My gorgeous wife Chapter 2051 - 2019: Memories Like the Wind
Previously on My gorgeous wife...
Luu Chen walked with Li Chen through the bustling marketplace.
Naturally, as the Market Master, Luu Chen kept his true identity hidden; a public appearance would unquestionably cause a significant stir.
Currently, Luu Chen is regarded as a legendary figure; his emergence would likely incite another major gathering.
As they strolled, Li Chen couldn't help but remark with a smile, "It appears your Zizhao Market City has also adapted to the times. Many things here weren't present before."
"It's all due to Lord Zizhao's remembrance of his roots and his continuous support for us," Luu Chen replied with a dry laugh. Indeed, Zizhao Market City had seen substantial growth in both its merchandise and its territory over time.
Zizhao's standing is certainly no longer what it was. After departing Zizhao Market City, he fully integrated into the Palace of the Nether King, now known as the Nether King Group, where he holds a distinguished position.
As a senior member of the Nether King Group, Zizhao himself is a formidable Earth-level Expert. With a mere word from him now, the entire Martial Artist World could tremble.
However, due to Zizhao's recent breakthrough in his cultivation, he has maintained a low profile for an extended period, dedicating himself to closed-door cultivation as an elder.
At their level of attainment, very little remained for them to strive for.
Fame? They were already globally renowned. In terms of benefits, whether as top-tier powerhouses or as senior figures within the Nether King Group, they possessed virtually everything. Thus, the only pursuit left was likely further advancement in their cultivation, following the footsteps of those stronger beings who had already ascended, venturing into the realm of truly powerful individuals.
"After being away for so many years, this world has indeed undergone considerable change," Li Chen reflected aloud.
"Following the world's transformation, the spiritual Qi became denser and more conducive to cultivation; martial artists no longer need to remain secluded in remote mountains and ancient forests as they once did. Throughout these years, the number of martial artists has surged significantly, and several exceptionally talented individuals have emerged," Luu Chen elaborated.
"Gifted individuals?" Li Chen inquired, a smile playing on his lips, choosing not to delve deeper into the subject.
Sensing Li Chen's disinterest in continuing the discussion, Luu Chen ceased speaking and quietly walked beside him.
Even as the esteemed Market Master of Zizhao Market City and a well-known figure in the Martial Artist World, the opportunity to accompany this gentleman was considered a profound honor by many.
Now, even after many years, Li Chen's renown had not waned; instead, it shone as brightly as the midday sun.
If Li Chen was once an indelible legend in the eyes of the populace, he had now become a genuine myth in the perception of countless martial artists.
In contrast to the current environment, Li Chen's journey began in a period of spiritual depletion prior to the world's great transformation. He gradually ascended, step by step, reaching the pinnacle of martial arts, and was recognized as the first to achieve ascension in countless years.
While rumors spoke of many powerful figures ascending before Li Chen, none were ever definitively confirmed.
Li Chen, however, was different; he ascended before the eyes of numerous witnesses, establishing himself as the first verifiable transcendent.
"Sir, we are approaching the edge of the marketplace," Luu Chen cautioned as Li Chen neared the boundary of the Fangshi Barrier and prepared to proceed further.
"I am aware," Li Chen replied casually, "I merely intend to explore briefly and settle a few minor personal matters."
Upon hearing Li Chen's words, Luu Chen dared not interject further, silently trailing behind him.
Before long, accompanied by Luu Chen, Li Chen exited the marketplace's confines.
Suddenly, Li Chen pointed towards a particular spot, remarking, "Do you recall when I first arrived at your marketplace, you and Liang Qi intercepted me right here?"
Hearing Li Chen's words, Luu Chen's expression instantly shifted to one of awkwardness. "Back then, we were unaware..."
"It's nothing, just a minor recollection; I'm merely reminiscing. The past is long gone," Li Chen said with a dismissive wave of his hand and a smile.
Luu Chen nodded, his gaze distant and thoughtful.
Years ago, Li Chen was merely a junior martial artist who had just attained the Profound Level. When he fled Zizhao Market City in dire straits, they had both intercepted him just outside its borders. Yet, even then, Li Chen had overcome their combined assault. It was only due to Zizhao's timely intervention that their lives were spared; otherwise, Li Chen would have undoubtedly slain them then and there.
Reflecting on it now, the memory felt like it belonged to a different lifetime.
At that moment, Luu Chen deeply admired Zizhao's foresight from that time. Despite being an adversary of Li Chen, Zizhao had swiftly altered his stance and firmly aligned himself with Li Chen.
Initially, they had failed to comprehend Zizhao's strategy and had even voiced several objections, but Zizhao ultimately overruled their dissent.
Yet, the subsequent chain of events led them to deeply admire Zizhao’s profound wisdom.
No one could have ever predicted the extraordinary heights Li Chen would later attain.
At this precise moment, Li Chen’s eyes suddenly gleamed with recognition: "They have arrived."
"Arrived?" Luu Chen exclaimed in surprise. His expression swiftly darkened as he grasped the imminent danger Li Chen’s words implied.
A group of figures emerged from the dense forest, rapidly making their way towards Li Chen.
"Little brat, we finally found you," a man clad in a sharp suit emerged, a peculiar smirk gracing his lips as he addressed Li Chen. "I must admit, you’re quite adept at evasion. To think you’d flee to such a remote mountain range!"
"The individual accompanying him appears different this time," a keen observer noted, realizing Li Chen was no longer with Old Chen, and couldn't help but point it out.
"Isn’t a change for the better? While we hesitate to cross the Nether King Group lightly, if it’s anyone else… Who remains that we, Fang Yuan, cannot afford to offend?" the suited man retorted with a sneer. "If you possess the foresight to act wisely, that would be ideal. If not, well, this desolate wilderness won't mind claiming a few more lives."
Upon hearing the suited man's arrogant words, Luu Chen's expression undeniably turned grim.
For years, while managing Zizhao Market City, he had commanded respect and demanded deference, irrespective of the setting or the individuals involved.
It was the very first time in all those years that someone dared to address him with such blatant disrespect!
However, seeing Li Chen remain silent at this juncture, Luu Chen restrained himself from speaking, merely casting a concerned glance towards Li Chen.
Yet, at this very moment, the corners of Li Chen’s lips curved into a uniquely enigmatic smile.