Lin Feng estimated that it had been too long since he last returned, and the capital no longer recognized him. "Come here," he called out.
The guard descended two steps, and without further ado, Lin Feng raised his hand and slapped him, testing whether he would recognize him.
"Hey! Why are you hitting me?" the guard exclaimed. "Someone come!"
Before long, the steward led a dozen people out from within. Just as he was about to explode in anger, he caught sight of who it was and immediately bowed deeply. "Fourth Prince, you have returned!"
Seeing the steward bow, everyone else followed suit, bowing in respect. The guard's eyes widened in disbelief, his face pale with fear.
Lin Feng couldn't be bothered to argue with him; he was the type to be easygoing and carefree, unwilling to waste energy on such trivial matters.
The steward, noticing Lin Feng's expression, quickly said, "Drag that person away and give him a good beating! How dare he offend a prince? He deserves to die!"
"Yes!" came the reply.
Two men approached from behind, ready to drag the guard away. Just then, Lin Feng spoke up. "Never mind, just give him twenty lashes."
After saying this, Lin Feng walked into the estate, feeling the familiar atmosphere wash over him, stirring a complex mix of emotions within. This place had once been where he lived, but now it felt somewhat alien.
He couldn't help but reminisce about the time spent here—the laughter, the arguments, and moments of growth. Lin Feng took a deep breath, reminding himself to face the challenges ahead with strength.
He knew that the situation in the capital was intricate and fraught with power struggles and conflicts of interest.
Sunlight filtered through thin clouds, cascading down to illuminate the entire capital. It was now the second morning since Lin Feng's return to the city.
Today, he was to go to the palace for an audience with the emperor. Although he had been away from the capital for three whole years, stepping onto this familiar land again made him realize that every blade of grass and every street corner seemed to have changed significantly.
The marketplace was bustling with activity, filled with the sounds of vendors calling out their wares. Children laughed and played in the streets, their innocent laughter seeming to penetrate the hearts of those who heard it.
After finishing his breakfast, Lin Feng stepped into the courtyard just as dawn was breaking. He took a deep breath of the fresh morning air and slowly drew the long sword from his waist.
His movements were as graceful as a swallow, and his swordplay was sharp as the wind. A set of exquisite sword techniques unfolded in his hands. Each move contained boundless power and elegance, drawing the attention of onlookers.
The intricate sword techniques Lin Feng practiced originated from the vast and mysterious Royal Library within the palace. In this martial-centric society of the Wu Dynasty, where martial prowess was revered, Emperor Wu had arranged for teachers for each of his sons from a young age to cultivate their skills.
While all his brothers dabbled in martial arts, only Lin Feng displayed an extraordinary passion and dedication. He tirelessly studied swordsmanship day and night, immersing himself completely in it. He meticulously refined every move and every exertion of force, striving for perfection.
As time passed swiftly, it became clear that few could maintain such unwavering dedication to martial arts as Lin Feng did. It was precisely this uncommon focus and perseverance that had allowed him to become a Zong Shi, with swordsmanship that was profound and awe-inspiring.
Within the grand and majestic Royal Library, it seemed to house the most exquisite and breathtaking martial arts manuals from across the land. Here, not only were there various powerful sword techniques, each containing unique and profound essences, but also an array of sword manuals detailing countless variations and unpredictable moves.
Lin Feng chose to focus on swordplay. Beyond these common weapon techniques, there were numerous precious methods dedicated to cultivating internal energy and unarmed combat. Among them, internal cultivation methods were like hidden pearls in the deep sea—concealed yet brimming with endless energy; once mastered, they could allow one's internal power to flow like an unending river.
The unarmed combat techniques were diverse; some were fierce and overwhelming, capable of shattering mountains with a single punch or kick; others employed softness to overcome hardness, appearing light and weak while concealing deadly intent.
Time passed quickly. After completing his set of sword techniques, Lin Feng sheathed his sword and looked up at the position of the sun in the sky, estimating the time in his mind.
He thought that his father must be nearing the end of his morning court session. Thus, he adjusted his attire and walked steadily toward the palace.
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