and dodged.

Hua Qianyu observed quietly, shooting a glance at Wei Ruhan.

Wei Ruhan merely shook his head slightly.

Wei Ziyi, meanwhile, frowned deeply and was about to head toward Chi Lu when a blade's energy whizzed past her face.

She froze mid-step and turned back, only to hear a loud crash—Luo Ningguang had been sent crashing outside.

In the next moment, clashing steel rang out again from beyond the hall.

Within moments, a thunderous boom shook the entire hall as the doors were smashed open, and a mob poured in, brawling fiercely.

Some sided with Wu Daoyou, others with Zeng Youwang; some sought to protect the Grand Alliance Leader, while others rushed to defend the Young Miss...

In an instant, the hall of the Fallen Phoenix Alliance erupted into bedlam.

Chi Lu lay on the ground, and before he could react, he was stomped on repeatedly, the pain jolting him awake from unconsciousness.

He looked up, still unable to comprehend what was happening in the hall.

Before he could make sense of it, several more wild and unrelenting kicks landed on him. He didn’t even know how to defend himself before he was knocked unconscious again.

By this point, the situation had spiraled completely out of control.

Inside and outside the hall, the clash of combat echoed everywhere.

But suddenly, a booming laughter was heard approaching from afar.

In an instant, it had already reached the front of the hall:

"The Fallen Phoenix Alliance holds sway over the southwest—quite the reputation! Seeing it today, it sure lives up to the hype."

"Other factions fight for power, scheming and backstabbing are unavoidable."

"But only the Fallen Phoenix Alliance has the gall to brawl right out in the open..."

At this point, the tone suddenly shifted, turning sharp and cold:

"Aren't you ashamed?"

The voice, powered by inner energy, echoed through the entire manor and beyond. Even those outside the walls heard it loud and clear.

Earlier, the sounds of fighting from within the manor had tipped off the crowd that things had gone south. Talk had turned to fists. Now his words sealed it.

Some, curious, shoved forward, and as their numbers grew, even the Alliance’s guards couldn’t hold the line.

In moments, a group of martial artists swarmed the Alliance’s grounds.

Among them, some just wanted a show. But the majority had other plans!

Not stopping at the courtyard, they charged straight toward the city lord's main hall.

Real onlookers, figuring they just wanted a better view, followed suit.

As expected, within a few steps, they were blocked by the Alliance’s disciples.

The actual bystanders turned to go, only to witness these so-called "spectators" going straight for blood.

The genuine onlookers were stunned:

"All this for a show?"

By the time they realized what was happening, it was already too late to retreat.

Before and behind them, a crowd had locked it down, sealing off the city lord's manor completely.

At this very moment, two men marched into the hall.

One wore an iron mask, walking with head held high.

The other had his face concealed, entering the hall side by side with the iron-masked man.

The one who had spoken earlier was none other than the iron-masked man.

His inner force overwhelmed all present, dwarfing everyone else's.

Zeng Youwang stepped forward first:

"And who are you supposed to be?"

"Today is the internal conference of our Fallen Phoenix Alliance. No outsiders allowed!"

The hall now held more than just the original eight alliance leaders. Their subordinates were also present.

Huang Yuan, the chief steward, stood beside Wei Ziyi and then moved closer to Wei Ruhan. Hua Qianyu remained seated, unchanged in her composure.

However, when the iron-masked man entered, she couldn’t help but fix her gaze on his face, frowning slightly as a faint sense of recognition flickered within her.

"Outsider?"

The iron-masked man let out a booming laugh:

"After over twenty years of searching through life and death, upon my return, I’ve become an outsider?"

"Who are you?"

Wei Ruhan studied the man intently. "What is your purpose here today?"

"Old man..."

The iron-masked man also turned his gaze to Wei Ruhan. "Do you truly not recognize me?"

As he spoke, he suddenly took a step forward, and the iron mask tore free with a thunderous howl, streaking directly at Wei Ruhan.

Wei Ruhan frowned slightly, only to see Wei Ziyi step forward, her Star-Piercing Sword lashing out.

Steel shrieked against steel, the sound reverberating through the hall.

The clash lasted but a heartbeat before the iron mask shattered into pieces, flying apart in jagged fragments.

Wei Ziyi retreated, sheathing her sword and returning to Wei Ruhan’s side. She placed one hand behind her back, hiding how her hand was torn and dripping blood.

Yet, none spared her a glance—all eyes were fixed on the now unmasked man.

Some were stunned speechless, others drew sharp breaths, and a few stumbled back aghast.

Wei Ruhan’s eyes narrowed to slits, his expression one of utter disbelief.

Only Hua Qianyu spoke softly:

"Wei Qixiong... you live?!"