On February 2, the dragon raises its head.
The almanac on this day states that it is advisable to visit relatives and friends, and fasting and worshiping are prohibited. However, there is no recovery of Yang Qi all day long, only heavy rain and thunder. This heavy rain started five days ago, and it has been raining heavily until now, with no intention of clearing up at all.
The city of Guangzhou is a place with excellent Feng Shui. Suzaku is the Pearl River in the south, Xuanwu is Yuexiu Mountain in the north, and Green Dragon and White Tiger are the two waterways of Xijiang and Dongjiang. This is a rule that has not been shaken for thousands of years.
However, due to the dense water network in the city, the rising water from consecutive days of heavy rains has flooded the inner city. There have been reports of flooding in many low-lying areas. Several water gates entering and exiting the city are being widened as much as possible in order to drain more water. Guangzhou city will be flooded if this continues.
for this sudden heavy rain.
Oh no, it should be said that it was a heavy rain that was cleverly predicted by the natural monk. Jiang Wen could only sigh at the magical saying "The heavy rain is coming". If the rain continues like this, the city of Guangzhou will one day float to the sea, and the whole city will People have become food for fish and turtles.
At this time, Jiang Wen was walking with his disciples holding umbrellas, stepping through the long muddy streets under his feet, waving away the misty and rising water vapor in front of his eyes, and walking toward the center of the city with one foot deep and one foot shallow.
No matter how unexpectedly bad the weather is, the Luo Heroes' Golden Bowl Washing Ceremony, which is well-known in Guangdong and Guangxi, is still determined not to be held at another time. The martial arts people who come from all over the world for this event boast of three hundred and sixty-six people on weekdays. I am used to seeing wind, swords and frost in ten days, so I am not necessarily afraid of this kind of horrible weather.
"Hurry up, disciples. If you go late, you won't be able to catch up with the excitement."
Jiang Wen stood on the street corner and finally saw the Jindao Luo Mansion, a wealthy family.
In front of the door there has been built a ceiling three feet high, and there are twelve teams of lions with high and narrow foreheads and big and swivel eyes. Accompanied by the sound of gongs and drums, twelve teams of lion dancers took up their Kainanquan postures and stepped on the piles to soar, move, dodge and pounce. The lions' appearance was vivid and eye-catching.
Since ancient times, lion awakening in Guangdong has been considered an auspicious object to ward off evil spirits and avoid harm. It has a hint of Nuo opera. During festivals or major events, lion awakening must be performed to add to the fun. This trend has been passed down from generation to generation.
I saw that the waking lions were not giving in to each other, and they were competing to climb up the "stacked arhat" with dozens of people, step up along the bottom of the five or six-story "people mountain", and began to compete for the water in the basin.
As the fight intensified, the outsiders naturally burst into cheers. The residents of the city gathered in front of the mansion to watch the excitement despite the heavy rain. They all commented on which lion could come out on top and who could shine.
Although the heavy rain was cold, it could not dampen the enthusiasm of the onlookers. Luo Mansion seemed to have cleverly used this method to avoid the crisis of being left in the cold in front of the door and enjoying themselves today.
At the same time, to people in the martial arts world, the lion's movements of "opening eyes," "washing beards," "licking body," and "shaking hair" may seem naive and funny, but in fact they are powerful and powerful, and the southern martial arts background is vaguely revealed in the playfulness. . The lion awakening skills of these Luo family disciples are enough to deter those who want to cause trouble, and they also appear to be intimidating but not revealing. It is indeed a good idea.
"Master, let's watch for a while and then go in."
Fu Ningdie couldn't help but be attracted by the lion dance performance. At this time, she was holding an umbrella carefully for fear that the rain would stain her new clothes, and she grabbed Jiang Wen's clothes and said.
"It just so happens that I have to wait for someone too."
Jiang Wen stopped at the corner of the street and took his apprentice into a restaurant under the verandah to watch from a distance, "Just in time to see who is here today, but don't let them steal our limelight."
"Um!"
Fu Ningdie recognized the limelight so much that she immediately forgot about complaining about the rain.
Today, not only Fu Ningdie, but also Hong Wending and Xiao Shitou, who usually wear simple clothes, are wearing chivalrous uniforms specially customized by Jiang Wen.
Contrary to the common image of people in the world of short clothes and hats, the three apprentices, wearing leather wrist guards and narrow boots, looked a bit nondescript, but they looked neat and tidy and full of heroic spirit. This set of clothes has a tight waistband, narrow sleeves, and the silk material that can be seen at a glance not only has the style of a warrior, but also has the aura of a noble family - these are all elements Jiang Wen absorbed from later generations of Peking Opera costumes. Just to look different.
A man relies on his clothes and a horse relies on his saddle. The Luo family has worked so hard to maintain their dignity. Naturally, Jiang Wen will not come unprepared.
The good reputation that has been publicized for a long time in the early stage, coupled with the unique imposing appearance now, is to ensure that this Wuyi sect, which is appearing in a grand event for the first time, can undoubtedly steal the limelight for these three disciples. Pave the way.
But how to get the limelight is a profound knowledge in itself. In Jiang Wen's eyes, this is not much different from walking on the red carpet.
As today's carpet stars who aspire to become famous, if Jiang Wen and the others arrived at the venue early, the publicity effect would not be much better - martial arts people had never heard of the "Wuyi Sect", and they would definitely be regarded as a third-rate gang and simply ignored.
There is only one chance to appear in this way, and it must be grasped well. Otherwise, the Wuyi sect with a small number of people and a weak power is more likely to be reduced to a background, and in the later stage, it can only mix in the crowd and applaud.
Therefore, if Jiang Wen and the others want to stand out, they must arrive at a time that is late enough but not rude. By that time, more people will come, and old friends will also come to the venue. Only then can we make good use of the martial arts people we met some time ago to become famous in an instant.
At this time, people in the Luo Mansion were coming and going, and the roll-callers had changed three times, and their throats were almost smoking. There was still an endless stream of guests coming and going. Every time a heavyweight guest arrived, it would cause a sensation.
The opportunity lies in waiting. After waiting and hesitating for a while at the door of the restaurant, Jiang Wen finally heard a familiar name.
"Report! Gang Leader Fan of the Xinghan Gang and four of his disciples came to congratulate you!"
I saw Fan Xinghan, with messy beard and hair, holding his hands in front of everyone. He looked very majestic and strong, and quickly led four disciples of the same stature across the threshold.
The Xinghan Beggar Clan is very famous in Hubei, and the then leader Fan Xinghan is also one of the best in the world. Even though there is no second in martial arts in the world, not everyone may admire his martial arts and character, but just because the leader himself came all the way. Because of his love, the martial arts people had to secretly marvel.
In the arena, there is inevitably a place where the left foot is the right foot. The bigger the guests are, the greater the kindness they represent. The greater the kindness shown, the greater the hero's performance that day. Therefore, the Luo Mansion No matter how hard it is for the disciples to do the roll call, they still have to shout at the top of their lungs to spread the momentum of today's host.
"Report! The old hero of Tiedan Village brings his thirty-two disciples to congratulate him!"
As a tall and majestic old man opened the way, there was another low cry from the martial arts people in the venue.
Tietan Mansion is well-known as a knife factory in the northwest, and its owner Zhou Zhongying is an old veteran who has been in the world for a long time. In his early years, he was invincible in sword and stick skills. When he got older, he practiced iron galls with outstanding results. He can be said to be a man in the martial arts world. A household name.
More importantly, things are rare and valuable. What does it mean for Zhou Zhongying, who is in the northwest, to come in person? This means that since Lao Huihui Ma Shouying died of illness, this powerful martial arts figure who even the Qing court respected in the northwest really wanted to come and celebrate the grand event together.
"Report! Leader Yang of the Qingqi Gang has come to congratulate you with thirty-six of his disciples!"
The crowd in the Luo Mansion began to whisper, but there was no exclamation for a long time. It was obviously because the Qingqi Gang was not as powerful as the previous two sects, and there was even some unspeakable conflict.
Compared with the previous two factions, the Qingqi Gang has only been around for more than ten years. It relies on the convenience of inland water transportation to recruit disciples. In a short period of time, its influence has spread along the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers, and its scenery is unparalleled. Unfortunately, its foundation is not strong, and There are always some unethical actions, which are not very popular nowadays.
After all, those who dare to speak up and follow the rules and regulations are those who are mature and gain the upper hand. These sects with long history are faced with such fierce rising stars, even if they are in a world that claims to be pushed forward by successive generations. , it is inevitable to look down upon and reject them.
Therefore, this martial arts event is also a great opportunity for the Qingqi Gang to further integrate into the martial arts world, and they are determined to win today's limelight.
As the roll call fell, a flag shadow of more than ten feet suddenly appeared in the pouring rain. The long and narrow green flag fluttered in the strong wind, standing in the hazy mid-air, and from time to time it made the sound of brass bells. .
It is said that such a high flag is very easy to catch wind and sink even more when it is wet. It usually takes four or five men to hold the rope and pull it from all four directions to stabilize it. What's more, it is windy and rainy today, and it should be even more heavy. Difficult.
But at this time, this amazing flag was carried steadily by the arms of a strong man like an iron tower, and it came steadily in the rain. The thirty-six members of the Qingqi Gang were all shirtless, with dark skin and piercing eyes. They already took the terrifying wind and rain in the world outside the house as if they were nothing, which was amazing.
"What a grandeur! What a great face!"
Jiang Wen hid aside and took a breath of air-conditioning. As expected, there were a lot of talents in the world, and they could actually come up with such a shocking way to appear, which not only showed off their strength but also gave them appearance, and it was grand and grand.
"Master, I can try too."
Xiao Shitou watched intently as the dark, strong man like an iron tower passed by - based on his consistent rough aesthetics, Xiao Shitou obviously showed a rare interest in this kind of naked power.
"What are you trying to do? Be a little whirlwind moving bricks?"
Jiang Wen pretended to sneer, but in fact he was filled with regret - if he had known earlier, he would have ordered an iron rhinoceros and brought it to his door as a gift today.
Regarding the Qingqi Gang, Jiang Wen actually entrusted a beggar from the Guandi Society to inquire about the gang leader. When he found out about the iron tower-like gang leader in front of him, he was nicknamed "Iron Tower" by the nickname of "Iron Tower". A standard person lived up to his nickname.
Jiang Wen has always believed that there are only wrong names and no wrong nicknames in the world. The Qingqi Gang emerged in the early days. It was said that it was just a group of trackers from the Three Gorges to Hubei Province more than ten years ago. The gang's name is the so-called Qingqi. It refers to the flag used to direct the boat when sailing on dangerous shoals. The old leader of the Qingqi Gang has long since retired. Two months ago, he officially passed the throne to the tough guy in front of him. This time, he has the idea of gaining fame and power without being angry, and his approach is indeed different.
Many martial arts took turns to appear, and soon there were heavyweight guests.
"Report! Head Bai of the Songyang Sect, along with thirty-nine of his disciples, congratulates!"
Before anyone arrived, there were already shouts of greetings in the Luo Mansion. It was obvious that the Songyang Sect was more popular than before.
Unfortunately, with Zhuyu from the Qingqi Gang in front, such a response obviously cannot stir up much trouble. Seeing that the limelight is not enough, everyone will be lost.
Jiang Wen couldn't help but hesitate. Even Xiao Shitou had learned how to be brave and regretful. If he kept waiting like this, if the people waiting didn't come on time, he would not be able to defeat the Qingqi Gang in the end, and if the limelight he had planned for a long time was not guaranteed, he would lose it. .
Just as he was hesitating, a wave of uncontrollable low shouts suddenly sounded in the Luo Mansion, and everyone seemed to be frightened by something unexpected.
Jiang Wenxun looked around and saw a majestic old man with gray hair walking proudly among the disciples of the Songyang Sect. A string of beads around his neck jingled as he walked, and his breast patch resembled an embroidered Biao pattern. , one can immediately deduce that he is a sixth-grade military attache.
You must know that among the local officials set up by the Qing court, prefects are generally fifth-rank officials, and Taoist officials in various places are fourth-rank officials. Even if sixth-rank military attachés like this are not high, they are still very important figures in the local area.
"Isn't this Head Bai? Why did he suddenly get an official position?!"
Such questions rang in the minds of countless people, and came out from countless people's mouths at the same time.
Jiang Wen frowned and looked at Hong Wending before confirming the other person's identity.
"They are the Lan Ling guards of the sixth rank of the Qing Dynasty. They hunted down my father and me."
"Well, it's the same as Mr. Lu who besieged the Ma family. It's really amazing that the Songyang sect has such connections..."
There were more than 1,000 guards in the Qing Dynasty palace. These guards had different levels and positions. The most common ones were the blue feather guards. There were more than 900 guards at this level. They were responsible for guarding the outermost parts of the palace. They could not enter. Inner Palace.
However, don't underestimate the lowest rank of blue feather guards. These are all sixth-grade officials, one level higher than the local magistrate. Once the Qing court sends them to a local area, it often represents the direct arrival of imperial power, which is of great significance.
It is true that people in the world are disobedient and rebellious, but when everyone looks at the eyes of the old leader Bai of the Songyang Sect, they cannot ignore a trace of envy. Obviously, his official status will not bury his name in the world. , most of the time it can even add a bit of color.
Jiang Wen didn't think that the Luo Family Association didn't care about the government. Otherwise, why would they send the invitation to Wu Liuqi, the leader of the Guandi Association and the chief seal officer?
"Wen Ding, please remember that your name is Hong Wei today." Jiang Wen quickly ordered.
"I understand, Master."
Hong Wending understood Jiang Wen's meaning without saying anything, and answered without hesitation while standing in the corridor.
Jiang Wen was not sure at first, nor did he specifically ask Hong Xiguan why he named his son this name. After all, "Wen Ding" was an elegant name for engagement in ancient times. Could it be that the cold and cold Hong Daxia actually wanted his son to get married and have children as soon as possible. Marriage maniac?
But Jiang Wen later chatted with Yuan Huazi and found out that the allusion that "wending" equals "engagement" comes from the "Book of Songs Daya" in which King Wen of Zhou received auspicious omens, and after accepting the engagement, he personally welcomed his concubine to the shore of the Wei River. Only then can there be a record in the poem "Wen Ding Jue Xiang, personally welcoming Wei".
What is interesting is the name of this elegant poem in the Book of Songs, called "Da Ming".
Bai Zhen, the old leader of the Songyang Sect, walked through the door and gained countless envy and jealousy. He also took away the obvious limelight on the field at this time. I am afraid that no matter how hard the people behind him try, they may not be able to succeed. Overwhelms the real quality status.
But soon, Jiang Wen discovered that he was wrong, and very wrong. There are many wonders in the world, and there are always people who can find new ways to break into new worlds.
"Report! Chen, the head of the Guangdong branch of the Fuwei Escort Agency, and eighteen of the agency's elite officers are here to congratulate you!"
Fuwei Escort Agency!
These four words seemed to have some magic power, firmly locking the voices of the martial arts people inside and outside the Luo Mansion. Apart from the sound of rain day and night, and the steps of lions fighting for hydrangeas, the scene fell into an incomprehensible silence. , the faces of the organizers of the Luo family were as black as the bottom of a pot.
Let's put it this way, the dark sky with heavy rain now can be considered sunny compared with their faces.
"Good guy... black and red are also red..."
Jiang Wen suppressed his laughter and whispered, almost standing up to applaud Fuwei Escort Agency.
The disputes between Jianghu and Jianghu are nothing more than fame and fortune, and Fuwei Escort Agency has no doubt that they have them all. Originally, opening escort bureaus in various places to make money has offended local martial arts people to some extent, and the "General Leader of the South Green Forest" plaque awarded by Shunzhi's royal pen has violated the taboos of the northern and southern martial arts. Now it is said that he is the public enemy of the martial arts. Not excessive.
Jiang Wen could also see that compared with Lin Zhennan, the general leader of the parallel imports and the three-legged cat master, whether it was comparing the level of friendship, reputation, martial arts background, or today's celebration of the world, he represented his master in the world. With his illustrious status, Luo Yuan, a general in Guangzhou, should have this plaque.
The sectarianism in Lingnan Wulin is not too strong now, and martial arts exchanges are also common. Luo Yuantong has always accepted disciples, regardless of sects, and has cultivated various martial arts schools. There is no sect dispute yet. However, family matters are inevitable. The Luo family disciples are already essentially one body, and many things must be viewed according to the rules of the world.
Therefore, Luo Yuantong, who was a lone thief in his early years, was bound to win the honor in the green forest. Moreover, even if he had a broad mind and didn't care, the disciples in the mansion might not be indifferent at this time.
The powerful Wang Weiyang of Heluo was obviously not fooled by this trick and kicked the ball to his eldest apprentice. He must have realized that the court wanted to use such a vicious trick to separate the martial arts people and deceive his subordinates. Dog——has such a vicious mind, Shunzhi can be said to have taken great pains.
The people from the Fuwei Escort Agency were also helpless. Now everyone knew that he was a subordinate of the Jingnan Prince's Palace, and they were naturally at odds with the Pingnan Prince of Guangzhou. In such an occasion, they would easily be outraged if they came, and if they didn't come, they would be stabbed in the back. , in the dilemma, I can only bite the bullet and come here. At the worst, I can find a corner to sit down later and not interact with others.
After a while of commotion, several small sects appeared on the stage to congratulate. However, with the excitement just now, all the ways of fame and fortune have been taken away. Even the black and red roads have been taken away by the Fuwei Escort Agency. As the saying goes There are fifty days and forty-nine extensions of the great road. It is so difficult to see the one that escapes. How can ordinary people find a way to surprise them?
But at this moment, Jiang Wen watched several figures appear at the corner of the street, and finally said to his disciples with a smile on his face.
"Disciples, it's time for our Wuyi faction to take action!"
Fu Ningdie was watching the excitement, but before she understood what Jiang Wen was talking about, she was pulled out by him, and they walked towards Luo Mansion together.
…………
The disciple of the Luo family, who had finished the roll call till he was hoarse and almost breathless, had just leaned against the wall and finally rested for a moment. He suddenly looked up and saw a group of people walking towards him, and his eyesight went dark.
However, this group of people ignored him in a rare move, and just passed by him politely. During this period, they raised their hands to show the gilded invitation, and then walked straight to the Luo Mansion.
"Hey, hero, please stay, I haven't yet..."
The disciples of the Luo family were just about to catch up, but the martial arts people waiting in the Luo Mansion had already heard some strange noises. They looked at each other with doubts in their eyes and couldn't help but whisper.
"Brother, have you heard the sound of silk and bamboo?"
"Oh, did you hear it too? I seem to have heard the sound of the suona. Could it be that the house has invited a theater troupe?"
"How can this make sense? This is not a temple fair."
"Junior brother is also saying... Hurry, look!"
The martial arts people in the Luo Mansion gathered together. At this time, a kind of emotion was contagious like a virus. They reminded each other to look at the door of the mansion and pricked up their ears in unison.
I could only hear the sound of an impassioned piece of music getting closer and closer. The melody was weird and fast but full of sonorous energy. Hearing it made people feel broad-minded and passionate. They wanted to immediately pull out their swords and scream toward the sky to relieve the overwhelming pride in their hearts.
In the midst of such a generous song, a high-spirited Taoist was walking into the lobby with three young disciples.
The neat and elegant costumes of the apprentices made people look at them, and what was even more amazing was that behind these four people, there was actually a group of more than ten troupe musicians who were working hard to beat, play, play and sing. Give them a soundtrack.
"Jiang Wen, the head of the Wuyi Sect, came with three of his disciples to congratulate him!"
