Screams, cries, and the sound of thunder echoed relentlessly, gradually quieting as a violent wave of energy swept through. Inside the cave, the five remained tense until Hua Jingjing whispered, "Sister Qingyi... Could it be Master Li has arrived?"
"It shouldn't be... let's wait a bit longer," Qingyi hesitated. According to their agreement, Master Li would leave a message when he arrived, but her storage bag showed no signs. The other two fourth-tier warriors shook their heads, doubting that the commotion was from their supposed savior.
Suddenly, a rustling noise came from above, and the group readied their weapons, concealing their energies and remaining alert. Moments later, a flash of light descended, and the two fourth-tier warriors sprang into action, but their auras were shattered by a bolt of lightning, forcing them to spit out blood and weaken.
"What is Miss Qingyi doing?" came a surprised voice from above—it was Li Sheng. He had arrived riding the lightning, having sensed an energy signature nearby, but upon attacking, he found a masterful warrior who was swiftly defeated.
The remaining fourth-tier warriors fell easily, and upon sensing the gathered energies, Li Sheng began digging, only to find resistance from within. Reacting instinctively, he unleashed lightning, though he managed to pull back at the last moment.
"Master Li?" Qingyi exclaimed joyfully as they emerged from the ground. Seeing that only two guards were injured, Li Sheng felt relieved.
"What secret method did you use, Qingyi? How did you hide from my senses?" he asked curiously.
"It's a divine scroll crafted by a master, designed to conceal one's aura," she replied, brushing off the dust from her clothes, her smile bright.
Li Sheng nodded, turning to apologize to the two guards. "My apologies for the accidental injury."
"It's nothing... No need to be formal, Master Li!" they replied, still in awe of his overwhelming power.
"Where's that master?" Hua Jingjing asked, curious.
Li Sheng pointed to a charred body nearby. "That should be him. Too weak—couldn't even withstand one of my strikes. Just a false master..."
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"Couldn't withstand a single strike?" The guards were astonished, recalling their earlier underestimation.
Bowing slightly, Qingyi expressed, "This is the second time you've saved me, Master Li. I will remember this kindness. From now on, you will be our highest-level Purple Gold guest at Treasure Pavilion, with a 60% discount on all purchases."
"Sixty percent?" Li Sheng felt pleased, realizing his trip was worthwhile. "I accept your goodwill. By the way, where's your aunt?"
"She's battling the enemy master over there," Qingyi said, pointing west, concern etched on her face.
"Then let's go meet this master," Li Sheng chuckled, excitement bubbling within him. Once a distant goal, the realm of masters was now within reach.
A golden phoenix appeared, its feathers gleaming. Li Sheng lifted the others onto its back, soaring into the sky.
"Divine transformation!!!"
"Seed of Heavenly-grade divine power... Comparable to an ordinary master's combat strength!"
"Future great master!" The group looked on in awe, admiration filling their gazes. Only Qingyi, already suspecting his true potential, regarded him with admiration rather than shock.
"Miss Qingyi, I'll gather resources for you right away!"
Li Sheng raised an eyebrow with a smile, "I'll remember that."
They quickly approached the battlefield, feeling the powerful energy fluctuations. Before reaching the combat zone, Li Sheng set the group down and vanished like a bolt of lightning into the forest.
"Master Li is so young yet already on the path to becoming a great master. Such a talent must not be missed. Does Miss Qingyi have any thoughts on this?" Hua Jingjing suggested.
"Enough!" Qingyi shot her a glare. "Master Li has saved me several times; I can repay him in other ways. Interests are the best means to maintain relationships; marriage is a step backward."
"Such talent would surely please the parents, don't you think?" Hua Jingjing asked.
"His talent, appearance, and character are all admirable!" Qingyi affirmed, her eyes sparkling with appreciation.
"So what type of partner do you envision?" Hua Jingjing asked curiously.
"You silly girl..." Qingyi ruffled her hair. "I just want someone I love and who loves me back, sharing life's seasons together."
"Oh..." Hua Jingjing pondered, then blurted, "I get it! Sister Qingyi likes Master Li but is worried about competing with his sister and disciple, so she's hiding!"
"Knock it off!" Qingyi and Hua Jingjing tapped her head in unison, shaking their heads helplessly.
Arriving at the battlefield's edge, Li Sheng held back, observing. Yue Ling moved gracefully, her figure gliding effortlessly as countless sword shadows transformed into solid forms, radiating brilliant light amidst the slaughtering aura.
Her opponent, cloaked in black and wearing a conical hat, concealed his features but was evidently male, wielding a long spear that unleashed a deluge of luminous raindrops, exuding an overwhelming force.
The clash between the countless sword rays and the torrential light created a deafening roar, sending shockwaves that tore the earth apart, as chaos engulfed the surroundings.