As Hu Yulun faced off against the Bandits, beads of sweat dotted his forehead. His eyes were filled with wariness and determination. The Bandits, each brandishing their weapons, wore grim expressions as they closed in.
Suddenly, more Bandits flanked him from behind, moving like specters. Their footsteps echoed heavily through the silent forest. They quickly formed a tight encirclement, trapping Hu Yulun. His situation grew dire; surrounded on all sides, his escape route was blocked. His breath quickened, his heart pounded like a drum, and despair began to creep into his mind.
At that critical moment, a figure descended as if from the heavens, a formidable warrior appearing before Hu Yulun. It was Isabella, a striking and awe-inspiring female warrior.
She carried a Longsword on her back, her hair flowing in the wind, her gaze steady and sharp, as if able to pierce through the darkness.
Her physique was tall and athletic, a perfect blend of unyielding steel and smooth silk. Her golden hair cascaded down like a brilliant waterfall, dancing in the gentle breeze. Each strand shimmered with the sun's radiant light, full of vibrant life.
Her facial features were sharply defined, as though carved by a master artist. Beneath her high, straight nose, her slightly upturned lips were like delicate rose petals, though they would tighten into a firm line during battle.
The moment she appeared, she thought to herself, "Hmph, these lawless Bandits dare to run rampant here. I will make them know the power of justice. I will not allow innocent people to be harmed!" Her eyes, like deep, sapphire gems, were clear and bright, captivating to behold. Her gaze was resolute and fearless, as if nothing in the world could impede her forward march. When she glared at her enemies, a fiery rage ignited in her eyes, a burning heat that seemed capable of reducing all evil to ashes. Her eyebrows, arched like a crescent moon, added to her extraordinary aura.
Isabella wore the unique attire of the Northern barbarian tribes. Her form-fitting Leather Armor, made from the finest animal hides, was supple yet sturdy, accentuating her perfectly sculpted physique. The neckline and cuffs of the armor were studded with Wolf Fangs, gleaming with a cold light, as if warning enemies to stay away. The Leather Armor was decorated with ancient, mysterious Totems, hand-painted with vibrant pigments. The bold lines exuded a sense of power, symbolizing the tribe's glory and heritage. There were also obscure symbols, like mystical spells, emanating a sense of awe.
A wide, sturdy Belt was fastened around Isabella's waist, made of multiple layers of tough leather held together with copper rivets, making it incredibly strong. Hanging from the Belt was a razor-sharp Longsword. The hilt was wrapped in rough animal hide, providing a solid grip. The scabbard was crafted from fine Ebony, inlaid with dazzling gemstones: the passionate red of rubies, the deep blue of sapphires, and the mysterious green of emeralds, all shimmering under the bright sunlight. Her legs were encased in durable Leather Pants, with reinforced leather patches sewn onto the knees for added protection. She wore a pair of incredibly strong Leather Boots, the shafts of which were decorated with intricate patterns, and the soles were covered in non-slip treads. With each step, she exuded a steady and powerful presence, as if the earth itself was trembling.
Isabella casually glanced at the man before her, as Hu Yulun slowly walked towards her. Isabella noticed that he stood as straight as a pine tree, as if he possessed the strength to hold up the entire sky. Beneath his broad forehead, a pair of sword-like eyebrows sloped into his temples, thick and neatly arranged, like two sharp blades, emanating an inherent sense of authority. His deep eyes were like stars shining in the cold night, dark and bright, with an occasional glint that seemed to see through everything. His high nose was like a mountain peak, displaying his unique, resolute character. His lips were neither thick nor thin, with a slight upward curve that hinted at a smile, giving him a strange and fascinating mix of warmth and mystery.
His skin was a healthy, vibrant Wheat-colored, radiating an alluring glow in the bright sunlight, as if every inch of it contained boundless power. His dark, thick, short hair stood straight up, appearing exceptionally clean and crisp, full of vitality and energy. The contours of his face were distinct, his strong jawline like a work of art meticulously carved by a master craftsman, constantly showcasing his unyielding personality.
He wore a white shirt, the collar slightly open, revealing glimpses of his strong chest. The sleeves were casually rolled up, exposing his firm forearms, the lines flowing with power. The lower part of his clothing closely followed the lines of his long, straight legs, with slight wear and tear on the trousers, which only added to his unique, unrestrained charm. He wore a pair of black Leather Boots, each step steady and firm, as if he possessed an invisible, powerful aura, making it impossible to ignore his presence.
Isabella's body stiffened slightly, her eyes becoming unfocused for a moment. Subconsciously, she found herself developing a subtle, inexplicable fondness for Hu Yulun. This fondness came so suddenly and quietly, like a flower bud shyly hidden among green leaves, blooming silently before she could even notice.
She frowned slightly, her eyebrows like crescent moons, her eyes filled with a deep sense of confusion, even her curled eyelashes seemed to tremble slightly. She couldn't explain why. Perhaps it was his posture, as upright and resolute as a pine tree, which always drew her gaze, unable to look away; or perhaps it was the occasional gentle light that flashed in his deep, dark eyes, like a shooting star across the night sky, instantly illuminating the most hidden corners of her heart; or perhaps it was the faint, warm smile on his lips, like a gentle, warm spring breeze, gently brushing across her heart, creating subtle, almost imperceptible ripples.
"What's happening?" Isabella murmured to herself, her lips parting slightly. Her cheeks flushed with a faint blush, like peach blossoms, and even her small earlobes were tinged with an alluring pink.
This fondness was not a raging torrent, but a gentle stream flowing slowly within her heart. It was gently nourishing her heart, which had been as calm and still as a mirror, causing subtle changes within her. It was like a small stone dropped into a calm lake, which, while not creating a huge wave, had broken the existing tranquility.
Isabella gritted her teeth, her delicate brows furrowed, and a fiery rage burned in her beautiful eyes. Without hesitation, she charged at the Bandits like an arrow loosed from a bow. Her right hand swiftly drew the Longsword from her Belt, wielding it in the air as if drawing a brilliant flash of lightning. Her movements were as agile as a swift swallow, her steps as light as a willow swaying in the wind. With each swing of the sword, her slender yet powerful arm unleashed astonishing force. Her wrist turned with effortless flexibility, the Longsword whistling through the air with precise and powerful strikes, as if each blow could sever the world's evil.
The Bandits were thrown into disarray by her swift and fearless assault. They panicked, their eyes wide with fear and despair, watching this woman warrior who seemed to have descended from the heavens. They looked at her as if they saw the cold Grim Reaper wielding a scythe suddenly appear.
Isabella breathed slightly, easily repelling the Bandits, and then turned gracefully. Her gaze, like autumn water, fell upon the still-stunned Hu Yulun. A gentle smile curved her lips, slowly rising to a confident and charming arc. She showed no signs of fatigue; not even a drop of sweat appeared on her smooth forehead. Only the confidence and composure of victory bloomed freely on her exquisite face, like a resilient rose still blooming vibrantly amidst the flames of battle.
Hu Yulun stood still, staring at Isabella with wide eyes, his lips trembling slightly. He murmured, "You... you are amazing! I have never seen such a courageous woman." A feeling of deep respect welled up within him, like a surging tide, crashing wave after wave against his heart. From that moment on, he felt as if his heart had been illuminated by a warm and bright light, dispelling all darkness and fear. He knew that he was no longer alone on this perilous and treacherous journey, as if he had found a solid support.
After that intense and exhilarating battle, Hu Yulun and Isabella seemed to be tightly intertwined by the threads of fate, embarking on an unknown journey together. Along the way, Hu Yulun's gaze, as if drawn by an invisible magnetic force, couldn't help but steal glances at Isabella. In his eyes, gratitude flowed like a gentle stream, and admiration burned like a fervent flame, intertwined and shining brightly.
Hu Yulun often fell into thought, recalling Isabella's graceful figure and fearless courage during the battle, which stirred ripples in his heart. His lips would unconsciously curve upwards, revealing undeniable appreciation in his eyes.
Isabella, like a gentle breeze in springtime, revealed her rarely seen gentle side. Her steps were light, her movements agile, each one like a graceful dance step. When teaching Hu Yulun combat techniques, her eyes were focused and serious, and the sword in her hand danced like the wind, demonstrating the essentials of each movement for Hu Yulun.
"Watch carefully, Hu Yulun. On the edge of life and death, both skill and speed are essential," Isabella said.
When teaching him the ways of wilderness survival, Isabella would squat down, carefully examining the plants on the ground, patiently explaining which ones were edible and which were dangerous.
Whenever Hu Yulun was disheartened by his own mistakes, his face, which was originally full of energy, would instantly be shrouded in frustration. Isabella would always approach him with light steps, reach out her slender but strong hand, and gently pat his broad shoulder, softly encouraging him, "Don't be discouraged, you're doing great." Her voice was like the sound of heaven, melodious and full of warmth and strength.
Hu Yulun looked up at Isabella, and the light of hope rekindled in his eyes, "Isabella, I will work even harder."
Under her encouraging words, which were as gentle as spring rain, Hu Yulun seemed to have been blessed with a mysterious power. He trained even harder, constantly breaking through his limits. Every swing of his Longsword, every run, was filled with firm determination. His progress was rapid, as if he wanted to make up for all his previous shortcomings.
In this long journey, their figures accompanied each other, and their hearts drew closer and closer without them realizing it.
As the days passed, the tacit understanding between Hu Yulun and Isabella deepened. They felt the gifts and trials of nature together in every sunrise and sunset.
One time, while they were crossing a rapid river, Hu Yulun lost his balance due to the water current. Isabella didn't hesitate to reach out and firmly grabbed him.
"Hold my hand, Hu Yulun!" Isabella shouted, her arms trembling slightly from the force.
Hu Yulun, with Isabella's help, finally steadied himself and climbed onto the opposite bank.
"Thank you, Isabella. I don't know what I would have done without you," Hu Yulun said, gasping for breath, his eyes filled with gratitude.
Isabella smiled at him. "We're partners. This is what I should do."
Another day, they were caught in a storm in a desolate valley. The wind howled, and lightning flashed, forcing them to find shelter.
Hu Yulun spotted a cave. He grabbed Isabella's hand and rushed inside. The cave was dark and damp, but it offered temporary protection from the wind and rain.
"I wonder when this rain will stop," Hu Yulun said, gazing at the rain outside, his brow furrowed with worry.
Isabella leaned gently against Hu Yulun. "It's okay. As long as we're together, we'll get through it."
During that stormy night, their hearts seemed to draw closer.
After the rain, they continued their journey. Along the way, Hu Yulun and Isabella shared their dreams and hopes.
"When all this is over, I want to find a quiet place and live a peaceful life," Hu Yulun said.
Isabella's eyes sparkled with longing. "That would be wonderful."
Unknowingly, they had already walked through many difficult paths, and the road ahead was still stretching out beneath their feet…
In their future travels, they arrived at a lively town. The town was bustling with people, full of the breath of life.
Hu Yulun looked around curiously, while Isabella smiled and followed him.
"This place is different from anywhere we've been before," Hu Yulun said excitedly.
"Yes, but we can't stay long," Isabella reminded him.
However, fate seemed to enjoy playing tricks. Just as they were preparing to leave the town, Hu Yulun discovered his money pouch was missing.
"What do we do now?" Hu Yulun asked anxiously.
Isabella thought calmly for a moment. "Don't panic. Let's think about where we might have left it."
They carefully retraced their steps, but found nothing. Just then, a mysterious stranger appeared before them.
"I know what you're looking for," the stranger said in a low voice.
Hu Yulun and Isabella eyed him warily. "Who are you?"
The stranger smiled. "Relax. I can help you find the money pouch, but you have to agree to a condition."
Hu Yulun frowned. "What condition?"
The stranger leaned in close to them, whispering, "Help me complete a task."
Hu Yulun and Isabella exchanged a glance, and after a moment of hesitation, they ultimately agreed to the stranger's request.
The stranger led them to an ancient castle. "What you're looking for is inside, but be careful. It's full of danger."
Hu Yulun took a deep breath. "No matter what, we have to try."
Isabella nodded. "Yeah, together."
They held hands and bravely entered the castle...
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(End of Chapter)