CherrybellaQ

Gu Qingli, the heir to an ancient martial arts family in the modern world, unexpectedly finds herself transported to a mysterious, ancient continent. In this unfamiliar world, where martial prowess is revered above all else, she is initially seen as nothing more than a useless, good-for-nothing outcast. But what the world doesn't know is that within her lies the forgotten legacy of the Phoenix Fire Secret, an ancient and supreme martial art passed down through her bloodline.

Betrayed by those closest to her in her past life, Gu Qingli now embarks on a journey of survival and self-discovery. With an iron will and unwavering determination, she begins her ascent from the depths of despair, harnessing the forgotten power that flows through her veins. Each step she takes, every challenge she faces, only serves to unlock her true potential.

From a weak, underestimated girl to a formidable powerhouse, Gu Qingli’s transformation is nothing short of extraordinary. As her power grows, so too does her reputation. Her name spreads across the continent like wildfire, striking fear into the hearts of those who once mocked her.

But her path is not without obstacles. Treachery lurks around every corner, and her own blood relatives, consumed by greed and power, will stop at nothing to seize the Phoenix Fire Secret for themselves. As the battle between power, loyalty, and vengeance rages on, Gu Qingli must decide what kind of legacy she wishes to leave behind.

The tale unfolds as a fierce young woman, with the heart of a phoenix and the soul of a warrior, rises to the heavens, challenging both gods and men alike. With her eyes set on vengeance, redemption, and the ultimate mastery of the Phoenix Fire Secret, Gu Qingli will leave an indelible mark on this new world, soaring to unimaginable heights where even the sky itself trembles at her might.

This is the epic story of a woman’s strength, her rise from the ashes, and her journey to become the strongest force the world has ever known. Phoenix howls across the nine heavens—no one is safe from the wrath of Gu Qingli!

Gu Qingli, the daughter of a genius doctor

Gu Qingli paused for a brief moment, surprised by the belligerence that seemed to saturate the air of this place. The fervent gleam of battle-lust in Sikong Ran's eyes made it clear—he was ready to charge headfirst into a fight he knew he couldn't win.

"Let it go. You're no match for me," she said coolly. "I'd rather not accidentally cripple you."

"Young Master Sikong, allow me!" He Zhongyi could no longer tolerate anyone insulting Sikong Ran. He stepped forward, unsheathing the greatsword on his back and pointing it directly at Gu Qingli. The aura he exuded was so overwhelming it made the very air feel suffocating.

Sikong Ran, upon hearing Gu Qingli's dismissive words, felt a blaze of fury erupt within him, completely forgetting that he was the one who had provoked her in the first place.

Just as tensions teetered on the edge of violence, a calm voice dispersed the oppressive energy in the air like morning sunlight melting frost.

A tutor from the Holy Windcloud Academy stepped forward with a genial smile. "Let's not forget—this is the Academy's recruitment event. Let's all cool our tempers. Verbal sparring among the young is one thing, but let's not let emotions override reason."

Li Ke'er stepped forward with a sweet laugh, chiming in, "The tutor is right. Why resort to violence? Isn't the Youth Tournament only a month away? Then, Young Master Sikong may face Miss Qingli in a proper and honorable duel. Miss Qingli, you will represent the Gu family, won't you?"

Gu Qingli cast a frosty glance at Li Ke'er without uttering a word, but that look alone seemed to pierce right through her.

"Miss Li, you seem rather intrigued about whether I'll be participating."

Li Ke'er was briefly stunned, then forced a somewhat awkward smile. "Now that Miss Qingli has become the most gifted of her generation in the Gu family, it stands to reason you'll be competing. Am I wrong?"

Gu Qingli's penetrating gaze bore into her. "Miss Li, it seems you didn't quite catch what I said earlier. Are you afraid I'll ruin your chance at a top-three finish? Or do you simply hope to see Young Master Sikong defeat me before your very eyes?"

Compared to Sikong Ran, the pampered and arrogant scion, Gu Qingli found this serpentine beauty, Li Ke'er, far more loathsome.

Li Ke'er's delicate frame trembled slightly, and her eyes darted away. How could a twelve-year-old girl see through her so thoroughly? It was terrifying. If the Gu family truly nurtured someone like Gu Qingli, the Li family's status as second in the city might crumble beyond redemption.

She was caught in a storm of contradictions. On one hand, she had tried to diffuse the conflict because a fight was unlikely to occur today—and judging by Gu Qingli's strength, the outcome wouldn't be certain. Postponing the battle to the tournament would buy time for Sikong Ran to prepare, and with the City Lord's resources behind him, Gu Qingli would likely stand little chance then.

More importantly, her probing words were meant to confirm Gu Qingli's intentions. If she planned to compete, Li Ke'er would need to consult her elders to form a counter-strategy. If not, she could finally breathe easy.

Yet, Gu Qingli's words just now had stirred something darker within her—murderous intent. Whether or not the girl entered the tournament, she had to be eliminated before she grew stronger.

In Loulan City, she would not allow any woman to outshine her—especially not one from the Gu family.

"She will compete," Sikong Ran snarled, thoroughly provoked. His eyes locked on Gu Qingli with a feral gleam, and he licked his lips slowly, a bloodthirsty smile spreading across his face. "And if you don't… then I'll have no choice but to take it out on him."

His gaze slithered past her to rest on Gu Qingche, standing behind her. The cruel grin on his lips deepened—he knew full well just how much Gu Qingli cared for her brother.

Chapter 37: To Fight or Not