Chapter 1611: Deep Love

City of Southwind, House Luolan's old manor

𝗳𝐫𝚎𝗲𝚠𝚎𝗯𝕟𝐨𝘃𝚎𝗹.𝗰𝗼𝗺

In recent days, the old manor had become the hottest location in the southern region of the Xia Kingdom. Every single powerhouse was trying every possible method to approach them and express their goodwill.

There was no other choice—Li Luo's return was absolutely terrifying.

His reinforcements surpassed the entirety of the Xia Kingdom's combined forces. If such military might became entrenched in the southern region, everyone knew who would become the true master of the land. Thus, if Li Luo merely showed a hint of interest in the territory of the Xia Kingdom, the royal court would undoubtedly splinter into pieces.

No matter how much the First Princess tried to win the people's hearts and minds, it would all be meaningless before indomitable might. However, Li Luo truly had no interest in it. Thus, in response to the goodwill expressed by the numerous powers of the Xia Kingdom, he simply ordered Cai Wei to reject them all. House Luolan was not planning to welcome any new guests—only old friends were allowed to come and go freely.

As night fell over the City of Southwind, Li Luo stood atop a pavilion, gazing at a group of familiar figures: Yu Lang, Bai DouDou, Bai Mengmeng, the First Princess, Chi Chan, and the rest were all there. These old friends would often visit the old manor. After discussing future plans, they would enjoy a sumptuous banquet and reminisce over old times. As Li Luo looked into the distance, his enhanced vision allowed him to take in the entire outline of the City of Southwind. The familiar streets and buildings emerged from the depths of his memory. His lips curled into a gentle smile.

Then he heard light footsteps behind him, followed by a familiar fragrance. Even without turning, he knew it was Jiang Qing'e.

“Sister Qing’e.” Li Luo grinned, pointing at a particular main street in the distance. “Do you remember during my birthday all those years ago, you came back from the Astral Sage College to pick me up and take me home?”

That particular street led to Southwind Academy's gates.

Jiang Qing’e stood beside him. Her eyes, more beautiful than the setting sun, were fixed on the silhouette of the academy at the end of the street. A hint of a smile appeared on her elegant face.

"Mhm." She slowly nodded.

That day, amidst countless astonished gazes, she had stood in front of a carriage and watched a slightly downcast young man walking out of Southwind Academy. It was like the start of an epic tale. This was an insignificant little town in comparison to the inner divine continent, but to Jiang Qing'e, it was filled with irreplaceable emotions.

She knew that the memories she had forged here were precious.

Li Luo could sense that ever since Jiang Qing'e returned to the old manor, her demeanor had softened. There was always a faint smile lingering on her lips, and when Li Luo and the rest had drinks, she would occasionally join in. Anyone could feel the joy radiating from her.

He reached out and grasped Jiang Qing'e's slender, smooth hand. She tilted her head and lightly rested it on Li Luo's shoulder. As the setting sun bathed her lips with a reddish glow, she playfully blew into Li Luo's ear, tickling him.

"Li Luo, I'm so happy to be back," she said softly.

She took in the view of the old buildings around the manor. Many years ago, when they were still young, countless little stories had played out here. Each and every one had been imprinted in the depths of her heart.

Li Luo Luo smiled. "I'm also very happy to be here. Don't worry, I'll protect this place properly. Our most cherished memories are here. When we finally rescue the old man, we will come back and live here together."

Jiang Qing'e smiled sweetly as anticipation appeared in her molten-gold eyes. The two snuggled together and continued to chat about the past.

When the sun was fully set and the skies were dark, a rare hint of shyness appeared in her gorgeous eyes. She hesitated for a few moments before whispering something into Li Luo's ear. The man was taken aback, unsure if he had heard correctly. Then he snapped back to attention with eyes filled with ecstasy. Was today his lucky day? This was the first time Sister Qing'e had taken the initiative. As expected, when love ran this deep, even the calm and composed Jiang Qing'e couldn't hold back.

Seeing her reddening cheeks made his heart pound madly. What else could he say at this point? There were still aspects of the Nine Dragons Paragon Emperor Seal that he hadn’t figured out, so he had to be a diligent student tonight.

He bent down slightly, slipping his arms underneath her legs and picking her up. Burying his head in her swan-like neck, he took in two deep breaths and laughed joyously as he carried her into the pavilion. Yellow lights glowed within, casting a warm light.

Li Luo hugged Jiang Qing'e as they walked into their room, but then he stopped in his tracks.

Jiang Qing'e's shy, golden eyes froze and turned ice-cold.

Bang!

A moment later, majestic amounts of light resonant power poured out of her and she transformed into a beam of light. The crimson-gold spear was already in her hand, stabbing at a shadowy figure with tremendous force.

The shadowy figure squirmed, and a staff wrapped in a gloomy aura swung out in response, colliding with the spear. The void shook violently, but before the shockwaves could destroy the surroundings, Li Luo quickly sealed off the area. Otherwise, the old manor would have been reduced to rubble.

When the bright light illuminated the room, Li Luo could see who Jiang Qing'e was fighting. It was a tall and slender figure with black snake scales covering her skin, adhering to it like a tightly fitted suit of armor. Her delicate body and graceful curves were on full display as a result. Her expression was indifferent but beautiful. Several scales dotted her cheeks, lending her an ethereal but demonic beauty. In her hand was the Aquamarine Bamboo Python Staff, which had blocked Jiang Qing'e's spear.

The incredibly pure light resonant power had caused her scales to melt slightly, but she didn't seem to be in pain. Instead, her dark green eyes were filled only with coldness.

As the ladies locked eyes, murderous intent arose from both parties. Terrifying energy fluctuations surged out of them.

"Wait!” Li Luo swiftly stepped forward, preventing the situation from escalating. He looked at the enchanting lady in astonishment.

"Cousin Lingjing, why are you here?" he blurted out.