Xu Yuehuai's heart was heavy, filled with anxiety and unease. She knew time was of the essence, and Zi'ang's life was slipping away bit by bit. She kept telling herself to stay calm, to be resolute, and to find that Jade Pool Immortal Herb!
However, just as Qi Guze and Xu Yuehuai were following closely behind the Ghost Doctor, yearning for the Jade Pool Immortal Herb, they were suddenly blocked by a group of soldiers.
Who exactly are you people?
"stop--!"
"You're not allowed to go any further!"
These soldiers, dressed in uniform, with long swords at their waists, stood in a row in front of everyone with serious expressions, like an insurmountable barrier.
Their eyes were sharp as they warily observed Qi Guze and his group, seemingly trying to guess where they came from.
Qi Guze immediately shielded Xu Yuehuai behind him, his eyes fixed firmly on the soldiers in front of him, ready to fight at any moment.
His hands were clenched into fists, his knuckles slightly pale, revealing his inner emotions.
Xu Yuehuai clung tightly to Qi Guze, her eyes filled with panic. She bit her lower lip, trying to hide her fear.
The Ghost Doctor stepped forward and said in Dongsang language, "We are locals of Dongsang!"
His voice was calm and firm, without a trace of panic. His gaze was fixed on the leader of the soldiers, his eyes carrying a hint of authority.
Upon hearing the Ghost Doctor's words, a hint of doubt flashed in the soldiers' eyes. Looking at the luxurious clothes worn by Qi Guze and the others, and hearing the Ghost Doctor's fluent Dongsang language, they couldn't help but murmur to themselves.
Could these people actually be high-ranking officials or nobles?
They exchanged glances, unsure of what to do.
The leading soldier frowned, scrutinized them for a moment, and finally spoke: "I apologize, sirs."
He waved his hand, signaling the other soldiers to make way.
Qi Guze, Xu Yuehuai, and the others breathed a sigh of relief, their tension easing slightly. They quickly passed through the soldiers' blockade and continued towards the Jade Pool Immortal Herb.
With their departure, the soldiers returned to their normal work routines.
They watched Qi Guze and the others disappear from sight before resuming their patrol.
Qi Guze and Xu Yuehuai continued on their way, thinking they would not encounter any more obstacles. However, they had not gone far when a military officer suddenly approached from the front.
The officer seemed to be discussing something with the soldiers. He had a serious face and sharp eyes, which made him intimidating.
Qi Guze's heart sank; he sensed something was wrong. He immediately put his arm around Xu Yuehuai's waist and whispered, "Yuehuai, we need to leave here quickly."
Xu Yuehua nodded. She sensed Qi Guze's tension and realized that something was wrong.
Just then, the group of soldiers suddenly charged towards them. Their faces were filled with fierce expressions, and the weapons in their hands gleamed in the sunlight.
Qi Guze's heart tightened. He used his lightness skill to quickly escape with Xu Yuehuai. His steps were light and fast, as if a gust of wind swept across the ground.
Xu Yuehuai nestled tightly in his arms, feeling his breath and strength.
Meanwhile, the Ghost Doctor and his men scattered, trying to shake off the soldiers' pursuit.
"Hurry up! Split up and meet at the destination!" Qi Guze shouted, his voice filled with both anxiety and determination.
He knew this was his only chance to escape. Xu Yuehuai looked up at Qi Guze and saw his determined eyes and tight lips.
She knew he would protect her and would never let her get hurt.
They ran wildly, through the woods and over the hills.
Qi Guze's speed increased, as if he wanted to leave all obstacles behind.
Xu Yuehuai gripped his clothes tightly, feeling his body temperature and heartbeat.
However, the soldiers didn't seem to intend to let them go. They chased after them, shouting all the way.
"Stop right there, you in front!"
"This is our Dongsang Kingdom's territory. You outsiders, don't even think about secretly invading our country!"
"If you don't stop, we'll attack you!"
"Don't blame us if you get hurt!"
These soldiers did not pursue the Ghost Doctor, but instead chased after Qi Guze and the other outsiders from the other three kingdoms.
Qi Guze knew in his heart that he had to come up with a way to get rid of these soldiers' pursuit.
Suddenly, he saw a stream ahead. Overjoyed, he immediately grabbed Xu Yuehuai and rushed towards it. They leaped into the water, and the cool current instantly enveloped them.
Qi Guze felt his speed had slowed down significantly, but he still swam forward desperately.
Xu Yuehuai followed closely behind, holding Qi Ziang in her arms, while Qi Guze also kept protecting the mother and son.
Her heart was filled with both fear and anticipation, because they were now very close to the location of the Jade Pool Immortal Herb.
After swimming for a while, they finally heard the soldiers' shouts gradually fading into the distance.
Qi Guze breathed a sigh of relief; he knew they were safe for the time being. They climbed ashore, soaking wet. Qi Guze put his arm around Xu Yuehuai's shoulder and whispered, "We're safe for now."
Xu Yuehua nodded, knowing that many dangers awaited her and Qi Guze.
But Xu Yuehuai believed that as long as Qi Guze was by her side, everything would be fine!
"Let's hurry to where the Jade Pool Immortal Herb is!" Xu Yuehuai was very anxious about Qi Ziang's condition.
Qi Guze said, "Let's wait until our clothes are dry before we move!"
Left with no other choice, Xu Yuehuai could only nod in agreement. Her eyes were full of worry as she looked at the unconscious Qi Ziang, her heart filled with mixed emotions.
Qi Guze surveyed the area and quickly found a large, sheltered rock. He turned to Xu Yuehuai and said, "Stay here and don't wander off. If anything happens, shout my name."
Xu Yuehua nodded vigorously, knowing that Qi Guze had already made the best arrangements.
Qi Guze's figure disappeared into the night. Xu Yuehuai hugged Qi Ziang tightly, her eyes firm yet gentle.
She gently stroked Qi Ziang's cheek, tears streaming down her face. Her heart was filled with helplessness, but she knew she couldn't give up; she had to be strong for Qi Ziang's sake.
"Zi'ang, Mother will find the Jade Pool Immortal Herb soon, just hang in there a little longer!"
Qi Ziang seemed to hear what she said; his eyelashes trembled as if in response.
Time passed by, the wind was biting, but Xu Yuehuai's heart grew warmer and warmer.
That was the warmth Qi Guze gave her; his image shone brightly in her heart.
After an unknown amount of time, Qi Guze returned. He was carrying a pile of dry firewood, his eyes full of concern.
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