Lu Xueqi appeared serene on the surface, but inside, she was anything but calm. Her heart raced, especially after Ji Changfeng's teasing whisper, "Senior Sister, you smell so nice~"
Feeling his presence behind her, her fair cheeks gradually flushed, the soft pink spreading until her entire face glowed tenderly.
"Senior Sister Lu?" Ji Changfeng reached out, lightly poking her arm.
Instantly, Lu Xueqi's delicate frame stiffened. The physical contact felt foreign, yet, for some reason, she didn't recoil. Why don't I mind?
"Seventh Senior Brother, wait for us!" a shout came from behind.
Glancing back, they saw Zhang Xiaofan and Qi Hao leisurely catching up on their magical treasures. Truthfully, Qi Hao could have overtaken them, but with his sharp perception, he'd noticed the subtle chemistry between Ji Changfeng and Lu Xueqi. Why chase after them? To eat their dog food?
Honestly, Qi Hao was genuinely impressed by Ji Changfeng. The man's strength was undeniable—there was no room for defiance.
Whoosh!
Hearing the shouts, Lu Xueqi abruptly slowed her sword's speed. The sudden halt caught Ji Changfeng off guard, and he stumbled forward, his body pressing against her soft frame.
"!!!" Lu Xueqi froze.
She silently guided the flying sword, not uttering a word, lacking even the courage to glance back at Ji Changfeng.
"Pfft, pfft." Ji Changfeng lifted his head from her hair, spitting out a few strands with a chuckle. "Senior Sister Lu, you'd better not let me fall."
Lu Xueqi didn't respond. She didn't know what to say.
Ji Changfeng, standing behind her, caught a glimpse of her flushed cheeks. A smile tugged at his lips. Senior Sister Lu… she's completely taken my shape.
Whoosh!
By now, Zhang Xiaofan and Qi Hao had caught up.
"Junior Brother Ji, should we head straight to Kongsang Mountain, or detour to rest somewhere first?" Qi Hao asked.
Kongsang Mountain was far from Qingyun Mountain. If they flew nonstop, it would likely be pitch dark by the time they arrived.
Ji Changfeng replied casually, "Let's rest in Heyang City for the night and set out for Kongsang Mountain tomorrow morning."
"Sounds good." Qi Hao nodded, sharing the same thought. From Heyang City to Kongsang Mountain was just over three thousand li—a half-day's journey at their speed. Leaving tomorrow morning, they'd reach their destination before nightfall.
Zhang Xiaofan and Lu Xueqi had no objections. Zhang Xiaofan didn't know enough to argue, and Lu Xueqi… was too shy to speak.
The four flew on their swords to Heyang City.
As the largest city within a hundred li, Heyang City bustled with countless ordinary folk. The moment Ji Changfeng's group entered, they drew the attention of many martial artists. Naturally, Lu Xueqi stood out the most—her stunning beauty was impossible to ignore.
In response, Ji Changfeng calmly released a faint trace of sword intent.
Whoosh.
The sword intent enveloped him and Lu Xueqi, prickling the eyes of anyone who dared to stare. Noticing this, Lu Xueqi's lips curved slightly, and she subtly shifted closer to Ji Changfeng. The two walked so closely they seemed glued together.
Entering Heyang City, the group headed to the largest inn, Shanhai Garden. The waiter spotted them from afar, immediately recognizing they were no ordinary travelers, and hurried to greet them.
"Honored guests, dining or staying the night?"
Qi Hao glanced at Ji Changfeng, who remained silent, so he stepped forward. "Four top rooms and some food and wine."
"Right away!" The waiter grinned, ushering them inside. "Please, take a seat, and I'll arrange everything."
The four settled in the inn. Barely a moment passed before the waiter returned with trays of dishes. A steaming plate of freshly stewed fish caught everyone's eye, its rich, savory aroma wafting through the air.
Zhang Xiaofan, Dazhu Peak's head chef, perked up instantly. He grabbed the waiter, eager to discuss. "Waiter, what kind of fish is this, and how's it prepared?"
The waiter beamed. "You've got a keen eye, sir! This is our signature 'Clear-Stewed Dream Fish,' fragrant and tender, with a sweet, fresh taste. It's renowned within a hundred li of Heyang City."
Zhang Xiaofan couldn't resist. He picked up his chopsticks and dug in, tasting a piece of the fish. "Not bad, not bad! Fine texture, expertly cooked. There's a hint of sugar for sweetness, and ginger to cut the fishiness…"
Savoring it with closed eyes, Zhang Xiaofan, Dazhu Peak's culinary master, dissected the recipe for the "Clear-Stewed Dream Fish" with ease. The waiter was visibly impressed, and even Qi Hao and Lu Xueqi glanced at him in surprise.
One of the Seven Peaks Tournament's top four… and a master chef?
Ji Changfeng, smiling, picked up a piece of fish and placed it in Lu Xueqi's bowl. "Xiaofan's our head chef at Dazhu Peak. This kind of skill is only natural for him."
Lu Xueqi stared at the fish in her bowl, silent. But a faint blush crept across her icy, delicate face.
Qi Hao and Zhang Xiaofan said nothing, simply picking up their chopsticks to eat. They assumed the meal would pass quietly.
But their table had already drawn attention. The speed of their service, in particular, sparked envy. Many patrons had waited a quarter or two for their food, yet Ji Changfeng's group was served almost immediately after sitting down.
This disparity stirred discontent among some, though most recognized the group's extraordinary presence and held their tongues. The martial world was like that—strength commanded respect.
Still, while most stayed silent, not everyone did.
"Hey, waiter! We were here first. Why'd you serve them before us?" a clear, sharp voice rang out.
The four turned to look. At another table sat eight people: six men in yellow robes, nameless background characters, and two women. One wore a black gown with a light black veil concealing her face. Though her features were hidden, her exposed fair skin hinted at striking beauty. The other, a young woman in a pale green dress, had delicate features and smooth skin, her lively eyes glinting with mischief.
In terms of appearance, she rivaled even Lu Xueqi.
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