Wuxia: Become the 100-Victory Sword King at the Beginning

Chapter 237. Gugra's affection for Shi Feiyang, a life-or-death test under the masked man's night raid.
Upon hearing Shi Feiyang accept the challenge, the wrestler's eyes widened, burning with fierce fighting spirit, and he roared. The roar was like a thunderclap, exploding directly inside the tent, making everyone's eardrums buzz, and the entire tent trembled slightly at the sound of the roar.

His figure moved instantly, like a tiger that had been gathering its strength for a long time and suddenly descended the mountain. His whole body exuded an unstoppable and overwhelming momentum, and with an indomitable determination, he pounced swiftly towards Shi Feiyang.

His movements were as fast as lightning, creating a strong gust of wind. The wind was as powerful as a raging typhoon, causing the cups and saucers on the table to shake violently. Wine splashed out like beads from a broken string, spilling onto the soft wool felt and leaving water stains.

Gugra's heart leaped into his throat, his expression tense like a bowstring stretched to its limit, ready to snap at any moment.

Her eyes were fixed on Shi Feiyang, filled with worry and concern. Nothing in the world could attract her attention. At this moment, she only had eyes for Shi Feiyang and only his safety in her heart.

She was terrified that Shi Feiyang might be hurt in the slightest, so she unconsciously covered her mouth with her hands, her breathing became rapid and disordered, her chest heaved violently, and she silently prayed that Shi Feiyang would be safe and sound.

In her heart, Shi Feiyang was no longer just a hero, but someone she admired and cared about deeply.

Shi Feiyang saw the wrestler rushing towards him like a raging bull with overwhelming ferocity, yet he remained calm and composed, like the majestic Mount Tai that stands between heaven and earth, having withstood the test of time.

Even if mountains crumble and the earth splits before your eyes, you can remain as steady as a rock, your face unchanged and your heart pounding.

He remained calm and composed, unhurriedly displaying his unparalleled and astonishing "hidden identity and name" lightness skill.

In an instant, his figure transformed, becoming like the softest willow catkins dancing in the spring breeze, so light as to be almost ethereal, fleeting and elusive, impossible to catch. Or like a wisp of smoke rising in the morning light, drifting freely and indistinctly in the air, instantly merging with the heavens and earth, formless and traceless.

The wrestler only felt a sudden flash of light before his eyes, and Shi Feiyang, who was originally so close and within reach, vanished as if he had evaporated into thin air.

His all-out lunge was like a mud ox entering the sea; he missed completely. The immense momentum propelled him forward, causing him to stumble and nearly fall to the ground in a disheveled state.

Upon witnessing this scene, Gugla's eyes instantly shone like stars, and his previously anxious heart eased slightly.

She immediately clapped her hands excitedly, her hands moving quickly and loudly, and shouted excitedly, "Well done, Master Shi!"

Her voice was clear and loud, like a nightingale singing in a valley, instantly attracting countless strange glances from inside the tent.

Guglati's pretty face instantly flushed red, just like the sunset glow on the horizon, beautiful and captivating.

She lowered her head shyly, her hands unconsciously reaching out to stroke her long, flowing hair, trying to let the strands cover her face, which was as red as a ripe apple.

Before the wrestler could regain his footing, Shi Feiyang had already unleashed the incredibly powerful "Five Thunder Transformation Hand" from the "Sacred Heart Technique," a martial art specifically designed to neutralize an opponent's power. With a seemingly effortless wave of his hand, he actually contained a world-destroying, immense force.

In an instant, an invisible force, like the most violent thunder in the height of summer, surged forth. Wherever this force went, the air seemed to resonate with faint, muffled, yet majestic thunderous sounds, like a roar from ancient times.

The wrestler felt an overwhelming, irresistible force crash down upon him like a surging tide, leaving him no time to react. He felt his internal energy dissipate rapidly like a burst dam, and his body, like a kite with a broken string, was thrown uncontrollably backward. He traced a long arc through the air, like a falling meteor, before crashing heavily to the ground with a dull thud, raising a cloud of dust that filled the tent, adding to the tense and mysterious atmosphere.

At that moment, the wrestler felt completely drained, all his strength drained from his body, and he collapsed to the ground, his eyes filled with terror and disbelief.

Seeing their companion defeated, the other wrestlers' competitive spirit was instantly ignited and burned fiercely.

They were all burly and strong, with bulging muscles, like fortresses forged of steel. They were menacing, like a pack of hungry tigers descending from the mountain, baring their teeth and claws, ready to devour Shi Feiyang alive.

Gugla's heart leaped into his throat again, as if a boulder could fall at any moment.

Fine beads of sweat appeared on her forehead, like dew rolling on a lotus leaf in the early morning.

Her hands gripped the hem of her dress tightly, her knuckles white from the force, as if she wanted to crush it. She prayed silently in her heart: "Hero Shi, please be safe and sound. You are my hero, you must be alright!"

Amidst the ferocious, surging horde of wrestlers, Shi Feiyang employed the profound and subtle lightness skill of "Concealing One's Form and Name," his movements as agile as a fish darting through turbulent, turbulent waters, skillfully dodging wave after wave of attacks as fierce as a storm. He unleashed the exquisite and breathtaking martial arts technique "Five Thunder Transformation Hand," each strike carrying unparalleled power, a force like a surging, turbulent sea capable of crushing anything in its path.

However, he controlled this power perfectly, like a spring breeze caressing willows—gentle yet powerful, subduing his opponents without harming their lives. For a moment, figures flickered and danced within the tent, like countless phantoms in motion.

The roars of the wrestlers, the whistling wind created by Shi Feiyang's moves, and the tense, rapid breathing of the crowd intertwined, like a breathtaking and thrilling symphony, playing the strongest note of this fierce battle.

Gugra's gaze remained fixed on Shi Feiyang's figure, never leaving him for a moment. Her heart rose and fell with every move he made, her eyes filled with tension and anticipation. Her whole world was tied to Shi Feiyang.

Suddenly, Shi Feiyang turned around, and in an instant, the surrounding air seemed to be stirred by his turn, forming a strong airflow.

He was like a whirlwind, appearing and disappearing without a trace, moving so fast that it was impossible to catch a glimpse of his figure. In the eyes of the crowd, his figure seemed to be copied countless times, turning into afterimages, layer upon layer, dazzling the eyes, as if he had transcended the constraints of time and space, wandering outside the mortal world.

Shi Feiyang moved his hands rapidly, his palms like two petals dancing gracefully in the wind, seemingly gentle and beautiful, drifting leisurely in the wind with a unique elegance.

However, beneath this gentleness lurked a deadly threat. With each sweep of his palm, an invisible ripple seemed to spread through the air, like the ripples on a calm lake after a boulder is thrown in, spreading outwards from Shi Feiyang as the center.

These ripples, though seemingly gentle, contain astonishing power; wherever they go, the air vibrates and emits a soft "humming" sound.

As Shi Feiyang moved his palms, the power of the "Five Thunder Transformation Hand" was fully displayed.

That earth-shattering, boundless power, like a surging tide, flowed continuously from his palm.

Each strike was accompanied by a deep rumble, like muffled thunder from the sky.

Immediately afterwards, a burly wrestler, who had stood firm like a towering mountain, was suddenly pushed down as if by an invisible giant hand from the deepest hell.

The wrestler felt an irresistible, powerful force instantly coursing through his body. His internal strength dissipated rapidly like a flood bursting its banks, and all his energy was instantly drained.

His body fell backward uncontrollably, crashing heavily to the ground with a thud, raising a cloud of dust.

The scene was as swift and decisive as autumn leaves being swept away; a dozen wrestlers fell to the ground one after another, like logs toppled by a gale. They were all limp and powerless, like puddles of mud.

His once strong limbs now hung limply, completely powerless.

They were panting heavily, their chests heaving, their breathing as labored as a broken bellows struggling to operate. Their eyes were filled with shock and admiration as they looked at Shi Feiyang as if he were a war god who had descended from the heavens to save all living beings.

In their hearts, Shi Feiyang's image has already stood tall, becoming an invincible legend.

Upon seeing this, the tribespeople were stunned at first, their faces showing disbelief.

Their eyes widened, their mouths slightly agape, as they witnessed the most unbelievable thing in the world. After a brief moment of astonishment, thunderous applause erupted. The crowd clapped vigorously, their palms turning red, like ripe tomatoes.

Cheers rose and fell, one after another, like surging waves echoing through the camp.

Gugra stood in the crowd, her eyes fixed on Shi Feiyang, never leaving him for a moment.

At this moment, Shi Feiyang was the center of her entire world, and everything around her had become blurred. Two blushes rose on her cheeks from excitement, just like the dazzling, colorful sunset on the horizon, bright and beautiful.

His breathing became rapid, and his chest rose and fell slightly, like a frightened fawn fleeing in panic.

Her lips parted slightly, and she murmured softly, "Master Shi, you're amazing..."

Amidst the thunderous applause, her clear voice stood out, filled with deep admiration for Shi Feiyang, an admiration as boundless as a surging river.

Her eyes were filled with infatuation and adoration; Shi Feiyang was the sun in her life, illuminating her entire world.

Dang Xin, who originally had a somewhat cold demeanor and an expression as unfathomable as a cold pool, suddenly changed his expression.

A complex and almost imperceptible look flashed in his eyes. In that look, there was both amazement at Shi Feiyang's powerful martial arts, as if he had witnessed a world-shaking spectacle; and worry that the situation was gradually getting out of control, as if a huge whirlpool was hidden beneath the calm surface of a lake, which could at any moment stir up a storm and sweep everything into an endless abyss.

Shi Feiyang's eyes were as sharp as a hawk's, and he accurately noticed Dang Xin's subtle change in expression, yet he still maintained a smile.

That smile was like the warm spring sun, gentle and comforting, making people feel as if they were bathed in a spring breeze.

He stood tall and imposing, exuding the air of a king reigning over the world. Stepping forward, he cupped his hands in greeting to Dang Xin and said, “Chief, please forgive me. My purpose in sparring with you brothers today is truly to foster friendship through martial arts. The martial arts world is vast and profound, with each school possessing its own strengths. Mutual exchange and learning are essential for broadening our understanding, a true testament to the martial arts community. I have absolutely no intention of offending your tribe; my aim is simply to discuss martial arts and enhance our friendship. Why not do such a wonderful thing?”

Upon hearing this, Dang Xin was secretly startled, but quickly concealed the fleeting strange expression and replaced it with a warm, fiery smile. She said, "Great hero, your skills are unparalleled. We are utterly impressed to witness them today. It is a great honor for our department to witness your superb martial arts. Your demonstration has been like a wake-up call, giving us a completely new understanding of the way of martial arts. We have truly benefited immensely."

Shi Feiyang nodded, straightened his back, his posture as upright as a pine tree, exuding an innate aura of righteousness, and said loudly, "Since its inception, the Xiong Ying Society has made a grand vow to roam the martial world, taking it upon ourselves to uphold justice and protect the peace of the people. Seeing your tribe facing numerous difficulties, I feel deeply concerned. If the leader does not mind, I am willing to do everything in my power to help the tribe overcome these troubles. The martial world today is turbulent, rife with conflict, like a scattered pile of sand, with the people suffering immensely. We, as members of the martial world, bear a heart of chivalry and must step forward to protect our homeland and restore peace to the world. This is the responsibility of the Xiong Ying Society, and the common pursuit of every conscientious and responsible member of the martial world."

Upon hearing this, everyone nodded in approval, their eyes filled with respect and admiration for Shi Feiyang. The light shining in their eyes was like the brightest star in the night sky, a testament to their reverence for justice and chivalry, and a heartfelt admiration for Shi Feiyang's noble character.

As Gu Ge La gazed at Shi Fei Yang's tall and imposing figure, her admiration grew stronger, like vines sprouting vigorously in spring, wildly twining around her heart, impossible to shake off. She thought to herself: How many men in this world possess such a heart for the world and such superb martial arts? Master Shi is truly a dragon among men, so dashing and heroic, captivating all who behold him. To meet such a hero in this vast martial world is truly Gu Ge La's good fortune.

Dang Xin smiled broadly, his smile carrying a hint of respect, as if he held deep reverence for Shi Feiyang. He raised his hand in a gesture of invitation and said to Shi Feiyang, Xie Wen, Shi Xiong, and Shan Zhi, "Great Hero Shi and distinguished guests, please follow me to the castle to rest. You must be exhausted from your journey. Although our camp is located in a remote area, we will make sure you feel at home."

Following Dang Xin's footsteps, the group headed towards the castle.

This capital castle of the Lindan tribe, though far less magnificent than the bustling cities of the Central Plains, possesses a unique and simple charm, like a pearl lost on the grassland.

The castle is built of earthen ramparts or rough stone walls, and the marks of time are clearly visible on the walls.

Those mottled marks are like the eyes of history, silently telling stories of the past. Each mark bears witness to the rise and fall of the tribe. The houses inside the castle are mostly low and scattered in a well-organized manner, giving people a simple and peaceful feeling.

The entire castle has a small population of just over ten thousand people, and walking on the streets, you can clearly feel the rich atmosphere of grassland life.

The distant calls of cattle and sheep rose and fell, weaving together a unique symphony of the grasslands, telling people of the land's vitality and life. However, no one could have imagined that within this seemingly unremarkable little castle, Dang Xin had meticulously deployed 30,000 elite troops.

These elite soldiers usually remain hidden throughout the city, like cheetahs lurking in the shadows, silent yet always vigilant. In the event of war, they can quickly assemble, like a sharp blade, unleashing formidable combat power to protect the tribe's peace and uphold its dignity.

After navigating the narrow streets, the group arrived at the magnificent little palace. This palace, a stark contrast to the simplicity of the castle, shone like a dazzling pearl on this unpretentious land. Built entirely in the style of the Central Plains, with its flying eaves, intricate carvings, and painted beams, it exuded exquisite luxury.

The stone lions in front of the palace gates stand majestically, baring their teeth and brandishing their claws, guarding the peace of this palace.

Its imposing aura inspired awe, and no one with ill intentions dared to approach it.

The palace was exquisitely decorated, from the magnificent silk curtains to the fine porcelain ornaments, all of which reflected the noble status of its owner.

Every decoration exudes refinement and luxury, showcasing the tribe's splendor and glory.

Gugra had already returned to the small palace ahead of time, her heart pounding like a caged rabbit, as if it were about to leap out of her throat.

At this moment, she found herself in the magnificent garden of the small palace, filled with flowers unique to the grasslands: fiery reds, passionate and unrestrained; gentle pinks, soft and graceful; and pure whites, pristine and flawless. They vied for attention, adorning the entire garden with vibrant colors, like a magnificent painting. Gugra moved with light, graceful steps, her figure swaying like a willow branch in the spring breeze, moving gracefully through this sea of ​​flowers.

Her lively eyes, like fluttering butterflies, eagerly darted and lingered among the colorful flowers.

The garden was full of beautiful flowers, but she seemed to be under a spell, until her gaze finally settled like a magnet on a cluster of delicate, vibrant blossoms. The flowers were like exquisite jade carefully sculpted by the heavens, their petals still adorned with morning dew, shimmering brilliantly in the gentle sunlight, so beautiful that once her eyes were drawn to them, she could never look away.

Gugra extended her slender, delicate fingers, her movements as gentle as if afraid of disturbing a sleeping spirit, and carefully plucked the bouquet. She held it gently in both hands, as if she were holding not just a bouquet of flowers, but the most precious treasure in the world, carrying her heart full of joy and anticipation.

She stood frozen in place, her feet seemingly rooted to the spot, yet occasionally shifting slightly, like a warrior about to go to battle, both resolute and tinged with unease. Her gaze frequently drifted towards the palace gates, her eyes filled with fervent anticipation, as if Shi Feiyang would appear before her at any moment, just as she had dreamt, bringing sunshine and hope to illuminate her entire world.

Finally, Shi Feiyang's tall and straight figure appeared at the palace gate.

The moment Gugra saw him, her cheeks flushed crimson, like a flame ignited in the sky, as radiant and beautiful as the sunset's glow. She was as shy as a startled fawn, yet the straightforwardness of a nomadic being drove her forward.

With light, graceful steps, she stepped forward and offered the flower to Shi Feiyang. Her voice was as gentle as a breeze rippling across a lake: "Master Shi, this is a flower I picked especially for you. I hope you will like it. I took a liking to it at first sight, just as I took a liking to you at first sight."

As she spoke, she lowered her head slightly, her long, butterfly-like eyelashes trembling gently, as if telling of her inner turmoil and shyness. She dared not look directly into Shi Feiyang's eyes. But she couldn't help but secretly raise her eyelids, glancing at Shi Feiyang's reaction out of the corner of her eye. Her toes unconsciously tapped lightly on the ground, and her whole being exuded a shy and lovely aura, just like a flower blooming in spring, making her all the more endearing.

Then, as if summoning all her courage, her chest heaving slightly, her voice soft yet carrying the boldness of a grassland dweller, she asked softly, "Master Shi, have you ever seen a woman like me in the Central Plains? I am who I am, and I speak my love boldly without hiding it. I like you, I liked you from the moment you stepped into my tribe, can you feel my feelings?"

As soon as she spoke, she stared intently at Shi Feiyang, her heart pounding like a little rabbit in her chest, eagerly awaiting his answer.

Shi Feiyang paused slightly, his gaze falling on Gugra's eyes, which were as clear as autumn water. His expression softened, and he accepted the bouquet with both hands, saying, "Miss Gugra, although the Central Plains are prosperous, and the women there are either gentle and virtuous or heroic and spirited, none can compare to you, with your unique straightforwardness and passion of the grasslands. This bouquet is beautiful, just like your pure heart. However, I, Shi, bear heavy responsibilities in the martial world and wander the world, and dare not easily speak of romantic love. But I will always remember your kindness."

After saying this, Shi Feiyang bowed slightly to express his gratitude, his eyes showing a hint of apology, yet also revealing his respect for Gugra.

Gugra was overjoyed, lost in her own world. Due to the differences between Central Plains culture and grassland culture, she did not understand the deeper meaning in Shi Feiyang's words. To her, every word Shi Feiyang spoke was a compliment, which made her heart bloom like flowers in spring. Her love for Shi Feiyang grew stronger and stronger, like a rushing river, flowing endlessly.

Upon learning that Shi Feiyang was very interested in grassland culture, Gugela was as excited as a joyful little bird that had broken free from its cage and regained its freedom.

In the spacious and bright hall of the small palace, colorful silks hung all around, exquisite carpets were laid on the floor, and the walls were decorated with various ornaments with grassland characteristics. Under the soft light, the entire hall exuded a charming and unique atmosphere.

Gugra wore a dazzling traditional costume, which was like a meticulously crafted work of art, embroidered with exquisite patterns, including galloping horses, soaring eagles, and flocks of white sheep, each pattern lifelike.

Under the gentle touch of the light, the silk threads on the garments shimmered with a captivating light, perfectly complementing Gugra's graceful figure.

Suddenly, cheerful and lively grassland music began to play.

The music seemed to come from the depths of the grassland, carrying endless vitality, and Gugra danced lightly.

Her figure was graceful and elegant, like a willow branch swaying in the wind, both soft and resilient. Her dance steps were lively and agile, sometimes spinning like a swift whirlwind, her skirt fluttering like a blooming flower, delicate and beautiful, exuding a captivating fragrance; sometimes leaping like a nimble deer running freely on a vast grassland, full of vibrant life and boundless energy.

Throughout the performance, her gaze, like a magnet, frequently turned to Shi Feiyang, her eyes filled with enthusiasm and anticipation. Her gaze seemed to be saying affectionately: "Master Shi, I wish to incorporate the passion and beauty of this grassland into this dance. I hope you will like my dance and understand my heartfelt sentiments."

After the dance ended, Gugra, like a bird returning to its nest, lightly ran to Shi Feiyang. Her cheeks were flushed from the dance, like a ripe apple, radiating an alluring glow.

She was slightly out of breath, her chest rising and falling gently, and asked eagerly, "Master Shi, how did I dance? Did you enjoy this grassland dance?"

Her eyes were filled with a longing for recognition, like bright and fiery stars twinkling in the night sky, eagerly awaiting Shi Feiyang's answer.

Shi Feiyang's gaze softened, like the warm spring sun, as he looked at Gugela and slowly said, "Gugela, this dance is like the soul of the grassland, agile and unrestrained. Every step is in step with the rhythm of heaven and earth, and every turn reveals the power of nature. This dance is not only a movement of the body, but also the love of the grassland children for life and their yearning for freedom. In this world of many disturbances, it is rare to see such pure beauty. You express your feelings through dance, and I, Shi, am fortunate to witness it. It is truly a great blessing in my life."

Shi Feiyang bowed slightly, his expression solemn, and continued, “Everything in the world has its unique beauty. This dance of the grasslands reminds me of those unsung yet brilliant acts of chivalry in the martial world. They may not be noticed by the public, but like this dance, they have a heart-stirring power. Your dance, young lady, is like a beacon in the darkness, illuminating my yearning for the beauty of the world.”

As Gugra listened to Shi Feiyang's words, tears welled up in her eyes, and her heart was filled with emotion and joy. She had never imagined that Shi Feiyang could understand her dance and her feelings so deeply.

Night fell silently and gently enveloped the entire courtyard of the small palace, like a huge black silk ribbon.

The moonlight, clear and cool, filtered through the gaps in the leaves, casting dappled shadows and adding a touch of mystery and tranquility to the courtyard. Gugra, dressed in a plain robe, appeared even more graceful and alluring in the moonlight.

She arranged to meet Shi Feiyang here. At this moment, she took a deep breath, the breath seemingly carrying her heart full of trepidation and anticipation. Then, she mustered her courage, took light steps, and slowly walked to Shi Feiyang.

Her gaze was firm and ardent, like the brightest star in the night sky, fixed on Shi Feiyang. Her voice trembled slightly but was full of deep affection as she said, "Great Hero Shi, from the moment you stepped into my tribe, my heart was like a calm lake tossed with a boulder, never to find peace again. Your bravery and fearlessness, your graceful demeanor in every gesture, have filled me with admiration. On this vast grassland, through the years, no man has ever been able to so easily stir my heartstrings and make me so moved as you have."

She bit her lip slightly, turning her luscious lips a little white, and her eyes glistened with tears that shone like dazzling gems in the moonlight.

She paused, then continued, "I know the path of the martial world is fraught with danger, like a dense thicket of thorns. You bear the heavy responsibility of the Xiong Ying Society and have a mission you must uphold. But my mind is made up; I am willing to venture into the martial world with you. Even if the road ahead is full of thorns and dangers, I will never back down. I am willing to stay by your side, face the storms with you, and share the bloodshed and turmoil of the martial world."

Having said that, she anxiously awaited Shi Feiyang's response, her hands gripping the hem of her dress tightly until her knuckles turned slightly white. Her heart pounded wildly with trepidation, and the whole world seemed to stand still, waiting for Shi Feiyang's words to break the suffocating silence. Upon hearing this, Shi Feiyang's expression softened instantly, yet it also carried a hint of helplessness and bitterness.

He sighed softly, a sigh that seemed to carry endless vicissitudes and感慨 (gǎnkǎi, deep feelings), and looked at Gugra with sincere yet slightly apologetic eyes, saying softly, "Miss Gugra, I am deeply honored by your profound affection. However, as the Grand Master of the Xiong Ying Society, I am navigating the turbulent and unpredictable world of martial arts, a raging torrent that never ceases. The road ahead is long and fraught with unknown dangers; life and death often hang in the balance, unpredictable. How could I, for my own selfish reasons, abandon such a beautiful flower as you, Miss Gugra?" "Your flower has been swept away by the cruel and ruthless world of martial arts. Young lady, on this grassland, you have a loving family who offer you endless warmth and care. Here, you find everything familiar, a peaceful and stable life. You should blossom with your own happiness on this vast grassland, instead of following me, a wanderer of the martial world, enduring countless hardships. I sincerely hope that you can find someone who truly loves you, someone who can accompany you through life's ups and downs, hand in hand, year after year, sharing the simple joys and happiness of life on this grassland."

As he spoke, he gently shook his head, his eyes filled with apology and reluctance. His hands unconsciously clenched into fists, as if suppressing the surging waves within him. This time, Gugla heard the resoluteness and helplessness in Shi Feiyang's words, and his heart sank inwardly.

Her eyes dimmed instantly, as if the stars had lost their light, and her once beautiful face was tinged with loneliness.

Just then, Dangxin's son, Lilak, with a lithe figure like a galloping horse on the grassland, stepped forward with lightning speed.

He bowed respectfully to Shi Feiyang, his movements precise and courteous, and said in a clear voice, "Master Shi, you must be tired from your journey. My father has arranged an inn for you and your party. Please come and rest there."

Shi Feiyang nodded slightly, clasped his hands in a fist salute to Gugra, and said, "Miss Gugra, farewell. I hope you take care." After saying that, he followed Lilac's footsteps and slowly left, leaving Gugra standing alone in the courtyard. Under the moonlight, her figure appeared particularly lonely and desolate.

Night fell like a huge, thick black silk, silently enveloping the entire castle without anyone noticing.

Shi Feiyang, Xie Wen, Shi Xiong, and Shan Zhi checked into the "Mingjin" inn in the castle. Although this inn could not compare to the luxury of the high-end inns in the Central Plains, which exuded an air of wealth, it was extremely clean and tidy, giving people a simple and warm feeling.

Inside the guest room, the candlelight flickered, casting long, dim shadows that illuminated the four figures, adding a touch of mystery to the tranquil night. The castle at night resembled a sleeping behemoth, utterly silent.

However, a series of light yet hurried footsteps abruptly shattered the tranquility of the inn. Gugra, dressed in a moon-colored robe of soft fabric, moved gently with her steps, like flowing moonlight. A belt inlaid with dazzling gemstones cinched her waist, shimmering enchantingly in the dim light, further accentuating her graceful figure, making her appear like a fairy descended from heaven.

She led a group of maids, each with a beautiful face and a dignified expression.

Each person carried a bottle of the grassland's unique liquor and a fragrant, mouthwatering mutton, and walked lightly into the inn.

Gugra's eyes shone brightly, like the brightest star in the night sky. The moment he saw Shi Feiyang, his gaze was drawn to him like a magnet, unable to look away even a fraction.

She moved gracefully to Shi Feiyang, her face beaming with a sweet smile like the warm spring sun, and said, "Great Hero Shi, your unparalleled skill in today's battle has left us in awe. We, Guglat, have come to offer our greetings, and hope that you will not find us presumptuous."

After saying that, she personally poured Shi Feiyang a full glass of wine, her movements gentle and elegant, as if she were performing a solemn ceremony.

Gugla seemed to be making trouble out of nothing, but in reality, he was filled with a surging admiration for Shi Feiyang.

She kept talking to Shi Feiyang, from the local customs and culture of the grasslands, the galloping horses on the vast grasslands and the melodious songs of the shepherdesses, to the prosperous scene of the Central Plains, the bustling streets and the magnificent buildings, her words were full of curiosity and longing.

During the drinking session, Gugra displayed an astonishing capacity for alcohol. She drank one glass after another, her face remaining rosy, like a ripe apple, and her eyes bright, like twinkling stars.

In contrast, Shan Zhi and Shi Xiong were quickly intoxicated by Gu Ge La's massive amount of alcohol in no time.

Shan Zhi's cheeks were flushed red, like burning flames, his eyes were glazed, and his speech was becoming slurred, as if his tongue was tied in knots; Shi Xiong, on the other hand, was lying on the table, fast asleep, snoring loudly.

Xie Wen, fully aware of his duty, remained sober and did not touch a drop of alcohol. His eyes scanned his surroundings warily, sharp as a hawk's, constantly watching out for Shi Feiyang and not missing a single subtle movement.

Shi Feiyang's alcohol tolerance was far inferior to Gu Gela's. After a few drinks, his face flushed red, just like the sunset glow on the horizon.

But he risked his life to keep Gugla a company, patiently chatting and tasting wine with him.

During the conversation, he secretly activated the Mingyu Skill, and the warm internal energy flowed slowly through his body, gradually forcing the effects of the alcohol to his fingertips.

He lowered his fingers, and the glistening sweat from the alcohol slowly slid down his fingers like beads from a broken string, dripping silently along the edge of the wooden table, telling of his composure and wit.

Gugra occasionally noticed Shi Feiyang's little gesture, but she didn't point it out; instead, the smile in her eyes deepened.

She liked Shi Feiyang's calm yet witty demeanor, and her affection for him grew stronger and stronger, like wild grass growing vigorously in spring, spreading wildly and uncontrollably.

The night was as dark as ink, so thick it seemed impossible to see through, and the entire inn was shrouded in a deathly silence.

Just then, a slight noise came from outside the inn. The sound was like the low hooting of an owl in the darkness, carrying an eerie and sinister quality, instantly breaking the oppressive silence.

(End of this chapter)