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 Qinglin lowered her head, her timid demeanor a clear sign of guilt and unease.

Li Ke'er, on the other hand, was far more practiced in masking her emotions. A faint smile played across her charming face, yet within the folds of her wide sleeves, her delicate hands were clenched tightly, nails digging so deep into her palms they left trails of blood.

"You must be mistaken, Young Master Sikong," she said sweetly. "So many of us witnessed it—Miss Qingli agreed to the spar of her own volition. No one forced her."

As the esteemed daughter of the Li family, gifted in both beauty and talent, Li Ke'er had long enjoyed the admiration of many. Though she had always sought to win Sikong Ran's favor, he had never spared her more than a passing glance.

"But when did Young Master Sikong and Miss Qingli grow so close?" she continued with a coy smile. "Weren't you two at odds during the last selection at Fengyun Academy?"

Her words, honeyed and laced with intent, were anything but casual.

She believed Sikong Ran's defense of Gu Qingli today was merely because they stood on the City Lord's turf—and Sikong Ran had always ruled his domain with iron will.

Given the friction between them during the academy selection, she doubted he would truly stand by Gu Qingli.

At most, the incident would be smoothed over without further consequence.

Just as she was about to smirk in satisfaction, Sikong Ran's next words struck her dumb.

"Utter nonsense! You repugnant woman, spare us your vile insinuations. When have Miss Qingli and I ever been at odds?"

He cast a swift, sidelong glance at Gu Qingli, only relaxing slightly when he saw no trace of mockery in her expression.

"Hmph. If there were no one manipulating events, who would dare attempt murder within the domain of the City Lord's Manor? Heh, the ugly always make the most mischief."

Sikong Ran spoke with open contempt, fixing his gaze squarely upon Li Ke'er as he delivered his verbal blows.

Even someone as calculating as Li Ke'er couldn't help the chill that spread across her once-alluring face.

She, a renowned beauty of peerless grace, had just been branded an "ugly woman." The insult burned like flame.

Seeing her rendered speechless, Sikong Ran curled his lip in boredom and turned toward Gu Qingli, whose expression remained serene and untouched by the chaos.

"Miss Qingli, are you all right? Did you sustain any injuries?"

A faint smile lifted his exquisitely handsome features, his devilish charm glowing with quiet brilliance.

Gu Qingli raised her brows slightly, surprised at his uncharacteristically kind demeanor. It seemed the boy still remembered the debt he owed her.

Sikong Ran grinned broadly as he took in the sight of the young woman, her robes fluttering lightly, her face untouched by rouge yet radiant with inner brilliance. Had his father not kept him under strict training, he would have sought her out long ago.

"Now that you're here," Gu Qingli said calmly, "I trust the matter will be handled properly. I'll take my leave and escort my brother Qingche—he's injured."

Her gaze swept over Li Ke'er and Gu Qinglin, a glint of icy light flickering in her eyes.

"All right then. Rest assured—I'll make sure this is thoroughly dealt with!"

Sikong Ran's eyes lingered on Gu Qingli with reluctant fondness as he pounded his chest in a solemn promise.

The crowd stood in stunned silence, unable to comprehend how the fearsome, domineering Sikong Ran had transformed into such a docile, obliging figure in front of Gu Qingli.

Was this truly the same Sikong Ran?

Gu Qingli was not ungrateful. Since Sikong Ran had extended goodwill, she was willing to accept it.

Besides, while the young man was undoubtedly proud and a touch unruly, she found his temperament surprisingly agreeable.

Chapter 98 Unexpected