Cao Yunpiao, who is this person? He is the top detective from the New Ming Dynasty five hundred years ago, known for solving any case, whether it's the theft of imperial treasures or the pilfering of a woman's waist pouch. Once a case is in his hands, as long as there is a trace, it is sure to be solved in a short time. Recently, his story has been adapted into a TV series, with the current popular actor Cai Bin playing the lead role, achieving unprecedented viewership. Cai Bin's charming appearance and vivid portrayal of Cao Yunpiao's charismatic and romantic character have made him a favorite among young girls and women.

The person in front of Xiao Zihan bears at least seven resemblances to Cai Bin. Bright eyes, thick eyebrows, and a cascade of flowing hair make him equally attractive to women. However, this guy seems to have a loose screw in his brain or has watched too many martial arts movies, as his words are quite strange and hard to agree with.

At this moment, Wu Xiaofeng and his companions arrive at Xiao Zihan's side, curious about what happened. Wu Xiaofeng, being cautious, senses that there must be a reason for the commotion. He quietly asks Xiao Zihan, "Brother Xiao, what's going on?" Meanwhile, he discreetly observes the "mysterious expert" standing next to Xiao Zihan. The invincible flying kicks from this "mysterious expert" didn't escape Wu Xiaofeng's scrutiny.

The other four are about to ask loudly, but seeing Wu Xiaofeng's caution, they wisely keep silent.

Xiao Zihan doesn't answer Wu Xiaofeng directly but instructs him to help lift Yan Tiannong and Duan Jiaojiao. As there are already onlookers, and some are approaching, it's essential to avoid a complete encirclement. Xiao Zihan is relieved that nobody has come searching for the wallet yet; otherwise, he would be in trouble. His immediate concern is dealing with the peculiar "mysterious expert" in front of him, who seems formidable and righteous.

Yan Tiannong and Duan Jiaojiao, being supported by Wu Xiaofeng and Yu Zeming, wear dejected expressions, realizing their misfortune. Yan Tiannong is a skilled thief, but his lack of courage prevents him from engaging in major thefts. He often endures mockery from Duan Jiaojiao for not living up to the legacy of the 138th generation of the "Thieves' Sect." Little did he expect that their target, Hu Weimin, would turn out to be the parents sought desperately by Yan Mei. Finding them was truly a case of "seeking something far and wide, only to find it easily when least expected."

Xiao Zihan knows he has to safely deliver the two to Yan Mei; otherwise, the mischievous Yan Mei might come up with unexpected pranks. Thinking about it, Xiao Zihan shivers; he should quickly deal with the "mysterious expert" before him.

"May I ask for your honorable surname, brother?" Xiao Zihan casually inquires.

"I am surnamed Lin, named Jianghu. I respectfully ask for Brother's guidance," Lin Jianghu replies with a clasped fist, adopting the customary language of the martial world. Although he looks like a wanderer, it's unfortunate that these are not the times for wandering martial artists. Uttering such words nowadays would either brand someone as mentally ill or as a martial arts fanatic. Xiao Zihan can't help but find amusement in the fact that this person claims to be "Lin Jianghu," especially considering the era.

Quickly adjusting his tone, Xiao Zihan courteously responds, "No need for guidance. I am Xiao Zihan. It's a pleasure to meet Lin Xiong today." Unconsciously, Xiao Zihan also adopts an ancient style in his speech.

Lin Jianghu's face showed a surprised expression, and he exclaimed, "Oh, so it's Brother Xiao. I've long heard of your name. Today, meeting you is truly a great fortune, a great fortune indeed." After speaking, he again bowed with hands clasped, lowered his eyes, as if he genuinely recognized Xiao Zihan's name. The whole act was reminiscent of encounters between ancient characters in television dramas, quite amusing. Especially his exaggerated surprise seemed comical.

Xiao Zihan encountered such a person for the first time and felt the urge to mock him for acting like an ancient figure. However, people around him burst into laughter, not giving Lin Jianghu much face.

Perplexed, Lin Jianghu asked, "Brother Xiao, why is your friend laughing? Did I say something inappropriate?"

Suppressing his laughter, Xiao Zihan replied, "Brother, I have a question. If it's offensive, please forgive me. Lin Xiong, your way of speaking sounds like reciting ancient texts."

Upon hearing this, Lin Jianghu's serious expression instantly vanished. He scratched his head awkwardly and said, "Hehe, to be honest, I also feel different from you guys. But my father taught my sister and me this way since childhood. He has always been fond of martial arts and often considers himself a martial artist. He instructed us to follow the etiquette of martial artists when meeting strangers, saying that only by speaking this way can we earn respect from others. It's my first time traveling far from home, not familiar with the norms. If I made Brother Xiao laugh, I will correct myself."

Finished speaking, he smiled shyly, his face expressing a hint of embarrassment.

Xiao Zihan thought to himself that with Lin Jianghu's way of speaking, it's no wonder people would laugh. However, considering that this might be a habit instilled by his father since childhood, Xiao Zihan couldn't help but sympathize with him.

Glancing at Lin Jianghu again, Xiao Zihan noticed that the serious and proud expression had completely disappeared, revealing a somewhat naive young man. He thought that perhaps this was Lin Jianghu's true nature. However, the guy did have some acting skills, managing to surprise Xiao Zihan repeatedly. Nevertheless, at this moment, Xiao Zihan felt greatly relieved as he realized that dealing with Lin Jianghu might not be as challenging as he initially thought.

Curious about Lin Jianghu's father, Xiao Zihan asked, "From what you said, Lin Uncle must have been practicing martial arts since childhood, for at least thirty years. Considering your impressive skills, isn't Lin Uncle even more formidable?"

Although Xiao Zihan's tone was inquisitive, it was evident that he was praising Lin Jianghu and his father. Almost everyone appreciates compliments, and Lin Jianghu, being a newcomer to the scene, couldn't escape the charm. Hearing Xiao Zihan respectfully calling his father "Uncle," and praising both him and his father, Lin Jianghu felt a closer connection with Xiao Zihan. He modestly said, "Brother Xiao, I won't mention my own mediocre skills. But indeed, my father is formidable. If Brother Xiao is also interested in martial arts, you can visit my father for a friendly exchange. He would be very pleased."

Xiao Zihan revealed a scholarly admiration and replied, "Certainly, certainly." Then, he took a few steps with Lin Jianghu, gestured, and pointed discreetly at Yan Tiannong and Duan Jiaojiao. Speaking in a low voice, he asked, "How did Lin Xiong know that these two are thieves?"

Without hesitation, Lin Jianghu said, "I clearly saw the man stealing your friend's wallet just now. They are not thieves; what else could they be?" Pausing, he added apologetically, "To be honest, although I saw someone stealing, I didn't dare to intervene because their stealing technique was too advanced. I was afraid I might not be able to handle them if I acted recklessly. My father often tells me that in this vast world, there are all kinds of extraordinary individuals engaged in open or hidden battles. Acting recklessly might end up with a severe beating. It's crucial to know oneself and the opponent before making a move. He said, 'Only by speaking this way can you gain respect from others.' I didn't want to be a fool, so I had to hide my skills. Later, when I saw them about to escape and Brother Xiao wanted to pursue, I took action. Unexpectedly, their skills were far inferior, and I was worried for nothing."

Xiao Zihan chuckled and said, "Lin Xiong, no need to feel embarrassed. What you did was not wrong. Their stealing techniques are indeed impressive, and I only happened to notice them stealing my friend's wallet. Such people need to be cautious of. By the way, Lin Xiong, do you know if they stole wallets from others?"

Lin Jianghu scratched his head and said, "I only saw them stealing from your friend, no one else."

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Xiao Zihan breathed a sigh of relief. If they had only stolen from one person, the situation would be easier to handle. Suddenly, Xiao Zihan's expression changed, and he exclaimed, "Oh no, I forgot about something. It's over, it's over. This is not good."

Seeing Xiao Zihan's sudden change from a cheerful conversation to looking like the sky was falling, Lin Jianghu became anxious and asked, "What's wrong, Brother Xiao? Did something major happen?"

Xiao Zihan, with a wry smile, said, "Lin little brother, you don't know. A few days ago, my fiancée Yan Mei told me that her parents were planning to come and test me, to see if I meet their standards as a son-in-law. Yan Mei said her parents would discreetly steal something around me, and if I could discover it in time, I would pass the test. But if I couldn't, I shouldn't think about marrying Yan Mei. The tricky part is that I've never met her parents before. They don't allow Yan Mei to take me to see them, and they won't even let me see their photos. Ah, considering my future father-in-law's skills in stealing, how could I possibly guard against him? I was worried about this, and unexpectedly, today..."

Lin Jianghu questioned, "Brother Xiao, are you saying that these two people are your future in-laws?"

Xiao Zihan nodded, "It seems so, it can't be wrong."

Lin Jianghu, puzzled, said, "Isn't this just perfect? Brother Xiao, you discovered them, and logically they shouldn't make things difficult for you."

Xiao Zihan, distressed, explained, "It should have been like that, but the mistake is that I haven't recognized them for such a long time. Obviously, I didn't show them enough respect. You don't know; according to Yan Mei, her parents have peculiar personalities, and they have been..." He paused, looking at Lin Jianghu.

Lin Jianghu, realizing the situation, hurriedly said, "I'm sorry, Brother Xiao. I didn't know they were your future in-laws; otherwise, I wouldn't have said anything..."

Xiao Zihan timely interrupted him, saying, "Lin little brother, how could this be your fault? It was an unintentional act on your part, and besides, you were just being brave. You don't need to blame yourself. The situation is not as bad as it seems. I will definitely persuade them." He patted Lin Jianghu's shoulder and walked towards Yan Tiannong and Duan Jiaojiao.

Lin Jianghu looked at Xiao Zihan gratefully and followed him.

Xiao Zihan walked confidently towards Yan Tiannong and Duan Jiaojiao, startling the two of them. The evidence of their crime was in Yan Tiannong's pocket, easily discoverable with a search. Once found, they would need to go to the police station to give statements, followed by the inevitable iron-clad doors, prison life, and more. The two dared not dwell on the thought. Without connections or protection, getting sentenced to three to five years was almost certain, especially during the year-end when the police were notoriously efficient in handling cases, be they big or small.

As Xiao Zihan approached them, Yan Tiannong almost pulled out the wallet, ready to confess. However, Xiao Zihan's expression suddenly changed, and he spoke to them with great respect, "Ah, in-laws, esteemed parents, Subei truly didn't know it was you two. Otherwise, I wouldn't have dared to act so audaciously. Uh, Xiaofeng, Zeming, quickly assist the elders."

Wu Xiaofeng and Yu Zeming were left dumbfounded. How did the two individuals, who were recently arguing about buying eggs, suddenly become Xiao Zihan's in-laws? Hearing Xiao Zihan's words, they tightened their grip on Yan Tiannong and Duan Jiaojiao's arms.

Hu Weimin and the other two were utterly clueless. Their mouths hung open, staring at Yan Tiannong and Duan Jiaojiao, unable to utter a word.

As for Yan Tiannong and Duan Jiaojiao, their eyes widened, resembling someone who had just witnessed an extraterrestrial visitor.

Xiao Zihan inwardly sighed, thinking, with your current appearance, who would believe you are my in-laws? "Hehe, I told my in-laws that there's no need to continue the act. Let me make amends for this." Saying that, he made a threatening gesture.

Unable to bear the confusion, Yu Zeming asked, "Xiao Ge, what's going on here?"

Hu Weimin joined in, "Yeah, Xiao comrade, you need to explain this to us."

Xiao Zihan, paying no attention to their questions, worried that Lin Jianghu might catch on, sternly addressed Yan Tiannong and Duan Jiaojiao, "If my in-laws still don't admit it, don't blame me, Subei, for not showing mercy. I'll send you two to where you belong."

Yan Tiannong, jolted into awareness, shook his head vigorously, waving his hands, "No, no, no." Then, he burst into laughter, patted Xiao Zihan's shoulder heavily, and said, "Son-in-law, since you've recognized us, we'll reluctantly pass you. Hehe, son-in-law, there's one thing I must clarify with you beforehand, or it would be damaging to my dignity."

Xiao Zihan, still nursing his sore shoulder, thought, your transformation is indeed swift, but it's just right for the occasion. Judging by the way Yan Tiannong patted him, it seemed there was still some strength left in this father-in-law, not entirely drained by those wolfish women and resentful ex-wives. Quite impressive.

Before Xiao Zihan could respond, Yan Tiannong continued with a hearty laugh, hands behind his back, exclaiming, "Since I, Yan Tiannong, have made a move, I won't let you discover it easily. If you can detect it, it means I only used one hand. Do you understand?"

Xiao Zihan was not a fool; of course, he understood the meaning. Oh, you only used one of your hands, obviously leaving a trump card. Xiao Zihan felt a mixture of amusement and frustration, finally understanding the true meaning of "give someone a little color, and they open a dyeing workshop."

At this moment, Duan Jiaojiao also realized that Xiao Zihan was intentionally defending them, even referring to him as the almost son-in-law of her abandoned daughter. Whether it was true or not, she decided to treat it as genuine. She chuckled and said, "Oh, Xiao Han, mom can testify that your dad is right. You don't know how amazing your dad's 'thieving' skills are. If it wasn't for your mom helping him build up a bit of wind, darn it, if your dad wants to steal something, he'll definitely 'steal it before the third watch, not leaving it till the fifth watch.' Darn it, that's how skilled he is."

Yu Zeming exclaimed, "Really that skilled?"

Yan Tiannong waved his hand casually, pretending to be profound, "Trifling skills, trifling skills. If this little friend wants to learn, I won't hesitate to impart my knowledge to you, especially since you're Xiao Zihan's friend. Hahaha."

Xiao Zihan, holding back his laughter, thought, Mei'er's parents turned out to be a pair of lively characters. Just a moment ago, they seemed terrified, and now they were acting like domineering wealthy landowners. Moreover, he noticed that Mei'er's mom seemed to particularly enjoy saying "darn it." He wondered what it would be like when she met Xia He and Hao after this. Imagining them both saying "darn it" non-stop, Xiao Zihan couldn't help but find it amusing.

At this point, Lin Jianghu approached, bowing respectfully to Yan Tiannong, "So, Uncle Yan is a master of the 'thieving' arts. My apologies for any unintentional offense earlier. Please forgive me, Senior."

Yan Tiannong, with an air of generosity, responded, "No need to apologize. Ignorance is forgivable. Besides, your nephew has demonstrated an exceptionally advanced leg technique. Although I deliberately let myself be kicked by your nephew, I've noticed that his leg technique is truly extraordinary, reaching the level of a top-notch master. Nephew, let me ask, which leg technique are you using? Perhaps I've heard of it, and if so, I can offer some guidance to elevate your skill."

Lin Jianghu joyfully replied, "That's fantastic! I use the Wind God Thirteen Legs, a technique created by my father. Uncle, have you heard of it?"

Yan Tiannong pondered for a moment, stroking his chin, "I've heard a little, but not very familiar with it. It's a pity, a pity."

The two of them carried on with their seemingly authentic conversation, leaving Yu Zeming, Hu Weimin, and others dumbfounded. Only Wu Xiaofeng was skeptical, questioning the authenticity of the conversation.

Xiao Zihan, understanding the potential truth in Lin Jianghu's words, found the situation amusing. However, he realized someone was nearby, seemingly searching for something. Alarmed, he didn't want them to discover Yan Tiannong and Duan Jiaojiao together. If they connected the missing wallet to them, it could lead to trouble.

Xiao Zihan quickly interrupted Yan Tiannong and Lin Jianghu's conversation, saying, "Father-in-law, Jianghu, you seem to be getting along well. How about we find a place to sit down and chat?"

Ignoring whether the two agreed or not, Xiao Zihan pushed them forward. He thought to himself, Lin Jianghu initially appeared like a hero, even delivering a flying kick to Mei'er's dad, Yan Tiannong. Little did he know that now they were conversing so amicably, with Yan Tiannong claiming to be a master of the "thieving" arts. Lin Jianghu's identity as a legitimate hero seemed doubtful. However, he couldn't help but notice that Mei'er's mom, Duan Jiaojiao, was quite fond of saying "darn it." He wondered what it would be like when she met Xia He and Hao. Imagining the two of them continuously saying "darn it," Xiao Zihan couldn't help but find it amusing.

Lin Jianghu had just left his home, and in terms of social experience and interpersonal skills, he was still quite inexperienced. Like a blank canvas, whoever made the first stroke might influence him. Therefore, Xiao Zihan definitely wanted to seize this opportunity and recruit this talented individual for his own use. Lin Jianghu did appear quite green, marveling at the antique decorations in the tea house named "Clear Elegance Tea Pavilion" as he followed Xiao Zihan inside.

Once they entered a tea room guided by a tea art attendant in a light blue cheongsam, they gladly took their seats. Upon sitting down, a refreshing tea fragrance filled the air, complemented by the quaint and elegant surroundings. The four characters on the east wall of the tea room, "Savoring Life's Essence," conveyed a certain artistic conception when sipping tea, akin to savoring the essence of life, leaving a lingering aftertaste.

Two types of teacups were placed on the tea table, antique blue-and-white porcelain small cups and exquisitely colored small lidded bowls. Xiao Zihan picked up a porcelain cup, carefully examining it, while keeping a keen eye on Yan Tiannong and Lin Jianghu, who were engaged in conversation. A faint smile played on his lips. If he couldn't capture Lin Jianghu's heart alone, adding another person might just do the trick.

At this moment, Yan Tiannong and Lin Jianghu were having a lively discussion about Lin Jianghu's father. It was evident that Lin Jianghu greatly admired his father, extolling numerous virtues such as unparalleled martial arts, extraordinary combat skills, a generous and open-minded personality, carefree nature, and hospitality. Yan Tiannong continuously spoke about how he and Lin Jianghu's father shared similar character traits, indirectly boasting about himself. As they were engrossed in their conversation, Lin Jianghu suddenly sighed deeply, saying, "My father has had a successful and content life. With exceptional martial skills, he roams the mountains and forests proudly. He married my mother, a beauty admired by all, and later, with the birth of my sister and me, it was like adding the final touch to a beautiful painting. Recently, however, my father often laments, saying, 'Training fists without cultivating inner strength leads to emptiness in old age.' At that time, I didn't understand what he meant. Later, my father told me that there is a form of inner strength, and if one can cultivate it, it results in a qualitative leap in one's cultivation. Although I still don't know what this inner strength is, if there's a method to cultivate it, I can undoubtedly provide my father with a perfect life. I wonder, Uncle Yan, do you happen to know how to obtain a method for cultivating inner strength?"

Yan Tiannong, who had no idea, didn't want to spoil the image he had just built up. He furrowed his brow and replied, "I do have a friend who knows a bit about it, but unfortunately, we lost contact recently. But don't worry, Lin Xiaotian, I'll take care of this matter for you."

Lin Jianghu was overjoyed, saying, "Thank you, Uncle Yan." After that, they continued their conversation on other topics.

Hearing their conversation, Xiao Zihan couldn't help but almost burst into laughter. Sometimes, a person's luck was truly unpredictable. If luck was on their side, everything went smoothly. Conversely, if luck was against them, everything seemed to go against their wishes. Xiao Zihan was currently experiencing a stroke of good luck, as Lin Jianghu was destined to become a key force in his future dominance of the underworld.