Wu Zheng's gaze flickered toward the girl who emerged from the dense foliage. Instinctively, he activated his Spirit Lens, his eyes sharpening as they settled on her. Third stage of Golden Core Realm. The realization didn't surprise him, though it did stir a sense of caution. I should have been more vigilant. Those guards hiding nearby... I would have detected them if I had scanned the area sooner.
With a subtle breath, Wu Zheng cast his senses outward, feeling the faint qi signatures of two more presences nearby. Though hidden in the thick bushes, their cultivation was laid bare before him—both were stronger than they appeared. He tightened his grip on his sword, though his expression remained composed.
"Are you alone?" His voice was calm, though his gaze remained fixed on her. "And you do realize this is Wu clan territory, don't you?"
The girl, still wearing a smile, seemed unfazed by his direct tone. "Oh, the Wu clan?" She tilted her head playfully. "I've heard of them." Her voice carried a confidence that didn't waver, even as she called out into the bushes. "You can come out now. No need to hide."
Wu Zheng raised an eyebrow as two guards stepped out from the shadows. Their presence had been carefully concealed, but to his Spirit Lens, their qi panels were clear as day. Before they could address him, Qing Rui leaned in toward one of the guards, whispering something into his ear.
Wu Zheng's lips twitched with amusement. Does she really think I can't hear her?
"Miss," the guard murmured, though not quietly enough to avoid Wu Zheng's keen ears. "This is indeed Wu clan territory, ruled by Wu Cheng. They're a high-ranking clan in the region."
Qing Rui nodded as if she had known all along. She spun back around with a satisfied expression, returning to her spot with a light step. "Oh, Wu Cheng? Isn't he the clan leader?" Her tone was airy, as though she had merely recalled a forgotten fact.
Wu Zheng couldn't help but shake his head. Her ignorance was almost amusing, but the confidence she exuded kept him on guard. He remained silent, watching as she continued with her carefree demeanor.
"Well, then," Qing Rui began again, her voice carrying a light, almost playful tone. "Since this is your clan's land, I suppose the beast belongs to you as well. But..." She glanced toward the forest, her eyes glinting with excitement. "How about this? I'll fight the beast—after all, I'm at the 3rd stage of the Golden Core Realm. You can take the materials afterward. You're only at the 9th stage of Foundation Establishment, right? Your chances against such a creature would be… well, slim."
He raised an eyebrow, feigning a hint of surprise. "But you're so young... already at the 3rd stage of Golden Core?"
Qing Rui's smile widened, clearly pleased by the compliment. Her eyes sparkled with amusement as if she was enjoying the praise. "Indeed! Quite impressive, right?" She puffed out her chest slightly, her confidence radiating in every word. "I've been cultivating diligently for many years now. It's only natural I've reached this level."
Wu Zheng nodded, though his mind was focused elsewhere. She's strong, but reckless. Her offer seems genuine, but she could also be testing me. Still, if she's only interested in the fight and not the beast itself, this might work to my advantage.
After a moment of silence, he let out a small sigh, playing along with her self-assured attitude. "It's a tempting offer, and I appreciate the help. If you're truly only after the battle, I won't stand in your way."
Qing Rui clapped her hands together, looking delighted with herself. "Perfect! I knew you'd see reason." She flashed him a playful wink. "Besides, wouldn't want you getting hurt. You're only Foundation Establishment after all, and that beast is far above your league."
Wu Zheng gave her a small, polite smile, masking his thoughts. If only you knew...
As Qing Rui turned to the path ahead, her guards falling in line behind her, Wu Zheng silently scanned their surroundings again. His caution never wavered. Even though Qing Rui seemed confident and perhaps a bit oblivious to the finer details of the Wu clan's territory, her power was undeniable. And despite her cheerful demeanor, he wasn't about to let his guard down.
"Shall we?" Qing Rui gestured forward with a flourish, her brown hair catching the fading light as it streamed down her back, her blue eyes gleaming with mischief.
Wu Zheng nodded, but he couldn't shake the feeling that this encounter was far from ordinary. Something about this girl... I need to stay sharp.