Chapter Twenty-One: Visitors from the Gu Family?

This modest remark, delivered with an air of humility, was met with thunderous applause throughout the hall.

For Li Yun's earlier performance could only be described as overwhelming, a true display of dominance—one might even call it a swift and absolute defeat. Of course, this was purely a contest of fists and skill. As the chief of the bandit stronghold, Li possessed unmatched prowess in hand-to-hand combat. Were everyone armed, and he without armor, caution would be his only recourse. It was for this very reason that he had fallen into the hands of those constables that day—each wielding a gleaming long blade, and a single misstep could have cost him his life.

Now, however, with only fists and feet in play, he could rely heedlessly on his physical advantage, enduring blows without fear, and, against four opponents at once, deliver a performance that dazzled the crowd.

Magistrate Xue’s face was aglow with delight.

If, at first, the tale of his daughter being rescued by a wandering hero had seemed a little contrived, after this public display, every rumor and whisper would be utterly dispelled by Li Yun’s formidable presence, erased as if they had never existed.

Moreover, the spectacle of one man facing four opponents would quickly become the talk of the town, and the name “Li Zhao” would spread far and wide, completely overshadowing whatever had once clung to his daughter’s reputation.

Li cast his gaze over the assembled gentry of Qingyang, a faint smile on his lips. “Gentlemen, since I am in high spirits today, if anyone else wishes to challenge me, please come forward.”

After the previous bout, anyone with sense could see that none present had the ability to contend for the position of captain against this warrior. To pursue the matter further would only risk angering Magistrate Xue.

Immediately, every face broke into radiant smiles, and compliments flowed freely.

“Brother Li, you are truly formidable!”

Merchant Zheng stepped forward, taking Li Yun’s sleeve in admiration. “I have loved martial arts all my life, and today I have finally witnessed true mastery. When you have time, Brother Li, please visit my estate and offer some guidance to those clumsy fellows of mine.”

Li, the chief, smiled gently. “I dare not presume to instruct, but I would gladly visit and learn from your family’s talents when the opportunity arises.”

Magistrate Xue looked around the room and laughed. “Now, does anyone still have objections? If not, I will immediately issue the appointment for Li Zhao.”

Everyone responded in unison, gladly accepting the outcome.

Li Yun frowned slightly.

He had come to Qingyang for two reasons: first, to return Miss Xue to her home and thereby neutralize the threat hanging over the Cangshan stronghold; second, to use this favor to secure a “legal” identity for himself—a travel pass, an official document, and so on.

Such things would make it much easier for him to travel and expand his operations.

He had no intention of serving in the government.

Having observed it a few times, he found the officials of this era rather unimpressive. He lacked both pedigree and education, and should he devote his life to public service, he would likely remain a mere headman, with little prospect for advancement.

Besides, he doubted the dynasty would last long enough for him to grow old in service.

Li was about to decline, but Magistrate Xue caught him by the sleeve. The magistrate still wore a smile, but his voice dropped to a low murmur.

“Accept it.”

“We can discuss the rest later.”

Li Yun considered for a moment, then stepped back and bowed respectfully to Magistrate Xue.

“Humble Li Zhao thanks the magistrate for his favor!”

“Think nothing of it,” Magistrate Xue replied, raising his cup and addressing the crowd with a broad smile. “Let us raise our glasses in a toast to Captain Li!”

The prominent figures of Qingyang immediately lifted their cups, each offering Li Yun their congratulations.

Thus, the former bandit chief of Cangshan, who only days before was an outlaw, now found himself with an official identity. Though it was still humble—merely a minor functionary, far from even the lowest rank of official—it was, nonetheless, legitimate.

Now, even if he traveled outside Qingyang, his new status would bring much convenience.

And so, what began as a banquet of thanks became a celebration of Li’s “promotion.” Many surrounded him, offering toast after toast.

After several rounds, the feast drew to a close. With Magistrate Xue’s command, the festivities officially ended. Li staggered to his feet and saw the gentry and local dignitaries off.

Once most of the men had departed downstairs, the ladies on the second floor began to descend. A few bold women approached Li Yun, their gazes sweeping up and down.

Those too shy to speak merely covered their mouths, giggling; others, more daring, came forward to chat, asking Li how old he was and whether he was married.

For an inexperienced young man, such a scene might have been mortifying and bewildering.

Fortunately, Li had seen his share of grand occasions and handled their inquiries with ease.

As the last flirtatious widow cast him a sultry glance and departed, Li savored the moment, reflecting quietly.

The customs of this era...

Were not particularly conservative.

For just now, among those women, someone had taken advantage of the chaos to squeeze his backside—quite possibly that cheeky widow!

While Li was pondering this, a familiar voice sounded nearby. “Would you like me to introduce you?”

Li turned and saw Miss Xue standing quietly a short distance behind him, watching him intently.

Li smiled. “No need. I may not stay long in Qingyang.”

Glancing at Magistrate Xue, who was conversing with his wife, Li coughed softly and lowered his voice. “Miss Xue, your father has seen through the ruse. I have no choice but to tell him the truth, though at present he believes I am Li Ma’s elder brother from Cangshan…”

“Don’t let that slip,” she cautioned.

Li lowered his voice further. “Otherwise, I might simply leave Qingyang altogether, and you’d have trouble explaining it to your parents.”

Miss Xue bit her lip, muttering, “You’re full of lies…”

Li shook his head, helpless. Before he could reply, Magistrate Xue strode over. Li coughed again and met him with a rueful smile. “Sir, I am not prepared to stay in Qingyang…”

Magistrate Xue glanced at his daughter, then drew Li aside. “Your display today has made your name famous in Qingyang. No one will challenge your appointment as captain.”

“You should remain in Qingyang for at least a year or so. Only then will matters settle. Otherwise…”

He continued, “We would have to revisit the issue.”

Li’s eyes darted, then he smiled. “Sir, I can stay and serve, but I cannot be in town constantly. I may be away frequently.”

“That’s no problem.”

He looked at Li, then glanced around to ensure no one was close before speaking in a low tone. “If you wish to visit your brother in Cangshan, just notify the county office—say you’re leading men to search for bandits. Such matters are easy to arrange.”

Li couldn’t help but give a thumbs-up.

“Sir, your reasoning is impeccable.”

Magistrate Xue led Li outside and spoke softly. “But for the time being, you must not leave Qingyang. There is something I need your help with.”

Li smiled. “What is it?”

“In a few days, the Gu family will likely send someone.”

Magistrate Xue spoke slowly.

“I need you to set things straight with them.”

Li chuckled. “You still wish to marry your daughter into their family?”

“Whether she marries or not,” Magistrate Xue snorted, “matters must be clarified. But their family…”

Even Magistrate Xue could not help but grit his teeth.

“They are truly outrageous…”