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

Chapter 259. Parting in the snow, reluctant to part; the wolf stronghold awaits breach, righteousness must prevail.

When Wu Biao saw Shi Feiyang blocking his way aggressively, he was startled, but his years of experience in the bloody world of martial arts had forged his brave and fearless character, and he would never easily back down.

At this moment, he was filled with resentment and dejection. This chaotic battle not only failed to yield any wealth, but also cost him the lives of his son and brother, and his forces were severely weakened.

He clenched his teeth, his cheeks bulged, and the muscles in his face twitched slightly with anger and resentment.

A fierce glint flashed in his eyes, like a hungry wolf eyeing its prey, a glint mixed with despair and desolation.

He held a pair of Wu-Yue hooks high in his hands, which gleamed with a cold light under the strong sunlight, like two deadly scythes reaching out from the deepest hell, exuding a chilling aura.

Wu Biao unleashed the "Wind and Thunder Hook Technique," his aura suddenly becoming incredibly violent, like a gale carrying thunder, imbued with an intense, almost tangible, murderous aura. He roared to the sky, his voice booming like a bell, echoing across the heavens and earth with boundless resentment: "Shi Feiyang! You meddlesome brat, don't push your luck! Today, even if it costs me my old life, I will not allow a busybody like you to ruin my Old Wolf Stronghold's grand plan. You think I'll let this go? Absolutely not!"

Before he finished speaking, he brandished his double hooks, launching a fierce attack on Shi Feiyang with a do-or-die spirit. As the hooks danced, the wind howled and shrieked, and wherever they passed, the air was sliced ​​by the sharpest blades in the world, emitting a piercing hissing sound.

Upon hearing Wu Biao's words, Shi Feiyang snorted coldly. His voice was like a thousand-year-old icicle suddenly breaking in the cold night, crisp yet carrying a bone-chilling coldness.

He stood tall and straight, like a proud pine tree, exuding an innate aura of dominance. His gaze was piercing as he stared directly at Wu Biao, and he shouted loudly, "Wu Biao, you villain! You've committed countless atrocities, burning, killing, and robbing, your sins are unforgivable! Today is your day of reckoning! I, Shi Feiyang, roam the world solely to uphold justice and cleanse it of all filth. Today, I will take your life and rid the people of this scourge!"

No sooner had he finished speaking than he flashed forward, his speed as fast as lightning. Those around him only saw a blur of black shadow before he shot out like an arrow. During his charge, Shi Feiyang unleashed a move from the "Hundred Victories Saber Technique," the "Golden Dragon Coiling Claws." His palms moved rapidly, like two sharp blades capable of cutting through iron like mud, creating a series of overlapping palm shadows that resembled golden dragons coiling and dancing in the air, carrying a powerful pressure as they enveloped Wu Biao.

In an instant, the shadows of blades overlapped, dazzling the eye, as if countless gleaming, swift blades were simultaneously slashing at Wu Biao.

Seeing this, Wu Biao was greatly alarmed and hurriedly swung his double hooks to defend himself. "Clang clang clang," the blade and the double hooks clashed fiercely, sparks flew, and the crisp sound of the impact echoed throughout the land, as if playing a stirring battle song.

The two moved with ghostly speed, exchanging blows, each move carrying a deadly threat.

Shi Feiyang's "Hundred Victories Saber Technique" was fierce and domineering, each palm strike carrying the power to split mountains and shatter rocks, the palm wind howling as if it could crush everything around it into dust. Wu Biao's "Wind and Thunder Hook Technique" was no less impressive, his double hooks dancing like two agile yet deadly venomous snakes, cunning and ruthless, each attack aimed directly at Shi Feiyang's vital points.

The surrounding ground, battered by the combined power of their internal energy and the force of their weapons, became pitted and uneven, with dirt flying everywhere, forming numerous craters of varying depths. Nearby vegetation snapped and collapsed under the impact of this powerful force, its branches and leaves torn and scattered, experiencing a merciless storm. Shi Feiyang keenly seized upon Wu Biao's opening and immediately unleashed the ultimate technique of the "Hundred Victories Saber Technique," "Heaven and Earth United in Longevity."

He roared, his voice shaking the heavens and earth, as if it could tear the sky apart. He thrust out both palms with a sudden burst of power, like a surging tide, carrying the force of an overturned mountain, seemingly about to turn the entire world upside down.

This palm strike gathered all of Shi Feiyang's power. Wherever the palm wind passed, deep cracks instantly appeared in the ground, as if the earth had been torn apart. The surrounding air made a "sizzling" sound under the pressure of the palm force.

Caught off guard, Wu Biao inwardly cried out in alarm. He instinctively swung his Wu Yue hooks to defend himself, but the palm strike was incredibly powerful. With a "crack," it severed both Wu Yue hooks in his hand, the broken hooks falling to the ground like two withered leaves.

The force of the palm strike remained undiminished, like a powerful cannonball, striking Wu Biao directly in the chest.

Wu Biao's eyes widened in disbelief, his mouth gaped open, and a mouthful of blood gushed out like a fountain, drawing a bright red arc in the air, like a beautiful flower blooming in a pool of blood.

His body flew backward uncontrollably like a kite with a broken string, crashing heavily to the ground and raising a cloud of dust.

Wu Biao lay motionless on the ground, already dead.

At this moment, the heroes of Xiong Ying were hot on their heels.

Their faces were filled with fervor, their eyes burned with fury, and their weapons gleamed coldly, like a pack of tigers descending from the mountains, their imposing presence overwhelming. In this vast expanse of land, they launched a fierce attack on the remaining bandits of Old Wolf Stronghold.

In an instant, the sounds of battle shook the heavens, seemingly turning the sky upside down; the clash of weapons was incessant, the crisp metallic sounds intertwining in a continuous chorus.

The heroes of Xiong Ying were like tigers emerging from the mountains, their attacks fierce and swift, like a whirlwind sweeping away fallen leaves, or like a surging tide, unstoppable.

The weapons in their hands gleamed with a cold light, and each swing carried immense force.

The villains of Old Wolf Stronghold were utterly powerless against this overwhelming offensive, and they all let out shrill screams.

The screams mingled together, like a mournful lament echoing throughout the land.

The thugs fell one after another, their bodies contorted, blood gushing from their wounds.

Blood flowed freely across the ground, forming rivers of blood that stained the land a shocking crimson, resembling an endless sea of ​​blood. The air was thick with the pungent stench of blood, enough to make one nauseous.

The villains of Old Wolf Stronghold were almost all killed, leaving only a few survivors who fled in panic amidst the chaos.

Their eyes were filled with terror, like stray dogs, and their figures looked particularly disheveled in the blood-red afterglow of the setting sun.

They stumbled and fled as if countless demons were chasing them.

After annihilating the bandits of Old Wolf Stronghold, the joy in the hearts of the heroes and the disciples of Xiong Ying was like a flood that had burst its banks, and could no longer be contained.

They cheered in unison, their shouts reaching the heavens.

Some were so excited their faces turned red, waving their weapons; others had tears glistening in their eyes as they embraced each other.

Shi Feiyang stood in front of the crowd, his posture upright, like a proud pine tree.

Looking at the scene before him, he was filled with emotion and slowly said, "The world of martial arts is full of dangers, and villains are as common as weeds. It is our good fortune and the world of martial arts that we have been able to eliminate the scourge of Old Wolf Stronghold. However, the road of martial arts is long and arduous, and we must continue to forge ahead to protect justice and peace in this world."

Then, Shi Feiyang led the heroes and his disciples to mount their horses.

With neighing horses and hooves flying, they surged forward like a black torrent towards Wulang City, the capital of the Naiman tribe.

In the city, Khan Elizabeth had already received the news and personally led his people to welcome them.

Shi Feiyang strode forward, clasped his hands in a fist and respectfully said, "Great Khan, we have come here today to present you with 500,000 taels of silver and 1 million shi of grain, hoping to help the Naiman tribe overcome its difficulties and allow its people to live in peace and prosperity."

Ellie, beaming with gratitude, said, “The entire Naiman tribe will forever remember the great kindness of the Grand Master. Your actions are truly benevolent and righteous, and we admire you greatly.”

When the news spread, the more than 300,000 people of the Naiman tribe cheered with joy.

The people spread the news excitedly, their faces beaming with happiness.

Everyone received money, and every household had enough food to eat; the tribe was filled with jubilation.

The people knelt down and kowtowed towards the direction of Khan Elizabeth's camp, shouting, "The Khan is wise and protects us!"

When the Tatar tribe chief Laksen, his son Mabaha, and daughter Ulai heard the news, they were greatly alarmed.

Lakoxian frowned and said with a solemn expression, "The situation on the grassland has changed so drastically overnight. It seems that the rise of the Naiman tribe is unstoppable." Mabaha also looked worried: "Father, if we don't make plans soon, we may be in trouble."

Ulai stood to the side, a hint of resentment in his eyes: "Is my Tatar tribe destined to decline like this?"

After some discussion, Lako decided to lead more than 30,000 people to join the Naiman tribe and take the initiative to request to be incorporated into the Naiman tribe.

Before the Naiman tribe's camp, Lakshan greeted them with a broad smile and respectfully said, "Great Khan, our Tatar tribe sincerely wishes to submit and hopes that the Great Khan will accept us. I am willing to betroth my daughter, Ulai, to Young Master Shi Feiyang to establish a marriage alliance."

Elaine Khan frowned slightly, pondering to herself, but wore a gentle smile on her face: "Chief Laksen, I will accept your submission. However, the matter of marriage must respect Young Master Shi's wishes and be discussed at length."

Subsequently, Khan Elizabeth ordered the confiscation of the weapons of the Tata tribe and the disbandment of their troops.

However, in order to appease the crowd, they were given more money and food.

Although Lakshmi felt somewhat disappointed, he understood the deeper meaning behind Ili Khan's actions and had no choice but to accept it.

Amidst a joyous and jubilant atmosphere, the matter was considered a happy one, and peace was restored to the grassland.

In late autumn, the vast grasslands seem to be painted with a somber hue by nature's brush.

The gale, like a wild horse unleashed, galloped across the grassland, howling and sweeping in, emitting mournful roars.

In the sky, the heavy snow fell like goose feathers, covering the earth with a thick, white coat.

The distant mountains, shrouded in snow, appeared and disappeared, resembling a traditional Chinese ink painting.

After a period of bustling activity, Wulang City gradually returned to silence.

The city lights flickered and swayed against the backdrop of wind and snow, like twinkling stars in the night sky.

Shi Feiyang, Lin Wanqing, Gong Simeng, Bai Zhi, and Liu Guihua enjoyed the warmth of family affection in the large yurt outside the castle.

Inside the yurt, the fire roared, warming everyone's bodies and minds.

Looking at the beautiful women before him, Shi Feiyang's heart was filled with tenderness. He said softly, "Though the journey of the martial world has been full of trials and tribulations, having you ladies by my side is the greatest blessing of my life. The liveliness and honor of this castle are but fleeting clouds. Only the time spent with you is the most precious."

Upon hearing this, the ladies' eyes were filled with love, and they all nestled close to Shi Feiyang.

A few days later, inside the castle, after finishing her official duties, a hint of fatigue appeared on Ellie's noble and beautiful face.

She raised her head slightly, her gaze passing through the window towards the distant yurt, a feeling of longing welling up in her heart.

Then, she quietly instructed the maid beside her: "Go, summon Shi Feiyang into the city, and tell him I want to see him."

Upon receiving the summons, Shi Feiyang had a sudden thought.

He stood up, straightened his clothes, and said to the ladies beside him, "I'll be right back. Please wait here patiently. The world is vast, and I must protect you all, but I also cannot betray Ellie's feelings."

After saying this, he strode out of the yurt and into the world of wind and snow.

Stepping into the castle, Shi Feiyang, filled with anticipation and longing, walked quickly yet steadily towards Ellie's palace.

The palace gates, as if bearing the weight of time, slowly opened, emitting a deep and resonant sound.

In an instant, Shi Feiyang's gaze was firmly drawn to the scene before him.

Ellie's unparalleled beauty, like the most beautiful flower in spring, bloomed in his vision.

Ellie stood inside the palace, dressed in the exquisitely embroidered clothing of the Naiman tribe. The clothing was made of luxurious brocade, embroidered with intricate and beautiful patterns, each stitch seemingly telling the ancient legends of the grasslands.

The collar and cuffs are inlaid with dazzling gemstones, which shimmer with a captivating brilliance under the soft candlelight.

A wide belt cinched her waist, perfectly accentuating her slender figure. The hanging ornaments on the belt swayed gently with her movements, producing a pleasant rustling sound. Her long, ink-black hair was casually draped over her shoulders, with a few strands falling beside her fair, jade-like face, adding to her allure.

Ellie's eyes were bright and clear, like stars twinkling in the night sky, and she was looking at Shi Feiyang with joy.

Her eyes held both the joy of a long-awaited reunion and a deep longing, like a clear spring that could completely melt one's heart.

Her lips curved slightly upward, revealing a gentle smile that was as warm as a spring breeze.

Every expression and every movement of Eliza exudes an innate noble air.

After becoming queen, she exudes an irresistible charm that captivates anyone who sees her at first glance.

Shi Feiyang was slightly taken aback, his heart pounding like a deer's. Then, with a warm smile, he strode forward, clasped his hands in a fist salute, and said in a voice full of deep affection and respect, "Madam, time seems to have been exceptionally kind to you. You have become even more beautiful and radiant. Now, under your careful governance, the grasslands are teeming with cattle and sheep, and the people live in peace and prosperity. It is truly a blessing for the people of the grasslands." Elizabeth moved lightly, like a blooming lotus flower, to greet him. Her eyes were filled with undisguised joy as she murmured softly, "Shi Lang, you have finally come. Although this palace is spacious and magnificent, with its carved beams and painted rafters, it always feels empty. Without your company, it is like a withered tree in the cold winter, lacking warmth and vitality."

Shi Feiyang reached out and gently grasped Yili's soft hand; those hands were delicate and warm.

He gazed deeply into Elizabeth's eyes and said, "My lady, our meeting and acquaintance is a blessing from heaven, a most precious destiny bestowed upon me in this life. The chivalrous code of the martial world and the myriad lives of the grasslands are equally important to me. I am willing to give my all to join hands with you, to protect the people of this land from suffering, and to safeguard the peace and tranquility of this beautiful land year after year."

The two leaned against each other and slowly sat down on the soft couch beside them.

Ellie leaned gently against Shi Feiyang's shoulder, feeling his broad and warm embrace, the safest harbor in the world.

Shi Feiyang reached out and gently stroked Yili's beautiful hair, the silky strands flowing lightly through his fingertips. He said softly, "My lady, although we are now in different worlds—one of us venturing into the bloody battlefields of the martial world, and the other governing a tribe in the vast grasslands—our hearts are bound together by an invisible red thread. Just like the snowflakes dancing in the sky outside the window, though they have weathered storms and fallen from the distant horizon, they eventually return to their roots. Our love, too, is like the palace in the snowstorm; no matter how fierce the wind and rain, it remains as firm as a rock, unshakable."

Elizabeth looked up, her eyes glistening with tears of emotion and happiness. She nodded slightly, her voice trembling with emotion, and said, "Shilang, with you by my side, my heart is filled with sunshine and warmth. Your existence is the greatest happiness of my life, and my strongest support in this chaotic world."

In this warm and quiet room, the candlelight flickered, illuminating the two figures leaning against each other.

The wind and snow outside the window continued to rage, with howling winds and swirling snowflakes, but their hearts were filled with happiness and peace.

Time seemed to stand still at this moment, and the whole world consisted only of the two of them, enjoying this rare and precious moment of intimacy. Every moment was like a dazzling pearl, inlaid on the canvas of their love.

Laksen, the chief of the Tatar tribe, wore a thick mink cloak and a leather hat inlaid with gemstones. Although he was over fifty years old, he still stood tall and his eyes revealed the majesty of someone who had long held a high position.

Beside him stood his son, Mabaha, a burly man with broad shoulders and a powerful build, resembling a majestic mountain, exuding a fierce and valiant air in every gesture; his daughter, Wulai, had eyebrows like distant mountains and eyes like autumn water, and her beautiful ethnic minority costume accentuated her graceful figure, though the occasional glint of stubbornness in her eyes revealed her unique personality.

Kong Sanjiao, the "Seven Swordsman," was dressed in pristine white, with a long sword hanging at his waist. The sword gleamed coldly, mirroring his aloof yet elegant demeanor. Fan Shi, the "Xingyi Quan" master, had a calm expression and agile movements. Every step he took was firm and powerful, as if the earth itself trembled slightly beneath his feet.

Liu Yehua, known as "Hundred-Leaf Blade," gripped his renowned Hundred-Leaf Blade tightly in his hand, the blade trembling slightly, recounting his past illustrious exploits. Southwest Wind, wielding "Tai Chi Blade," exuded an air of otherworldly elegance, dressed in a loose Taoist robe, his Tai Chi Blade gleaming softly in the snowy light.

The elders of the Xiong Ying Society, Liao Pei ("Tongbei Fist"), Lie Quan ("Qiankun Blade"), Wu Zhong ("Iron Palm"), the heads of various incense halls, Xiao Lingling ("Mandarin Duck Blade"), Miao Menlong ("Divine Archer"), Shan Zhi ("Plum Blossom Dart"), Xie Wen ("Flying Eagle Detective"), and the young page Shi Xiong, along with other heroes, entered the snow-covered territory of the Naiman tribe, accompanied by Madam Shi Gong Simeng, Lin Wanqing, Bai Zhi, and Liu Guihua.

Gong Simeng, Lin Wanqing, Bai Zhi, and Liu Guihua are all beautiful young women, each with a graceful figure and a pretty face.

They wore magnificent cloaks, which, against the backdrop of the snow, added to their allure.

Gong Simeng's eyes are gentle, like a clear spring; Lin Wanqing is lively and playful, her smile like a flower blooming in spring; Bai Zhi has a cool and aloof temperament, like a fairy in the snow; Liu Guihua is warm and generous, showing her forthrightness in every gesture.

At this moment, the snowflakes fell heavily, like countless white petals dancing in the air.

The distant mountains were covered in white snow, resembling a winding silver dragon lying between heaven and earth.

On the grassland, the thick snow is like a white ocean, stretching as far as the eye can see.

Looking at the beautiful scenery before him, Lakoxian couldn't help but exclaim, "The snowscape of the Naiman tribe is truly magnificent. Although my Tatar tribe also has beautiful winter scenery, it cannot compare to the grandeur and magnificence of this place."

Mabaha chimed in, “Father is absolutely right. This snow-covered grassland reminds me of the scenes of charging into battle on the battlefield back then, with the same magnificent momentum.”

Ulai said softly, "Such a beautiful view would be even better if we could enjoy it together with our loved ones."

After saying that, her gaze unconsciously turned back to Wulang City, the capital of the Naiman tribe, and her cheeks flushed slightly.

Kong Sanjiao nodded slightly and said, "The snowy scenery of this grassland is indeed breathtaking. However, the world is full of dangers, and we, as people, must not forget our responsibilities while enjoying the beautiful scenery." He subtly rejected Wu Lai's feelings on Shi Feiyang's behalf.

Fan Shi nodded and said, "Brother Kong is absolutely right. The scenery in this world is beautiful, but the grudges and affections in the martial world are like this heavy snow, swirling and difficult to sever. Only by using our martial arts skills to uphold justice in the martial world can we live a life without regrets."

Liu Yehua brandished his Hundred-Leaf Blade, its blade flashing in the snow, and said, "Haha, this snowy scene reminds me of the battle I fought with the enemy on a snowy night back then. That battle, with its flashing blades and blood splattering on the snow, still makes my blood boil when I think about it now."

Southwest Wind smiled slightly and said, "Brother Liu, in the world of martial arts, killing is inevitable, but we must also be compassionate. The way of Tai Chi emphasizes using softness to overcome hardness and valuing harmony."

Liao Pei clenched his fists, unleashing a Tongbei Fist, the force of his punches shaking off the surrounding snowflakes. He said, "This snow is beautiful, but it's also bitterly cold. Just like the path of the martial world, it's full of hardships and dangers. But as long as we brothers are united, we will surely overcome all difficulties." Lie Quan patted Liao Pei on the shoulder and said, "Brother Liao is right. Our Xiong Ying Society is determined to carve out a place for ourselves in this martial world and let the world know our fame."

Miao Menlong pulled on the longbow on his back and said, "Such a beautiful scene, it would be even better if we could shoot down a snow eagle."

Dan Zhi laughed and said, "Brother Miao, this snow eagle is not easy to shoot. You have to be careful not to miss and hurt the other creatures on this grassland." Haha! The crowd burst into laughter.

Gong Simeng looked at everyone and said with a smile, "Heroes and warriors, the beautiful scenery of the grassland in the snow is rare. Why don't you enjoy it to the fullest and forget about the troubles of the martial world for a while?" Lin Wanqing said cheerfully, "Yes, yes, we can't let such a beautiful snow scene go to waste."

Bai Zhi said softly, "This snow scene reminds me of winter in my hometown, which is also covered in silver. I just wonder if my relatives back home are doing well now." Liu Guihua said heartily, "Sisters, don't be sad. It's fate that we can enjoy this snow scene on the grassland together today. Come on, let's all have some fun."

The group toured the snow-covered territory and castle of the Naiman tribe, enjoying the beautiful snow scenery of the grassland. At the same time, they talked about the grudges and affections of the martial arts world, and shared their stories and insights.

In early winter, the biting wind, like a ferocious beast, rampages across the vast grasslands, emitting mournful howls. The once vibrant grasslands have now been transformed into a boundless sea of ​​snow.

Looking out, the world is a pristine white expanse. The distant mountains are covered in thick layers of snow, resembling slumbering silver dragons, fast asleep in this icy landscape. The snow, like a heavy blanket, tightly envelops the entire grassland, and the usually rushing rivers are frozen solid, losing their former vibrancy and clamor.

There's an old saying that "warfare is unnecessary in winter," but in the world of martial arts, the lure of profit can often break through all conventions.

Zhong Renwang, now equipped with an iron arm and two iron palms, was blinded by greed.

In order to seize the mysterious "Sacred Heart Manual" and the legendary elixir of immortality from Shi Feiyang, he traveled all over the martial arts world, like a treacherous spider weaving malicious rumors.

He spread false rumors about Shi Feiyang everywhere, attempting to tarnish Shi Feiyang's reputation and disrupt the martial arts world.

Meanwhile, he also gathered a group of martial arts masters with similar ulterior motives. Led by Zhong Renwang, Dugu Yan, and Xie Zhichuan, these people braved the harsh weather of the raging wind and snow and resolutely headed towards the Naiman tribe. Their figures appeared and disappeared in the wind and snow, like a group of evil spirits from hell, bringing an ominous atmosphere to this peaceful grassland.

Xie Wen, known as the "Flying Eagle Detective," is renowned in the martial arts world for his "eagle eyes" and "eagle ears."

With his keen insight and extensive intelligence network, he quickly learned of this information.

Upon learning of this, Xie Wen dared not delay and rushed towards Wulang City to urgently report to Shi Feiyang.

At this moment, the city of Wulang, covered in snow, resembled a mysterious white castle.

Shi Feiyang was in the royal palace in the city, trying to conceive with Yili, when he heard that Xie Wen had arrived. He quickly got up and went to the council hall to meet Xie Wen.

Upon hearing Xie Wen's report, Shi Feiyang's expression turned grave. After a moment of contemplation, he slowly said, "The best course of action now is to prevent the Naiman tribe from suffering this undeserved calamity and being devastated. We must divert the flames of war to Old Wolf Village. Issue my order to Elder Liao to lead his troops to Old Wolf Village in a show of force, to make a show of force, rather than actually attacking it, to avoid losses. I will be there shortly."

Xie Wen knelt on one knee, clasped his hands in a fist and accepted the order: "Your subordinate understands and will certainly do it properly." After saying this, he turned and strode away.

Upon learning the news, the heroes of Xiong Ying showed no fear or hesitation.

They all mounted their horses, which pawed at the snow and neighed.

Against the backdrop of swirling snowflakes, the figures of the heroes appeared exceptionally tall and resolute.

They left Wulang City in a grand procession and swaggered towards Old Wolf Village.

The dull thud of horses' hooves echoed across the snow, like a stirring battle song.

Since the tragic deaths of its leader Wu Biao and his sons and brothers, Old Wolf Village has fallen into a chaotic state of leaderlessness.

The enormous sums of money, grain, weapons, and horses that had once piled up disappeared without a trace overnight.

Many of the bandits who were originally ordered by Wu Biao to stay and guard Laolang Village dispersed when they saw that the situation was hopeless.

Now, only a little over a thousand bandits remain in this old wolf stronghold, trapped in the bitterly cold mountain stronghold under the leadership of their self-proclaimed chieftain Wu Yun and deputy chieftains Wu Dang, Wu Hui, and Wu Can. They have long since run out of food supplies and can only endure hunger, desperately hoping that early summer next year will allow them to go out again to burn, kill, and plunder, hoarding money and grain to alleviate their immediate crisis.

Suddenly, a subordinate rushed in to report that over a hundred members of the Cherry Blossom Society were coming to attack Old Wolf Stronghold with great momentum. Upon hearing this, Wu Yun was first taken aback, then threw his head back and burst into laughter. The laughter echoed in the empty stronghold, sounding particularly eerie and terrifying.

After laughing, a sly glint flashed in his eyes as he said, "Those people from the Xiong Ying Society are truly incredibly foolish! Do they really think my Old Wolf Stronghold is without anyone? Hmph, they're courting death!"

Wu Dang chimed in, "Brother is right. We should take this opportunity to teach them a lesson and restore the prestige of our Old Wolf Stronghold!"

Wu Hui sneered, "Let them taste the power of our Old Wolf Stronghold, and see if they dare to provoke us again!"

Wu Can remained silent with a gloomy face, but the murderous intent in his eyes grew stronger.

Wu Yun immediately gave the order: "Pass on my command, all brothers, immediately set up defenses and be on high alert! Repair all those traps and mechanisms, and wait for those scoundrels from the Xiong Ying Society to obediently fall into our trap. When that happens, not one of them will leave alive!"

The bandits obeyed the order and sprang into action, plunging the entire Old Wolf Village into a tense and busy atmosphere.

A biting wind howled, and snow fell heavily; a thrilling battle seemed imminent.

The mighty Xiong Ying tribe arrived in a grand procession to the valley near Old Wolf Village.

At this moment, the valley was covered in silvery white, with the earth blanketed in snow.

The surrounding mountains, shrouded in snow, appeared and disappeared, resembling a delicate ink painting. The biting wind howled through the valleys, emitting low, mournful cries, telling of the tense atmosphere of the impending battle.

The heroes set up camp in the valley in an orderly manner.

Tents sprang up quickly like mushrooms after rain, flags fluttered in the wind, and the embroidered emblem of the Xiong Ying Society stood out prominently in this pristine white world.

The group did not rush to attack Old Wolf Stronghold, because Xie Wen had already explained in detail to the heroes: "Brothers, Old Wolf Stronghold is located in a treacherous area, riddled with traps, and the Gate of Life and Death is especially dangerous. To enter Old Wolf Stronghold, one must possess martial arts skills as high as the Grand Master's. Otherwise, once we step into the Gate of Life and Death, the slightest mistake will trigger the traps, and our painstakingly assembled team will surely be wiped out. Therefore, the best course of action is to remain still and wait for the Grand Master to arrive."

Everyone agreed and nodded in agreement.

Inside the royal palace of Wulang City, time seemed to freeze, like a heavy lead stone, the atmosphere so oppressive it was hard to breathe.

Ellie, the most beautiful woman in the martial arts world, is now the Khan of the Naiman tribe. She wears a magnificent mink cloak, the fur shimmering softly in the dim light, like the countless brilliant yet slightly bitter moments she has experienced. Her hair flutters gently in the cold wind that blows from somewhere, just like her chaotic thoughts, tangled together without any order.

Ellie slowly raised her eyes. Her once bright and lively eyes were now filled with deep reluctance and deep worry, like a clear spring shrouded in gloom, having lost its former luster.

She parted her lips slightly and sighed softly, a sigh carrying immense weight and bearing the weight of her deepest sorrow: "Shi Lang, since I took on the heavy responsibility of leading the Naiman tribe, I have been burdened by mountains of affairs every day. The days when we could travel the world hand in hand, sword in hand, roaming freely, are like a distant and beautiful dream, gradually fading from my memory. Now, you are about to go alone to the perilous and dangerous Old Wolf Village. My heart feels like it is being pierced by a thousand tiny needles, the pain is unbearable. We are a loving couple, yet we have not yet borne the fruit of our love, nor have we been able to continue your precious bloodline. Alas!"

As she spoke, tears welled up uncontrollably in her eyes, glistening like broken pearls. She blinked desperately, trying to hold back the tears.

Upon seeing this, Shi Feiyang felt a pang of pain in his heart. He quickly stepped forward and gently but firmly grasped Yi Li's hands. Her hands were broad and warm, conveying endless strength and comfort.

He gazed into Elizabeth's eyes, his gaze firm and affectionate: "My lady, do you know that you have now become an indispensable pillar of the Naiman tribe? The livelihood and safety of these thousands of people depend entirely on you. The tribe's prosperity today is all thanks to your tireless efforts and meticulous governance day and night. As for the matter of offspring, it is all ordained by Heaven, and there is a destiny for us. Why should we add to our worries? The path of the martial world is inherently fraught with thorns and dangers. Although we are on different battlefields, how can my concern for you and your love for me be diminished by distance and differences in status? You only need to focus on governing the tribe. When I go to Old Wolf Village, my sword will surely cut down all evil in the world and restore peace and tranquility to this great grassland."

After saying this, Shi Feiyang gently embraced Yili, tenderly holding the most precious treasure in the world. He leaned down slightly and placed a deep and gentle kiss on Yili's forehead, a kiss filled with his deep affection and reluctance to part with her.

Then, he slowly released Ellie, resolutely turned around, and strode towards the palace gate. Every step he took was firm and powerful, yet it seemed to carry an endless weight.

Illy felt as if an invisible hand was gripping her heart tightly. Without thinking, she followed closely behind Shi Feiyang, seeing him off all the way, wanting to use this short journey to deeply etch Shi Feiyang's image into her memory.

Before they knew it, they had arrived at the city gate of Wulang City.

At this moment, snow was falling heavily from the sky, with goose feather-like snowflakes fluttering down. It seemed that even the heavens were moved by the parting of Shi Feiyang and Yili, the loving couple, and showered down this pure white snow, adding a touch of poignant beauty to their separation.

(End of this chapter)