Chapter 7: The Escape Plan

Du Yu and Tian Boguang found themselves in a dire situation and needed to devise an escape plan. Tian Boguang sighed bitterly and remarked, "I don't know how you manage to jinx everything, but you sure have a knack for it."

Du Yu glanced at Yilin, the beautiful nun, who looked back at him with gratitude in her eyes. Sensing an opportunity, Du Yu spoke up, "Speaking of little master Yilin..."

Tian Boguang's expression changed rapidly as he considered Yilin's beauty. He pondered, "Although I swore not to touch Yilin, I never said I would let her go. Having such a beautiful woman by my side would be quite delightful."

Du Yu smiled and nodded, realizing that as long as Yilin remained unharmed, he could spend more time with her and potentially complete his second mission.

Suddenly, a message echoed in Du Yu's mind, "Number 197621, Yilin, a disciple of the Hengshan School and one of the heroines in this plot, expresses her gratitude for your efforts in preserving her innocence. Her favorability towards you has increased by 20 points and is now at 0."

Du Yu was ecstatic to see the increase in favorability but puzzled as to why it remained at 0. He recalled that [Wolf Gu Xuankuang] reduces the favorability of righteous individuals by 20 points, leaving someone furious.

Feeling disheartened, Du Yu realized he couldn't afford to upset anyone, or else he would face dire consequences. However, Yilin had taken a step forward, and her gaze no longer held fear and hostility but a sense of pitiful indifference.

Du Yu asked Tian Boguang, "Where should we go now?"

Tian Boguang proudly replied, "Since you won our bet, and I can't touch Yilin, I might as well take you to the Qunyu Courtyard outside Hengshan City. It is said to be full of beautiful women. We can have some fun there. What do you think?"

Du Yu's mind raced as he returned to the main plotline. He nodded in agreement.

As they journeyed, Tian Boguang continued to provide guidance to Du Yu on practicing Wanli Duxinggong. Du Yu recognized that if he couldn't make Tian Boguang happy during their drinking sessions, his plan to learn martial arts on his own would be in vain. He must find a way to ensure Tian Boguang's satisfaction.

Under Tian Boguang's disguise, Yilin remained silent and followed along, unable to call for help due to the acupuncture points tapped by Tian Boguang. She walked like a lamb being led to slaughter, her sad and resentful face filled Du Yu with pity and compassion.

Whether it was to win Yilin's favor or out of genuine compassion, Du Yu was determined to rescue her from Tian Boguang's clutches. However, he needed to work with Tian Boguang and couldn't confront him alone. He had to devise a foolproof plan. Du Yu's eyes darted around, searching for a solution.

Tian Boguang led them to a restaurant and loudly called for wine. Du Yu seized the opportunity and thought that if he could get Tian Boguang drunk, at least Yilin wouldn't be defiled that day.

Thus, they engaged in a drinking competition. Tian Boguang, known for his heroic nature and alcohol tolerance, was a formidable opponent. Du Yu pushed himself to the limit, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't outdrink Tian Boguang, a master with abundant internal energy.

After three rounds of drinking, Du Yu was on the verge of collapse, while Tian Boguang remained in high spirits, teasing Yilin relentlessly. Yilin blushed and could only close her eyes and recite sutras silently. Fortunately, being in a public restaurant prevented Tian Boguang from acting recklessly.

Du Yu had to change his approach. He raised his glass and said, "Brother Tian, have you ever heard the saying that nuns bring bad luck? It is believed that whenever someone encounters a nun, they will lose when gambling. If you don't gamble, the same applies to stealing precious items like jade and incense. And what if you desire this little nun Yilin but end up suffering from bad luck because of it? Wherever you go, honorable people like Yue Buqun will hunt you down and seek your life. Even with your incredible martial skills, walking alone for thousands of miles, you can't guarantee your safety, can you?"

Tian Boguang hesitated for a moment, recognizing the saying. He knew that often being associated with trouble might bring about unfortunate outcomes. Although he had managed to survive until now, luck played a significant role in his escapes from pursuers of the righteous martial arts.

Was it worth enduring this bad luck for the sake of Yilin?

Yet, when he looked at Yilin's beautiful face, he couldn't resist the temptation. His desire for her was akin to a mouse eyeing a piece of fat cheese. He laughed dryly and said, "Brother, I never believed in such superstitions! Even if there is some truth to it, I'm willing to face the consequences for spending the night with this beautiful little nun!"

Du Yu noticed the hesitation in Tian Boguang's eyes and secretly smiled. He had successfully planted doubts in Tian Boguang's mind. "Brother Tian, don't doubt me. If you hold onto Yilin and refuse to let her go, I have a feeling that something unfortunate will happen to you."

Suddenly, anger flashed across Tian Boguang's face, and he slammed the table, exclaiming, "What are you trying to say? Don't think I can't see through your schemes! You're eyeing Yilin for yourself, but I won't allow it!"

Du Yu's expression changed, realizing that Tian Boguang was genuinely unwilling to release Yilin. He wondered how he could rescue her.

With a cunning look in his eyes, Du Yu smiled and replied, "Brother Tian, you don't have to be suspicious. Although Yilin is a beautiful nun, I can't shake off the feeling that she brings misfortune. If you don't believe me, let's make a bet. Today, I predict that you will undoubtedly encounter trouble, and some righteous martial artists will come looking for it."

A venomous glint appeared in Tian Boguang's eyes. "Brother, we roam the martial arts world, and we shouldn't speak ill or curse others lightly. Even if I encounter some trouble today, it won't be because of Yilin. Do you think I can't see through your intentions?"

Du Yu realized he had touched a sensitive nerve, as Tian Boguang despised being called unlucky. However, he couldn't back down at this crucial moment. If he did, not only would he fail to save Yilin, but he would also greatly offend Tian Boguang, rendering his previous efforts futile.

After contemplating for a moment, Du Yu nodded vigorously. "Brother Tian, I truly believe that Yilin is an unlucky omen. Let's make a bet. If I'm wrong, I'm willing to cut off a finger as an apology to you. How about it?"

Tian Boguang and Yilin's expressions changed simultaneously.

Tian Bog

uang's face darkened, and he sneered, "Fine! Since you insist on pushing this, I'll play along. If I encounter trouble today because of Yilin, I'll let her go. But if I don't, you'll have to promise me something."

Du Yu hesitated for a moment, but realizing this was his only chance, he agreed, "Alright, I accept your conditions. If you encounter trouble because of Yilin, you'll release her immediately. If not, I will fulfill your request."

With the bet established, Tian Boguang's expression relaxed, and he motioned for Du Yu to continue.

Du Yu took a deep breath, knowing that he had to make this bet worthwhile. He needed to create an opportunity to rescue Yilin. He carefully chose his words, saying, "Brother Tian, I've heard rumors of a hidden treasure that lies deep within Hengshan. It is said to be guarded by powerful martial artists and contains unimaginable wealth. If you were to release Yilin and let her go, I would be willing to lead you to the exact location of this treasure."

Tian Boguang's eyes widened, greed evident in his gaze. The allure of unimaginable wealth was difficult for him to resist. He contemplated Du Yu's offer and finally said, "Fine! If I encounter trouble today because of Yilin, I will release her immediately. And if you lead me to this hidden treasure, I promise to let you and Yilin go free."

Du Yu felt a wave of relief, knowing that he had successfully manipulated Tian Boguang's desires. He hoped that their plan would unfold smoothly and that they would have the opportunity to escape their predicament.

As the day progressed, Tian Boguang led them towards the Qunyu Courtyard with a self-satisfied grin on his face. He entered the establishment confidently, with Du Yu and Yilin in tow. The sight of Tian Boguang, a wealthy customer, caused the old bustard, Mr. Gui, to fawn over him. Several beautiful courtesans were brought in, and Tian Boguang indulged in their company, leaving Du Yu and Yilin alone in a room.

Du Yu felt uncomfortable with the situation, as he was not accustomed to such an environment. He quickly attended to Yilin's safety, ensuring she was settled before turning his attention to his training.

Du Yu focused on practicing the "Walking Alone for Thousands of Miles" technique. While his natural aptitude was poor, he dedicated himself to the task, practicing diligently for ten days. His efforts paid off when he saw that his "Walking Alone" skill had upgraded to level 1.

Delighted, Du Yu opened his attribute panel and noticed a blue box symbolizing a passive skill in the skill column: "[Walking Alone]: Lightness skill, a passive skill unique to Tian Boguang. The skill is rated D-level. This lightness skill can be upgraded up to level 7, passively increasing agility by 1 point and movement speed by 2 points."

Du Yu's agility attribute had increased from 4 to 5 points. Combining the inherent increase in movement speed from agility and the additional 2 points from the [Walking Alone] skill, his overall movement speed had improved by 4 points.

As Du Yu moved and ran, he felt a newfound lightness in his body, as if a gust of wind propelled him forward. This marked the first martial arts skill he had mastered, filling him with excitement and anticipation.

However, his joy quickly turned to sorrow as he realized the challenges that lay ahead. It had taken him ten days of practice just to reach the first level. How could he possibly master the second and third levels within the remaining three days before the obliteration deadline?

Du Yu understood that the further he progressed in his training, the more difficult it would become. He pondered his predicament, knowing he had to find a solution.

But misfortune continued to pile on. After fulfilling his promise to Du Yu, Tian Boguang heaved a sigh and declared, "Alright! I have fulfilled my promise, and now you can continue training on your own. To be honest, I have grown tired of teaching you. If you can't fulfill the contract, well, you're just a fool."

Du Yu's heart sank as he grappled with the realization that he was left with no guidance and no way to learn the remaining two skill points.

He turned his gaze toward Tian Boguang, desperately hoping to find a solution. However, Tian Boguang seemed adamant and unwilling to assist him any further. It appeared that the 20 favorability points gained through [Wolf Gu Xi Kuang] had been exhausted by Du Yu's remarkable talent. He needed to come up with an alternative plan.

Du Yu's mind raced, contemplating his options. Suddenly, a cunning idea sprouted in his mind, and he swiftly grasped Tian Boguang's Achilles' heel—lust.

After all, Du Yu was an internet writer, and his imagination was filled with a wealth of vivid stories and characters. He had a penchant for the exotic and the classics, such as Jin Ping Mei and Dengcao Monk, and his memory allowed him to recite them fluently.

Clearing his throat, Du Yu addressed Tian Boguang, "Brother Tian, Zuo Jin is available to everyone now. How about I tell you a few stories?"

Tian Boguang, being a rough man with limited knowledge of literary classics, initially showed little interest. But when Du Yu began recounting the intriguing tales, starting with a segment from Jin Ping Mei, Tian Boguang's eyes sparkled with anticipation. His mouth watered, and his focused expression resembled that of a monk listening to Shakyamuni's Sanskrit teachings—fully engrossed in the narrative.

Yilin blushed upon hearing Du Yu's words. As a nun, she knew it was improper to indulge in such stories. Nevertheless, she couldn't help but cast a hard glance at Du Yu, closing her beautiful eyes and beginning to recite the Great Compassion Mantra.

Du Yu was well aware of the delicate balance he needed to maintain. When approaching critical points in the story, he would cease speaking, chuckling, and retreating. This left Tian Boguang frustrated, as if he were being teased, his heart itching with restlessness.

Du Yu continued to unveil new and enticing stories, one after another, weaving vivid descriptions of the shy, noble, demure, and seductive qualities of beautiful women. Just as the climax approached, he would abruptly cut the tale short, leaving Tian Boguang seething with impatience, almost wanting to force him to continue with a blade at hand.

Meanwhile, Yilin's face reddened further as she listened. She, being a nun, felt a sense of guilt in indulging in such eloquent words. However, Du Yu, like an internet writer blessed with Shan Tianfang's storytelling skills, could deliver captivating narratives in a tactful and subtle manner. Yilin found herself unable to resist the allure of the intriguing stories, her ears perked up despite her closed eyes.

Eventually, Tian Boguang couldn't bear it any longer and exclaimed, "Brother, just tell me what you want!"

Du Yu smiled wryly and replied, "I don't ask much of you, brother. Could you teach me the second level of [Walking Alone]? With a little more skill, I can at

 least protect myself."

Tian Boguang also saw the logic in Du Yu's request. Although his apprentice was foolish, he couldn't deny the fact that additional skill would be beneficial. However, he was cautious and reluctant to agree. It seemed that the 20 favorability points granted by [Wolf Gu Xi Kuang] had been entirely depleted by Du Yu's extraordinary talent. He needed to find another way.