CHAPTER 501: CHAPTER 274: WORSHIP FIRE SECT LEADER_2

He activated the Shadow Concealment Skill, his figure instantly disappearing from the spot and reappearing behind a member of the Holy Demon Clan, the Jade Maiden Sword flashed coldly, slicing the opponent into two.

The numbers of the Holy Demon Clan seemed boundless, as if never-ending. Although Gu Sheng and his three companions fought with unparalleled bravery, they gradually began to feel the strain.

At that moment, Jiang Yunfei suddenly shouted, "Gu Sheng, use the Seven Immortals Eight Trigrams Array to seal the entrance!"

Gu Sheng heard his words, and his heart stirred.

He swiftly joined forces with Princess Zishuang and Jiang Yunfei, deploying the Seven Immortals Eight Trigrams Array to seal the entrance to the Five Elements World.

"Hahaha, do you think this will stop us?" A leader of the Holy Demon Clan sneered, "The power of our Holy Demon Clan is beyond your imagination!"

With a wave of his hand, countless members of the Holy Demon Clan charged at the Seven Immortals Eight Trigrams Array, releasing thunderous roars.

The power of the Array was immense, repelling them one by one.

Gu Sheng and his companions seized the opportunity to withdraw from the world of the Holy Demon Clan, returning along the path to the Five Elements World.

They knew that this time, not only had they failed to obtain the Dragon Pearl, but they had also provoked the relentless pursuit of the Holy Demon Clan.

The entire Red Cloud Continent once again fell under the shroud of crisis.

In the days that followed, Da Liang’s lands were steeped in a somber atmosphere of impending conflict.

Although Princess Zishuang had placed the Big Dragon Ball in the center of the Dragon Nest Keystone, allowing the withered vegetation to spring back to life, that vitality was still far less flourishing than it had been in the days of Chu Country.

On the earth, greenery gradually spread, and the once-dry rivers began to flow with clear streams.

Animals that had migrated due to the deteriorating environment now returned to this land.

Grizzly bears roamed the dense forests, Arctic wolves galloped across the grasslands, and those nearly faded breaths of life were rejuvenated under the nourishment of the Big Dragon Ball.

Da Liang’s unification did not bring true tranquility.

Though the people began to live peacefully, the controversies and grievances of the previous reign still lingered deeply in their hearts.

In streets and alleys, people fervently debated, expressing both reverence and gratitude towards Princess Zishuang and Gu Sheng, alongside discontent and concern over the Emperor of Da Liang.

"I’ve heard Princess Zishuang placed the Big Dragon Ball in the center of the Dragon Nest Keystone. Truly an act of immense merit!" An old man remarked wistfully.

"Indeed! If not for the Princess’s intervention, this land would likely have long turned into a barren wasteland," another person echoed.

Some, however, were anxious: "Although the Princess saved this land, the Emperor of Da Liang’s ambition grows by the day, and I fear the future may hold even more strife."

"Hmph, that old Emperor only knows indulgence and pleasure—what does he understand about ruling a country?" A young man said angrily.

At that moment, a man of letters slowly approached, holding a feather fan, shaking his head as he spoke:

"Heaven and earth lack compassion, treating all creatures as straw dogs. Though the Emperor of Da Liang has unified the realm, his reign resembles tyranny, unbearable to endure."

"And what of Princess Zishuang and Gu Sheng?" Someone eagerly asked.

The scholar smiled faintly:

"The two of them are the saviors of Da Liang. Princess Zishuang possesses the Big Dragon Ball, capable of saving all beings; while Gu Sheng is a brave and fearless warrior, able to defend against external foes. Their presence symbolizes hope for Da Liang."

The crowd nodded in agreement, admiration towards Princess Zishuang and Gu Sheng radiating from their expressions.

They knew that as long as these two heroes were present, Da Liang could ward off any external invasion and continue its prosperity and peace.

But the Emperor of Da Liang would not let them rest easily.

He had been secretly watching Princess Zishuang and Gu Sheng’s movements, these two people always left him feeling uneasy.

Princess Zishuang sat gracefully in the garden of the princess’s residence, moonlight cascading like water over her porcelain-like face, making her look even more exquisite and enchanting.

Her mind often drifted back to the moments shared with Gu Sheng during their dual cultivation in the mystical formation of the Secret Valley. Those experiences had been dreamlike, indescribably wondrous.

"If only..."

Princess Zishuang sighed softly, an inexplicable tinge of melancholy overcoming her heart.

She understood that as a princess, burdened with the empire’s destiny, her private feelings with Gu Sheng, beautiful as they were, ultimately could not withstand the allure of the throne and power.

Whenever the night fell silent, she could not help but imagine: If she were just an ordinary citizen, how wonderful life would be.

She could roam the world with her beloved, find a ten-mile peach blossom paradise, and spend the rest of their days together.

But reality was always harsh, and Princess Zishuang knew she couldn’t linger in her fantasies.

The Fire-Worshipping Sect still posed a threat to the empire. She had to find a solution, and in her heart, Gu Sheng was the hope she relied upon.

Thus, Princess Zishuang decided to meet with Gu Sheng once more.

The two of them reunited in the secret chamber of the princess’s residence, drinking and laughing, as the atmosphere gradually grew warm and intimate.

"Gu Sheng, do you remember the moment we joined forces within the Mystical Turtle Eight Trigrams Formation?"

Princess Zishuang raised her cup and looked expectantly at Gu Sheng, her eyes shimmering with light.

Gu Sheng smiled faintly, the Jade Maiden Sword in his hand trembled slightly, as if responding to its master’s intent. He nodded and replied, "Of course I remember. That day’s scene, I’ll never forget in this lifetime."

Princess Zishuang felt a surge of joy in her heart; she knew she had successfully evoked Gu Sheng’s memories.

Taking a deep breath, she drained the wine in her cup. Slowly, she extended her hands, and the Zishuang Treasure Sword blossomed with dazzling light in her grasp.

"Gu Sheng, could you let Zishuang experience the marvel of that day once more?"

Princess Zishuang’s voice carried a mix of trembling and anticipation.

Gu Sheng said nothing; he simply approached Princess Zishuang silently, and the two embraced each other tightly.

The Jade Maiden Sword and Zishuang Treasure Sword intertwined, weaving brilliant trails of sword light in the air, blending the silhouettes of the two into one.

As their swordsmanship unfolded, their breaths began to meld into one.

It was as if they had entered a wondrous world devoid of earthly distractions, a realm filled only with deep affection for each other.

Time seemed to freeze in that moment. The two entered into a dual cultivation illusion realm.

In that surreal world, they held each other close, feeling each other’s heartbeat and breath.

"Gu Sheng, I love you."

Princess Zishuang whispered softly into Gu Sheng’s ear, her voice brimming with genuine emotion.

Gu Sheng didn’t respond with words; he only held Princess Zishuang tightly, as if pouring all his strength into protecting her.

After a long time, the two finally separated.

Princess Zishuang’s face was tinged with a blush, while Gu Sheng gazed at her with eyes full of gentleness and tenderness.

Illusions are ultimately illusions, and the two finally emerged from the realm.

Emerging from the illusion, Princess Zishuang gently brushed her hair away from her forehead, her gaze carrying a hint of fatigue—but more than that, determination and resolve.

She looked up at the sky; the night had deepened, stars dotted the firmament, and indeed, the hour was late.

Turning to her side, she looked at Gu Sheng, who stood upright like a pine tree, her eyes flickering with complex emotions.

There was admiration for his abilities, trust in his loyalty, and that faint, nearly hidden affection.

"Gu Sheng, what is your view on the matter of the Fire-Worshipping Sect?"

Princess Zishuang’s voice was low and steady, carrying an undeniable authority.

Gu Sheng nodded slightly and replied, "Princess, the Fire-Worshipping Sect is indeed a threat. Their covert manipulation of forces and their watchful eyes on the empire is something we must find a way to counter."

Princess Zishuang nodded in agreement, her eyes revealing a trace of approval.

She continued, "I’ve decided to have you infiltrate the Fire-Worshipping Sect, to incapacitate their organization—or better yet, take it over for my use."

Gu Sheng’s eyes flashed with determination upon hearing this.

He had long heard of the notorious acts of the Fire-Worshipping Sect and harbored the intent to eliminate them. Hearing the princess’s decision only ignited his resolve further.

"Rest assured, Princess, Gu Sheng will not fail to complete this mission!" Gu Sheng said firmly, his voice strong and unwavering.

Princess Zishuang looked at him, her eyes softened with affection.

She understood that the task was both formidable and perilous, but she had faith in Gu Sheng’s capability.

At the same time, she knew this mission carried their shared purpose and bore the weight of their profound bond.

"Gu Sheng, be careful on this venture. I will support you from behind; if you need assistance, don’t hesitate to seek me out."

Princess Zishuang’s words were gentle yet filled with concern.

Gu Sheng raised his head and gazed into her bright eyes, an unmistakable warmth rising in his heart.