That morning, Wu Tong rode out of Guangzhou City, heading toward Mount Baiyun. His purpose was to visit his master, the White Cloud Immortal, and to seek guidance on several martial questions that had been troubling him.
By midday, the sun blazed overhead. Feeling weary, Wu Tong decided to rest at a small roadside pavilion. Set amid open fields, the pavilion was plain yet tranquil—a welcome shelter for travelers.
As he approached, he saw a middle-aged man already inside, drinking alone. The man was tall and lean, with a straight nose, upright features, and a dignified air that marked him as no follower of the demonic path. He wore a fitted warrior's robe, his build well-proportioned, a short black beard at his chin lending him an imposing look.
Wu Tong stepped into the pavilion and greeted him politely."Brother, might I rest here for a while?"
The man looked up, his tone calm but edged with warning."Rest if you wish. But when those fearsome ruffians arrive, you may find you can't leave so easily."
Wu Tong, ever quick to involve himself in matters of injustice, felt his blood stir. He smiled broadly."A hero such as you deserves a proper drink. I happen to have brought two flasks of wine. Let's share them, one apiece."
From his saddlebag he brought out the flasks along with some dried beef. At once, the fragrance of the wine filled the air. The man's eyes widened."Is that Shaoxing Zhuangyuan Hong?"
Wu Tong was surprised at his knowledge and laughed."Indeed it is. Today I meet a true hero—how could I serve anything lesser?"
Most folk could only afford coarse spirits, so the man was clearly moved."Brother, fate has been kind to us! My name is Lü Qiang. And you?"
Wu Tong's heart gave a jolt. Lü Qiang—the very man known across the martial world as Fearless Under Heaven! He cupped his hands respectfully."An honor to meet you at last. I am Wu Tong."
Pleased by the youth's frankness, Lü Qiang set another cup before him. Wu Tong poured for both and raised his glass."Please!"
Lü Qiang's voice rang with warmth."A warm heart and the spirit of chivalry—young brother, this meeting is worth a lifetime! Come, let us taste this fine Shaoxing together!"
They drank. The wine slid down smooth and mellow, warming the body from within. Lü Qiang's brows lifted in surprise."This must be over ten years aged!"
Wu Tong smiled."A family treasure. I thought it too fine to leave at home, so I brought two flasks. And now, by fate, I share them with a hero. Beauty pairs with rouge, fine wine with the worthy. Allow me to toast you again."
They drank once more."A pity we have no dishes to match it," Wu Tong said. "Still, this dried beef will do."
As they chewed, Wu Tong asked,"Earlier you spoke of ruffians—what's the story?"
Lü Qiang set down his cup, his tone turning grim."A few days ago, I crossed paths with the Second and Third Ghosts of Lingnan as they robbed a caravan. I intervened and spoiled their fun. They were not pleased and, with their elder brother, challenged me here today."
Even as he spoke, the sharp whistle of air split the silence—three figures glided into view: the Lingnan Three Ghosts.
The eldest sneered."So, Fearless Lü Qiang brought help?"
Lü Qiang chuckled calmly."To deal with you three, I have some confidence. Weapons or bare hands—you choose. But steel has no eyes. Think well."
The Ghosts conferred in low voices before the Second Ghost said,"Bare hands, then."
Lü Qiang lifted his cup and called out deliberately,"You hear that, young brother? Bare hands it is. Then I'll let you warm up with them while I finish my drink."
Wu Tong's respect for Lü Qiang grew."These three are mere petty ghosts. Allow me to meet them first."
Lü Qiang nodded and turned back to the Ghosts."You heard him. My young brother will try you first."
The Ghosts, already irritated, now felt outright insulted. The Third Ghost snarled,"Lü Qiang, you go too far! Let me teach this brat a lesson!"
"You won't last thirty moves," Lü Qiang said with an amused snort.
The Third Ghost charged. Wu Tong stepped lightly aside, vanishing from the line of attack, and countered with a palm strike to the chest. The Ghost staggered back, pain flashing in his eyes.
The other two Ghosts roared and attacked together. Wu Tong moved like the wind, his footwork shifting with flawless timing, fists and feet flowing as though in a deadly dance. Every move was precise, forcing the Ghosts to defend without respite.
From the pavilion, Lü Qiang drank leisurely, watching with approval."Fine skill, young brother! Come, drink!"
Wu Tong laughed, evaded another strike, and vaulted back into the pavilion to clink cups with Lü Qiang.
The Lingnan Three Ghosts were livid, but there was nothing they could do. The youth before them was no ordinary fighter, and they now knew that today's battle would not end in their favor.