《Fierce Love: Bringing Wife Home》


 Chapter 1 - 1 Guardian

    ?1: Guardian 1: Guardian Outside the cemetery in the suburbs of Luoli City, a girl with beautiful, long, jet-black hair was dressed in black casual wear, standing tall with a straight back.


    Her every move and gesture exuded a natural and contented grace.


    Even in stillness, her charm was captivating.


    Gu Xiaoxi placed a bunch of white chrysanthemums on her mother¡¯s tombstone.


    ¡°Mom, rest assured, I will take good care of myself.¡± Gu Xiaoxi kowtowed to the tombstone and turned to walk down the hill.


    By then, dusk was nearing, and the golden sunlight made the tombstones on the hillside glisten.


    Gu Xiaoxi descended the hill and sat at the deserted bus stop, waiting for the bus.


    Suddenly, a jarring screech of brakes pierced the air.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked up curiously and saw four or five black luxury cars blocking a deep green military vehicle, JP80.


    In the blink of an eye, eight stocky men, armed with handguns, stepped out of the luxury cars and slowly approached the JP80.


    From where Gu Xiaoxi stood, she could clearly see a man in military uniform sitting in the driver¡¯s seat of JP80.


    His face was smeared with blood, obscuring his features, but the vaguely discernible contours of his face suggested a remarkable bearing.


    ¡°Quan Shaoqing, you are done for!¡± the leader of the men in black snarled with a fierce smile, his handgun ready to pull the trigger.


    Meanwhile, the man inside the vehicle was as pale as paper at the corners of his mouth, yet his expression was unusually cold, staring at the eight men surrounding him, his deep and starry eyes suddenly flashing with a cold light.


    ¡°Hmph!


    Before I die, I will see that you all are brought to justice,¡± he declared.


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes, her gaze intense.


    It was apparent that Quan Shaoqing had been shot in the shoulder, as his military green jacket was soaked with a large patch of blood.


    Despite this, his moves were extremely tricky.


    He managed to dodge the bullets, quickly crawled out of the car window, threw a punch with his left hand, flipped backward with his tall body, and performed the movements seamlessly, agile as a leopard.


    In just a few exchanges, he had knocked all eight men in black to the ground.


    Gu Xiaoxi watched, speechless.


    Was this man even human?


    His moves were swift, accurate, and ruthless; Gu Xiaoxi hadn¡¯t been able to catch several of them before she saw the men in black floored, coughing up blood, and fainting.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked on admiringly at the man not far away, who stood tall, his military green silhouette against the afternoon sun, casting a majestic profile akin to that of the War God, inspiring awe and reverence.


    Gu Xiaoxi thought that might be the end of it, but from the foremost black luxury car, an obese middle-aged man alighted once again.


    The middle-aged man held a gun aimed at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s head, ¡°You¡¯re at your limit.


    Quan Shaoqing, even deploying your entire unit wouldn¡¯t be enough to catch me,¡± he said.


    Quan Shaoqing clutched his chest with one hand, his fingers clenched so hard that his nails dug into his flesh, the pain keeping him barely conscious.


    Even if he had just one breath left, he was determined to put the drug lord in front of him behind bars.


    Yet, indeed, he was out of strength; due to excessive blood loss, his consciousness was slowly slipping away, even now he was struggling to hold on.


    As the drug lord Zhang San was about to pull the trigger, Quan Shaoqing felt that even taking a single step was difficult.


    Was this how he was going to die?


    A murderous intent flashed in Quan Shaoqing¡¯s eyes as he drew a dagger from his bosom.


    Even in death, he would take these criminals down with him.


    ¡°Hahaha!


    The much-revered General of the Z Division is just this after all, Quan Shaoqing.


    Go die for me!¡± Zhang San laughed maniacally, looking at Quan Shaoqing as though he were already a dead man.


    However, before his finger could pull the trigger, a large rock fell from the sky and smashed heavily onto his head.


    Blood gushed out from the bald spot on his head like a fountain.


    Gu Xiaoxi dusted off the stone debris from her hands, stood with her hands on her hips, and looked at the drug lord Zhang San, who was slowly falling to the ground.


    Her beautiful eyes curved into a playful arc, ¡°I¡¯ve been watching from the side all along, and you didn¡¯t even consider me a factor.


    Bullying a people¡¯s hero, you deserved to have a big rock fall on you from the sky.¡±


    In the end, she made a funny face at the Zhang San, whose eyes hadn¡¯t yet closed in death.


    Under the setting sun, Quan Shaoqing watched the girl¡¯s elongated silhouette and that cute, mischievous face.


    The man, who had been expressionless, curved his lips into a faint smile, casting a meaningful glance at Gu Xiaoxi.


    Ultimately, the dagger fell from his hand, he lost his strength, and collapsed on the ground.


    *


    One week later, at the largest Military Region Hospital in A City.


    In a high-end VIP ward, the man leaned back on the hospital bed, holding a stack of documents.


    ¡°Superior officer, are you really going to be Miss Gu¡¯s guardian?¡± Lin Mi was utterly baffled.


    Quan Shaoqing, who only ever caught criminals and defended the nation, never meddling in other affairs, was now showing interest in an orphan.

 Chapter 2 - 2 Guardian

    ?2: Guardian 2: Guardian ¡°Bring her here!¡± Quan Shaoqing closed the file, a charming smile spreading across his handsome face.


    He looked out at the brilliant sunshine, his eyes like crystals condensed upon an iceberg, dazzlingly bright.


    ¡®My sister has been watching by my side, completely ignoring me.¡¯ Every time he thought of Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s words, he couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    Such a courageous girl.


    It was lucky that she had boldly stepped forward during that critical moment, allowing him to dodge a bullet.


    Lin Mi gaped in shock.


    Because it was the first time she had seen Quan Shaoqing smile.


    His smile could overthrow all living beings, enchanting and casual, and although the curvature of his lips was slight, it was unforgettable, captivating.


    ¡°You look very nice when you smile, sir.


    You should smile more often,¡± Lin Mi teased.


    ¡°Oh?


    Do I?


    Did I smile?¡± The curve of Quan Shaoqing¡¯s mouth disappeared in an instant, his lips thinning out, resuming his usual overbearing demeanor.


    Lin Mi touched her nose sulkily, as if she hadn¡¯t spoken, and quickly turned to attend to her business.


    Gu Xiaoxi, father unknown.


    She had relied solely on her mother since childhood.


    A month ago, her mother passed away in a car accident, leaving her an orphan.


    Fortunately, her mother had been in the antique business and had left her enough money to squander until she graduated from college.


    Lin Mi, holding the file, found Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s apartment.


    At that moment, Gu Xiaoxi was excitedly holding the acceptance letter from BD Film and Television Academy in City A.


    Once in there, she could become a big star in the future.


    That was her lifelong dream, encouraged by her mother; she was determined to make a name for herself one day.


    Of course, she didn¡¯t know that a scheming man had already snuffed out her dream of stardom in its cradle.


    Meanwhile, her home, silent since her mother¡¯s passing, was suddenly jolted by the sound of the doorbell.


    ¡°Who is it?¡± Gu Xiaoxi opened the door excitedly.


    Standing outside was a man in his twenties, dressed in a military uniform, looking dashing and alert.


    ¡°Miss Gu Xiaoxi, we are from the capital.


    There are some matters that require your presence, so please accompany us,¡± Lin Mi said as kindly as possible, not wanting to scare Gu Xiaoxi.


    However, Gu Xiaoxi looked him up and down, hands nonchalantly in her pockets, her proud face lifted, her sparkling eyes alert, ¡°Sorry, I don¡¯t know you.


    And I won¡¯t go with you!¡±


    Lin Mi smiled slightly, not forcing the issue but merely stepping aside a bit at the doorway.


    At this moment, another middle-aged man came out.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, you should go with them.


    They¡¯re not bad people,¡± said Uncle Zhou.


    ¡°Uncle Zhou!¡± Gu Xiaoxi looked at the middle-aged man before her, her big eyes fluttering, and finally she nodded in agreement.


    All this because the mayor himself had come to her door¡ªit made her wonder who this person in City A looking for her was?


    She couldn¡¯t help but give Lin Mi another look.


    Four hours on a plane.


    A strange city, a different kind of prosperity and grandeur.


    Gu Xiaoxi had never left the small Luocheng before, and seeing the metropolis of City A for the first time was a little exciting.


    She had heard that BD Film Academy was located in this city.


    Could she perhaps get a glimpse of her dream school ahead of time?


    With immense joy, she went to meet that mysterious person.


    ...


    Military Region Hospital¡¯s VIP ward.


    There was only one room on each floor, guarded by soldiers outside¡ªit was the most heavily guarded area in the entire Military Region Hospital.


    As Gu Xiaoxi entered the room, she saw a young man standing by the open window, his physique robust and his demeanor overbearing, exuding a thrilling, iron-blooded aura.


    ¡°Excuse me, are you looking for me?¡± Gu Xiaoxi asked.


    Quan Shaoqing turned around, sizing up Gu Xiaoxi.


    The girl wore a white casual outfit, her hands lazily stuffed into her pockets, her features delicate and handsome, but her brows betrayed a hint of unruliness.


    At that moment, she was looking at him with a shallow smile.


    Her eyes, clear as springs, shimmered with a cunning light, faint yet arrogant.


    It was the first time he had met a woman who did not swoon before him.


    As for Gu Xiaoxi, he did feel some admiration for her.


    Knocking out Zhang San with a rock, if she hadn¡¯t had some skills and courage, she might have been scared out of her wits at the scene.


    At the same time, Gu Xiaoxi was also taking in Quan Shaoqing.


    She thought it was miraculous how a man could look as exceptional as he did.


    His eyebrows were like distant mountains, his eyes like the sea, his presence dashing.


    Even a mere lifting of his eyelids, his face calm and undisturbed, could spark an infatuation deep within one¡¯s heart.


    ¡°From now on, I am your guardian!¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s lips curled into a faint smile.


    His voice was loud and clear, so that Gu Xiaoxi heard every word.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°A week ago, you saved me!¡± Quan Shaoqing said.


    It was only then that Gu Xiaoxi recalled the incident from a week prior, when she knocked out Zhang San and called an ambulance but didn¡¯t bother with anything further.


    She stared at the man before her, waving her hand generously and smiling, ¡°No big deal.


    There¡¯s no need for you to repay the favor!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not repaying a favor.


    I¡¯ll say it again, from now on, I¡¯m your guardian,¡± Quan Shaoqing emphasized.


    ¡°Why?!¡± This truly shocked Gu Xiaoxi, her fur bristling.


    ¡°First.


    I¡¯m an adult and don¡¯t need a guardian.


    Second, I don¡¯t know you well.


    Third, I¡ªhate¡ªbeing¡ªcontrolled¡ªby¡ªothers¡ªthe¡ªmost!¡±


    She nearly squeezed the last sentence out through clenched teeth.


    Quan Shaoqing crossed his arms, his eyebrows lifting sternly, ¡°I am already your guardian, Gu Xiaoxi, and you have no say in the matter.¡±


    ¡°Fuck!¡± Gu Xiaoxi couldn¡¯t help but curse.


    She glared at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s back, a cold light flaring in her eyes, like a small animal coiled and ready to pounce in face of danger, ¡°In this world, no one can control me, except for my mom!¡±


    ¡°Then try!


    If you can live in this city by yourself for seven days, I won¡¯t meddle in your affairs,¡± Quan Shaoqing said.


    ¡°Fine!


    You said it, let¡¯s pinky swear, and that¡¯s that,¡± Gu Xiaoxi stepped forward, extending her little finger.


    Quan Shaoqing also extended his finger, hooking it around her delicate little finger.


    Gu Xiaoxi lifted her head, a mischievous glint in her eyes, her smile radiant, ¡°I¡¯ll have you know, I¡¯m going to win.¡±


    With those words, she boldly turned around, her silhouette standing tall like a resilient pine.


    Quan Shaoqing narrowed his eyes, his appreciation for her growing.


    ¡°Young and brash, truly endearing!¡±


    Lin Mi, standing behind Quan Shaoqing, shook his head and sighed, ¡°Why don¡¯t you just tell her that you¡¯re doing this to protect her?¡±


    After all, Zhang San¡¯s death had drawn her into a struggle between good and evil.


    Keeping Gu Xiaoxi close was the safest option.

 Chapter 3 - 3 002 Gu Xiaoxi Gets Trapped Typos Corrected

    ?3: 002 Gu Xiaoxi Gets Trapped (Typos Corrected) 3: 002 Gu Xiaoxi Gets Trapped (Typos Corrected) In Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eyes, life was simple: three meals a day plus sleep.


    Seven days were nothing but the blink of an eye.


    After she left the Military Region Hospital, the outside world was a main road bustling with pedestrians and vehicles moving ceaselessly.


    Although she didn¡¯t bring any luggage from Luocheng to City A, she did bring her bank card.


    As long as you have money, everything is OK!


    ¡°Can I get a single room please?¡± Gu Xiaoxi stood at the hotel reception, casually handing over her bank card.


    The receptionist gave her a once-over, took the bank card, and with a polite smile said, ¡°Miss, I need your ID card as well to process your check-in.¡±


    ID card?


    Gu Xiaoxi tensed up; she had left in such a hurry this morning that she forgot to bring it.


    She frowned, a sharp light flashing in her eyes.


    She couldn¡¯t help but think of Quan Shaoqing¡¯s punchable face¡ªdid he really think he could stump her like this?


    He was seriously underestimating her.


    ¡°Sister, could you lend me your ID card so I can register for a room?¡± Gu Xiaoxi squinted her eyes, her pretty cheeks beaming with a charming smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, we can¡¯t just lend out ID cards for room registrations,¡± the female receptionist, dazzled by Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s smile, hesitated but still calmly refused.


    Gu Xiaoxi pursed her lips and flashed a sly smile, ¡°I¡¯ll give you a ten thousand yuan tip!¡±


    Sure enough, the receptionist hesitated for a moment and then nodded in agreement.


    After helping Gu Xiaoxi successfully process the hotel check-in information, the receptionist handed her the card machine, ¡°Miss, please swipe your card to make the payment!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi entered her PIN and handed the device back to the receptionist, then turned to look at the outside as the sky gradually darkened.


    She wouldn¡¯t be defeated by that meddlesome man.


    ¡°Miss, I¡¯m sorry, but your bank card has been frozen,¡± the receptionist apologized.


    ¡°Frozen!


    Really?


    Can you swipe it again?¡± Gu Xiaoxi had a bad feeling and patiently tried several more times, gritting her teeth.


    ¡°It¡¯s truly frozen!¡± The receptionist looked as if she was about to cry, realizing that the ten thousand yuan tip wasn¡¯t going to happen.


    ¡°^&^@^¡± Gu Xiaoxi clenched the bank card in her hands, wanting to curse someone out, only to realize she didn¡¯t even know his name¡ªand she was scammed just like that.


    Her bank card was frozen, and she was certain it was his doing!


    The scheming Quan Shaoqing!


    She wasn¡¯t done with him!


    ¡°Damn it!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi tried various payment apps on her phone, only to discover there wasn¡¯t a single cent left.


    Now, she was really at the end of her rope!


    ...Quan Shaoqing, if you dare show up in front of me now, see if I don¡¯t beat you to death...


    The only frenzied thought in Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s mind was this.


    *


    The city¡¯s night was ablaze with neon lights and red wine.


    Gu Xiaoxi walked along the desolate street, bored, kicking a plastic bottle around.


    No money!


    What a rough life!


    She never carried cash, so much so that now she couldn¡¯t even afford a meal.


    Accustomed to having everything handed to her, Gu Xiaoxi felt for the first time that life had abandoned her.


    A child without a mother is like a blade of grass.


    ¡°I¡¯m so hungry!¡± Suddenly, Gu Xiaoxi kicked the empty plastic bottle forcefully; it flew and landed neatly into a nearby trash can.


    She sat on the edge of a flower bed by the street, feeling depressed.


    At that moment, a Husky barked at her twice.


    Previously, its noble owner threw it a fragrant chicken leg.


    While gnawing on the chicken leg, the Husky barked chaotically, as if boasting to Gu Xiaoxi that it had something delicious to eat and she didn¡¯t.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s face darkened.


    Quan Shaoqing bullied her, and now even this dog dared to bully her too?


    Oh my dear mother!


    If you are aware beneath the ground, let a bolt of lightning strike Quan Shaoqing dead!


    Gu Xiaoxi stood up coldly, hands in her pockets, exuding an evil aura all over as she walked up to the Husky and kicked its chicken leg away.


    The Husky watched the chicken leg draw a beautiful parabola, landing steadily into the trash can.


    Its mane bristled in an instant.


    ¡°Woof woof woof!¡±


    By the time the Husky reacted and went to find the perpetrator, Gu Xiaoxi had long since disappeared.


    *


    ¡°You little brat, pay up!


    If you can¡¯t pay, we¡¯ll have to carve out your organs and sell them,¡± the man¡¯s crude voice rang clearly through the luxurious city park.


    Gu Xiaoxi was lying on a big tree, ready to spend the night there.


    Hearing the voice, she frowned and looked in the direction it came from.


    Not far away, under a dim streetlight, four burly middle-aged men surrounded a girl about her age, looking fierce and malevolent.


    ¡°Please, let me go!


    I only borrowed one hundred thousand yuan from you, and I¡¯ve already mortgaged my house to you.


    My mom is still lying in the hospital bed, I really have no money!


    Once I sell the house, I will give you all the money!¡± The girl suddenly knelt down on the ground, begging pitifully.


    ¡°The house can only count as interest, and it¡¯s now ours.


    You little brat, you¡¯re penniless now, except for your body, which is still worth some money.¡±


    ¡°How about this...you make us happy, and we¡¯ll extend you another two days to go beg your relatives for money?¡±


    ¡°Right, I agree!


    If you say yes, we¡¯ll give you two more days.¡±


    The girl trembled all over with fear; even with an extension of two days, she couldn¡¯t pay off their high-interest debt.


    Moreover, she would rather die than sell her body.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s dark eyes gradually narrowed, and she plucked two green leaves from the tree branch.


    ¡°My house is worth at least one million yuan, and I only borrowed ten thousand yuan from you.


    Please, let me go!


    I beg you,¡± she clung to the last sliver of hope, wishing for their mercy, not knowing that her pleas only fed the men¡¯s evil desires.


    ¡°You little brat, begging us is useless.


    Tie her up and drag her away.¡±


    A tall man viciously covered the girl¡¯s mouth and dragged her towards the dark forest, right under the big tree where Gu Xiaoxi was sitting.


    Gu Xiaoxi crossed her legs and casually sat up, looking down from above, ¡°Hey!


    You are disturbing my sleep.¡±


    Her cold and indifferent tone was especially sinister in the darkness!


    The men below all looked up at the treetop at the same time.


    They saw a beautiful girl lazily sitting on the tree branch under the hazy moonlight, with her black hair falling to her waist, and her dark eyes showing a hint of arrogance and evil.


    ¡°Little Baby, how can you sleep here alone!


    Come down, uncle will take you to a hotel,¡± a man with dyed flaxen hair whistled, speaking in a frivolous tone, his eyes lewdly fixed on Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°Scram!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi played with four leaves in her hand, coldly spitting out a word.


    Though her voice was soft, it was filled with overbearing authority.


    The four men could not help but feel a chill in their hearts, a coldness that crept up from the soles of their feet and spread to every limb.


    Had they just been intimidated by a mere young girl?


    The four exchanged glances, instantly coming to their senses, and cursed Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°You little brat, refusing a toast only to drink a forfeit...¡±


    But before they could finish their words, they suddenly felt a pain in their foreheads.


    The green leaves, sharp as blades, had pierced their brows, and blood dripped down drop by drop.


    Mu Xiaofei¡¯s eyes widened in shock, her pupils suddenly shrinking.


    She looked at Gu Xiaoxi, whose hand had not yet retracted from shooting the leaves, both shocked and relieved.


    Did this mean she could ask for her help?


    ¡°Please, save me!


    They are loan sharks,¡± Mu Xiaofei begged urgently.


    Gu Xiaoxi squinted, uninterested in meddling, yet she couldn¡¯t stand scumbags.


    She stared coldly at the four men who were howling in pain and said coolly, ¡°You have ten seconds to disappear from my sight, otherwise this time, you might not be so lucky to just have your brows pierced by leaves.¡±


    The four men exchanged terrified looks, no longer daring to demand debts from Mu Xiaofei, and fled in panic.


    Anyone who could use leaves as weapons was an extraordinary expert, and they weren¡¯t foolish enough to confront her head-on.

 Chapter 4 - 4 003 If youve made up your mind come back to my side

    ?4: 003 If you¡¯ve made up your mind, come back to my side 4: 003 If you¡¯ve made up your mind, come back to my side ¡°Hello, my name is Mu Xiaofei.


    Thank you for saving me!¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t save you!¡± Gu Xiaoxi, faced with Mu Xiaofei¡¯s gratefulness, didn¡¯t even glance her way, crossed her legs, and lay back against the tree trunk to sleep.


    Mu Xiaofei¡¯s expression stiffened before she realized and a touch of emotion showed in her eyes.


    Before, she had hated this unfair world, thinking that besides greed and evil, there was nothing else in human nature.


    Although Gu Xiaoxi did not essentially help her, at that moment, the fact that she had saved her was indisputable.


    ¡°Regardless, I still want to thank you,¡± said Mu Xiaofei.


    She lifted her eyes to look up at Gu Xiaoxi, who was lying on the tree branch, trying to see her more clearly.


    The girl¡¯s aura had always been faint, distant.


    Through the fine gaps between the leaves, bits of moonlight filtered down, shining on her jet-black hair, bestowing her with an aura of mysterious beauty.


    ¡°Gurgle!¡±


    Suddenly, the sound of hunger broke the beauty and quiet of the moment.


    Gu Xiaoxi flipped over, her body smoothly drifting down to the ground.


    ¡°Got any money?¡± she asked, leaning forward.


    Ah!


    Mu Xiaofei, still not recovered from witnessing her astonishing agility, nodded instinctively.


    ¡°Treat me to a hamburger!¡± Gu Xiaoxi said.


    ¡°Oh!


    Okay...¡± Mu Xiaofei¡¯s cheeks flushed, thinking Gu Xiaoxi must have seen how poor she was.


    That¡¯s why she only asked for a hamburger.


    And that¡¯s all she could afford, just one hamburger.


    KFC


    Gu Xiaoxi stared at the hamburger in front of her, feeling an ineffable melancholy.


    When her mother was alive, she never let her eat such junk food.


    Now, clearly, having something to eat wasn¡¯t bad at all.


    The reason she bought a hamburger was that, in her memory, it should be the cheapest food available, twenty-five yuan, enough to fill you up.


    Who asked her to have a world¡¯s best mother who pampered her from a young age?


    Gu Xiaoxi was about to bite into the hamburger when the sound of Mu Xiaofei swallowing her saliva made her stop her eating motion.


    She examined Mu Xiaofei, whose clothes were old yet clean, a standard oval face, unusually pretty, standing gracefully and smart as a whip.


    At that moment, she gazed at the hamburger in her hand as if she were hungrier than Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°Are you hungry too?¡± Gu Xiaoxi asked.


    Mu Xiaofei¡¯s cheeks colored again, and she quickly shook her head, embarrassedly saying, ¡°My mother has never had one before, could you share some with me?


    I want her to try what¡¯s called foreign cuisine.


    ...Ah, because this twenty-five yuan is my last bit of money, I won¡¯t get paid until next Monday...


    ¡±


    ¡°Have you ever eaten one?¡± Gu Xiaoxi asked.


    Mu Xiaofei shook her head.


    For her, a twenty-five yuan hamburger was an extravagant treat.


    She would rather buy steamed buns for half a yuan.


    Gu Xiaoxi decisively split the hamburger in half, ¡°This half is for your mother.¡±


    Then she split her half again in two, ¡°Here, this half, half for each of us.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need it, you¡¯re hungry, just you eat,¡± Mu Xiaofei hurriedly declined.


    But her stomach chose that moment to growl.


    Her face turned red with embarrassment once again.


    ¡°Idiot!


    Hold this!¡± Gu Xiaoxi coldly placed half the hamburger in her hand, feeling an indescribable emotion within.


    A sense of confusion, something like pity, almost sorrowful for her...in short, indescribable.


    She finished off the hamburger in a few bites, whereas Mu Xiaofei savored it slowly, as if it were some rare treasure.


    Gu Xiaoxi sighed, took a beautiful Jade Buddha from around her neck, and placed it in Mu Xiaofei¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Take this, sell it.


    It¡¯s worth at least five million.


    Pay off the usury, and use the rest for your mother¡¯s treatment.¡±


    ¡°No, I can¡¯t take this...¡± Mu Xiaofei, scared, immediately pushed the jade back.


    She had never seen anything so valuable in her life.


    ¡°Take it!


    My family has plenty of these things.¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s dark eyes were filled with seriousness, ¡°If we ever meet again, I hope you won¡¯t kneel to scum anymore.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi stood up, strode away, and her retreating figure was dazzlingly brilliant.


    Mu Xiaofei stiffened all over and stood there dumbfounded, tears suddenly streaming down her face.


    Watching Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s departing back, her heart overflowed with indescribable gratitude.


    At the same time, a fiery fighting spirit was burning inside her.


    If possible, she too wanted to become strong and never be bullied by scum again.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, I will never be bullied again.¡± She suddenly stood up and chased after her, swearing loudly behind Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi turned around and glanced at her.


    Her eyes were indifferent as she gave her a thumbs up from afar.


    It meant: I believe in you!


    Mu Xiaofei¡¯s eyes reddened, and she split her mouth into a smile, crying and moved, ¡°I¡¯ll borrow your stuff for now, and I will definitely return it to you in the future.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi waved her hand at her and disappeared into the night.


    That delicate figure gave an impression of towering strength.


    ...


    The next day, close to noon.


    ¡°You little brat, did you come here to wash dishes or break them?


    In twenty minutes, you¡¯ve smashed all my restaurant¡¯s dishes.


    Now, right now, get out of here!¡±


    The restaurant owner was burly and stout, brandishing a broom as he chased an eighteen-year-old girl out.


    You¡¯ve seen it right; that person was Gu Xiaoxi.


    She had looked for work at four restaurants that morning and ended up being kicked out of all of them for breaking dishes.


    ¡°I¡¯m so hungry!¡± With her front stuck to her back, Gu Xiaoxi leaned against a camphor tree on the roadside, feeling terribly downhearted.


    On a whim last night, she had given away the only valuable thing she had.


    And now, she was sleeping in the park and washing dishes for food.


    The most tragic part was that she hadn¡¯t even managed to earn a single piece of bread.


    She began to doubt her mother¡¯s belief that a daughter should be raised in comfort.


    She couldn¡¯t even wash dishes properly...


    to tears!


    There was a black luxury car parked ten meters behind Gu Xiaoxi, with Quan Shaoqing sitting inside, watching her with a smile on his lips, ¡°Go and call her over.¡±


    Lin Mi¡¯s heart was pounding.


    Their highly respected superior officer had incredulously sneaked out of the hospital behind the doctor¡¯s back, just to see Gu Xiaoxi being kicked out by her boss.


    He had been following Gu Xiaoxi all morning.


    *


    ¡°Miss Gu, we meet again.¡± Lin Mi stood in front of Gu Xiaoxi with a beaming smile.


    ¡°Yeah!


    We meet again so soon.


    Do you need something from me?¡± Gu Xiaoxi immediately stood up straight, shuffled her shins to appear more spirited.


    She didn¡¯t want to be seen by Young Master Quan in such a sorry state.


    ¡°Our superior officer is here, and he wants to see you,¡± Lin Mi said.


    *


    Opening the door of the black luxury car, Gu Xiaoxi climbed in.


    Quan Shaoqing sat inside, wearing a white shirt with the top button casually undone, revealing a glimpse of his solid chest.


    It made him look less stern and more carefree and tender.


    Gu Xiaoxi thought that such a Quan Shaoqing didn¡¯t seem very dislikeable.


    At least, from the outside, he could deceive those with unstable minds, but not her.


    ¡°It seems you¡¯re not doing very well.


    Think it over, and come back to me.


    From now on, I¡¯ll take care of your food and lodging.


    I can be your guardian, and I will not treat you poorly.


    How about it?¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s dark eyes glinted with tenderness, and the smile at the corner of his mouth was rakishly charming.


    Looking at that face, the more Gu Xiaoxi looked, the more punchable it seemed, especially the smile.


    It was just like a cunning old fox, coaxing a naive little lamb to slaughter.

 Chapter 5 - 5 004 He actually dared to trick her

    ?5: 004 He actually dared to trick her 5: 004 He actually dared to trick her Gu Xiaoxi looked at that face and no matter how she looked at it, she felt it was asking for a beating, especially that smile, which was just like a cunning old fox plotting to deceive a lamb waiting to be slaughtered.


    She certainly wouldn¡¯t be fooled by his vulgar appearance.


    ¡°What my mother left me is more than enough for both shelter and food.


    Please don¡¯t flatter yourself,¡± Gu Xiaoxi glared angrily as she spoke.


    ¡°It seems you haven¡¯t made up your mind yet.


    I¡¯ll give you some time to think it over,¡± Quan Shaoqing said amiably, reaching out to tousle Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s dark hair.


    Gu Xiaoxi immediately swatted his hand away, recalling a very important matter, ¡°After all this time, you still haven¡¯t told me your name.


    May I ask what it is?¡±


    ¡°Quan Shaoqing!


    What can I do for you?¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s eyebrows arched gracefully, and his lips curled slightly, appearing to be in an exceptionally good mood.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t presume to instruct!


    I merely want to ask you, why did you freeze my bank card?¡± Gu Xiaoxi crossed her arms, her eyes blazing with a desire to devour him alive.


    She loathed being controlled by others, and yet here was this self-invited annoyance, coming to her doorstep, wanting to take charge of her life.


    ¡°I have told you, I am already your guardian.¡±


    ¡°Our seven-day agreement is not yet up, you are not my guardian yet,¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s breath heated with anger as she leaned in, furiously grabbing Quan Shaoqing by the collar.


    She had kindly saved someone only to have trouble come knocking.


    Lin Mi looked at the pair, at swords¡¯ points, and shook his head involuntarily.


    In this world, only Gu Xiaoxi dared to treat Quan Shaoqing with such disregard.


    This girl truly had guts!


    ¡°During our seven-day contract, you are to fend for yourself without using a single cent of the money your mother left you,¡± Quan Shaoqing said indolently, leaning back in his seat, allowing Gu Xiaoxi to clutch at his collar without so much as a furrowed brow.


    ¡°You...shameless!¡± Gu Xiaoxi ground her teeth.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, it¡¯s not good to curse.


    You should change that habit!¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s handsome eyes immediately turned serious.


    ¡°Fuck!¡±


    ¡°You cursed again!¡±


    ¡°Your grandpa!¡±


    ¡°Xiao Xi, I was going to give you some living expenses, but now I think I won¡¯t!¡±


    ¡°Quan Shaoqing!


    You...you...you...¡± Gu Xiaoxi, frantic with rage, raised her fist and swung at his face.


    ¡°Bastard!¡±


    She punched with seventy percent of her strength, whipping up a gust of wind, believing she could instantly flatten the face before her.


    To her surprise, Quan Shaoqing casually lifted his hand and effortlessly caught her fist.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eyes, full of anger, were now filled with astonishment.


    Her punch could have killed a bull, and yet he caught it so effortlessly?


    She looked up, her gaze colliding with his pitch-black eyes.


    In that instant, Gu Xiaoxi felt a chilling horror, like a tide washing over her, freezing every cell inside her.


    Those deep-set eyes, so dark and shimmering, seemed to store endless power within their beautiful pupils.


    When he looked at her, she felt as if a mountain was pressing down on her, completely immobilizing her.


    ¡°You...¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s heart raced as she plopped back into her seat, her eyes flashing with shock.


    She remembered her master once saying.


    There was a kind of martial arts with no techniques, where one¡¯s gaze alone could intimidate the enemy.


    It caused people to lose consciousness for a short time and made movements completely uncontrollable by thought...


    ¡°Xiao Xi, I¡¯ll welcome you back home anytime,¡± Quan Shaoqing said with a smile.


    His face, jade-like and with a faint, soft smile, made him entirely approachable and gentle, as if that sharp look from before had been her own misconception.


    Gu Xiaoxi tilted her head and looked at him, a mischievous, unrestrained smile playing on her lips.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think I¡¯ll submit just like that.


    You want to bind me?


    No chance.


    Hope you keep your promise.


    I won¡¯t spend a penny of the money my mom left me, and in seven days, when I return to Luocheng, you better not come looking for trouble!¡±


    Still not admitting defeat?


    Quan Shaoqing chuckled, said nothing more, and watched as Gu Xiaoxi got out of the car.


    At a height of one meter sixty-eight, with long, black hair and a devil-may-care silhouette, she did look a bit wild.


    But in front of him, she was still far from enough.


    After all, she was just a little girl who lived under her mother¡¯s wing.


    *


    Gu Xiaoxi stood on the street corner, laughed out loud three times, and raised the twenty new one-thousand-yuan bills above her head.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t expect me to filch the cash from right under your nose, huh!


    Quan Shaoqing, since you want to play, I¡¯ll play with you till the end.


    Dream on if you think you can become my guardian!¡±


    In a high-end restaurant, Gu Xiaoxi ordered a table full of dishes like a nouveau riche, eating to her heart¡¯s content and even ordering desserts and a fruit platter after the meal.


    ¡°Waiter, check please!¡± she called out to a server not far away, while gnawing on an apple.


    ¡°Miss, that will be 4,800 yuan!¡± The waiter said with a smile.


    Gu Xiaoxi generously pulled out a stack of crisp new bills from her pocket and handed them to the waiter, ¡°Here¡¯s 5,000, no need for change.¡±.


    The delighted waiter pocketed the money and courteously added, ¡°Our restaurant offers a complimentary glass of our exclusive secret-recipe fruit juice to customers who spend over three thousand.


    Miss, I¡¯ll bring it over for you!¡±


    ¡°Sure!¡± Gu Xiaoxi crossed her legs and her eyes lit up with pleasure.


    It¡¯s great to have money!


    Soon after, however, she saw the waiter coming back with four menacing security guards in uniform, and they surrounded Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°Miss, your money is counterfeit!¡±


    ¡°Say that again!¡± Gu Xiaoxi jumped to her feet, shock causing her to stab her own arm with a toothpick, the pain piercing her heart.


    The waiter slammed her bills onto the table, ¡°All this money is counterfeit.


    Please, miss, do not make such jokes.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi flipped through the bills again and again.


    Damn it!


    How had she not realized they were fake?


    Judging by the expressions on the waiter and the four security guards¡¯ faces, this was definitely counterfeit money!


    Gu Xiaoxi swiftly pulled out another bill from her pocket and handed it to the waiter, ¡°Is this one fake too?¡±


    ¡°Fake!¡± The waiter¡¯s tone was firm.


    ¡°Miss, did you not know the money you brought was counterfeit?


    Then do you have any money to pay the bill?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s breath hitched, and she glared with bloodshot eyes, grinding her teeth!


    ¡°Fuck!


    I¡¯ve been conned!¡±


    Only now did she realize that Quan Shaoqing had known all along that she would do this, and he had set a trap for her!


    ...!


    ¡°Miss, please settle the bill!¡± Seeing her response, the waiter thought she was just another dine-and-dasher and, with the four bodyguards, moved to seize Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi flipped over, rising to her feet and effortlessly dodging the grasp of the four security guards.


    Her money was fake; she was set on this uninsured feast.


    The detestable Quan Shaoqing, how dare he trick her!

 Chapter 6 - 6 005 A farce

    ?6: 005 A farce 6: 005 A farce ¡°Stinky girl, stop running!¡± Four security guards chased behind, and Gu Xiaoxi seemed to fly on her feet as she zigzagged rapidly through the crowd.


    After weaving through seven streets, she finally shook off the four sturdy security guards.


    In the central park of City A, under the great fountain, Gu Xiaoxi bent over, hands on her knees, gasping heavily for breath.


    She turned to glance at the bustling crowd, eyes blazing with fire, ¡°Quan Shaoqing...¡± her voice was filled with suppressed rage.


    In the end, she cursed his ancestors for eighteen generations in helpless anger, then sat by the fountain to rest.


    The brilliant afternoon sunlight cast a beautiful rainbow behind her as Gu Xiaoxi sat leisurely on the edge of the flowerbed, legs crossed.


    Although she had been tricked by Quan Shaoqing and was very annoyed, she would get her revenge!


    Her gaze wandered with interest toward a commotion not far away.


    A twenty-something-year-old fat man was followed by four bodyguards, looking mighty.


    A limited-edition luxury car was parked behind him.


    A middle-aged woman, about fifty, riding an electric bike, passed by him and damaged the headlight of his luxury car, and then the drama began.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!


    I¡¯m sorry!


    I didn¡¯t mean to do it.¡± The woman turned pale with fear and hastened to take out all the money from her worn wallet, ¡°I¡¯ll compensate you, please go fix the car!¡±


    ¡°Are you f***ing kidding me?


    Do you know how much my car is worth?


    The repair cost is three million, get the money right now!¡± The fat man glared with angry eyes, slapping the money out of the woman¡¯s hand to the ground, where the scattered bills were blown by the wind right to Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s feet.


    Upon hearing ¡°three million,¡± the woman¡¯s legs buckled from fear, and she knelt down pleading.


    So shocked that she even forgot to pick up the bills that flew away, she said, ¡°I have two children in college, that 3,000 yuan was my salary for the month!


    I really can¡¯t come up with any more money.¡±


    ¡°Get lost, you old hag!


    If you can¡¯t cough up the money, let your kids pay for it.


    Three million, don¡¯t think you can dodge even a cent.


    Everyone here saw, it was you who damaged my car,¡± the fat man pointed at the woman and spat viciously.


    His bodyguards assumed a posture ready to pounce.


    At this point, passersby started to gather around, pointing and talking, but no one stepped forward to help.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!


    I¡¯m sorry!¡± The woman couldn¡¯t stop wiping away her tears; three million was a huge sum to her.


    She couldn¡¯t imagine compensating him; she hadn¡¯t even earned that much money in her entire life.


    ¡°What good is sorry!


    Call your son immediately and have him pay!¡± the fat man shouted angrily.


    The woman just wept, regardless of how the fat man pressured her, she wouldn¡¯t call her children.


    Suddenly, the plaza became quite lively.


    ¡°Not talking, is that it?


    I¡¯ll call the police and have you arrested!¡± the fat man huffed, pulling out his phone to call the police.


    Just then, a strong, angry hand grabbed the fat man¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Bullying an elderly person, what kind of man are you?


    Who told you to park your luxury car at the roadside?


    Serves you right to be hit.¡± The person speaking was a nineteen-year-old young man named Gao Jinxin, who worked at a Taekwondo gym, young and full of vigor.


    Gu Xiaoxi lazily lifted her eyelids, looking at the commotion not far away, her deep eyes revealing no hint of her thoughts.


    She gave Gao Jinxin a couple of extra glances, finding his features handsome, with a height of 1.85 meters, he exuded an impression of uprightness.


    ¡°You little punk, what did you just say?


    Believe it or not, I¡¯ll beat you to death.¡± The fat man¡¯s eyes bulged with fury as he pointed at Gao Jinxin, shaking all over, ¡°Come on, hit him for me!


    Don¡¯t think just because you¡¯re tall I¡¯m afraid of you!¡±


    Four bodyguards lunged at him with fists flying, but Gao Jinxin, with an overbearing grip, effortlessly restrained their wrists.


    Seeing this, the fat man immediately took a few steps back, ¡°You...


    What do you want?¡±


    ¡°Here¡¯s 3,000 yuan for you, now get lost!¡± Gao Jinxin picked up the money the woman had dropped and stuffed it into the fat man¡¯s hand.


    The fat man clenched his teeth, ¡°Don¡¯t think for a second that this little bit of money will appease me!¡±


    Gao Jinxin said, ¡°What do you want to do about it?¡±


    The fatty¡¯s eyes swiveled, and a vile smirk crept over his lips, ¡°Unless you let my guys beat you up for twenty minutes.


    After twenty minutes, I¡¯ll take the 3,000 yuan.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Gao Jinxin agreed without a second thought.


    The fatty snatched the money and coldly waved his hand at his bodyguards, ¡°Beat him up!


    You heard me, just don¡¯t kill him, beat him as you like.¡±


    Four bodyguards stepped forward at the command, two of them held Gao Jinxin down, while the other two began to punch and kick.


    Gu Xiaoxi glanced indifferently at Gao Jinxin, casually crossed his legs, swung his little leather shoe, and exhaled two words, ¡°Idiot!¡±


    The bodyguards were somewhat skilled, and Gao Jixin did not fight back.


    In just ten minutes, Gao Jixin had fallen to the ground vomiting blood, curling up as if about to die.


    The old lady rushed to the fatty in terror, pleading for mercy, ¡°Please don¡¯t hit him anymore.


    You¡¯re going to kill him.¡±


    ¡°Get lost, I want to kill this meddlesome fool,¡± the fatty kicked the old lady away.


    The old lady crawled in front of Gao Jinxin, ignoring her own injuries, ¡°Child, I appreciate your kindness.


    You¡¯re going to lose your life, just run away!¡±


    Gao Jinxin¡¯s face was bruised, he clenched his fists tightly and ground his teeth, just glaring viciously at the fatty, ¡°I hope you keep your word.


    After twenty minutes, please don¡¯t bother the old lady again.¡±


    ¡°Still got energy to talk, keep beating him!¡± the fatty viciously kicked Gao Jinxin once more.


    Twenty minutes later, Gao Jinxin lay on the ground like a dead man, motionless, with both his arms and legs broken.


    The old lady cried her heart out on the side.


    The fatty, holding the 3,000 yuan, spat on Gao Jinxin¡¯s body, ¡°You little punk, let¡¯s see how arrogant you can be now.¡±


    Everyone cast sympathetic glances towards Gao Jinxin while their anger towards the fatty grew more intense.


    Just when everyone thought Gao Jinxin might be dead, the young man barely opened his swollen eyes, grabbed the fatty¡¯s trouser leg, ¡°I¡¯m not dead yet.


    Don¡¯t forget what you said, if you take the 3,000 yuan, don¡¯t bother the old lady again.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!


    Are you dreaming?


    I took the 3,000 yuan, but the remaining 2,997,000 yuan can¡¯t be a cent short.


    Old hag, you can¡¯t escape.¡±


    ¡°You deceitful fatty, you didn¡¯t keep your word.¡± Gao Jinxin tried to rise in anger, but was unable to with his injuries, unable to get up no matter what.


    ¡°You misunderstood my meaning.


    You willingly let me beat you up.


    Kid, you¡¯re still too green to play mind games with me,¡± the fatty laughed heartily and turned to the old lady, ¡°Old woman, hurry up and call your son.


    Otherwise, I¡¯ll have you locked up in the police station.¡±


    The old lady¡¯s eyes were red from crying, and she naturally wouldn¡¯t trouble her child with her mistake, even if it meant going to jail.


    The fatty grabbed the old lady¡¯s hair, turned his head, and fiercely spat on the ground, ¡°Not talking, huh?


    Then let¡¯s go to the police station and talk slowly...¡±


    ¡°Who spit on my sister¡¯s shoes?¡± Just then, a pleasant voice rang out from the crowd, like a stream flowing by, melodiously tinkling, immediately turning the scene into a tranquil and beautiful one.


    Everyone turned to look, and there stood a girl in clean white clothes, her beautiful black hair cascading over her shoulders, basking in the sunlight, her exquisitely beautiful features appearing almost unreal.


    She had her hands in her pockets, one foot stretched out, and her whole being exuded an unusual air of grace and defiance.


    At that moment, her black little leather shoes had a few spots of dirt, causing her to frown in disgust.


    Her eyes, twinkling with a cold light, stared faintly at the fatty.


    The fatty felt a chill as Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s gaze seemed to make his hair stand on end.


    After coming to his senses, he boldly raised his head, ¡°What if I did?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi squinted her eyes with a bright, adorable smile and beckoned to the fatty, ¡°Come here, let sister tell you, how about that?¡± She bit down extra hard on the last two words.


    Instinctively, the fatty shuddered.

 Chapter 7 - 7 006

    ?7: 006 What a terrible girl!


    7: 006 What a terrible girl!


    Gu Xiaoxi smiled invitingly at the chubby man, waving him over, ¡°Come here, let me tell you, how about that?¡± She emphasized the last two words heavily.


    Instinctively, the chubby man shivered.


    Worst of all, he actually walked over obediently.


    ¡°Kneel and wipe it clean for me!¡± Gu Xiaoxi gently lifted her hand, her long, beautiful fingers carelessly resting on the chubby man¡¯s shoulder.


    The chubby man felt an immense pressure sweeping over him, and his knees instinctively bent as he knelt down.


    Wiping the cold sweat from his forehead with his sleeve, the chubby man snapped back to reality and froze.


    What was happening to him?


    He had been involuntarily overpowered by her aura.


    He clearly had bodyguards!


    ¡°You brat, what are you saying?


    You want me to kneel for you?


    I¡¯ll see you dead.


    What are you four waiting for, beat her so bad she won¡¯t recognize her own mother,¡± the chubby man regained his senses, stood up, and stepped back a few paces in anger.


    The four bodyguards clenched their fists, their solid muscles on display, as they charged at Gu Xiaoxi.


    The young girl standing amidst the crowd seemed slender, even a bit delicate, causing people to worry for her, ¡°Girl, you better run!


    You¡¯ve offended the Second Young Master of the Zheng family, you certainly won¡¯t have good days ahead.¡±


    ¡°His dad¡¯s rich, he can fix anything for him, bullying and bossing around, and no one dares to intervene.


    Don¡¯t use an egg against a rock.¡±


    ¡°Others avoid him at all costs, and yet you knowingly bump into him, whose child are you?¡±


    Good Samaritans were earnestly advising her.


    Gu Xiaoxi flexed her wrists, slightly squinted her eyes, and the smile at the corners of her mouth deepened.


    As she watched the four bodyguards rushing over, she clenched her fist and swung out.


    With just one punch, the four men flew out like falling dominoes.


    The scene was left with nothing but the sound of collective gasps.


    Everyone was stunned.


    So strong!


    Zheng Fantong wiped the cold sweat from his forehead in shock, looking at Gu Xiaoxi with dread in his eyes.


    The delicate girl had knocked down four big bodyguards with just a punch.


    He, the Second Young Master of the Zheng family, who had never been afraid of anyone, was now feeling genuine fear of Gu Xiaoxi from the bottom of his heart.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked indifferently at the bodyguards lying on the ground, her arms crossed, her chin slightly raised, and turned to the chubby Zheng Fantong, ¡°I¡¯ll give you one chance to clean it for me.


    Otherwise...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll wipe, I¡¯ll wipe!¡± Zheng Fantong immediately ran forward, got down on the ground, and started using his expensive shirt to carefully and meticulously clean Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s shoes.


    Not far from the crowd, a man with glasses sat in a sapphire-blue luxury car, watching Gu Xiaoxi, his mouth twitching, ¡°Who is this girl we¡¯ve never seen before?


    Making Zheng Fantong clean her shoes, that¡¯s unprecedented, a world first!¡±


    ¡°Who doesn¡¯t know that the Zheng family is not only wealthy, but also has significant family connections.


    With so many powerful and influential people, most would choose to give in to this numskull, but she made Zheng Fantong kneel to clean her shoes.


    She¡¯s got guts, got spunk.


    I really admire her, admire her!¡± The other young man had a handsome and delicate appearance.


    The speakers were two young masters from the Lin family, equally distinguished.


    If they knew what Gu Xiaoxi was about to do next, their feelings wouldn¡¯t be as simple as admiration.


    Having diligently cleaned Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s shoes, Zheng Fantong quickly smiled obsequiously, ¡°Miss, it¡¯s done, may I go now?¡±


    In his heart, he had already planned it all out; once he got away, he would find Gu Xiaoxi by all means necessary and make her regret what she did, having humiliated him in front of so many people.


    Gu Xiaoxi lazily fished out her ear, then stretched out a hand to hook over Zheng Fantong¡¯s shoulder, turning to look at the luxury car behind him, ¡°The Blue Dragonfly is limited to ten units worldwide, each with a manufacturing cost of seventy million and a selling price of ninety million.


    For the damaged headlight and three scratches, a compensation of three million, you¡¯ve really taken a loss.¡±


    Zheng Fantong listened and immediately felt that Gu Xiaoxi wasn¡¯t so annoying after all, ¡°That¡¯s right!


    Finally, someone understands.


    Asking her to pay three million really isn¡¯t too much.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha, indeed, it¡¯s not a lot.


    It¡¯s just the cost of a meal and booking a venue!¡± Gu Xiaoxi chuckled heartily at Zheng Fantong, ¡°Bro, what¡¯s your honorable surname?¡±


    ¡°My surname is Zheng, Zheng Fantong!¡±


    ¡°Oh!


    Real rice bucket!


    I think this car already has flaws, it¡¯ll depreciate a lot just by driving.


    How about I help you out?¡± Gu Xiaoxi squinted and laughed loudly.


    ¡°Great, great!


    If you really want to help me, I won¡¯t fuss about what just happened,¡± Zheng Fantong felt that Gu Xiaoxi was becoming more and more agreeable, even more so than looking at his own brother.


    Bystanders, listening to the conversation between the two, showed scornful expressions, having originally thought that Gu Xiaoxi was standing up for the old lady, only to realize she was in cahoots with Zheng ¡°Robber.¡±


    Disappointment filled Gao Jinxin¡¯s eyes.


    The old lady, trembling with fright, knew she could never earn the amount others spent on a meal in her lifetime, and a look of despair flashed in her eyes.


    Just as everyone was shaking their heads,


    Gu Xiaoxi stood in front of Zheng Fantong¡¯s Blue Dragonfly and slowly lifted her foot, delivering a kick full of momentum to the car¡¯s hood.


    Everyone heard a loud ¡°bang,¡± accompanied by a puff of blue smoke from the car.


    The car, which had only suffered a minor bump before, now had a huge dent the size of a basin in the hood, all four tires exploded, the rims were bent out of shape, and blue smoke billowed from the engine.


    Just one kick, and the Blue Dragonfly was thoroughly scrapped.


    Yikes!


    What terrifying strength must it take to wreck the Blue Dragonfly with a single kick?


    It took a good while for everyone to realize why Gu Xiaoxi had said the car had flaws and that she wanted to help him...


    It turned out she wanted to help Zheng Fantong by wrecking it!...


    ¡°...¡± Bystanders revealed a look of mixed laughter and tears.


    They looked at Gu Xiaoxi with respect and awe.


    Zheng Fantong stood beside his beloved car like a zombie, fingers trembling with rage, his face a ghastly pale.


    Only Gu Xiaoxi, the instigator, acted as if nothing had happened, hands in her pockets, kicking off the dust from her shoes, tilting her head slightly to look at Zheng Fantong with a relaxed and comfortable air, saying, ¡°This makes things simpler, no need for repairs.


    The old lady doesn¡¯t have to pay three million.


    You, the lame idiot, can go to the hospital to recover.¡±


    *


    ¡°Who are you calling an idiot!¡± Gao Jinxin was furious, but he was still completely ignored by Gu Xiaoxi.


    *


    ¡°You, you¡¯ve got some nerve to wreck my car,¡± Zheng Fantong nearly roared.


    That car was his treasure, only ten in the whole world, and now, even if one had the money, it couldn¡¯t be bought.


    Bathed in sunlight, Gu Xiaoxi smiled a grin enchanting as a flower, ¡°Brother, I¡¯m helping you!¡± Her expression was definitely serious, very sincere.


    Zheng Fantong felt so angry he could collapse and vomit blood.


    If only he had known that this was the kind of help she meant, he would never have agreed so readily.


    Damn treacherous girl!


    He, Zheng Fantong, was far from done with her!

 Chapter 8 - 8 007 A good material for a soldier

    ?8: 007 A good material for a soldier 8: 007 A good material for a soldier ¡°Toot toot toot!¡± A loud whistle rang out, and in the chaotic crowd, someone shouted, ¡°The police are here!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t even think, she turned and ran.


    She looked up to check her direction and ran towards the Military Region Hospital.


    Zheng Fantong led the police on a chase all the way to the Military Region Hospital.


    Upon reaching the heavily guarded top floor, he dared not proceed any further.


    Gu Xiaoxi kicked open the door to Quan Shaoqing¡¯s hospital room.


    The man on the bed frowned and put down his spoon.


    Before him were two dishes and a soup, clearly in the middle of a meal when he was disturbed, displaying an unhappy expression.


    Without a word, Gu Xiaoxi walked up to the bed, kicked off her shoes, and jumped onto it.


    She snatched the spoon from his hand with a pleasing smile as she looked at his food, ¡°The living is good here!


    Rib soup, greens, beef, you¡¯ve got it all.


    I¡¯m hungry, so I¡¯ll eat some if you don¡¯t mind!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing raised his eyebrow, just as Gu Xiaoxi snatched the rice from in front of him and shoved it into her mouth.


    In no time, her cheeks were stuffed, and she started a sweeping raid on his food.


    As he watched his food about to be entirely devoured, Quan Shaoqing frowned, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, at least save me some.


    Stealing a sick person¡¯s meal.


    What happened to the manners your mother taught you?¡±


    Gulping down the food and standing her ground, Gu Xiaoxi swallowed, raised her head with a brilliant smile to Quan Shaoqing, ¡°Sorry, my manners were so pissed off at you that they ran away from home.


    You need to go bring them back.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s face darkened.


    Give this girl a pole and she sure can climb it fast.


    ¡°You come running here stealing my food, had a change of heart?¡±


    ¡°Change of heart my foot, I won¡¯t submit to your tyranny.


    I¡¯m only here to ask if you¡¯ve gotten too bored being sick, playing tricks with fake money,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said, hugging the soup bowl and gulping it down cleanly.


    In the end, she patted her swollen belly and let out a satisfied burp.


    Quan Shaoqing looked at the empty bowl in front of him, gritting his teeth and nearly spitting blood, ¡°You haven¡¯t had a change of heart, yet you run over here to steal my food.


    Gu Xiaoxi, you¡¯re getting more and more capable.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi spread her arms, displaying a that¡¯s-just-who-I-am expression, ¡°Aren¡¯t you the one wanting to be my guardian?


    Since you¡¯re setting conditions, I need to test if you have the capability.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Quan Shaoqing immediately sensed a bad feeling.


    Having eaten her fill, Gu Xiaoxi lay next to Quan Shaoqing, crossed her legs, and smiled slightly, ¡°I accidentally stepped on someone¡¯s car and crushed it, and someone will come calling later.


    Just deal with it!¡± She described the serious matter as if it were nothing.


    ¡°Crushed someone¡¯s car?


    You come to me for such a trifle?¡±


    ¡°Yes!


    Yes!


    If you can¡¯t solve such a trifle, then you¡¯re not fit to be my guardian,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said, batting her eyes adorably, yet with the cunning look of a little fox.


    Quan Shaoqing looked at Gu Xiaoxi darkly, finding her a bit odd but unable to pinpoint what exactly was strange.


    ¡°Well, now that I¡¯ve had my fill, bye-bye, superior officer!¡± Gu Xiaoxi said, beaming as she hopped off the bed, ¡°I have to say, your food is delicious.


    I¡¯ll come back when I have the chance.¡±


    As Quan Shaoqing watched Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s retreating back, he said nothing but thought, ¡°Hey, I¡¯d advise you to behave.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi turned her head, playfully flicking a strand of shiny hair, ¡°I¡¯d advise you to behave.


    After all, we have no real connection.


    Being my guardian is too much to ask of you.¡±


    The door to the hospital room closed with a ¡°bang.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi left the room and encountered Zheng Fantong and the police in the corridor.


    ¡°Hold on, don¡¯t speak.


    I know why you¡¯re looking for me.


    See that?


    My guardian is inside.


    Go find him, he¡¯ll pay you,¡± said Gu Xiaoxi before turning to the soldiers on guard, ¡°Take them inside!¡±


    ¡°Please follow me,¡± said the soldier, very politely.


    Zheng Fantong made threatening gestures at Gu Xiaoxi, but with the police present, he dared not do much.


    He wanted more than just compensation for his car; he wanted her out of A City.


    The police had already investigated Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s case and were seeking her out to have her compensate Zheng Fantong for his car.


    Now that she was speaking so cooperatively, they took him inside.


    However, they came out in less than two minutes.


    When Zheng Fantong saw Gu Xiaoxi again, he pounced on her like a pug, ¡°Elder Sister Gu, I¡¯ll never dare to bully anyone again.


    I won¡¯t ask you to pay for the car, please just let me go!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi naturally didn¡¯t know what had happened, and she raised her eyebrows curiously, ¡°Hey, you¡¯re really spineless.


    You were sent back by Quan Shaoqing in less than two minutes.


    Did he agree to pay for your car?¡±


    Zheng Fantong naturally didn¡¯t dare to tell Gu Xiaoxi what Quan Shaoqing had said.


    And when they had gone to find Quan Shaoqing, he had only said two sentences.


    ¡°The model of your car!¡±


    ¡°I will find out exactly how your car came to be!¡± Blue Dragonfly¡¯s global sales at ten units, wealthier and more powerful than the Zheng Family hadn¡¯t managed to buy it, so how did a bumpkin come to drive one.


    If this were to be investigated, it would certainly implicate the Zheng Family in unspeakable corruption.


    This time, Zheng Fantong had swallowed his teeth and had to keep a smiling face to please Gu Xiaoxi.


    And Gu Xiaoxi was left feeling depressed and conflicted.


    Quan Shaoqing had settled the matter in merely two minutes.


    Damn, he really had some ability.


    Should she submit?


    Or should she stand her ground?


    ¡°Tsk!


    Think you can discipline me, no chance!¡± No matter what, she would never submit.


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t pay any attention to The Zheng Fatty and turned to stride away.


    Zheng Fantong looked at Gu Xiaoxi with eyes full of resentment; although he had no way to deal with Quan Shaoqing, Gu Xiaoxi, having offended him, would pay a painful price.


    Gu Xiaoxi took the elevator to the hospital¡¯s underground parking garage.


    She happily pulled out a bunch of keys from her pocket.


    This, too, she had pilfered from Quan Shaoqing¡¯s pocket.


    Last time she had been tricked by fake money, she didn¡¯t believe stealing a car key would turn out to be fake as well.


    She pressed the unlock button in the car park, and not far away a black Kulan beeped twice; Gu Xiaoxi happily ran over.


    She excitedly sat in the driver¡¯s seat, pressed the gas pedal, and the car shot out of the hospital.


    Gu Xiaoxi turned back smilingly, waving goodbye to the hospital behind her.


    ¡°Hahaha, with a car, the sea is wide for fish to leap, the sky is high for birds to fly!


    Young Master Quan, seven days¡ªI¡¯ll come home after I¡¯ve had my fun here.


    If you think you can keep me here, no chance!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing stood at the hospital window, watching his own car speed down the street.


    ¡°Superior officer, aren¡¯t you going to do something?¡± Lin Mi asked anxiously.


    ¡°Do what, she¡¯s uncontrollable anyway,¡± Quan Shaoqing replied, raising his hand to close the curtain.


    ¡°So you¡¯re just going to let her go?


    What if she really meets some bad people, after all, Zhang San is just a small fry; if the person above him makes a move, Miss Gu will be in danger,¡± Lin Mi said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, with her skills, unless a bunch of assassins show up, no one will be able to touch her.¡±


    ¡°Then why did you offer yourself as her guardian?¡± Lin Mi was suddenly confused; at first, he had thought Quan Shaoqing had offered protection to Gu Xiaoxi.


    Now, with Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s skills, dealing with a bunch of people was no longer an issue.


    Quan Shaoqing squinted his eyes, a sly, fox-like smile curling at his lips, ¡°Don¡¯t you think she¡¯d make a good soldier?¡±

 Chapter 9 - 9 008 Challenge 1

    ?9: 008 Challenge (1) 9: 008 Challenge (1) Quan Shaoqing squinted his eyes and a fox-like sly smile curled at his lips, ¡°Don¡¯t you think she has the makings of a good soldier?¡±


    ¡°But Miss Gu was accepted into the Film Academy, making her join the military would be impossible with her temperament,¡± Lin Mi sighed.


    He thought it was already difficult enough just being Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s guardian.


    ¡°If she doesn¡¯t want to enlist, no one can force her.


    Even if she¡¯s prime material, she has to be willing to join in the first place.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing laughed wickedly, after all, she was just a little girl, and there was no way he would let someone he had his eyes on slip away.


    ¡°Where¡¯s my lunch?


    How come it¡¯s not here yet?¡± Quan Shaoqing suddenly felt hungry and shouted at Lin Mi behind him, feeling annoyed just thinking about how Gu Xiaoxi had snatched away the lunch he had barely started eating.


    ¡°Superior officer, please wait a moment, it will be ready soon,¡± Lin Mi hurriedly left the ward.


    The man who usually maintained a composed demeanor seemed off.


    Was he actually losing his temper now?


    Moreover, Lin Mi noticed that Quan Shaoqing often sneaked smiles recently, or his face would darken, his mood swinging drastically, overcast and unpredictable, making him tread on eggshells, afraid to engage in much conversation with him.


    *


    ¡°Dammit!


    Out of fuel.


    Stingy Quan Shaoqing, couldn¡¯t you have at least filled up the tank?¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s car got stuck at the traffic light intersection because it ran out of gas and wouldn¡¯t start.


    She was infuriated.


    Behind her car, a long line of vehicles formed with everyone honking their horns urging her to move, yet she was stuck at the intersection because the car was out of gas.


    Gu Xiaoxi opened the car door, walked up to the car behind hers, and looked at the man sitting inside, saying, ¡°Dude, lend me some cash.


    My car¡¯s out of gas, I didn¡¯t bring any money, and I can¡¯t call for a tow.¡±


    She had checked; this car was also a limited edition luxury car, valued no less than the Blue Dragonfly, surely belonging to someone wealthy.


    Wealthy people wouldn¡¯t nitpick over such trivial matters, so she figured borrowing some cash was a sure thing.


    The person in the driver¡¯s seat was dressed androgynously, wearing a white shirt and short cropped hair.


    Their features were so beautiful it was hard to tell if they were male or female, so Gu Xiaoxi directly called out ¡®dude¡¯.


    ¡°Little sister, asking ¡®sister¡¯ for a loan means you¡¯ll have to pay interest.


    And your Iron Horse 999 is only sold as a single unit worldwide; asking me for money while driving such a car makes ¡®sister¡¯ quite flattered!¡± The person¡¯s voice was clear and resonant, filled with magnetism.


    A streak of frustration slid down Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s forehead¡ªthe jerk was actually a man.


    At the same time, she glanced back at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s black luxury car.


    Only one unit sold worldwide?


    Iron Horse 999?


    What the hell was that?


    She considered herself quite knowledgeable; there wasn¡¯t a luxury car she didn¡¯t recognize.


    Yet she had no idea what was so special about this car?


    All she could tell was that it had a nice feel and excellent performance, guaranteed to take first place in a race.


    ¡°Young lady, don¡¯t use such tactics to get close to our young master.


    We encounter several girls like you every day,¡± the driver said disdainfully as he rolled down the window.


    Gu Xiaoxi sized up the flamboyant man in the car and a sneer formed on her lips, ¡°With his looks, tsk tsk tsk... Forget it if you won¡¯t lend the money.


    I¡¯ll ask someone else.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi turned to leave.


    And her words were deliberately half said, half kept, obviously showing her disdain for the person in the car.


    The driver trembled with rage, pointing at Gu Xiaoxi and chattering his teeth, ¡°To stoop to such despicable means to gain the young master¡¯s attention.


    Young Master, don¡¯t be fooled by her, she¡¯s just trying to upset you on purpose.¡±


    What the fuck!


    Never seen someone so narcissistic.


    Gu Xiaoxi wasn¡¯t in the mood for further conversation with them; the guy who was obviously effeminate was worshipped to the skies by the driver.


    Indeed, crazed fans are terrifying!


    Yeh Bai¡¯s eyes twinkled with a brilliant smile as he reached out and grabbed Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s arm, ¡°Little sister, if you¡¯re talking about borrowing a hundred thousand or even a million, I don¡¯t have that, but ten or eighty thousand is no problem.¡±


    ¡°You help me call a tow truck and fill up a tank of gas, and before midnight I¡¯ll pay you back twenty thousand,¡± Gu Xiaoxi declared, turning with a heroic tone.


    Right now, the situation was urgent, and the incessant honking from the car behind her was irritating.


    As long as he was willing to help, she could let go of her grievances against him.


    ¡°Sure!¡± Yeh Bai smiled and immediately took out his phone to call the nearest tow truck.


    After ten minutes, the car was towed to a gas station.


    ¡°I¡¯m Gu Xiaoxi.


    Give me your number.


    I¡¯ll pay you back tonight,¡± Gu Xiaoxi moved forward and said with a touch of gratitude.


    ¡°No need, I¡¯ll go with you to get the money,¡± Yeh Bai leaned casually in his luxury car, a pair of peach blossom eyes brimming with smiles, making him appear as warm as sunshine.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked speechlessly at that bewitching face, ¡°I definitely can¡¯t go back home, so if you insist on following, go ahead!


    Even if you don¡¯t, I¡¯ll surely repay you.¡±


    ¡°...¡± Yeh Bai just squinted and smiled.


    Gu Xiaoxi drove ahead, while the driver behind her, Yeh Bai, was in a dilemma.


    ¡°Young Master, why bother with such a girl?


    She¡¯s obviously after you,¡± the driver said.


    ¡°Not necessarily!¡± Yeh Bai chuckled lightly.


    The Iron Horse 999 was Quan Shaoqing¡¯s car, unique in the world, and no one else had been able to replicate it.


    Interested in meeting a girl who dared to drive Quan Shaoqing¡¯s car out in the open streets without even enough money for gas, he got behind the wheel.


    After all, no one had ever been so audacious as to park Quan Shaoqing¡¯s car on the street with no money for fuel.


    To Yeh Bai¡¯s surprise, Gu Xiaoxi drove straight to the famous Century Race Track.


    Gu Xiaoxi told the staff, ¡°My name is Gu Xiaoxi, I¡¯ve already registered online.


    We agreed that tonight at seven, I¡¯ll challenge your CN155 track.¡±


    The staff member gave Gu Xiaoxi a look, ¡°Miss, are you sure you want to participate?


    Although there¡¯s a prize of two hundred thousand if you succeed, we take no responsibility for any accidents if you fail.¡±


    ¡°I know, so can we start now?¡± asked Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°Of course!¡± The staff member led Gu Xiaoxi into the race track.


    The track she was about to challenge was the high-difficulty CN155, which no one had ever completed.


    It had a one-kilometer-long bridge in the air, spiraling from a diameter of three hundred to thirty meters and including a section with a 90-degree slope, as well as three discontinuous segments.


    No one had ever dared to take on such a track.


    Even those who attempted it ended up with both car and driver destroyed.


    Lin Mi, who had been keeping tabs on Gu Xiaoxi, heard the report from his subordinate and was scared enough to immediately inform Quan Shaoqing, ¡°Superior officer, Gu Xiaoxi has gone to the Century Race Track; she wants to challenge the CN155.¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s voice rose as he spoke, grabbing his phone to dial Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s number.


    But it went to voicemail.


    ¡°Damn it, get someone to stop her.


    She¡¯s biting off more than she can chew.¡±


    Lin Mi was also terrified as he made calls to urgently stop Gu Xiaoxi, fearing the unimaginable consequences should anything happen.


    Turning around, Lin Mi saw Quan Shaoqing getting dressed, ¡°Superior officer, don¡¯t go.


    I will handle it.


    Your wound has only just started to heal; do you want to reopen it?¡±


    ¡°I need to see for myself.


    I should have never let her take the car.


    She really needs to be taught a lesson,¡± he thought she might at most go race a little, but he never expected her to go and challenge the CN155 track.

 Chapter 10 - 10 009 Challenge 2

    ?10: 009 Challenge (2) 10: 009 Challenge (2) Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s car was stopped in the middle of the race track, ready to step on the gas, when a young man suddenly rushed out to stop her, ¡°Miss Gu, you can¡¯t go, it¡¯s too dangerous.¡±


    ¡°Move aside, do you hear me!¡± Gu Xiaoxi glared at him and barked coldly.


    ¡°I won¡¯t move, the superior officer has ordered, you cannot go,¡± the man said seriously.


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes, scoffing, ¡°He actually sent someone to follow me?¡±


    ¡°Miss Gu, the superior officer is doing this for your own good.


    Please don¡¯t joke with your own life.¡± The soldier who secretly followed Gu Xiaoxi was nearly in tears at this point.


    Gu Xiaoxi half-closed her eyes, gazing at the man with eyes shining like jewels, rippling with murderous intent.


    Her foot slammed down on the accelerator, and she charged forward.


    The soldier, terrified, felt his legs go weak, wanting to flee, but remembering Young Master Quan¡¯s orders, he bravely closed his eyes.


    ¡°Screech!...¡±


    The grating sound of car tires rubbing against the ground blared, and the soldier felt a strong gust of wind blow past, causing his body to shiver uncontrollably.


    Standing bewildered in the middle of the road, grateful to be alive, he slowly opened his eyes to find Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s car had already passed him and was on the track behind him.


    How exactly did she drive past?


    He stood in the center of the road, with no more than two meters distance on either side, wondering how she managed to do it.


    Meanwhile, the crowd outside was virtually exploding with screams.


    Time rewound to ten seconds earlier, as Gu Xiaoxi stomped on the gas and charged straight ahead.


    With the soldier in the middle of the road, her car suddenly tilted sideways with the tires scraping the edge of the track¡¯s railing, swiftly flying past the soldier, sharp like a knife blade.


    The scene was nothing short of breathtaking.


    In everyone else¡¯s eyes, this was a particularly overbearing entrance, and everyone thought it was designed by Gu Xiaoxi.


    Therefore, the scene was boiling over with excitement just because of her one move, with screams that could topple mountains and overturn seas.


    Little did they know, the soldier¡¯s heart was collapsing.


    He had staked his life and still failed to stop her.


    How was he to face the consequences...


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s car shot out like a bullet; on the broken bridge, Iron Horse 999 seemed to sprout wings, effortlessly leaping over.


    On the ninety-degree angled surface, her car was moving even faster than before as it sped across, and when it reached the looped bridge surface, the Iron Horse suddenly slowed down, sliding down gently in a buffering motion.


    Eventually, the speed picked up, accelerating on the final loop and then shooting over the broken bridge, before sprinting down the single track and successfully completing the race.


    Her time was merely nine minutes.


    The series of maneuvers was as smooth as flowing clouds and seemed effortless.


    When her car came to a steady stop at the finish line, the previously noisy venue was so silent that even the rustling of the distant tree leaves could be clearly heard.


    Everyone was stunned, too excited to speak for a moment.


    Gu Xiaoxi pushed open the car door, looking at the dazed staff nearby, furrowed her brow, and asked uncertainly, ¡°The time was a bit long, does this count as a successful challenge?¡±


    ¡°...¡± Hearing this, the staff member nearly choked on his own blood.


    She was complaining the time was too long after passing like that.


    How were those who had failed to challenge before supposed to live?


    Comparing oneself to others can indeed be infuriating.


    The staff member nodded vigorously, his face turning red with excitement, ¡°Counts, counts!


    Miss, you are the champion of our event this year.


    You not only win 200,000 in prize money, but also get a recommendation for the world racing scene.


    There, you will be able to win a great prize and an even more prestigious title.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Gu Xiaoxi smiled, crossing her arms nonchalantly, ¡°Compared to that, I¡¯d rather have the 200,000.¡±


    It was then that the people around finally caught on, and their screams reached for the skies.


    ¡°Simply amazing.


    I never imagined the racer would be a girl.¡±


    ¡°So strong, nine minutes, a five-kilometer CN155 track.


    This is the most spectacular car race I¡¯ve ever seen.¡±


    ¡°On a ninety-degree incline, she actually sped through at 120 yards¡¯ speed, shifting gears so quickly it¡¯s astonishing, all while maintaining balance.


    She truly is a master.¡±


    Everyone was discussing it animatedly.


    Gu Xiaoxi collected her prize money, and as for the recommendation ticket to the world racing stage, she casually tossed it onto the passenger seat.


    ¡°Here, I promised I¡¯d pay you back twenty thousand.¡± Gu Xiaoxi handed over two stacks of banknotes to Yeh Bai.


    Yeh Bai smiled and waved his hand, ¡°Actually, I didn¡¯t do much, just called a tow truck for you and filled up a tank of gas, which altogether costs less than two thousand.


    You¡¯re giving me so much, I can¡¯t really accept it!¡±


    ¡°Take it, my word is my bond.¡± Gu Xiaoxi grabbed Yeh Bai¡¯s hand and stuffed the money into it.


    Seeing Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s serious expression, Yeh Bai could no longer refuse, although he had followed her just to find out about her relationship with Young Master Quan, and it really had nothing to do with money.


    But now, seeing her expression, if he didn¡¯t accept it, the girl would definitely not let it go.


    She looked like someone who doesn¡¯t like to be indebted to others, ¡°I¡¯ll hold onto it if you insist, but how about I treat you to dinner tonight?


    We can celebrate your successful challenge!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi touched her chin, glanced at Yeh Bai, and seeing that it was getting late, she briskly declined: ¡°No need!


    I¡¯ve got other things to take care of!¡±


    Having said that, Gu Xiaoxi hopped into her car and, with a push of the accelerator, she and the car vanished into the night.


    Yeh Bai¡¯s driver stared dumbfoundedly after Gu Xiaoxi.


    At that moment, only admiration filled his eyes, but before he could even speak to the Goddess, she had disappeared.


    ¡°Young Master, it seems like she rejected you.


    Looks like she¡¯s really not into you,¡± the driver said sheepishly.


    Yeh Bai gazed into the night, his eyes danced with pleasure, ¡°No worries, my interest in her is all that matters.¡±


    ¡°What?


    Young Master, she rejected you!¡± the driver exclaimed.


    ¡°I know!¡±


    ¡°No one has ever rejected your invitation before.¡±


    ¡°Well, there¡¯s a first time for everything, isn¡¯t there?¡±


    ¡°So, are you serious about her?¡±


    ¡°Quit nagging and let¡¯s head back.


    Get someone to thoroughly investigate her background for me.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    By the time Young Master Quan arrived at the scene, Gu Xiaoxi was nowhere in sight.


    The man stood in the silent racetrack, staring blankly at the CN155 track.


    Up to this point in City A, only one person had successfully tackled this track, the once legendary racer, Lu Xi.


    However, he had retired many years ago, and no one knew where he went.


    Now, Gu Xiaoxi had breezed through this track so effortlessly, it truly caught him off guard.


    Just how many more secrets did this girl have?


    Surprisingly, he too was unable to obtain all the information about her.


    ¡°Superior officer, are you alright?


    Your wound is bleeding again, the doctor has already ordered you not to move around,¡± Lin Mi said, her voice full of concern.


    Shaoqing just waved his hand, his gaze never leaving the track: ¡°I¡¯m fine!¡±


    Now that he knew Gu Xiaoxi was safe, he felt at ease.


    Just now, he genuinely got a scare from her.


    For the first time in twenty-six years, he felt fear, and it was all because of Gu Xiaoxi, worrying about her safety...

 Chapter 11 - 11 010 Encounters a Thief

    ?11: 010 Encounters a Thief 11: 010 Encounters a Thief Challenge successful, Gu Xiaoxi took the remaining 180,000 to the shopping mall, purchased many items, and then found a hotel to crash in.


    For two consecutive days, aside from eating, she just slept, never stepping out of the hotel.


    On the third day, the dawn¡¯s light streamed through the window, casting a golden sunshine on the bed like a mother¡¯s warm hand caressing her delicate cheek.


    Gu Xiaoxi turned over in bed comfortably, counting the days, three days remained until the seven days were up.


    As long as these three days passed, Quan Shaoqing would no longer be able to intervene in her affairs.


    By then, she would return to Luocheng to sort out her family¡¯s matters, then head to BD Film Academy to formally become an actress, aspiring to be a big star in the future.


    Gu Xiaoxi opened the hotel door to find two people standing outside.


    ¡°Miss Gu, our Young Master is looking for you.


    Please come with us,¡± a black-clad bodyguard stepped forward and said respectfully.


    ¡°Looking for me?


    And who might your Young Master be?¡± Gu Xiaoxi asked.


    ¡°Our Young Master is Xia Xingze, and he¡¯s requesting to race you on Panshan Road.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m not interested,¡± Gu Xiaoxi, with hands in pockets, nonchalantly walked past the two bodyguards towards the elevator, heading to the restaurant.


    Her retreating figure was like a statue carved from ice, proudly solitary.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s breakfast consisted of millet porridge with a plate of steamed buns and a basket of dumplings, her favorites, which she enjoyed immensely.


    She had money, and felt no interest in racing with others, confident no one could surpass her.


    ¡°Miss Gu, do you think I¡¯m not worthy to be your opponent?


    I want to tell you that last night, I also challenged the CN155 track and finished in eight minutes.


    That¡¯s one minute faster than you,¡± a nearly 1.9-meter-tall youth suddenly appeared in front of her, his stature alone intimidating.


    ¡°So what?


    By simply studying my technique and repeating my actions, even if your time was a minute faster.


    You are not the first one to surpass me,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said casually, biting into her steamed bun.


    Xia Xingze¡¯s face turned pale in an instant, his hands clenching under his sleeves, veins standing out.


    He had to admit, the girl was arrogant, excessively so.


    ¡°Miss Gu, whether you agree or not, this race is set.


    It¡¯s seven o¡¯clock now, four hours from now, on the suburban Panshan Road, I¡¯ll be waiting for you.


    This is the real challenge, and if you don¡¯t show up, I can assume you¡¯re scared,¡± Xia Xingze approached her, hands bracing coldly against the table.


    He looked at Gu Xiaoxi with utter seriousness.


    ¡°Childish, provocation won¡¯t work on me,¡± Gu Xiaoxi lowered her head and continued her breakfast, genuinely uninterested in the race.


    ¡°Panshan Road, with its 9 turns at 45 degrees, a 90-meter track that¡¯s only four meters wide, waterways along the route, sandy gravel paths in the mountain gorges, and a 60-degree incline, do you dare to come?¡± Xia Xingze¡¯s voice trembled with uncontrollable excitement.


    He viewed racing as life, and when encountering a formidable person, he yearned to surpass them, as such an opponent was truly challenging.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s astonishing performance a few days ago had exceeded him by far, and he was desperate to win against her, anxious to outdo her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t disturb my breakfast!¡± Gu Xiaoxi said coldly, waving her hand dismissively.


    ¡°Because you¡¯re strong, that¡¯s why I consider you an opponent.


    If you¡¯re afraid of losing to me, in the future when we meet, I¡¯ll call you a coward,¡± Xia Xingze, unable to stir any interest in Gu Xiaoxi, exclaimed angrily.


    ¡°Get lost!¡± Gu Xiaoxi, picking up a steamed bun, flung it at Xia Xingze¡¯s face.


    Xia Xingze caught the bun deftly, his large eyes earnestly looking at Gu Xiaoxi, his expression more serious than ever, ¡°I¡¯ll wait for you!¡±


    With that, Xia Xingze strode away.


    Gu Xiaoxi stood dumbfounded by the dining table, recognizing that look in his eyes¡ªthe craving and persistence for victory.


    Furrowing her brows, Gu Xiaoxi watched Xia Xingze¡¯s departing figure.


    How deep was his love for racing to show such an expression?


    Would he not rest until they raced?


    Gu Xiaoxi pursed her lips, uninterested meant uninterested.


    After breakfast, Gu Xiaoxi set out to find BD Film and Television Academy, but after driving in circles on the main road for several turns, she got lost.


    What frustrated her even more was that Quan Shaoqing¡¯s car navigation was password-protected.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like it¡¯s classified military information, why set a password?


    Show off!¡± Gu Xiaoxi clenched her fist towards the navigation system, cursing vehemently.


    What she didn¡¯t know was that it indeed contained military secrets.


    Gu Xiaoxi had no choice but to stop the car by the roadside to ask for directions.


    ¡°Excuse me, do you know how to get to BD Film and Television Academy?¡± Gu Xiaoxi asked a girl who appeared to be about her age.


    ¡°One hundred bucks for one question!¡± The girl, with shoulder-length shaggy hair and a height of one meter seventy, looked exceptionally tall and also quite slender.


    She snapped her fingers, and her sparking large eyes showed nothing but avarice and fawning towards Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi casually pulled out three banknotes from the bag on the passenger seat and stuffed them generously into Song Jingyi¡¯s hand, ¡°Here!¡±


    ¡°Turn left from here, drive along the main road for twenty minutes, then turn right at the traffic light intersection.¡± Song Jingyi replied to three questions in one breath, smilingly looking at Gu Xiaoxi while neatly folding the banknotes back into her pocket, ¡°Any more questions?


    I know a lot more...¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi chuckled coldly, then pulled out another banknote for her.


    ¡°Turn right at the traffic light intersection, go straight for eight hundred meters...¡± Song Jingyi paused.


    Clearly, the address wasn¡¯t complete yet.


    One hundred bucks a sentence, she dared to ask for it.


    Gu Xiaoxi continued to hand over money, ten times in total, before Song Jingyi finally explained the directions clearly.


    Gu Xiaoxi sized up Song Jingyi and prepared to get back in the car and leave.


    However, Song Jingyi placed her hand on the car door and pointed at the car¡¯s front, ¡°Miss, your license plate has been stolen, didn¡¯t you notice?¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Gu Xiaoxi furrowed her brows and walked towards the front of the car.


    Stolen license plate?


    She hadn¡¯t paid much attention, so she believed it and went to check.


    But the flashy 999 license plate was hanging there at the front of the car, not stolen at all.


    Gu Xiaoxi turned around alertly to look at Song Jingyi, who was already clutching her purse and escaping swiftly through the crowd.


    ¡°...¡± Gu Xiaoxi was thunderstruck.


    She had been robbed in broad daylight?


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes dangerously, crossed her arms, and watched Song Jingyi¡¯s retreating figure.


    She stomped her foot with force, leapt, and chased after the escaping Song Jingyi through the crowd.


    Interesting, to have fooled her...


    that was some skill.


    To Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s surprise, Song Jingyi was a fast runner, racing into the crowd swift as the wind and quickly vanishing.


    It was as if she evaporated into thin air.


    Gu Xiaoxi stood at the bustling intersection, her gaze sweeping around, then quickly turned and chased into a quaint alley.


    Indeed, ten minutes later, she successfully intercepted Song Jingyi at the entrance of a secluded alley.

 Chapter 12 - 12 011 Competition

    ?12: 011 Competition 12: 011 Competition Gu Xiaoxi stood at the bustling crossroads, her gaze sweeping the surroundings before she quickly turned and chased down a quaint alleyway.


    Sure enough, ten minutes later, she successfully intercepted Song Jingyi at a deserted alley entrance.


    *


    Ten minutes later, Gu Xiaoxi emerged from the alley.


    Her back was straight, her eyes shimmering with moisture like the stars in the summer sky¡ªdeep, cold, dark, yet concealing a brilliance of ten thousand rays.


    Gu Xiaoxi, empty-handed, returned to her Overbearing Iron 999.


    She plopped down into the driver¡¯s seat, squinted her eyes, and recalled the moment, ten minutes earlier, when she had intercepted Song Jingyi.


    To dare to steal from her was something she couldn¡¯t let slide.


    Though Song Jingyi was also not bad in combat, she still ended up getting beaten until she was searching for her teeth on the ground.


    But what then, after the beating?


    When the matron of the orphanage, along with a group of disabled children, rushed to her, clinging to her legs, they explained the truth, begging her to let Song Jingyi go, pleading with her not to take the money back.


    It turned out that in the corners of the streets lived children abandoned by their parents, disabled and without money for medical treatment, without decent food, or even a proper piece of clothing¡ªliving itself was a pain for them.


    Yet those children still lived with resilience, like seedlings sprouting from the crevices of rocks, enduring countless trampling, never bowing their heads.


    And Song Jingyi, a thief, a liar, took on the burden of supporting the lives of over a dozen disabled children with her own life.


    She would rather be beaten to death than give up the money she had acquired.


    At eighteen, Gu Xiaoxi recalled that part of her memory which had been sealed away for fifteen years.


    She was abandoned by her father on the streets during a winter¡¯s day, the biting cold wind slicing through her as she huddled in an abandoned box at the street corner.


    She hated the darkness, feared the Evil Ghosts of legend, and was even more scared of the lonely, cold winter nights.


    She prayed for God to send someone to rescue her.


    And she was lucky.


    A beautiful woman appeared, reached out to her, and took her home, providing her with a warm bed and tender love.


    She thought, had she not been saved, would she have also frozen to death on the streets, living in hunger?


    The Iron 999 raced through the streets, kicking up dust, and before Xia Xingze on the outskirts of Panshan Road, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s car stopped overbearingly.


    ¡°I accept the race, but I want to raise the stakes,¡± Gu Xiaoxi lifted her head, her delicate face showing nothing but seriousness, yet as always, it was tinged with arrogance.


    ¡°Whatever you want.


    I have money!¡± Xia Xingze raised his hand excitedly, a look of generosity on his face.


    As long as Gu Xiaoxi was willing to race him, he didn¡¯t care about the money.


    ¡°Ten million!


    If you lose, I want ten million!¡± Gu Xiaoxi declared.


    Xia Xingze hesitated upon hearing this, ten million was not a small figure, he could afford it, but it wasn¡¯t something to be squandered carelessly.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t agree, there¡¯s no point to our race.


    Excuse me, I won¡¯t accompany you,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said, about to start her car and leave.


    Xia Xingze hurriedly blocked the front of her car and said, ¡°I agree!


    What¡¯s your stake?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi only gave a few absent-minded words.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need a stake.


    Because, I will definitely win!¡±


    ¡°...¡± Xia Xingze was stunned; indeed, that was quite bold.


    The racing scene was crowded, many car racing enthusiasts had heard the news and rushed over.


    Everyone wanted to witness the pinnacle showdown between two masters who had conquered the CN155 track.


    Gu Xiaoxi unexpectedly saw Yeh Bai inside, whom she had met just a few days ago.


    From afar, Yeh Bai waved to Gu Xiaoxi, his peach-blossom eyes brimming with tenderness, ¡°Good luck!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi chuckled lightly, turned her head nonchalantly, and drove towards the starting point of the race track.


    Panshan Road was not an easy route; the most difficult parts were the forty-five-degree corners, three water crossings, and a narrow four-meter-wide path winding along the cliff¡¯s edge.


    Any one of these challenges could lead to a fatal crash with one careless move.


    But Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t even furrow her brow.


    With the whistle¡¯s blast, the Iron 999 roared and sped off, quickly taking the lead and racing down the mountain.


    Xia Xingze was not to be outdone; his speed increased and at the second bend, he even managed to overtake Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°Not bad technique, worthy of being an opponent,¡± Gu Xiaoxi pressed on the accelerator, approaching the first challenge, the forty-five-degree corner.


    Her car miraculously stood on its end, spun a beautiful black bear roll, and flew past the corner.


    The speed and skill left the onlookers dumbfounded, screaming in excitement.


    Xia Xingze¡¯s car was not to be outshown; it suddenly transformed into a spherical shape, rolled out from the forty-five-degree corner, and successfully passed the challenging bend as well.


    Both cars coolly displayed eye-opening stunts.


    Gu Xiaoxi finally took this challenger, Xia Xingze, who appeared at her doorstep out of nowhere, seriously.


    The shape of his car was clearly defined, the lines elegant, not different from an ordinary luxury car at first glance.


    Only upon closer inspection could one see that it was made from special metal, not belonging to any well-known luxury car models, yet capable of shape-shifting.


    From an ordinary car changing into a sphere to navigate the forty-five-degree corner and then returning to its original form.


    And Xia Xingze handled his driving skills with utmost finesse.


    And Xia Xingze also witnessed the extent of Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s driving skills¡ªa truly admirable technique.


    Being able to stand a car on a single wheel and then so accurately calculate the trajectory of the car, she was definitely not to be underestimated, a good opponent indeed.


    A narrow cliffside road.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s car was the first to rush over, on the winding road that was only as wide as a car.


    If one misjudged even slightly, they would plunge down the cliff with the car, dying without a place for burial.


    Gu Xiaoxi drove steadily, with Xia Xingze closely pursuing, his technique not a hair¡¯s breadth inferior to hers.


    Then, the two cars passed the narrow cliff road and faced the three segments of gravel water roads in the mountain valley.


    The most dangerous was the third waterway; passing it meant victory, but failing to cross would lead to the car being swept away by the rushing streams in the valley, falling down a bottomless waterfall.

 Chapter 13 - 13 012 Because I have been abandoned before Second update ask for votes and comments

    ?13: 012 Because I have been abandoned before (Second update, ask for votes and comments) 13: 012 Because I have been abandoned before (Second update, ask for votes and comments) The most dangerous was the third water segment, having made it through meant victory, but failing to do so could result in the car being swept away by the torrential stream in the valley and plummeting down a ten thousand-feet waterfall.


    Meanwhile, at the finish line of the race.


    Two men wearing duckbill caps were hiding behind a large rock.


    ¡°The boss ordered to kill Gu Xiaoxi, Brother Yong, are you sure this will do the job?¡± A man with a sneaky look touched his nose nervously.


    His eyes kept shifting towards the third water segment, gleaming with a fierce light.


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯ve already pushed a large rock into the water.


    She will definitely be the first to rush out, and when her car hits the rock, she¡¯s a goner,¡± said the man called Brother Yong with certainty.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s car and Xia Xingze¡¯s car stopped at the entrance of the water segment.


    The water segment required top-notch skills and was the final test.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, I¡¯m going to win,¡± Xia Xingze suddenly raised his head and let out a wild laugh, the body of the car became flattened, like a small boat, rushing forward at top speed.


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes at Xia Xingze, to be honest, his car was awesome.


    Especially on this kind of bizarre mountain road, it was all advantages and no disadvantages for him.


    Her car, however, only surpassed ordinary ones in terms of performance and speed.


    What¡¯s more, it was Quan Shaoqing¡¯s car, and she still hadn¡¯t been able to completely master it.


    This kind of race was indeed unfavorable to her, especially the water segment, which was basically akin to seeking death.


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes and smiled, thinking she could win like this?


    Xia Xingze, your brain is for thinking, not for showing off.


    After Xia Xingze¡¯s car charged out, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s car quickly reversed, backing up to five hundred meters away.


    ¡°What¡¯s with Gu Xiaoxi?


    Giving up?¡±


    ¡°Knowing she can¡¯t win, so she decided not to race, right?¡±


    ¡°Just giving up like that, is this the Gu Xiaoxi who challenged CN155?


    Is this still our Goddess in our hearts?¡±


    At this moment, the spectators were utterly disappointed.


    Gu Xiaoxi simply watched silently as Xia Xingze crossed the second water segment and charged toward the final water segment.


    Gu Xiaoxi suddenly smiled, a smile so dazzlingly beautiful that no one had ever seen her smile with such unrestrained joy before.


    Then, she floored the accelerator, and the Steel Horse 999 bolted out.


    Yeh Bai held a telescope, his gaze constantly following Gu Xiaoxi, and at that moment he was standing there dumbfounded.


    The young woman¡¯s face, her smile, he would never forget it for the rest of his life.


    What kind of smile was it, after all?


    Indescribable, confident, wild, proud, radiant, brilliant, as if for a moment all the light in the world was dimmed in comparison.


    ¡°Young Master, did she really give up?¡± asked the driver, disappointment filling his eyes.


    ¡°No, she will win,¡± Yeh Bai said.


    He was just a girl, he barely knew her, and he didn¡¯t know where the courage in his heart came from to be so firmly convinced that she would win.


    Just when everyone thought Gu Xiaoxi would give up, her car suddenly charged at the water segment at maximum speed.


    It was like a sharp sword, the whole car skimming the water¡¯s surface with the momentum of inertia, astonishingly making it across the stream in the valley, and then speeding towards the second water segment with the same velocity.


    Her speed was astonishing, so fast it left onlookers speechless, unable to believe their own eyes.


    That car speeding off just like her own person, an unforgettable sight of wild shock.


    Just as Gu Xiaoxi charged toward the third water segment, Xia Xingze¡¯s car hit the large rock in the middle of the stream due to overconfidence, because he was too fast, his entire car was smashed to pieces, and he was ejected from the vehicle, falling into the stream.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s quick reflexes spotted Xia Xingze¡¯s anomaly, and in the moment her car skimmed across the water¡¯s surface, she pushed open her own door, bent down and in one quick motion pulled the man out from the water, flooring the gas pedal to head straight for the finish line not far ahead.


    The hair-raising scene left people open-mouthed in disbelief!


    It felt so surreal, like a dream.


    That young woman, how did she do it?


    Xia Xingze, clutching his head, was terrified, although he had been rescued, he couldn¡¯t calm his heart.


    He had lost!


    Not in skill, not in equipment, but in composure.


    Impatient for success and craving victory, he failed to conquer his own heart, blinded by fame and profit.


    He finally understood a principle, a true strong person doesn¡¯t show off strength, nor are they driven by fame...


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, this is ten million.¡± Xia Xingze, though injured all over, still endured the pain and signed a check for Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi accepted it with indifference, the admiring voices around her not causing a ripple in her eyes, as if all of this had nothing to do with her, what she always wanted was the check.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, let¡¯s be friends!¡± Xia Xingze offered his hand to Gu Xiaoxi.


    He would only do this out of respect for an opponent.


    Gu Xiaoxi crossed her arms and thought for a moment, then waved it off blandly, ¡°We¡¯ll talk after you recover from your injuries!¡± With those words, she turned and strode away.


    It was a gentle rejection.

 Chapter 14 - 14 013 So I dont believe it!

    ?14: 013 So I don¡¯t believe it!


    14: 013 So I don¡¯t believe it!


    The two men hiding behind the hillside exchanged a glance, their eyes full of resentment.


    They hadn¡¯t expected Gu Xiaoxi to escape danger so easily.


    ¡°What do we do now, Brother Yong?¡± the man with the thief-like eyes asked anxiously, ¡°If we don¡¯t complete the task, we¡¯re as good as dead.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll go back and grab Song Jingyi.


    She¡¯ll definitely return there after getting the money,¡± the man known as Brother Yong said, clenching his fists with murderous intent.


    ¡°How do you know she¡¯ll go back...¡±


    Mu Yong gave a sinister smile.


    He had been following Gu Xiaoxi all along, starting from her reluctance to race against Xia Xingze, her encounters with Song Jingyi, and all of her behavior¡ªit was easy for anyone to guess what she was planning...


    Who would¡¯ve thought she¡¯d be so eager to help?


    Gu Xiaoxi left without much interaction with anyone else.


    Yeh Bai instructed his driver to follow her, trailing her all the way to the military district compound in City A.


    Not wanting to enter, he intercepted Gu Xiaoxi in the underground parking garage, ¡°Miss Gu, may we have a talk?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi lifted her face, her eyebrows furrowed, her eyes cold and distant, ¡°Please speak if you have something to say!¡± she said in a very polite tone.


    Yeh Bai¡¯s face darkened.


    No one had ever spoken to him with such an unfriendly tone.


    His thin lips trembled for a moment, too angry to utter a word.


    She could change faces faster than flipping through a book, ¡°I...


    want to tell you that someone is trying to harm you.


    It was impossible for there to be any obstruction in that waterway.


    If they knew you well enough, they would¡¯ve designed the trap not for Xia Xingze but for you.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi crossed her arms and playfully raised her eyebrows, ¡°If that¡¯s all you wanted to say, you may leave now.¡±


    She already knew all this.


    ¡°...¡± Yeh Bai was stunned.


    Did she have to be so unapproachable?


    ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯ll be leaving.¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s slender fingers toyed with the car keys, disappearing as swiftly as a gust of wind.


    Yeh Bai watched her retreating figure, frustration gnawing at him.


    He had intended to offer kindness, and she had casually rejected it?


    Yeh Bai¡¯s driver was equally shocked, not knowing what to say.


    His young master Yeh Bai, with dual doctorate degrees, a military doctor with an outstanding medical record, from a prestigious family, and a senior colonel highly sought after by the women of City A¡ªone of the notable figures in town¡ªhad just been rejected by a little girl.


    And for the second time?


    Gu Xiaoxi kicked open the door to Shaoqing¡¯s hospital room and was surprised to find it empty.


    The prepared meal sat on a table to one side, four dishes and a soup still steaming hot.


    Just as she was hungry, she walked over, picked up the chopsticks, and began eating.


    As Quan Shaoqing walked in, he saw Gu Xiaoxi eating.


    The girl had her head lowered, her dark hair falling over her chest, and her skin was so fair that not a single pore was visible.


    Eating with grace yet lacking concern.


    ¡°Bring another set of bowls and chopsticks!¡± Shaoqing instructed Lin Mi, who was standing behind him.


    Lin Mi immediately turned and left.


    Gu Xiaoxi merely glanced up at him briefly and continued eating.


    Quan Shaoqing sat down opposite her, his voice gentle, ¡°Have you thought it through?


    Have you come back?¡±


    ¡°No, I have no intention of leaving with you,¡± Gu Xiaoxi replied firmly, looking up with a steadfast gaze.


    Quan Shaoqing thought her eyes were very dark, and quite rare, as impenetrable as a pitch-black night, making it difficult to understand her thoughts.


    She was the only girl that he found somewhat enigmatic.


    ¡°Give me a reason!¡± Shaoqing demanded.


    Gu Xiaoxi paused, placing her chopsticks down, and after a moment, her lips curled into a smile that, while radiant, was full of mockery and desolation.


    She quietly uttered a few words, ¡°I don¡¯t trust men!¡±


    Because she had been abandoned, she had lost her trust!

 Chapter 15 - 15 014 The middle-aged man has a fiery temper

    ?15: 014 The middle-aged man has a fiery temper 15: 014 The middle-aged man has a fiery temper Quan Shaoqing¡¯s motion of picking up food for her paused, and after a moment, he put the meat into her bowl, his voice deep and husky, ¡°Xiao Xi, do you think I would hurt you?¡±


    He put down his chopsticks and tenderly reached out his hand towards Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi sat on the stool, her body slightly rigid.


    She stared at Quan Shaoqing, suddenly finding herself unable to look away.


    The golden afternoon sun slanted through the window, falling on the man, making his already handsome features even more exquisitely perfect, as if a god had descended to the Mortal World.


    He reached out to her with a gentle smile on his face, friendly and tender.


    Suddenly, she recalled the first time she met her mother as a child, who had also reached out to her with a tender smile, making her feel warm...


    Gu Xiaoxi instinctively reached out her hand and he grasped it.


    His hand was different from her mother¡¯s, very broad and warm, the heat in his palm enveloping her small hand as if bathed in sunlight, very comfortable.


    Gu Xiaoxi felt her eyes grow warm, mist swirling in her gaze, allowing Quan Shaoqing to lead her to the window.


    ¡°Look at the city before you, it¡¯s vast, filled with many people.


    There are bad people, but also good people.


    There are the happy and the unhappy.


    No matter who has hurt you in the past, it only shows that person did not know how to cherish you,¡± Quan Shaoqing said, patting her shoulder as if to give her strength.


    Gu Xiaoxi lifted her eyelashes and looked out at the distant city, from the top floor of the hospital, the majority of the city was within view.


    He was right!


    So did that mean, she could trust him?


    ¡°If I trust you, will you cherish it?¡± Gu Xiaoxi tilted her head, her eyes intently fixed on his face as she asked in return.


    ¡°I will definitely cherish it!¡± His face bore a gentle smile, his tone as solemn as a vow.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s lips curved into an overbearing smile, and she gripped his hand in return, ¡°Are you confessing to me?¡±


    ¡°Confessing?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing pursed his lips, his face darkening, he grabbed her shoulder in a buddy-like manner, patting her head while a playful light flickered in his eyes, ¡°Thinking of being my wife?


    You¡¯re still too green.¡±


    ¡°You think I¡¯m too young?¡± Gu Xiaoxi clenched her teeth and grabbed the front of his shirt, standing on tiptoes trying to regain her dignity, yet standing in front of him, she only came up to his chest.


    Still a child, aren¡¯t you!


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you young?¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s eyes gleamed with mischief, his beautiful lashes casting shadows over his scornful yet indulgent gaze, ¡°Tsk tsk, still much too young.¡±


    A whole lot shorter than him indeed!


    Delete...


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes, perhaps she could try trusting Quan Shaoqing, after all, he was good-looking.


    She might as well trust him for now!


    After having her meal and putting down her chopsticks, Gu Xiaoxi went out and met a worried Lin Mi at the door of the ward.


    Without a sideways glance, she coolly flicked her hair, tossed her head, and with hands in her pockets, turned and left the hospital.


    Quan Shaoqing!


    She¡¯d be back after she took care of her business.


    From then on, she would have a keeper again.


    The feeling of being kept by Quan Shaoqing...


    Hmm!


    Gu Xiaoxi blinked, thinking it shouldn¡¯t be too bad!


    The domineering Iron Horse 999 motorcycle was parked at the orphanage entrance, Gu Xiaoxi strode in, holding a check, her mood unusually light, humming a tune.


    But to her surprise, the already dilapidated orphanage was a complete mess inside, flower pots shattered all over, even the kids¡¯ dining bowls were strewn about, an ominous premonition arose spontaneously.


    Gu Xiaoxi rushed inside, searching every nook and cranny of the orphanage, only to find it completely empty.


    ¡°Song Jingyi, Xiao Ai!¡± Gu Xiaoxi called out anxiously.


    She had been here before, and although it was relatively poor, it was always kept clean and housed many children.


    But now...


    ¡°...¡± The only answer she got was the cold wind.

 Chapter 16 - 16 015 Zookeeper Hug Part 1

    ?16: 015 Zookeeper Hug (Part 1) 16: 015 Zookeeper Hug (Part 1) ¡°...¡± A faint sound arose from a corner not too far away.


    Gu Xiaoxi immediately turned her head, her eyes landing on the corner where two dilapidated cardboard boxes were shaking incessantly.


    She strode forward, lifted the cardboard boxes, revealing two little girls around four or five years old hiding inside.


    Their eyes, wide with fear, huddled together.


    ¡°Are there others with you?¡± Gu Xiaoxi pulled the two children out of the boxes and asked anxiously.


    ¡°Two bad people took everyone away.


    Sister, please, you have to save them quickly.¡± One of the little girls burst into tears with a wail.


    Anger flared up in Gu Xiaoxi ¨C who would do such a thing?


    To not even spare children with disabilities.


    She took out her cell phone to dial the emergency number.


    Meanwhile, in another abandoned incomplete building, Mu Yong led four subordinates and locked a group of disabled children in a room used for storing materials.


    Song Jingyi, who had been injured under Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s watch, was now tied up and couldn¡¯t move.


    The group of children, in fright, huddled together, looking as though they wanted to cry but dared not to.


    ¡°Brother Yong, do you think Gu Xiaoxi can find this place?¡± a man with a sneaky look asked.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you leave an address?¡± Mu Yong questioned.


    ¡°I thought you left her a clue...¡±


    ¡°Fuck!


    What the hell are you good for!¡± Mu Yong exploded in anger.


    This bunch of idiots, always so unreliable.


    ...


    The police arrived in no time.


    As for Gu Xiaoxi, she went to the small shop across from the orphanage and searched through the footage of the orphanage¡¯s front gate.


    It was a van with the license plate H52541 that had taken the children away.


    Once she found the van, things would be easier.


    Gu Xiaoxi borrowed the use of the internet cafe? in the small shop from the owner and, utilizing her hacking skills, began to hack into the surrounding surveillance systems, tracking the van, until she finally found the location...


    ¡°Miss Gu, are you sure the kidnappers went that way?¡± Police officer Zhang Lin asked uncertainly.


    After all, he had just arrived, and Gu Xiaoxi had located the target so quickly.


    Gu Xiaoxi nodded, then turned to mount her Iron Horse 999 without waiting for him to speak, and with a twist of the throttle, she shot out.


    Half an hour later, the police surrounded the unfinished building.


    Gun in hand, Mu Yong¡¯s eyes were cold; he hadn¡¯t expected Gu Xiaoxi to find him so quickly and to have alerted the police too.


    Now there was no time to think too much ¨C his gang, the Gunsmoke Gate, had always been at odds with the police.


    If they had come, they would deal with them all the same.


    ¡°Let Gu Xiaoxi come over by herself.


    If anyone else dares to take a step forward, I will kill a hostage,¡± Mu Yong, cunning and ruthless, dragged out Song Jingyi as the first hostage.


    An injured person, heartlessly stepped on by Mu Yong, with a gun pointed at their head.


    Zhang Lin looked at Gu Xiaoxi and said worriedly, ¡°You can¡¯t go, it seems they intend to target you.


    Now that the hostages are in their hands, you can¡¯t be impulsive.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi, hands in her pockets, glanced up at the six-story unfinished building and smirked devilishly, ¡°Hand me your megaphone.¡±


    Zhang Lin didn¡¯t know what she was up to, turned around, and handed it to her.


    Although young, her serious and arrogant demeanor was not to be underestimated.


    Gripping the megaphone tightly, Gu Xiaoxi coldly addressed Mu Yong, ¡°I don¡¯t care who you are, but if you dare harm those inside, I will make you regret being born.¡±


    After speaking, Gu Xiaoxi tossed the megaphone back to Zhang Lin and walked towards the unfinished building.


    Zhang Lin grabbed her hastily and said angrily, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, right?


    Do you realize that everyone inside is a criminal?


    Going in like this, not only can you not save anyone, but you will also be putting yourself in danger!


    Get back here.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi turned and sized him up with a glance before finally fixing her gaze steadily on his eyes, speaking in a calm tone, yet with an authority that could not be ignored, ¡°I¡¯m not going.


    What are you going to do about it, wait until they¡¯re all dead before you go?


    Are those all handicapped children?¡±


    Zhang Lin¡¯s body stiffened as he dully stared into Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eyes, very dark, shiny black.


    He thought they were the most beautiful eyes he had ever seen.


    Every word she said was a key point.


    Right!


    Mu Yong had specifically named Gu Xiaoxi to come, and if she didn¡¯t go, the consequences would indeed be severe.


    And if he rashly stepped forward, he might also enrage Mu Yong, putting the hostages in danger.


    ¡°Let go!¡± Gu Xiaoxi spat out the two words coldly and turned to stride toward the place Mu Yong had designated.


    Zhang Lin felt his palm go empty; the girl had already walked far away.


    Her figure was slender but stood as straight as a pine.


    The setting sun illuminated her like a luminous body, almost making her too dazzling to look at directly.


    Gu Xiaoxi stood on a deserted plain, facing the upstairs Mu Yong with her hands spread open and squinting with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m here.


    Can you release all of them now?¡±


    ¡°Hmph!


    It¡¯s not that simple, I know how cunning you are.¡± Mu Yong sneered coldly, stomped hard on Song Jingyi¡¯s head, and looked at Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°I¡¯ll cripple you first, then release them.


    In the meantime, if you dare resist at all, I¡¯ll kill one, starting with this injured woman here.¡±


    Mu Yong pressed the gun harshly against Song Jingyi¡¯s head.


    A sharp, cold light flashed through Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eyes, fleeting, yet the faint smile on her face remained.


    She shrugged indifferently, ¡°I have nothing on me; do as you please.¡±


    Mu Yong gestured with his eyes for several subordinates to rush at Gu Xiaoxi.


    Two subordinates pinned down Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s body while another started to punch and kick her.


    Furthermore, Mu Yong used the lives of the hostages as a threat, preventing Gu Xiaoxi from fighting back and not allowing the police to make a move.


    Instantly, the scene took a decidedly one-sided turn.


    Military Region Hospital


    Lin Mi reported to Quan Shaoqing with a pained expression, ¡°Miss Gu is in trouble; someone¡¯s taken the orphanage children hostage to threaten her.


    She¡¯s in the midst of a fight with them right now!¡±


    ¡°Whose men are they?¡± Quan Shaoqing didn¡¯t even wait to change his clothes before he headed out of the hospital room.


    ¡°They should be Gunsmoke Gate¡¯s people.


    Zhang San is dead, and Dong Xiaorui has suffered heavy losses; this is them sending their underlings for revenge,¡± Lin Mi explained.


    ¡°Why is this only being reported now!¡± Quan Shaoqing wished he could fly to Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s side immediately; he had not expected the enemy to move so quickly, and Gu Xiaoxi had foolishly fallen into their trap.


    ¡°...!¡± With a pained expression, Lin Mi cried out injustice; he had taken a group of doctors to vent Quan Shaoqing¡¯s anger, and he¡¯d been punished to do a thousand push-ups.


    It wasn¡¯t until he was finished that he received the call, naturally, it was late...


    *


    Zhang Lin watched as Gu Xiaoxi got beaten until her nose was blue and her face swollen, and eventually, she passed out.


    Anxiously wanting to negotiate with Mu Yong, he found that the other party was impervious and grimly held onto the hostages, leaving him too scared to act rashly.


    A ratty-looking man saw Gu Xiaoxi faint and ordered two subordinates to carry her upstairs, throwing her down in front of Mu Yong.


    Mu Yong pressed down hard on the trigger, a sinister smile on his face, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, Gu Lirou¡¯s daughter, I never thought you would die by my hand.


    Compared to your mother, you¡¯re far inferior.


    If you hadn¡¯t meddled in affairs that weren¡¯t your business, you wouldn¡¯t have invited this deadly disaster upon yourself.


    And your poor mother, she died without ever knowing who wanted to kill her!¡±


    ¡°Boss, kill her quickly, and we¡¯ll have completed our mission,¡± Mu Yong¡¯s four subordinates surrounded Gu Xiaoxi and laughed raucously, as if they were traitors reveling in victory.


    At that moment, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s tightly closed eyes suddenly snapped open, filled with killing intent and a cold harshness as sharp as a blade¡¯s edge just as Mu Yong hadn¡¯t yet managed to pull the trigger.


    The girl on the ground, with a bruised face and full of injuries, leapt to her feet in a sweeping leg motion, kicking all four men flying away.


    By the time Mu Yong¡¯s subordinates realized it, the gun that had been in their boss¡¯s hands was somehow now in Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s possession.


    Gu Xiaoxi stood with one foot on Mu Yong¡¯s back and the other on his hand, pinning him to the ground like a cockroach, unable to move.


    ¡°Do you know how my mother actually died?¡± Gu Xiaoxi moved the gun to the top of Mu Yong¡¯s head, her voice brimming with murderous intent.

 Chapter 17 - 17 016 Zookeeper Hug Part 2

    ?17: 016 Zookeeper Hug (Part 2) 17: 016 Zookeeper Hug (Part 2) Mu Yong struggled with all his might, but to his surprise, he could not move at all.


    He had no idea what demon art Gu Xiaoxi had used, but just one foot pressing down on him rendered him completely powerless.


    At that moment, Zhang Lin had led the police in a charge to catch Mu Yong¡¯s subordinates and start rescuing everyone.


    Whereas Gu Xiaoxi was completely immersed in her own problems, her eyes flashing red, like a wolf on the brink of rage, ¡°Won¡¯t talk, will you?


    I¡¯ll make you wish you were dead.¡±


    She gradually increased the pressure under her foot on Mu Yong, making him feel as if all his internal organs were shattered, yet he couldn¡¯t die.


    After just two minutes of torture that felt like death, Mu Yong broke out in a cold sweat and began to beg for mercy, ¡°I only know what the boss told me.


    Gu Lirou appears to be in the antique business on the surface, but in reality, she is the number one hacker of the AIA association.


    She offended people from some organization...


    I really don¡¯t know exactly how she died or who harmed her.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes dangerously.


    She had checked the accident scene after her mother¡¯s death; the person responsible had also died¡ªit indeed seemed like an accident.


    Could it be that this ¡®accident¡¯ was actually orchestrated by someone?


    She had never left Luocheng since she was a child.


    Her mother was often not at home and would find her a master to keep her company and take care of her, teaching her martial arts and such before she left.


    So, she couldn¡¯t remember how many masters she had had.


    She had always thought that Gu Lirou was merely a businesswoman dealing in antiques, but unexpectedly she heard about...


    the AIA association.


    What exactly was that place?


    Gu Lirou never let her come into contact with the outside world, saying, ¡°Xiao Xi, Mom just wants you to be able to do what you like happily.


    Being a star is good, at least you don¡¯t have to live amid gunfire and bullets.¡±


    At the time, she couldn¡¯t understand the meaning behind her words.


    Now, she sort of got it.


    Mu Yong, seeing that Gu Xiaoxi wasn¡¯t moving and felt his bones were about to be crushed, numb all over, said, ¡°This is all I know, Gu Xiaoxi.


    If you kill me, our boss will never let you off.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi scoffed, crouched down, grabbed Mu Yong by the collar, and asked, ¡°What¡¯s your boss¡¯s name?¡±


    ¡°I know!


    Dong Xiaorui, Gunsmoke Gate is a famous drug trafficking organization with many core members, and people like Zhang San who died recently were core members of it,¡± Zhang Lin explained.


    Upon hearing this, Gu Xiaoxi dropped Mu Yong, knocked him out with a swift chop, turned around, and looked at Song Jingyi who was already at her last breath on the ground, ¡°Are you okay?¡±


    Song Jingyi¡¯s face was covered with dust, and she was in so much pain from her injuries that she was nearly unconscious, yet she still tried to hold on, staring wide-eyed at Gu Xiaoxi.


    She had to admit, the gap between her and Gu Xiaoxi was more than just a little bit.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, there will come a time when I will be tougher than you,¡± Song Jingyi vowed through gritted teeth.


    Gu Xiaoxi laughed, ¡°Oh, got some spirit, have we?


    No need to compare, your thieving and deceiving skills are definitely better than mine.¡±


    Pfft!


    Song Jingyi was so angry that she spat blood on the spot, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, I¡¯m injured all over because of you, do you have no conscience at all?¡±


    ¡°You deserve it.


    If you dare to steal from me again, I will definitely cripple you.¡±


    Song Jingyi: ¡°Damn!¡±


    The highest level of disability is not being disabled, but being wasted.


    Song Jingyi was about to pass out from anger.


    She had finally understood Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s way of doing things¡ªinfuriating people without paying for their lives, and beating them up with all the justification in the world.


    Gu Xiaoxi seriously picked Song Jingyi up off the ground, her movements rough and unsympathetic, without a shred of pity.


    Song Jingyi, with teeth bared and grimacing, cursed Gu Xiaoxi a million times in her heart.


    She became a thief and a liar out of desperation, forced by the circumstances¡ªhow was that fair?!


    Dammit!


    Where was your compassion?


    It¡¯s about time it came back from running away from home!


    The police were comforting the frightened children, while Song Jingyi was lifted into the ambulance.


    Gu Xiaoxi pulled a check for ten million from her bosom and stuffed it into Song Jingyi¡¯s hand, ¡°This is for the orphanage, hold onto it and don¡¯t lose it.


    If you dare steal from me again, see if I don¡¯t beat you to death.¡±


    Song Jingyi felt the weight of the paper in her hand, though she did not know where Gu Xiaoxi had gotten so much money.


    However, her every action, every look in her eyes, was unforgettable to her.


    Even though she was always harsh with her words, she truly wanted to help the children.


    This was the greatest and most indebted favor of all.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, I¡¯ll remember you.


    One day, I¡¯ll make you respect me,¡± Song Jingyi gripped the check in her hand, her dark eyes shining with determination.


    ¡°Pfft!¡± Gu Xiaoxi flipped her hair, too lazy to pay attention to her.


    At this moment, her ankle was swollen, and the pain had made her take off her shoe to sit on a large rock by the road to examine the wound.


    She had been beaten up by Mu Yong¡¯s subordinates just before; although she wasn¡¯t half-dead, she had certainly lost a layer of skin.


    ¡°Are you all right!¡± Zhang Lin was arranging for someone to take care of the children and suddenly saw Gu Xiaoxi sitting on the roadside rubbing her foot.


    He quickly went over to check, and saw that her ankle was already swollen red.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take you to the hospital to have a look!¡± Zhang Lin said anxiously.


    ¡°No need, I¡¯ll drive myself there.


    You should take care of the kids; there are many injured people,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said nonchalantly as she rubbed her foot.


    Even though the injury was serious, she was already used to it.


    For someone trained in martial arts, a bruised nose and a swollen face were nothing out of the ordinary.


    It was at this time that Quan Shaoqing hurried over with his men, only to find that the situation had already been resolved.


    Gu Xiaoxi was sitting on the ground, her clothes filthy and several bruises on her face.


    Seeing him arrive, she opened her arms from afar and called out, ¡°Zookeeper, come give me a hug!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing walked over and stood in front of her, looking her up and down, ¡°What happened to you?


    You got beaten up!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s face darkened as she glared at him, ¡°Can¡¯t you not point out people¡¯s shortcomings?¡± If she hadn¡¯t been afraid that the children would get hurt, she would have cleaned up those scumbags long ago.


    Quan Shaoqing squatted down, reached out, and lifted Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s foot to look at the wound, ¡°You¡¯re badly hurt.


    Hopefully, you¡¯ve learned your lesson this time, try running around recklessly again next time.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi eyed Quan Shaoqing¡¯s handsome profile with irritation, grinding her teeth.


    Was he starting to control her already before anything had even begun?


    A moment later, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s mouth curled into a mischievous smile, ¡°Uncle, have you stopped having nosebleeds now?¡±


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi!¡± Quan Shaoqing was about to reach out to hold her, but her words immediately made him withdraw his hand.


    He was so furious that he was hopping mad, ¡°Don¡¯t call me Uncle!¡±


    Was he really that old?


    He was at most eight years older than her.


    What a look!


    ¡°Then what should I call you?


    Dear Zookeeper?


    Shaoqing?


    Ah Qing?


    Daddy?


    Mommy?...¡± Gu Xiaoxi squinted her eyes and smiled wickedly, finding it very amusing to tease Quan Shaoqing.


    At his age, to still be so innocent...did he even have a girlfriend?


    Had he ever dated?


    But she had to admit, with his looks, if he said he was twenty, everyone would probably believe him.


    ¡°...!¡± Quan Shaoqing was grinding his teeth.


    The shadow in his heart was growing larger.


    It seemed this girl needed to be taught a lesson!


    Lin Mi covered his face with his large palm, unable to watch anymore.


    Sensibly turning away, he picked up Zhang Lin, who stood there stunned by Quan Shaoqing¡¯s rage, and took him to the side to inquire about the situation.


    He just couldn¡¯t understand it; every time, with just a few words, Gu Xiaoxi could infuriate a man who was usually unflappable.


    Indeed, there is always something to subdue something else in this world.


    Thinking of Quan Shaoqing, who commanded the respect of many, his pride and stature imposing, even he had a day when he was stepped on.


    And he was so willing to be trampled on; wasn¡¯t this self-inflicted torture?

 Chapter 18 - 18 I like it here

    ?18: I like it here.


    18: I like it here.


    Ha ha ha!


    There will be good shows to watch in the future.


    Lin Mi couldn¡¯t help but snicker.


    It¡¯s just that those thousand push-ups were so unjust!


    Who can tell him why the fine Young Master Quan wanted to punish him?


    ¡°Keeper!


    I¡¯ve injured my foot!¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s voice was very pleasant, crisp and soft.


    Especially since she was injured, with a swollen nose and face, blinking her watery big eyes, it made his heart break.


    Quan Shaoqing sighed helplessly and stepped forward.


    Just as he reached out his hand, Gu Xiaoxi climbed into his arms like a nimble monkey, her legs wrapped around his waist and her arms around his neck, looking at his steely face, ¡°Do you really have the heart to ignore me?


    Shaoqing, I won¡¯t call you ¡®uncle¡¯ anymore.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s mouth twitched.


    He suspected he might have brought a wolf into his house.


    Did this thing even know how to spell ¡®dignity¡¯?


    Normally, others would be as scared of him as grandsons but in front of Gu Xiaoxi, it was he who seemed like the grandson.


    He picked her up horizontally with his hand and commanded with a cold face, ¡°No fooling around!¡±


    Seeing that he was truly angry, Gu Xiaoxi pouted and simply kept silent, nestling in his arms.


    She closed her eyes, rested for a moment, and felt the arms holding her were strong and gave a sense of security.


    She had never been held by a man as she grew up.


    She had always felt her mother¡¯s hands were warm, something she could never forget in her lifetime.


    And this man, it was also so comfortable in his arms, being held by him was like spring had come, even warmer than her mother¡¯s hands.


    ¡°Keeper, you changed cars again?


    You don¡¯t want your Iron Horse 999 anymore?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing had just put Gu Xiaoxi in the car, and this thing was as curious as a country bumpkin entering the city, poking her head around here and there, touching this and looking at that.


    Quan Shaoqing sat on the sofa inside the car, legs crossed, and said calmly, ¡°The new Z0 model, the Iron Horse 999 is practically scrap now.¡±


    ¡°Crap!¡± Gu Xiaoxi rolled her eyes.


    Just how rich was this guy?


    The Iron Horse 999 configuration was more than twice as good as the Blue Dragonfly, and he had the nerve to tell her it was scrap.


    Gu Xiaoxi tapped her fingers and hopped on one foot to sit down next to Quan Shaoqing, smiling ingratiatingly, ¡°Shaoqing, when will you let me drive it?¡±


    ¡°It depends on your performance!¡± Quan Shaoqing glanced at her sideways, seriously.


    Gu Xiaoxi nodded vigorously, ¡°Whatever you ask, I shall do.


    How about I give you a kiss to show my love for you?¡±


    ¡°...¡± Quan Shaoqing swallowed, what on earth was this girl¡¯s head filled with?


    Doesn¡¯t she know that men and women should be differentiated?


    ¡°Come home with me and be obedient!¡± Quan Shaoqing said sternly.


    Gu Xiaoxi hugged Quan Shaoqing¡¯s arm, smiling accommodatingly, ¡°Sure, sure.¡±


    *


    Gu Xiaoxi lay in the hospital for three days under Quan Shaoqing¡¯s threat.


    Her foot injury healed.


    Quan Shaoqing was also ready to go home to recuperate.


    Thus, Gu Xiaoxi saw the home she would live in in the future.


    Occupying an entire hill, a luxurious villa like a palace stood three stories high, with a one thousand square meter swimming pool at the entrance, fragrant perfume roses on the left side, while a racetrack sprawled over the hill on the right, with peach trees planted along the road which, though flowerless in summer, bore full trees of peaches, heavy with fruit.


    Gu Xiaoxi, like an agile and sensitive cat, got out of the car and dashed to the lawn, spreading her arms with uninhibited joy in front of her new home, smiling radiantly.


    Moments later, she turned back to look at Quan Shaoqing, her eyes gleaming with mischievous light, ¡°If you had told me earlier your family was rich, I wouldn¡¯t have refused.


    I like it here!¡±


    She joyfully ran on the racetrack, passed through the beautiful Rose Garden, and played in the water at the fountain by the front gate.


    Quan Shaoqing watched her figure, his cold lips revealing a gentle, tender smile.


    She was indeed a naive girl, expressing her happiness so directly and boldly.


    But he liked it.


    Compared to those girls who were reserved yet filled with desire for this place, she seemed so real, likable, unrestrained, and lighthearted.


    Lin Mi stood behind Quan Shaoqing and exclaimed with a smile, ¡°Miss Gu really is special.


    Even her way of expression is so unique!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing smiled, without saying much, and strode towards the luxurious villa.


    Lin Mi smiled faintly, thinking that life here would certainly be exciting in the future.


    With such a wonderful person around, how bad could it be?


    Quan Shaoqing had always lived alone because he held a high position and was influential.


    In his presence, everyone was restrained, even afraid to speak more than necessary.


    Only with Gu Xiaoxi did he feel comfortable.


    Especially these past few days, he had noticed that they seemed like a natural family, with many unspoken understandings and complementing each other.


    Gu Xiaoxi strolled around the garden, then dashed energetically into the big villa.


    The interior decor, in pure European style, was dazzlingly luxurious, enough to blind someone.


    ¡°Shaoqing!


    Did you embezzle funds?


    This house must be worth at least ten billion!


    Isn¡¯t it said that soldiers are always poor?¡± Gu Xiaoxi said, touching an antique porcelain with shining eyes.


    All she could see was money!


    Damn, what luck to have stumbled upon a caretaker who came to her door and was much wealthier than she was.


    Hugging the thighs, she must cling onto these thighs immediately!


    Quan Shaoqing carried the tea out, glancing at Gu Xiaoxi sideways, ¡°Are you showing disdain?


    Who taught you that soldiers have to be poor?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi blinked, alright then, as if she never asked!


    Quan Shaoqing handed the cup to Gu Xiaoxi.


    She took it immediately but then set it on the coffee table.


    She walked up to him, wrapped her arms around Quan Shaoqing¡¯s neck, hanging in front of him like a little monkey, her black and shiny eyes full of fox-like slyness, ¡°Shaoqing, tell me.


    We are a family from now on, right?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s face darkened, the unique fragrance of the young girl wafting towards him; her soft body clung to him like a water snake, making him involuntarily stiffen and struggle to breathe.


    ¡°Let go!¡± His tone was cold and authoritative.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let go until you tell me.


    Are we a family from now on!¡± Gu Xiaoxi persisted, staring with determination.


    She was not afraid of him!


    Quan Shaoqing clenched his teeth and, with a stiff body, answered, ¡°Yes!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good!


    From now on, what¡¯s yours is mine, and what¡¯s mine is yours.


    Pinky swear!¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eyes sparkled as she grabbed Quan Shaoqing¡¯s hand, pinky linking with pinky, sealing it with a stamp.


    Because she was too excited and too happy, she jumped and kissed him on the forehead.


    (No choice, Quan Shaoqing was too tall, she couldn¡¯t reach while standing!)


    Quan Shaoqing was petrified on the spot.


    By the time he came to his senses, Gu Xiaoxi had already disappeared without a trace.


    This girl?


    How exactly should he educate her?


    Couldn¡¯t she express her liking and happiness a bit more subtly?


    He was a normal man!


    While he was deeply conflicted.


    Gu Xiaoxi stood on the golden railing of the second floor, waving at him and laughing like a demon, ¡°Keeper, when¡¯s dinner?


    I¡¯m hungry.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing touched his forehead, still feeling a faint warmth there, and found it not at all unpleasant.


    Looking at Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s beautiful face, a tenderness overflowed in his heart.


    He too was a lonely person.


    With her in his life, did that mean they now had someone to care for each other?


    This feeling was subtle, as if the door to happiness had opened and all they had to do was step inside to keep that happiness forever.


    Seeing him silent, Gu Xiaoxi stood on the second-floor railing, spread her arms, and jumped down without any hesitation.


    ¡°Keeper, you have to catch me!¡±

 Chapter 19 - 19 018 Was Tricked by Her Favorite Keeper

    ?19: 018 Was Tricked by Her Favorite Keeper 19: 018 Was Tricked by Her Favorite Keeper Quan Shaoqing only felt his heart leap to his throat in an instant, instinctively rushing forward, extending his hands.


    Who knew, Gu Xiaoxi landed lightly on the sofa beside him, like a little witch, laughing at him.


    ¡°Hahaha!


    Look how scared you are...¡± Under her long and curled lashes, a pair of watery large eyes looked mischievously spirited.


    The corner of Quan Shaoqing¡¯s mouth twitched.


    He was played by this rascal again.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, no dinner for you tonight!¡± Quan Shaoqing declared angrily.


    Gu Xiaoxi lay on the sofa, humming a tune, her posture devil-may-care, ¡°Then I¡¯ll just eat you!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing: ¡°...¡±


    He really wondered, how on earth did her mother educate her, not a bit like any girl should be.


    Isn¡¯t this just, a downright little ruffian, a female hooligan?


    Having spent several days with Gu Xiaoxi, Quan Shaoqing deeply understood the phrase about inviting the wolf into one¡¯s home.


    For example: One night, when it rained a little and thundered twice, Gu Xiaoxi ran into his bedroom with her blankets in tow, lying on his bed and taking up more than half of it.


    As the name suggested, she was scared and needed his company.


    As a result, he, who always lived alone, suffered insomnia all night long because of the troublemaker who appeared in his bed.


    Another example: The swimming pool was a place frequently visited by Gu Xiaoxi, who insisted on swimming for three hours every afternoon.


    Only her attire; the sexy bikini highlighted her devilish figure, making all the young soldiers standing guard stare wide-eyed.


    Which made Quan Shaoqing as angry as a thunderstorm; after lecturing Gu Xiaoxi for three hours, he personally invited a fashion designer to create several conservative swimsuits for her and ordered her to wear them before swimming.


    At this point, Quan Shaoqing deeply realized that being a guardian was truly no easy feat!


    So, he firmly decided to send Gu Xiaoxi to the military for a complete makeover, determined to transform this spoiled young lady into a graceful and refined woman.


    That morning, Gu Xiaoxi picked a handful of fresh flowers in the garden and placed them in the vase in the living room.


    Quan Shaoqing washed a large plate of peaches, placing them on the coffee table.


    Gu Xiaoxi admired the fresh flowers while picking up a peach to eat.


    Her life couldn¡¯t be more comfortable, not touching spring water with her fingertips, living carefree every day, even happier than a pig.


    Sometimes, just to drink water, all she had to do was call for a ¡°keeper,¡± and water would be served immediately.


    And Quan Shaoqing, he really pampered her with patience and dedication, cherishing her like a precious jewel.


    Even Lin Mi, who was standing by, couldn¡¯t bear to watch.


    Thinking of Quan Shaoqing in the military, with a high rank and esteemed status, he never gave anyone a good face, let alone pour water for someone.


    And now, in front of Gu Xiaoxi, wasn¡¯t he just like a perfect servant?


    Lin Mi¡¯s face was bitter, feeling sorrow for Quan Shaoqing¡¯s masochistic days...


    After Gu Xiaoxi finished eating the peach, she raised her hand high, the peach pit described a graceful arc and landed steadily in the trash can not far away.


    At that moment, Quan Shaoqing came downstairs, holding a beautiful bracelet made of special material.


    Seeing Gu Xiaoxi eating the peach with juice all over her hands, he immediately set the bracelet aside, pulled out a wet wipe, took her soft little hand, and patiently wiped it clean for her.


    Gu Xiaoxi lay on the sofa, squinting her eyes, her face happy and eyes curved with joy.


    She looked at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s handsome face and curiously asked, ¡°Keeper, haven¡¯t you ever found me annoying?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing looked up at her, ¡°A little, if only you could be a bit more obedient.¡±


    ¡°What?


    Are you saying I¡¯m not obedient enough?


    Just yesterday morning, I made breakfast according to your wishes, didn¡¯t I?¡± she said boldly.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s eyes twitched at the corners¡ªshe made breakfast?


    That had been a whim of hers, wanting to show off.


    In the end, she had cracked a hundred eggs, shells and all, mixed them together, and even burned them in the pan.


    It almost caused a fire.


    ¡°Girl, with me around, you don¡¯t need to do anything.


    Breakfast, lunch, dinner, I¡¯ll make sure you eat nutritiously and healthily.


    Your job is to just obediently listen,¡± Quan Shaoqing said, looking at her clean little hands, touching her head with a meaningful tone.


    The gesture was like petting a small animal.


    Gu Xiaoxi immediately swatted his hand away, grabbed Quan Shaoqing¡¯s sleeve with a smile, and said eagerly, ¡°Keeper, you¡¯ll spoil me this way.


    Mom said a girl should be capable of doing everything.


    If not, I can help you wash clothes.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s heart trembled for a moment, he affectionately flicked her forehead and hastily declined, ¡°Girl, you just need to be pretty, and the keeper will fatten you up nice and round.


    Come, look at the gift I got you.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s gaze followed Quan Shaoqing¡¯s movements, and she saw him take out a beautiful bracelet made of special material, carefully sliding it onto her wrist.


    And the bracelet had a movable clasp, which Quan Shaoqing secured once he had put it on her.


    Gu Xiaoxi raised her wrist, looking at it curiously, not knowing what material it was made of.


    ¡°Keeper, why did you give me this?


    It doesn¡¯t look like crystal, nor does it resemble jade,¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s attention was captured by the bracelet, completely missing the fleeting cunning in the man¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Do you like it?¡± Quan Shaoqing asked.


    ¡°I love it!¡± Gu Xiaoxi twirled the crystal bracelet, beaming with joy.


    Damn it...


    If she knew this was a high-tech tracker with an alarm system, made of special material that could only be removed by chopping off the hand or if Quan Shaoqing did it himself,


    She would never ever wear it.


    Indeed, in this world, there is nothing more deceitful than something even more deceitful.


    At that moment, she was blissfully unaware.


    It wasn¡¯t until many years later, when Gu Xiaoxi thought back on this incident.


    She still wanted to kill Quan Shaoqing over and over again, first seduce then murder, because at the time when she let her guard down completely, he had tricked her to the point where there was nothing left, not even bits of bone.


    At noon, Quan Shaoqing had taken Gu Xiaoxi to the supermarket and bought a lot of groceries, all things she liked to eat.


    In the evening, he personally cooked a big table full of delicious dishes.


    He even brought out his treasured, exorbitantly priced red wine.


    Gu Xiaoxi felt suddenly so blissful that it bubbled up inside her, even happier than when her mother was alive.


    After a satisfying meal and enough wine, she lay on Quan Shaoqing¡¯s thigh with intoxicated eyes, ¡°Quan Shaoqing, you¡¯re so good to me.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing gently stroked her soft hair, ¡°I just hope you won¡¯t hate me later.


    Xiao Xi, being a soldier is much more promising than being an actor.


    You know that?¡±


    ¡°But I only want to be an actor, a big star,¡± Gu Xiaoxi held Quan Shaoqing¡¯s hand, pouted her lips, completely drunk.


    In the end, she fell asleep in Quan Shaoqing¡¯s arms with a smile on her face.


    Quan Shaoqing glanced at Gu Xiaoxi, a hint of reluctance in his eyes.


    He thought, if she were to join the military, it might be a long time before they could see each other again.


    Over these days, he seemed to have gotten used to catering to this little ancestor, and the sudden thought of her leaving made him feel all the reluctance.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, I hope you won¡¯t disappoint me and that you¡¯ll carve out a place for yourself with your own abilities.


    I believe in you,¡± Quan Shaoqing said, and then looked back at Lin Mi.


    ¡°Bring the car around, and send her quietly to the new recruits¡¯ camp,¡± Quan Shaoqing ordered with a serious expression.

 Chapter 20 - 20 001 New recruits first day

    ?20: 001 New recruit¡¯s first day 20: 001 New recruit¡¯s first day Z Department, New Recruits Company.


    The early morning sunlight burst forth at daybreak, causing the national flag to shine brightly.


    In front of the solemn seven-story building, the expanse was vast and flat, and the soldiers on duty stood erect, their silhouettes as proud as the evergreen pines.


    Accompanied by a pair of loud reveille bugle calls, all the dozing soldiers were startled awake.


    Under the national flag, two men dressed in neat camouflage looked up at the women¡¯s dormitory on the sixth floor, their eyes filled with confusion.


    ¡°Wu Yi, the regimental commander just called.


    He said he received a confidential message from the superiors that a new girl sneaked in last night and we are to give her a good ¡®education.¡¯ Tell me, which family¡¯s pampered princess is this?


    Isn¡¯t this like passing us a hot potato?¡± Hu Ba was the deputy commander of the New Recruits Company.


    He wasn¡¯t sure how tough he should be regarding the ¡®education¡¯ the superior officer mentioned.


    The man called Wu Yi, with handsome features and a blade of foxtail grass in his mouth, sneered coldly, ¡°Who cares which immortal she is, we need to discipline her until she¡¯s completely obedient.


    This is the military, not a daycare; if she¡¯s not up to standard, it¡¯s better to send her packing early.¡±


    ...


    Upstairs, Gu Xiaoxi was awakened by the reveille.


    She sat up with a start, still somewhat confused.


    Was she still dreaming, or had she traveled through time in her sleep?


    Where was Quan Shaoqing?


    ¡°You¡¯re new here, right?


    Get dressed quickly.


    It¡¯s time for assembly!¡± Gu Mengchen looked at the bewildered Gu Xiaoxi and kindly reminded her.


    Gu Xiaoxi had a feeling something was amiss and was about to ask Gu Mengchen where she was, but the latter disappeared like a rabbit along with the other girls in the dormitory.


    Camouflage uniforms!


    Military whistle!


    Wasn¡¯t this the military?


    She had woken up to find herself here...


    Gu Xiaoxi reached out to touch her head, a bit perplexed, when suddenly she sprang from the bed like an indignant kitten.


    ¡°Where¡¯s my hair?¡±


    Her once gorgeous long black hair had been cut into a neat short style, which made her delicate little face look even younger and more vivacious.


    But!


    ¡°Damn!¡± She was going to be an actress; she needed long hair!


    Long hair...


    ¡°Quan Shaoqing!¡± her angry voice made the high-rise building tremble.


    No wonder he had been so nice to her.


    The weasel pays New Year¡¯s respects to the chicken¡ªno good intentions!


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at the troops already assembled outside and narrowed her eyes, sneering coldly.


    Did Quan Shaoqing think that by sending her to the army, she would be out of options?


    Hmph!


    She did not want to be a soldier.


    In front of the national flag, Wu Yi looked over the assembled recruits.


    His gaze fell on the women in the third row, ¡°Who¡¯s the new arrival, step forward and report!¡±


    ...


    Dead silence!


    ¡°Where¡¯s the new recruit?¡± Wu Yi shouted again.


    Gu Mengchen stepped forward, ¡°Reporting to the platoon leader, the new recruit hasn¡¯t gotten up yet!¡±


    A twitch crossed Hu Ba¡¯s lips, just as he expected¡ªa spoiled rich girl sent here, isn¡¯t this just inviting trouble?


    Wu Yi¡¯s face turned to iron, and his wolf-like fierce eyes shifted to the sixth-floor dormitory.


    ¡°Squad leaders, take your teams for a ten-kilometer run!¡±


    Afterward, as he watched the new recruits start their training, he turned and headed toward the sixth floor.


    Gu Xiaoxi had just finished dressing up, having no choice but to don a set of military uniform she found by the bedside.


    It fit her just right.


    Because her ears were always sensitive, she became alert the moment someone reached the sixth floor.


    After buttoning up the last button of the uniform, Gu Xiaoxi looked at the beautiful woman in the mirror and a sly, fox-like smile played across her eyes.


    Wu Yi kicked open the door to the dormitory, expecting the new recruit inside to jump in fright, but instead, a bucket of cold water poured down from above the door, drenching him to the bone.


    He saw the completely empty dormitory¡ªno sign of any new recruits.


    Not a soul from the dormitory to the bathroom.


    The bathroom!


    Wu Yi¡¯s gaze immediately fell on the bathroom window, which was without any anti-theft bars, making it big enough for someone to squeeze through.


    He quickly approached and knelt by the window to look down.


    He saw a nimble female soldier clinging to the ledge of a window on the floor above, leaping down with kangaroo-like agility, her movements fluid and precise.


    And then she landed steadily on the grass behind the dormitory building.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked up at the man with his wet hair, her lips curling into a faint smile.


    She pointed at his hair and mimicked a face-wiping gesture.


    Her demeanor couldn¡¯t have been more haughty or more infuriating.


    ¡°Sorry, I sleepwalked my way here last night.


    I¡¯ll be going now.


    Bye!¡± Gu Xiaoxi waved at Wu Yi, then turned and quickly ran towards the hill behind her.


    ¡°Good!


    Very good!


    Indeed, a spoilt brat!¡± Wu Yi, his face livid with anger, his phoenix eyes emanating a cold brilliance.


    He refused to believe that he couldn¡¯t handle a little girl.


    Gu Xiaoxi dashed into the woods, cursing Quan Shaoqing a hundred times in her heart.


    Damn it, she had to escape this godforsaken place.


    ...


    The Command Center of Division Z.


    The man stood in front of the window in a military uniform, his demeanor dignified.


    Before him lay the vast array of soldiers in rigorous training.


    Lin Mi looked at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s cold silhouette and quietly reminded him, ¡°Superior officer, according to the tracker¡¯s position, Miss Gu has left the new recruit company.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing, with his hands in his pockets, casually lifted his attractive eyelids, turned around with a slightly wicked smile, devilish yet sinister.


    ¡°That¡¯s good, that fits her character,¡± he said.


    Lin Mi was confused, ¡°But how are we to keep her here?


    Do you mean...¡±


    ¡°How is the combat effectiveness of our new Special Forces unit?¡± Quan Shaoqing turned to sit on a luxurious and comfortable sofa, reaching for the teacup on the table, and spoke nonchalantly.


    ¡°Flame Special Forces have been training for three months, half of them already eliminated.


    The remaining fifty members are the strongest elite sent from various units, and their performance indexes are very good,¡± Lin Mi reported.


    ¡°Where is Gu Xiaoxi now?¡±


    ¡°At high ground 1884, she¡¯s running quite fast, covering over thirty kilometers in one hour,¡± Lin Mi said with some admiration.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s long, jade-like fingers tapped on the mahogany desk sporadically, his lips curling into a roguish smile, ¡°Assign a mission to the Flame Army, high ground 1884, capture Gu Xiaoxi and safely send her back to the new recruit company.


    If anyone gets injured or disabled by her, they¡¯re directly eliminated!¡±


    ¡°This!¡± Lin Mi was startled, somewhat worried for Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°The Flame Special Forces are a bunch of fearless men.


    Miss Gu...¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi, delicate and weak, was a girl after all, and he feared she wouldn¡¯t be able to withstand them.


    But Quan Shaoqing just lightly sipped his tea, his bewitching features making his entire appearance seem both sinister and enchanting.


    ¡°Go!


    She won¡¯t be harmed.¡±


    Seeing Quan Shaoqing¡¯s confident tone, Lin Mi obediently turned to arrange the orders.


    ¡°Yes!¡±

 Chapter 21 - 21 002 Bro!

    ?21: 002 Bro!


    Watch out for the trap!


    21: 002 Bro!


    Watch out for the trap!


    The forest was still dewy in the early morning, and Gu Xiaoxi, agile and swift, fled through it, soaking her clothes.


    She climbed up a large tree with a sullen mood to survey the terrain.


    Damn it, the mountain range stretched on endlessly, where the hell had she run off to?


    Could anyone tell her if she was even on Earth anymore?


    Why was there not a single soul in sight?


    Gu Xiaoxi leaned against a tree branch to rest, having run for an hour and a half.


    She was hungry, tired, thirsty, and had not even found a single fruit.


    This little forest was even poorer than she was.


    Gu Xiaoxi thought, she had run so far that even the instructor who was so fierce just now couldn¡¯t catch up with her even if he had wings!


    And that was indeed the case!


    Gu Xiaoxi planned to rest for a moment before deciding what to do next.


    She had just closed her eyes.


    The buzzing sound of planes came from above!


    Gu Xiaoxi abruptly sat up, alert, gripping the tree branch tightly and hiding under the layers of leaves.


    Peeping through the gaps in the leaves, she stared at the five helicopters overhead.


    From the helicopters, soldiers in camouflage, fully armed, were parachuting down and landing in the forest around her.


    Gu Xiaoxi craned her neck, watching in shock.


    She counted roughly fifty men.


    What were these people doing here?


    Chasing her?


    She immediately shook her head in denial.


    She was just a soldier who hadn¡¯t even made a name for herself in the new recruits squad, was she worth such a massive mobilization?


    ¡°Everyone, pay attention, conduct a thorough carpet search.


    It¡¯s said to be a girl, and the orders from above are to go easy when you catch her,¡± Zhong Ming, the captain of the Special Forces, a man nimble and fierce as a tiger.


    ¡°...¡± When Gu Xiaoxi heard this, she was utterly dumbfounded.


    Weren¡¯t they here to chase her?


    In this godforsaken place, she was the only girl.


    The orders from above!


    It was probably Quan Shaoqing.


    Damn!


    Who else could have the authority, except for him, to deploy the Special Forces to catch her, a newbie?


    ¡°Quan Shaoqing, you¡¯re really ruthless!¡± Gu Xiaoxi ground her teeth as she lay motionless at the top of the tree, ready to take a nap.


    She refused to believe that they could find her hidden amidst the dense leaves.


    She completely overlooked the fact that there¡¯s a detector called the infrared thermal imager.


    After ten minutes, fifty men as fierce as tigers, holding N98 rifles, surrounded the twenty-meter radius around where Gu Xiaoxi was.


    ¡°Bang!¡± A blank round was fired directly at the branch where Gu Xiaoxi was lying.


    Gu Xiaoxi, who had just drifted into sleep, sprung up only to find nothing beneath her feet, and she plummeted from the top of the tree.


    ¡°Hahaha!¡±


    The men behind Zhong Ming couldn¡¯t stop laughing.


    They thought they were chasing someone formidable, but in the end...


    A simple blank round had scared her off the tree.


    Gu Xiaoxi, rubbing her sore butt, grimaced as she crawled out of the bushes with a few strands of grass sticking to her head.


    She glared at the group of men in front of her, her gaze full of mischief as she said, ¡°Guys, it¡¯s not nice to be so rough with a beauty!¡±


    ¡°Beauty!¡±


    Zhong Ming smiled, looked carefully, and sure enough, wasn¡¯t she a beauty?


    Her features were exquisite and her skin was pale; her large eyes shone brightly, more captivating than even the twinkling stars in the sky.


    ¡°Beautiful lady, where do you come from, and why are you deserting?¡± Zhong Ming asked with a smile.


    Gu Xiaoxi rolled up her sleeves with all seriousness, hands on her hips, ¡°Who told you I¡¯m a soldier?¡±


    Zhong Ming pointed at her camouflage outfit, ¡°This says it all!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s mouth twitched, and she hurriedly explained, ¡°I sleepwalked last night and accidentally entered the barracks of new recruits.


    When I couldn¡¯t find any clothes, I put on this.


    Let me emphasize one more time, I¡¯m not a soldier!¡±


    Her vivid expressions instantly amused the group of men bored with training.


    Her absurd excuse for deserting made her look both spoiled and adorable.


    ¡°Beautiful lady, no more excuses, let¡¯s go!


    Where you came from, that¡¯s where you¡¯ll return,¡± another Special Forces soldier said with a grin.


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes, a sly glint passing through them.


    She rubbed her sore, twisted waist and stepped forward, sizing up Zhong Ming, ¡°Did Quan Shaoqing send you?¡±


    ¡°Sorry, but we can¡¯t say,¡± Zhong Ming replied with a smile, feeling the name Quan Shaoqing sounded familiar but couldn¡¯t quite remember who it was.


    After all, that man high above was often mentioned, but nobody would call him by his name directly.


    ¡°Stop pretending!


    Take me to him,¡± Gu Xiaoxi demanded angrily.


    ¡°Our mission is to take you to the new recruits¡¯ squad,¡± Zhong Ming said firmly, gripping the gun in his hand.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked around at the circle of burly men and immediately felt a headache coming on.


    None of them reacted when she mentioned Quan Shaoqing, which meant they didn¡¯t know him.


    Being sent by someone but not knowing who that person is?


    Pathetic!


    With a good-natured lift of her head, Gu Xiaoxi looked up at Zhong Ming, her dark eyes filled with a pleasing smile, ¡°I was just sleeping in a tree when you guys caught me, which is a big loss for me.


    So, give me a ten-second head start to run; if you can catch me, I¡¯ll listen obediently to you.¡±


    That ingratiating smile was dazzling.


    Anyone familiar with her knew she was up to no good again.


    ¡°Girl, are you challenging us?¡± a Special Forces soldier burst into laughter, ¡°You really don¡¯t know how high the sky is or how deep the earth is.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m challenging you.


    If you catch me, not only will I follow you back obediently, but I¡¯ll also call you ¡®brother¡¯ whenever we meet,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said, her smile as bright as a flower, making her seem cute, foolish, and pretentious all at once¡ªan undeniably unruly spoilt young lady.


    Zhong Ming snorted coldly, eyeing Gu Xiaoxi with pride curling his lips, ¡°You run first, I¡¯ll count to ten.


    Start...


    one, two...¡±


    He couldn¡¯t believe this girl could stand it.


    Even if he gave her a minute, he was sure to catch up with her.


    If he didn¡¯t subdue her thoroughly, it looked like his task for the day wouldn¡¯t be easy to accomplish, especially since the person was a girl, and he had been instructed from above to be cautious.


    A foxy brilliance flashed in Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eyes as she turned on her heels and ran.


    Ten seconds were more than enough for her.


    The men saw the petite figure dart into the bushes like a rabbit.


    Her desperate and inelegant flight amused them all, who then burst into hearty laughter.


    However, after ten seconds, the laughter died.


    The girl who had dashed into the underbrush had vanished in the blink of an eye.


    What the hell!


    A group of men, mouths agape in laughter, froze in place, a gust of mountain wind passing through, lifting a few fallen leaves, leaving an air of desolation.


    ¡°Use the thermal imager!¡±


    ¡°Report, Captain!


    We can¡¯t find her!¡±


    Zhong Ming clenched his fists, suddenly dropping his rifle and sprinting after Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s escape route.


    But just as he leaped into the air and landed in the underbrush, he fell flat on his face into a pit.


    The fall was utterly inexplicable!


    Just moments ago, he saw Gu Xiaoxi flee through here without stumbling, yet he fell face-first into the mud.


    Meanwhile, Gu Xiaoxi, already 600 meters away, looked back at the man climbing out of the bushes and stuck out her tongue at him from a distance, ¡°Buddy!


    Watch out for holes!


    I¡¯m escaping, come and catch me if you can!¡±


    The men were fuming, their faces changing colors in unison.


    How could she run so fast?


    In barely twenty seconds, she had sprinted so far in the forest?

 Chapter 22 - 22 003 Old fox

    ?22: 003 Old fox 22: 003 Old fox Gu Xiaoxi ran wildly, using her fastest speed, and even utilized her special skill¡ªQinggong.


    As a child, her master forced her to learn it, never thinking there would actually come a day when it would be useful.


    Another two hours later, Gu Xiaoxi burst out of the forest, stopping in front of a massive two-story building, with legs weak from exhaustion and thirst.


    She looked at the tightly closed iron gate and walked up to it, raising her hand to knock briskly.


    ¡°Who is it!¡± A man over forty, wearing a military uniform and sporting a wildly bearded face, opened the iron gate and barked.


    He looked both fierce and difficult to get along with.


    ¡°Uncle, sorry to bother you.


    I just happened to be passing by and I¡¯m quite thirsty.


    May I have some water to drink?¡± Gu Xiaoxi immediately approached with a humble and pleasing demeanor, flashing the man a sweet smile.


    Big Beard scrutinized Gu Xiaoxi from head to toe, ¡°Which unit are you from?


    This is the Military Dog Base, and we can¡¯t just let outsiders in.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to enter, just two buns and a pot of water would be great!¡± Gu Xiaoxi said quickly, nodding and bowing.


    Big Beard saw that Gu Xiaoxi was pretty and polite, and her whole being exuded an air of casual and natural elegance.


    He nodded in satisfaction and said, ¡°Wait here!¡±


    The normally bad-tempered Big Beard was unexpectedly feeling generous.


    Behind the iron gate, two soldiers gaped in astonishment.


    If someone had come asking for water in the past, they would have been chased away without a second thought.


    Did the sun rise from the west today?


    To think he¡¯s actually showing kindness...


    The two soldiers peered through the crack of the door, and understanding dawned on them immediately after seeing Gu Xiaoxi.


    Such a delicate and pretty young girl, lovely and sweet-talking, ¡°Miss, where are you coming from?¡±


    As a soldier moved forward to chat her up, Big Beard, carrying water and buns, scolded them, ¡°You two, get back to feeding!


    What are you dawdling for!¡±


    The two soldiers exchanged a dejected look and turned away, pouting as they left.


    It was so rare to see a beautiful girl, and he couldn¡¯t even strike up a conversation?


    The uncle came out carrying six buns and a pot of water and handed them to Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Girl, are you on an exercise?


    Don¡¯t mention this was from me, or I¡¯ll get a scolding.


    Since I¡¯ve given, I¡¯ll give you a lighter too.


    Be careful at night, there¡¯s wildlife outside.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much!


    Uncle, you¡¯re really nice.


    I wish you happiness every day and to become more valiant.¡± Gu Xiaoxi patted on the flattery as vigorously as she could.


    ¡°Flatterer, get moving!¡± Big Beard looked Gu Xiaoxi over and shook his head, feeling that today¡¯s girls must be crazy, getting all dolled up to join the military, weren¡¯t they simply asking for misery?


    If Gu Xiaoxi had heard this, she would have wholeheartedly agreed.


    Gu Xiaoxi walked a few steps, then suddenly stopped and turned back to see the large gate about to close.


    She hastily asked again, ¡°Uncle, how long does it take from here to the city outside?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s far.


    Within a three hundred-kilometer radius, it¡¯s all Z department territory.


    After that, you¡¯d still need to take a bus for an hour to reach the city.¡±


    The iron gate closed with a bang, and the uncle¡¯s voice came from behind it.


    Gu Xiaoxi, holding the water jug, had a cold and intimidating look in her eyes.


    She bit her lip fiercely, grinding her teeth, while cursing Quan Shaoqing a thousand times in her heart.


    ¡°Achoo!¡± The man conducting a military meeting sneezed vigorously.


    This gave him another bad premonition.


    ¡°Everyone is dismissed.


    All units tighten up on training, and aim for excellent results in the World Military Competition.¡±


    ¡°Yes, superior officer!¡± Quan Shaoqing spoke, and the subordinates left one after another, saluting.


    When the conference room had emptied, Lin Mi came hurrying over to report, ¡°Superior officer!¡±


    ¡°Have you caught her?¡± Quan Shaoqing picked up the blue and white porcelain teacup, asking indifferently.


    ¡°She got away!¡± Lin Mi was ashamed!


    It was all because he had reminded everyone to go easy, and now fifty grown men couldn¡¯t even catch a little girl, who ran faster than a rabbit and couldn¡¯t even be chased down.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s hand paused as he lifted the cover of the teacup, then returned the cover, the sound of the porcelain clinking was especially clear in the silent conference room.


    Lin Mi broke out in a sweat!


    Quan Shaoqing narrowed his eyes and paused ominously, ¡°Where did she run off to?¡±


    ¡°It seems like she got lost, made quite a big circle in the forest.


    According to the positioning system, she passed by the Military Dog Base and is now heading south.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing took a sip of tea, and then looked out the window into the distance; by now, it was already three in the afternoon.


    They would chase, and she would run.


    This girl really did have a bit of wildness in her!


    ¡°Heading south?¡± Quan Shaoqing thought for a moment, then continued to ask, ¡°The Fourth Military Sixth Regiment is conducting exercises, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, for three days, and two days have already passed.¡±


    ¡°Just let her be!


    Don¡¯t bother with her for now.


    Once she¡¯s tired from running, we can bring her back,¡± Quan Shaoqing said as he put down his teacup, stood up, his back exuding a military might and his stature refined and noble.


    He turned and walked toward his command center, with Lin Mi immediately following.


    ¡°And what about Flame?


    They are still in the forest, because they didn¡¯t catch up with Miss Gu, and now everyone is furious...¡±


    Lin Mi was cut off mid-sentence as Quan Shaoqing lifted the corner of his mouth, turned to look at him with a flash of anger in his eyes, ¡°Fifty men let a little girl give them the slip.


    They don¡¯t deserve the name ¡®Flame.¡¯ These people, failing the assessment, should go back where they came from!¡±


    Damn!


    Lin Mi covered his face with a large hand, wishing he were dead.


    If he had known it would end like this, he would have never let them go easy on Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°It¡¯s all my fault, superior officer!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing scoffed, ¡°You don¡¯t need to explain, I know.


    Going easy on her is one thing, but failing to catch her is a fact.¡±


    *


    Lin Mi left Quan Shaoqing¡¯s command center with a pained expression on his face.


    Because of Gu Xiaoxi, Flame was about to be disbanded.


    Those fifty men would definitely not accept this disgrace...


    Lin Mi shook his head worriedly; this girl hadn¡¯t even officially enlisted and had already made countless enemies for herself.


    To think that these fifty were all elites from their respective regiments, and now being sent back for the reason of being fooled by a new recruit...


    the shame of it...


    What an interesting scene was about to unfold!


    Lin Mi touched his forehead, also feeling anxious for Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°Wait a minute!¡± Lin Mi suddenly turned back to look at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s command center, his mind flashing with inspiration.


    Damn it, this old fox had it all planned out, hadn¡¯t he?!


    In order to temper Gu Xiaoxi, he had gone to great lengths to lay out a path for her.


    In other words, he was really setting her up in a deadly trap!


    Lin Mi was at a loss for words...


    He suddenly felt a bit of sympathy for Gu Xiaoxi; having to deal with such an old fox was truly making things difficult for the spirited young girl.

 Chapter 23 - 23 Plan Step One

    ?23: Plan Step One 23: Plan Step One Gu Xiaoxi learned her lesson this time and stopped running around aimlessly.


    She made her way to a hillside, and as night fell, she could see a training camp two kilometers away.


    So, she contemplated sneaking in, then slipping into one of their supply vehicles to escape from the military camp.


    ...


    This time, she was determined to escape from Quan Shaoqing¡¯s clutches.


    After running for a day, her rations were gone, and she had finished her water.


    On the mountain, she caught a wild rabbit with ease, holding it in her hand.


    After descending the mountain, she skinned the rabbit by a small stream, then started a fire and began roasting it.


    The rabbit meat turned golden brown and glistened over the fire, emitting an enticing aroma.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked up at the silver moon hanging in the sky, a glint of sharpness passing through her eyes.


    Her keen hearing and sixth sense told her that there were people lying in ambush around her, and not just eight of them.


    What were they up to?


    If they didn¡¯t come out, she wouldn¡¯t bother them, just casually roasting her meat.


    Those hiding in the bushes were the Fourth Military¡¯s Seventh Battalion Reconnaissance Troops for the Red Army, currently engaged in an exercise with the Sixth Regiment Blue Army.


    The Red Army had been lying in ambush here for half the day, aiming to annihilate the Blue Army.


    Then, out of nowhere, came a green recruit who started cooking rabbit in the wild.


    The starving veterans all aimed their rifles at Gu Xiaoxi, who seemed oblivious as she finished roasting the rabbit and began to eat, oil smearing her mouth.


    The fragrance of the rabbit meat filled the air, and those hiding in the shadows collectively swallowed their saliva.


    Suddenly, ten men in camouflage surrounded her, their guns pointed at Gu Xiaoxi, and the leader hissed in anger, ¡°Which battalion, which company are you from?


    Why are you roasting a rabbit here?¡±


    Zhao Qin was the captain of the Blue Army, and as soon as he saw the firelight, he immediately led his men over.


    They had expected to find the Red Army, but instead stumbled upon an unfamiliar little girl.


    ¡°I¡¯m new here.


    I got lost, and when I got hungry, I roasted a rabbit,¡± Gu Xiaoxi hurriedly said with an apologetic smile.


    Zhao Qin, lit by the firelight, sized her up and warned, ¡°You¡¯d better not lie, or else, I¡¯ll make sure you¡¯re punished.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m really new here, got lost in this area.


    Since I roasted the rabbit and everyone must be hungry, how about we share?¡± Gu Xiaoxi offered, generously holding out most of the rabbit to Zhao Qin.


    Zhao Qin glanced at her and thought the new recruit was pretty astute.


    He took the rabbit, tore it into ten pieces, and distributed them to his men.


    Their drill included wilderness survival, and for fear of alerting the enemy by making a fire, they had been eating raw meat.


    Now, with cooked meat right in front of them, and since they were starving, they all put away their guns and began to wolf it down.


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes and smiled slyly, holding the remaining leg of the rabbit as she quietly backed up to the base of a tree.


    Just as she had moved aside, a series of gunshots rang out.


    Suddenly, Zhao Qin and his group were hit like a hornet¡¯s nest, with their helmets smoking from all sides.


    Still immersed in the temptation of rabbit meat, the ten men were instantly bewildered as they unexpectedly met their collective demise...


    Damn it, the Red Army was actually ambushed here?


    ¡°Zhao Qin, does rabbit meat taste good?


    Hahaha, if I remember correctly, your Blue Army has been completely wiped out now,¡± laughed the group that had been lying in ambush in the bushes as they all stood up, screaming.


    ¡°Oh!


    Victory!¡±


    On this side, Zhao Qin, who had been utterly defeated by Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s rabbit meat, furiously dropped the fragrant rabbit leg he was holding, his eyes blazing with fire...


    At this point, no one could eat anymore, and all the Blue Army members were fuming with anger.


    Angry, Zhao Qin glared at the approaching Red Army captain, Yi Chentian.


    ¡°You used a little girl to scheme against me?¡±


    ¡°For that, you¡¯ll have to ask the little girl herself.


    We don¡¯t know her,¡± said Yi Chentian, taking off his helmet and sitting by the fire, looking at Gu Xiaoxi who was hiding behind a big tree and gnawing on a rabbit leg, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to come out and explain to everyone where you came from?¡±


    After finishing the last bit of meat on the bone, Gu Xiaoxi threw the bone to the ground, walked out of the bushes, and waved nonchalantly to everyone, ¡°Hello, everyone.


    Actually, I¡¯m a new recruit who accidentally got lost in the forest.


    I was just roasting some rabbit meat here.


    Sorry for interrupting your business; that¡¯s my bad.


    I apologize to everyone!¡±


    Her attitude was sincere, her expression serious, not at all like she was joking.


    Yi Chentian liked what he saw, especially the girl¡¯s lively big eyes that always seemed to hide her little schemes.


    Zhao Qin had no idea what she had done.


    But he was very clear that from the moment she started the fire, he had been keeping an eye on her.


    Although on the surface, she seemed like an innocent young girl, in reality, she probably knew they were lying in ambush here all along.


    Her fire attracted the Blue Army, and by using the rabbit meat, she indirectly let down the Blue Army¡¯s guard and caught them off guard in an attack on Zhao Qin and his men.


    Whether she meant to help them or inadvertently did a good deed was a mystery!


    In any case, she had helped them tremendously and they had won!


    Zhao Qin, watching Gu Xiaoxi emerge from behind the big tree, ground his teeth.


    ¡°Lost?


    If you couldn¡¯t find the camp, why did you come to these deep mountains?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been walking since this morning, and it was with great difficulty that I finally spotted the camp, still two kilometers away.


    Is it wrong to roast some rabbit meat because I¡¯m hungry?¡± Gu Xiaoxi glanced at Zhao Qin lazily, walked over to Yi Chentian, and sat down, asking for a favor with a smile, ¡°Brother, considering I indirectly helped you, how about letting me stay with you all for one night?¡±


    Yi Chentian, in a great mood, laughed heartily at Zhao Qin, ¡°Since it¡¯s like this, I¡¯ve got your back, sister.


    Come, tonight the Seventh Battalion will take you in.


    Logistics has dormitories for girls; you can rest assured.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s great!¡± Gu Xiaoxi immediately ran up to Yi Chentian and started massaging his shoulders, eagerly trying to please him.


    The Blue Army lost, defeated by their own gluttony.


    If it hadn¡¯t been for that last bit of rabbit meat, would they have let their guard down?


    Zhao Qin glared hard at Gu Xiaoxi and, leading his men, left in a fury.


    On this side, Gu Xiaoxi became the honored guest of the Red Army, a great hero, as she returned with them to the Seventh Battalion.


    Seeing Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s clever and sweet-talking nature, everyone liked her.


    A bunch of grown men took extra care of her.


    Gu Xiaoxi was secretly thrilled.


    As long as she reached the Seventh Battalion, she could find a transport vehicle to hide in by morning.


    She wouldn¡¯t have to wander around the forest anymore, and she could leave with ease.

 Chapter 24 - 24 005

    ?24: 005 Encountering Zhong Ming Again 24: 005 Encountering Zhong Ming Again In the deep of night, the silhouettes of Gu Xiaoxi and her party gradually disappeared into the forest.


    Deep within the dense woods stood a man in dark green military attire, his hands clasped behind his back.


    In the darkness, his figure was proud and erect, his physique robust, and his short hair accentuated his remarkably handsome and vibrant features, making them appear even more imposing.


    ¡°Superior officer, Miss Gu has already safely reached the Seventh Battalion.


    Should we continue to follow her?¡± Lin Mi asked, staring in surprise at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s back.


    The surprise stemmed from the fact that Gu Xiaoxi was right in front of them, and he could have taken her back at any moment with a simple move, yet he remained indifferent.


    Instead, he had followed her for dozens of kilometers along the mountain roads, accompanying her until she was safe.


    Quan Shaoqing looked up at the night sky, noting the high moon, acknowledging the late hour.


    ¡°No need.


    I know you¡¯re curious.


    Xiao Xi, although skilled, is only 18 after all.


    Despite her cleverness, the outside world is dangerous, and we can¡¯t really let her run around like this on her own.


    Since we¡¯ve tricked her into joining the army, we must take responsibility for her safety,¡± Quan Shaoqing explained.


    ¡°But why don¡¯t you just take her back directly?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing sighed, ¡°With her stubborn and unruly nature, she wouldn¡¯t submit unless she experienced some hardships.


    How would she sincerely stay if not?


    Therefore, this kind of training is necessary.¡±


    Lin Mi nodded in understanding upon hearing this.


    It seemed that Quan Shaoqing truly appreciated Gu Xiaoxi, which is why he wanted to keep her by his side to harness her talents to the fullest.


    Hopefully, Gu Xiaoxi would live up to his expectations.


    ¡°Get the helicopter.


    It¡¯s time for us to go back,¡± ordered Quan Shaoqing.


    ...


    Meanwhile, Gu Xiaoxi had arrived at the Seventh Battalion.


    It was her first time experiencing life in a military camp.


    To describe her first impression: it was tough!


    An eight-person dormitory with bunk beds.


    Some units had training deep into the night, their whistles piercing the air, the faces of the soldiers smeared as though they were painted like cats.


    She had no interest in this kind of life.


    In the female barracks, as it was late at night, the female squad leader still patiently made the bed for the newly arrived Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°You can manage with this for the night.


    Are you hungry?


    I can get you some steamed buns from the kitchen.¡±


    ¡°No need, thank you,¡± Gu Xiaoxi replied with a subtle smile.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to take a bath; can I borrow a set of your clothes?¡±


    Seeing that Gu Xiaoxi had a slim figure, the squad leader found an old set of fitting clothes for her, ¡°Go ahead, the bathhouse is on the top floor.


    The men¡¯s and women¡¯s areas are not far from each other, so be careful not to walk into the wrong one.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi quickly nodded as she took the clothes.


    Gu Xiaoxi found the bathhouse for women and looked around at the empty space, with just a few showerheads lined up.


    A twitch formed at the corner of her mouth, and she vowed!


    She absolutely would not join the army, this life was extraordinarily tough.


    She still wanted to be a big star!


    Earning money, being adored and followed, having a couple of assistants to boss around¡ªhow comfortable that would be.


    The next morning, Gu Xiaoxi woke up early and saw a military transport vehicle loaded with vegetables and fruit driving into the Seventh Battalion.


    She was waiting for the right moment to blend in and get on board.


    At seven-thirty in the morning, Gu Xiaoxi, having packed up, left the female dormitory and encountered an old adversary.


    The man was in his twenties, carrying a bag on his back, his silhouette straight and tall.


    Because he was angry, his face remained sullen, and his presence was menacing.


    His arrival immediately caught the attention of many people.


    And Gu Xiaoxi, unluckily, crashed right into the man, full bosomed.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡± Gu Xiaoxi quickly lifted her head with a beaming smile, but at just one glance, her entire body stiffened, and her smile gradually turned pale, ¡°Big brother, what a coincidence... I didn¡¯t expect to run into you here...¡±


    Zhong Ming grabbed hold of Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s shoulder with an iron grip, his face dark with fury and eyes blazing, ¡°You brat, I didn¡¯t expect you¡¯d be hiding out here?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, what a coincidence!


    Buddy, your hand, it¡¯s hurting me, can you loosen your grip a little?¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s smile froze on her face, could this guy be someone Young Master Quan sent to capture her and take her back?


    ¡°Let you go!


    Hmph!


    Rest assured, I¡¯m not here to capture you.


    Thanks to you, Flame was disbanded.


    So, tell me, should I flay you and tear out your sinews, or should I stew you or cook you in a red-braised style?¡± Zhong Ming gritted his teeth, his expression like a wild beast in a frenzy, as if he couldn¡¯t wait to tear Gu Xiaoxi apart and devour her flesh and blood.


    ¡°My flesh isn¡¯t tasty!¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll tear your sinews and peel your skin!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s face darkened!


    ... This guy!


    Was he being serious?


    The disbanding of their group was none of her concern, it seemed like without teaching him a lesson, he would continue to believe he could push her around.


    Is this, his way of venting his frustration and hatred on her?


    Gu Xiaoxi straightened her waist, stood up straight, and with a reverse grip caught hold of Zhong Ming¡¯s wrist with immense strength, forcing him to loosen his grasp somewhat.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at Zhong Ming with a few serious flashes in her eyes, ¡°Buddy, don¡¯t get serious with me.


    I¡¯m afraid you can¡¯t afford to play this game.¡±


    Zhong Ming was still shocked by her powerful wrist strength and was suddenly infuriated by her words.


    ¡°You brat, your ability to trick people and run away is not bad.


    Use all your despicable techniques, go ahead!¡± Zhong Ming snapped.


    Gu Xiaoxi had already preempted him, launching a series of kicks, displaying her footwork skillfully.


    Zhong Ming, caught off guard, repeatedly released Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s shoulder and rapidly retreated, gaining some distance.


    Glaring at Gu Xiaoxi, his eyes bloodshot, he twisted his neck fiercely, his tone full of defiant challenge, ¡°If you have the guts, win against me in combat today.


    Then, I¡¯ll stop holding the disbanding of Flame against you.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi snorted!


    She held her head high, her exquisite face radiating a bewitching luster in the morning light, her eyes like glittering colored glaze, filled with depth and confidence as she stared at Zhong Ming, word by word she said, ¡°It¡¯s, a, deal.¡±


    Combat, huh?


    Her master is a world champion, and she is certainly not bad herself.


    By this time, more and more people had gathered at the entrance of the Seventh Battalion, everyone showing a curious look.


    They felt disdain for a grown man challenging a young girl to combat.


    And Zhong Ming was indeed prepared to use the name of combat as a pretext to teach Gu Xiaoxi a lesson, to get back at her for the humiliation Flame had suffered the day before.


    Yi Chentian came back from his morning training, initially, he was just coming over to watch the excitement, but suddenly, seeing that Zhong Ming, who had joined the special forces, was back and even fighting with a young girl, it left him confused.


    But looking at the stance of both of them, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s morale was not a bit lower than Zhong Ming¡¯s, so he just stayed out with the mentality of watching a good show, letting them be.


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes and stretched her neck and wrists.


    It seemed, if she couldn¡¯t get past Zhong Ming this morning, it would be difficult for her to leave the Seventh Battalion.


    Since, he was asking for a beating.


    She didn¡¯t mind giving him a painful lesson.


    Underestimating her, always came with a price...

 Chapter 25 - 25 Friend request from Yi Chentian Public Group 006

    ?25: Friend request from Yi Chentian (Public Group) #006 25: Friend request from Yi Chentian (Public Group) #006 Gu Xiaoxi clenched her fist, assuming a combat stance.


    Zhong Ming watched Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s movements with several traces of caution in his eyes.


    He had experienced Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s cunning and didn¡¯t dare to underestimate her anymore.


    Not to mention her ability to escape, the fact that she could break away from him was uncontested.


    Zhong Ming no longer held back, his fists striking out swiftly in a preemptive attack.


    He was determined to settle the score today.


    A cold sneer flickered in Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s sparkling eyes as she matched his move with a punch of her own.


    Her fist carried a fierce gust, kicking, blocking, dodging, each movement as if rehearsed thousands of times, swift, accurate, and ruthless, all within just ten rounds.


    Zhong Ming held his wrist that had been painfully struck, now taking Gu Xiaoxi seriously.


    She was clearly just a girl, but her posture made it obvious that not only had she learned combat, her skills were definitely battle-hardened.


    To win, he had to completely overpower her with strength.


    And this time, Zhong Ming¡¯s punches came with a different level of force and speed, as he gave it his all.


    Gu Xiaoxi, however, no longer faced him head-on but quickly shifted her position, dodging under his flurry of punches.


    In just the blink of an eye, she had easily evaded more than a dozen of Zhong Ming¡¯s attacks.


    This caught Zhong Ming by surprise, making him once again realize the shock Gu Xiaoxi brought to him.


    Was this person really good at assessing the situation?


    Knowing she was not as strong as him, had she chosen to avoid his sharp edge?


    Zhong Ming snorted coldly!


    He wouldn¡¯t give her the chance to turn the tables¡ªthis time, he had to teach her a lesson.


    His attacks became even more ruthless.


    ¡°Girls will be girls, they already lose a lot when it comes to strength.


    This kind of evading without attacking, she¡¯s asking to lose!¡± a soldier commented.


    Yi Chentian, watching Gu Xiaoxi, shook his head, disagreeing.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s dodges were not because she was weaker or afraid to attack but because she was looking for Zhong Ming¡¯s weaknesses.


    She was indeed much shorter than Zhong Ming, but when it came to intelligence, obviously she was much superior.


    Gu Xiaoxi initially just dodged, but ten minutes later, Zhong Ming lunged fiercely, his fist bringing a whirlwind towards Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s face, stunning everyone with his speed and power.


    This time, Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t dodge but agilely flipped over to his back and suddenly struck, her palm exploding with immense force.


    That palm, seemingly gentle, carried the power to knock down an ox across a mountain.


    Zhong Ming felt a jolt in his chest as his blood flowed backward and his body turned numb, freezing him on the spot.


    Gu Xiaoxi flipped him onto the ground with one kick, bending over with her fingers tightly locked around his throat, leading to his instant defeat!


    All were shocked!


    Those who knew Zhong Ming were aware that he had strong endurance and was a top performer in the Special Forces.


    And yet, he was defeated by a little girl?


    Zhong Ming¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief as he lay stiff on the ground.


    ¡°You¡¯ve lost!¡± Gu Xiaoxi smiled slightly, casually withdrawing her hand as if the fight had been nothing more than a game.


    She stood in front of him, smiling faintly at him.


    Her smile was radiant, the rising sun shining on her, casting her delicate silhouette in a glow that seemed to light up; brilliantly golden and somewhat dazzling.


    ¡°Zhong Ming, I believe!¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s gaze fell on the badge on his chest, ¡°You¡¯re quite impressive.


    A body full of raw strength is indeed an extraordinary attribute, but, sadly, you¡¯re a bit lacking upstairs.


    You need to be reforged.


    Disbanding you lot, I think the commander is quite wise.¡±


    ¡°*Pfft*!¡± The sound of someone spitting blood abruptly filled the air.


    This girl, her tongue is too poisonous.


    Yi Chentian covered his face with his hand, uncertain from where this living treasure had come.


    She seemed intent on drawing collective hatred!


    In his heart, he cried out, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, do you realize that your words will cause public outrage!¡±


    ¡°You little brat, what are you talking about?¡± Zhong Ming was so angry that he almost spit out a mouthful of old blood.


    He had given all he had and suffered greatly, just to barely make it into the Special Forces.


    And now, because of her, the whole team was being disbanded.


    Despite being younger than him, when she lectured people, her words were venomous enough to make someone want to strangle her.


    ¡°I¡¯m saying you need to start over!¡± Gu Xiaoxi unabashedly met Zhong Ming¡¯s furious gaze.


    ¡°I hope next time your brain functions a bit better.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Zhong Ming sprang up from the ground, pointing at Gu Xiaoxi, his cheeks turning from red to purplish.


    He looked like he wanted to fight Gu Xiaoxi but held back from making a move.


    Because what Gu Xiaoxi said was correct.


    He did have to reforge himself and wait for next year; he was certain to start over then, and at that time, he wouldn¡¯t be ¡®incapable¡¯ as he was now.


    Actually, of all Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s skills, hacking ranked first, racing second, combat third, and everything else...


    she was utterly hopeless at.


    So if he had chosen to compete in other areas¡ªlike shooting or navigating obstacles¡ªthings she had never touched, Gu Xiaoxi naturally wouldn¡¯t have won so easily.


    But he had to pick her strongest points.


    His luck was just that bad!


    It wasn¡¯t that he was incompetent; rather, Gu Xiaoxi was even more skilled.


    One should know she was a little freak who had been tortured and tormented by many masters since childhood, quick-witted with extraordinary skills.


    In terms of dealing with people, she was shrewd, capable of flattering, and assessing the situation¡ªat the end of the day, she was an ¡®Immortal¡¯ you couldn¡¯t beat.


    Thus, it was clear that Gu Xiaoxi had endured a lot of hardship since childhood.


    No strong person is born that way; Gu Xiaoxi was human and no exception.


    ¡°All right, Zhong Ming.


    Xiao Xi is right, since you¡¯ve come back.


    Then start anew.


    Every year the higher-ups recruit Special Forces soldiers.


    If not this year, then there¡¯s always next year,¡± Yi Chentian immediately intervened to defuse the situation.


    ¡°Squad leader!¡± Zhong Ming glared at Gu Xiaoxi, grinding his teeth.


    Restarting wasn¡¯t such a big deal; it was just that seeing Gu Xiaoxi always stirred the combative cells in his heart.


    In this life, if he couldn¡¯t defeat her, it would be a lifelong disgrace!


    Years later, if he knew that he would bear this disgrace for a lifetime, he wouldn¡¯t take it so seriously.


    But of course, that¡¯s a story for later.


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother with a child.


    Next year, I¡¯ll join you in trying out for the Special Forces,¡± Yi Chentian slapped his shoulder and promised.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Really!¡±


    Zhong Ming excitedly stood up and gave Yi Chentian a military salute.


    They were originally supposed to join the Special Forces together this year, but Yi Chentian missed the Special Forces selection due to family issues.


    Gu Xiaoxi waved her hand dismissively, uninterested in their affairs.


    Now that she had passed this obstacle, she thought of how to leave quickly.


    Turning around, she walked briskly out of the crowd.


    Yi Chentian watched Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s retreating figure, a mild smile on his lips.


    After pacifying Zhong Ming and ordering everyone to disband, he chased after Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°Miss Gu, please wait!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi stopped, turning around to size up Yi Chentian, ¡°Oh, is there something Big Brother Yi needs from me?¡±


    ¡°Add me as a friend!¡± Yi Chentian said with a smile.


    He was filled with admiration for Gu Xiaoxi.

 Chapter 26 - 26 007 Two masters

    ?26: 007 Two masters 26: 007 Two masters Gu Xiaoxi smiled faintly, ¡°I won¡¯t stay in the army, and maybe after today I¡¯ll leave this place.


    So, the chance of us meeting again is even more remote.


    Let¡¯s just forget it!¡±


    Her refusal was very straightforward and crisp, and she continued to stride forward.


    Yi Chentian stood there stunned, a cool breeze rolling yellow leaves at his feet, which seemed exceptionally desolate.


    He, known throughout the entire regiment as the youngest, most handsome, most charismatic man, had found a girl he liked at first sight and wanted to ask her out, only to be rejected so swiftly.


    She didn¡¯t even hesitate...


    Just like that, she turned around and left indifferently...


    Watching Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s figure getting further and further away, Yi Chentian came to his senses and chased after her with thick-skinned persistence.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, if we meet in the army, we can at least make friends, right?


    Even if we don¡¯t meet, we can be friends online!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi turned to look at Yi Chentian.


    He, just like his name, exuded a vibrant spirit.


    With his tall build and rare handsome features, a guy like him would be the center of attention anywhere!


    ¡°That works!¡± Gu Xiaoxi gave him her training communicator.


    ¡°Just that, I don¡¯t have my phone with me, I¡¯ll add you when I get it.¡±


    ¡°Great!¡± Yi Chentian was in high spirits, offering eagerly to Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Are you heading back to your unit now?


    I can drive you there.¡±


    ¡°Just tell me where the transport vehicles are parked, I can hitch a ride with them.


    No need to trouble you,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said blandly.


    Yi Chentian pointed to a storage room not far away with a smile, ¡°Right there!


    I¡¯ll take you over!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi nodded and followed him.


    When Yi Chentian heard Gu Xiaoxi was leaving with the transport vehicle, he thought she was with the logistics unit and didn¡¯t say much more, just watched her get onto the vehicle and then waved goodbye.


    Thanks to Yi Chentian¡¯s help, a seat was arranged for Gu Xiaoxi in the vehicle, which smoothly drove out of the Seventh Unit.


    Once Gu Xiaoxi boarded the vehicle, she slumped down to catch up on sleep; she had only gotten four hours of sleep after arriving at the Seventh Unit late the previous night and was still extremely sleepy.


    *


    Meanwhile, at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s command center.


    Two tall men stood erect in front of his desk, but after waiting for a while without Quan Shaoqing showing up, they began to talk curiously.


    ¡°Jiang Shichi, what do you think our superior officer wants with the two of us?¡± Wu An asked, puzzled.


    ¡°What else could it be?


    The two of us rank at the bottom in Team A.


    Surely, it¡¯s to ¡®educate¡¯ us!¡±


    ¡°But that¡¯s not right either!


    Among ten fingers, there are differences in length.


    If we¡¯re not at the bottom, someone else will...¡±


    ¡°Shh!...¡±


    Upon hearing footsteps, the two men snapped to attention and saluted.


    ¡°Superior officer!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing entered the office, took off his coat, and looked at the two impressive figures before him, pointing to the sofa across, ¡°Both of you, take a seat!¡±


    The two exchanged a glance and sat down neatly.


    Quan Shaoqing sat in front of his desk and looked at Jiang Shichi, ¡°Your master is the renowned Wudang Sect heir, Liu Yishou, correct?¡±


    ¡°Reporting!


    Yes!¡± Jiang Shichi immediately stood up and replied respectfully.


    Quan Shaoqing gestured to him, ¡°Sit down and talk.¡±


    He switched his computer to the satellite positioning, turned it towards Jiang Shichi and the other special forces soldier Wu An, and instructed, ¡°I have a mission for you two.¡±


    ¡°Yes!


    Superior officer!¡±


    ¡°Find this person in the 199 Highlands and bring them back to me.


    As for how you do it, I don¡¯t care, but make sure not to injure the person,¡± Quan Shaoqing ordered seriously, his dark eyes flickering with cold light.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Jiang Shichi fixed his gaze on the rapidly moving red dot on the screen, a glint of determination in his eyes.


    As long as they weren¡¯t being reprimanded, they could accomplish any mission.


    ¡°Then off you go!¡± Quan Shaoqing didn¡¯t elaborate further, merely giving the orders.


    Jiang Shichi and Wu An then took their leave, having received the mission.


    The morning light filtered through the window onto the green plants on his desk.


    Quan Shaoqing turned his head, his gaze settling on the tracker¡¯s location displayed on the computer screen, and he smiled slyly, ¡°Naughty girl, thinking you can leave my territory so easily, no way!¡±


    The transport vehicle carrying Gu Xiaoxi had gotten stuck in a gully, prompting her to feel like crying out of frustration.


    At this rate, when would she ever make it out of this two-hundred-kilometer radius and get away from Quan Shaoqing?


    She, along with a young soldier, mustered all their strength to push the vehicle out of the pit it had fallen into.


    A JP80 was blocking the road ahead.


    On it sat two handsome guys with military caps, chewing on strands of foxtail grass.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked up and locked eyes with the two.


    The man had fierce eyes that resembled a Wolf King lurking in the darkness.


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes, her sixth sense telling her these were not men to be trifled with.


    ¡°Hey!


    I heard you somehow managed to screw over Flame,¡± Wu An said, crossing his legs and sizing up Gu Xiaoxi with a mischievous air.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Gu Xiaoxi stood up alertly and took a step back.


    ¡°Who we are isn¡¯t important.


    You¡¯ve made our special forces look bad.


    We¡¯re here to settle the score,¡± Jiang Shichi removed his cap, deftly turned the steering wheel, stepped on the gas, and in a flash, his vehicle zoomed up to Gu Xiaoxi, leaving a trail of drifting dust behind.


    The speed and skill amazed Gu Xiaoxi, revealing a depth of untraceable ability in each move!


    Gu Xiaoxi was certain that these two were experts!


    The soldier driving the transport vehicle, upon seeing the insignia on the approaching men¡¯s shoulders, saluted hastily and then ran off, scared stiff.


    Gu Xiaoxi was exasperated!


    What earth-shattering sin had she committed that one after another came seeking retribution!


    ¡°I just want to ask you guys, exactly how did you find me?¡± Gu Xiaoxi squinted her eyes.


    Ever since Zhong Ming had parachuted directly above her, she had suspected that she was being tracked.

 Chapter 27 - 27 008 The Bullied Elder Martial Brother!

    ?27: 008 The Bullied Elder Martial Brother!


    27: 008 The Bullied Elder Martial Brother!


    Jiang Shichi smiled faintly, the bronze color of his skin gleaming.


    He chuckled evilly and spat out the foxtail grass from his mouth, staring at Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Heard you¡¯re quite wild.


    We¡¯d like to see how you stack up!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to compete with you guys,¡± Gu Xiaoxi took a few cautious steps back.


    Her cunning sixth sense told her that these two were a bit too strong.


    ¡°Are you scared?¡±


    ¡°Provocation won¡¯t work on me.¡± Gu Xiaoxi rolled her eyes and turned to walk down the main road.


    Although the transport vehicle had left, she knew that if she followed this direction, she would get out of the military base.


    Wu An and Jiang Shichi exchanged glances, both speechless.


    ¡°Cunning rabbit, it looks like your code name is about to be passed on,¡± Wu An remarked, smiling teasingly while looking at Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s retreating cold figure.


    Jiang Shichi¡¯s face darkened, ¡°Since she won¡¯t compete with us, we¡¯ll just have to capture her.¡±


    ¡°The superior officer wants her to surrender willingly and return,¡± Wu An said.


    Jiang Shichi was speechless...


    This mission was a bit difficult, as the girl clearly had a defiant nature.


    *


    Gu Xiaoxi kept walking down the path, with JP80 crawling slowly behind her.


    Half an hour later, Gu Xiaoxi stopped and, looking back at the two who were leisurely following her, demanded, ¡°What the hell do you two want?¡±


    ¡°Haven¡¯t thought about it yet.


    When I do, I¡¯ll tell you,¡± Wu An replied casually, arms crossed, sitting on the vehicle, feet controlling the steering wheel, slowly driving along.


    Jiang Shichi leaned on the window, hands supporting his chin, looking askance at Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°I¡¯m curious, what¡¯s your relationship with the superior officer?¡±


    ¡°You mean Quan Shaoqing?


    I have nothing to do with him...¡± Gu Xiaoxi suddenly fell silent, as if struck by a Binding Spell, she stopped in her tracks and turned back, her eyes wide with indignant fury, ¡°You¡¯re not sent by him to capture me, are you!¡±


    Jiang Shichi was speechless.


    She dared to say Quan Shaoqing¡¯s name so casually.


    ...Sure enough, the two of them had a deep connection.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Wu An said with an easy smile, beckoning to Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°I advise you to save your energy and come along.


    We¡¯ll take you back to the recruits¡¯ squad.¡±


    A trail of black lines ran down Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s forehead.


    ¡°Since you are Quan Shaoqing¡¯s men, sorry, but I¡¯m going to run first.¡± Gu Xiaoxi turned and leaped into the small forest nearby.


    She would rather die than be captured again.


    She knew that if she was sent back to the recruits¡¯ squad, her chances of escaping would be zero, and she might even be punished by the superior officers.


    Watching Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s agile movements, Jiang Shichi and Wu An narrowed their eyes dangerously.


    They were impressed both by her speed and by the renown of Quan Shaoqing.


    ¡°Wu An, if I¡¯m not seeing things, she just tapped her toes on the ground and jumped three times in a row.


    That was Qinggong, right!¡± Jiang Shichi exclaimed in shock.


    In today¡¯s society, such a lost martial art was rarely known.


    ¡°Damn!


    Cunning rabbit, that¡¯s supposed to be your specialty, isn¡¯t it?


    Aren¡¯t you the apprentice of the martial arts master Liu Yishou?


    Go after her quickly.


    If she gets away and we have to go back, those ninety-eight guys will fry us in a wok.¡± Wu An screamed.


    Jiang Shichi sprang from the vehicle and chased after Gu Xiaoxi into the forest, following the path she had taken.


    Gu Xiaoxi was fast, covering several hundred meters in the blink of an eye.


    She thought she would surely escape but the man behind her was like an oversized rabbit, leaping from tree branch to tree branch, quickly pursuing her.


    His speed was akin to the flying and earth-escaping techniques described in martial arts novels.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s pupils shrank, and she stared in disbelief, ¡°Holy shit!


    I¡¯ve encountered a fellow practitioner.¡±


    Maybe too excited, or maybe just unlucky, at the moment she tiptoed and leaped, she crashed headlong into a branch of an old locust tree.


    Gu Xiaoxi only felt that in an instant, pain spread from her forehead to her limbs, and there she was, sprawled out, lying tragically on the ground.


    Standing atop a tree branch, Jiang Shichi covered his face with his large palm and nearly stumbled off himself.


    ¡°Little sister, you should at least try to save some face for your master.


    This is just too embarrassing.¡±


    It took him quite some time to recover, and then he leapt down, landing in front of Gu Xiaoxi, with an incredibly pitiful voice he clicked his tongue, ¡°Little sister!


    There¡¯s no need to be so excited to see your senior brother!


    Such a grand gesture is too much for me to accept!¡±


    ¡°Your sister!


    Who¡¯s your little sister?


    Don¡¯t just call me that!¡± Gu Xiaoxi, dizzy and disoriented, climbed up from the ground, wobbled a few circles before she managed to steady herself.


    ¡°Old Liu said he has a little sister, and that I should take good care of her whenever I met her.


    Little sister, just be a good soldier, and your senior brother will have your back,¡± Jiang Shichi said with a smile, staring at Gu Xiaoxi, almost excited enough to come over for a hug.


    Previously, his master had mentioned he had a pretty and cute little sister, but he hadn¡¯t believed it.


    Today, seeing her for the first time, it was indeed true.


    Not only pretty and cute, but also so full of personality~!


    Gu Xiaoxi finally steadied her nerves and sized up Jiang Shichi.


    Indeed, her master was also Liu Yishou, but she had never heard about having a senior brother!


    Gu Xiaoxi beat her chest and stamped her feet, and inwardly, two noodle-like tears flowed.


    Liu Yishou had once promised her that she would be his only disciple for life.


    And now, out of nowhere, a senior brother had popped up!


    Gu Xiaoxi sat down on the ground with a plop and cried her eyes out, feeling utterly forlorn.


    All men truly are liars.


    Liars, a bunch of liars!


    ¡°I won¡¯t be a soldier!¡±


    ¡°Little sister, don¡¯t be like that!


    A true man should stand tall and uphold...¡±


    ¡°Shut up!


    I¡¯m a woman.¡± Gu Xiaoxi rested for a bit, then turned her head to look at Jiang Shichi, ¡°When did Old Liu take you as his disciple?¡±


    ¡°Six years ago!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi did the math, ¡°Darn it, you should be calling me senior sister.¡±


    Jiang Shichi¡¯s face darkened, ¡°But you¡¯re younger than me, and your Qinggong isn¡¯t as good as mine.¡± In truth, the master did say she was the senior sister, but now seeing that she was a young girl, he wouldn¡¯t admit to being the junior brother.


    Gu Xiaoxi sat cross-legged on the ground like a monk, hands propping up her chin, staring at Jiang Shichi.


    If it weren¡¯t for her playful childhood, she wouldn¡¯t have barely passed the three subjects, leaving the rest half-baked.


    Cry faint!


    Gu Xiaoxi blinked her misty eyes, finally understanding the words her teacher often recited, ¡°A young idler, an old beggar!¡±


    ¡°Little sister, have you thought it through?


    Come back with me!¡± Jiang Shichi was convinced that Gu Xiaoxi couldn¡¯t escape now.


    So, he sat beside her, earnestly tendering his persuasion.


    Gu Xiaoxi curled the corners of her mouth, her eyes flashing with a wicked smile, and beckoned Jiang Shichi with her finger, ¡°Come here, and I¡¯ll tell you why our master is called Liu Yishou!¡±


    Jiang Shichi furrowed his brows, looking at Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s innocent eyes, he felt somewhat creeped out.


    After thinking it over, since she wasn¡¯t as skilled as him and couldn¡¯t pull any tricks, he leaned in, ¡°Is there any other meaning to the master¡¯s name?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi clenched her fist, swung a punch at Jiang Shichi¡¯s forehead, and chuckled slyly, ¡°Let me tell you!


    Always keep something in reserve, you fool.


    Next time we meet, remember to call me senior sister!¡±


    Jiang Shichi heard Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s cool voice just before he fainted.


    This wretched girl had intentionally sought a relationship with him to let down his guard, and then, without him noticing, suddenly launched an attack.


    The center of the forehead is the most sensitive knockout point; a punch there can easily knock someone out.


    Ah!


    Ah!


    Ah!


    He had fallen for it so easily.


    In the moment before Jiang Shichi fainted, he realized something: The people who can hurt you are always the ones closest to you!

 Chapter 28 - 28 009

    ?28: 009 The king lurking in the night 28: 009 The king lurking in the night Gu Xiaoxi brushed off her hands and stood up, her gaze sweeping over the forest.


    Even though she had taken one down, wasn¡¯t there another one still?


    And that one seemed to be the least approachable of them all.


    Her eyes scanned the treetops and settled on a tree trunk not far away.


    Leaning casually against a branch, Wu An sized up Gu Xiaoxi from a distance, while she also watched him.


    To her, his posture, though seemingly ordinary, was filled with crisis.


    He was like a lion sizing up its prey casually, analytically, before seizing the opportunity to pounce.


    His commanding presence made Gu Xiaoxi feel irked and put her on alert.


    Almost in a flash, Gu Xiaoxi darted into the bushes, leaped over shrubs, crossed a stream, and ran with all her might.


    Wu An¡¯s features, noble and handsome, were enhanced by his bronze skin, exuding health and charisma.


    His narrow eyes sparkled sharply, like a cheetah poised to leap.


    He pursued Gu Xiaoxi without any hesitation.


    He didn¡¯t rely on Qinggong but on the explosive strength of his body to jump, overcome obstacles, and avoid dangers.


    With each landing, he left behind a series of deep footprints.


    They were evidence of his power.


    After running non-stop for half an hour, Gu Xiaoxi sat in a hidden patch of wild grass and began to check whether she had a tracker on her.


    She searched her entire body and finally, her gaze fell on the bracelet on her wrist.


    Made of a special material, it sparkled with iridescent circles in the sunlight, dazzling and eye-catching.


    ¡°Ah!


    Quan Shaoqing, you son of a bitch!¡±


    Moments later, birds and beasts in the forest were startled by the sound of Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s voice, raging furiously!


    Wu An, pursuing her, slipped and almost plunged headfirst!


    To dare to curse Quan Shaoqing, this was indeed a first!


    Looking up, he saw Gu Xiaoxi sitting on a pile of grass, her face ashen, her silhouette stubborn, and her whole body exuding a coldness that warned others to stay away.


    For a moment, he even wondered if their revered superior officer had taken advantage of the girl and then shirked responsibility?


    ¡°You can come over!


    I won¡¯t run anymore.


    Will you take me to see Quan Shaoqing?¡± Gu Xiaoxi used all her force to try to break the bracelet off her wrist.


    She bit on it, smashed it with a rock, and even turned her wrist red, but it wouldn¡¯t come off.


    She sat on the ground, huffing in anger, with a vein pulsing on her snow-white neck against the backdrop of her green military uniform.


    She was clearly very angry.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t within the scope of my mission!¡± Wu An¡¯s cool response floated over with the rustling of the leaves.


    Gu Xiaoxi stopped her struggle with the bracelet, turned her head, and glared at him obliquely.


    ¡°Although I can¡¯t beat you, I am perfectly capable of running away.


    But now, I don¡¯t want to run anymore.


    I want to see Quan Shaoqing.


    Call him, and if he disagrees, tell him that I will be his enemy for life!¡±


    Her tone was one of refusal.


    The thought infuriated Gu Xiaoxi!


    Wearing a tracker on her body, running was pointless.


    It was like jumping around like a fool on his territory, being played with by anyone he pleased, as if she were a monkey being teased.


    Was he currently watching from the shadows, taking pleasure in her plight?


    Was toying with her really that amusing?


    Wu An pressed his lips together, watching Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s serious profile.


    Beneath her fair complexion, a deep anger was hidden.


    Her voice was soft, yet carried an unshakable seriousness.


    Her young, vibrant body radiated intense sorrow and frustration.


    Her tenacity, mingled with a loneliness that kept others at bay, momentarily touched his heart.


    After a moment¡¯s hesitation, Wu An took out a communicator from his pocket, dialed the code for Young Master Quan, and soon made a connection.


    Three hours later


    Command center.


    Quan Shaoqing sat on the couch reading the newspaper.


    Everything in the office was made of refined steel, the windows were bulletproof glass, and even the setting sun streaming through them fell on his body without a trace of warmth.


    Gu Xiaoxi stood in front of him.


    Behind them were Lin Mi, Wu An, and Jiang Shichi.


    ¡°I won¡¯t join the military!¡± Gu Xiaoxi looked at Quan Shaoqing with a stern face, her tone stubborn.


    ¡°I am the guardian, and what I say goes!¡± Quan Shaoqing didn¡¯t even lift his head, his tone even more indisputable.


    Gu Xiaoxi clenched her teeth, her big eyes brimming with crystal-clear tears, ¡°I¡¯ll say it again, I won¡¯t join the military!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing put down the newspaper, examining Gu Xiaoxi.


    Her long, dense, and curled eyelashes framed her eyes, which held a pool of clear water that streamed slowly.


    ¡°Protecting the homeland is everyone¡¯s duty, your protest is invalid!¡± Quan Shaoqing hurriedly averted his gaze, picking up the newspaper again as if the ice in his eyes had been crushed, somewhat embarrassedly staring at the words on the paper.


    In a trance, the clear, regular script became blurred.


    Seeing her tears, he felt as if his breath had been seized; that feeling, surpassing pity, gathered in his heart like unraveling silk and cocooned into a sea, sweeping through his limbs and body.


    For a moment, he was still unsure which kind of unusual and sensitive feeling that was.


    Just that his heart was faintly stung.


    Involuntarily, his breath turned colder, also affirming his persistence.


    Gu Xiaoxi glared with red eyes as the setting sun slowly sank into the horizon, staining the clouds with shades of blood.


    Standing beside the window, the striking colors behind her cast her silhouette in a lonely and stubborn light.


    In the grand and solemn command room, the atmosphere became tense as drawn swords and ready bows.


    Just when Lin Mi, Wu An, and others thought that Gu Xiaoxi would surely throw a fit and infuriate the superior officer.


    All of a sudden, Gu Xiaoxi raised her hand and fiercely wiped away the impending tears in her eyes.


    She stepped forward, snatched the newspaper from Quan Shaoqing¡¯s hand, planted herself in his lap, and tightly wrapped her arms around his neck, burying her delicate little face deeply in the nape of his neck.


    ¡°Please!


    I really don¡¯t want to join the military.


    I have my own dreams!¡± She was like a cat, gently nestling in his embrace, rubbing, cooing, pleading.


    The four men in the room were simultaneously dumbfounded.


    Quan Shaoqing was taken aback, and by the time he reacted, her small head had already burrowed into his neck.


    Her black, silky hair rubbed on his skin, ticklish, his arms filled with the girl¡¯s refreshing scent.


    He stiffened his back, suddenly feeling somewhat at a loss.


    Lin Mi¡¯s eyes widened in shock.


    This coquettish and cute act...


    Ah!


    He was about to surrender!


    Could the superior officer resist?


    Wu An and Jiang Shichi exchanged glances, their eyes glinting with mischief, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s dramatic change was just a matter of wiping away a tear.


    This approach, throwing herself into his arms, acting coquettishly and cutely...


    It was hopeless; any man would soften!


    Jiang Shichi covered his face, peeking through his fingers, and thought to himself: ¡°Junior Sister, you are indeed strong, just look, our superior officer is about to fall to you!


    Getting played by you wouldn¡¯t be too shameful, after all!¡±


    Only Wu An looked at Gu Xiaoxi deeply, his eyes filled with depth.


    At this moment, that¡¯s what he believed.


    She truly was an impressive person.


    She would avoid her enemy¡¯s sharpest attacks, exploiting the weaknesses of human nature, for example: When facing him and Jiang Shichi, she knew she couldn¡¯t win, so she didn¡¯t confront them head-on from the start.


    When she knew she was being tracked, she even gave up fleeing because she realized she couldn¡¯t escape no matter what.


    A person, no matter how capable, cannot contend with an entire military.


    And in dealing with Quan Shaoqing.


    She was both soft and firm, knowing when to advance and retreat, acting coy and cute, every word performed to perfection.


    A person like this was born to be a king lurking in the night, destined to shine brilliantly once exposed.


    If she couldn¡¯t be brought onto the right path, she would become an uncontrollable torrent.


    Conversely, if she could propagate righteousness and imbue the spirit, her future and destiny would be boundless.


    He suddenly understood why Quan Shaoqing was so determined to have her join the military.


    Because she truly was prime material for the military.


    In the future, the heights she would reach could even surpass everyone in Department Z!


    However, at this moment, the king had yet to awaken!

 Chapter 29 - 29 010 Have a cigarette to calm the nerves

    ?29: 010 Have a cigarette to calm the nerves 29: 010 Have a cigarette to calm the nerves Gu Xiaoxi ultimately couldn¡¯t beat Quan Shaoqing.


    The national flag fluttered outside the night command center, and each soldier stood straight, guarding every inch of the land.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s private residence.


    The house was furnished with cleanly arranged white furniture, spotless.


    Gu Xiaoxi sat at the dining table, holding chopsticks in her hand, and called out to the man cooking in the kitchen, ¡°I¡¯m starving to death.¡±


    ¡°Come in and serve the dishes,¡± Quan Shaoqing commanded loudly, holding the spatula.


    Gu Xiaoxi huffed coldly, turned her head in a huff, she refused to go.


    As her guardian, he had arranged her future.


    And she, being raised by him, since she had to follow his path, he had to pay the price of taking care of her.


    Quan Shaoqing glanced at Gu Xiaoxi, saw she wasn¡¯t moving, and still looked very angry.


    A slim smile flickered through his narrow phoenix eyes.


    Although Gu Xiaoxi seemed upset, she had at least agreed to enlist.


    Even though the process was a bit complicated, she had suffered quite a bit.


    But the result was good.


    Quan Shaoqing placed three dishes and a soup on the table, a stir-fried beef, a green vegetable, and an egg soup.


    He saw those eyes of Gu Xiaoxi as if she wanted to stare a hole through him, and he commanded coolly, ¡°Stop glaring.


    Eat!¡±


    Dammit!


    Looking at that demon-like face made Gu Xiaoxi furious; she threw the chopsticks down, ¡°I won¡¯t eat!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing brought a bowl, served the rice in front of Gu Xiaoxi, raised his handsome eyebrows and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong now?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t eat when I see you!¡±


    With her personality, not taking serious revenge on him was already her utmost mercy.


    Quan Shaoqing held his breath, his stern face gradually turned ashen, before returning to normal, ¡°Be good!


    I¡¯ll feed you!¡±


    His tone shifted into one of appeasement.


    Gu Xiaoxi glanced up and down at Quan Shaoqing, her eyes lighting up, ¡°Okay, okay!


    Hurry up, I¡¯m starving.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing: ¡°...¡±


    He looked at Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s fair face with a soft smile in his heart; this girl, her vengeful heart was still very strong.


    She was annoyed by his teasing, so she bullied him like this.


    Quan Shaoqing sat beside Gu Xiaoxi resignedly but generously picked up the chopsticks and brought the food to her mouth, ¡°Eat!


    Go to bed early after eating.¡±


    From tomorrow on, Gu Xiaoxi would officially enlist.


    Gu Xiaoxi glared at him, grinding her teeth, and it took a while before she opened her mouth to eat the meat Quan Shaoqing brought to her lips.


    She bit fiercely, chewing the meat as if it was Quan Shaoqing.


    ¡°I know why you want to be a star,¡± Quan Shaoqing didn¡¯t say much, next he switched to a spoon, ladling soup to feed her.


    Gu Xiaoxi enjoyed being taken care of.


    ¡°How would you know?¡± Gu Xiaoxi sneered inwardly.


    ¡°It¡¯s because of your father, right?¡±


    As Quan Shaoqing finished speaking, he only saw Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s hand under the table clench into a fist, her petite body trembling slightly.


    Although she masked it well, he still noticed.


    ¡°My dad died long ago!¡± Gu Xiaoxi turned her head away, using the misalignment of the lights to let her long eyelashes cover the redness at the corners of her eyes.


    ¡°Being a star at most gets you into his circle.


    If you wait until you can rise to my rank, you will be taken seriously by them.¡± After Quan Shaoqing spoke, he placed the bowl and chopsticks in front of her, and then started eating his own meal.


    He didn¡¯t disturb her, letting her think for herself.


    That was all he could do.


    If she was still so resistant, he wouldn¡¯t force her anymore.


    Gu Xiaoxi picked up the chopsticks and ate on her own.


    While eating, she wasn¡¯t ladylike at all, like venting her anger.


    Quan Shaoqing occasionally put vegetables into her bowl, and beneath her lowered eyelashes, those dark eyes held an indelible sadness and solitude.


    ¡°I¡¯m full!¡± Gu Xiaoxi put down her chopsticks and stood up, pointing at the three rooms in front of her, she asked, ¡°Which one do I sleep in?¡±


    ¡°Little ancestor, the one in the middle!¡± Quan Shaoqing replied good-naturedly.


    Gu Xiaoxi strode over and before closing the door to her room, she gave Quan Shaoqing a look, her tone more serious than ever before.


    ¡°If what you said is true, then I¡¯ll listen to your arrangements.¡± Gu Xiaoxi paused, staring at Quan Shaoqing, the darkness in her eyes ablaze with fire, ¡°I will surpass you.


    And step on all those who have bullied me.¡±


    Her gaze was filled with determination and disdain, inadvertently exuding a regal aura.


    Quan Shaoqing couldn¡¯t help but shudder.


    After taking a shower, Gu Xiaoxi found her room prepared with a lot of clothes that were all new and impeccably clean, smelling of detergent, and even her underwear was neatly arranged in the wardrobe.


    Gu Xiaoxi picked out a cute bunny pajama set, truly feeling tired these past few days.


    She casually dried her hair and then fell asleep on the bed.


    But no sooner had she closed her eyes than she began to dream.


    In her dream, she was back in her childhood, huddled in a cardboard box on the street, shaking from the bone-chilling cold, crying and calling for her dad...


    Back then, she had been so frightened.


    A black Tibetan Mastiff stood in front of her, a meter tall, like a behemoth, baring its fangs at her.


    She struggled to run but was trapped in the box, and being so small, she couldn¡¯t move at all.


    As the Tibetan Mastiff opened its jaws wider, about to bite her, she was so terrified that she sat up with a start, only to realize it was just a dream.


    She was covered in a cold sweat, her clothes soaked.


    They say a three-year-old has no memory, yet she remembered incidents from when she was three so vividly because her dreams repeatedly revisited the same scene, day after day.


    Although she could no longer recall that person¡¯s face, she would never forget that her father was named Fu Qiuyi.


    A prominent figure in City A, involved in the fashion industry, luxury brands, jewelry, entertainment, hotels, real estate, and the internet, spanning over ten major industries.


    Three years prior, he had already been named the richest man.


    Trying to get close to him was like reaching for the heavens.


    This was the man who, fifteen years ago, had abandoned his wife and child.


    Having tidied up the place, Quan Shaoqing carried a glass of warm milk to knock on Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s door.


    Moments later, the door opened.


    ¡°Drink the milk before going back to sleep!¡± He stood at the doorway, observing Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s pale face, worry forcing him to step forward and touch her forehead, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡±


    Realizing she didn¡¯t have a fever, he breathed a sigh of relief.


    The lights were off in Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s room.


    She held the doorknob, her gaze fixed on him, like a wounded little beast.


    After a moment, she took the milk, turned around with a ¡°bang,¡± and closed the door.


    Quan Shaoqing stood at the door, her behavior leaving him baffled.


    Was she still angry?


    Angry with him?


    *


    He went back to his room and had just finished showering and getting dressed when he saw Gu Xiaoxi, clutching a pillow, standing at his door.


    ¡°I¡¯m scared!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s expression darkened, ¡°And then?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi, ignoring his mood, hugged the pillow, lifted his blanket, climbed onto the bed, ¡°I¡¯m sleeping with you!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing brought a hand to his forehead, ¡°Girl, you¡¯re eighteen years old.¡±


    ¡°If you can take responsibility, I don¡¯t mind what you do at night!¡± Gu Xiaoxi positioned her pillow, found a comfortable spot, then lay down and closed her eyes to sleep.


    Quan Shaoqing froze in place.


    He was a normal man!


    Her words made him feel an almost serious urge.


    Quan Shaoqing stood still for a long time, forcefully suppressing the strangeness in his heart.


    For the sake of her proper upbringing, he decided to first have a cigarette to calm his nerves!

 Chapter 30 - 30 Old ginger is still more pungent

    ?30: Old ginger is still more pungent.


    30: Old ginger is still more pungent.


    In the dead of night, within a dark corner of the city.


    Seven men clad in black, hoods over their heads, gathered under an abandoned overpass.


    In front of them stood four tall, fit nineteen-year-old girls, standing erect.


    ¡°You have been lying low in City A for three years, and now it¡¯s time for you to play your part.


    Tomorrow marks the enlistment of z department¡¯s last batch of new recruits.


    You¡¯re arranged to go inside, given three years to infiltrate Quan Shaoqing¡¯s core combat unit.


    Steal major military secrets for the boss to carry out his grand plan more effectively.


    During these years, support each other and keep a low profile.


    If any of you are exposed...you know the consequences...¡± the leader of the men said coldly, his tone full of threats and deterrence.


    ¡°Yes!


    We will not fail the mission!¡± The four girls responded in unison, well-trained, their voices clear and strong.


    ¡°Dismissed!¡±


    As the man finished speaking, they exchanged glances and silently departed in four different directions.


    The night¡¯s silvery moon hung high, a gentle breeze caressed the face, and among the grass, the chirping of insects was pleasing to the ear.


    In some unknown nooks, darkness continued to fester ceaselessly.


    *


    The first rays of dawn entered Quan Shaoqing¡¯s bedroom.


    Gu Xiaoxi felt as if she had only just woken, her neck numb, and took quite some time before she could open her groggy eyes.


    However, upon looking up, she was met with an enlarged face, its color a livid hue, eyes like shards of ice, so cold it seemed to frost over the room.


    Startled, she scrambled up, hugging a pillow and retreating continuously, eyes warily staring down Quan Shaoqing, ¡°I¡¯m sorry!


    I¡¯m sorry!


    I didn¡¯t mean to...¡±


    Fine veins of blood showed in Quan Shaoqing¡¯s eyes, clearly, he hadn¡¯t rested all night.


    Especially the color of his face, it was as dark as an impending storm.


    He looked at Gu Xiaoxi, who wore an expression of innocence, and grabbed her wrist with a slight tilt of his head.


    In the morning sunlight, his sharp features were filled with coldness.


    Her gaze traveled from his perfect collarbone, up to his stern jaw, and then to his eyes, deep as cold pools.


    In an instant, the light of dawn illuminated his entire being, his features exquisite, his skin so flawless it seemed poreless, his brow emitting a commanding aura, as beautiful as a wicked demon.


    Had he not been radiating such a murderous air, she would have been captivated by his appearance.


    ¡°Quan¡ªQuan Shaoqing!


    Where¡ªwhere did I offend you?¡± Gu Xiaoxi swallowed hard, unsure if she was scared or embarrassed, and in a fleeting moment, felt as though her heart would burst from her chest, overwhelming her with a suffocating palpitation.


    ¡°I just want to tell you, my territory isn¡¯t a place you can just enter as you please!¡± he said, his voice low and husky, bewitching, yet each word seemed to be squeezed out from between clenched teeth, cold and frightening.


    With a slight increase in pressure on her wrist, Gu Xiaoxi, caught off guard, surged forward and fell into his arms.


    Her entire body leaned against his shoulder, feeling startled, angry, and ashamed all at once.


    Suddenly, the faint scent of mint emanating from him engulfed all her senses.


    She felt like a cat whose fur had been rubbed the wrong way.


    ¡°Let go!¡±


    ¡°Quan Shaoqing, release me!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi used all her strength but couldn¡¯t break free from his grip.


    In a burst of anger, she bit hard onto his white neck¡ªshe couldn¡¯t help it; as she had fallen into his embrace, his neck was just beside her mouth, a convenient target for her teeth.


    Quan Shaoqing, in pain, released her.


    Gu Xiaoxi took the opportunity to slide off the bed, standing with a pillow in her hands, glaring at him defensively, her cheeks flushed with anger as she yelled, ¡°Quan Shaoqing!


    Do you even realize what you¡¯re doing?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing lifted his head, glancing sideways at Gu Xiaoxi with his arms crossed and a posture that exuded casual ease.


    He leaned back against the headboard with a seriousness in his tone that had never been heard before, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say I could do whatever I wanted, as long as I took responsibility afterward?¡±


    ¡°Crap!¡± Gu Xiaoxi immediately reacted with indignant fury, ¡°I only allowed you to secretly admire my perfect sleeping face.¡±


    ¡°...!¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s eyes flickered with a playful laugh.


    His gaze shot toward Gu Xiaoxi, surveying her snow-white legs, his eyes full of deep curiosity, ¡°So, will you come to my room again next time?¡±


    As he spoke, a vague scrutiny appeared on his face.


    Ah ah ah!


    ¡°You pervert!


    Absolute lunatic!¡± Gu Xiaoxi hurriedly used the pillow to shield her legs, her skin flushed with anger.


    After giving Quan Shaoqing a fierce glare, it took her a while to gather her senses and stomp away furiously.


    She ran back to her room in one breath, slammed the door shut forcefully, and leaned against it, gasping for air.


    Despite the crisp clarity of the morning, she felt uncomfortably hot and bothered.


    In the deepest recesses of her heart, a special seed seemed to stir restlessly, sprouting new shoots.


    Thus, her mind was filled with images of Quan Shaoqing¡¯s demonic countenance, his enchanting voice, and the unique fragrance that belonged to him alone.


    Even though she had just been bullied by him, she didn¡¯t detest him as much as she had expected to afterward!


    Quan Shaoqing sat on the bed for a long time, his gaze moving away from the door and resting on the disheveled bedding, his lips curving into a wicked smile, ¡°Girl, you¡¯re still too green to play with me.¡±


    He got out of bed, his eyes gleaming with the cunning of a fox.


    Last night, because of Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s sudden intrusion, he hadn¡¯t slept well again.


    But, he was used to waking up early.


    He stood at the window, looking down at the vast land below.


    The morning light bathed the pavilions, the grass stretched out its leaves, the soil greedily absorbed the dew, and in the distance, the blue sky framed the white clouds against the winding mountain ranges.


    Another bright and sunny day had begun.


    Yet, the day was only just starting.


    He hoped that on the road ahead, Gu Xiaoxi wouldn¡¯t disappoint him.


    The thin line of dawn also cast Quan Shaoqing¡¯s tall, sturdy silhouette against the mountain range, imposing and overbearing, iron-blooded and merciless, like a supreme ruler that dominated the world, looking down upon all.


    Quan Shaoqing suddenly felt a sting on his neck and, upon touching it, realized it was bloody.


    Hastily checking the mirror, he saw a row of neat, adorable bite marks on his neck, still oozing blood.


    ¡°Not the slightest bit merciful with that bite, eh!¡± Quan Shaoqing muttered to himself, casually covering the wound with a band-aid.


    However, he thought, after such a scare, Gu Xiaoxi surely wouldn¡¯t dare enter his room again.

 Chapter 31 - 31 001 New Recruit Reporting

    ?31: 001 New Recruit Reporting 31: 001 New Recruit Reporting On the broad avenue leading to the new recruits¡¯ company in Division Z, four military vehicles were in transit.


    This was the last batch of recruits enlisting, totaling forty people.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s car arrived just in time, dropping Gu Xiaoxi off at the entrance of the new recruits¡¯ company.


    Quan Shaoqing sat in the car, without getting out.


    He handed the backpack to Gu Xiaoxi, then fastened the collar of her uniform, and placed the military cap on her head.


    His eyes were filled with tender doting.


    ¡°Train hard!¡±


    Without saying a word, Gu Xiaoxi got out of the car.


    However, before she left, she turned back seriously, ¡°Find out how my mom really died for me.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing was startled but then nodded.


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t say much more and walked toward the barracks with her baggage.


    Quan Shaoqing looked through the car window at the figure of Gu Xiaoxi.


    Slender though she was, she stood as straight as a pine.


    The morning sun shone on her, casting an air of casual grace and cool indifference.


    Truly, when she got serious, the impression she left was deep, especially those eyes¡ªit was impossible to guess her thoughts.


    A soldier by Quan Shaoqing¡¯s side delivered Gu Xiaoxi to the doors of the new recruits¡¯ company and, after giving a few instructions, the guard sent her to the new recruits¡¯ check-in.


    By then, the last batch of new recruits had already disembarked from the vehicles.


    Several dozen people had already congregated under the national flag in the courtyard of the new recruits¡¯ company.


    Gu Xiaoxi, with her backpack, naturally blended into the crowd.


    Many new recruits around her were whispering and laughing, their faces beaming with curiosity and excitement about the army.


    Standing under the national flag, backpack on shoulders, Gu Xiaoxi looked up at the flag rippling in the wind.


    Her face, pure and serene, revealed a slight smile while her cool brows and eyes radiated determination, her pupils fiery with the reflection of the sun.


    To become a soldier.


    She had arrived!


    Just as you wished, Quan Shaoqing.


    She embarked on a path she wasn¡¯t willing to take, but now that she had chosen it,


    She would carve out a splendid avenue of her own.


    There she stood, effortlessly poised, exquisitely beautiful and tall in stature, her silhouette dazzling.


    She quietly became the center of attention.


    Groups of male recruits stood together, sneaking glances at her, and even though some wanted to approach and strike up a conversation, they were deterred by her cool demeanor, not daring to get close.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, you¡¯re here too?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi heard someone call her name and turned to find the source of the voice.


    She saw, not far away, a girl with bright eyes and white teeth, tall and beaming with a splendid smile.


    Those lively large eyes always shimmered with a foxy cunning.


    She certainly hadn¡¯t forgotten that she had once stolen from her.


    ¡°Yo, you¡¯re recovered?¡± Gu Xiaoxi set down her backpack and greeted calmly.


    Feeling a bit warm, she took off her cap to fan herself.


    Song Jingyi almost choked on old grievances upon hearing that, her brows furrowing fiercely, ¡°Hey, are you trying to infuriate me on purpose?!


    Considering your good deed of helping the orphanage, I won¡¯t hold it against you, sister.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s gaze returned from wandering, locking onto her chest, ¡°Tsk, your chest isn¡¯t as big as mine, and you still want to be my sister?¡±


    ¡°...¡± Song Jingyi.


    Alright, she conceded.


    Song Jingyi put down her bag and stepped forward, resting her hand on Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s shoulder, the two of them standing nearly the same height, ¡°Then you show me, how big...¡±


    ¡°Ouch ouch ouch... Gu Xiaoxi... you...¡±


    Suddenly, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s pale fingers were wrapped around Song Jingyi¡¯s wrist, and in Song Jingyi¡¯s hand was Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s cellphone.


    It seems in the brief moment she spoke, Song Jingyi had managed to steal Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s phone.


    Gu Xiaoxi raised an eyebrow nonchalantly, glancing sideways at Song Jingyi, her cool eyes flashing with a hint of cold sharpness, ¡°Next time, if you dare to extend your hand in front of me again, I¡¯ll break it.¡±


    Song Jingyi¡¯s face turned as white as a sheet from the pain, her entire arm numb, ¡°Fine, I was just kidding.


    I¡¯ll call you ¡®boss,¡¯ is that okay?


    Let go, or I might as well say goodbye to this arm.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi glanced at her sideways, took her phone back from her hand, and tucked it back into her pocket.


    This was, after all, her private possession.


    Massaging her wrist, Song Jingyi grimaced in pain.


    Her thievery had always been stealthy and unnoticed, yet she repeatedly failed in front of Gu Xiaoxi.


    Though Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s brazenness was infuriating, deep down Song Jingyi felt not just admiration but also gratitude towards her.


    If it hadn¡¯t been for her help, she wouldn¡¯t have been able to leave the orphanage to pursue a career in the army.


    ¡°Huff, huff!


    All assemble!¡±


    The company commander of the third company for new recruits, Li Shaoyun, stepped out alongside the instructor.


    The piercing whistle commanded everyone to assemble.


    With the team drawing together, everyone stood up straight.


    ¡°All present, attention!...


    At ease!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s gaze slipped past the speaking company commander in the front row and noticed a few men approaching from not far away.


    At that moment, the corner of her eye involuntarily twitched fiercely.


    One of those men was the instructor she had splashed with a bucket of cold water.


    Her gaze shot over, and as if the man had felt it, he suddenly looked up and met her eyes.


    Their eyes collided in mid-air, and Gu Xiaoxi nonchalantly turned her head away.


    Wu Yi, however, narrowed his eyes coldly.


    How could he forget that arrogant wild girl from just three days ago?


    He had been dreaming of catching her and teaching her a harsh lesson.


    He never expected to encounter her here.


    After the new recruits were called by name, the platoon leaders from above began selecting people.


    Although Gu Xiaoxi wasn¡¯t afraid of Wu Yi, she had splashed water on him after all.


    To avoid unnecessary trouble, she still prayed not to be chosen by Wu Yi.


    But of course!


    Wu Yi stopped right in front of Gu Xiaoxi.


    The man was clad in camouflage, with an imposing bearing.


    Beneath his thick eyebrows, his eyes narrowed dangerously.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, right!¡±


    ¡°Report!


    Yes!¡±


    Wu Yi sneered, ¡°It¡¯s you.


    The one who ran away a few days ago!¡±


    At his words, the surrounding people cast unusual glances at Gu Xiaoxi.


    In the army, desertion is the greatest taboo.


    ¡°Report, not a deserter!¡± Gu Xiaoxi stood up straight, her tone cold.


    Wu Yi found it amusing.


    ¡°Oh!


    Not running away?


    Then tell me, is our military base a leek patch?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re mistaken, Platoon Leader.


    Last time I was kidnapped here, this time I came willingly.¡±


    Wu Yi was instantly furious; he hadn¡¯t expected Gu Xiaoxi to dare talk back to him.


    ¡°Fall out!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi pushed the military cap on her head.


    She looked at Wu Yi, her eyes shining like gems harboring dazzling brilliance.


    Her thin lips curved up slightly, her smile¡¯s arc seemingly cold yet alluring.


    For a moment, she exuded an aloofness that kept others at bay.


    Much like the clouds on the horizon, bright and dazzling, yet unattainable.


    Wu Yi¡¯s heart quivered.


    Why did he suddenly have such an unreal impression?


    She was just a little girl...


    At the same time, he had to admit, among all the new recruits he¡¯d seen, Gu Xiaoxi was the most special.


    An indescribably complex aura surrounded her, irresistibly compelling one to uncover more.


    Gu Xiaoxi lifted her foot, stepping out.


    It was at this moment that another cold and angry voice rang out.


    ¡°Report to the company commander.


    I¡¯ll take this soldier.¡±


    There was a commotion!


    Were two platoon leaders competing for a new recruit?


    As another resounding male voice filled the air, Gu Xiaoxi once again became the focus of everyone present.


    The one who had just spoken was the platoon leader of the fourth platoon.


    A soldier who had returned from Special Forces, a king among soldiers who had been tricked by Gu Xiaoxi, the deputy commander of the Flame Special Forces, Shao Changfeng.


    Gu Xiaoxi turned her head and saw not far off, a man stood with his arms crossed, his stance ironclad, his eyes like a wolf¡¯s, tinged with crimson, glaring menacingly at her.


    Suddenly, Gu Xiaoxi felt a cold breeze hit the back of her neck, sending chills down to her heels.


    Cry me a river!


    She seemed to have only been in the military for three days, so how did she manage to offend so many people?

 Chapter 32 - 32 002 The first show of strength ended up feeding the dog

    ?32: 002 The first show of strength ended up feeding the dog.


    32: 002 The first show of strength ended up feeding the dog.


    She seemingly had only been in the army for three days, yet how had she managed to offend so many people?


    Wu Yi, hands on hips, glanced sideways at Shao Changfeng, ¡°What¡¯s the matter?


    Trying to steal my recruit?¡±


    Shao Changfeng¡¯s brows were furrowed, his demeanor as imposing as ever, ¡°This is also someone I had my eye on!¡±


    Though his words were directed at Wu Yi, his gaze landed on Gu Xiaoxi, sharp as a pointed knife, as if wanting to poke a hole right through her.


    Wu Yi and Shao Changfeng glared at each other viciously, their gazes clashing in mid-air like lightning, instantly sparking countless fiery sparks.


    ¡°She¡¯s already my person,¡± Wu Yi declared, clenching his fists as he warned Shao Changfeng.


    Shao Changfeng scoffed, ¡°She¡¯s someone I set my sights on long ago.¡±


    The two looked at each other in silence, their faces red with anger.


    Those who didn¡¯t know better might think they were quite fond of Gu Xiaoxi.


    Only Gu Xiaoxi herself knew that these two were definitely not easy to deal with.


    Falling into their hands, one wouldn¡¯t die but would certainly be skinned alive.


    Gu Xiaoxi stood up straight, casting a pleading look at the company commander.


    Her large watery eyes, misty with a thin veil, were as expressive as if they could speak, full of grievance and fear, breaking the heart of anyone who saw them.


    Li Shaoyun¡¯s heart softened, unable to bear watching any longer.


    Such a bright-eyed girl, if she fell into the hands of two cold-hearted, malicious Yama Kings, who knows what might happen.


    ¡°Wu Yi, Shao Changfeng, fall in!¡± Li Shaoyun¡¯s resonant voice rang out.


    Wu Yi and Shao Changfeng immediately saluted and stood at attention, returning to their original places.


    However, their positions were right next to Gu Xiaoxi.


    She could feel two cold gazes landing on her, making her arms break out in goosebumps.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi!¡± Li Shaoyun held the roll call register, his tone serious.


    ¡°Present!¡±


    ¡°Third platoon, ninth squad, squad leader Ning Jiu to receive the recruit.¡±


    Whoosh!...


    Shao Changfeng and Wu Yi suddenly stiffened.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s lips curled up, her eyes crescent-moon shaped, her large eyes glinting with a mischievous light.


    She strode toward another squad leader, Ning Jiu.


    He was a man with a baby face, stout and robust, with a tigerish vibe, and a radiant smile.


    At first glance, he seemed extremely affable.


    ¡°Hello, squad leader!¡± Gu Xiaoxi saluted respectfully.


    Ning Jiu chuckled, ¡°Not bad!


    Since the company commander has appointed you, come with me!¡±


    So, under the furious gazes of Wu Yi and Shao Changfeng, Gu Xiaoxi turned back to toss them a triumphant seductive look, then confidently and spiritedly followed her new squad leader.


    The two men were left fuming, flames practically shooting from their eyes!


    The instructor standing behind the company commander touched his nose, speechless.


    What a cunning girl she was; by acting cute in front of the company commander, she had directly escaped the devil¡¯s clutches.


    Still, he shed a sympathetic tear for Gu Xiaoxi.


    Although she had escaped the tiger¡¯s den, she had fallen into a wolf¡¯s lair.


    If you thought Ning Jiu was the kind of frank and honest, gentle and endearing person, then you would be sorely mistaken.


    A typical new recruit¡¯s smiling tiger, a crafty Black Fox, second to none in schemes of mischief, no one dare claim the first spot.


    The instructor looked up and saw the company commander with a cunning smile on his lips, shedding another two sympathetic tears for Gu Xiaoxi.


    They were all a bunch of heartless characters!


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, tell me about your specialties!¡± Ning Jiu led Gu Xiaoxi toward the ninth squad¡¯s training field.


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes, her smile as pure as a blank sheet of paper, ¡°Running!¡±


    ¡°How many kilometers can you run in half an hour?


    Don¡¯t be nervous, since you¡¯re my soldier, I need to get to know you better.


    Don¡¯t feel constrained,¡± Ning Jiu said cheerfully.


    His baby face seemed especially innocuous.


    ¡°Ten kilometers!¡± Gu Xiaoxi pondered for a moment, as if mustering all her courage to spit out the number.


    Her expression seemed a bit reluctant.


    However, Ning Jiu failed to notice the cunning flash that passed through her eyes.


    Upon hearing this, a glint of realization shot through Ning Jiu¡¯s dark eyes.


    ¡°How many push-ups can you do in a minute?¡±


    ¡°Platoon leader, not many!


    Twenty!¡±


    ¡°Do you know how to handle a gun?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi giggled, flashing her bright white teeth, sweet and endearing, ¡°Platoon leader, I¡¯ve never played with one.¡±


    Ning Jiu became curious.


    Her physical fitness was only so-so, not having played with guns meant she was no Sharpshooter.


    So what were Wu Yi and Shao Changfeng fussing over?


    After all the trouble, he was dealing with an exceptionally pretty girl, the kind he could easily grab a handful of in his ranks.


    He had already sized up Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s level in his mind.


    So, he watched her with a beaming smile, pointing to the training ground not far away, ¡°Put on your pack and stand in the military posture over there for me.


    Don¡¯t move until I say stop.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi smiled faintly, saluted him, then obediently walked toward the training ground with her pack on her back.


    Ning Jiu followed up to make some adjustments to Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s stance, then went to watch the other recruits train, seemingly completely forgetting about her.


    And Gu Xiaoxi stood from early morning when the recruits were enlisted until the sun went down.


    Like a stake, she stood there unmoving, her clothes soaked through with sweat long ago.


    The entire eight hours took Ning Jiu by surprise.


    A recruit standing in military posture would last no more than four hours at most; if caught under the scorching sun, they would either suffer heatstroke and pass out or start to complain of exhaustion and collapse.


    However, Gu Xiaoxi stood there without a single movement from beginning to end.


    Her figure was slender, yet it exuded an unyielding pride.


    Despite her pale lips and sweat-drenched face, she clenched her teeth and remained silent.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi!¡± Ning Jiu stood in front of her, his gaze focused.


    ¡°Present!¡±


    ¡°At ease!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi felt her entire legs go numb; for a moment, she was tempted to sit on the ground and stretch her limbs properly.


    She came to be a soldier, so she did not fear any test or punishment.


    Not only was she unafraid, but she also became stronger through these hardships.


    Even though her skills were decent, she had yet to reach the peak, so she could endure any pain and was ready to surpass herself.


    Ning Jiu stood in front of Gu Xiaoxi, his big eyes twinkling playfully, ¡°Tell me about your feelings!¡±


    He had already guessed what Gu Xiaoxi would say ¡ª either protesting his unfair treatment, accusing him of bullying, or complaining of tiredness and hunger.


    Yet unexpectedly, Gu Xiaoxi wiped the sweat from her forehead, looked at him with her pale lips slightly moving, and coolly said, ¡°Report!


    Next time when standing in military posture, could you let me use the restroom?¡±


    ¡°...¡± Ning Jiu.


    He scrutinized Gu Xiaoxi, sternly fixing his gaze on her, trying to see complaints and anger in her eyes, even just a hint would do.


    But there was none.


    Her eyes were like the vast night sky, as if twinkling stars were glimmering within them, irresistibly drawing people deep into their allure.


    They were the most beautiful eyes he had ever seen, as if they were hiding a secret treasure.


    Ning Jiu gave a slight smile.


    He had a preliminary understanding of Gu Xiaoxi.


    Unyielding willpower, tough as bones, the first attempt to intimidate her went straight to the dogs, not the slightest bit shaken by him.


    ¡°Your dorm is in building six, room 609!


    Go put your things away.


    The squad leader will teach you how to tidy up.


    Inspection at seven o¡¯clock tomorrow morning.


    Anything unrelated should be stowed away.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi turned, looking up at the dormitory building not far away.


    It was already crowded with onlookers, not only girls but also boys.


    Even from the office windows of the rear service unit, people crammed to watch.

 Chapter 33 - 33 003

    ?33: 003 360-degree flip guard!


    33: 003 360-degree flip guard!


    Gu Xiaoxi pushed her military cap atop her head and squinted her eyes slightly, heading towards Building 6, Room 609.


    Everywhere she went, people turned their heads and whispered to each other.


    In the company commander¡¯s office.


    The company commander put down his binoculars and chuckled at Li Shaoyun, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, this guy is something else!


    Ning Jiu might not be able to handle her.¡±


    Li Shaoyun smiled faintly.


    The regiment commander had secretly instructed him to give special attention to this female soldier.


    Now it seemed there was no need for that¡ªshe had already become the focus of the entire platoon of new recruits.


    A true thorn!


    Just standing at attention, she had made a name for herself in the platoon of new recruits.


    *


    Gu Xiaoxi, carrying her bag on her back, ascended to the sixth floor.


    She looked at the numbers 608 and took a step toward the next dormitory.


    It was nearing dusk at this time.


    The new recruits had not started formal training yet, those who arrived early were learning the military rules and getting their internal affairs in order.


    Therefore, in the evening, everyone had two hours to freely explore and get acquainted with the military camp.


    Three female soldiers stood at the entrance of Room 609.


    One of them, wearing light makeup and looking pretty, was dressed in camouflage and stood with her arms crossed, blocking the door.


    Behind her stood two other female soldiers, looking at Gu Xiaoxi with unfriendly expressions.


    ¡°The new girl!¡± Yan Xiao raised her chin haughtily, her gaze falling on Gu Xiaoxi with disdainful snorts, ¡°You¡¯re making quite the entrance on your first day.


    Tell us, what tricks did you use to get two instructors to extend an olive branch to you?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi carried her bag in one hand, her belongings draped over her shoulders, exuding a spirit of rebellious nonconformity.


    ¡°Room 609, right?


    This is where I¡¯m living.


    If you guys are bored, the platoon leader said he can arrange a ten-kilometer night march for you.¡±


    ¡°New girl, our sister Yan is asking you a question!


    Let me tell you, if you don¡¯t make things clear today, forget about getting in through this door...


    don¡¯t even think about it...¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi lifted her beautiful eyelids, her gaze suddenly falling on Zhang Xia standing behind Yan Xiao.


    The latter only felt as if she had been splashed with a bucket of cold water.


    Frightened, she instinctively took a step back, shrinking her neck, and the words stuck in her throat.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s gaze then turned to another girl behind Yan Xiao, who quickly stepped aside, pretending as if nothing had happened, and ran off.


    Only Yan Xiao remained, her dark eyes filled with scorn as she stared at Gu Xiaoxi, the hostility emanating from her impossible to ignore.


    ¡°I¡¯m talking to you?


    Are you deaf?!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi reached to her ear and pretended to dig out something, a trace of amusement flickering in her eyes as she stepped forward with a slight smile towards Yan Xiao, ¡°Do you want to know how I caught the instructors¡¯ attention?¡±


    ¡°Stop beating around the bush!


    Don¡¯t think you¡¯re something special just because you can stand properly in formation!¡± Yan Xiao completely overlooked the hint of danger in Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s words, blinded by jealousy.


    Shao Changfeng was her fiance?, so why, during the selection of recruits, did he not choose her but instead favored Gu Xiaoxi, even competing with Wu Yi to recruit her?


    Especially after seeing how pretty Gu Xiaoxi was, that made her feel even worse.


    However, before Yan Xiao¡¯s thoughts could continue, she was met with a suffocating aura.


    The next moment, she felt a pain in her shoulder, lost her balance, and tumbled to the ground, looking both awkward and embarrassed.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, how dare you lay a hand on your comrade.¡± Yan Xiao was like a fluffed-up angry cat, glaring at Gu Xiaoxi resentfully, her chest heaving in anger.


    Gu Xiaoxi had barely touched her, yet she fell to the ground and struggled to get up.


    Gu Xiaoxi stood in front of her, bending over and looking down at her from above, ¡°Didn¡¯t you ask me to show you how to catch the instructors¡¯ attention?


    Now I¡¯ve taught you.


    Make sure you learn it well!


    However, not everyone can master it.


    Otherwise, no matter how flamboyantly you dress up, no one would care to give you a glance.¡±


    Yan Xiao¡¯s face turned an ashen blue with rage.


    Isn¡¯t this deliberately provoking her?


    Hitting her where it hurts?


    Suggesting that no matter how pretty she dressed up, that man wouldn¡¯t want to spare her a second glance?


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi!


    You...¡± Yan Xiao stretched out her hand, pointing fiercely at Gu Xiaoxi, her teeth grinding together, her face red with pent-up fury, her breathing rapid, unable to utter another word.


    Gu Xiaoxi stood upright, her curled lashes blinked, her gaze was lively and captivating.


    She slung her bag over her shoulder and strode towards the dorm.


    Zhang Xia timidly shrank her neck, grateful that she hadn¡¯t followed Yan Xiao in acting arrogantly; otherwise, if she had been the one to be kicked, she was certain the pain would have been indescribable.


    Of course, the quarrel at the entrance of Dormitory 609 attracted the attention of other female students.


    Everyone looked at Yan Xiao with sympathy.


    It was Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s first day and military training hadn¡¯t even started yet, but she was already being punished to stand in a military pose¡ªit was clear that she was a troublemaker right off the bat.


    And yet she seemed to be completely oblivious, acting high and mighty; she was asking for it!


    But Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s move¡ª¡¯drawing the instructor¡¯s attention¡¯ was indeed practical in reality!


    No sooner had Gu Xiaoxi stepped inside than someone tattled to the class leader.


    And so, the class leader came rushing over in a whirlwind.


    It took quite a while for Yan Xiao to get up from the ground; her face had turned the color of liver.


    Upon seeing the class leader arriving, she immediately went up to complain, sobbing.


    ¡°Class leader, Gu Xiaoxi bullied me!¡± She wiped her tears and stretched out her hand, which was scraped and bleeding from earlier.


    *


    At that moment, Gu Xiaoxi was taking in her soon-to-be dorm room.


    The room was large, with five beds and spaces for ten, and came complete with wardrobes, shoe cabinets, and desks.


    At first glance, it didn¡¯t seem crowded at all.


    Inside, four people were tidying up, mainly arranging their beds as though they were practicing folding their blankets.


    The scuffle between Gu Xiaoxi and Yan Xiao outside had only lasted a minute; of course, the people inside had seen it, they just weren¡¯t nosy enough to run outside to watch.


    ¡°New girl!


    That bed¡¯s unoccupied.¡±


    The one speaking to Gu Xiaoxi was a hot woman with a more voluptuous figure, almond-shaped eyes, and naturally flirtatious features exuding confidence with every still and moving moment.


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s gaze fell on a corner not far away, and she walked over briskly.


    ¡°Since we¡¯re now comrades-in-arms and roommates, let¡¯s get acquainted.


    My name is Qin Chu,¡± said the curvy bombshell.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi was not a woman of many words.


    She approached her spot and opened her closet to start unpacking when she realized something.


    Damn it, the items were all packed by Quan Shaoqing.


    Except for a pair of sneakers and a set of casual clothes, there were also two packs of ¡®Soft Cotton Feel Ultra Sleep 420¡¯ along with ¡®Daily Use Stretch-Fit!¡¯.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s face turned dark.


    No wonder the bag was bulging but felt so light.


    He knew her better than she knew herself!


    Sulking, Gu Xiaoxi touched her nose and tossed the two packs of Sophie into the cabinet.


    Afterwards, she stared at the words on the black plastic package and couldn¡¯t help but shudder.


    ¡°360¡ã turn protection!¡±


    All of a sudden, it made her think of the incident that morning when she got out of bed...


    For a moment, she couldn¡¯t tell whether he was a good man or a bad man.

 Chapter 34 - 34 004

    ?34: 004 Please do not underestimate Gu Xiaoxi!


    34: 004 Please do not underestimate Gu Xiaoxi!


    Just as Gu Xiaoxi finished putting away her things, the door to the dormitory swung open, and a loud whistle sounded.


    At the same time, the same was happening in the other dorms.


    The squad leader¡¯s eyes swept over everyone in the dormitory, and she bellowed, ¡°Fall in!


    Everyone stand by the side of your own bed.¡±


    Yan Xiao blinked back her grievances, thinking that the squad leader¡¯s first order of business upon entering would be to confront Gu Xiaoxi, but instead, it was as if he had forgotten the incident entirely.


    Everyone quickly fell into line, but the formation was all twisted and uneven.


    Yuan Shang glanced over the dormitory, then launched into a lengthy lecture about the messy blankets on the beds and the disarray of stools, teacups, and other daily necessities scattered around.


    The girls all wore pained expressions, silent under the scolding.


    For new recruits, maintaining order within the dorm was a mandatory requirement, and Gu Xiaoxi was no exception.


    Under the squad leader¡¯s demonstration twice over, she sorted all her belongings in ten minutes, placing them in the designated spots.


    And her speed at folding blankets, she took just two minutes to fold hers into a neat tofu block shape.


    Yuan Shang was so astonished he couldn¡¯t close his mouth.


    The other girls stared at Gu Xiaoxi as if they had seen a ghost.


    She must be some kind of freak!


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s housekeeping is up to standard!¡± Yuan Shang praised without stint.


    Gu Xiaoxi gave him a standard military salute, ¡°Reporting, can I go have my meal now?¡±


    Yuan Shang looked Gu Xiaoxi up and down, his throat felt somewhat dry, and he hesitantly asked, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, does your family have a military background?¡±


    ¡°Reporting!


    No,¡± Gu Xiaoxi replied with a grin, ¡°But, I want to be number one!¡±


    Instantly, all the girls in the class snickered, their eyes full of mockery.


    To aspire to be number one in housekeeping, she wouldn¡¯t be aiming to sweep all the number one spots in the troop¡¯s assessments, would she?


    It was important to remember that this new recruits camp consisted of five hundred and forty people.


    Of these five hundred and forty people, eighty percent were male, and sixty percent had special skills, such as combat, sharpshooting, running, and so on.


    There might even be dark horses yet to emerge.


    She was just a girl who had just come of age, what made her so arrogant as to make such wild claims!


    ¡°Reporting squad leader!


    Gu Xiaoxi is being dishonest.


    She should be properly educated to reflect on her behavior!¡± Yan Xiao turned her head, her eyes looking at Gu Xiaoxi as if she were looking at a fool.


    But Gu Xiaoxi showed little expression, only her dark eyes were as black as a night where one cannot see their own hand before them.


    Beautiful fox-like cunning occasionally shone through the corners of her eyes; there was a faint contempt between her clear and ethereal brows; her straight back exuded confidence.


    That plain but proud temperament made people involuntary want to believe her.


    Really, she could be the best in every category.


    Yuan Shang¡¯s gaze remained fixedly on Gu Xiaoxi, and after a moment, he came back to his senses, feeling shaken.


    He had actually been deeply moved by her words, and for that split second, it was as though he had seen a sovereign rising.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, it is now officers¡¯ dining time.


    You may go and see if there is any leftover food,¡± Yuan Shang ordered, disregarding Yan Xiao¡¯s comment.


    Gu Xiaoxi saluted and walked towards the exit of the dormitory.


    Right at the doorway, she could still hear Yuan Shang chastising the other recruits to reorganize their interiors.


    Yan Xiao trembled with anger.


    Why couldn¡¯t the instructor see Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s true colors?


    It was nearly seven o¡¯clock in the evening.


    The sky had completely darkened.


    The new recruits camp dining hall was still brightly lit.


    Counting the company commanders, platoon leaders, instructors, and other logistics personnel, there were probably more than twenty.


    In the dining hall, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s sudden entrance caused a group of big men, who were scarfing down their food with various ranks on their shoulders, to suddenly choke on their rice.


    Especially Wu Yi, Shao Changfeng, Ning Jiu, and Li Shaoyun.


    They coughed loudly as if they had seen a ghost, their cheeks flushed red from choking.


    With a smile on her face, Gu Xiaoxi stood in front of the group of officers and gave a standard military salute, ¡°Reporting, is there any food left?


    I have been hungry all day.¡±


    Her tone sounded like she was stating a fact, and her voice did not betray any emotion.


    Wu Yi put down his chopsticks and frowned, ¡°Recruit!


    Your mealtime has long passed.


    There is no dinner for you here, solve it yourself.¡±


    Ning Jiu took a napkin to wipe his mouth, and afterward, he sized up Gu Xiaoxi and pointed to the kitchen behind him, ¡°Go to the back, and ask the kitchen to make something for you.¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡± Gu Xiaoxi gave everyone a brilliant smile and ran towards the back kitchen.


    Seeing Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s disappearing back, Wu Yi gave Ning Jiu a thumbs up, ¡°Black Fox, you¡¯re still the most clever!¡±


    ¡°Old Hu from the kitchen staff is famously impartial, aside from the regiment commander, no matter who it is, if you missed mealtime, forget about asking him to cook.


    He wouldn¡¯t even give you leftovers!


    I think this girl is going to be in for it,¡± said Lu Xian, the second company commander, giving Li Shaoyun a thumbs up.


    Then, glancing in the direction where Gu Xiaoxi disappeared, ¡°That said, I like this soldier.


    If you don¡¯t want her, I¡¯ll trade one of our third platoon¡¯s female soldiers for her.¡±


    ¡°Okay, trade for Zhang Jingyue!¡± Ning Jiu interjected directly.


    Lu Xian scoffed coldly and disdainfully glanced at Ning Jiu, ¡°Dream on!¡±


    Zhang Jingyue came from a military family¡ªa lineage of officers¡ªand belonged to a wealthy and noble household in A-city.


    Once she joined the new recruits, everyone knew she was a sharpshooter who rarely missed.


    She had studied finance and computer science abroad and obtained dual master¡¯s degrees by the age of twenty.


    Not only was she a beautiful girl, but her looks were also no less impressive than Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s, and she was gentle and polite to others, exuding an unconstrained elegance.


    It was with great effort that Lu Xian managed to snare such a top recruit; naturally, he was not willing to trade her away.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s resume clearly stated that she graduated from Luoli City High School, was an orphan, and had no special talents listed at all.


    After Ning Jiu¡¯s probing, she was at most considered a stubborn wild girl.


    What did she have to compare with Zhang Jingyue?


    Hearing the conversation between the two company commanders, everyone continued their meal, all waiting to see how Gu Xiaoxi would manage to get some food.


    ¡°Company commanders, I ask you not to underestimate Gu Xiaoxi!¡±


    At the quiet dining table, Shao Changfeng suddenly spoke up.


    It was like thunder out of the blue, leaving everyone with an incredulous expression.


    Wu Yi put down his chopsticks and glared at him fiercely, but he hadn¡¯t forgotten the incident of fighting over a recruit with him.


    ¡°Are you feverish, Shao Changfeng, or have you fallen for Gu Xiaoxi?¡±


    ¡°Not at all!¡± Shao Changfeng¡¯s expression stiffened, and a complex look flashed in his dark eyes beneath his thick eyebrows.


    He wanted to say something, but in the end, the words remained stuck in his throat, unspoken.


    Gu Xiaoxi, someone who could cause the higher-ups to dispatch special forces to chase her, definitely had a significant figure backing her.


    Moreover, she had escaped from their clutches.


    Although Flame¡¯s disbandment was a grievous injustice, there was nothing more to be said.


    Fifty men took a young girl too lightly, resulting in their inability to catch her once she escaped.


    If this happened on the battlefield, giving the enemy a chance to breathe, that mistake would be irreversible and fatal.


    ¡°Hahaha!


    That¡¯s obviously the case.


    Shao Changfeng has fallen for Gu Xiaoxi.


    Hey!


    Tell us, have you met her before, or was it love at first sight?


    No wonder you wanted to compete with me for her.


    You should¡¯ve said so earlier!


    If you had, I would¡¯ve let her go to you,¡± Wu Yi pointed at Shao Changfeng, laughing lewdly.

 Chapter 35 - 35 005 You are the first!

    ?35: 005 You are the first!


    35: 005 You are the first!


    ¡°What are you talking about?


    It¡¯s not at all what you think.¡± Shao Changfeng had met her no more than three times!


    Like her, what a joke.


    He wished he could teach her a harsh lesson, to avenge the dissolution of Flame.


    ¡°Pfft!¡±


    The group didn¡¯t believe his explanation.


    Moreover, an explanation was essentially a cover-up.


    Shao Changfeng was so frantic that he jumped up and down, the more he explained, the less clear he became.


    But he couldn¡¯t possibly reveal the inside story of Flame¡¯s dissolution, could he?


    The official reason from the higher-ups was: they failed the assessment, directly covering up the fact because of Gu Xiaoxi.


    And they certainly couldn¡¯t expose their own dark history.


    Fifty special forces soldiers failed to catch a new female soldier, letting her escape, which led to them failing the assessment and the team being disbanded?


    The higher-ups had already saved face for them; if he blabbed nonsense, wouldn¡¯t that be terribly embarrassing!


    Shao Changfeng was so choked up he couldn¡¯t breathe, his cheeks turning bright red.


    Finally, he put down his chopsticks, ¡°I¡¯m not eating anymore.


    You guys eat!¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, everyone in the dining hall burst into laughter.


    By this time, Gu Xiaoxi had already left the dining area and was standing at the kitchen doorway.


    Inside, seven people were busily cleaning up the dishes, a rotund uncle wearing a tall hat.


    ¡°Clean every spot, put the leftover greens in the fridge, don¡¯t let them spoil...¡± Hu Yidao was ordering around a few people with his notoriously bad temper, his face fierce and intimidating.


    He turned around and saw someone standing at the kitchen door, intending to scold them.


    Upon a closer look, it turned out to be a very pretty young girl, his words softening somewhat, ¡°Mealtime is over.


    There is nothing left today, remember to come back on time for training tomorrow.¡±


    He felt not an iota of sympathy for those who didn¡¯t complete their training tasks on time, came back late, and missed their meal.


    Even if she was a beautiful woman.


    And Gu Xiaoxi, standing at the doorway, lifted a light smile on her delicate face and waltzed in, ¡°Uncle, the company commander asked me to come over and mingle with everyone!¡±


    As she spoke, she took out a pack of cigarettes from her pocket.


    From the kitchen door, she handed one to each person, the bunch of men who enjoyed a good smoke found a perfect remedy.


    The busy cooks, upon receiving the gift, were all warm-hearted, and seeing the newcomer Gu Xiaoxi, they all smiled pleasantly at her.


    Gu Xiaoxi finally approached Old Hu.


    ¡°Uncle, it¡¯s a small token of appreciation, please accept it with my regards!¡±


    ¡°Old Hu, this is imported Kaz.


    A single one is worth one thousand yuan, even more expensive than cigars!


    Ordinary people can¡¯t buy this even with money.¡± Just then, cook Zhang Yi exclaimed in shock as he held the cigarettes.


    Because of his love for smoking, he had an incomprehensible desire and attachment to top-grade cigarettes.


    Seeing them suddenly here made him disbelieve, and he confirmed several times before calling out.


    Old Hu stared at Gu Xiaoxi, his wide and generous face flickering with uncertainty.


    What else would someone come here for, if not looking for food?


    Though Gu Xiaoxi hadn¡¯t stated her purpose outright.


    Hu Yidao¡¯s eyes landed on the pack of cigarettes in Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s hand, his tiger-like eyes widened, as if he was checking the authenticity of the cigarettes and at the same time coveting something he cherished.


    This girl was clearly bribing him.


    Could he accept it?


    ¡°Uncle, if you don¡¯t want it, forget it.¡± Gu Xiaoxi chuckled, decisively stuffing the pack back into her pocket.


    Then she called out to the other cooks, ¡°Since everyone is busy, I¡¯ll be going.


    I¡¯ll come back another time to chat with everyone!¡±


    No sooner had she spoken than Zhang Yi was the first to react, ¡°Wait a minute, I¡¯ll get you a few tomatoes.


    Eating them at night is good for your skin!¡± He couldn¡¯t let the beauty leave empty-handed for the sake of that cigarette.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you an apple.¡±


    ¡°I have a boiled egg here.¡±


    At that moment, two or three cooks eagerly brought items from their hands to Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t decline and left after taking them.


    Throughout the entire process, she never glanced at Hu Yidao again.


    However, one didn¡¯t need to guess to know the expression on Hu Yidao¡¯s face at that moment.


    For a man who loved cigarettes, this was more deeply ingrained than the temptation of a beauty to a lecher.


    ¡°Are you the new recruit who was standing at attention today?¡± Hu Yidao¡¯s broad face shifted expressions continually.


    To be honest, this bribe hit him where it hurt!


    Freaking addictive pain.


    It felt like a cat was scratching inside his heart, unbearably itchy and painful!


    ¡°Yes!¡± Gu Xiaoxi turned her head and smiled sweetly at him.


    Hu Yidao folded his arms and sized up Gu Xiaoxi.


    He found the girl in front of him startlingly beautiful, valiant and spirited, smart and quick-witted.


    At first glance, he thought she was a very approachable little girl.


    Upon interacting with her, he felt she was somewhat endearing and very adept at gauging people¡¯s emotions and grasping their characters.


    Then, upon delving deeper, he discovered she was a little fox wearing a facade of innocence.


    Ever since she entered the kitchen squad, she had definitely utilized everyone to her advantage.


    If she had started by bribing him with cigarettes, he would have kicked her out on the spot.


    Yet, she flaunted those limited edition cigarettes, those precious, coveted treasures, right in front of everyone.


    Everyone in the kitchen received some, everyone but him...


    Wasn¡¯t this a clear sign that she wanted him to surrender?


    But he would never privately accept bribes!


    That was his principle.


    ¡°Uncle, if there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯ll be going.¡± Gu Xiaoxi waved to everyone, then walked briskly toward the kitchen door.


    As she turned around, her eyes flickered with a brilliant, sly light.


    No sooner had she stepped out of the kitchen than, just as she expected, Hu Yidao¡¯s voice, trembling, came from behind her, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, is that right!¡±


    ¡°Uncle, yes!¡± Gu Xiaoxi stopped and stood at the door looking back at him.


    ¡°Tell me, what¡¯s your purpose for coming here?¡± Hu Yidao asked knowingly.


    Inside, he cursed himself a thousand times for being caught in a weak spot by a little girl.


    He wanted to try those cigarettes.


    As she walked further away, his craving grew stronger.


    ¡°The company commander said to come here for food,¡± Gu Xiaoxi replied with a narrowed smile, radiating charm.


    She quickly pulled out a cigarette, ran up to Old Hu, and presented them all to him.


    Hu Yidao¡¯s eyes widened, and he heavily patted Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s head with a resentful and self-deprecating anger, ¡°You little scoundrel, I¡¯ve been outplayed by you.


    Tell me, where did you get this stuff?


    For today, I¡¯ll buy this pack from you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too kind, senior.


    I grabbed it from my guardian¡¯s desk before I left home this morning.


    He has plenty of them.


    Consider this as me showing my respect to everyone,¡± Gu Xiaoxi told the truth.


    She had seen the cigarettes on Quan Shaoqing¡¯s desk and took a pack, thinking it might come in handy, not realizing that it indeed would be useful.


    Hu Yidao reached out, pulled a cigarette from the exquisite metal box, and examined it closely, ¡°Really one thousand yuan each?¡±


    Zhang Yi emphasized, ¡°Really!¡± They were definitely luxury items.


    Gu Xiaoxi blinked her large, watery eyes with an expression of confusion.


    She had no idea how much they cost; she only knew that they were Quan Shaoqing¡¯s cigarettes, so they couldn¡¯t be of poor quality.


    Hu Yidao patted Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s head, ¡°Come on, uncle will cook for you.


    But let¡¯s make it clear, I¡¯m buying this from you.


    Accepting bribes privately is a violation of military regulations, and it would lead to a military court.


    If you don¡¯t accept the money, I can¡¯t take the cigarettes.


    I¡¯m cooking for you because you¡¯re a clever girl.


    In all these years, you¡¯re the first to boldly get one over on Old Hu and still have me cook for you!¡±


    In plain terms, he had been played, yet he felt willingly so.


    Hu Yidao picked up the finely made cigarette with a dragon pattern, emitting a faint, unique scent, and continued to shame himself ten thousand times in his heart.


    For his one and only hobby!


    Was it easy for him?


    They say you should strike a snake at its weakest point, and Gu Xiaoxi had definitely hit his vulnerability dead on.

 Chapter 36 - 36 006 Ignore him for a week

    ?36: 006 Ignore him for a week 36: 006 Ignore him for a week In the kitchen, Hu Yidao¡¯s voice could be heard: ¡°Three dishes and one soup, is that enough?¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡±


    ¡°Wild rabbit meat, I hunted it myself.


    It¡¯s not part of military expenses!


    ...¡±


    Half an hour later, in the big dining hall.


    Ning Jiu and Wu Yi were still there, obviously waiting to see Gu Xiaoxi being kicked out.


    But this wait turned out to be half an hour.


    When she came out, she was holding a plate of fragrant stir-fried meat, followed by two or three cooks, each carrying dishes.


    After setting three dishes and one soup on the table, Wu Yi and Ning Jiu walked over looking dumbfounded, then turned to Hu Yidao who followed behind, ¡°Old Hu, that¡¯s not fair.


    For me, you just give a few buns, what on earth did this girl give you as a favor?


    You can¡¯t accept private bribes, you know!¡±


    Hu Yidao put a pot of fragrant steamed rice in front of Gu Xiaoxi with a sideways glance at Wu Yi, ¡°I like the look of this girl, how about you do something to make me happy.


    I might also make you three dishes and one soup.¡±


    Pfft!


    Wu Yi suddenly felt the urge to vomit blood!


    Doubtfully staring at Gu Xiaoxi, what on earth had she done to make Old Hu look at her differently, and it was clear that the other cooks had a very good attitude towards Gu Xiaoxi as well.


    Ning Jiu coughed.


    Standing in front of the dining table, Gu Xiaoxi gave him a military salute, ¡°Company commander, there¡¯s quite a lot of food.


    I didn¡¯t expect our new recruit meals to be this good.


    Would you like to sit down and eat some?


    This wild rabbit meat was personally hunted by Squad Leader Hu and fried by his own hands, it smells amazing!¡±


    She emphasized the words ¡®by his own hands¡¯ with a particularly heavy intonation.


    Ning Jiu showed admiration with a thumbs up towards Gu Xiaoxi, disbelief in his eyes, ¡°Not bad, you missed the mealtime but still managed to get three dishes and a soup.


    Even I, your platoon leader, am convinced.


    Remember to go back early after eating and tidy up your barracks.¡±


    ¡°Reporting to the platoon leader, my barracks are already perfect.


    If you don¡¯t believe me, you can inspect it yourself,¡± Gu Xiaoxi chuckled, her black hair draping behind her ears, making her face appear especially fair.


    Ning Jiu patted Wu Yi¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Let¡¯s go!


    To inspect the barracks!¡±


    Wu Yi glared at Gu Xiaoxi, feeling one hundred and twenty percent unconvinced, every time he thought about their first meeting and that bucket of cold water, the anger inside him blazed furiously.


    Gu Xiaoxi, watching their retreating figures, turned her head and gave Hu Yidao a shallow smile, ¡°Thank you, Squad Leader, I¡¯ll start eating now.¡±


    Hu Yidao took out a lighter and ignited the precious cigarette in his hand, nodding towards Gu Xiaoxi with appreciation in his gaze, ¡°Go ahead!


    Eat and sleep early.


    Today¡¯s been the most comfortable day for the new recruits.


    Tomorrow, the good days are coming.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi ladled rice into her bowl, her eyes brimming with joyous laughter, ¡°But for me, today, after being hungry all day, is my hard day.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!


    You really are a special girl, even your way of thinking is different,¡± Hu Yidao said through puffs of smoke, enjoying himself.


    After Gu Xiaoxi finished eating, Hu Yidao placed a wad of banknotes in front of her, ¡°Here, take it.


    If you don¡¯t, I¡¯ll be breaking military rules.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi chuckled and put the money back in Hu Yidao¡¯s hands, ¡°If you really want to give it, I can¡¯t refuse.


    You should keep it, and use it to treat everyone to a dish of braised pork one night after a week.


    That sounds good, right?¡±


    Her original intent had been simply to get a meal, and as for the cigarettes, they were worthless to her.


    Since he had a reason to give her money, she didn¡¯t want to refuse.


    Contributing the money to a special meal for everyone was the least she could do!


    Hu Yidao, holding the banknotes, reached out and ruffled Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s black hair.


    It was impossible not to like this girl.


    With delicate features, bright eyes, white teeth, clean and pure looking, not greedy, not arrogant or impatient, she had an air of pride in her bones, was articulate, good at dealing with people, smooth yet not excessive, and knew just how to strike the right balance.


    ¡°If you¡¯re hungry again, come find me.


    Off you go!¡±


    However, Gu Xiaoxi put her hands in her pockets and gave him a cheeky grin, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, next time I definitely won¡¯t miss mealtime.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi strode towards the exit of the dining room.


    Zhang Yi followed her with a bottle of gum, ¡°Hold on, take this!


    Chew it after meals, it¡¯s good for your teeth!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi accepted the item, gave everyone a salute, and then left satisfied with a full belly.


    Today was the day she made connections with the cooking squad.


    With Old Hu around, there¡¯s no fear of going hungry anymore.


    On the large training field, each row and squad had already started assembling one after another, and the new recruits were gathering under the moonlight, with some squads already starting to teach military songs.


    Everyone was filled with curious anticipation for this new environment.


    The military, from ancient times to the present, has always been a place for men to build and accomplish great deeds.


    If you¡¯re a dragon, sooner or later you will soar to the heavens.


    And as for women¡ªwell!


    Now that there is gender equality, as long as you have the strength, one day you will stand proud among men.


    Gu Xiaoxi tossed two pieces of chewing gum into the air and deftly caught them in her mouth, her movements suave and brimming with rascally charm, drawing looks from the men nearby.


    Walking on the military training ground, she felt a surge of passion welling up from within.


    Here, she would rise and gain the strength that would compel that man to look at her squarely.


    ¡ªHer father.


    She would make him regret throwing her away.


    Gu Xiaoxi took out her smartphone and flipped through the photos.


    One was snapped from a financial weekly magazine.


    It featured a distinguished middle-aged man.


    There were a few similarities between his appearance and Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s, especially the look in his eyes.


    They both had a pair of eyes as vast as the starry sky, carrying a depth and contempt unique to those in high positions.


    Gu Xiaoxi pursed her lips and exited the photo gallery on her phone.


    She flipped to the messages and discovered a friend request concerning ¡®soaring to the sky¡¯.


    She was silent for a moment before clicking to accept the friend.


    Almost instantly, a response came from the other side.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, you finally remembered me!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi raised an eyebrow and replied, ¡°?


    ¡°I am Yi Chentian.


    I thought you had forgotten me,¡± Yi Chentian, clutching his phone, was so excited he felt like taking flight.


    Ever since Gu Xiaoxi left, he had been waiting for a reply to his friend request.


    After finishing his daily training, he would always hold his phone, constantly waiting for her response.


    ¡°Do you need something from me?¡± Gu Xiaoxi couldn¡¯t understand why someone she¡¯d only met once was so enthusiastic.


    ¡°Where are you?


    I have time tomorrow; I¡¯ll come and see you!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother, I just arrived at the military base today.


    Training starts tomorrow.


    We¡¯re not even close!¡±


    ¡°...¡± Yi Chentian¡¯s heart shattered in an instant.


    From her words, he sensitively caught one word, rookie!


    Gu Xiaoxi closed the messaging app.


    She opened her contacts, found Quan Shaoqing¡¯s name, stared at it for a long while, and eventually slid the smartphone back into her pocket.


    He had been tricking her all the way here; she should be angry and ignore him for a week.


    Just as she put her phone back, a message alert sounded; it was really from Quan Shaoqing.


    ¡°How¡¯s your first day reporting in?


    Are you getting on okay?¡± Quan Shaoqing sent the message and waited for a reply.


    However, after ten minutes, there was no sound from the other side.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, get along well with your comrades!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at the message and decisively blacked out her screen again.


    This guy was even more nagging than her mom, starting his chatter with her right away.


    ¡°Listen to the instructor obediently!¡±


    When the third message from Quan Shaoqing came through, Gu Xiaoxi couldn¡¯t stand it any longer.


    She was just about to reply with ¡°annoying¡± when someone suddenly stood in front of her, and before she had time to put her phone away, it was snatched away from her.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, from now on, all smartphones will be confiscated.


    New recruits can get them back after three months,¡± Yuan Shang stood before her, his tone serious.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked on forlornly as another message pinged on her phone.


    ¡°Can I take one last look at the message?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± Yuan Shang¡¯s tone was authoritative, ¡°Now go to the training field and assemble.¡±

 Chapter 37 - 37 007 The New Recruits Slightly Abnormal Life 1

    ?37: 007 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 1 37: 007 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 1 The life of a new soldier wasn¡¯t as hard as Gu Xiaoxi had imagined because the training tasks that were difficult for others were a piece of cake for her.


    She unsurprisingly excelled in each assessment item that followed.


    Within just a week, she had already become the most famous top scorer in various subjects among the new recruits.


    From formation training to physical conditioning, five-kilometer morning runs, push-ups, military boxing, and Grasping Technique, everything was within her easy grasp.


    Yuan Shang treated her like a treasure; with Gu Xiaoxi, the average level of the third platoon of the third company directly surpassed even the so-called top class of the second platoon of the second company.


    Zhang Jingyue led the other female soldiers in having a hundred and twenty grievances against Gu Xiaoxi, but since they weren¡¯t training together, they couldn¡¯t do anything about her.


    However, the instructors and the male soldiers would always compare Zhang Jingyue and Gu Xiaoxi.


    In the end, a military journalist posted the results of the ¡°Most Beautiful Military Flower¡± voting contest online.


    After seven days, the outcome surprised everyone.


    On the military website of Department Z, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s photo had turned into a piglet adorned with little flowers, while Zhang Jingyue posted her most beautiful fitness photo.


    Nevertheless, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s piglet photo was still far ahead in the lead.


    Today, after a week of intense training, everyone was exhausted.


    The instructor was unusually merciful and allowed everyone to have a meal break and rest for a day.


    Gu Xiaoxi lay on her bed to rest with her eyes closed.


    For her, such days were simply a waste of time.


    Training with a bunch of new recruits with poor physical abilities was a breeze for her.


    Even with a weighted vest on, she still easily left a group of female soldiers far behind.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, look.


    Your votes have actually surpassed ten thousand?


    And with a little pig as the picture, who did this?¡±


    Mei Su and Qin Chu were the first good friends Gu Xiaoxi made in the army.


    As opposed to the reticent Qin Chu, Mei Su was much more enthusiastic and outgoing.


    ¡°Boring!


    Get some rest!


    You never know, we might have to gather for emergency training tonight, and then you can forget about sleeping.¡± Gu Xiaoxi spoke with ease, lying there without even batting an eyelid.


    She had no intention of participating in any beauty contest voting; it was those idle journalists who wanted to add some fun to the army life and insisted on posting her photo.


    What a proper photo turned into once uploaded was a beautiful piglet with flowers.


    She was speechless about the photo and didn¡¯t need to guess who was behind this mischief.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, don¡¯t sleep!


    Did you hear that Shao Changfeng came looking for you yesterday?


    Tell me, did he confess his love to you?¡± Mei Su scooted over to Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s bed with a face full of gossip.


    Gu Xiaoxi would have stayed calm if it weren¡¯t for Mei Su¡¯s words, but at the mention, she immediately sat up in bed.


    Her bright eyes blazed with anger, ¡°Tell me, where did this gossip come from?¡±


    ¡°Where did it come from?¡± Mei Su looked toward Qin Chu, who had been reading a book, rubbed her head in confusion, and said, ¡°I don¡¯t know!


    I hear everyone around talking about it.


    It seems like the instructors are talking about it too!¡±


    At that moment, the room¡¯s door was suddenly flung open with force.


    Yan Xiao stood at the door with eyes blazing, glaring at Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, I¡¯m warning you.


    Stay away from him.


    He¡¯s my fiance?.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s cool gaze met Yan Xiao, ¡°Your fiance??


    Then please keep him in check.


    He and I have nothing to do with each other.¡±


    Yan Xiao¡¯s cheeks flushed red with anger.


    She didn¡¯t believe it; the whole new recruit company was spreading rumors that Shao Changfeng liked Gu Xiaoxi.


    Yan Xiao was a rich second-generation, her father being a businessman with a lot of money.


    While Shao Changfeng¡¯s family, although not extremely wealthy, also valued education sincerely.


    Yan Xiao, with her aggressive wealth, had liked Shao Changfeng for a while but had not gained her family¡¯s approval.


    After Shao Changfeng joined the army, she also enlisted following her graduation, travelling thousands of miles to pursue him.


    Yet, to her dismay, there were already rumors of Gu Xiaoxi and Shao Changfeng being involved on her second day in the army.


    How could she not be furious?


    Gu Xiaoxi clutched her forehead in frustration.


    What in the world had Shao Changfeng done to stir up such a headache-inducing rumor?


    Gu Xiaoxi flipped out of bed and waved at Mei Su and Qin Chu behind her.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!


    It¡¯s boring here.


    Let¡¯s take a walk outside.¡±


    Yan Xiao stamped her feet in fury, feeling utterly ignored by Gu Xiaoxi.


    If it weren¡¯t for the fact that she couldn¡¯t beat even a single finger of hers, she would definitely make Gu Xiaoxi pay.


    Gu Xiaoxi walked the training ground with Mei Su and Qin Chu.


    Compared to her, the training was too easy.


    But for the pampered new recruits, each one of them was groaning and too exhausted, having already gone off to bed.


    Mei Su stretched her arms, looking at the profile silhouette of Gu Xiaoxi, whose half face hidden in the darkness, carried a faint chill.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, you freak, how come you don¡¯t feel anything at all?


    My arms and legs are killing me.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you ask Qin Chu?


    She might have an answer for you,¡± Gu Xiaoxi looked up, her gaze falling on the basketball court not far away.


    The evening breeze brushed by, bringing with it a coolness.


    On the basketball court, about a dozen instructors were forming teams to play basketball.


    And there, she spotted Shao Changfeng right away.


    She just couldn¡¯t understand why Shao Changfeng had to pick on her.


    She couldn¡¯t recall having offended him in any way.


    Every time he saw her, his eyes were filled with hostility.


    How did others misinterpret that as adoration?


    ¡°You don¡¯t exercise enough, Mei Su!¡± Qin Chu replied to Mei Su in a rare good mood.


    Mei Su was instantly so infuriated she felt like spitting blood, ¡°I¡¯m a fourth dan in Taekwondo.


    I¡¯ve also learned Judo and Karate.


    Is it nice to bully me like that?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s your own incompetence!¡± Qin Chu¡¯s icy words hit, and Mei Su nearly passed out with frustration.


    ¡°I¡¯m not playing with you anymore.


    I¡¯m going to do some extra training!¡±


    With that, Mei Su turned and ran towards the training ground.


    Gu Xiaoxi and Qin Chu exchanged glances and shook their heads in silence.


    They continued walking towards the basketball court.


    The instructors playing basketball spotted them.


    Ning Jiu was the first to stop, looked over, and frowned at Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°What, not tired?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi grinned at him, showing her teeth, ¡°Not tired!¡±


    With her response, the remaining instructors furrowed their brows, questioning whether the intensity of their training had been sufficient.


    But on closer reflection, where was it insufficient?


    Ninety percent of people had been peeled like onions these past seven days, with plenty fainting and suffering from excessive physical exertion during training.


    Because Gu Xiaoxi looked so relaxed, the higher-ups had revised the training plan to be even more rigorous than before for new recruits.


    And here she was, barely feeling a thing, while it made the others miserably exhausted.


    At this moment, nearly everyone in the entire dormitory building was asleep, except for Gu Xiaoxi and a few others with extraordinary physical strength who still had the energy to stroll around.


    Ning Jiu checked the time and saw it wasn¡¯t yet lights-out.


    He simply let her wander.


    No helping it, after all, her nickname was ¡°little freak,¡± plus she was one of his own soldiers and had brought him pride and face.


    He was happy to watch.


    ¡°Instructor!


    I¡¯m just going to take a walk,¡± Gu Xiaoxi remembered Old Hu, whom she hadn¡¯t seen in many days, and she genuinely missed the delicious food from the mess hall.


    Just as she turned around, a basketball flew over Ning Jiu¡¯s head, aiming straight for Gu Xiaoxi.


    The thrower had used a lot of strength, and the ball kicked up a strong gust of wind in its wake.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, dodge!¡± Ning Jiu was startled.


    If that ball hit her, it would definitely cause an injury!

 Chapter 38 - 38 008 The New Soldier Life of Little Pervert 2

    ?38: 008 The New Soldier Life of Little Pervert 2 38: 008 The New Soldier Life of Little Pervert 2 For a moment, everyone was startled, holding their breath, forgetting what to do next!


    Just when Ning Jiu thought that Gu Xiaoxi would be hit hard by a basketball,


    the girl who had been facing away from everyone suddenly jumped up, performed a beautiful somersault kick, kicking the ball with an inverse hooking motion.


    That aloof silhouette, like a chivalrous character from a wuxia novel, executed an arrogant kick, carrying a wildly captivating counterattack force.


    The basketball was kicked back, following the trajectory it had come from, charging towards the person who had thrown it.


    The person did not expect Gu Xiaoxi to do that and was too late to dodge.


    The basketball smashed hard into their stomach, sending them flying backward, landing clumsily on the concrete ground.


    ¡°Ah!


    It hurts!¡± Zhang Jingyue clutched her stomach, feeling as if all her internal organs were shattered, the pain twisting her face and instantly turning her lips ghastly pale.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s movement was smooth and connected, like a flying swallow, she somersaulted and stood firm, as steady as Mount Tai.


    She dusted off her hands, glancing back at Zhang Jingyue, who was lying on the ground, with dark, indifferent eyes and a calm expression.


    On one side, seven or eight instructors were still stunned, not having recovered from Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s impressive counterattack movement with the inverse hooking kick.


    Qin Chu¡¯s mouth twitched, a little freak is a little freak.


    With those skills, who would dare to be presumptuous in front of her!


    Zhang Jingyue had taken a silent defeat; she never would have thought that not only would Gu Xiaoxi catch the ball, but she would also return it with a ¡®gift¡¯ several times more fierce!


    ¡°Zhang Jingyue, how did your ball fly over here?


    I didn¡¯t mean to hit it so hard.


    Are you okay?¡± Gu Xiaoxi said, hands in pockets, her chin held high with an innocent look on her face.


    It seemed as if she was saying that the counterattack wasn¡¯t intentional.


    But everyone knew she had done it deliberately!


    Otherwise, who could kick a basketball back so precisely along its original trajectory?


    That would be too much of a coincidence!


    Two girls helped Zhang Jingyue stand up, and hearing Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s words, they immediately became furious and irate, saying, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, you did that on purpose!¡±


    ¡°On purpose?¡± Gu Xiaoxi scoffed disdainfully, her lips curving into a beautiful arc, ¡°I saw a ball flying towards me and instinctively kicked it away in fright.


    Sorry, I didn¡¯t know you were the one who threw it!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s tone was cold, her voice laced with disdain.


    Although it sounded like an explanation, it clearly came across as provocation to the other party¡¯s ears.


    Not only did she lack any attitude of regret or reflection, but her eyes also showed contempt.


    ¡°Both of you shut up!¡± Zhang Jingyue, enduring the pain, stopped the two girls beside her.


    At this time, Zhang Jingyue¡¯s platoon leader, Lu Xian, finally reacted, and he became infuriated.


    Pointing at Gu Xiaoxi, he bellowed, ¡°How could you be so ruthless to a comrade?


    Where is your military quality, Gu Xiaoxi?¡±


    Before Gu Xiaoxi could speak, Ning Jiu suddenly threw the ball in his hands, looking at Lu Xian fiercely, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t that question be asked to your Zhang Jingyue?


    She threw the basketball at Gu Xiaoxi first; couldn¡¯t she hit back?


    You should be asking where your Zhang Jingyue¡¯s military discipline went.


    Attacking from behind, that¡¯s what¡¯s truly shameful.


    She doesn¡¯t deserve to wear that military uniform!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi stood there, her gaze falling on Ning Jiu, whose face was ashen and normally cheerful face now clouded with anger.


    She hadn¡¯t expected Ning Jiu to stand up for her at this moment and confront the platoon leader of the second platoon.


    On the basketball court, it was only a moment, but the atmosphere among the instructors turned tense and hostile.


    Lu Xian trembled with anger, glared at Gu Xiaoxi, turned to gaze at the pale-faced Zhang Jingyue, and barked viciously, ¡°Why did you suddenly throw the basketball at Gu Xiaoxi?¡±


    He clenched his fists, his expression one of utter disappointment and frustration.


    Zhang Jingyue gritted her teeth, her fingers cracking as she grasped tightly.


    She glared at Gu Xiaoxi, eyes filled with resentment, and said to Lu Xian, ¡°Report!


    I heard she¡¯s good at catching.


    I wanted to test her!¡±


    ¡°And then what?


    Do you have any idea of the consequences of your actions?


    You¡¯ve completely disgraced our Second Platoon!¡± Lu Xian, hands on his hips and lips turning blue with fury, wished he could turn back time so that the incident had never occurred.


    It was too shameful, a direct hit to his own reputation.


    The soldiers he had trained, the ones he took pride in, had done something like this, and right in front of him, no less.


    ¡°Report!


    I¡¯m sorry!¡± Zhang Jingyue bowed her head, enduring the pain in her stomach, on the verge of tears.


    She was already a strikingly beautiful woman, and this sudden show of vulnerability tugged at the heartstrings of the tough men around her.


    Lu Xian was about to speak, intending to send Zhang Jingyue to the infirmary to get treated and to punish her the next day.


    But Gu Xiaoxi stepped forward, walked up to Ning Jiu and said, ¡°Report, Platoon Leader, I¡¯m sorry.


    I wasn¡¯t paying attention.


    I accidentally hit Zhang Jingyue.


    I am willing to accept the punishment.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi was under Ning Jiu¡¯s command, and his protection of her was as natural as Lu Xian¡¯s instinctive protection of Zhang Jingyue.


    Caught off guard by Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s words, Ning Jiu didn¡¯t react at first, but after a moment, he grasped her intent, glanced at Lu Xian, then said to Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Since you realize your mistake and are willing to correct it, your punishment will be to carry a weight of twenty kilograms and run ten kilometers.


    You can sleep only after completing the run!¡±


    Such a punishment!


    Gu Xiaoxi lifted her chin defiantly, her gaze provocatively settling on Lu Xian and Zhang Jingyue.


    It was clear that Lu Xian had wanted to shield Zhang Jingyue, even when she was in the wrong.


    Gu Xiaoxi, having made the error passively, was instead actively requesting punishment!


    Thus, Zhang Jingyue, the one who had actively erred, would inevitably not escape today¡¯s plight.


    That was just how Gu Xiaoxi operated, blatantly setting Zhang Jingyue up and leaving everyone present without any grounds to object.


    If someone dared to shoot her in the back, she would ensure they tasted what it was like to be on the receiving end.


    Lu Xian stared at Ning Jiu, so angry his face could drip blackness.


    He glared at Gu Xiaoxi through gritted teeth and then turned to Zhang Jingyue, ¡°Carry a weight of twenty kilograms and run twenty kilometers.


    Start now, and you can sleep after you¡¯ve finished!¡±


    This punishment was deliberately doubled compared to Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s, to demonstrate the instructor¡¯s fairness and impartiality.


    Gu Xiaoxi snorted coldly; ten kilometers was nothing more than a leisurely walk for her.


    But for Zhang Jingyue, twenty kilometers could strip her raw.


    What¡¯s more, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s recent ¡®return gift¡¯ was definitely enough to make her suffer.


    Gu Xiaoxi smiled coldly; a drop of water in need shall be returned with a spring in deed.


    Give her an inch, and she¡¯ll return a yard.


    Her motto, applicable to everyone.

 Chapter 39 - 39 009 The New Recruits Slightly Abnormal Life 3

    ?39: 009 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 3 39: 009 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 3 At night, on the rugged mountain path, Gu Xiaoxi carried her pack and did a ten-kilometer weighted run, with Qin Chu and Mei Su following behind her.


    ¡°I mean, you two, why do it together?


    Aren¡¯t you tired?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi glanced sideways at the two women, maintaining a good pace as she ran.


    She was about halfway through, and she wasn¡¯t even out of breath.


    Feeling utterly drained, Mei Su¡¯s backpack seemed to grow heavier by the minute.


    Gasping for air, she struggled to speak clearly.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, what¡¯s the matter with you?


    Running for so long without even blushing or breaking a sweat?¡±


    Qin Chu¡¯s physical fitness was among the best of the new recruits.


    Even though she kept a stable pace, she was slightly panting.


    ¡°How far can you run in an hour at your fastest?¡± Qin Chu asked.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never calculated!¡± Gu Xiaoxi looked into the night, her eyes sparkling.


    She remembered her childhood when she had a master named Lu Xi, a world-renowned race car driver, and she was only ten years old at the time.


    Before she met Lu Xi, she was a naughty troublemaker who did everything she wasn¡¯t supposed to.


    Since Gu Lirou was often not at home, she found studying pointless and frequently skipped classes to go karting with her classmates.


    Then she met Lu Xi and saw him driving a race car.


    She loved it so much that she wanted to learn.


    Back then, Lu Xi set two conditions for her, her academic grades had to reach the top ten in her grade within three months, and she had to run ten kilometers in half an hour.


    So she started waking up at six every morning to run around the city before heading to school.


    She became a good student for three months, climbing from the very bottom of her class to topping her grade, earning the legitimate first place.


    Consequently, her teacher suspected her of cheating, and she had to take the exam again with a fresh set of papers.


    Since then, she developed the habit of studying and running.


    Later, in high school, it took an hour by car to get to school from where she lived, but she would run there.


    ¡°Qin Chu, stop asking her.


    She¡¯s a freak, no one can compare to her!¡± Mei Su complained, out of breath.


    ¡°Then why did you come to the military camp?


    With your ability, you didn¡¯t need to come here at all!¡± Qin Chu turned to look at Gu Xiaoxi, her forehead covered in sweat.


    Capable, talented, and brave, the outside world seemed more suitable for her to thrive in.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s mouth twitched, annoyance clear on her face even in the dark night.


    Her lips moved as if to speak, but in the end, she remained silent.


    Thinking of Quan Shaoqing, her fighting spirit surged within her.


    If she couldn¡¯t beat or outrun him, she had no choice but to obediently listen to him.


    But one day, she vowed to surpass him and beat him over and over again.


    ¡°Hurry up, finish the run and go back to sleep,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said, wiping the sweat off her forehead, pushing thoughts of Quan Shaoqing from her mind.


    Qin Chu closed her mouth and asked no more.


    Mei Su gritted her teeth and persevered, continuing to run.


    It was apparent that she too was a very strong-willed girl.


    In the forest at night, Zhang Jingyue was also accompanied by someone running a short distance behind Gu Xiaoxi.


    The two groups jogged at a leisurely pace; the wind rustled the leaves with a ¡®shasha¡¯ sound, making the night feel a little less lonely.


    At Headquarters of Division Z.


    Lin Mi was reporting the condition of the new recruits to Quan Shaoqing.


    ¡°Superior officer, the training for the new recruits has reached maximum intensity.


    But clearly, this is nothing for Gu Xiaoxi.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing looked out into the night and sighed.


    A week flew by just like that, and that girl hadn¡¯t responded to a single message.


    He was well aware that the training was too simple for her.


    His purpose in sending her to the army was not to train her physically, but to instill in her the spirit and will of a soldier, to enhance her teamwork skills.


    The military is not an individual, so she can¡¯t charge around recklessly and do whatever she pleases.


    ¡°Arrange it for tomorrow, we¡¯ll go take a look at the new recruit company,¡± Quan Shaoqing said.


    Lin Mi paused, ¡°Superior officer, that might not be a good idea!


    Your presence might scare the cadres over there.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing raised an eyebrow, putting down the document in his hand, ¡°I am just going to observe their training, not cause them trouble.


    There is no need to be overly anxious.¡±


    Lin Mi wiped the sweat from his brow!


    To him, it was just a casual observation, but for those below, it was a sensation.


    He had visited the new recruit company before, just a year ago.


    The scene was more spectacular than sending the entire battalion to the battlefield.


    Forget it, better to arrange a secret visit, Lin Mi thought to himself, speechless.


    ¡°Another thing, superior officer.


    Our undercover agent has sent a message, there will be a human trafficking incident along the Southern Border Country borderline in three days.


    I¡¯ve already arranged for the sniper battalion to launch a rescue operation.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing pondered for a moment and saw this as an opportunity.


    ¡°Bring Gu Xiaoxi along when the time comes.


    Let her see firsthand what war really is.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Lin Mi acknowledged the order.


    Gu Xiaoxi, Qin Chu, and Mei Su were still running their ten kilometers when they encountered wolves in the depths of the forest.


    A large grey wolf over a meter long raised its head high with a pair of glowing green eyes flickering like ghost fire, bearing its long, sharp fangs at the trio.


    Mei Su was so scared that her legs went weak, almost hiding behind Gu Xiaoxi as she clutched her sleeve.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, I always heard there were wolves out here but never believed it.


    Now we¡¯ve actually run into one, what do we do?¡±


    Qin Chu was already prepared for combat, ¡°Scaredy-cat, it¡¯s just a wolf!¡±


    No sooner had Qin Chu spoken than behind the large grey wolf, a group of five or six large wolves raised their heads and proudly stepped out of the bushes.


    Qin Chu felt her throat tighten and a touch of nervousness showed on her face.


    Gu Xiaoxi, on the other hand, stared at the lead Wolf King, her expression unreadable, her dark eyes flickering.


    Gu Xiaoxi recognized that wolf, recalling the days she fled through the forest.


    She had encountered a wolf cub, which became fixated on her.


    But as she ran too fast, the cub pursued and accidentally fell to its death from a slope.


    Just as the wolf father spotted this, the Wolf King and his brothers chased her for several hours.


    Talking about it, she still felt it was a huge misunderstanding.


    This way, she inadvertently became the target of several wolves.


    Their attitude suggested they wouldn¡¯t rest until she paid for the wolf cub¡¯s life.


    So many days had passed, and now they had even chased her down here.

 Chapter 40 - 40 010 The New Recruits Slightly Abnormal Life 4

    ?40: 010 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 4 40: 010 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 4 ¡°Xiao Xi, what should we do?


    Should we run for it?¡± Qin Chu swallowed, her heart thumping wildly.


    ¡°Seven wolves?


    The three of us wouldn¡¯t even be enough to fill the gaps between their teeth.¡±


    Mei Su¡¯s legs were trembling, ¡°I can¡¯t run anymore.


    My legs are numb.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi clenched her fists and commanded Mei Su and Qin Chu, ¡°You two, climb a tree.¡±


    ¡°Ah!


    What about you?¡± Qin Chu turned and swept a glance behind her, indeed spotting a large tree not far away.


    ¡°You go first, these wolves are here for me,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said.


    Leading the wolves away by herself was enough.


    But if a battle ensued, she wasn¡¯t worried about herself, she feared Qin Chu and Mei Su would get hurt.


    After all, wolves are ferocious by nature and won¡¯t show mercy just because you¡¯re good-looking.


    ¡°Hurry!


    Otherwise, they¡¯ll pounce on us, and I won¡¯t be able to act,¡± Gu Xiaoxi urged Qin Chu.


    Qin Chu felt uncertain, her skills were decent, but she had never been in real combat, much less with ferocious wolves.


    Yet Gu Xiaoxi seemed to have everything under control.


    Did she have a secret technique?


    Initially, she wanted to stay and help, but seeing Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s ¡®you staying would only trouble me¡¯ expression, she decisively took Mei Su and climbed up the nearby tree.


    Once Gu Xiaoxi saw that the two were safe, she turned back to meet the gaze of the lead Wolf King.


    She remembered the technique Quan Shaoqing had used in front of her before, a compelling look, a stunning gaze that alone could instantly rob someone of their combat spirit.


    She had done research and discovered that in ancient legends abroad, this was also a form of martial arts, called Overbearing.


    It involved focusing one¡¯s mental strength in the eyes to instill fear and trembling in the adversary with a look, thereby shattering the opponent¡¯s will, achieving a kind of mental assault.


    The gray wolf let out a whimper, and behind it, the other five or six wolves, each with bristled fur, were ready to attack.


    Gu Xiaoxi stood with arms crossed, her back straight, her delicate features casting a cold shadow in the moonlight.


    Her eyes were pitch black, like a black hole devouring everything, with a glimmer of silver flickering in her pupils.


    Suddenly, that silver light rapidly expanded, and an overwhelming oppressive force burst forth from her.


    In that moment, she was like a Queen with magic power, her eyes piercing through time and all existence.


    Sovereign majesty erupted from her, spreading outward.


    The seven wolves¡¯ green eyes constricted, ¡°A-woo¡± they sounded, their legs gave out, and they collapsed onto the ground.


    Gu Xiaoxi took a deep breath, relieved.


    She had just imitated Quan Shaoqing¡¯s actions and searched for some techniques¡ªshe didn¡¯t expect her first attempt to be so effective.


    Gu Xiaoxi was not yet finished being pleased when she heard Qin Chu shout from behind, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, watch out for the tree branch above your head!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi felt a chill down her spine, and she instinctively backed away, but it was already too late.


    It was only when she looked up that she saw a Leopard lunging at her from the trunk of a tree above her.


    ¡°Holy shit!


    Why are there so many fierce animals here?


    Is this a case of the mantis stalking the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind?¡± Gu Xiaoxi inwardly lamented, knowing it was too late to flee.


    When she tried to use Overbearing again, she couldn¡¯t muster it; there was no time to prepare, and in her panic, she couldn¡¯t meet the conditions for using Overbearing.


    It seemed she, who was only half-trained, still needed a lot more real combat experience.


    Thus, she had no choice but to engage the Leopard in close combat.


    Just as she was preparing to fight back, a nimble figure burst out from the bushes beside her, a sharp dagger in hand, glinting coldly in the moonlight.


    Blood splattered three feet, and the pungent smell of blood dispersed into the air.


    The Leopard lay on the ground, blood gushing from its neck, its body twitching, on the brink of death.


    A twitch crossed Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eye as she saw the man standing next to the Leopard.


    Underneath his buzz cut, the man¡¯s features were striking, his eyes sharp as if chiseled, and in the burst of action, he looked every bit as wild as a lion.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, don¡¯t you know how to call for help when you¡¯re in danger?


    Don¡¯t overestimate yourself, rookie!¡± Shao Changfeng, holding the blood-stained dagger, suddenly fixed his gaze on Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi brought her hand to her forehead, still recovering from the shock.


    This man was indeed capable, having undergone intense training at Flame.


    Just now, his speed was so fast that she hadn¡¯t been able to see at all how he had struck.


    ¡°Hey, what are you doing here?


    Are you stalking me?¡± Gu Xiaoxi eyed Shao Changfeng up and down, seeing nothing to suggest he was a stalker.


    Shao Changfeng snorted coldly, ¡°Stalk you?


    I¡¯m here to protect them!¡±


    He pointed not far away, where Zhang Jingyue was standing with a rucksack, her face pale, looking at them.


    Behind her were another platoon leader and two accompanying young women.


    Gu Xiaoxi coughed and swept a glance at Shao Changfeng, ¡°Thanks for saving me just now.¡±


    Afterward, she motioned to Qin Chu and Mei Su, who were behind them, ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±


    However, just as her words fell, Mei Su¡¯s voice rang out again, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, watch out for the wolf behind you!¡±


    Good lord, petrified as a group!


    The wolves that had been scared stiff by Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s Overbearing now stood up one by one, adopting an even hungrier posture as they pounced at her.


    Because she was facing away, she hadn¡¯t noticed them approaching.


    Gu Xiaoxi turned around just in time to see the Wolf King springing at her.


    She didn¡¯t even have time to react, gripping the dagger in her hand, ready to strike a fatal blow even if she were to get hurt.


    But unexpectedly, before she could strike, she was hit by a burst of masculine energy.


    Her entire body was knocked to the ground by a solid chest, hitting the back of her head on the ground painfully, causing her to grit her teeth in agony.


    By the time Gu Xiaoxi realized what had happened, Shao Changfeng had already engaged the seven wolves in combat.


    He had tackled her to the ground, saving her once again?


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t have time to think further; she sprang to her feet and joined the fray with the pack of wolves.


    In just four exchanges, all seven wolves were lying on the ground, with the sickening stench of blood permeating the air.


    When it was all over, Gu Xiaoxi shot Shao Changfeng a sidelong glance.


    She had found that ever since she¡¯d met this guy, things had never gone smoothly.


    Initially, these wolves didn¡¯t have to die, but now they were all dead.

 Chapter 41 - 41 011 The New Recruits Slightly Abnormal Life 5

    ?41: 011 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 5 41: 011 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 5 Gu Xiaoxi wiped the bloodstains from her face with her sleeve.


    At that moment, as dusk settled in, she stared at Shao Changfeng, and Shao Changfeng glared back at her.


    Their dark eyes locked, sparks seemed to grow within them.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Gu Xiaoxi snapped out of it and turned to Mei Su and Qin Chu.


    Then, without looking back, she walked forward.


    Shao Changfeng¡¯s face darkened, and he followed.


    ¡°I just saved you, don¡¯t you think you should say thank you?¡±


    ¡°If you were in danger just now, I would have saved you too.


    It¡¯s what comrades do,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said indifferently, taking Qin Chu and Mei Su with her as they ran forward.


    Shao Changfeng had all his words stuck in his throat, not knowing what to say in the moment.


    He was ordered to protect Gu Xiaoxi and the other two, simply wanting to see her abilities from the shadows.


    He hadn¡¯t expected to uncover her strength.


    After running another four or five kilometers, Shao Changfeng was still following Gu Xiaoxi.


    Seeing that Mei Su was nearing exhaustion, Gu Xiaoxi slowed down and walked alongside Shao Changfeng.


    ¡°Who asked you to follow me?¡± Gu Xiaoxi looked back at him, her forehead slick with sweat.


    ¡°Company commander!


    This forest connects to the primeval mountains, and although safety nets have been installed, they can¡¯t completely isolate the animals from the mountains.


    They might penetrate the camp¡¯s barrier through the trees or by burrowing from underground, so it¡¯s not as safe here as you might think.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi nodded; in those days when she was escaping through the forest, she indeed encountered many animals.


    After a moment of silence, she tilted her head to Shao Changfeng and said, ¡°You can¡¯t blame me for what happened with Flame.


    You should stop challenging me in the future.


    Misunderstandings could arise, and that¡¯s not good.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Shao Changfeng didn¡¯t understand what Gu Xiaoxi meant.


    ¡°You really don¡¯t know?¡± Gu Xiaoxi caught her breath and stopped, waiting for Mei Su and Qin Chu who lagged behind.


    ¡°Make it clear to Yan Xiao that I have nothing to do with you!


    Otherwise, she¡¯s going to see me as a love rival every day.¡±


    Shao Changfeng scanned Gu Xiaoxi from head to toe, ¡°You mean, those rumors?¡±


    ¡°I thought you were unaware!


    Turns out you knew!


    You¡¯d better clarify with everyone.


    This is bad for my reputation!¡± Gu Xiaoxi plucked a blade of grass and chewed on it, her demeanor brash and nonchalant.


    Staring at her, Shao Changfeng¡¯s gaze flickered between light and dark, and he chuckled coldly, ¡°Rest assured!


    Yan Xiao is not my fiance?e.


    Nothing¡¯s possible between her and me.¡±


    ¡°Well, I shouldn¡¯t be caught in the crossfire!


    Shao Changfeng, although what happened last time led to the disbandment of Flame, and I¡¯m sorry for that, you can¡¯t set me up like this.¡± Gu Xiaoxi felt this man was truly beyond reasoning.


    ¡°How did I set you up?


    I never confessed to you, nor did I tell anyone I liked you.


    All these rumors are nonsense, they have nothing to do with me,¡± Shao Changfeng stared at his military boots, took a few steps forward, and left Gu Xiaoxi with a cold silhouette.


    Damn!


    ¡°You...


    Zhong Ming seems much more honest than you.¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s mouth twitched fiercely.


    He was tacitly confirming the rumor that ¡®he liked her.¡¯ Was it just to reject Yan Xiao?


    ¡°That¡¯s why he is Flame¡¯s captain!¡± Shao Changfeng said coolly.


    Gu Xiaoxi: ¡°...¡±


    She was left speechless!


    ¡°If you¡¯re using me, you have to give me something in return.


    I never make a losing deal,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said to Mei Su who was catching up, then stood up and walked forward.


    Shao Changfeng followed her, and the group continued, with people trailing and chasing behind each other.


    Whenever Mei Su fell behind, Gu Xiaoxi would stop to wait for them.


    ¡°What kind of reward do you want!¡± Shao Changfeng asked.


    ¡°That dagger you used just now is not bad.


    Give it to me.¡±


    ¡°No way!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi pouted, if he wouldn¡¯t give it, then be it.


    Suddenly, she thought of something, Zhang Jingyue was always the platoon leader following them, so why didn¡¯t Ning Jiu come, and instead him?


    ¡°Where¡¯s my platoon leader?


    Why did they send you?¡±


    Shao Changfeng turned his head and glanced at her, the corners of his mouth curling into a wicked smile, ¡°Oh!


    They¡¯re guessing that I like you.


    Give me a chance to pursue you.¡±


    ¡°Pff!¡± Gu Xiaoxi nearly choked to death.


    This bastard, aside from scheming and hatred, she hadn¡¯t seen a hint of affection in his eyes.


    His words sent chills down her spine.


    ¡°You can refuse!


    This isn¡¯t something you should be doing!¡± Gu Xiaoxi was furious, taking on Ning Jiu¡¯s task, and this guy had some nerve planning something else.


    ¡°I¡¯d be very willing to ¡®serve¡¯ you!¡± Shao Changfeng said with a firm tone.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked up at the sky, wondering if it was about to rain red.


    ...


    Mei Su and Qin Chu jogged slowly behind, contemplating the two people walking ahead on the road with puzzlement.


    ¡°Qin...


    Qin Chu!


    Do you think...


    Shao Changfeng really likes Gu Xiaoxi?¡± Mei Su, struggling with her breath, found it difficult to articulate her words.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t seem like it to me.


    When you like someone, it shows in the eyes,¡± Qin Chu said, inhaling sharply and speaking coolly.


    ¡°Pssh!


    As if you can tell by the eyes!


    Keep boasting!


    Have you ever been in love?¡± Mei Su pondered and then continued, ¡°With your silent demeanor, does any man actually like you?¡±


    Qin Chu pursed her lips and quickened her pace, ¡°Are you discriminating against me?¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare!


    Qin Chu, don¡¯t run too fast.¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t speed up, you¡¯ll be waiting to get eaten by wolves again; at this late hour, there will be more wild beasts.¡±


    ...


    After completing the full ten-kilometer course, Mei Su and Qin Chu collapsed on the training field.


    Gu Xiaoxi tossed down her bag and sat beside them, resting together.


    Shao Changfeng looked at the three of them, ¡°I¡¯ve completed my task.


    Get some rest early!¡±


    Watching his retreating figure, Gu Xiaoxi sneered!


    She¡¯d make him pay for using her sooner or later.


    ¡°You guys rest here.


    I¡¯m going to the cooking squad.


    I¡¯m starving.¡± Gu Xiaoxi patted off the dust on her clothes and strode towards the cooking squad.


    The duty officer was Zhang Yi, who immediately greeted her upon seeing Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°You¡¯re here for something to eat?¡±


    ¡°Nobody gets me like Brother Zhang.


    I just ran ten kilometers and I¡¯m starving!¡± Gu Xiaoxi flashed a sweet smile, bewitching enough to make one lose their soul.


    Even in a military uniform, her exquisite beauty and unique charm couldn¡¯t be concealed.


    Zhang Yi couldn¡¯t help but blush,¡± Wait here, I knew you went running.


    I have prepared steamed buns and pickles for you.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Brother Zhang!¡±


    ¡°For that ¡®Brother Zhang,¡¯ I¡¯ll prepare supper for you every night from now on.¡± Zhang Yi turned and went into the kitchen.


    Gu Xiaoxi followed, ¡°Where¡¯s Old Hu?


    Why hasn¡¯t he been here these past few days?¡±


    At this point, Zhang Yi¡¯s expression darkened and he explained, ¡°Old Hu is a veteran cadre; he¡¯s spent his life in the army and never got married.


    His mother is all he has back home, and she¡¯s sick now.


    He took a month¡¯s leave to care for her.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t ask any more questions, took the food, and went back to the training field where the three of them wolfed down their food and then slept.


    As for Zhang Jingyue!


    From Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s observations, that person was definitely not easy to mess with.


    Punished to run twenty kilometers, she could still swallow her anger without causing any trouble along the way.


    Zhang Jingyue¡¯s endurance and forbearance were astonishing, and such an opponent was not to be underestimated in a head-to-head confrontation.


    Just, she didn¡¯t know.


    On the road ahead, this woman would become her greatest rival.


    The next day, early in the morning, training was in full swing.


    A black luxury military car drove into the new recruits camp, and a soldier alighted first, opening the car door.

 Chapter 42 - 42 012 The New Recruits Slightly Abnormal Life 6

    ?42: 012 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 6 42: 012 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 6 A black military vehicle entered the new recruits camp, and a soldier got out first to open the car door.


    The man wore large sunglasses that hid most of his face, dressed in green military uniform, with a height of one meter ninety, imposing and formidable.


    Under the green military cap, half of his well-defined face was visible, exuding a wicked and cold charm.


    Lin Mi followed Quan Shaoqing, with another person accompanying them.


    A third-rank major general, wearing shoulder boards, respectfully followed behind.


    Quan Shaoqing and Lin Mi did not wear badges, making it impossible to discern their identities.


    ¡°Gao Xiong, go ahead!


    This time we are here for an unofficial visit to check on the new recruits, and among the three of us, you¡¯re the highest-ranking!¡± Lin Mi stretched out his hand and patted Gao Xiong¡¯s shoulder.


    Gao Xiong gave an awkward smile and sneakily glanced at Quan Shaoqing.


    Seeing the superior officer nod, he straightened his expression, ¡°Then I¡¯ll lead the way.


    Superior officer, I apologize for the inconvenience.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!


    Don¡¯t let anyone see through us.¡±


    Gao Xiong had already sent documents ahead of time stating that he would inspect the new recruit training site to observe the recruits¡¯ daily life and training.


    Over there, the regimental commander of Area 98, the camp commander of the new recruits camp, and cadre from various regiments and companies had all arrived.


    A third-rank major general is a significant rank; in Area 98, a regimental commander is just a second-rank lieutenant colonel.


    Except for the instructors who were busy with the training on the field, everyone was rushing to greet this third-rank major general sent from above.


    Gao Xiong¡¯s heart trembled with nerves; being welcomed by so many should have been a pleasant affair.


    Yet, he felt like he was walking on thin ice.


    The regimental and camp commanders were his subordinates, and the meetings were not unfamiliar, but due to the circumstances, everyone behaved very cautiously.


    At Gao Xiong¡¯s request, the regimental commander took them to observe the new recruit training.


    On the training ground, physical training was underway as usual.


    Intense exercises such as push-ups and pull-ups on the horizontal bar.


    Quan Shaoqing swept his gaze across the field; there were indeed quite a few people.


    ...He couldn¡¯t see Gu Xiaoxi!


    His unit usually had around five hundred new recruits per batch.


    They were then assigned to different companies for further training, based on their performance, before being distributed to various stationed forces; other military branches also selected from among these recruits.


    Z Division had its own naval, land, and air forces, constituting a complete military base, and Quan Shaoqing was the highest commander.


    For Gu Xiaoxi to surpass him was almost impossible.


    ¡°Are there any standout recruits in this batch?¡± asked Gao Xiong to the regimental commander.


    The regimental commander looked back at the deputy commander Hu Ba.


    Hu Ba saluted Gao Xiong and said, ¡°Yes, please follow us, commander.¡±


    *


    Meanwhile, Yuan Shang was leading the female trainees of the ninth squad in their pull-up training on the horizontal bar.


    At ten in the morning, the sun was quite strong; their cheeks were flushed red from the heat, and their foreheads glistened with sweat.


    This kind of training was incredibly challenging for the female recruits, almost harder than hanging.


    Gu Xiaoxi completed two hundred reps in ten minutes, instantly outshining all the female soldiers in the platoon.


    As a result, Yuan Shang asked her to help train the others.


    Gu Xiaoxi was surreptitiously chewing gum, competently directing the female soldiers of the ninth squad, a group of physically weak princesses, each hanging on the bar like cured meat.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, what did you do before?


    You¡¯re really impressive,¡± Yuan Shang couldn¡¯t figure out.


    That delicate little body had an extraordinary burst of power, which even he found somewhat unattainable.


    Completing two hundred pull-ups in ten minutes, and she wasn¡¯t even out of breath or her heart racing, which even he would find challenging to accomplish.


    Gu Xiaoxi chuckled, ¡°I didn¡¯t do much, just getting tortured every day by some freaks.


    I had to become strong to avoid being bullied.¡±


    As a child, whenever Gu Lirou was not at home, she¡¯d always find someone to be her professional ¡°nanny¡± each year.


    When she was ten, she met Lu Xi and tried various ways to please him, eventually learning how to race cars.


    A year passed.


    When she turned eleven, she encountered Liu Yishou.


    The guy was a grandmaster from a martial arts family and an utter martial arts fanatic, with nimble qinggong skills that let him fly over walls and defeat anyone in the world, but she wasn¡¯t interested.


    However, Liu Yishou took a particular interest in her, proclaiming that her natural aptitude was exceptionally suitable for martial arts training.


    To take her as his disciple, he tried every trick in the book to please her, including cooking her delicious meals.


    Then one day, he suddenly stopped cooking for her and even threatened her, saying she¡¯d only get to eat if she became his disciple.


    That really trapped her, a food lover.


    She reluctantly learned some inner strength and qinggong.


    For her, having profound martial arts skills added some basic training items to her morning routine.


    Her time was limited, so she only practiced each type of training for five minutes a day, but she persisted every morning.


    Over time, for her, it became as simple as eating and drinking.


    ¡°What does your family do?¡± Yuan Shang got curious.


    In modern society, whose child would be ¡®tortured¡¯ like this every day, compelled to be strong and independent?


    ¡°My mom was in the antique business.


    But she died in a car accident,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said, lowering her eyelashes as the wind lifted her ink-black hair, hiding the expression on her profile.


    Yuan Shang looked away, not looking at Gu Xiaoxi anymore.


    He knew he had asked a bit too much.


    Undoubtedly, Gu Xiaoxi was the instructor¡¯s favorite, and because of her strength, she enjoyed relative freedom on the training field.


    Qin Chu did a hundred pull-ups, sweating profusely from his forehead.


    He looked at Gu Xiaoxi and asked, ¡°Why don¡¯t you show us your limit!¡±


    ¡°My limit?


    I don¡¯t want to expose my strength too soon,¡± Gu Xiaoxi smiled.


    Her goals were lofty, and physical fitness was just the most basic requirement for her.


    She still remembered the lessons Liu Yishou taught her, though she hadn¡¯t mastered them as a child, and now she could reinforce them and make herself even stronger.


    ¡°What do you want then?¡± Qin Chu asked.


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t answer.


    However, her future was already planned out.


    *


    The national flag fluttered in the wind, and the soldiers sweated profusely as they trained rigorously.


    Hu Ba led Young Master Quan and others to observe the training of the male soldiers, followed by the females.


    ¡°This batch has two vanguard soldiers whose physical abilities can compete with the male soldiers¡¯ vanguards,¡± Hu Ba said.


    He pointed at Zhang Jingyue, who was doing push-ups on the training field, ¡°Last night, she ran twenty kilometers with a twenty-kilogram weight, and this morning she¡¯s still able to continue training, doing twenty push-ups in a minute at the fastest.


    Her limit is three hundred!¡±


    Young Master Quan stood behind Gao Xiong, removing his glasses to take a look at Zhang Jingyue, and nodded in approval.


    It was rare to see a new recruit with such physical capabilities, especially a female.


    Zhang Jingyue felt an oppressive gaze and looked up to see a man standing not far away with his hands behind his back.


    His towering figure dressed in a military uniform looked both noble and steely.


    His gaze was indifferent, resting on her and making her feel a kind of suffocating tremble.


    He seemed godlike, so high above that in an instant, she felt reduced to dust beneath his feet.


    That was the aura of a soldier that emanated from the bones, like a War God, unattainably awe-inspiring.


    She recognized him!


    At the state banquet a year ago, her father had taken her to the evening event, where she had encountered this man.


    Accidentally stepping on his foot with her high heels, she had apologized, and he simply said it didn¡¯t matter.


    One conversation, unforgettable to this day!


    Unexpectedly, she had enlisted in the army and so soon, she saw him again.


    From a distance, Hu Ba waved to Zhang Jingyue¡¯s platoon leader.


    The platoon leader ran over, and soon returned to call for Zhang Jingyue, ¡°Zhang Jingyue, the leader wants to see you.


    Perform well!¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Zhang Jingyue immediately stood up and gave a military salute, feeling somewhat light-headed.


    She didn¡¯t know whether Young Master Quan still remembered her or not.

 Chapter 43 - 43 013 The New Recruits Slightly Abnormal Life 7

    ?43: 013 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 7 43: 013 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 7 ¡°Yes!¡± Zhang Jingyue immediately stood up and performed a military salute.


    She felt somewhat unsteady, unsure whether Quan Shaoqing still remembered her.


    Zhang Jingyue trotted over and saluted everyone.


    Gao Xiong sized up Zhang Jingyue and encouraged her, ¡°Work hard, everybody is rooting for you.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Zhang Jingyue responded loudly, with a strong and resonant voice.


    Her clear and beautiful voice made the men feel as if their ears had turned to jelly.


    Young Master Quan looked at her, finding her familiar.


    It was as if he had seen her somewhere before, but he couldn¡¯t recall at the moment.


    Upon hearing from Zhang Jingyue that she came from a military family, was a postgraduate with dual degrees, and her grandfather was a high-ranking official, Gao Xiong¡¯s tone became much more polite, ¡°Perform well!


    Off you go!


    Our military needs talent like yours.


    You¡¯ll definitely be entrusted with important tasks in the future.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Zhang Jingyue¡¯s gaze swept toward Young Master Quan, noticing that he was also looking at her.


    She suddenly lowered her head, her ears turning slightly red.


    Lin Mi touched his nose, his glance shifting back and forth between the two, having understood the situation.


    Zhang Jingyue had been completely charmed by Young Master Quan¡¯s magnetism.


    Dark eyes of Young Master Quan roved over to the training field, searching for Gu Xiaoxi, when suddenly his gaze landed near the parallel bars.


    There sat Gu Xiaoxi, cross-legged on the grass, casually chewing gum.


    She was definitely chewing gum sneakily, taking a few chews whenever the instructor turned away.


    Whenever the instructor wasn¡¯t looking, she continued to act cool and detached on her own.


    Young Master Quan scowled; this girl was treating the new recruit training as a joke.


    He had heard it from Lin Mi before but hadn¡¯t believed it; now, seeing it with his own eyes was hardly bearable.


    There she was, chewing gum on the training field.


    Just ten seconds after Young Master Quan¡¯s gaze had shifted toward her, Gu Xiaoxi, feeling alert, turned around.


    Through a row of verdant fir trees outside the training field, her eyes met directly with Quan Shaoqing¡¯s.


    The next second, Gu Xiaoxi scrambled to her feet and ran towards Yuan Shang, ¡°Reporting!


    I need to go to the restroom!¡±


    Yuan Shang looked at Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Didn¡¯t you just go?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi chuckled, ¡°I ate too much this morning!¡±


    Speechless, Yuan Shang said, ¡°Go then!¡±


    He pointed towards a group nearby and instructed Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Leaders are inspecting up there, make it quick.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi saluted, flashed a brilliant smile, and then ran off like a breeze.


    She was clearly going for a pee break.


    Watching Gu Xiaoxi head towards the restroom, Young Master Quan and Lin Mi exchanged glances, the former¡¯s eye twitching.


    Was this girl deliberately avoiding him?


    Gu Xiaoxi dawdled in the bathroom for half an hour, watching from the restroom window as Young Master Quan and the others moved across the training field.


    Only then did she whistle cheerfully, sauntering out of the hallway.


    Little did she know, as soon as she exited the hallway, she ran smack into the group that had just crossed the training field.


    Gu Xiaoxi felt utterly frustrated inside; unable to avoid them, she decided to pretend she didn¡¯t recognize them.


    She stood up straight, puffed out her chest, pulled in her stomach, and saluted, ¡°Greetings, officer!¡±


    Gao Xiong raised an eyebrow, and Hu Ba hurriedly explained, ¡°This is our squad¡¯s vanguard.


    The one who just went to the restroom.


    Gu Xiaoxi!¡±


    Gao Xiong nodded.


    He then asked Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Do you have any special skills?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi grinned innocently, ¡°I run fast!¡±


    ¡°What else?¡± Gao Xiong inquired.


    ¡°Lots!


    Which area are you referring to?¡± Gu Xiaoxi replied earnestly.


    Gao Xiong took an interest and bombarded her with a plethora of questions.


    The result was like an unabating tai chi.


    His questions were effortlessly dodged by Gu Xiaoxi, resulting in her abilities becoming even more enigmatic.


    ¡°Put on a good show!¡± Gao Xiong said with an inscrutable smile.


    Gu Xiaoxi saluted everyone and ran faster than a rabbit.


    She didn¡¯t glance at Quan Shaoqing from beginning to end.


    Lin Mi looked at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s grim expression, her heart drumming with anxiety, not understanding what he was feeling.


    The one who should be looking at him didn¡¯t give him a single look.


    The one who shouldn¡¯t be kept stealing glances at him.


    Hu Ba led the leaders to the restroom.


    After coming out of the restroom, Quan Shaoqing and Lin Mi summoned Hu Ba, ¡°Now that I¡¯m here, I want to test the strength of the new recruits.


    Gather all the top new soldiers together; I want to see their limits.¡±


    He wanted to review personally?


    Gao Xiong immediately agreed with Quan Shaoqing¡¯s suggestion and, under Lin Mi¡¯s cue, entrusted the matter to Quan Shaoqing.


    Quan Shaoqing squinted his eyes, watching Gu Xiaoxi on the training ground.


    This guy had made their relationship crystal clear.


    Lin Mi was speechless, sweating for Gu Xiaoxi.


    Pretend not to know him?


    Gu Xiaoxi, you¡¯re impressive!


    At least glance at Quan Shaoqing to hint at your good relationship.


    You should know, Quan Shaoqing came here especially for her.


    Among the new recruits, numbering over five hundred, nearly thirty vanguards stood out after just over a week of training.


    To Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s surprise, among these vanguards, she also encountered Song Jingyi.


    She might not have been the best, but she was one of those new recruits with strong physical abilities, so her class recommended her to make an appearance.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, we meet again!¡± Song Jingyi stood beside Gu Xiaoxi with a grin, ¡°The most beautiful new recruit!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi glanced at her, ¡°Are you mocking me?¡±


    ¡°Well, if even a pig could become the most beautiful, who is playing this joke?¡± Song Jingyi teased.


    Gu Xiaoxi snorted and stayed silent.


    Seeing her cold face, Song Jingyi secretly handed her a few pieces of chewing gum.


    ¡°Here, don¡¯t be so stingy.


    We could still be friends in the future!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi flipped the chewing gum and tossed it into her mouth.


    Right now, Hu Ba was gathering people, so no one was paying attention to them.


    ¡°Hey, I heard the highest-ranking leader who came today is a major general!


    But why do I think that the man next to him, without any rank insignia, is even more handsome?¡± Song Jingyi recalled carefully.


    Gu Xiaoxi chewed on her gum, looking disdainful, ¡°Handsome?


    I don¡¯t think so!¡±


    The mere thought of that face made her itch to smack it, to surpass him, to torment him a hundred times a day.


    ¡°Something about what you said doesn¡¯t sit right with me!¡± Song Jingyi chuckled covertly.


    ¡°I remember, during that arrest, someone twisted their ankle, yet was begging to be held!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s face darkened, not speaking anymore; Song Jingyi was referring to the time they caught Mu Yong.


    ¡°Dare to blab to others, and see how I¡¯ll deal with you!¡± Gu Xiaoxi said coldly, calmly continuing to chew her gum.


    She wanted to surpass Quan Shaoqing on her own strength and naturally did not want to expose their relationship.


    Otherwise, all her efforts would be overshadowed by Quan Shaoqing¡¯s influence.


    Song Jingyi giggled, ¡°Good luck!


    He looks like trouble is coming!¡±


    Following Song Jingyi¡¯s gaze, Quan Shaoqing and Lin Mi were walking out of the office building.


    With a severe expression and a cold attitude, Quan Shaoqing approached the new recruits.


    Thirty people stood in front of him, each brimming with energy and vigor.


    His eyes briefly passed over Gu Xiaoxi, his voice resounding, ¡°At ease, everyone!


    I¡¯ve heard you¡¯re the sharpest among the new recruits, so today, show me your real skills.


    Prove that you can, that you¡¯re worthy of wearing this military uniform.¡±

 Chapter 44 - 44 014 The New Recruits Slightly Abnormal Life 8

    ?44: 014 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 8 44: 014 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 8 Under the scorching sun, Quan Shaoqing personally tested this group of newcomers, adorned with the aura of vanguard soldiers.


    From frog jumps to fancy push-ups, to pull-ups on the horizontal bar, and sit-ups.


    Because they had already trained all morning, they were still training during lunch, and everyone was still hungry.


    After three hours of intense physical training, it was already two in the afternoon, with the weather growing even hotter, and sweat had long since soaked through everyone¡¯s uniforms.


    But the training was not yet over.


    Under such relentless training, the final event was actually a 20-kilogram, 20-kilometer weighted cross-country run.


    The route was designated by superiors, traversing mountains and thickets, crossing streams and valleys.


    The first three to reach the destination would receive an invitation from the major general to eat beef hotpot.


    Due to having only eaten breakfast and undergoing intense training until the afternoon, even a group of vanguard soldiers couldn¡¯t bear it.


    In the meantime, half of the thirty had already been eliminated.


    Among the remaining ten, surprisingly, there were three female soldiers.


    Gu Xiaoxi, Song Jingyi, Zhang Jingyue, and seven male soldiers.


    The physical endurance of the three female soldiers was a match for the male soldiers, and there were still three of them!


    This truly broadened the superiors¡¯ horizons.


    Especially Song Jingyi, the dark horse, really amazed everyone.


    A 20-kilometer weighted run.


    Gu Xiaoxi took a breath, too lazy to wipe the waterfall-like sweat from her face.


    She glanced at Zhang Jingyue and looked at Song Jingyi, ¡°Hey, who would¡¯ve thought!


    You¡¯ve really kept your light under a bushel!¡±


    Song Jingyi chuckled, her face showing fatigue but her eyes incredibly resolute, ¡°Though I can¡¯t compare to you, I have more than enough to crush those scumbags.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi gave a thumbs-up, ¡°Let¡¯s go!


    20 kilometers, win and we¡¯ll have beef hotpot.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi felt her cravings stirring in her stomach; it had been a long time since she had eaten food that suited her palate.


    Zhang Jingyue snorted coldly, not saying a word.


    No one knew what she was thinking.


    At Quan Shaoqing¡¯s command, the ten of them shouldered their packs and entered the woods.


    The most routine, most monotonous overload training, on the contrary, was the best at drawing out a person¡¯s potential.


    The sun blazed down fiercely as Lin Mi brought water to Quan Shaoqing, ¡°The physical fitness of this batch of recruits is not bad.


    With further training, we can find some prospects for next year¡¯s special forces selection.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, not bad!¡± Quan Shaoqing drank some water, looking at the ten people who had started running and instructed, ¡°Arrange for people to follow the whole way, and rescue immediately if there¡¯s any situation.¡±


    The training just now was already overloading for the recruits; hunger combined with the high temperature, their bodies were only holding on by sheer will.


    If they could all insist on running the full 20 kilometers, they could already be considered as the strong.


    ¡°It¡¯s all set up!¡± Lin Mi said with a grin.


    ¡°Come on!


    You should eat too.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing and Lin Mi headed to the dining hall together.


    Lin Mi looked up at the blazing sun, ¡°By the way, do you think Miss Gu can finish first?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing narrowed his eyes, patting his shoulder, ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate the potential of a foodie.


    She will definitely come in first.¡±


    Lin Mi raised his thumb, ¡°You¡¯ve really played a deep game here!¡± Just to have a legitimate reason to take Gu Xiaoxi away, he was making a joke of all the new soldiers.


    ¡°Nonsense.


    Right now, she doesn¡¯t know me.


    I don¡¯t know her.


    All are treated equally.


    Tomorrow¡¯s live combat observation, I¡¯m only taking the first place,¡± Quan Shaoqing said earnestly.


    Lin Mi shrugged.


    ¡°In the end, it¡¯s all for her, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    They¡¯re all convinced she¡¯ll take first place!


    Everything else is irrelevant!


    *


    On the cross-country trail, Gu Xiaoxi kept running at a steady pace, her breathing still even.


    It was only hunger that left her feeling a bit lackluster and listless.


    Song Jingyi was gasping for air, barely able to keep up with Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Go ahead without me, Gu Xiaoxi!


    I can¡¯t run anymore.


    As much as I want to eat the beef hotpot...


    this is too much of a pitfall.


    Twenty kilometers, we¡¯ve only run five, by the time we finish it¡¯ll be dark.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at the sky.


    Normally, twenty kilometers were just an hour¡¯s journey for her.


    Now, hungry and without energy, she figured it might take an hour and a half.


    ¡°Song Jingyi, you¡¯ve always been such a wimp.¡±


    ¡°Who are you calling a wimp?¡± retorted Song Jingyi, her temper flaring up like a cat that got its back up.


    Zhang Jingyue was ahead of Gu Xiaoxi, running with all her might.


    Hearing their conversation, she smirked coldly and quickened her pace.


    Ning Jiu and Shao Changfeng were followers in this team, as Shao Changfeng was Song Jingyi¡¯s platoon leader.


    Since Song Jingyi and Gu Xiaoxi were lagging behind together, they ended up trailing at the back as well.


    ¡°Hey, you two, perform well and don¡¯t embarrass me.


    The Major General¡¯s treating us to a meal.


    It¡¯s such a rare opportunity, we¡¯ve never had the chance to gain such exposure.


    Neither of you is allowed to give up,¡± Shao Changfeng glared at Song Jingyi and berated her.


    Gu Xiaoxi glanced at Song Jingyi, then looked at Ning Jiu and promised confidently, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll definitely get you first place.¡±


    So, she shouldered her pack and picked up the pace.


    Ning Jiu¡¯s baby face was all simple smiles as he said, ¡°Okay then, Gu Xiaoxi, go for it.


    I¡¯ll be with you all the way.¡±


    Song Jingyi gritted her teeth and, under Shao Changfeng¡¯s icy stare, mustered the courage to chase after Gu Xiaoxi.


    It¡¯s true that human potential needs to be stimulated.


    Under Shao Changfeng¡¯s stern direction, Song Jingyi kept up with Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s pace.


    Gu Xiaoxi, timing herself and managing her speed, not only didn¡¯t leave Song Jingyi behind but also continued to encourage her, tapping into her potential.


    According to the designated route, by a small creek, Gu Xiaoxi and Song Jingyi caught up with the main group up ahead.


    There were four male soldiers ahead of them and Zhang Jingyue, who had been in front of them all along.


    ¡°I can¡¯t do this.


    I can¡¯t run anymore.¡± Song Jingyi collapsed onto the riverbank in defeat.


    ¡°Song Jingyi, conquer yourself.


    Gaining recognition from the superiors is the honor of a soldier.


    Hang in there for me,¡± Shao Changfeng almost lost his temper with her.


    No matter how tired, giving up was not an option; that¡¯s a basic quality of a soldier.


    How had he trained them all this time, for them to forget such principles?


    Gu Xiaoxi wiped the sweat from her forehead, scooped up two handfuls of water from the stream to wash her face, and immediately felt much better.


    She turned to look at Song Jingyi, then smiled at Shao Changfeng, ¡°Don¡¯t push her so hard!


    Let her rest.


    With the way she is now, she thinks she can surpass me?


    I could beat ten Song Jingyis in a minute.¡±


    Her words instantly riled up Song Jingyi, her body trembling with anger, her chest heaving.


    Forgetting her exhaustion, she stood up and entered the creek before Gu Xiaoxi, moving toward the opposite bank.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, you sharp-tongued witch.


    I definitely won¡¯t lose to you.


    Dream on about beating me by a factor of ten!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi shrugged, speechless.


    The reverse psychology really did work on her.


    When she looked up, she saw Zhang Jingyue had reached the other side of the creek.


    She gave Gu Xiaoxi a cold smirk, turned, and ran off without a word.


    It was a silent declaration of war, her expression seeming to say she was determined to take first place.


    Gu Xiaoxi calculated that there was still ten kilometers to the destination.


    Zhang Jingyue might have appeared calm on the surface, but she was at her limit as well, her legs trembling even as she walked, not much better off than Song Jingyi.


    The last part of the trek was a test of endurance.


    If Song Jingyi¡¯s endurance was strong enough, she could still win.


    As for the male soldiers, four had decent physical strength and were jogging ahead of Zhang Jingyue.


    But with ten kilometers still to go, nothing was certain.

 Chapter 45 - 45 015 The New Recruits Slightly Abnormal Life 9

    ?45: 015 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 9 45: 015 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 9 If Gu Xiaoxi hadn¡¯t waited for Song Jingyi, she would have easily taken first place.


    Ning Jiu was anxious.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, hurry up!


    This is an individual competition; it doesn¡¯t require team coordination, nor are there teammates.


    You need to give it your all and take first place.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the rush?¡± Gu Xiaoxi said with a light smile.


    ¡°Just now, on the road, I made a bet with Song Jingyi.


    If she can make it into the top three with me, she¡¯ll have exclusive rights to all my chewing gum.¡±


    Ning Jiu was speechless.


    ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to chew gum during training.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi chuckled.


    ¡°I¡¯ll chew it when I¡¯m sleeping!¡±


    Ning Jiu covered his face and quietly squatted in the corner.


    He was truly convinced!


    Taking first place with Song Jingyi was Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s goal!


    Thus, a group of people, all pushing their endurance, began a tug-of-war.


    Ning Jiu was really sweating it for Song Jingyi!


    Two hours later, as the sun gradually set, painting the earth a crimson hue, at the finish line, Quan Shaoqing sat watching his watch the whole time.


    He frowned, his voice cool, ¡°According to her slowest speed of thirty kilometers in an hour and a half, even crawling like ants, she should have arrived by now!¡±


    ¡°Superior officer, there¡¯s someone coming up ahead.


    Look!¡± Lin Mi immediately handed over the binoculars to Quan Shaoqing.


    Quan Shaoqing took them and saw that the woman at the front, carrying her rucksack, was clearly not Gu Xiaoxi.


    He looked and looked, and confirmed it again and again.


    Finally, his expression darkened, ¡°What is that girl up to now?¡±


    Lin Mi thought for a moment, took the communicator, and asked the platoon leader to report the situation.


    When Ning Jiu made the report, his voice was somewhat stiff, ¡°Report.


    Gu Xiaoxi has twisted her ankle.


    She¡¯ll reach the finish line soon.¡±


    Sure enough, as soon as Ning Jiu¡¯s words ended, Quan Shaoqing¡¯s binoculars saw Gu Xiaoxi, limping towards them, using a tree branch for support.


    Song Jingyi was assisting her, already so exhausted she could barely breathe.


    Next to them were two male soldiers, also persisting in moving forward.


    At this moment, they couldn¡¯t even lift their feet, let alone run.


    However, the atmosphere among these four people was filled with tension.


    Just earlier, Gu Xiaoxi had been assisting Song Jingyi, and everyone¡¯s pace had been similar, neck and neck.


    As she supported Song Jingyi and kept running, a male soldier sitting by the side of the road suddenly stretched out his leg.


    While it didn¡¯t cause Gu Xiaoxi to fall, it did catch her off guard, causing her to twist her ankle.


    Afterward, the male soldier sincerely apologized, claiming it wasn¡¯t intentional.


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t say much, just gave the man a cold glance.


    Afterwards, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s ankle swelled on the spot, but she still insisted on completing the race with her load.


    However, the injury worsened, and later she had to find a tree branch to prop herself up to barely make it this far.


    The male soldier, Chen Xuan, was very nervous.


    He had heard that Gu Xiaoxi was quite cocky and thought she would retaliate or beat him up, as she certainly had the ability and skills to do so.


    But she didn¡¯t.


    She acted as if nothing had happened, not even sparing him a glance.


    Seeing that Zhang Jingyue was about to rush to the finish line, he felt that his mission was accomplished.


    For his Goddess to take first place, he had resorted to unfair tactics.


    He felt sorry for Gu Xiaoxi.


    Now, with Gu Xiaoxi and Song Jingyi falling behind, as long as he made a successful sprint, he could take second place.


    Suddenly feeling a chill down his spine, Chen Xuan looked back and met Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eyes head-on.


    The former¡¯s heart skipped a beat, feeling guilty as if he had done something wrong, and turned his head away.


    Then he heard Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s voice, ¡°Chen Xuan, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m sorry!¡± Chen Xuan quickly apologized, seeming very sincere on the surface.


    ¡°Sorry?¡± Gu Xiaoxi sneered, ¡°We¡¯ll talk after the training ends.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes fiercely, her aura instantly becoming extremely dangerous.


    Since Zhang Jingyue wanted first place so badly, she was determined not to let her have it.


    Because first place had always been hers.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, what do we do, we¡¯re going to be left behind.¡± Song Jingyi saw that they had persisted to the end only to be overtaken by others and cursed Chen Xuan in her heart a thousand times over.


    Gu Xiaoxi steadied herself and pushed away Song Jingyi¡¯s helping hand, ¡°Starting now, you run to the finish line with all your might.


    Let me tell you, if you don¡¯t make it into the top three, don¡¯t even acknowledge knowing me if you see me later.¡±


    Damn!


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, what do you think you¡¯re doing at a time like this?¡± Song Jingyi felt the rucksack on her back was heavier than a mountain.


    Gu Xiaoxi smiled coldly, ¡°I want first place!


    Song Jingyi, we don¡¯t have much time.


    Remember what I said.¡±


    Song Jingyi looked at Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s stern face, her black eyes shining like the moon, resolute.


    Those determined eyes, without a doubt, were like those of a supreme ruler, majestic and overbearing without anger.


    Her usual jocular and mischievous demeanor was gone, replaced by an awe-inspiring authority that made people want to bow down in submission.


    With gritted teeth, Song Jingyi ran desperately forward, disregarding Gu Xiaoxi.


    Her words were so serious; if she didn¡¯t make the top three, they wouldn¡¯t even be friends anymore.


    Even though Gu Xiaoxi had always been somewhat sarcastic towards her, Song Jingyi still wanted to be her friend.


    Perhaps it started when she gave a ten-million check to the orphanage.


    She felt that standing by her side was an honor, surpassing even the glory of a soldier.


    Ning Jiu covered his face with his hand, thinking it was over.


    Forget about first place, Gu Xiaoxi certainly wouldn¡¯t make it into the top three.


    Her ankle had swollen as thick as an arm; how could she run?


    She could hardly walk!


    Meanwhile, Shao Changfeng stared at Gu Xiaoxi, observing her intently.


    Gu Xiaoxi took off her rucksack, looked up in the direction of Quan Shaoqing, smiled slightly, twirled the pack in her hands, and when it began to whoosh loudly, she suddenly threw it with all her might.


    The forty-pound pack, driven by the force of the swing and inertia, traced an arc through the air, landing firmly at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s feet.

 Chapter 46 - 46 016 The New Recruits Slightly Abnormal Life 10

    ?46: 016 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 10 46: 016 The New Recruit¡¯s Slightly Abnormal Life 10 Gu Xiaoxi clapped her hands and saw that Song Jingyi was about to surpass Zhang Jingyue, a smile appeared on her lips, ¡°This woman, it seems that she can only improve through reverse psychology.¡±


    Just when everyone was worrying about Gu Xiaoxi, not knowing what trick she was playing.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s body suddenly sprang up, leaping onto a branch beside the road, and then she swiftly grabbed the branch with one hand, and like a monkey, used the spring of the branch to leap toward the finish line.


    In just the span of ten breaths, she had surpassed everyone and jumped down from the tree, heading towards where Young Master Quan was.


    She spread her arms and looked at Young Master Quan with a smile on her face.


    Quan Shaoqing very tacitly stretched out his hand and caught the girl falling from the tree, holding her in his arms.


    ¡°Ssssss!...¡±


    At that moment, the silence of the forest was only broken by the chirping of cicadas.


    Everyone was petrified on the spot, thinking their eyes were deceiving them.


    Especially Song Jingyi, who was the most shocked.


    The person who was far behind just a moment ago.


    She looked up and Gu Xiaoxi had reached the finish line.


    Especially since she had actually jumped right into Young Master Quan¡¯s arms...


    This...?


    Zhang Jingyue almost spat out blood.


    Frozen in place, her legs felt as heavy as lead, immobile.


    Zhang Jingyue¡¯s usually calm and graceful face changed.


    Gu Xiaoxi was bold enough to jump into an officer¡¯s arms!


    What surprised her was that Young Master Quan had even reached out to catch her.


    What made Zhang Jingyue want to vomit blood even more was that, while she was still in shock, another male soldier like a little cheetah had passed her, standing at the finish line.


    What was once a sure first place now wasn¡¯t even in the top three.


    Her lungs felt as though they were about to explode with anger.


    ¡°Hey, let me down!¡± Gu Xiaoxi quickly struggled and politely slid out of Young Master Quan¡¯s arms to stand on the ground.


    If it wasn¡¯t for the fear that falling to the ground might aggravate her injury, she wouldn¡¯t have jumped into his arms.


    Of course, she wouldn¡¯t reveal the truth, so naturally, no one would think it was intentional.


    Most people would assume she hadn¡¯t controlled her strength and had accidentally fallen, just so Young Master Quan could catch her.


    ¡°Is the foot injury serious?¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s gaze dropped to her ankle.


    ¡°Thank you for your concern, sir, I¡¯m fine!¡± Gu Xiaoxi waved at Song Jingyi, who immediately came forward to support her.


    ¡°Sir, Xiao Xi¡¯s injury is quite severe, she needs to be sent to the medical room now,¡± Song Jingyi said immediately.


    Quan Shaoqing looked up, glanced at the crowd that had arrived one after another, and said to Lin Mi, ¡°Notify Hu Ba, and have their reception team ready.


    I will take the first place to the medical room.¡±


    Lin Mi nodded and opened the car door.


    Quan Shaoqing got in first, followed closely by Gu Xiaoxi and Song Ziyi.


    *


    A group of people watched Gu Xiaoxi get into the leader¡¯s car, and it took a long while for everyone to come back to their senses.


    ¡°Did we just dream?


    Was that Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s true strength?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s so impressive; after running for so long, she still had the energy to bounce up.


    Using the elasticity of the branches, with just her hands, she avoided her injured foot!¡±


    ¡°Her luck is too good, isn¡¯t it!


    Falling from the tree and being caught by the commander just right!¡±


    ¡°And being personally taken to the medical room...¡±


    Everyone was catching their breaths, chatting sporadically.


    Only Ning Jiu and Shao Changfeng exchanged a glance.


    The former had a dumbfounded expression, seemingly still not recovered from Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s astonishing agility.


    Shao Changfeng patted Ning Jiu on the shoulder and said with profound meaning, ¡°I¡¯ve always told you, don¡¯t underestimate her.¡±


    Ning Jiu rubbed his head, a bit dazed, ¡°She really kept it under wraps!


    Totally fooled us.¡±


    Shao Changfeng shrugged his shoulders, his gaze deep, ¡°Her ace is definitely not just this.


    From now on, be more polite to her, okay?¡±


    Ning Jiu snapped into realization and grabbed Shao Changfeng¡¯s sleeve, pressing him with questions, ¡°You¡¯re saying, how can a little girl be so formidable?


    Also, have you noticed if the leaders above were a bit too enthusiastic today?¡±


    ¡°Not at all.


    Someone got hurt.


    Sending them to the medical room is a basic quality of a commander,¡± Shao Changfeng said earnestly.


    With Gu Xiaoxi gone, Zhang Jingyue sat there dumbfounded, her eyes wide with disbelief.


    She stared blankly as Quan Shaoqing¡¯s car drove away.


    That honor was supposed to be hers.


    Chen Xuan stepped forward, consoling her with regret, ¡°Don¡¯t lose heart; this was just a test by the superiors.


    We will have many chances in the future.


    As long as we have the strength, someday we will shine and catch their attention.¡±


    Zhang Jingyue glared at Chen Xuan furiously and raised her hand to strike his face hard.


    With angry eyes, she scolded, ¡°Who asked you to help me from behind?


    If I want to win against her, I want to surpass her in ability.


    Even if, I won today, you would make me feel ashamed.¡±


    Chen Xuan¡¯s face felt scorched with pain, and he was completely befuddled.


    He had tried to help her with good intentions, and not only did she not appreciate it, she slapped him?


    ¡°Zhang Jingyue, calm down a bit, if you match strength for strength, you definitely won¡¯t be able to win.¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Zhang Jingyue suddenly felt so angry that she blacked out and fainted.


    Gu Xiaoxi having an injured foot and still losing was already a heavy blow for her, and now Chen Xuan was confirming that she wasn¡¯t as good as Gu Xiaoxi.


    Chen Xuan and the instructors were startled, Zhang Jingyue had been fine just a moment ago, and suddenly she collapsed.


    ¡°Quick!


    Call an ambulance!¡±


    Suddenly, chaos erupted in the forest.


    *


    In Young Master Quan¡¯s car, the driver was a staff officer.


    Song Jingyi gave Quan Shaoqing a flattering smile, ¡°Sir, I¡¯ll leave Xiao Xi to you.


    Let me rest a bit first.¡±


    ¡°Rest,¡± Quan Shaoqing nodded.


    He took out some dried meat and water from the car and gave them to her.


    Song Jingyi accepted them with great gratitude and began to devour them hungrily.


    Gu Xiaoxi shot Song Jingyi a glance, that guy...


    She had been helping her with all her might just now, and now she was abandoning her, heartless and ungrateful...

 Chapter 47 - 47 017 Accident

    ?47: 017 Accident 47: 017 Accident Quan Shaoqing handed the water to Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Drink some!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t speak, took it, and took a sip, looking at him, ¡°I did okay, didn¡¯t I!¡±


    ¡°Not bad!¡± Quan Shaoqing raised her leg and noticed her ankle was badly swollen, ¡°What did you do to yourself?


    Aren¡¯t you pretty tough, how could you twist your ankle?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi wiped the sweat from her face, turned away, and said to the soldier driving in front, ¡°Buddy, it¡¯s still very hot.


    Turn down the air conditioning a bit.¡±


    The soldier immediately nodded.


    Song Jingyi was engrossed in eating, but when she suddenly heard Quan Shaoqing¡¯s question, she stopped, looked apologetic, and said, ¡°She was holding on to me.


    I wasn¡¯t paying attention.


    Who would¡¯ve thought that male soldier would suddenly stick out his foot?


    There was a big rock in front of me; if it weren¡¯t for her holding onto me, I would have been the one injured.


    Sorry!


    It¡¯s my fault!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi glared at her, ¡°Blabbermouth!¡±


    ¡°Was it done on purpose?¡± Quan Shaoqing looked up at Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t answer.


    His brows were deep, he reached into the car for the swelling-reducing medicine and started to repeatedly rub her raised foot.


    Even though it was a bit painful, Gu Xiaoxi endured it without a peep.


    Her somewhat stubborn gaze fell on the hand on her ankle and suddenly felt that those hands were very broad, very strong, very warm.


    ¡°Yeah!


    It was that Chen Xuan.


    We bear no grudge against him!


    Bullying our Xiao Xi...¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi grabbed a pack of tissues from inside the car and threw it at Song Jingyi¡¯s head, ¡°Even eating won¡¯t shut you up!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi looked towards Quan Shaoqing and snorted coldly, ¡°I can handle this kind of thing myself.


    How could I possibly be bullied by scum like that.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing gave her a glance, his gaze suspicious, ¡°Are you sure you can handle it?


    What if he bullies you again next time, what then?¡±


    Damn!


    Listening to this, Gu Xiaoxi felt her temper flare.


    Her face turned iron blue, and she emphasized to Quan Shaoqing, ¡°I¡¯ve only ever bullied others from when I was young; no one has ever dared to bully me.¡±


    Of course, Quan Shaoqing was an exception.


    Song Jingyi decisively shut her mouth!


    The little weirdo was getting angry...


    Honestly, it was all her fault.


    If it weren¡¯t for her lack of physical strength, Gu Xiaoxi wouldn¡¯t have been injured.


    What surprised Song Jingyi was that Quan Shaoqing didn¡¯t immediately take Gu Xiaoxi to the hospital but instead had her return to the military base, ¡°You go back first, the major general will invite you to dinner.


    Tell Gao Xiong for me, Gu Xiaoxi is hurt, somewhat seriously.


    I¡¯ll take her to the Headquarters Hospital to have a look.


    Also, remember to ask for three days leave on her behalf from the squad leader.¡±


    Song Jingyi immediately straightened up, puffed out her chest, sucked in her stomach, and gave a salute, ¡°Yes, sir!¡±


    Of course, she was a smart person and would definitely not talk irresponsibly.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s car drove away.


    Gu Xiaoxi moved her ankle, feeling much better.


    She didn¡¯t know what medicine he used; after rubbing it for half an hour, the swelling actually went down.


    ¡°Why are you asking for three days off for me?


    What about my beef hotpot?¡± Gu Xiaoxi asked, perplexed.


    Given her recovery progress, she could be jumping around by tomorrow morning.


    She still had her mind set on her delicacy.


    Quan Shaoqing lifted his beautiful eyelids, staring at Gu Xiaoxi speechlessly, ¡°There is a live drill the day after tomorrow.


    I¡¯m taking you to observe it.


    As for your hotpot, I¡¯ll take you to the largest Beef City in A City, alright!¡±


    Suddenly being so nice to her?


    Gu Xiaoxi retreated warily, leaning against the car door, her gaze filled with suspicion as she guarded against him, ¡°You¡¯re not planning some nasty scheme again, are you?


    I¡¯ve already been tricked enough by you.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s breath hitched, ¡°Do I look like the kind of person who is up to no good?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi nodded fiercely.


    Quan Shaoqing: ¡°...¡±


    He extended his hand in annoyance and patted Gu Xiaoxi on the shoulder.


    He wanted to say, was all of this for her own good?


    The car drove back to Quan Shaoqing¡¯s command center.


    At his private residence, the imposing ZO was parked downstairs.


    Quan Shaoqing looked at Gu Xiaoxi, thinking about asking her if she needed assistance, when he saw Gu Xiaoxi tumble out of the other side of the car.


    She seemed to be still wary of him.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s heart was stabbed fiercely.


    What on earth had he done?


    Hurt her so deeply?


    So much so that she didn¡¯t even want to deal with him?


    The young soldier driving the car twitched the corner of his mouth, realizing that the only person who could make Quan Shaoqing this embarrassed was a rookie soldier.


    This was a relationship he¡¯d need to take time to study thoroughly.


    Gu Xiaoxi trudged upstairs with her head down, the dim light flickering in the hallway, creating an atmosphere of profound stillness.


    Quan Shaoqing followed behind Gu Xiaoxi, looking at her estranged figure with speechlessness.


    Upon returning home, the night had fallen completely.


    In the twilight haze, the whole military district was immersed in the night, the national flag proudly fluttering in the wind, and the guards stood with their imposing presence.


    Once back, Gu Xiaoxi immersed herself in hot water.


    She lay in the bathtub, letting the warm water wash away the day¡¯s exhaustion.


    Under the light, the young girl¡¯s skin was as pale as snow, her ink-black short hair carelessly tied up at the back of her head, her lustrous and glowing face radiated the unique charm and delicate beauty of a woman.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s fingers playfully poked at the bath bubbles, carefully reminiscing over the past few days.


    She suddenly felt that being a soldier wasn¡¯t as bad as she had imagined; although it was hard, it wasn¡¯t lonely.


    Unconsciously, she found herself surrounded by people like Qin Chu, Mei Su, Song Jingyi, and others.


    At least she would never be lonely again!


    Gu Xiaoxi clapped the bubbles in her hands and smiled at herself in the mirror, feeling beautiful.


    She had gotten used to her short hair and found herself prettier and more carefree than before.


    ¡°Zookeeper, could you get me a bath towel?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing was washing vegetables when he suddenly heard Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s voice from the bathroom.


    He frowned, his face inexplicably darkening, ¡°This girl...¡±


    He went to Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s room, found a bath towel, walked to the bathroom door, and knocked, ¡°I¡¯ll hang it on the door.


    You can get it yourself!¡±


    Having said that, Quan Shaoqing turned and walked back to the kitchen.


    However, before he reached the kitchen door, a scream came from behind him.


    The sound was piercing, painfully ringing in one¡¯s ears, and startled him into hastily rushing towards the bathroom.


    The bathroom door swung open.


    Inside the bathroom, under the lights, glimmering reflections danced on the crystal walls.


    The girl lay naked at the edge of the bathtub, apparently having slipped.


    She was holding her ankle, her face twisted in pain as she bent over.


    It seemed that upon hearing the noise of the door, Gu Xiaoxi instinctively turned her head to look towards it.


    She locked eyes directly with Quan Shaoqing, who was opening the door.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Another scream echoed to the skies.

 Chapter 48 - 48 018 was kicked out

    ?48: 018 was kicked out 48: 018 was kicked out Embarrassment spread throughout the room.


    Quan Shaoqing slammed the bathroom door shut with a bang, wishing he could smack himself.


    He had been too excited, bursting through the door just like that.


    He was wrong!


    His mind was flashing with all kinds of guilty images, stirring his heart into a rapid thump.


    He ran to the living room, annoyed, taking deep breaths; it was only a moment, but it felt worse than if he¡¯d lost a battle.


    In a panic, he picked up a cigarette from the table, lit it, and sat on the sofa, inhaling deeply.


    Gu Xiaoxi came out of the bathroom, clutching her towel, and saw Quan Shaoqing sitting in the living room, smoking.


    She tiptoed, stealthily moving toward her room from behind him.


    Because only Quan Shaoqing lived in this apartment, there was just one bathroom; one had to walk through the living room to get to her room.


    At this moment, Quan Shaoqing¡¯s back was towards her.


    Gu Xiaoxi tiptoed quietly, dashed into the bedroom, then ¡°bang¡± closed the door behind her.


    Dammit!


    Even now, her face was still hot, her heart thumping wildly.


    She suppressed the flutter in her chest, looked herself in the mirror; the girl¡¯s cheeks were flushed with crimson, her beautiful eyes gleamed with a sly light, though the hint of springtime feelings in her eyebrows and eyes was not so apparent.


    ...


    After a long time, Quan Shaoqing¡¯s voice came through, ¡°Dinner¡¯s ready!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi was already dressed in shorts and a T-shirt, hesitantly poking her fingers in her room.


    Every time she reached the door, she would turn back angrily and sit on the bed, fuming.


    Why did he barge in all of a sudden?


    What did he see?


    Did he see everything?


    Then, the knock on the door from outside, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, come out for dinner!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi dawdled before finally going out, and upon seeing Quan Shaoqing sitting at the dining table, she lifted her chin with a proud little peacock¡¯s air, ¡°You owe me an apology for what just happened.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing immediately stood up from the table and gave a military salute to Gu Xiaoxi with utmost sincerity, ¡°Sorry!


    I didn¡¯t mean to do it.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi looked him up and down, not expecting him to be so amenable; seeing his straightforward approach, she decided not to hold it against him for now.


    Thus, she pulled over a chair and sat down opposite Quan Shaoqing.


    Gu Xiaoxi picked up her bowl and looked at the peeled shrimp inside, then smiled up at Quan Shaoqing, ¡°Old Quan, tell me, do I have a good figure?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing choked on his food, nearly asphyxiating.


    It took him half a day to catch his breath, while Gu Xiaoxi ate her meal, squinting her watery, big eyes at him.


    Without his military uniform, he looked like a noble young master from a rich family, with jet-black hair, strikingly handsome features, absolutely demonic.


    His high nose bridge glistened like jade, and his thin lips revealed a tempting flush of red.


    Most importantly, he could cook, even peel shrimp for her, cared about her, took care of her¡ªhe was simply the world¡¯s number one man.


    She contemplated whether to take advantage of her position and get her way first.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, girls should have self-respect!¡± Quan Shaoqing finally found his voice, picking up the water next to him for a drink.


    It took him a long while to compose himself, anguishing over Gu Xiaoxi, his eyes full of anger.


    ¡°You were the one who pushed the door and came in!¡± Gu Xiaoxi shrugged, her delicate little face filled with innocence.


    Quan Shaoqing patted his chest, calmly admitting his regret, ¡°I was wrong.


    Little ancestor, please remember to prepare your own towel next time before you bathe.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi, looking at the frustration in his eyes, lowered her head, her long eyelashes casting a shadow to hide the fleeting disappointment.


    Just then, her heart, leaping with throbs, was instantly doused with cold water.


    She was wrong!


    She shouldn¡¯t have had those wicked thoughts about him.


    In his heart, perhaps he simply saw her as a child.


    He took care of her, helped her, protected her, and he played his role as a guardian very well.


    Even though he had seen her nude, it didn¡¯t spark any feelings in him.


    The atmosphere at the dining table suddenly became quiet and eerie.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s deep eyes fixed on Gu Xiaoxi, not understanding why someone who was fine just a moment ago suddenly stopped talking.


    Could it be that she was still brooding over the incident in the bathroom?


    Quan Shaoqing felt that the knowledge he had acquired over more than twenty years was suddenly inadequate.


    Perhaps he should buy some books on education and study them properly?


    ¡°I¡¯m full!¡± Gu Xiaoxi put down her chopsticks and gave Quan Shaoqing a military salute.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to sleep now.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing gave her a once-over, still the same Gu Xiaoxi¡ªsomewhat arrogant, stubborn, and a bit ruffian.


    But why did it suddenly feel like she had changed?


    ¡°Zookeeper, are you reluctant to see me go?


    How about I keep you company tonight?¡± Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes mischievously, her gaze sweeping toward Quan Shaoqing¡¯s strong chest visible through his unbuttoned shirt.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s face darkened.


    He had hoped that after what had just happened, she would have quieted down a little.


    However, it seemed she hadn¡¯t changed in the slightest.


    He was wrong again!


    To expect her to restrain herself was like expecting a leopard to change its spots!


    ¡°I order you to go back to sleep, in your own room,¡± Quan Shaoqing said loudly.


    ¡°Roger that!


    Goodnight, zookeeper!¡± Gu Xiaoxi turned around and ran to her room.


    The bedroom door slammed shut, followed by the sound of a lock clicking into place.


    Gu Xiaoxi headed straight for the computer in her room.


    The budding feelings of infatuation she had just experienced were like new shoots on the branch, ruthlessly pinched off as they began to emerge.


    It couldn¡¯t even be considered a heartbreak.


    Gu Xiaoxi made a face at the door, as if to dismiss her earlier self as having a moment of madness.


    The computer booted up.


    To her surprise, it had a password lock.


    For a disciple of a top hacker like herself, it was child¡¯s play.


    In thirty seconds, she cracked the password, successfully started the computer, and logged into her Jin account.


    In the account¡¯s chatroom, there were many people, all of whom recognized her, though she didn¡¯t know any of them.


    She suspected her master and the others were present, but since they didn¡¯t acknowledge their identities, she had no idea who was who.


    ¡°Little X has come online.


    I heard about Gu Lirou¡¯s car accident, is it true?¡± A person named Su San sent out a message.


    Instantly, the chatroom exploded.


    ¡°Our senior sister died?


    Why didn¡¯t we get any messages?¡±


    ¡°Who did it?¡±


    ¡°Little X, such a big thing has happened, why didn¡¯t you tell us?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi remained silent for a moment, a cold expression crossing her delicate face, ¡°The incident was indeed a car accident.


    I didn¡¯t tell you because my mom said she didn¡¯t want to trouble you all.¡±


    ¡°Then why have you only come online now, where have you been for over a month?¡± Su San asked.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s fingers hovered over the keyboard, in a gloomy mood, ¡°It¡¯s a long story.


    From now on, I might seldom visit here.


    However, I need a favor from you all.


    I¡¯ve heard from Zhang San¡¯s old crew that there may be more to my mom¡¯s death.


    Help me find out, who were her enemies!¡±


    After Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s words, the chatroom went silent¡ªdeathly silent.


    It took a while before Su San finally responded, ¡°Little X, take care of yourself!


    I¡¯m going to delete you from the chatroom.


    We will avenge your mom¡¯s enemies.


    You live well and fulfill your mom¡¯s last wish, to become a successful ordinary person.¡±


    Damn!


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s hand had just touched the keyboard when the computer screen suddenly went blank.


    Three seconds later, the computer returned to normal, but she was already logged out of her Jin account!


    When she tried to log in again, the message displayed said that the webpage had been deleted.


    Fuck!


    She had been kicked out!

 Chapter 49 - 49 019 Accidentally Met

    ?49: 019 Accidentally Met 49: 019 Accidentally Met Gu Xiaoxi instantly became furious, these people, and to think she had considered them her friends.


    Her mother was gone, and they had actually kicked her out of the account, even hiding their internal webpages from her.


    Do they think Missy here is a child?


    Gu Xiaoxi rolled up her sleeves, her fingers rapidly typing various codes into the computer, the keyboard clacking under her swift strokes.


    In just a moment, a smile brushed her face, ¡°Trying to hide from me?


    As if they don¡¯t know who taught me.¡±


    Right at the critical moment, a loud knocking on the door disrupted her, Gu Xiaoxi lost focus, and the computer screen was immediately taken over by millions of numerical codes.


    Gu Xiaoxi slammed her hand on the keyboard in anger, ¡°Fuck, all these addresses.


    You guys are ruthless!¡±


    The final track was interrupted by Quan Shaoqing¡¯s knocking, and Gu Xiaoxi stormed to the door, glaring at the man standing there with a glass of milk, grinding her teeth, ¡°Don¡¯t you know I was sleeping?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing held the milk glass, still not having reacted from Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s fury.


    How had he offended her again?


    ¡°I saw you didn¡¯t eat much tonight, so I poured you a glass of milk,¡± Quan Shaoqing felt like he couldn¡¯t even speak properly.


    This guy was getting more and more arrogant.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at the milk glass in his hand, took it, drank it in one breath, then handed back the empty glass to him, ¡°Thanks!¡±


    With that, she closed and locked the door, leaving Quan Shaoqing still standing at the bedroom entrance.


    He touched his nose, a bitter taste rising in his heart, caring for a child sure was hard work...


    Gu Xiaoxi stood at the door with her hands on her hips for a long time, an unnamed anger in her heart growing instead of subsiding.


    He was always so nice to her, yet harbored no ulterior motives towards her.


    Was this man clueless, or did he already have someone he liked?


    Gu Xiaoxi felt irritated at the thought that he might treat another woman better than her.


    Just as Quan Shaoqing got back to the bedroom, ready to undress and go to bed, the door was kicked open.


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    After the loud noise, Gu Xiaoxi was seen chewing gum, hands in pockets, standing at the door with a mischievous and unrestrained air about her.


    Quan Shaoqing sized her up, his handsome eyebrows knitted, ¡°What now?¡±


    It seemed he really needed to educate her well.


    Gu Xiaoxi lifted her chin, looking at Quan Shaoqing, ¡°I want to visit BD Film Academy tomorrow.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing pondered for a moment, his gaze crashing into Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s dark eyes, and he nodded, ¡°Okay!¡±


    *


    The next day, Quan Shaoqing took her on a helicopter, returning to the home that occupied an entire hill in A City.


    Standing at the front door, Gu Xiaoxi felt that something was missing from this home.


    No matter how much Quan Shaoqing called her, she just stood at the door, refusing to move.


    After thinking for a long time, she finally remembered.


    It was the naming of this place that she had forgotten.


    Gu Xiaoxi swept her gaze across everything in the estate, the garden full of blooming flowers, the glittering water droplets from the fountain beside the rockery at the entrance, the opulent villa resembling a palace not far away, the winding pathway bordered by stones and surrounded by clusters of flowers¡ªit was like a splendid sanctuary.


    ¡°Let¡¯s call it Jinxiu Garden,¡± Gu Xiaoxi told the steward.


    ¡°Set up a stone tablet here; from now on, this place will be known as Jinxiu Garden.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± The steward quickly nodded.


    This was also Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s home after all, and typically, Quan Shaoqing wouldn¡¯t contradict what she said.


    So for things like naming, he too would comply.


    Besides, the words ¡®Jinxiu¡¯ sounded imposing and meaningful, fitting for this place.


    When Quan Shaoqing heard the steward¡¯s report, he didn¡¯t object either.


    He wasn¡¯t home most of the time, so he wouldn¡¯t notice these things.


    If Gu Xiaoxi liked it, then it was fine with him.


    In the afternoon, Quan Shaoqing took Gu Xiaoxi to visit the BD Film and Television Academy, the place of her dreams.


    It was a very large, luxuriously decorated place with grand and magnificent buildings.


    The variety of classrooms inside was dazzling.


    When Gu Xiaoxi visited, one of the classrooms had students attending a physical expression class.


    She looked through the glass door at the figures dancing with the music, unable to define the feeling in her heart.


    However, one thing was certain, she no longer had that intense desire for this place.


    Compared to these melodious tunes, she seemed to prefer the loud military songs.


    Instead of the elegant jumping and spinning moves, she seemed to prefer sweating with her comrades, carrying guns onto the battlefield.


    They say people change!


    Even the things one likes, one day, might no longer be appealing.


    It¡¯s just that she hadn¡¯t expected to change so fast.


    In just over ten days, Gu Xiaoxi was no longer the Gu Xiaoxi she used to be.


    The golden Glazed Mirror shimmered with luxurious light in the sunlight.


    From a distance, Quan Shaoqing watched Gu Xiaoxi, her tall figure was slender, but she had an unimaginable explosive power.


    A gentle breeze blew, lifting her ink-black hair, revealing a delicate face that, when serious, made her whole person appear mysterious and inscrutable.


    Sometimes, even he couldn¡¯t understand her, nor could he grasp her temper.


    It was this kind of girl who barged into his world and turned his life upside down.


    He used to have a bad temper, but he indulged her to an infuriating extent.


    ¡°Why are you staring at me?


    Did you suddenly realize how handsome I am?¡± Gu Xiaoxi hugged one of Quan Shaoqing¡¯s arms as they walked out of BD¡¯s film city together.


    The afternoon sun was slanting and Quan Shaoqing reached out to touch Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s head, smiling indulgently, ¡°Are you content now?¡±


    ¡°What else?¡± Gu Xiaoxi asked looking at him, the typically cold him counter-questioned.


    No matter what, at least she no longer had dreams about this place.


    From now on, she would position herself as a soldier.


    To protect the family and the country!


    With open honesty and integrity, to be a good soldier!


    Quan Shaoqing promised to treat her to hot pot.


    It was a very high-end restaurant, where the beef was air-freighted to ensure it was the freshest imported beef, which would be served no more than four hours after slaughter.


    In a quiet private room, Quan Shaoqing ordered food.


    Gu Xiaoxi wanted to go to the restroom.


    She walked with cheerful steps, whistling, hands in her pockets, occasionally even doing a fancy jump, drawing the excited and sidelong glances of the waiting staff.


    As Gu Xiaoxi passed through the luxurious corridor, her gaze unintentionally fell on an elevator entrance not far away, where five people just happened to be descending.


    A middle-aged man, accompanied by a man and a woman, as well as two bodyguards wearing sunglasses.


    He had a broad, square face, a commanding presence in his features, and his eyes were sharp and tigery.


    His tall and sturdy figure made him look heroic and imposing.


    His arrival immediately caught the attention of the staff, who stood neatly in line to welcome him eagerly, ¡°President Fu, your private room is over here.


    Welcome!¡±


    Fu Qiuyi nodded and said with a smile to the girl at his side, ¡°Fu Xin, haven¡¯t you been clamoring to eat hot pot?


    Today Dad will treat you till you¡¯re satisfied!¡±


    The girl hugged the man¡¯s arm happily, smiling softly and beautifully, ¡°Thank you, Dad!¡±


    ¡°Dad, you can¡¯t be too biased.


    Xiao Xin has been spoiled by you,¡± Fu Xiuyi joked from the side.


    ¡°She¡¯s the only woman in our family.


    Don¡¯t you spoil her, too!¡± Fu Qiuyi said with a kind smile.


    The family seemed to be having a harmonious and warm time together.


    At the end of the corridor, where the light was a bit dim, Gu Xiaoxi stood with her hands in her pockets, leaning against the wall like a wooden stake, her figure hidden in the haze.


    No one noticed her expression at that moment!

 Chapter 50 - 50 Some words are very warm

    ?50: Some words are very warm 50: Some words are very warm Gu Xiaoxi stood for a long while until those individuals had all disappeared from view.


    Her face stretched tight, her back rigid.


    It took quite some time for her to regain her composure, and then she raised her hand to rub her sore nose.


    Her heart felt inexplicably icy cold!


    She lifted her head, a few strands of her ink-black hair in disarray, but her proud chin remained sharp and aloof.


    Her gaze fell upon the street not far away, bustling with traffic and lit up like a myriad of stars.


    She thought, some people, some hatreds, will never be resolved in this lifetime!


    She shouldn¡¯t have harbored any longing for family ties, not after so many years.


    She was already a Gu, and those people had long since had nothing to do with her.


    Gu Xiaoxi smoothed the strands of hair from her forehead and turned to walk indifferently towards the restroom.


    Quan Shaoqing was waiting for Gu Xiaoxi when his phone suddenly rang.


    He answered, and Lin Mi¡¯s anxious voice came through, ¡°Superior officer, where are you right now?


    I just received a message that someone has tracked you down.


    There¡¯s a targeted assassination organized against you.


    This time, many from the Assassins¡¯ Circle are involved.


    The bounty is 1.8 billion!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s eyes shifted, 1.8 billion to kill him?


    ...!


    That was indeed a hefty sum!


    The next second, the man¡¯s aura turned frosty.


    He abruptly stood up, ended the call, and rushed towards the restroom.


    If many from the Assassins¡¯ Circle were mobilized, Gu Xiaoxi, who had been following him, would definitely be in danger.


    Especially since!


    Gu Xiaoxi had gone to the restroom a long time ago and hadn¡¯t come back yet, which made him worry frantically.


    Could she have encountered danger?


    Could she have been kidnapped?


    Or!


    Given her character, if she had confronted someone, could she be injured?


    Complex and chilling thoughts nearly drove him insane as he rushed forward and pushed open the door to the ladies¡¯ restroom.


    Gu Xiaoxi was washing her hands at the sink when she heard the door being pushed open.


    She turned her head to look and, upon seeing who it was, her face darkened instantly, ¡°Don¡¯t you know this is the ladies¡¯ restroom?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing had no time to explain.


    He approached, grabbed Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s hand, and said, ¡°Quick, let¡¯s go!


    This place isn¡¯t safe!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi, pulled along by him, felt utterly baffled.


    However, before they could take many steps, a dull gunshot sounded, and the glass behind the restroom was pierced by a hole about three centimeters wide.


    Gu Xiaoxi only felt herself being embraced by a pair of strong arms.


    The arms were solid and provided a sense of security.


    For some reason, her nose suddenly felt sore.


    Why is it that sometimes the people closest to us are not even as good as strangers?


    Gu Lirou was unconditionally good to her, educated her, raised her, and taught her the skills to survive.


    Quan Shaoqing accepted her, protected her without conditions, and pampered her with thoughtfulness and meticulous care, moving her profoundly.


    She thought, in the future...


    if he were never to disappoint her, she too would consider him the most important person and protect him with her life.


    Quan Shaoqing shielded Gu Xiaoxi, and they hid behind a concealed wall.


    Evidently, there was a sniper on the building opposite the restroom.


    That shot just now was too dangerous.


    If he hadn¡¯t arrived so quickly, it very likely could have been aimed at Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s head.


    He was so frightened that his breathing changed rhythm as he looked down at Gu Xiaoxi.


    Within her jet-black eyes, a thick fog seemed to be condensing, about to burst forth any second.


    Was she scared into crying?


    Quan Shaoqing was taken aback.


    He immediately reached out, pulled her head into his embrace, and rubbed it vigorously.


    ¡°What¡¯s there to be afraid of when I¡¯m here?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi could only smell the faint scent of tobacco around her nose.


    She pushed away his hand and bumped her forehead against his solid chest, retorting, ¡°I am not scared, alright?¡±


    ¡°Then why are you crying?¡± Quan Shaoqing pinched her flushed little nose and explained seriously, ¡°I¡¯m not a hooligan.


    I pushed open the restroom door just because I was worried about you.


    There was no other meaning!¡±


    Some words may be said casually, but when heard, they feel especially warm.


    Gu Xiaoxi suppressed the touch of emotion in her heart.


    She smiled at him, ¡°Hooligan!


    I think the word suits you quite well.¡±


    At the same time, she slipped her hand into Quan Shaoqing¡¯s suit jacket, and sure enough, there was a gun inside.


    The next second, she drew his service pistol and waved it in front of Quan Shaoqing, ¡°Go start the car!


    If the other party is prepared, they are in the shadows, and we are in the open.


    We have no idea about their arrangement, so let¡¯s get out of here first!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing scanned Gu Xiaoxi from head to toe, his eyes filled with inquiry.


    Just a moment ago, she looked like she was about to cry and now she confidently analyzed the situation.


    Her change of face was way too fast!


    Did she just call him a hooligan?


    ...Embarrassing!


    It seems that no matter what, he would never be able to clear his name in this lifetime.


    However, Quan Shaoqing didn¡¯t have time to delve into her abrupt change of expression, as he pulled Gu Xiaoxi towards the underground garage.


    Without a doubt, there must be someone lurking in the garage.


    As expected, after going down, he found all the chandeliers had been turned off, making the entire garage pitch dark, where one couldn¡¯t see their own hand in front of them.


    Quan Shaoqing took out another service pistol from his hand and cautiously guarded the surroundings.


    It would take twenty minutes for his men to get here.


    If people were laying in wait here, it would be a fierce battle!


    The shattering glass in the restroom earlier hadn¡¯t caused a stir because the other side used silencers, so others just thought someone had deliberately broken the glass.


    In the garage, Gu Xiaoxi and Quan Shaoqing carefully made their way to their car.


    A massive shadow not far away caught their attention.


    Quan Shaoqing quietly passed the car keys to Gu Xiaoxi and made a hand gesture, ¡°Go start the car!¡±


    Although Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t quite understand the meaning of the gesture, she could guess his intention through the car keys he handed over.


    Clutching the car keys, she crouched behind a row of car tails, creeping towards their Z0 car parked not far away.


    Quan Shaoqing held the gun and aimed at the large shadow not far away.


    Not sure if the figure was an enemy, and fearing harming the innocent, he didn¡¯t immediately fire.


    But the next second, as if sensing something, the figure suddenly turned around, followed by the sound of a gunshot.


    Quan Shaoqing immediately leaped up, executing a backflip.


    At the same time, accompanied by the sound of a gunshot, the person hit the ground.


    In the air, a faint scent of blood spread slowly.


    Taking advantage of the brief moment Quan Shaoqing was engaged with the assailant, Gu Xiaoxi opened the car door, jumped in, but before she could insert the car key, a cold blade was pressed against her neck.


    She could even feel the knife blade cutting into her skin, the unrivaled chill instantly spreading from her neck throughout her body.


    At the same time, not far away, Quan Shaoqing was surrounded by four people.


    Three men, large and muscular, each holding different weapons, and a woman with a long sword on her back, her gaze predatory.


    In the pitch-dark basement, everyone was anonymous, unable to see each other¡¯s faces, but one could feel a chilling breeze spreading slowly, turning the already stuffy basement instantly cold as ice.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s eyes narrowed dangerously.


    These were definitely battle-hardened assassins!

 Chapter 51 - 51 021 Who on earth is this disastrous naughty girl from

    ?51: 021 Who on earth is this disastrous naughty girl from?


    51: 021 Who on earth is this disastrous naughty girl from?


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s eyes narrowed dangerously.


    This was definitely a battle-hardened assassin!


    There was hardly any conversation before Quan Shaoqing engaged with the opponent.


    Gu Xiaoxi listened to the fighting sounds outside, carefully tilting her head to look behind her.


    In the darkness, she saw nothing.


    Only a man¡¯s chilling voice came from behind, ¡°Don¡¯t move, or I can¡¯t guarantee your head will stay on your neck.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi quickly pretended to be terrified and pleaded, ¡°Don¡¯t!


    I¡¯ll do whatever you say.


    Just don¡¯t kill me!¡±


    ¡°Hmph!


    At least you know what¡¯s good for you!


    Drive!


    Get closer to Quan Shaoqing!


    Lure him up here for me,¡± the voice said mockingly.


    Gu Xiaoxi hurriedly grabbed the car keys, inserted them into the ignition, and the engine roared to life.


    She turned tremulously to the person behind her and said, ¡°Can you pull the knife back a bit?


    It¡¯s so close that a little slip and my head would fall off.


    That would be such a loss for me.


    The person you want to kill is Quan Shaoqing, not me.¡±


    ¡°Quit yapping!¡± The man behind her growled impatiently, retracting the blade three centimeters from Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s neck.


    Just then, Gu Xiaoxi floored the accelerator, and the car shot forward, then made a sharp turn and stopped.


    With first-class driving skills and incredible speed.


    The man with the knife was caught off guard, and with the car¡¯s surge, swift turn, and sudden stop, he fell backward onto the rear seat, his head hitting the car door.


    By the time he recovered, he saw Gu Xiaoxi had already turned to face him, with a gun in her hand, aimed at his head.


    In the blink of an eye, he was shocked by the young girl¡¯s astonishing speed.


    Inside the ZO, in the confined space, the light tore through the darkness, shining on both of them.


    Gu Xiaoxi lifted her wickedly arching brows, her delicate features breaking into an evil smile.


    She whistled at the man, ¡°Hey!


    Bullying a woman, how very ungentlemanly of you.¡±


    Jin Hai¡¯s handsome eyes twitched fiercely, ¡°Are you even a woman?


    At best, you¡¯re just a little girl.


    I didn¡¯t expect you had some skills!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s face darkened.


    She was already eighteen years old and yet he dared to say she wasn¡¯t a woman.


    ¡°If I have skills, let¡¯s fight outside.


    Damage my precious car, and I¡¯ll make your ancestors pay dearly,¡± Gu Xiaoxi sneered.


    Jin Hai had never seen such a brash girl before.


    His eyes, cold and narrow, he was the first to open the door and jump out.


    The next second, Gu Xiaoxi followed close behind.


    Outside the car, the two faced each other, guns raised in anger.


    With the headlights on, the scene of Gu Xiaoxi confronting Jin Hai caught Young Master Quan¡¯s eye, tightening his heart.


    Four people surrounded Quan Shaoqing.


    From a martial arts perspective, their skills were awe-inspiring.


    He couldn¡¯t possibly split his attention to help Gu Xiaoxi while dealing with the four of them.


    He dared not show too much concern for her, least the enemy perceive that she was his weakness.


    If they sent more after Gu Xiaoxi, he would be helpless and unable to do anything.


    All he had to do right now was dispose of the four in front of him quickly.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked up, her lips curving into a smile, ¡°Seems we both draw our guns fast.


    Too bad it¡¯s lacking in challenge.


    How about this!


    Guns are too dangerous.


    Let¡¯s compare combat skills, shall we!¡±


    Jin Hai glanced at Gu Xiaoxi, his interest piqued, ¡°Since you want to play, I¡¯ll honor your request.


    I¡¯ll count to three, and we¡¯ll both drop our guns!¡±


    ¡°One, two, three!¡±


    ¡°Thud!


    Thud!¡±


    Both guns were thrown ten meters away, and Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s lips curled into a sly smile.


    Her marksmanship was average at best and against a real sharpshooter, she would be instantly killed.


    Jin Hai¡¯s grip on his weapon was a testament to his prowess, far from an ordinary assassin.


    She couldn¡¯t gamble with her life on whether he was a sharpshooter or not.


    She had to ensure a decisive victory to take down these villains in one fell swoop.


    In almost the blink of an eye, the two engaged in a deadly combat.


    Gu Xiaoxi moved swiftly, slipping through Jin Hai¡¯s punches as easily as an eel.


    Even more surprising to Jin Hai was that Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s strikes weren¡¯t just pure combat moves; they were infused with traditional martial arts¡ªfast, accurate, ruthless.


    Suddenly, Gu Xiaoxi threw him a flirtatious look.


    Distracted, he was punched in the chest by Gu Xiaoxi.


    The next instant, he was sent flying backward, his lungs feeling as though they were about to explode with pain.


    Jin Hai felt a sweetness in his throat and spewed out a mouthful of blood.


    Before he could retaliate, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s foot was on his neck, pinning him down, immobile.


    ¡°You lost!¡± Gu Xiaoxi said with a slight smile, her face charming and lovely, the spitting image of a cute little Lolita.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t hit handsome guys!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi let go of her foot and stepped away from Jin Hai¡¯s throat, turning around...


    Jin Hai clutched his chest, gasping for air.


    Watching Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s retreating figure, he sneered.


    Even if she was good at martial arts, so what?


    A child was still a child, giving the enemy a chance to breathe was signing one¡¯s own death warrant.


    Jin Hai glanced to the side where a gun happened to lay.


    He scooped it up quickly, aiming at Gu Xiaoxi.


    But before he could even pull the trigger...


    He felt a sudden pain in his forehead!


    Touching it, he found a steel dart deeply embedded between his eyes.


    Stunned, his eyes widened just to see Gu Xiaoxi turning back with a sweet smile, ¡°I said I wouldn¡¯t hit handsome guys, but that doesn¡¯t mean I won¡¯t kill!


    Oh!...


    and you really think you¡¯re a handsome guy?¡±


    Pfft!


    Pfft!


    Pfft!


    Jin Hai spat out three mouthfuls of blood!


    Dammit!


    If nothing else, she¡¯d managed to anger him to death.


    Which family¡¯s catastrophic little brat was this?

 Chapter 52 - 52 022 Her master Lu Xi!

    ?52: 022 Her master Lu Xi!


    52: 022 Her master Lu Xi!


    Quan Shaoqing fought against four adversaries, and after dozens of exchanges, one of them was already lying dead on the ground.


    The remaining three assassins were shocked, as they had killed countless people.


    An average person wouldn¡¯t last ten moves against them.


    Yet Quan Shaoqing, not only did he defend and attack with measure, but he also took on four at once, injuring all of them and even managing to kill one.


    Due to the intense battle that had just occurred, both sides had expended some of their combat strength.


    Neither side attacked rashly, and the atmosphere was tense.


    Just then, the grating sound of screeching brakes rang out, and the intense light of a car¡¯s headlamps shone directly at them, dazzling everyone¡¯s eyes.


    The three assassins cried out in alarm, but they couldn¡¯t see anything.


    Gu Xiaoxi floored the accelerator, and the car charged fiercely in the narrow garage.


    The three assassins instinctively leaped up, breaking out in a cold sweat.


    They almost became the lost souls under Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s car.


    Quan Shaoqing cast an admiring glance at her, taking advantage of the assassins¡¯ momentary daze to jump into the car.


    Gu Xiaoxi quickly pressed down on the accelerator, and the car circled half the garage before exiting the basement.


    Ten minutes later, the car was traveling smoothly on the main street.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, you just killed someone,¡± Quan Shaoqing sat in the passenger seat, looking at Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s calm profile.


    Sometimes, she was truly difficult to read.


    Gu Xiaoxi drove seriously.


    Puzzled by Quan Shaoqing¡¯s sudden question, she responded, ¡°Didn¡¯t you kill someone too?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s completely different!


    You¡¯re only eighteen, this is your first time in the military, and also your first time dealing with bad people.


    Don¡¯t you feel any psychological burden?¡± He just found it somewhat unbelievable.


    How could such a young girl possess such strong mental fortitude?


    ¡°Why should I feel any psychological burden?¡± Gu Xiaoxi turned her head, her bright eyes shining with determination.


    When others wanted her dead, she would show no mercy.


    Quan Shaoqing felt a lump in his throat and his eye twitched violently!


    It took a good while for the corners of his mouth to lift up in an admiring smile.


    With Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s current mental caliber and standard, she was fully qualified to join his elite combat unit.


    But this kid was a bit too arrogant!


    There are always people better than oneself, and there¡¯s always room for improvement.


    She still needed to be tempered, as growth required not just time, but also experience.


    As Gu Xiaoxi drove, Quan Shaoqing carelessly took out a cigarette to light it.


    ¡°We missed out on hotpot today, can you settle for something else?¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Gu Xiaoxi nonchalantly agreed.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go have late-night snacks on Wall Street!¡±


    ¡°I mean, eat at home!¡± Quan Shaoqing raised his voice a bit, emphasizing.


    She had just fought a life and death struggle with bad guys, didn¡¯t she feel any sense of danger?


    Quan Shaoqing stared at Gu Xiaoxi, feeling that her thought processes were enigmatic.


    ¡°But what if I want to eat out?¡± Gu Xiaoxi turned her head, her large eyes fixing on him.


    Seeing his serious expression, she countered, ¡°Didn¡¯t we shake off those guys just now?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing held his breath tight in his chest.


    He couldn¡¯t possibly tell her that a hit had been ordered, 1.8 billion for his life.


    It wasn¡¯t something to be proud of and too difficult to say out loud.


    At that moment, Lin Mi¡¯s call appeared on ZO¡¯s large screen.


    Quan Shaoqing had just connected when Lin Mi¡¯s anxious and panicked voice came through, ¡°Superior officer, where are you?


    Our people have surrounded the basement of the hotpot city and found three bodies.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m already on my way back.


    You guys examine the scene first and identify the bodies.


    I¡¯ll be back in an hour...¡±


    Before Quan Shaoqing could finish, Gu Xiaoxi addressed Lin Mi, ¡°No need.


    Stay safe, we¡¯re heading back.¡± With that, she hung up on Lin Mi.


    Did this girl understand what an order was?


    Since when was it her place to command?


    And she dares to be so cavalier?


    Quan Shaoqing frowned, ¡°I¡¯ll take you back first!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi reversed the car back from the intersection, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you wanted me to observe real combat?


    This is a great opportunity.¡± In fact, she was well aware that Quan Shaoqing was worried about her, fearing she might be in danger if she came along.


    Gu Xiaoxi felt displeased!


    Was she really that inadequate?


    With a dark face, Quan Shaoqing retorted angrily, ¡°But this is different!


    The enemy is hidden and we are exposed; accidents can easily happen.


    This war has nothing to do with you.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi turned to look at Quan Shaoqing, his grave expression underscoring the danger of the situation, ¡°As a subordinate, it¡¯s my duty to protect my superior officer.


    As family, I have an obligation to fight alongside you and cannot let you take risks alone.


    If I encountered bad people, would you stand by and do nothing?¡±


    She pronounced the word ¡®family¡¯ with particular weight, indicating emotions beyond words.


    Compared to her previous animosity toward him, this time her words sounded particularly pleasing to him.


    The neon light shimmered faintly outside the car, filtering through the bulletproof glass to illuminate her face, rendering her delicate features mysterious and prominent in the darkness.


    Quan Shaoqing turned away, feeling a warm current passing through his heart.


    It was as if a glacier frozen for millions of years suddenly had lava erupting underneath, melting a thin stream in its icy depths.


    The car sped toward the scene of the incident.


    However, they hadn¡¯t reached the scene yet.


    At the crossroads, a sleek black Buick burst out, slamming hard into ZO.


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t see it coming, and ZO was shoved onto a roadside green strip due to the impact.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s head hit the steering wheel, and for a moment everything spun.


    She fought through the pain and looked outside the car only to see the black Buick charging again.


    Without time to think, she hit the gas, forcing the car over the greenery on the divider to avoid it.


    It was during the brief moment when the two cars passed each other that she saw the person in the Buick.


    A face impressive with a natural air of command, eyebrows raised, eyes carrying a hint of the demonic.


    That face, she remembered it as if it was etched in her memory.


    Despite not having seen him for eight years, she recognized him instantly.


    Her mentor, Lu Xi!

 Chapter 53 - 53 023 Master I miss you so much!

    ?53: 023 Master, I miss you so much!


    53: 023 Master, I miss you so much!


    The moment of confrontation, when our eyes met, it was clear that the other party was also stunned for a moment.


    Lu Xi only felt those eyes were familiar, yet couldn¡¯t recall where he had seen them before.


    But, as a hunter lurking in the darkness, he would never show mercy to his prey due to a moment of recognition.


    So, he quickly regained his composure and gave chase.


    At this point, Quan Shaoqing had already drawn his gun, aiming it at Lu Xi!


    ¡°Don¡¯t shoot!¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s voice was slightly agitated.


    ¡°He¡¯s Lu Xi!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing didn¡¯t lower his gun, but turned to look at Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°So you do know him.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi gave a wry smile, ¡°He probably doesn¡¯t remember me anymore.¡±


    Lu Xi was ten years her senior.


    Moreover, ten years ago, when he came to care for her, it wasn¡¯t by choice.


    Who would have thought that a twenty-year-old proud young man, having lost a bet, would take care of a ten-year-old girl?


    It was obvious how much he resented her back then.


    Instead, she pestered him relentlessly, wanting to learn to race...


    Gu Xiaoxi stepped on the gas, performing a Divine Dragon swing, pushing Lu Xi¡¯s car back half a meter, then turned at the intersection, speeding onto the left lane.


    Lu Xi was shocked.


    In this world, there were few people who could drive so well, especially to perform a Divine Dragon swing and knock his car out of the way?


    Wasn¡¯t that his signature move?


    When had it been stolen by someone else?


    Almost without hesitation, he chased after Gu Xiaoxi.


    On the ever-busy street, two black cars kept changing positions, racing in S-shaped or Z-shaped patterns down the road.


    Young Master Quan sat next to Gu Xiaoxi, his heart nearly leaping out of his chest.


    He was afraid she would cause a catastrophic chain of accidents in the urban area; that would be even crueler than facing off with the other party in a fierce battle.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, this is too dangerous.


    You need to consider public safety,¡± Quan Shaoqing urged from the side.


    ¡°I have measure of it!


    Please keep an eye on our surroundings.


    In case someone is sniping at you from the dark, watch your head,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said, still alarmed by what had happened earlier in the restroom.


    A twitch appeared on the corner of Quan Shaoqing¡¯s mouth, ¡°If it weren¡¯t for you stopping me, that guy¡¯s head would¡¯ve moved home already!¡±


    Damn!


    Three sentences!


    The two of them were at loggerheads.


    ...


    Indeed, there are natural enemies in this world.


    Worried she would cause an accident in the city, Quan Shaoqing urged her to drive towards the sparsely populated outskirts.


    Throughout this time, Lu Xi had been following her closely, unable to overtake.


    His shock could be described as turbulent waves.


    To drive so well, especially with such masterful racing skills, he had truly never seen anyone like her before.


    This made him involuntarily think of the porcelain-like young girl from ten years ago.


    Young as she was, she possessed a courage that surpassed the ordinary, a style of doing things that was wildly unrestrained, spontaneous, and genuine, making it impossible not to like her.


    Could it be her?


    With this thought, he followed Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s car all the way to the secluded mountain road.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s car suddenly made a beautiful 360-degree turn, then abruptly charged at Lu Xi, who was following behind.


    The moment Lu Xi looked up, he saw those eyes through the vast night.


    They were beautiful peach blossom eyes, dark with a wild air, the brows and eyes cold and serious, outstanding and graceful.


    As the two cars were about to collide, Lu Xi instinctively slammed on the brakes, the force of inertia almost sending him flying out.


    The piercing sound of the brakes spread through the dark woods, and the two cars had already ¡®kissed¡¯.


    Had it been a split second later, an accident would have been inevitable.


    Lu Xi adjusted his chest and let out a long sigh of relief.


    That darn girl, still as bold as ever.


    Even he, who had always been fearless, was scared half to death!


    Quan Shaoqing sat in the passenger seat with a dark expression, suppressing the turmoil inside his heart.


    He swore to himself that he would never let Gu Xiaoxi touch his car again.


    Even someone as courageous as he was had been frightened into a cold sweat by her.


    Gu Xiaoxi, elated, pushed open the car door and ran down.


    She saw that Lu Xi had also gotten out of the car.


    He stood in front of the black Porsche, dressed in light blue casual wear, which accentuated his tall figure and graceful demeanor.


    From afar, he opened his arms to her, a doting smile on his face, ¡°Xiao Xi, come here.¡±


    ¡°Master!¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eyes lit up with a smile.


    Her master hadn¡¯t forgotten about her after all.


    She too opened her arms, ready to run towards Lu Xi.


    Unexpectedly, just as she took a few steps, someone grabbed her by the collar from behind and yanked her back.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, whose side are you on, exactly?¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s face was grim as he tightly grasped her clothes.


    The other man was obviously an assassin, and yet she dared to throw herself into his arms.


    ¡°Let go, let me go.


    He¡¯s my beloved master.


    He won¡¯t hurt me,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said frantically, stamping her feet.


    Quan Shaoqing was gripping her, then he hugged her waist, holding her under his arm like a large sack.


    Seeing that she couldn¡¯t break free, Gu Xiaoxi gave up.


    She lifted her head with difficulty, looking at Lu Xi with her big, watery eyes, ¡°Master, I¡¯ve missed you so much!


    Did you miss me?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing cut her off, looking at Lu Xi and raising the gun in his hand, his entire being on high alert, ¡°Who sent you?¡±


    Lu Xi narrowed his sinister eyes, stepped forward, and looked at the continuously struggling Gu Xiaoxi.


    He chuckled at Quan Shaoqing, ¡°I¡¯m here for 1.8 billion!


    As for who the employer is, I don¡¯t know.


    That¡¯s the old rule when taking jobs.


    We just do the job, without snooping for information.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s face was stoic as he assessed whether Lu Xi was telling the truth.


    ¡°Let go of my disciple.


    Can¡¯t you see how much she dislikes you?¡± Lu Xi glared with fiery eyes at the little girl tucked under Quan Shaoqing¡¯s arm, feeling extremely distressed.


    This guy was supposed to be the one he bullied, how could he let someone else bully her?


    Quan Shaoqing looked down at Gu Xiaoxi, whose face looked pitiful.


    The truth of Lu Xi¡¯s words needed to be verified, and he had to be wary of his movements at all times.


    He couldn¡¯t let his guard down with such a dangerous character.


    This group of international assassins didn¡¯t contain a single good person.


    He couldn¡¯t allow Gu Xiaoxi to have any contact with him.


    Just then, he loosened his grip, and Gu Xiaoxi broke free from his arm, dashing towards Lu Xi with open arms.


    Quan Shaoqing staggered and almost died of anger.


    Just a moment ago, she had been determined to protect him, and in the blink of an eye, she had thrown herself into the enemy camp...


    Someone wiped away bitter tears in his heart.


    Is this what it feels like to be heartbroken?


    However, the next words from Gu Xiaoxi made Quan Shaoqing feel as if he had been struck by lightning on a sunny day.


    ¡°Master, you said you would marry me when I grew up.


    Are you ready, and when are you going to take me away?¡± Gu Xiaoxi rubbed her little head in Lu Xi¡¯s embrace while sneaking glances at Quan Shaoqing with the corner of her eye.


    Quan Shaoqing saw this, put down the gun, took a cigarette from his pocket, and lit it up!


    A cool breeze lifted the hem of his clothes, the mood was damn sad.

 Chapter 54 - 54 024 Break Off Relations

    ?54: 024 Break Off Relations 54: 024 Break Off Relations Two cars faced off head-to-head.


    Quan Shaoqing leaned against the car door, watching Gu Xiaoxi hug Lu Xi¡¯s arm, coquettishly seeking attention.


    He just quietly watched, as for what they said...


    ¡°Master, you¡¯ve become even more handsome.


    Why haven¡¯t you come to see me after you left?¡±


    ¡°Haven¡¯t I been busy?¡±


    ¡°Excuses.


    Have you been looking for Sister Su?


    You don¡¯t keep your word; do you still want to marry me?¡±


    ¡°Xiao Xi, although everyone loves you and flowers bloom at your sight, your master was already taken ten years ago.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi burst into tears with a loud ¡®waah¡¯.


    They say one who is nearby the water gets the moon first, and rabbits prefer the grass by their burrow.


    How is it that for her, the grass near her burrow turned out to be as hard as iron?


    Biting into it would break her teeth!


    Gu Xiaoxi crossed her arms, glaring at Lu Xi with fury, ¡°I¡¯m going to sever ties with you.¡±


    Lu Xi looked at Gu Xiaoxi, puzzled.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you just insist on marrying me just now?¡±


    ¡°Just now, you drove your car and nearly killed me.¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s ¡®friendship¡¯ capsized in an instant.


    Lu Xi firmly grasped Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s shoulder and then had her face Quan Shaoqing, ¡°See that?


    That man is worth 1.8 billion.


    If you and your master kill him, I¡¯ll give you nine hundred million.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s slender fingers held a cigarette, lazily lifting his eyelids; in his eyes, a cold gaze fell on Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi shivered on the spot, turned around to pat Lu Xi¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Master, you¡¯re mistaken.


    He¡¯s already mine.


    That 1.8 billion is mine; why should I share half with you?¡±


    Lu Xi widened his eyes in surprise and looked toward Quan Shaoqing.


    Quan Shaoqing simply lifted his head arrogantly, glowering at Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°You better hurry up and come back to me.¡±


    As he spoke, a dozen military helicopters appeared in the sky not far off, their presence as imposing as a rainbow.


    Lu Xi¡¯s eyes narrowed¡ªtrouble!


    This man had been stalling for time from the beginning; his support troops had arrived.


    Was Quan Shaoqing trying to capture him?


    Almost without hesitation, Lu Xi grabbed Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s shoulder and pressed a gun to her head, turning her into a hostage.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s expression went through several changes, and he fiercely discarded the cigarette butt, staring at Lu Xi with deep eyes, ¡°She trusts you so much.


    Is this how you treat her?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Xiao Xi,¡± Lu Xi glanced at the unmoving Gu Xiaoxi and looked back at Quan Shaoqing.


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for you forcing me, I wouldn¡¯t have done this.


    You¡¯d better not act rashly.


    I¡¯m cold-blooded; I won¡¯t show any mercy just because I knew her as a child!¡±


    Lu Xi grabbed Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s hand, took out handcuffs from behind him, and locked them on, then shoved her into the car.


    Quan Shaoqing watched Lu Xi¡¯s retreating figure, standing there with a cold presence, holding his service pistol aimed at him, ¡°If you dare touch her, I¡¯ll never forgive you.¡±


    ¡°That depends on whether you keep your promise.


    If I reach a safe place, I¡¯ll definitely let her go,¡± Lu Xi said as he positioned Gu Xiaoxi in the passenger seat and sat in the driver¡¯s seat.


    Throughout this, his gun was pointed at Gu Xiaoxi.


    From beginning to end, Gu Xiaoxi sat without moving, seemingly flashing through too many thoughts in her mind, causing some confusion.


    Lu Xi was kidnapping her, threatening Quan Shaoqing, and then fleeing?


    This all seemed logical, but why did she feel so sad?


    Once, they had spent a year together.


    She thought there was at least some affection between them, even if not that of a master and disciple; perhaps a little friendship.


    But the outcome...


    Hehe...


    ¡°Lu Xi, you¡¯ve hurt me!¡± Gu Xiaoxi turned her head, her deep gaze fixed on the man driving.


    His face was identical to the one in her memory, yet it suddenly felt so unfamiliar that it was frightening.


    ¡°I also know that I¡¯ve hurt your heart!


    Xiao Xi, you have two choices: come with me or from now on, we live in two separate worlds.


    Think it over for yourself.¡± Lu Xi had already put down his gun.


    At this moment, he was driving the car at breakneck speed.


    He wouldn¡¯t kill her, but if Quan Shaoqing refused to let him go, he would certainly hurt her.


    So, he neither hid his intentions nor offered explanations.


    He was an international assassin, infamous for his cold-blooded ruthlessness.


    There existed an unbridgeable distance between them and the military.


    If she stayed, a confrontation between them was ultimately inevitable.


    If she went with him, he would take her on a journey around the world, ensuring her complete safety.


    Gu Xiaoxi sat in the car, her hands cuffed behind her and wrists painfully chafed.


    Yet, a trace of mockery appeared at the corner of her mouth, ¡°Just a moment ago, I broke off ties with you!


    You abducted me, and I¡¯m not angry.¡±


    ¡°Stubborn!


    Even though you can¡¯t accept that your master could be such a person, I want to tell you this is the real Lu Xi.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi thought that if she hadn¡¯t met Quan Shaoqing, she might have chosen to go with Lu Xi.


    But now, she would not.


    She turned to look back at the car.


    ZO had been following them all along, and Quan Shaoqing¡¯s troops had not caught up.


    Perhaps he was the one who truly considered her safety.


    He preferred to let go of the person who wanted to kill him rather than let her get hurt.


    Gu Xiaoxi smiled faintly, turned her head to glance at Lu Xi, her eyes bright and shiny at first, then gradually turned deep and cold, ¡°Well then, goodbye!¡±


    As the car sped away, Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t hesitate to unlock the car door and leap out.


    Lu Xi was startled, the steering wheel slipped from his grip, and as he reached out to grab at anything, he realized that his palm was icy cold.


    Flashing before his eyes was her fleeting smile, and a sudden suffocation tightened in his chest.


    Perhaps he had hurt her, not just in heart.


    But also her dignity and pride.


    Once, she had admired him!


    Liked him!


    She had loved him as a master, as family.


    But when one day she realized that the thing she protected was nothing more than an illusion she had conjured...


    How could she accept that?


    Although Gu Xiaoxi used her Inner Strength and Qinggong, she still landed with a thud, her nose bruised and face swollen.


    She rolled over a dozen times on the ground before finally steadying herself.


    Struggling to sit up, she saw Quan Shaoqing¡¯s car stop close by, the man running towards her in panic.


    Gu Xiaoxi raised her head to glance at the vast night sky, suddenly feeling a sourness in her eyes.


    Did she do something wrong?


    Why were all the ones she liked, all the ones she cared about, leaving her one by one?


    ¡°Why did you fall out of the car?


    Are you hurt anywhere?¡± Quan Shaoqing nervously unlocked the handcuffs from her wrists and lifted her from the ground.


    Gu Xiaoxi pursed her lips, silent.


    Witnessing the injury on her forehead, Quan Shaoqing felt both distressed and angry, tempted to scold her with ¡°You deserve it.¡±


    Wondering whether she would ever again throw herself at just anyone.


    But as his gaze fell upon the teardrops on her eyelashes, all the words got stuck in his throat.

 Chapter 55 - 55 025 Drunk

    ?55: 025 Drunk 55: 025 Drunk Quan Shaoqing¡¯s car drove back to Jinxiu Garden, with Gu Xiaoxi remaining silent throughout the journey.


    It was not until she was sitting on the sofa in the living room, with Quan Shaoqing disinfecting the wound on her face with a cotton swab, that Gu Xiaoxi reacted and suddenly jumped up.


    ¡°Ouch!¡±


    ¡°You know it hurts!


    You never use your brain.


    If you dare to run off again next time, I¡¯ll let him take you away.¡± Quan Shaoqing, seeing her body all scraped up, was inexplicably infuriated.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s already frustrated heart was viciously stabbed by him once more.


    She snatched the disinfecting cotton swab from his hand, her eyes red with anger, and snapped, ¡°Do you find me troublesome too?


    You don¡¯t plan on keeping me either?¡±


    Indeed, she was very angry.


    Her father didn¡¯t want her, her mother was dead, and the person she thought closest to her had hurt her mercilessly.


    And now, Quan Shaoqing had barged into her world, turned her life upside down, and he too seemed to not want to keep her.


    Yes, she was very angry, very sad, and very frustrated!


    Quan Shaoqing saw the stubborn defiance in her eyes.


    She looked like she was about to cry but was holding it back with all her might, her tears welling up in her eyes, breaking his heart to see it.


    He had seen the arrogant and confident Gu Xiaoxi, the cold and cunning Gu Xiaoxi, and even the mischievous Gu Xiaoxi.


    But he had never seen her cry.


    A single reproachful remark from him was all it took to wound her heart.


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant,¡± Quan Shaoqing advanced toward her, extending his broad palm, cupping her head into his sturdy chest, and gave it a vigorous rub.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say I didn¡¯t want you.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi at once began to sob, her shoulders shaking as she smeared her tears and snot all over his chest.


    It took her a good while to calm her emotions.


    Her hands clung to Quan Shaoqing¡¯s shirt, not daring to lift her head.


    She knew she must look terrible at the moment.


    This was the first time, apart from her mother¡¯s death, that she had cried so bitterly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care.


    You can¡¯t shake me off now,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said firmly, gritting her teeth.


    ¡°Now, hurry up and treat the wound!¡± Quan Shaoqing touched her delicate cheek with his hand, speaking affectionately.


    He smiled, this was how a child should be, crying when they needed to, so adorable.


    In the middle of the night, Quan Shaoqing could not find Gu Xiaoxi anywhere upstairs or downstairs.


    Even the house servants didn¡¯t know where she had gone.


    Scared out of his wits, Quan Shaoqing thought she had run away from home.


    Frantically, he had his people go out in search, only for a servant to accidentally find her in the wine cellar of the basement.


    The temperature in the wine cellar was 22 degrees, much colder than outside.


    Quan Shaoqing hurriedly rushed in, only to see Gu Xiaoxi hugging a bottle of red wine, asleep on the sofa in the cellar reception area.


    He approached and sighed.


    It appeared that tonight, Lu Xi had truly hurt her.


    Quan Shaoqing went over, gently took the wine bottle from her arms, and lifted her from the sofa.


    However, he had not expected Gu Xiaoxi to be so light; holding her in his arms, she hardly weighed anything.


    At that moment, Gu Xiaoxi, in cute cartoon pajamas with short hair reaching her ears, exposed her lustrous earlobes.


    Her pretty cheeks were flushed with a charming red from drunkenness.


    In the basement, the gentle light spilled over her, making her whole being look as lazy as a cat.


    Because she had bathed, her body smelled sweet, mixed with a hint of alcohol, and she looked devoid of her girlish immaturity, appearing particularly bewitching.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s breath grew heavy as he looked at her neck, laid bare as she tilted her head back.


    Her skin, like fine porcelain, was silkier than milk.


    For a moment, he found himself unable to look away.


    Gu Xiaoxi, as if sensing someone holding her, instinctively opened her eyes a sliver; her brow furrowed.


    In a daze with her head feeling heavy, she only saw a pair of dark phoenix eyes, within which seemed to flicker flames.


    Those sexy thin lips were pursed, emitting a tender red.


    Gu Xiaoxi just thought him incredibly handsome and swallowed her saliva before launching herself at him with effort.


    Quan Shaoqing hadn¡¯t realized she had woken up.


    Caught off guard, he was pushed back by her counterattack and fell onto the sofa, tumbling into a heap with her.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s reaction was even more exaggerated; she rolled from the sofa onto the carpet, eyebrows tightly furrowed and grimacing in pain.


    Right then, her head was too foggy.


    Even if she tried hard to open her eyes, she could only manage a tiny sliver of a view, and her body refused to obey her commands, feeling light and floaty.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s panic pressed down on an odd sensation that flashed in the depths of his heart, as he looked at Gu Xiaoxi lying on the carpet and then at the empty wine bottles on the table.


    She had actually drunk two large bottles of red wine.


    His face darkened¡ªno wonder she was drunk.


    Thus, with a complicated heart, he bent down to pick her up again.


    But unexpectedly, Gu Xiaoxi, who was trying to turn over, caught him off guard and pushed him down onto the carpet.


    Her small frame toppled over him, and Gu Xiaoxi squinted her drunken eyes, glaring at Quan Shaoqing.


    The man¡¯s handsome features were exquisite and still exuded a sense of grandeur.


    Beneath his thick eyebrows, his eyes were like cold, deep pools, mysterious and profound.


    Below his prominent nose lay thin lips, which, whether pursed or curving into a smile, exuded a lethal allure.


    Gu Xiaoxi smiled slightly, swallowing saliva, feeling an overpowering attraction, for her drunken state made her speech slurred, ¡°Handsome guy, wanna hook up?¡±


    Pff!


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s whole body stiffened.


    Who could tell him.


    Wanna hook up?


    What did she take him for!


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi!¡±


    A deafening voice echoed in the basement.


    Quan Shaoqing was about to lose his temper when, the next second, Gu Xiaoxi lunged at him.


    Her soft lips landed unexpectedly on his face.


    He tensed as if electrocuted, his muscles tight, struggling to make even the slightest movement.


    Her eyes were intoxicated as she wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her head in his neck and shoulder.


    Her breath brushed over him, tickling and tantalizing.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s mind boomed, as if it were about to explode.


    His back was rigid, his throat tight, his mind blank.


    In an instant, something seemed to breach his inner defenses, overwhelming all his senses.


    He didn¡¯t even have time to think about what he was doing as he gripped her head with one hand and fiercely deepened the kiss.


    The dazed Gu Xiaoxi could only feel her breathing cut off as her lips were forcefully claimed.


    With lips and teeth colliding, she couldn¡¯t help but cry out in pain.


    This undoubtedly shattered the man¡¯s last shred of rationality.


    In the dimly lit basement.


    A deep kiss made their breathing grow heavy.


    ¡°Snap!¡±


    Just then, the sound of a wine bottle hitting the ground rang out sharply, bursting like thunder and startling them.


    The sound jolted Quan Shaoqing back to his senses as if he had been struck by lightning.


    He hastily pushed Gu Xiaoxi away and got up from the carpet.


    There, in front of him on the carpet, lay Gu Xiaoxi, eyes tightly shut, her long lashes fluttering like feathers.


    Her cheeks were flushed red, and she was breathing lightly, still completely drunk.


    Suddenly, his heart felt as if it had been struck by a hammer, heavy and uncomfortable, and at the same time, a sense of guilt spread at the bottom of his heart.

 Chapter 56 - 56 He gives her a weird feeling!

    ?56: He gives her a weird feeling!


    56: He gives her a weird feeling!


    Instantly, his heart felt as if it had been struck by a hammer, a stifling discomfort settling within, while a wave of guilt spread at the bottom of his heart.


    But if he thought about it carefully, wasn¡¯t it her who initiated this whole affair?


    It took Quan Shaoqing quite a while to come to his senses, slapping his forehead, wishing he could knock himself out.


    Gu Xiaoxi was drunk, unaware of anything.


    He, however, was not drunk.


    What had he done?


    Quan Shaoqing reflected for a long time in the basement.


    Seeing Gu Xiaoxi really asleep on the carpet, he carefully picked her up and headed to the room.


    All the way there, his movements were light, thankfully without waking her again.


    The next day


    The glaring sunlight poured into Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s bedroom.


    She sat up abruptly, wiping the sweat off her forehead.


    Damn!


    Another dream.


    And it was a damn wet dream this time.


    The man in the dream had a pair of cold, fierce eyes, a sturdy chest, and a sexy chin, but no matter how hard she tried, she just couldn¡¯t see his face clearly.


    Gu Xiaoxi shook her jet-black hair and got out of bed to brush her teeth and wash her face.


    Today she had to accompany Quan Shaoqing to attend a live drill.


    Although she had already experienced actual combat and really killed people, she had never witnessed an army in action.


    She was very much looking forward to observing.


    She quickly got ready, her military uniform neatly put on.


    After she descended the stairs, she saw Quan Shaoqing sitting at the dining table reading a newspaper, with an untouched breakfast on the table.


    Clearly, he was waiting for her to have breakfast together.


    ¡°Morning!¡± Gu Xiaoxi squinted, her smile radiant as a flower.


    ¡°Morning!¡± Quan Shaoqing instinctively lifted the newspaper higher, as if deliberately shielding himself from her, not wanting to see her.


    Behind the newspaper, the man¡¯s cold cheeks were suspiciously flushed, especially his thin lips¡ªso cold and distinct¡ªwere involuntarily pursed, causing his cheeks to tense up uncomfortably.


    He had to admit.


    At this moment, his feelings were in turmoil, and he didn¡¯t dare to look at Gu Xiaoxi.


    Last night¡¯s events, although unknown to her, had kept him up all night.


    Even brushing his teeth in the morning, he could still feel the breath she had left on his lips.


    Gu Xiaoxi sat at the dining table, raising her eyebrows at Quan Shaoqing and feeling that the atmosphere was a bit strange.


    She bit into her bread and suddenly reached out, snatching the newspaper from his hands, ¡°Did you get into a fight last night?


    Why are you covering your face; ashamed to be seen?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s hand was left empty, his eyes darkening as he raised his head to look at Gu Xiaoxi.


    As she ate the bread, white cream stuck to the corner of her rosy lips, adding a few more enticing elements to her delicate features.


    Especially the cream at the corner of her mouth, it made him involuntarily think of last night.


    ¡°Gulp,¡± he swallowed, his heart tickled by a feather, itching with an urge to kiss her again.


    Gu Xiaoxi blinked, licked the cream off her lips with her tongue, and seeing Quan Shaoqing swallow as if famished.


    She nodded knowingly, with a smile, ¡°You don¡¯t need to wait for me for breakfast.


    If you¡¯re hungry, you can eat first!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing pinched his thigh hard, stopping himself from wandering thoughts.


    ¡°Was I waiting for you?


    I was reading the newspaper,¡± Quan Shaoqing quickly said with a cold face, trying to cover up.


    His face darkened immediately and embarrassment quickly colored his cheeks.


    This damn girl, truly, wouldn¡¯t admit to her mischief.


    Last night, she wickedly lit a fire in his heart, leaving him all messed up.


    And her, after everything seemed as if nothing had happened, she was as pure as a blank sheet of paper.


    Especially when she got near.


    He had an instinctive physical reaction.


    Even when she licked her lips, he couldn¡¯t help but feel impulsive, his thoughts running wild.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at the suspicious blush on Quan Shaoqing¡¯s ears and pointed at him, interrogating, ¡°Did you do something bad last night?


    Look at you, with that guilty expression.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing suppressed the palpitations in his heart and glared at Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°It was you who did something bad!


    Now eat your breakfast quickly.


    We¡¯re leaving in ten minutes.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi eyed Quan Shaoqing doubtfully, then bit into her bread bite by bite, washing it down with some milk.


    During this time, Gu Xiaoxi always felt a pair of eyes watching her, but whenever she looked up, Quan Shaoqing sat there with a cool expression, revealing no special emotion.


    ¡°Are you done eating?


    If so, let¡¯s get going,¡± Quan Shaoqing felt the atmosphere in the dining room was too intimate.


    He couldn¡¯t stop watching Gu Xiaoxi, so he decided to skip breakfast altogether and stood up to leave with long strides.


    Watching his retreating figure, Gu Xiaoxi felt inexplicably strange.


    She quickly finished her breakfast, packed up a few things, and followed Quan Shaoqing out.


    The helicopter arrived at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s command center.


    Gu Xiaoxi had shown her face at the command center often, so naturally, everyone there recognized her.


    However, under Quan Shaoqing¡¯s instructions, the soldiers did an excellent job keeping things confidential and didn¡¯t spread any gossip about the relationship between Quan Shaoqing and Gu Xiaoxi.


    Quan Shaoqing drove himself, taking Gu Xiaoxi to Team A¡¯s operation camp.


    By then, everyone was ready to deploy.


    Quan Shaoqing personally took Gu Xiaoxi to watch the actual combat, partly to boost morale.


    Team A had about a hundred people in total.


    Since half of them had been dispatched for various tasks like undercover operations, there were fewer than fifty people left in the combat team.


    Gu Xiaoxi was delighted to see her junior, Jiang Shichi, among these men.


    Because they were nearing the battlefield, everyone was especially serious.


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t want to disturb them.


    After a six-hour flight, they arrived at a deep mountain forest.


    The border of the Southern Border Country.


    Over fifty people parachuted from the airplane to land.


    On the plane, Gu Xiaoxi ran excitedly towards a parachute on one side, her emotions high.


    She had always envied those who could strap on a parachute and look down at the earth beneath them.


    At this moment, her wish was finally about to come true.


    But before she could even touch the parachute, Quan Shaoqing grabbed her back.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t been trained.


    You can¡¯t operate by yourself.


    I¡¯ll take you skydiving!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s smile was uglier than crying.


    She looked back at Quan Shaoqing, blinking pitifully, ¡°But I don¡¯t want to go with you.


    I want to fly by myself.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing snorted coldly, and without a word, fastened his safety harness onto Gu Xiaoxi, then wrapped his arm around her waist and jumped off the plane.


    The howling wind was fierce by her ears, and as they plummeted rapidly, Gu Xiaoxi hugged his neck and roared in fright, ¡°Damn it, at least warn me before you jump!


    You scared me to death.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing felt the grip on his neck tighten, smiling satisfactorily, ¡°Scared now, are you?


    Weren¡¯t you just saying you wanted to fly by yourself?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi: ¡°...¡±


    What could she say?


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at Quan Shaoqing, noticing his mischievous smile curling up ever so slightly at the corners of his mouth, and she always felt there was something off about his expression today.


    He made her feel peculiar too!

 Chapter 57 - 57 027 Watching the battle

    ?57: 027 Watching the battle 57: 027 Watching the battle As Gu Xiaoxi steadied her mind and opened her eyes, she watched the Special Forces¡¯ A-team parachuting from the sky.


    She opened her surprised mouth wide because the scene could only be described as shocking.


    Fifty soldiers parachuted one after another, forming a long dragon from the side view.


    Over the next ten minutes, everyone divided into teams of ten and landed at five separate locations.


    They controlled their speed and power very well.


    In ten minutes, they quickly concealed their parachutes, then rapidly assembled and reached their designated territories, swiftly setting up ambushes.


    For A-team, this operation was routine.


    They executed an operation of this scale almost every week.


    Quan Shaoqing, bringing Gu Xiaoxi with him, landed and set up a concealed temporary command center at a commanding height.


    Of course, he generally wouldn¡¯t personally command such an operation, but since he brought Gu Xiaoxi along, he took on the role of temporary commander.


    According to Quan Shaoqing, the illegal entry this time involved not only human trafficking of more than thirty people but also a shipment of drugs coming from the Southern Border, weighing up to six hundred kilograms.


    Among the criminals, there were sixty people, including one undercover agent from their side.


    The criminals were extremely cunning.


    The trafficked people were not only a source of profit but could also serve as hostages for the enemy military, which undoubtedly increased the difficulty of the operation.


    Gu Xiaoxi followed Quan Shaoqing closely, blending in like an invisible presence, listening to his command of the operations.


    At the command center, Quan Shaoqing sat in front of five team leaders.


    The operation was large-scale this time, requiring the protection of their own people while rescuing thirty women.


    According to the undercover agent¡¯s report, they would start crossing the border at nine o¡¯clock in the evening, with people inside the border to receive them two kilometers from the command post.


    After some deployment.


    The final plan was set; the operation would take place at a junction between two forces.


    With a strategy of internal and external cooperation, they would first rescue the hostages and then capture all the criminals and seize the drugs.


    Thereafter, Quan Shaoqing began deployment, from communication equipment to drone reconnaissance, everything was put in place, and they lay in wait in the deep mountains and forests for the evening to arrive.


    It was the first time Gu Xiaoxi witnessed the advantages of teamwork.


    Every one of them, every glance, even every action was closely coordinated.


    At this moment, Gu Xiaoxi deeply understood how easy it was to train a strong individual, but to train a group of elites who work in perfect unison was not easy at all.


    Here she profoundly realized how significant a team is to a force!


    As night approached eight o¡¯clock, the forest was pitch-black, and one could not see their hand in front of their face.


    The weather was gloomy, and it looked like it might rain.


    Gu Xiaoxi sat concealed under a small grove of trees, holding binoculars and occasionally glancing towards the distant crossroads.


    So far, there was not the slightest movement there.


    Quan Shaoqing, wearing infrared goggles, walked up to Gu Xiaoxi and checked on the slightly nervous girl.


    Her eyes shimmered in the dark like a wolf¡¯s, reflecting a sharp light.


    Dressed in dark green military uniform, she looked as if it was tailored for her, prideful and extraordinary in bearing.


    ¡°I want to join in the operation too!¡± Gu Xiaoxi turned her head to look at Quan Shaoqing.


    Even though they were close, she could only see his vague outline, unable to make out his expression.


    ¡°No,¡± Quan Shaoqing refused without hesitation, ¡°This is a vitally important rescue mission.


    A slight misstep could harm the innocent and potentially put our soldiers at risk.


    Stay put.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi pouted, ¡°You underestimate my abilities!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s that you haven¡¯t actually undergone military training.


    New recruit training is just basic military competency.


    A real combat team goes through multiple selections to choose the elite of the elite, the kings among kings.


    Each one of them can hold their own and are the nation¡¯s most valuable resources.¡± As Quan Shaoqing spoke, he pressed down on Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s shoulder, signaling her to stay hidden.


    At the same time, he received a report from the squad.


    ¡°Calling headquarters!


    Target spotted.


    Calling headquarters...¡±


    ¡°Headquarters received!


    Report the target location...¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re about 4.9 kilometers away from the target.¡±


    ¡°Report, Squad 4 is in position.


    The enemy¡¯s response team has arrived with five transport vehicles, totaling twelve men.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing picked up the infrared binoculars and spotted a group of up to a hundred people wading through a forest stream.


    On the other side, the responding vehicles had also arrived, and the enemy flashed their lights, exchanging secret signals.


    His tone became unavoidably grave, ¡°Action!


    Watch for the people with white scarves around their necks, they are our own.¡±


    His voice was hoarse and powerful, as if it had the ability to penetrate; every word struck the heart, stirring up tumultuous waves.


    Gu Xiaoxi, watching Quan Shaoqing¡¯s tall figure vanish into the dark night, suddenly felt a rush of hot blood coursing through her veins.


    A sense of pride, known as military honor, spread out from her heart.


    She was even somewhat impatient to watch everyone combat.


    She snatched the binoculars from Quan Shaoqing¡¯s hands and looked into the distance.


    At that moment, the sound of gunfire erupted in the quiet forest.


    Through the binoculars, she watched the line of people coming across the stream.


    About thirty young girls, around seventeen or eighteen years old, were dressed in uniform white robes, their faces beautiful and blooming like flowers.


    However, each one of them had shackles on their hands and feet, surrounded by a group of burly men who were escorting them forward.


    At the same time, half of the men escorting the hostages were carrying bulky backpacks, which clearly seemed very heavy and no doubt contained drugs.


    Gu Xiaoxi squinted her eyes fiercely, watching the distance.


    When the action started, and the gunshot sounded, bullets from all directions enveloped the escorting men.


    The thirty men escorting the hostages were killed instantly.


    The men following behind with the drugs, realizing the situation was dire, began to flee into the forest with their packs.


    They reacted very quickly, moving with the agility of tigers.


    At the same time, the combat force, even swifter, rose from their ambush points and coordinated seamlessly to encircle the fleeing men.


    Gu Xiaoxi was thoroughly impressed.


    The Special Forces communicated almost without speaking, using just hand signals with their infrared combat goggles, and cooperated flawlessly.


    Meanwhile, on the other battlefield, a convoy of five vehicles, seemingly there to rendezvous with the drug traffickers and transport the drugs, was present.


    The leader, upon hearing the gunfire, had already sensed something was wrong and, commanding his men, floored the accelerator to flee.


    Ten Special Forces soldiers, pouncing through the forest like agile leopards, managed to keep pace with the speed of the vehicles and raised their guns to shoot at the enemy¡¯s tires.


    When the first vehicle¡¯s tire burst, causing the vehicle to skid and become immobile, it blocked the path for the subsequent vehicles, forcing all the criminals to get out and shoot back.


    But they were exposed, whereas the Special Forces were concealed in the forest, and it was nighttime.


    Even if the enemy had sharpshooters, they were caught completely off guard.


    The battle was indeed beautifully fought.


    From beginning to end, the enemy seemed to be in a daze, not fully reacting.


    By the time they figured out what was happening, the war was almost over.


    The criminals had never expected to be separated and ambushed from both sides before the actual handover could take place.


    The operation lasted a total of twenty minutes.


    Thirty-two criminals were killed, forty-four were apprehended.


    Gu Xiaoxi thought the war should be over by now.


    But at that moment, Quan Shaoqing suddenly received a report, ¡°Calling command center, this is Team A1.


    We haven¡¯t found our own people, and all the intercepted drugs are fake.¡±

 Chapter 58 - 58 028 Participating in Battle 1

    ?58: 028 Participating in Battle 1 58: 028 Participating in Battle 1 On hearing this, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eyes suddenly widened as she turned to look at Quan Shaoqing.


    The man¡¯s back trembled for a moment, and his expression turned grave.


    ¡°Call team 2, team 3, team 4, report your status!¡±


    At the same time, the reports from A2, A3, and A4 were identical.


    ¡°A5, report your status!¡± Quan Shaoqing calmed down and took a deep breath.


    A5 had previously been dispatched by him to the front, lying in ambush at the entrance where the enemy was expected to enter, just in case.


    ¡°Report!


    Under the three big banyan trees, enemy movements spotted, around thirty individuals with packs, awaiting orders from the superior officer!¡± A5 team leader¡¯s voice rang out clearly.


    Quan Shaoqing gave a cold snort!


    His silhouette appeared even more resolute.


    Gu Xiaoxi gasped, her heart shocked!


    The enemy indeed should not be underestimated; they had used the first group as bait to set a trap for them.


    Quan Shaoqing, almost without hesitation, ordered, ¡°Observe whether the undercover agent with the white scarf is safe; we¡¯re heading over immediately.


    We¡¯ll arrive in about ten minutes!


    Keep watch on the enemy¡¯s movements.


    If the undercover agent is exposed, move out to intercept them immediately.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi lifted her eyes, looking towards the distance, the boundless night suddenly weighing heavy on her heart.


    The enemy was indeed cunning, willing to sacrifice thirty of their own just to test them out.


    War is indeed cruel!


    Quan Shaoqing led his team towards the three big banyan trees.


    Gu Xiaoxi silently followed, careful not to disturb him during this time.


    After ten minutes of running three kilometers, according to Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s observations, upon reaching their destination, the entire special forces team was still cool and composed, their hearts steady, not even their breathing was disordered.


    One could not help but admire them; truly worthy of being the vanguard, they were really strong.


    Quan Shaoqing led everyone to hide on a small hillock when the voice of A5¡¯s team leader came again: ¡°Report!


    The undercover agent has been attacked and is injured!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing immediately grabbed his binoculars and looked into the distance.


    Gu Xiaoxi also picked up binoculars to look.


    She saw the undercover agent severely injured, with blood streaming from the head, half the face stained red, one eye was already bruised, flesh blurred, especially the limbs having received heavy blows, the person was at death¡¯s door, looking very badly wounded.


    To Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s surprise, the undercover agent, Number Seventeen, turned out to be a woman.


    Her long black hair hung behind her head, and from her figure, she truly seemed to be a beauty, only now her face was unrecognizable.


    Quan Shaoqing narrowed his eyes fiercely, ¡°A5, surround them.


    A1, A2, A3, A4, quietly find your positions; I want them all captured.¡±


    As Quan Shaoqing finished speaking, A5 turned on the flashlight, and everyone quickly moved forward, confronting the enemy leaders at a distance of thirty meters.


    ¡°Release our person!¡± shouted the A5 team leader angrily.


    The enemies were momentarily panicked, but they quickly regained composure, each raising their weapons to confront A5.


    ¡°Release her?


    Hahaha!


    How could that be possible?¡± sneered the leader of the enemies, pointing behind him, ¡°The land behind me no longer falls under your jurisdiction!


    As long as I leave this place, you can¡¯t do anything to me.


    Even if I kill her, what can you do?¡±


    Unsatisfied with his own words, he brandished the knife in his hand fiercely, ¡°I¡¯m not just going to kill her, but I¡¯m going to do it right before your eyes, in your face.¡±


    The leader of the enemies was named Zhong Si, one of the most vigorous subordinates of a major drug lord.


    Quan Shaoqing narrowed his eyes, a chill flickering in them as he gripped his gun tightly, ¡°Release my person!¡±


    Zhong Si immediately raised his head, as if he heard some joke, ¡°Let him go?


    Sure, kneel down and beg me!¡±


    As his words fell, those dressed in military uniforms collectively gripped their sidearms, each with eyes red with rage, as a vast and righteous qi burst forth.


    Clearly, everyone could not tolerate such an insult.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s dark eyes flashed with a sharp edge, yet his expression remained unchanged as he said, ¡°You want me to kneel to you!


    That depends on whether you have the ability to make me!¡±


    ¡°Still playing tough at this point!¡± Zhong Si gripped the knife in his hand, aiming it at Number Seventeen, ¡°I¡¯ll tell you.


    Now, your man is in my hands.


    Whether I release him or kill him, that decision is mine to make.


    It seems you all don¡¯t really love your comrades as much as you claim.¡±


    With that, Zhong Si stomped on Number Seventeen¡¯s already injured thigh.


    Even in the darkness, Gu Xiaoxi could clearly see blood seeping out from his knee.


    At this moment, Number Seventeen¡¯s mouth was bound with a cloth strip, unable to speak, only able to emit muffled cries of pain.


    Gu Xiaoxi clenched her fists, trembling with anger.


    Damn it!


    These people are too arrogant.


    Because the three banyan trees marked the national border line.


    They had to take them down under those trees.


    Therefore, the team needed time to deploy, and at this moment, what they had to do was buy time, and then treat Number Seventeen¡¯s injuries.


    Quan Shaoqing looked at the injured Number Seventeen, who was truly hanging on by a thread.


    If they couldn¡¯t stop the bleeding in time, even if she was saved, she wouldn¡¯t live for much longer.


    ¡°Let me go!¡± Gu Xiaoxi stepped forward and stood behind Quan Shaoqing, saying, ¡°I don¡¯t need a weapon to save someone, so I will go and save Number Seventeen.¡±


    ¡°No way!


    You haven¡¯t received any...¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to argue!


    A group of men like you will inevitably not lower their guard.


    Right now, we need time to save Number Seventeen.


    Superior officer, I believe in your deployment and everyone¡¯s capabilities.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s gaze was firm as she looked at Quan Shaoqing, her tone exceptionally serious, ¡°We don¡¯t have much time.


    Please trust me.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s gaze intently sized up Gu Xiaoxi.


    In the black of night, her posture was upright, her tone resolute.


    He had never seen such a severe Gu Xiaoxi before, and she was somehow convincing beyond control!


    ¡°Hahaha!


    What a bunch of cowards,¡± mocked Zhong Si¡¯s contemptuous voice once more.


    The atmosphere suddenly became tense to the point of snapping.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi!


    Stay safe!¡± Quan Shaoqing patted her shoulder as he raised his head to look at Zhong Si, waves of fury in his eyes.


    Gu Xiaoxi formally gave Quan Shaoqing a military salute, her demeanor cold and proud, her spirit indomitable.


    ¡°Zhong Si, I can agree to one condition of yours, but you must allow my people to treat the injured,¡± said Quan Shaoqing as he patted Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s shoulder, signaling for her to stay calm.


    His dark eyes glimmered with a cold light, staring at Zhong Si.


    Zhong Si had been waiting for these words from Quan Shaoqing.


    He stepped forward boldly, positioning himself at the forefront of the team, laughing coldly, ¡°I¡¯ve heard that the female soldiers under your command are quite good-looking.


    Deliver one to me as a wife, and I will release this half-dead man.¡±


    This was a blatant humiliation.


    Zhong Si knew that any deal with Quan Shaoqing at this point was futile.


    What he wanted was to vent his anger.


    Although he still held the drugs, his subordinates in the earlier encounter had either died or been captured.


    He wanted to take revenge today.


    Not just revenge, but to thoroughly humiliate them.

 Chapter 59 - 59 029 Participation in War 2 Second Update

    ?59: 029 Participation in War 2 (Second Update) 59: 029 Participation in War 2 (Second Update) Zhong Si wanted to vent his anger.


    Although he still had the drugs, his subordinates either died or were captured in the previous encounter.


    He was determined to take revenge today.


    Not only that, but he also wanted to humiliate them severely.


    Quan Shaoqing kept his composure as he listened to the reports coming through the earpiece, ¡°Reporting, Team A1 is ready.


    Team A2 is ready, Team A3 is in preparation.


    Team A4 has reached the destination and is getting ready immediately!¡±


    Clearly, the teams were not yet ready.


    Quan Shaoqing patted Gu Xiaoxi on the shoulder.


    Although he was reluctant to let her take the risk, as a soldier facing war, there was no room for compassion.


    If you couldn¡¯t let go from the start, you had already lost.


    Number Seventeen had dedicated her life for justice and repaid the country with her most radiant years.


    She was a comrade to all, and he had to rescue her!


    ¡°Commander, I want to inspect the beauty you¡¯ve sent over!¡± Zhong Si blurted out arrogantly.


    Gu Xiaoxi snorted coldly, stepped forward, and took off her military cap, revealing her delicate features.


    Standing in front of everyone, she removed her military uniform, beneath which was a white tank top that showcased her naturally perfect figure.


    Zhong Si¡¯s eyes narrowed momentarily, a hint of amazement flashed in them, ¡°Beautiful, now you can come over.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing clenched the gun in his hand, staring at Zhong Si, the veins on the back of his hands bulging, wishing he could blow his head off with a single shot.


    ¡°Send a medic with her to treat Number Seventeen,¡± Quan Shaoqing suppressed the fury in his heart and commanded the people behind him.


    He would deal with that bastard later.


    War was a test of one¡¯s psychological strength.


    Gu Xiaoxi led the way with the medic following closely.


    They quickly covered the fifty meters to the enemy camp.


    In front of Zhong Si, Gu Xiaoxi stood three meters away, arms crossed, looking at the man with a cold expression, ¡°I¡¯m here.


    But first, I must see the wounded receive treatment.¡±


    Zhong Si sneered, surprised by Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s calm and could not help but admire her; not only were Quan Shaoqing¡¯s men elite, but the women were not the least bit weak.


    He waved his hand, signaling his men to back off, allowing Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s brought medic to treat Number Seventeen.


    The medic stepped forward and started to swiftly stop Number Seventeen¡¯s bleeding.


    At the same time, he removed the cloth from Number Seventeen¡¯s mouth, only to hear Number Seventeen say weakly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, it was my exposure that compromised everyone.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t talk, conserve your strength.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at the exchange between the two, relieved that Number Seventeen could still speak, indicating that she could still be saved.


    ¡°Now she¡¯s been rescued.


    Beautiful lady, isn¡¯t it time you came into my arms?¡± Zhong Si said, prompting laughter from the men behind him, filled with mockery and malevolence.


    Gu Xiaoxi slightly smiled, crossed her arms, and feigned a frightened appearance, but the look in her eyes held no fear, and even a hint of murderous intent surfaced.


    However, the night was too dark, and with her back to the light, the opposition failed to notice.


    Zhong Si confirmed repeatedly that Gu Xiaoxi was unarmed.


    He walked up to her with a grin, from afar, he could smell the enticing fragrance wafting from the young woman.


    In an instant, Zhong Si felt his mouth go dry and his tongue parched.


    He had not anticipated that at this final moment, a beauty would fall into his hands.


    If he could have her right here in front of her own people...


    The thought of such humiliation was more satisfying than killing them all!


    Zhong Si¡¯s claw had just reached out towards Gu Xiaoxi when the next second, he felt a sharp pain between his legs, and his center of balance gave way.


    Before he could react, Gu Xiaoxi had already handcuffed his arms behind his back.


    And Gu Xiaoxi, slightly bending forward, forcefully lifted one leg and planted it heavily on his back, forcing him to kneel with his knees on the ground and his head pressed against the earth.


    Zhong Si¡¯s subordinates immediately raised their guns, all aiming at Gu Xiaoxi.


    A war was on the verge of breaking out.


    But upon hearing Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s words, everyone was stunned as if they had been struck by lightning, nearly collapsing on the spot.


    ¡°Uncle, if you want to be an old bull eating tender grass, you need a good set of teeth.


    With several of your incisors already gone, you¡¯d better be content munching the earth!¡± Gu Xiaoxi spoke with icy defiance, grabbing Zhong Si¡¯s collar, and looked up scanning his subordinates with a sweeping glare.


    ¡°Everyone stand still and don¡¯t move a muscle, or I will immediately relocate his head.¡±


    With a flick of her hand, the four men standing in front of her fell to the ground, dead.


    In that instant, no one could clearly see what weapon she had used.


    Zhong Si¡¯s subordinates were shocked and on high alert, staring at Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Release our boss.


    You think I¡¯m afraid to shoot, you bitch?¡±


    ¡°Then shoot!


    Let¡¯s see who¡¯s faster, your gun or my hand,¡± Gu Xiaoxi replied coolly, glancing at the four men lying dead on the ground and smiled coldly, ¡°I like to challenge myself...


    How about we see who¡¯s quicker?¡±


    Her tone was flippant, betraying no hint of nervousness.


    Her composure alone was enough to unsettle everyone.


    Zhong Si¡¯s subordinates exchanged looks, indecisive.


    Zhong Si found himself buried in the dirt, having been kicked in the groin by Gu Xiaoxi a moment earlier and punched in the incisors as well.


    He was still numb from the pain all over his body and tasted blood in his mouth, struggling to breathe.


    As he came to his senses, shocked by Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s swift action, he also heard her arrogant and cold words, and hurriedly restrained his men: ¡°Don¡¯t act rashly.


    Let¡¯s negotiate!¡±


    He hadn¡¯t expected Gu Xiaoxi to subdue him with a move, then kill his men without a change in her expression.


    Just that courage alone was not something everyone had.


    ¡°Negotiate!


    Weren¡¯t you acting all tough just before?¡± Gu Xiaoxi scoffed, pressing her foot against Zhong Si¡¯s back and gradually increasing the force, ¡°Now kneel here and apologize to my comrades!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi punched down without hesitation, striking the man in the spine.


    She used her inner strength, controlling the force so well that it caused piercing numbness throughout Zhong Si¡¯s body but stopped short of killing him.


    This was the best way to prevent any counterattack, and it temporarily kept his subordinates in check.


    At the same time, Quan Shaoqing received a report that the team was ready, and immediately ordered, ¡°Prepare to shoot!


    Leave Zhong Si alive!¡±


    In the meantime, Zhong Si¡¯s subordinates were all focused on the situation between Gu Xiaoxi and Zhong Si.


    Surprised by the sudden attack, they hadn¡¯t reacted in time.


    Undoubtedly, it was all over within a breath ¨C shot dead without any chance of resistance.


    When a whiff of blood carried by the mountain wind entered the jungle, everyone breathed a sigh of relief.


    Quan Shaoqing led his team, moving quickly towards the national border.


    Gu Xiaoxi and Quan Shaoqing didn¡¯t kill Zhong Si on the spot, because he was meant to be brought to military court, hoping to extract more useful information from him.


    Gu Xiaoxi waved to Quan Shaoqing, showing a victorious smile.


    From a distance, Quan Shaoqing finally relaxed and returned the smile to Gu Xiaoxi.


    At the same time, he formed a new regard for her skills.


    Although others hadn¡¯t clearly seen the weapon she used to kill, he saw it very clearly.


    It was only a few ordinary leaves that could sever someone¡¯s throat, indicating her inner strength was deeper than he had imagined.


    Gu Xiaoxi closed her eyes in satisfaction, feeling honored.


    She turned and hurried over to Number Seventeen, crouching down to look at the woman¡¯s blood-stained face, ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°I am!


    Thank you, you are very brave,¡± Number Seventeen said, despite her weak condition, bestowing an admiring look on Gu Xiaoxi.


    She felt Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s performance deserved recognition, no matter what.


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you¡¯re fine!¡± Gu Xiaoxi smiled at her, ¡°Hang in there!


    We will bring you back.¡±


    Some people you just glance at in a crowd and remember for a lifetime; others might be by your side for your whole life and still not find a place in your heart.


    And Number Seventeen was the woman whom Gu Xiaoxi laid eyes on once, yet remembered for a lifetime!


    What followed became an inspiring start to her military career.


    From then on, she would forge her own path of passion in the army.


    Just as Quan Shaoqing was heading towards Gu Xiaoxi, as the medic was treating Number Seventeen, in the instant Gu Xiaoxi returned a smile to Number Seventeen.


    A red dot suddenly appeared on Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s head, unnoticed by everyone.


    Number Seventeen, with the only functioning eye she had left, swiftly scanned the distant woods; it was the infrared light of a sniper rifle in the night aiming for its target.


    Without a moment¡¯s hesitation, she used all her strength to throw herself onto Gu Xiaoxi, using her battered chest to shield Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s head.

 Chapter 60 - 60 030 The Beginning of a Passionate Journey

    ?60: 030 The Beginning of a Passionate Journey 60: 030 The Beginning of a Passionate Journey She didn¡¯t hesitate at all and used all her strength to throw herself on top of Gu Xiaoxi, shielding his head with her scar-covered chest.


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    A gunshot shattered the brief joy of victory.


    Another gunshot sounded at the same time.


    The captain of Team A1 quickly located the sniper¡¯s hiding spot in the distant forest after the gunshot and began to counterattack.


    Quan Shaoqing was petrified with fear; he hardly had time to worry about Zhong Si, and sprinted towards Gu Xiaoxi with two steps.


    At that moment, Number Seventeen was tightly holding Gu Xiaoxi.


    Her already scar-laden body was shielding him.


    Gu Xiaoxi only felt a darkness come over her sight, as something scorching flowed down her neck, seeping into her clothes and wetting her vest.


    The nauseating scent of blood hovered at her nose, and a sense of death pervaded her from head to toe.


    By the time she realized what was happening, the combat medic, with a face full of horror, picked up Number Seventeen.


    Quan Shaoqing also rushed over and embraced Gu Xiaoxi tightly, ¡°Xiao Xi, how are you, are you all right!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi, in a panic, grabbed Quan Shaoqing¡¯s wrist; her dark, large eyes quickly reddened.


    She was fine, but Number Seventeen...


    She stared with swollen, rabbit-like red eyes as Number Seventeen spat blood in large mouthfuls.


    With the flashlight¡¯s bright white light, her lips were already deathly pale, and the breath of life was getting weaker and weaker.


    The combat medic wanted to give her emergency treatment, but she refused.


    You could see Number Seventeen lift her lips and with the one eye that she could still open, she looked at Gu Xiaoxi.


    Even though her face was unrecognizable, that eye was incredibly bright, like the moon in a dark night, shedding brilliant light.


    ¡°Girl!¡± Number Seventeen called out to her.


    Gu Xiaoxi rushed forward and grabbed her hand, tears flowing like a dam burst, ¡°Sister, don¡¯t die.¡±


    Number Seventeen, however, smiled, her gaze steadfastly fixed on Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°You did good, and I really like you.


    So, no crying!


    Sister isn¡¯t going to die!


    As long as the army exists...


    the military soul is unyielding!...


    I¡¯ll spread my enthusiasm on the land of the motherland, bury my body in the paradise of martyrs...


    I¡¯m honored!...¡±


    Number Seventeen, already barely breathing, clenched her teeth to deliver every word with passion and strength.


    To everyone listening, it was like a wildfire that quickly ignited their fighting spirit.


    ¡°No!


    Somebody save her, please!


    Please save her,¡± Gu Xiaoxi pleaded frantically, pulling the nearby combat medic.


    The combat medic, helpless, shook his head at Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°A shot through the heart!


    Along with the excessive blood loss already...¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi felt her hands trembling uncontrollably, tears unstoppable.


    They say that the strong do not cry!


    But at this moment, how could she hold back.


    Please forgive her; she¡¯s still just a new recruit, just an eighteen-year-old girl...


    Let her cry this out!


    Number Seventeen trembled her hand, mustering her last bit of strength to pull out a badge from her chest.


    It was the supreme honor of a special forces soldier, engraved with the number seventeen.


    A moment later, Number Seventeen looked at Gu Xiaoxi with a blurred gaze, placing the object in her hands, her breath growing fainter, ¡°This is for you...


    as a token of our acquaintance!


    I hope you can carry on my dream and pass it on.


    Little girl, I believe in you.


    Keep it up!¡±


    The next moment, Number Seventeen¡¯s arm fell onto the grass, and the atmosphere became so quiet that even the sound of the mountain wind rustling the leaves was clearly audible.


    Everyone uncovered their heads in a collective salute.


    Gu Xiaoxi reached out to hold Number Seventeen, closed her eyes, feeling her body gradually grow cold, her heart as if churned by a machine, unendurably afflicted.


    On the battlefield, life is so fragile, and yet so magnificent.


    She didn¡¯t even know Number Seventeen¡¯s name!


    Didn¡¯t know what she looked like!


    They had barely even met once!


    And yet, she had paid the price of her life for her!


    She had spilled her blood on the motherland¡¯s soil, passed her belief to her!


    Was she worthy of Number Seventeen¡¯s trust?


    And how heavy this mission was!


    Quan Shaoqing looked at Number Seventeen, his eyes full of ineffable pain.


    War always comes with sacrifice, and even though he had been through a lot, at this moment, he was moved.


    The soldiers he led were all outstanding!


    After a while, he reached out to pat Gu Xiaoxi on the shoulder, took her hand, and pulled her up from the ground.


    He addressed the others, ¡°Clean up the battlefield quickly.


    Let¡¯s head back!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi let Quan Shaoqing pull her along, gradually moving away from Number Seventeen.


    She clenched the badge in her palm tightly, her eyes becoming even more resolute at this moment.


    She would carry on Number Seventeen¡¯s belief, work hard, and become a true iron-blooded soldier who would protect and serve the country.


    The night wind gently blew, Wu An and Jiang Shichi, who had been lying with a sniper rifle at the ready in the forest, both revealed shocked expressions.


    ¡°Number 100!


    It seems like your junior sister¡¯s skills might be stronger than yours!¡± Wu An looked at him doubtfully, ¡°Aren¡¯t you from the same master?¡±


    Jiang Shichi instantly felt like his heart was hit!


    ¡°Damn!


    Now I finally understand why the master is called Liu Yishou.¡±


    He certainly taught Gu Xiaoxi something he didn¡¯t teach him!


    Liu Yishou, keeping a trick up his sleeve!


    (The baby cried out ¡°waah!¡±) He must have met a fake master!


    Wu An, looking at Jiang Shichi¡¯s inner turmoil, patted him on the shoulder, comforting him, ¡°It shows.


    You¡¯re definitely a fake disciple...


    Let¡¯s go!


    The boss ordered us to clean up the battlefield.


    This time the drugs must be real.


    And that Zhong Si, I really want to kick him a couple of times.¡±


    Jiang Shichi looked up at Wu An in agony, ¡°Can you shut up for a bit?


    Once this is over, I need to have a good talk with my junior sister!¡±

 Chapter 61 - 61 031 Return to Team

    ?61: 031 Return to Team 61: 031 Return to Team On the way back, Gu Xiaoxi held the badge tightly in her hand.


    ...


    The next day


    Martyrs¡¯ Park!


    For the first time, Gu Xiaoxi saw the true face of Number Seventeen.


    The color photo on the tombstone depicted a beautiful woman, at the age of twenty-eight, the most beautiful time for a woman.


    She hadn¡¯t even married before she bade farewell to her white-haired, elderly parents.


    Standing in front of Number Seventeen¡¯s parents, Gu Xiaoxi bowed deeply to them.


    Both elderly people had been soldiers, and their daughter was their lifelong pride.


    Though dead, her honor remained!


    ¡°Girl, you shouldn¡¯t feel burdened.


    On the battlefield, comrades trust each other, it¡¯s a kind of trust, a kind of fellowship, so my daughter would definitely be proud!


    We are proud of her too!¡± Number Seventeen¡¯s old father patted Gu Xiaoxi on the shoulder.


    Despite his grief at losing his child, he understood better than anyone that if there were no sacrifices, there would be no war.


    Gu Xiaoxi just felt a heavy discomfort in her heart.


    She didn¡¯t say a word on the way back.


    Quan Shaoqing personally escorted her to the gate of the new recruits camp.


    Gu Xiaoxi, with her bag on her back, stood in front of Quan Shaoqing.


    It seemed that she hadn¡¯t yet moved on from the matter of leaving Number Seventeen.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, this is a quality that all soldiers must possess, taking a bullet for every comrade.


    Your skills are not bad, but you must strengthen your training; your psychological and military qualities are still not up to the mark.


    Gu Xiaoxi, can you become the next Number Seventeen?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s dark eyes shone with a hint of determination.


    She raised her head, puffed out her chest, pulled in her stomach, and gave Quan Shaoqing a military salute.


    Everything that needed to be said was conveyed without words.


    She would not only become Number Seventeen, but she would also become stronger!


    Quan Shaoqing reached out to pinch Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s cheek, pulled her head into his embrace, and patted the back of her head, ¡°Go!


    You will be a good soldier!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi gave him a slight smile, held her chin high, and looked at Quan Shaoqing, ¡°You don¡¯t need to tell me that!¡±


    With those words, she strode towards the military camp.


    Watching her figure gradually recede into the distance, Quan Shaoqing felt a deep reluctance in his heart.


    Even he didn¡¯t know when he had started caring so much about her.


    Not until Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s figure had completely vanished from sight did Lin Mi, looking at the serious expression on Quan Shaoqing¡¯s face, curiously remark, ¡°Superior officer!


    You really care a lot about Miss Gu!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing turned his head and glanced at Lin Mi, ¡°Do I?¡±


    After thinking about it, he said in a low voice, ¡°I think so too!¡±


    Lin Mi almost choked on his own saliva, ¡°Superior officer, you¡¯d better leave quickly!


    And on the way, stop by the family home to heed the old lady¡¯s arrangement, go on a matchmaking visit.


    Otherwise, in the future, you will definitely regret letting Gu Xiaoxi join the army!¡±


    Do you wish for someone you love to take risks?


    Lin Mi¡¯s words carried an ulterior meaning.


    Quan Shaoqing didn¡¯t understand and glanced at Lin Mi, ¡°What does whether I go matchmaking or not have to do with Gu Xiaoxi joining the army?¡±


    ¡°...¡± Lin Mi fell silent.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s affection for Gu Xiaoxi had already exceeded what was normal.


    Usually, why would there be such a good relationship between two people with no blood ties?


    Aside from kinship, there¡¯s only love and friendship.


    Can there be pure friendship between a man and a woman?


    Especially for two people who are together morning and night, who share happiness, who share troubles, who share laughter...


    He would bet that familiarity breeds affection, and it was just a matter of time.


    It¡¯s just a question of who falls for whom first!


    ¡°What are you daydreaming about?


    Get moving!


    We have an important seminar this afternoon,¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s words brought Lin Mi back to reality.


    Inside the luxurious military vehicle, Quan Shaoqing took out his laptop to work on the latest combat discussion materials.


    He was instantly in work mode.


    Lin Mi started the car, glanced through the rearview mirror at the gate of the new recruits camp, and couldn¡¯t help worrying about Gu Xiaoxi!


    The gap between her and Quan Shaoqing was more than just vast; even with outstanding abilities, the highest rank she could achieve within three years was Lieutenant.


    A Lieutenant could barely qualify to guard the door at his command center.


    To surpass Quan Shaoqing, she reckoned it would take another lifetime.


    Gu Xiaoxi, with her backpack on, returned to the barracks of the new recruits.


    By now, everyone had gone off to train, and to her surprise, it was already eleven o¡¯clock.


    She figured everyone would be back soon for lunch, so she didn¡¯t hurry to join them.


    Gu Xiaoxi tidied up the stuff in her bag and then, holding a very exquisite box, headed toward the kitchen staff.


    She had gotten very familiar with the kitchen crew lately.


    So before leaving, she casually took two bottles of red wine from Quan Shaoqing¡¯s cellar.


    There was no helping it.


    His basement housed such a huge wine cellar, with more than a dozen racks taller than her, laden with red wine.


    She almost thought it was a wine storage warehouse.


    Of course, she didn¡¯t know that she had the incredible luck of inadvertently picking a couple of bottles worth over a million from Quan Shaoqing¡¯s collection.


    Fearful of repeating the embarrassing incident from last time, Gu Xiaoxi removed the labels from the wine bottles before entering the kitchen area.


    The kitchen was bustling, clearly in preparation for lunch.


    As Gu Xiaoxi entered, Zhang Yi spotted her immediately, ¡°I heard you hurt your foot, is it better now?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi greeted everyone with a beaming smile, and said to Zhang Yi, ¡°It¡¯s better.


    I¡¯ve brought back two bottles of wine for everyone.


    Remember to hide them and enjoy!¡±


    Seeing the kitchen staff busy, Gu Xiaoxi placed the box in a corner of the kitchen, flashed everyone a smile, ¡°I¡¯m off to training.


    Keep up the good work!¡±


    Zhang Yi, busy cooking, smiled to himself, not expecting this girl to be so considerate.


    They hadn¡¯t had the chance to visit her while she was recovering, and yet she had brought them a gift.


    No sooner had Gu Xiaoxi stepped out of the kitchen, than Hu Yidao entered with a big sack of potatoes.


    He glanced at the corner where the wine was and eyed Gu Xiaoxi suspiciously, ¡°Don¡¯t try to bribe me with those pricey items!¡±


    Seeing that he had actually taken leave to return, Gu Xiaoxi assumed his mother must have gotten better, and hastily responded with a chuckle, ¡°In our house, things like these are as common as market stalls, they¡¯re not worth much.


    Besides, we¡¯re comrades, we¡¯re close.¡±


    At the same time, Gu Xiaoxi pulled out a pack of cigarettes from her pocket and tossed it to him, ¡°Here!


    They¡¯re not as high-quality as last time.


    Make do with these.¡±


    With that said, Gu Xiaoxi had already left the kitchen.


    By now, the training squad had returned.


    Everyone gathered in the canteen for lunch, and since Gu Xiaoxi had already eaten, she went back to the dormitory and reported her return to duty to Yuan Shang!


    Hu Yidao, holding the pack of cigarettes, chuckled to himself.


    The girl had certainly not disappointed him!


    It wasn¡¯t anything fancy, but this bribe, he¡¯d accept.


    Just as Gu Xiaoxi had reported for duty, Yuan Shang informed Ning Jiu.


    Afterward, Ning Jiu said he wanted to see her.


    So, before training began.


    She went to see her platoon leader.


    Of course, as soon as she entered the office, she also spotted Shao Changfeng, Wu Yi, and others.


    Several platoon leaders seemed to be huddled up discussing something.


    Gu Xiaoxi saluted everyone!


    Ning Jiu scanned her from head to toe, ¡°At ease!


    Have a seat!¡±


    He gestured to a stool not far away.

 Chapter 62 - 62 032 Love Confession Letter

    ?62: 032 Love Confession Letter 62: 032 Love Confession Letter Gu Xiaoxi sat down, smiling amiably as she looked at him, ¡°Platoon leader, were you looking for me for something?¡±


    Ning Jiu¡¯s expression turned serious in an instant, ¡°How¡¯s your foot injury?¡±


    Three days ago, he had seen it clearly.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s ankle had swollen a huge patch, and it looked terrifying.


    ¡°It¡¯s better!¡± Gu Xiaoxi smiled and nodded.


    Ning Jiu coughed, ¡°I¡¯m telling you, although the honor of a soldier is very important, you can¡¯t joke with your own life.


    That day when you fell from the tree, if the leader above hadn¡¯t kindly caught you, do you know what the consequences would be?


    If the bones had been injured, it¡¯s very possible that you could never be a soldier again.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s face darkened.


    Which eye of his saw that she had fallen?


    She obviously jumped down herself, thank you very much!


    All those present pricked up their ears, looking on with interest as Ning Jiu lectured Gu Xiaoxi.


    And Gu Xiaoxi listened obediently throughout.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s injury healed?¡± Shao Changfeng looked towards Ning Jiu, and seeing him as if more eager and anxious than Gu Xiaoxi, stepped forward and couldn¡¯t help but remind, ¡°It¡¯s almost twelve o¡¯clock!


    Training is about to start.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi immediately sent Shao Changfeng a grateful look!


    Today she discovered that Ning Jiu could really be a chatterbox.


    Although he was just in his early twenties, he already had the mouth of a forty-year-old mother!


    Damn it, and he even misunderstood her, very seriously at that.


    Ning Jiu looked up awkwardly, glanced at the clock hanging overhead, and huffed at Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi immediately stood up and saluted, ¡°Present!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t overestimate your strength again, now fall in for training,¡± Ning Jiu said loudly.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Gu Xiaoxi turned around happily, ready to walk away.


    At the door, however, Ning Jiu called out to her again.


    ¡°Wait, here¡¯s a letter for you!


    From the Fourth Military Region!¡± Ning Jiu took an envelope out of the drawer.


    It only had an address and a recipient on it, so it was unclear who it was from.


    But one thing was certain: it was sent from the Fourth Military Region.


    Gu Xiaoxi tilted her head, surprise flickering through her dark eyes, seemingly in disbelief, and confirmed again.


    ¡°For me?


    From the Fourth Military Region?¡±


    ¡°For you, take a look for yourself!¡± Seeing her skeptical expression, Ning Jiu laughed and pushed the letter into her hand, ¡°Could it be that you don¡¯t even know who it¡¯s from?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi took the envelope, then walked out of the instructor¡¯s office, opening the envelope as she went.


    Before she had a chance to read it, a whirlwind blew over.


    The paper fluttered up in spirals, covering the face of the person who followed her out the door.


    Shao Changfeng¡¯s face darkened, he grabbed the paper in his hand, not that he meant to read the letter¡¯s content.


    But with just a glance, the few words were hard to miss unless one was blind.


    Gu Xiaoxi turned her head back to look at him, saw his odd expression, and couldn¡¯t help but go back and snatch the letter from his hands.


    The content of the letter was as follows:


    You are the unexpected ray of sunshine that shot into my life, silently lighting up my heart, always haunting my dreams!


    ¡ª Yi Chentian


    ¡ª


    Gu Xiaoxi stared at the forceful and powerful regular script on the page, her mind crashing, then after a moment, she scratched her head in puzzlement.


    ¡°What does this mean?¡±


    Shao Changfeng¡¯s eyes widened, almost unable to hold back a laugh, ¡°You definitely didn¡¯t study Chinese well when you were in school!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi lazily lifted her eyelids, her long, brush-like eyelashes fluttered as she glanced at Shao Changfeng, ¡°I can read!¡±


    Shao Changfeng took a deep sigh, forget it!


    There¡¯s no helping a natural low EQ!


    ¡°He¡¯s confessing to you!¡±


    ¡°What!


    This is a confession?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi was dumbstruck, staring at the string of characters on the paper, exclaiming in shock!


    Shao Changfeng covered his face with his hand in exasperation!


    That reaction was just too slow!


    ¡°Yi Chentian is very famous in the Fourth Military Region, rumored to be a Major.


    Talented, good-looking, humble and polite, from a wealthy family, quite suitable for a boyfriend!¡±


    Listening to Shao Changfeng, Gu Xiaoxi suddenly read the letter more closely.


    She looked up at the sky, the midday sun was indeed quite strong, making one¡¯s skin feel hot.


    Afterwards, she crumpled the letter and casually tossed it into the trash can.


    Shao Changfeng, shocked by her action, widened his eyes in disbelief, ¡°She rejected him?¡±


    Given Yi Chentian¡¯s popularity, which girl could resist his charm?


    ¡°Hey!


    That¡¯s not very nice of you!¡± Shao Changfeng caught up with her and said to Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi kept walking while looking back at him, ¡°What¡¯s not nice about it?


    Although I¡¯m happy that someone likes me, the confession was too cliche?.


    Not sincere enough!¡±


    ...


    Shao Changfeng stood still, feeling as if he¡¯d been struck by lightning!


    Damn it!


    She didn¡¯t reject him because she felt his sincerity wasn¡¯t enough?


    That meant, as long as there was sincerity, there was still a chance...


    ¡°Hey!


    Do you know Yi Chentian well?¡± Shao Changfeng asked.


    ¡°Not really, I¡¯ve met him once.


    Is there a problem?¡± Gu Xiaoxi looked back at him.


    Seeing his curious baby-like expression, she frowned involuntarily.


    Shao Changfeng scrutinized Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s expression, unable to discern any joy, anger, sorrow, or happiness.


    Her deep, black eyes were calm like a serene, clear spring.


    Did she truly not take this matter to heart?


    ¡°Forget it!


    Let¡¯s go train!¡± Shao Changfeng decided not to ask any further.


    ¡°You can date, but don¡¯t let it affect training!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi found his words strangely odd and ran off towards the training field.


    To tell the truth, she had never dated!


    Back in school, everyone disliked her for being too tomboyish.


    She could fight an entire street on her own and lift a fat man with one hand and throw him several meters away.


    Normally, men steered clear of her.


    Women bowed their heads in her presence!


    The life of a little overlord was quite lonely.


    As a result, she didn¡¯t even have friends, let alone suitors.


    At the age when feelings usually blossom, her heart was still a barren wasteland.


    Yi Chentian¡¯s letter, though cliche?d, caused a slight ripple in her calm heart with just a few words.


    But it was just a slight one!


    Because she knew that love at first sight seemed quite unrealistic.


    At least, at this moment, she felt nothing!


    Because the physical fitness of the new recruits was just too poor.


    The afternoon training continued with standing at attention in the scorching sun, combined with push-ups.


    The girls of Squad Nine stood upright, a fine sweat forming on their foreheads after just a few minutes.


    The harsh sun turned all their little faces red, but they clenched their teeth and endured.


    Gu Xiaoxi walked in front of the team and gave everyone a military salute.


    Yuan Shang glanced at her and commanded, ¡°Return to your position!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi walked to her spot and stood at attention.


    Mei Su and Qin Chu smiled at her joyfully, and Gu Xiaoxi blinked.


    She wanted to tell them she had brought chocolate.


    But with Yuan Shang there, she couldn¡¯t speak.


    She decided to wait until evening to surprise everyone!


    However, just as she settled into her spot, a cold and jealous gaze behind her sent a chill down her spine.


    Turning her head slightly, she caught a glimpse of Yan Xiao from the corner of her eye and couldn¡¯t help feeling a headache!


    How on earth had she become a thorn in someone¡¯s side?


    This Shao Changfeng was a huge problem; she needed to clarify the situation sooner rather than later.


    Otherwise, this comradery might intensify into something much worse!

 Chapter 63 - 63 033 The Transformation of the Little Pervert

    ?63: 033 The Transformation of the Little Pervert 63: 033 The Transformation of the Little Pervert Gu Xiaoxi turned her head and, using her peripheral vision, caught sight of Yan Xiao beside her, which gave her a headache!


    Why had she become such a thorn in someone else¡¯s side?


    This Shao Changfeng was such a big trouble; she needed to clarify things soon.


    Otherwise, the companionship of comrades would only intensify!


    On the training ground, the midday sun scorched the earth and baked a group of recruits, sweat pouring off everyone, soaking through their clothes.


    ¡°Report!


    Zhang Can has fainted!¡±


    ¡°Report!


    Sun Linxin has fainted!¡±


    ...


    One by one, people collapsed and were taken to the infirmary.


    Those who remained were the elites who could endure hardship.


    Three hours later, everyone was utterly exhausted.


    Yan Xiao, beside Gu Xiaoxi, had even paler lips and uneven breathing, but she still bit her lip and persevered.


    By five o¡¯clock in the afternoon, those who had fainted gradually returned to the ranks.


    Yuan Shang gave everyone a sly smile, ¡°Now it begins, the final five-kilometer weight-carrying run.


    You can eat only after you finish.


    Also, let me tell you, there¡¯s no dinner after 6:30.


    This is the most important moment to train your endurance, as long as you haven¡¯t fainted, grit your teeth and rush to the finish line.


    On the battlefield, the country does not need useless people.


    And the army, even more so, does not need soldiers who don¡¯t qualify to enter the battlefield...¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at Yuan Shang, stood up straight, and puffed out her chest.


    Although this type of training was a piece of cake for her, the depletion of Physical Strength was truly extraordinary.


    She had been sweating continuously since noon without a single drop of water to drink.


    At this point, everyone was already so tired they could barely stand, and the final weighted run felt like it demanded their life.


    Gu Xiaoxi felt her hair soaked with sweat, the harsh sun turning her fair skin red.


    Her face looked like a ripe, red apple.


    Following Yuan Shang¡¯s command, everyone began to run around the 400-meter track.


    12.5 laps were mercilessly tough for the average female soldier but for the sake of dinner, everyone gave it their all.


    As Gu Xiaoxi ran, she looked up at the gradually setting sun, took a deep breath, turned to Yan Xiao beside her, and said seriously, ¡°Do you need help?¡±


    This was the first time she spoke to someone she didn¡¯t like.


    More accurately, this was the first time she felt she should get along well with people around her, not needing to face her comrades with such an aggressive stance.


    Because, no matter what, these people beside her were not the real enemy!


    She would never forget Number Seventeen, so she would also try to communicate with her comrades.


    Watching the battle that night made her understand that if one cannot merge into a group, one cannot be a good soldier.


    Moreover, she knew that a single person¡¯s strength was like a chopstick, which could easily break.


    But if a bunch of chopsticks were tied together, it was different...


    ¡°Quit your crocodile tears!¡± Despite carrying her pack and running slowly, Yan Xiao¡¯s face was especially pale, but her look at Gu Xiaoxi was as hateful as ever, and unmistakably so!


    ¡°Yan Xiao, you¡¯re the mouse, and our Xiao Xi is not a cat.


    She¡¯s a tiger!


    We¡¯re all in the same squad, and Xiao Xi just wants to help you.


    What¡¯s with the way you¡¯re speaking!¡± Mei Su immediately became angry, her eyes wide as she caught up with Yan Xiao and began to defend Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°I know you all stick together, but this is the training ground.


    Do you still want to bully me here?¡± Yan Xiao kept running, flicking off sweat.


    Even if it killed her, she didn¡¯t need Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s help.


    She had joined the army because of Shao Changfeng and found it even harder to accept how close Gu Xiaoxi and Shao Changfeng were.


    Gu Xiaoxi smiled lightly and was not offended, ¡°Fine!


    It¡¯s best that you don¡¯t need anyone¡¯s help, work hard to prove yourself!¡± As she spoke, she just happened to see Zhang Xia fall heavily nearby.


    She immediately ran over and helped Zhang Xia up, ¡°Can you still run?¡±


    Zhang Xia looked at Gu Xiaoxi with surprise, quickly withdrew her hand from Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s grasp, and said with a bit of shock, ¡°Thank you.


    I can do it!¡±


    She had always been timid and her physical strength was average; ever since the first meeting when Gu Xiaoxi had shown Yan Xiao her place.


    Since then, she had quietly tried to lessen her own presence.


    Because later on, she realized that the gap between her and Gu Xiaoxi wasn¡¯t small; it was as vast as the difference between the heavens and the earth.


    Therefore, she felt an indescribable sense of inferiority in front of Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go!¡± Gu Xiaoxi resumed her usual demeanor, jogging slowly towards the finish line with the same stride as everyone else.


    Mei Su and Qin Chu both followed beside Gu Xiaoxi, expressing their incomprehension of her behavior!


    ¡°Xiao Xi, why do I feel like you¡¯ve suddenly changed!¡± Qin Chu glanced at Gu Xiaoxi from head to toe, adjusting his breath while searching for what exactly had changed about Gu Xiaoxi.


    Compared to the Gu Xiaoxi of the past, at this moment, she seemed more grounded, radiant, and vibrant.


    Despite still looking the same on the outside, when she spoke to the two fellow soldiers with whom she had the worst relationship, and even received a cold response...


    She didn¡¯t get angry!


    Even though it seemed like a loss of face on the surface, they could feel from Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s very core, a sense of self-respect and unique charm that actually commanded more respect.


    ¡°I¡¯m still me!


    What has changed?¡± Gu Xiaoxi followed the team in a light jog.


    Qin Chu sighed quietly, withdrew his gaze, and looked at the track in the distance, clearly without an answer.


    ¡°Qin Chu, don¡¯t talk nonsense.


    Xiao Xi hasn¡¯t changed at all!


    She¡¯s still the same oddball.


    I¡¯m just curious, knowing that you and Yan Xiao had issues, why did you still talk to her?¡± Mei Su was actually the one who couldn¡¯t let it go.


    She believed that people should respect each other.


    Gu Xiaoxi had obviously been caring for a fellow soldier, only to be reprimanded by Yan Xiao.


    Gu Xiaoxi smiled lightly, her rosy cheeks looking even prettier than before, ¡°You¡¯ll understand later.


    It¡¯s not a big deal!


    Right now, we must encourage each other and run together to the finish line.


    I don¡¯t want to miss dinner because it¡¯s past six-thirty.¡±


    With that, Gu Xiaoxi turned to assist Zhou Yue, who had fallen behind to almost the very end and had nearly come to a stop.


    Mei Su and Qin Chu exchanged glances, both wearing puzzled expressions, ¡°What pill did this guy take?


    She fell last time but didn¡¯t hit her head, right?


    Why is she suddenly playing the good Samaritan?


    She should be using her real skill to finish the 12.5 laps easily and then sit at the finish line, eating dinner and watching us run!


    That¡¯s the real Gu Xiaoxi, right?¡±


    Qin Chu agreed with Mei Su¡¯s opinion, ¡°That¡¯s why I said she had changed!


    I suspect her head got smashed by a car door to bother with that Yan Xiao voluntarily!¡±


    In their minds, Gu Xiaoxi was the type who would reciprocate good with good, and bad with...


    well, let¡¯s just say she considered you as dirt.


    Her sudden gesture of goodwill to whom she considered ¡°dirt¡± in her eyes was indeed baffling!

 Chapter 64 - 64 034 Your boyfriend is really good to you

    ?64: 034 Your boyfriend is really good to you 64: 034 Your boyfriend is really good to you Zhou Yue!


    She had the worst physical fitness in the entire class nine.


    Right now, Gu Xiaoxi was supporting her, and she felt like she was sitting on pins and needles.


    Even if she wanted to faint, she was so terrified that she clenched her teeth and forced herself to keep running forward.


    It was terrifying!


    The always cold and arrogant little freak suddenly dignified herself to come and help her.


    Gu Xiaoxi only extended a hand when Zhou Yue was about to fall or felt like giving up, lightly pulling her up.


    But this fatal pressure made her feel utterly horrified.


    This isn¡¯t how it¡¯s played out in TV dramas!


    There was a moment when Zhou Yue even felt that having Gu Xiaoxi in front of her was more terrifying than having Yuan Shang there!


    On the training field.


    The squad of class nine was somewhat disorganized, but everyone managed to keep a similar pace, encouraging each other to move forward.


    They had already completed half of the required 12.5 laps.


    ¡°The unity issue in class nine has always revolved around Gu Xiaoxi.


    This guy carries an air of a king.


    Since that incident with Yan Xiao on the first day of enlistment, aside from Qin Chu and Mei Su, almost no one dares to interact with her in the dormitory.


    She has always held her head high, never intending to make friends with others!


    This sudden change is really hard to get used to,¡± Yuan Shang said, with his hands on his hips, standing at the center of the training field.


    He looked at everyone¡¯s condition and exclaimed to Ning Jiu.


    ¡°Haha!¡± Ning Jiu lifted his baby-face and laughed heartily, feeling equally astonished, ¡°Recently, I was worried about finding a way to make them realize the importance of unity.


    I haven¡¯t even taken action, and Gu Xiaoxi has changed on her own?


    She could have such an enlightenment?¡±


    ¡°Most recruits, even after they¡¯ve left the recruit company, never get this point, even if you try to teach them,¡± Yuan Shang mused on the side.


    ¡°That¡¯s why the Special Forces¡¯ annual attrition rate is ninety-five percent, and thirty percent of that is due to a lack of comradery and unity,¡± Shao Changfeng suddenly appeared behind Ning Jiu and said.


    Ning Jiu gave him a sideways glance, ¡°Speaking of which, didn¡¯t you go out this year?


    Why did you come back halfway?


    I heard that all fifty of you were disbanded.


    Is it true that all of you were not up to standard?¡±


    As he finished speaking, he immediately put on a baffled expression.


    But mostly, he felt incredulous.


    Shao Changfeng glanced at Gu Xiaoxi not far away, and a faint smile played at his icy lips, ¡°Yes, not up to standard!¡±


    He paused for a long while before he finally spoke through gritted teeth and said solemnly, ¡°It was actually because of that Gu from your class that we got screwed over!¡±


    He would never forget the first time he saw Gu Xiaoxi.


    The girl was lying on the branch, leisurely as if she were on vacation, and despite knowing that the helicopter was landing over her head, she managed to fall asleep on the tree.


    What was most infuriating was that her speed when she ran away was even faster than a rabbit¡¯s.


    ¡°Shao Changfeng, I¡¯m quite confused by what you¡¯re saying.


    Your group was disbanded, so how can you blame Gu Xiaoxi!


    Isn¡¯t she the new girl?¡± Ning Jiu took out chewing gum from his pocket and offered it to Shao Changfeng.


    Shao Changfeng took it, poured two pieces into his mouth, and then said irritably, ¡°That¡¯s a question you¡¯ll have to ask Third Platoon Leader Wu Yi.


    At first, we received orders from our superiors to capture her.


    As a result, she ran right under our noses.


    So, the mission failed.


    The next day, we were directly disbanded by our superiors for not being up to standard.¡±


    Ning Jiu frowned, ¡°I remember Wu Yi telling me about a new recruit who dumped a basin of cold water on him.


    Could that be her?¡±


    Shao Changfeng turned his head and gave Ning Jiu a smirk, his eyes flashing with malice, ¡°You¡¯re lucky.


    Gu Xiaoxi has never given you trouble.¡±


    Ning Jiu patted Shao Changfeng¡¯s shoulder, speaking earnestly, ¡°She sees this place as a haven.


    I heard that as soon as she arrived at the base, both you and Wu Yi were competing for her.


    I thought she was a good soldier, turns out she¡¯s a thorn in the side!¡±


    Shao Changfeng gave a sly smile, brushing off the hand on his shoulder, and said coldly, ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate her.


    This girl has a pretty solid backing.


    She¡¯s capable of mobilizing Special Forces at will and can even directly disband Flame.


    Her status must be, at the very least, that of a high-ranking official.¡±


    Ning Jiu nodded, looking towards Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Having such support, yet being modest and calm!


    She deserves praise!¡±


    Shao Changfeng sighed, ¡°The first time she came to enlist, she was probably forced, so she wasn¡¯t very willing, hence she ran away.


    Now it seems, she has compromised.¡±


    Ning Jiu rolled his eyes, ¡°If Special Forces can be mobilized to chase her, can she even run?


    It seems the higher-ups really value her.


    We need to train her well!¡±


    ...


    *


    The female students of class nine finally completed the 12.5 laps.


    Each one was so exhausted that they collapsed on the ground, finding it difficult to move their legs even slightly.


    However, before their buttocks could even settle properly, the whistle on Yuan Shang¡¯s neck sounded.


    ¡°Assemble!¡±


    At the sound of Yuan Shang¡¯s whistle, everyone immediately frowned, having just finished running 5000 meters with great difficulty.


    Helplessly, everyone sprang into action and rapidly formed ranks!


    Fortunately, after the roll call, Yuan Shang immediately dismissed the group.


    On the way back to the dormitory, Gu Xiaoxi bumped into Zhang Jingyue at the intersection.


    The two of them merely brushed past one another, the air between them instantly stiffening with unspoken tension.


    Zhang Jingyue came across to Gu Xiaoxi as someone who was very good at pretending, so she couldn¡¯t discern her depths, but could feel the tumultuous waves in her gaze.


    She felt completely different from Yan Xiao, who was obviously laden with jealousy and resentment.


    Yan Xiao was like the rough waves near the shore, fierce but visible, so you could still avoid them.


    Zhang Jingyue was more like the calm sea, seemingly windless and waveless, but unpredictable, never knowing when it would form a vortex that could swallow you whole.


    ¡°Wait up!¡± Gu Xiaoxi suddenly stopped and called out to Zhang Jingyue.


    She turned around and looked at her with a light smile, ¡°I¡¯m very sorry.


    I didn¡¯t let you make it into the top three.


    Are you very disappointed?¡±


    Zhang Jingyue¡¯s voice was as pleasant as a oriole¡¯s song, her expression calm, her smile shallow, ¡°Indeed, I¡¯m quite disappointed.


    But next time, I will beat you.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi curved her lips into a smile, ¡°I¡¯m ready any time!¡±


    Then, she turned and strode toward the dormitory.


    Mei Su and Qin Chu exchanged glances and immediately followed.


    Qin Chu glanced at Gu Xiaoxi and then at Zhang Jingyue¡¯s retreating figure, ¡°I feel something¡¯s odd about the atmosphere between you two!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t answer their question but cheerfully said, ¡°Let¡¯s go!


    I brought chocolates for everyone!¡±


    ...


    Inside the dormitory.


    Gu Xiaoxi opened the exquisite chocolate box, and inside, large chunks of chocolate wrapped in gold foil paper excited everyone.


    ¡°Wow!


    The packaging is so pretty.


    I¡¯ve never seen this brand before, this must be expensive!


    Where did you get this from, Gu Xiaoxi?


    Was it from your boyfriend?¡± Mei Su exclaimed in surprise while leaning in close to Gu Xiaoxi with a sly expression, ¡°Come on, confess!¡±


    Her family was considered a second-tier wealthy household in City A, and she had seen many chocolates, just none this large and beautifully packaged.


    One look was all it took to know they must be quite valuable.


    Yan Xiao, who entered the room at that moment, also felt shocked by the brand of the chocolates.


    Because that box of chocolates cost tens of thousands of yuan, it was an exclusive secret recipe, available only by reservation.


    The next moment, her jealous gaze shot towards Gu Xiaoxi, her tone dripping with sarcasm, ¡°Your boyfriend really treats you well.


    He¡¯s even willing to buy you this!¡±


    She instinctively assumed it was from Shao Changfeng.


    After all, for a person of Shao Changfeng¡¯s modest background, a box of chocolates was affordable, but this would probably cost him several months¡¯ salary!


    Gu Xiaoxi blinked, feeling wronged.


    She had found it in her family¡¯s storeroom.


    The housekeeper told her that it was an anonymous Valentine¡¯s Day gift sent to Young Master Quan.


    But Shaoqing didn¡¯t like it and had tossed it into the storeroom.


    If one were to account for it, shouldn¡¯t it be said that it was a gift from Shaoqing¡¯s girlfriend to him?


    Gu Xiaoxi suddenly realized her mistake, filled with regret.


    She remembered there seemed to be over ten boxes of other brands in the storeroom.


    Were they all Valentine¡¯s Day gifts from others to him?


    When the butler had let her take more, why had she been so modest?

 Chapter 65 - 65 035 I was adopted by someone else!

    ?65: 035 I was adopted by someone else!


    65: 035 I was adopted by someone else!


    Mei Su munched on chocolate, not forgetting to tease Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Come on, tell me, was it a boyfriend who gave it to you?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi rolled her eyes at her, ¡°This is a Valentine¡¯s Day gift that someone else gave to my guardian.


    I saw it sitting in the warehouse, and I was afraid it would go bad after a long time.


    So I decided to share it with everyone.¡±


    Qin Chu nodded his head in understanding, ¡°Then your guardian must be really charming.


    Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re from a single-parent family?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi curved her lips into a faint smile, her expression becoming indifferent, ¡°I was adopted by someone else!¡±


    Upon hearing this, everyone exchanged glances, the atmosphere turning awkward.


    Mei Su naturally understood what she meant.


    Only when your parents are gone would you be adopted by someone else.


    Gu Xiaoxi walked out with a basin and towel, looking back at Mei Su, ¡°I¡¯m going to wash up, you guys eat!


    Remember to share with everyone, don¡¯t hog it to yourself!¡±


    Mei Su immediately waved at her, ¡°Hurry up!


    There¡¯s only ten minutes left until mealtime.¡±


    Afterwards, she passed the chocolate to Yan Xiao.


    Yan Xiao snorted coldly, ¡°Keep it away from me, I have my own!¡±


    Mei Su wrinkled her nose at her and then walked over to the others with the box.


    Since Gu Xiaoxi was making nice with everyone, besides Yan Xiao, the rest naturally wouldn¡¯t refuse.


    Moreover, it was the rumored brand-name chocolate¡ªwho wouldn¡¯t want to taste and see what made it different from ordinary chocolate!


    That evening the troops had a sing-along, which, compared to the intense training of the past few days, turned out to be the most relaxing time.


    After singing military songs, everyone was free to belt out their own songs or dance.


    Ning Jiu even suggested each squad recommend someone to perform for the group.


    The atmosphere became very lively at that moment.


    This was the happiest evening everyone had had in days, with everyone belting out songs and showcasing their talents.


    The training field was filled with laughter and cheer.


    Watching the boys and girls dancing in front of her, Gu Xiaoxi felt admiration.


    Among them were high achievers in music who mastered instruments like the guitar, zither, and flute.


    There were also wealthy young ladies skilled in ballet and ethnic dances, and passionate young men who could write poetry and songs.


    Even though they weren¡¯t the top performers in training and physical fitness, their talents were indeed admirable.


    In this grand setting, soldiers from the whole company began to interact and showcase their strengths for the first time.


    When it was Squad Nine¡¯s turn to perform.


    Yuan Shang didn¡¯t hesitate to call on Gu Xiaoxi to take the stage.


    Gu Xiaoxi scowled¡ªshe couldn¡¯t dance ballet, nor could she play musical instruments or sing.


    But, being called upon, she couldn¡¯t just do nothing!


    Gu Xiaoxi had someone fetch a basketball from the warehouse before addressing the crowd, ¡°Today I¡¯m going to perform freestyle basketball for you all.


    I¡¯m sure many of you can play!¡±


    As soon as she said this, many girls showed a look of disdain, clearly not the type of thing kids from wealthy families would play with.


    Freestyle basketball was something loved by hooligans and riffraff!


    However, many boys were filled with anticipation because freestyle basketball was difficult to learn¡ªeven if you wanted to play, without technique or balance, you couldn¡¯t do it well, let alone master it.


    And if you did, that was truly cool to the point of having no friends.


    Gu Xiaoxi was indifferent to everyone¡¯s gazes.


    The basketball was thrown into the air, spinning rapidly, and when it fell, she caught it with the tip of her foot, her body leaning down and her head lowered as she raised her foot high, resembling an eagle spreading its wings.


    The ball slid from her toe to her shoulder and then spun around her neck to the other shoulder...


    Her movements were smooth and forceful in one breath, the basketball like a mischievous child being skillfully played in her hands.


    At the beginning, she showed everyone the standard fancy basketball moves, then she mixed the basketball tricks with cool street dance moves.


    Dribbling the ball with her feet, she started with a 160-degree spin, followed by a one-handed handstand, spinning the ball with her feet.


    Within a mere ten minutes, the venue erupted into fervent applause.


    The boys were boiling with excitement, full of admiration.


    Gu Xiaoxi put away the basketball, gave everyone a gentleman¡¯s bow, and took her seat.


    Mei Su¡¯s eyes gleamed as she immediately propped her chin with both hands, and adopted an adoring look, ¡°Xiao Xi, if you were a guy, I¡¯d have fallen in love with you right now.


    I want to confess to you!¡±


    ¡°You!


    With arms too short, legs too thick, and too short in height!


    I don¡¯t fancy you!


    I reject you!¡± Gu Xiaoxi seriously patted Mei Su¡¯s arm with a look of genuine disdain on her face.


    As she finished speaking, laughter erupted from the crowd.


    They had just realized that Gu Xiaoxi actually had a sense of humor.


    Mei Su was speechless but said she didn¡¯t mind and even more earnestly replied, ¡°If I were a man, I wouldn¡¯t give up, even if you said that.


    Too bad, I¡¯m not a man.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi glared at Mei Su.


    This guy was getting bolder, daring to tease her.


    Mei Su felt it wasn¡¯t enough and stood up, turning to the male students of classes seven and eight with a smile, ¡°Those who fancy our Xiao Xi better act fast!


    Fair-skinned, beautiful, with long legs, and cool talents...¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi quickly covered Mei Su¡¯s mouth!


    This guy was getting hooked!


    The noise attracted the instructors¡¯ hearty laughter, and the night passed with much joy and laughter.


    After it ended, everyone still lingered, singing the resounding military songs as they walked towards the dormitories.


    It was late at night and all was quiet.


    Gu Xiaoxi saw that everyone was resting and sneaked out of the dormitory alone.


    She left the dorm building, circled the track, and entered the mountain area behind the troop post.


    No sooner had Gu Xiaoxi left the door than Yan Xiao noticed her and stealthily followed.


    At night, the moon hung high like a silver plate in the sky, and the mountains and forests were shrouded in silence.


    Gu Xiaoxi followed the path for about thirty minutes until she saw an ancient tree looming twenty meters tall with a ten-meter diameter, its leaves dense, with starry specks of moonlight filtering through the gaps.


    With a powerful jump from her feet, she leapt up and then comfortably seated herself on the branch of the old tree.


    She had come out to practice her inner strength.


    Her master, Yi Haoran, had once secretly given her a book to memorize, instructing her to practice for two hours every night according to its contents.


    At the time, she hadn¡¯t taken it seriously.


    Although she memorized it, she didn¡¯t practice every day, which led to her neglecting the inner strength techniques Liu Yishou had taught her.


    As a result, she was still half-baked in martial arts.


    With that in mind, she crossed her legs, calmed the chaos in her mind, and started to breathe in and out, bringing herself to tranquility.


    However, just as she closed her eyes, she heard someone exhale softly two hundred meters away, as if they had fallen.


    Gu Xiaoxi opened her eyes and looked in the direction she had come from, certain that someone was following her.


    Yan Xiao rubbed her sore buttocks, her face gloomy and displeased.


    Gu Xiaoxi had disappeared so quickly.


    The forest was pitch-black, and even with the moonlight, nothing could be seen inside.


    Moreover, it was rumored that there were wolves here at night, which scared her into running back immediately.


    Gu Xiaoxi listened as the footsteps of the person receded into the distance.


    Only then did she follow the inner strength techniques once more, re-entering meditation and focusing on her breathing.

 Chapter 66 - 66 036 Its a bit embarrassing!

    ?66: 036 It¡¯s a bit embarrassing!


    66: 036 It¡¯s a bit embarrassing!


    Afterward, Gu Xiaoxi would train during the day, and after finishing her training at night, she¡¯d come to this big tree to practice techniques.


    At first, the results were not obvious, but she wasn¡¯t in a hurry, because these things can¡¯t be perfected overnight.


    Luckily, she had some foundation from before; otherwise, she would have been stumped.


    Gu Xiaoxi had stealthily taken a mobile phone from home.


    Of course, she couldn¡¯t keep it a secret from Quan Shaoqing.


    Let alone let everyone else know this secret.


    Sometimes she would browse the web, and then chat with Quan Shaoqing about life in the military.


    And there was Yi Chentian!


    Every now and then, he would send her messages.


    Besides cheesy poems, there were also funny jokes.


    Time flew by, and a month and a half had passed, the life of a recruit was already halfway through.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s relationship with everyone had eased, except for Yan Xiao, the rest could basically get along happily.


    That night, as usual, Gu Xiaoxi came alone and sat on the trunk of the big tree.


    Just as she took out her phone from her pocket, a message from Yi Chentian arrived.


    [Can I come to see you tomorrow?]


    Looking at the message, Gu Xiaoxi thought about it and felt there was no reason she couldn¡¯t.


    After all, they had been chatting for so long.


    Yi Chentian didn¡¯t particularly impress her, but she certainly didn¡¯t dislike him.


    Gu Xiaoxi just wondered, what was it about her that had captured Yi Chentian¡¯s heart and made him like her so much?


    Gu Xiaoxi propped her head up with one hand, her long eyelashes fluttering in the night, her gaze sparkling with fervent light.


    Speaking of ¡°falling in love,¡± she indeed felt a little flutter in her heart!


    But, she wanted to ask Quan Shaoqing!


    So, she opened Quan Shaoqing¡¯s number!


    And sent him a message!


    [Guardian!


    Can I date?]


    A minute later, she received a reply!


    [No!


    You¡¯re only eighteen!]


    Quan Shaoqing was leaning against the headboard, clearly ready to sleep, when her message startled him awake.


    Gu Xiaoxi snorted!


    If he didn¡¯t agree, she was all the more determined to date!


    [You¡¯re a tyrant!


    Just you wait!]


    Looking at the ambiguous words in the message, Quan Shaoqing had a bad feeling stirring inside him.


    Did this girl have someone she liked?


    Instantly, Quan Shaoqing sprang up from the bed, grabbed his phone, and immediately called Gu Xiaoxi.


    Looking at the blinking number on her phone, the corners of Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s mouth curled into a smirk.


    She picked it up and answered nonchalantly, ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve got someone you like, don¡¯t you?


    Listen to me, you¡¯re only eighteen!¡± Quan Shaoqing spoke in a particularly assertive tone.


    Gu Xiaoxi rolled her eyes, ¡°Can¡¯t I date at eighteen?


    In three months I¡¯ll be nineteen.


    I¡¯m not underage anymore.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing was momentarily speechless, ¡°Anyway, you¡¯re not allowed to date!¡±


    Upon hearing this, Gu Xiaoxi immediately became annoyed.


    He wanted to control this about her, too?


    The next moment, Gu Xiaoxi decisively hung up the phone.


    After that, no matter how many times Quan Shaoqing called, she no longer answered.


    She also replied to Yi Chentian with a message.


    [You can come over anytime!]


    Then she turned off her phone and began to practice her techniques with undivided attention!


    Anyway, she wanted to date.


    As for whether she liked Yi Chentian or not, at least she didn¡¯t dislike him.


    The next day, Gu Xiaoxi was training.


    Ning Jiu came to find her personally, saying that someone was looking for her.


    Gu Xiaoxi knew who it was.


    Without saying much, she followed Ning Jiu to the reception room.


    Upon entering the room,


    Gu Xiaoxi saw Yi Chentian standing not far away, holding a lunchbox in his hand.


    He was well-built and handsome, and right now, he was wearing a sky-blue shirt, with several diamond buttons at the neck that were particularly dazzling under the afternoon sun.


    A pair of white casual pants covered his long legs, giving the impression of an elegant prince.


    He seemed like a completely different person compared to when he wore military uniform, his face smeared with camouflage paint.


    Yi Chentian stood not far away, smiling at Gu Xiaoxi with tenderness.


    Gu Xiaoxi pushed her military cap and felt a drop of sweat slide down her forehead, finding the situation really awkward!


    Especially since in the reception room right now, Ning Jiu¡¯s pair of gossip-filled eyes were brimming with curiosity!


    ¡°Platoon leader!


    Can you leave now?¡± Gu Xiaoxi turned her head, her shining eyes sternly falling on Ning Jiu¡¯s face.


    Ning Jiu immediately snapped back to reality with a chuckle, looking at Yi Chentian, ¡°The officer can take his time chatting!


    I¡¯ll take my leave now!¡±


    Yi Chentian smiled and waved at Ning Jiu.


    ¡°Thank you, Platoon Leader Ning!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi looked up at the sky, thinking that Yi Chentian really had a good nature; no wonder so many girls liked him and he had such a good reputation.


    Suitable to be a boyfriend!


    But, she seemed to have done something foolish!


    ¡°Xiao Xi, we¡¯ve finally met.


    It¡¯s been over a month since our last encounter.


    Are you getting used to it here?¡± Yi Chentian appeared somewhat excited.


    Gu Xiaoxi took off the hat on her head, shook her slightly disheveled hair, leaned against the table, and then looked to Yi Chentian, ¡°Do others know about your visit?¡±


    ¡°Others?


    Who are you referring to?¡± Yi Chentian asked curiously.


    ¡°Naturally, our new recruit platoon comrades.¡± Gu Xiaoxi knew that although the army didn¡¯t explicitly forbid relationships, they also didn¡¯t allow them to interfere with training.


    ¡°No one!¡± Yi Chentian laughed.


    ¡°I won¡¯t affect you!¡±


    ¡°Well then, I have training this afternoon.


    We¡¯ve met, so you can go back now,¡± said Gu Xiaoxi, sitting on a stool, her legs crossed.


    Yi Chentian narrowed his eyes, smiling gently and unhurriedly, and placed the thermos he was carrying in front of Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Don¡¯t rush, I made this for you.


    Eat up, then I¡¯ll leave!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi craned her neck to see as he slowly opened six small thermal containers, revealing four dishes: a secret recipe codfish, two plump crabs, a fried meat roll that was golden and crispy, and a serving of vegetable salad.


    Another container held rich and fragrant bone soup with a side of rice balls.


    It was evident that he had paid careful attention to every detail, even the placement of the dishes was very appealing, enough to make one¡¯s mouth water at first glance.


    Swallowing, Gu Xiaoxi honestly admitted that after a morning of training, she was indeed hungry.


    ¡°I knew you¡¯d be hungry!


    Eat up!


    I made it specially for you,¡± Yi Chentian said with a smile.


    He passed her a pair of chopsticks.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eyes spun around, and after receiving them, she smiled heartily, ¡°Then I won¡¯t stand on ceremony!¡±


    Yi Chentian smiled gently, sitting opposite Gu Xiaoxi, watching her eat.


    He had taken leave for a day, woken up early in the morning, driven to the nearby market to buy ingredients, cooked all morning, and had immediately delivered it to her.


    Luckily, the distance from his place to the new recruits¡¯ platoon wasn¡¯t very far, nor did it take much time.


    As Gu Xiaoxi enjoyed the delicious meal, she felt that the dishes tasted even better than they looked.


    While eating, she looked at Yi Chentian, ¡°You went through a lot of trouble!¡±


    ¡°If you like it, I¡¯ll cook for you again next time!¡± Yi Chentian replied with a laugh.


    In truth, just having the opportunity to show himself to her had already made him very happy.


    Gu Xiaoxi just laughed, her mouth full of food as she looked up at Yi Chentian, ¡°Did you specifically learn this to charm girls?¡±


    ¡°Of course not!


    I cooked for the first time just for you!


    I swear!¡± Yi Chentian immediately stretched out four fingers in a nervous pledge.


    Gu Xiaoxi gave him a look, and after filling herself up, she packed the lunchbox and returned it to him.


    ¡°Thanks, the food was good.¡±


    ¡°As long as you like it!¡±


    Suddenly, it seemed they ran out of things to say, and the atmosphere turned inexplicably awkward.


    Gu Xiaoxi pointed outside, ¡°Then, I¡¯m off to train.¡±


    Yi Chentian smiled softly, his gaze tender as if bathed in the spring breeze.


    He picked up Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s cap, fixed her hair for her, and then correctly placed the military hat on her head, ¡°Go ahead!¡±


    His gentle fingers brushed through her soft hair.


    Standing in front of him, Gu Xiaoxi found her heart suddenly skipping a beat for some unknown reason.


    This was her first time being together with a boy who liked her.


    It was a bit awkward!

 Chapter 67 - 67 037

    ?67: 037 The Beaten Ning Jiu 67: 037 The Beaten Ning Jiu Gu Xiaoxi returned to the team, her mind still filled with Yi Chentian¡¯s smile, which inexplicably made her feel very warm.


    However, since then, she hadn¡¯t received any message from Yi Chentian for a month.


    Forget about a big meal, not even a text message.


    By this time, most of the recruit training was behind them, entering the final performance assessment.


    The training for the new recruits posed no challenge for Gu Xiaoxi.


    Without a doubt, she ranked among the top in all subjects.


    And with her help, the average score of the ninth squad was also far ahead.


    Everyone was waiting to be assigned to their respective companies, so compared to the intense training before, it was much more relaxed.


    After breakfast that day, the company commander came and told everyone that the apple trees the unit had planted were now laden with fruit.


    He asked everyone to prepare to go up the mountain to help pick apples.


    All the girls in the squad were excited, and although picking apples was laborious, it was a welcome change from the monotonous training and felt like a leisurely break.


    The earth on the back hill was fertile, and the apple trees planted by the military themselves were heavy with fruit, hanging from the branches.


    Hundreds of people set out together, carrying baskets, starting from the top of the mountain to pick apples.


    Qin Chu, carrying a basket, looked at Gu Xiaoxi and felt that this girl had suddenly become much quieter.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, are you heartbroken?¡±


    Mei Su immediately perked up her ears to listen and couldn¡¯t help interjecting, ¡°I heard a handsome guy came looking for you last time, was it him?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi glanced at them sideways, ¡°Less gossip!


    Get on with picking apples.¡±


    As to whether it counted as heartbreak, she herself didn¡¯t know.


    Maybe the romance hadn¡¯t even begun, so during this time, she couldn¡¯t be certain whether Yi Chentian was playing hard to get or if it had truly ended.


    There was definitely a sense of loss!


    ¡°Xiao Xi, I want to be assigned to the same place as you!¡± Qin Chu placed a large apple into the basket, his gaze intense.


    Gu Xiaoxi turned around and sighed.


    ¡°We¡¯ll know the results tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Qin Chu, stop dreaming...


    We¡¯re way behind her, we definitely won¡¯t be in the same company,¡± Mei Su said.


    Qin Chu took a bite of an apple and exhaled heavily, ¡°True that!¡±


    ¡°Maybe we¡¯ll have a chance to see each other again in the future!¡± Gu Xiaoxi turned and smiled, ¡°There¡¯s a selection for special forces every year, so everyone, keep it up!¡±


    As her words fell, everyone¡¯s eyes lit up.


    Qin Chu and Mei Su exchanged a glance, ¡°Hahaha!


    Maybe we can meet again!¡±


    They were busy picking apples all day and were utterly exhausted by the evening.


    To Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s surprise, Ning Jiu came to find her, saying that Yi Chentian had come to see her.


    Gu Xiaoxi took a shower and changed into clean clothes before going to the rest room.


    In the rest room.


    Yi Chentian stood in front of the window, holding a lunch box, his silhouette tall and straight, so quiet as if he had blended into the night.


    When he saw Gu Xiaoxi enter the room, he immediately turned around, a smile appearing on his face, ¡°You¡¯re here.


    I¡¯m sorry I haven¡¯t come to see you for a month.


    This is for you.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi raised her eyebrows, her bright eyes narrowing slightly, sensing the strain in his voice.


    ¡°So, what have you been busy with lately?¡±


    Yi Chentian¡¯s silhouette stiffened, clearly feeling her anger.


    For the past month, he truly hadn¡¯t sent her even a message.


    Because...


    Yi Chentian bit his lip, hiding the pain in his eyes, his handsome face filled with embarrassment, the atmosphere froze at that moment, and he didn¡¯t even dare to meet Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry!


    This is the last time I¡¯m making food for you.


    Xiao Xi, I can¡¯t come to see you anymore.¡± Yi Chentian clenched his teeth, feeling suffocated inside.


    Recalling his conversation with Quan Shaoqing, he couldn¡¯t help but complete his painful words.


    Gu Xiaoxi pulled up a stool, sat down on it, and offered a slight smile, though her tone was through clenched teeth, ¡°You¡¯re joking with me, right?


    Yi Chentian, you¡¯re tough!


    Explain yourself clearly, and we can still be friends!


    Otherwise, get lost now, and from today on, we¡¯re enemies!¡±


    She had never been played with in her life, especially not in matters of the heart.


    This bastard!


    Deceiving her was a serious taboo.


    Yi Chentian felt his muscles tense, his throat as if something was stuck in it.


    After a moment, he placed the lunchbox on the table, ¡°I¡¯m sorry!


    I should leave now.¡±


    ¡°Hold on!¡± Gu Xiaoxi crossed her arms, lifted her delicate features with a sneer, ¡°Take your stuff and go.


    Include the cost of the previous meal as well.


    I don¡¯t like owing favors to anyone.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi took out several hundred-yuan notes from her pocket, slapped them onto the side of the lunchbox, then stood up, hands coldly in her pockets, and strode out of the break room.


    Outside, the silver moon hung high.


    Gu Xiaoxi stood in the training field, looking up at the sky!


    She thought, the word ¡®unlucky¡¯ doesn¡¯t suit matters of the heart.


    Dammit!


    But on her, it was incredibly apt.


    Full of confidence to start a relationship, yet it ended before it even began.


    How upsetting!


    ¡°Yo!


    Girl, what¡¯s up with you!


    What delicious thing did Yi Chentian bring for you just now?¡± Ning Jiu, with his baby face, laughed heartily.


    The moment Gu Xiaoxi heard Ning Jiu mention Yi Chentian, she got angry.


    She placed her hands on her hips, turning her head to look at Ning Jiu, ¡°Platoon Leader, I hear you¡¯re one of the best at combat among the instructors.


    How about we spar a bit!¡±


    ¡°Sure!¡± Ning Jiu laughed, giggling.


    He had wanted to see Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s true skills anyways.


    Gu Xiaoxi smirked, rolled up her sleeves, and lunged at Ning Jiu.


    Ning Jiu couldn¡¯t dodge in time and took a punch right in the eye from Gu Xiaoxi, immediately sporting a panda eye.


    Ning Jiu was shocked and speechless; not only was Gu Xiaoxi for real, but her speed was incredibly fast!


    The next instant, he dared not daydream any longer and quickly responded with his own moves.


    ...


    The next day, when Ning Jiu showed up in front of the lined-up troops with two panda eyes, everyone couldn¡¯t help but snicker.


    Especially Shao Changfeng, who couldn¡¯t resist teasing, ¡°Ning Jiu, you must have been up to no good last night!


    You got beaten up so badly!¡±


    Ning Jiu glared fiercely at Gu Xiaoxi in the ranks, that maniac!


    She didn¡¯t hold back at all, and the worst thing was, she left him unable to fight back.


    It was only now he realized too late that he had let Gu Xiaoxi use him as a punching bag!


    It was an unjust beating!


    He also felt humiliated; his fighting technique had lost to Gu Xiaoxi...


    He would rather die of laughter than admit he was beaten by Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°Report to Platoon Leader Shao, I saw it last night.


    Platoon Leader Ning was beaten by Gu Xiaoxi.¡±


    Someone from the ranks called out.


    Suddenly, hundreds of people burst into laughter.


    Ning Jiu: ¡°...¡±


    His face turned red, wishing he could find a hole to crawl into!


    Just then, the colonel¡¯s whistle blew.


    Because today, they were going to start being assigned to companies, and they were about to transfer to a new camp, to begin their new military life.

 Chapter 68 - 68 1 This is the True Show of Authority!

    ?68: Chapter 1 This is the True Show of Authority!


    68: Chapter 1 This is the True Show of Authority!


    Five hundred people were all staring eagerly, their eyes wide as they waited for the regimental commander to speak.


    After the regimental commander finished his encouraging words, the instructor took the stage with a folder in hand and scanned the crowd.


    ¡°We¡¯ll start the roll call now!


    Those called up, get on the bus.¡±


    The assignments were naturally based on assessment results.


    Most people knew that the first group to leave would likely be the best.


    The roll call proceeded strictly according to the assessment scores in descending order.


    As the superiors said, there¡¯s no distinction between men and women on the battlefield.


    As long as one has enough ability, one can be heavily relied upon.


    When Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s name was called, she picked up her backpack and belongings, stepped out of the line, and stood in front of the parting Yuan Shang.


    Yuan Shang looked at her fondly, ¡°Although we¡¯ve only been together for three months, I really find it hard to let you go.¡±


    ¡°Squad leader, are you sure it¡¯s me you¡¯re going to miss?¡± Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t believe him, squinting her eyes and teasing, ¡°You are probably just going to miss the talent!¡±


    Her words struck a chord.


    Yuan Shang sighed, ¡°You are the best soldier I¡¯ve ever trained!


    Gu Xiaoxi, keep performing well.


    When you make something of yourself, I can proudly tell other new recruits that I was your first squad leader!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll definitely make you proud!


    Squad leader, I really have to go now!¡± After saluting him, Gu Xiaoxi turned to Ning Jiu.


    ¡°Platoon leader, does it still hurt?¡± Gu Xiaoxi chuckled and took out a box of ointment from her bag for him, ¡°Don¡¯t be mad, alright!


    I did hit a bit too hard, but I did hold back some.


    This ointment is my way of apologizing.¡±


    Ning Jiu¡¯s face turned bluish with anger.


    She beat him up like that and had the nerve to say she held back.


    Did this devilish girl know any modesty?


    ¡°I¡¯ll take the ointment, but get lost!


    Don¡¯t let me see you again!¡± Ning Jiu said irritably.


    Gu Xiaoxi chuckled and, undisturbed, gave Ning Jiu a salute, ¡°Platoon leader, goodbye!¡±


    ¡°Just go!


    There will always be someone to take care of you!¡± Ning Jiu said this, but as he watched everyone leave, a hint of redness rose in his eyes.


    It always hurt to send off a batch of new soldiers!


    But at the same time, he felt incredibly proud!


    Because their military careers had started in their hands.


    Just as Gu Xiaoxi turned around, she heard someone call Qin Chu¡¯s name, which surprised her.


    But it was also nice, as they would be together again.


    In the end, in addition to Gu Xiaoxi, Zhang Jingyue, Song Jingyi, and Qin Chu, six other female soldiers had their names called.


    Gu Xiaoxi was the first to board the military bus.


    As soon as she entered, she saw a familiar face, which was a very, very big surprise.


    ¡°Why are you sitting here?¡± Gu Xiaoxi dropped her bag next to Shao Changfeng and took the seat beside him, looking at him curiously.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t get on the wrong bus, did you?


    Are you going to the same unit as us?¡±


    Shao Changfeng leaned back on the bus seat, his face cold as he covered it with his military cap and squinted his eyes lazily, ¡°Thanks to you!


    ¡®Flame¡¯ didn¡¯t make the cut, ended up being a platoon leader for the new recruits.


    After passing the higher-ups¡¯ inspection, I got promoted again, now off to Reconnaissance Company Four as a platoon leader!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi glanced at his epaulet, ¡°Not bad, Mr.


    Second Lieutenant!¡±


    Shao Changfeng lazily lifted his eyelid, staring at Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°It¡¯s all your fault, I don¡¯t want to talk to you?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi bristled, pointing at Shao Changfeng speechlessly, ¡°You got promoted, and you¡¯re giving me attitude?


    It¡¯s not like I did something heinous.


    It was just an accident that led to ¡®Flame¡¯ being disbanded.¡±


    Shao Changfeng closed his eyes, he wasn¡¯t angry!


    Even if he was, it was no use!


    Gu Xiaoxi turned to look outside the bus at Yan Xiao, who was still standing in line, ¡°Did you say goodbye to her when you left?


    She hated me for three months in the new recruits¡¯ company.


    I told you to explain it to her, did you?¡±


    Without moving an eyelid, Shao Changfeng responded with three cold words, ¡°None of my business!¡±


    Damn!


    Just as Gu Xiaoxi was about to say something, she saw Zhang Jingyue get on the bus with her baggage, followed by Qin Chu and Song Jingyi.


    Gu Xiaoxi pointed at Shao Changfeng, angrily declaring, ¡°Remember, you owe me compensation for defamation of character!¡±


    This guy, he was such a bully.


    Gu Xiaoxi picked up her bag and left the seat next to him, then sat in the back with Qin Chu and Song Jingyi.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, we finally get to be in the same squad.¡± Qin Chu¡¯s face showed a rare smile.


    Song Jingyi was even happier, ¡°Little freak, take good care of me from now on!


    Our last collaboration was very enjoyable.


    Also, did you speak well of me in front of your guardian?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi patted Qin Chu¡¯s shoulder, signifying that their friendship would last, but as for Song Jingyi.


    Gu Xiaoxi sat between the two, cocked her leg up, and chuckled lightly, ¡°You¡¯re not falling for him and wanting to become my second guardian, are you?¡±


    Song Jingyi chuckled mischievously and didn¡¯t try to hide her intentions, ¡°I fancy him, but he doesn¡¯t fancy me!


    Just do this, have him introduce one of his good men to me.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi glanced at her, ¡°Idiot!


    There are tons of good men in the army, you can just pick any!


    Who knows, the one introduced might just have stinky feet...¡±


    And so, a few of them chatted away aimlessly.


    The first batch to board the military bus included twenty-seven male soldiers and nine female soldiers.


    Compared to the over five hundred people, forty was a tiny fraction.


    However, for The Fourth War Zone¡¯s Reconnaissance Company, this was the largest number of new recruits they had ever taken in at once.


    The last ones to board were two young officers, reportedly assigned specifically from The Fourth War Zone to welcome the new recruits.


    As the bus left the new recruits base, the shadows of the trees began to fade away.


    Curiosity emerged on everyone¡¯s faces about the new camp as they sat in groups of threes and twos, chatting away.


    Zhang Jingyue, sitting beside Na Feng, watched disdainfully as Na Feng gave Gu Xiaoxi a scornful glance and fumed, ¡°How could she end up in the same team as us?


    Are we really going to be comrades in the future?¡±


    Zhang Jingyue took out a book about war from her bag, started reading it in her hands, and without looking up, said, ¡°What¡¯s so surprising about that?


    You should be thankful to be on the same team as her.¡±


    Among the new recruits, Gu Xiaoxi was a strong contender, something everyone knew!


    ¡°Thankful?


    What do I have to be thankful for?


    She¡¯s arrogant and brash.


    I heard that if it hadn¡¯t been for her, you could have had dinner with Young Master Quan yourself.


    But instead, he ended up taking her to the hospital.


    What¡¯s so pretty about her?


    Yet she still managed to catch the eye of a superior officer.¡±


    When it came to Quan Shaoqing, Zhang Jingyue looked up from her book, her expression stiffening.


    She turned back to study Gu Xiaoxi more carefully.


    At that moment, Gu Xiaoxi was playing with her phone with Song Jingyi, her delicate features enhanced by the military uniform, making everyone seem beautiful, yet she didn¡¯t stand out in any particular way.


    Nevertheless, she had a unique presence, casually sitting there; it was hard to ignore.


    Zhang Jingyue withdrew her gaze calmly and picked up her book to read again.


    She preferred to believe that Quan Shaoqing catching Gu Xiaoxi and then taking her to the hospital was merely an accident.


    In her mind, Quan Shaoqing was lofty, upright, and cordial.


    Just like the first time they met; despite her offense, he didn¡¯t take it to heart.


    How could a man like that have any interest in Gu Xiaoxi?


    Moreover, as far as she knew, Gu Xiaoxi was just a wild child orphan.


    If she were to compare herself to Gu Xiaoxi, wouldn¡¯t that be degrading herself?


    If Quan Shaoqing didn¡¯t even fancy her, how could he fancy Gu Xiaoxi?


    Comforting herself with these thoughts, she felt much more at peace.


    She picked up her book again and started reading intently.


    The bus drove for over three hours before finally stopping on a barren mountain.


    One of the welcoming officers, with a smile, told everyone, ¡°All of you, get off.


    You have ten minutes to disembark and gather by the roadside!¡±


    Everyone immediately put down their bags, got off, and lined up!


    Ye Qiran, squad leader of the Fourth Reconnaissance Platoon, swiftly assembled his troops and saluted the company commander, ¡°Assembly complete, awaiting the commander¡¯s orders!¡±


    The man referred to as the company commander, with a square jaw and a righteous air about him, stepped off the bus with a radiant smile, ¡°At ease!


    Let me introduce myself first.


    My name is Chen Zhigang.


    I welcome the elite among you new recruits to join my team.


    However, before you join, you will undergo an assessment.


    I have four parts of a map in my hand.


    You will divide into four small teams and reach the final destination on the map along the route as quickly as possible.


    The team that takes the least time will have dinner!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi raised an eyebrow, a look of understanding flashing in her eyes.


    This was the real initiation.


    Ye Qiran handed the maps to the four male soldiers at the front, ¡°You nine, form groups freely!


    Set off in ten minutes!¡±


    After ten minutes, the teams were formed.


    Everyone, holding a map, scattered in a rush.


    Everyone wanted to be at the forefront to secure a meal!

 Chapter 69 - 69 2 Overcome Motion with Stillness

    ?69: Chapter 2: Overcome Motion with Stillness 69: Chapter 2: Overcome Motion with Stillness Because it was a free team-up, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s team included three female soldiers.


    Qin Chu, Song Jingyi, Gu Xiaoxi, along with several other male soldiers.


    Male and female soldiers were trained separately, so being with a group of male soldiers, everyone was unfamiliar and didn¡¯t talk much.


    Gu Xiaoxi, Qin Chu, and Song Jingyi followed silently behind the male soldier who was holding the map.


    But the male soldiers were not unfamiliar with Gu Xiaoxi, the notorious little pervert, after all!


    Although they called her that, deep down everyone was very resentful.


    Especially after that assessment by Quan Shaoqing, where Gu Xiaoxi unexpectedly beat Zhang Jingyue at the last moment.


    The Goddess was bullied, so they, as her admirers, naturally wanted to seek justice for her.


    The male soldier holding the map was Zhao Yi, in cahoots with Chen Xuan, who tripped Gu Xiaoxi last time.


    They were both Zhang Jingyue¡¯s admirers.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s team had run about five kilometers when Zhao Yi suddenly stopped and told everyone to rest in place.


    At the same time, he said to the three female soldiers, ¡°I need to study the map.


    Gu Xiaoxi, Qin Chu, Song Jingyi, go see if there¡¯s a stream about three hundred meters ahead to confirm we haven¡¯t gone the wrong way.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi, Song Jingyi, and Qin Chu were surprised, as they, a group of men, were actually asking them, three women, to scout ahead.


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes slightly, pushed up her military cap, and gave Zhao Yi a glance, her gaze detached, showing little emotion.


    She waved her hand, leading Qin Chu and Song Jingyi away.


    From a distance, the sound of a stream could be heard; they were sure there was a stream ahead.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, their gazes seemed off; are they plotting something?¡± Qin Chu looked back warily at the six men huddled together looking at the map.


    ¡°They wouldn¡¯t be thinking of ditching us, would they!¡± Song Jingyi immediately widened her eyes, feeling it was possible.


    Gu Xiaoxi plucked a blade of foxtail grass and chewed on it carelessly, confidently saying, ¡°You¡¯ve guessed right.¡±


    From the moment Zhao Yi spoke to her, she knew their intentions.


    Hearing this, Song Jingyi¡¯s face changed drastically, ¡°These people have no decency at all, thinking of abandoning us and running off with the map.


    No way, I¡¯m going to steal the map from them, then ditch them!


    Tit for tat!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi remained silent, just continuing to walk toward the stream nearby.


    Seeing her not in a hurry, Song Jingyi instantly became anxious and grabbed Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s arm, ¡°Why are you still walking forward?


    If they run off with the map, how will we get back to camp?


    It¡¯s fine if we miss a meal, but we might even get punished!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi shook off Song Jingyi¡¯s anxious grasp and scoffed, ¡°Let them run with the map if they want to!


    I¡¯m not in a hurry to get back to camp.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    Qin Chu and Song Jingyi exclaimed in unison, staring at Gu Xiaoxi in bewilderment.


    Gu Xiaoxi lifted her delicate face and patted the shoulders of the two women, her smile sly, ¡°Remember, learn to counter stillness with stillness.¡±


    Qin Chu and Song Jingyi couldn¡¯t comprehend at all; everything was urgent, yet how could they counter it with stillness?


    Gu Xiaoxi simply smiled mysteriously and walked to the stream, where the water was clear and fish were swimming.


    She rolled up her trouser legs and took off her shoes, seemingly preparing to catch fish in the water.


    After sending Gu Xiaoxi away, Zhao Yi coerced the remaining male soldiers to run ahead without them.


    Just as Qin Chu expected, when she returned from the stream, there was no trace of the group of male soldiers under the big tree.


    Qin Chu¡¯s face darkened at once.


    They had actually left them behind!


    Song Jingyi stood on the bank, observing Gu Xiaoxi.


    She kept silent and seemed composed.


    Song Jingyi thought Gu Xiaoxi had a plan and decided not to worry anymore, just watching Gu Xiaoxi catch fish.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s fishing tools were no more than three pebbles.


    She eyed a large, fat fish hiding under the water, raised a stone in her hand, and threw it forward; the rock sliced through the air like a sharp knife, shooting toward the water surface.


    There was hardly a splash, and soon, the large, fat fish belly-up, lifelessly floated out of the water.


    Three times!


    Three fish were struck by Gu Xiaoxi, then tossed onto the bank.


    Song Jingyi was dumbfounded, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, how can you be so skilled?


    Teach me!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi glanced back at her, ¡°Clean the scales and insides of the fish, and I¡¯ll teach you!¡±


    Although Song Jingyi was puzzled by her actions, she chose to trust her.


    Instinctively, she felt Gu Xiaoxi had the makings of a leader.


    So, when Qin Chu returned, she saw Gu Xiaoxi putting on her shoes, while Song Jingyi was actually descaling fish by the stream.


    ¡°They really left!¡± Qin Chu looked at Gu Xiaoxi, anxiety swelling inside her.


    If they chased, they might catch up!


    Gu Xiaoxi put on her shoes and glanced at her, ¡°If they leave, they leave.


    Can¡¯t we survive without them?¡±


    ¡°The key thing is, we don¡¯t have a map!¡± Song Jingyi also chimed in anxiously.


    Gu Xiaoxi held her forehead, ¡°They ditched us, and it just so happens I wasn¡¯t planning on following them anyway.


    Qin Chu, go find some firewood, we need to prepare some food!¡±


    Qin Chu: ¡°...¡±


    Song Jingyi: ¡°...¡±


    Speaking of being hungry!


    They really were starving!


    They had only a little food at the canteen in the morning, which had long been digested by now!


    ¡°Song Jingyi, remember to clean the fish thoroughly.


    Qin Chu, gather more firewood!¡± Gu Xiaoxi gave a few instructions and then headed into the deep forest.


    Song Jingyi and Qin Chu exchanged glances.


    Forget it, those male soldiers had already run off and were long out of sight, catching up to them was uncertain.


    Since they were following Gu Xiaoxi, they had to trust her.


    Prepare the food then!


    They hoped she wouldn¡¯t screw them over!


    Just as Song Jingyi finished cleaning the fish, Gu Xiaoxi dragged two wild chickens back from the forest.


    Seeing this, Song Jingyi was at a loss for words.


    Was this girl planning to eat until she burst?


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t seem to care, ordering everyone around to start the fire, grill the fish, and also cook two beggar¡¯s chickens.


    Here, the three of them were busy preparing the meal, bustling with activity.


    Over there, the group with the map, hungry and exhausted, pushed toward the finish line with all their might.


    At this moment, the finish line.


    The Fourth Company of the Reconnaissance Company.


    Inside the canteen, Chen Zhigang passed a bottle of beer to Shao Changfeng.


    ¡°That Gu Xiaoxi, she seems pretty tame!


    Doesn¡¯t look like a troublemaker at all!¡± Chen Zhigang sat opposite Shao Changfeng, a look of perplexity on his face.


    Shao Changfeng smiled faintly, ¡°You¡¯ll see soon enough!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve encountered plenty of spoiled young ladies in my time.


    In the end, they all got trained into submission, I don¡¯t believe she can cause any big waves!¡±


    Shao Changfeng took a sip of beer and smiled meaningfully, ¡°Don¡¯t believe it?


    Just watch!¡±


    Shao Changfeng and Chen Zhigang were former classmates, now reunited, naturally, they got along very well!


    Chen Zhigang had heard of Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s name even before receiving the new soldiers.


    He was curious to see what skills Gu Xiaoxi truly possessed.


    It was nearing 5:30 in the afternoon.


    One by one, people with maps began reaching the endpoint.


    Everyone was so tired that they were gasping for breath and feeling hollow with hunger.


    Ye Qiran called roll and discovered that three female soldiers were missing.


    When he asked everyone, they all claimed not to have seen them.


    Especially Zhao Yi, who although felt guilty, still insisted that he had not seen Gu Xiaoxi.


    Ye Qiran was taken aback and immediately reported the situation to Chen Zhigang.


    Chen Zhigang flew into a rage on the spot.


    It was already drawing close to night, and the wilderness was dangerous after dark.


    Three female soldiers, if they were lost in the forest...


    ¡°Which team was Gu Xiaoxi originally part of!¡± Chen Zhigang roared at the group of new soldiers, ¡°On your first day at the company, you¡¯re already so disunited.


    Your team is missing people and you are clueless!


    Who has the map?


    Step forward!¡±


    Zhao Yi stepped out from the ranks, trembling.


    Chen Zhigang glared at Zhao Yi, hands on his hips, face livid with anger, ¡°I¡¯ve been leading soldiers for many years and have never seen anything like this.


    Especially when the male soldiers leave the female soldiers behind!


    You guys are so gallant!


    Don¡¯t you even understand the most basic notion of mutual assistance?


    What are they teaching you in the new soldiers¡¯ company?


    Where is the unity!¡±


    Ye Qiran glanced at the time, unable to help feeling anxious, ¡°Commander, it¡¯s almost dark.


    We need to start searching immediately!


    If they encounter danger, how will we explain to our superiors.¡±


    ¡°Zhao Yi, confess!


    Where did you split from them!¡± Chen Zhigang faced him, black with fury.


    Unable to withstand the commander¡¯s rage, Zhao Yi unfolded the map and pointed to the place where they had separated from Gu Xiaoxi.


    Chen Zhigang¡¯s hand trembled with anger as he glared at Zhao Yi, then turned to all the new soldiers and barked, ¡°All of you, stand at attention.


    I will deal with you after we find Gu Xiaoxi.¡±


    Everyone had been running all afternoon, so exhausted that they were falling apart, thinking they would have food once they got to the endpoint, but because of Zhao Yi, they couldn¡¯t even sit down.


    All eyes turned toward Zhao Yi, filled with furious anger!

 Chapter 70 - 70 3 She Will Play Better Than You!

    ?70: Chapter 3 She Will Play Better Than You!


    70: Chapter 3 She Will Play Better Than You!


    In a deep mountain forest, Gu Xiaoxi led everyone back the way they came, ready to return to the starting point.


    Qin Chu still couldn¡¯t understand why Gu Xiaoxi only let everyone eat the roasted fish, and the two steaming roast chickens were just wrapped in leaves and taken with them on the road.


    After walking five kilometers, they returned to the roadside.


    By then, it was already dark.


    Sitting on a grass heap by the roadside with her legs crossed, Gu Xiaoxi beckoned to Qin Chu, ¡°Come here, let¡¯s eat the roast chicken!¡±


    Qin Chu walked over to her and handed Gu Xiaoxi the roast chicken wrapped in banana leaves, ¡°I¡¯ve been hungry for a while, Gu Xiaoxi, you should really explain.


    Why are we returning to the starting point?


    Won¡¯t we get punished for this?¡±


    Song Jingyi was equally bewildered and had been holding in her questions all the way, but seeing Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s calm demeanor, she didn¡¯t ask.


    Gu Xiaoxi took the roast chicken, opened the banana leaves, and a scent of meat wafted up.


    Looking at the golden, oily roast chicken, Qin Chu and Song Jingyi swallowed hard.


    They had only eaten a bit of roast fish at noon and were already digested.


    Gu Xiaoxi tore off the chicken legs and handed one to each of them before the three of them sat cross-legged, nibbling by the roadside.


    ¡°Eat up fast!


    By my estimate, they should be finding us soon.


    We¡¯ll definitely get punished when we go back, so you two should prepare yourselves to be punished!¡± Gu Xiaoxi said while munching on a chicken wing.


    Qin Chu and Song Jingyi paused in their bites of chicken wing, ¡°What do you mean ¡®you two should prepare yourselves to be punished¡¯?


    What about you?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi shrugged, ¡°I¡¯m already prepared to be punished!¡±


    Fuck!


    Both Song Jingyi and Qin Chu almost choked on their chicken!


    This guy, still saying she didn¡¯t set them up.


    ¡°Hurry up and fill yourselves.


    There¡¯s definitely no chance of sleep tonight, so rest up while you can after eating,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said nonchalantly.


    ¡°It can¡¯t be as bad as you¡¯re saying!¡± Song Jingyi felt like crying, wishing she hadn¡¯t listened to Gu Xiaoxi.


    She originally thought Gu Xiaoxi had some good idea, but in the end, they just had to prepare to be punished.


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t say any more.


    The training in the formal army units was several times more brutal than for new recruits, especially in the Reconnaissance Company, and the first day for new recruits wasn¡¯t going to be easy to get through.


    Besides, Zhao Yi had committed an unforgivable major mistake¡ªabandoning his comrades, which was something that had to be punished.


    She was never one to be trifled with, and if someone wanted to play dirty with her, they¡¯d see if she wouldn¡¯t play them to death!


    The three had just finished a satisfying meal and then covered up their tracks.


    Gu Xiaoxi sat cross-legged on the grass heap, secretly practicing techniques, while Song Jingyi and Qin Chu lay beside her, watching the stars.


    The three of them appeared to be quite content!


    Half an hour later.


    A military jeep came speeding from a distance, and Chen Zhigang breathed a sigh of relief when he saw the three female soldiers not far away.


    Luckily, they knew to return the way they came, instead of running around in the forest like headless flies.


    Chen Zhigang slammed on the brakes, and the jeep roared to a stop in front of Gu Xiaoxi.


    He immediately reported to the others who had been dispatched to look for them, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi has been found, everyone fall back!¡±


    After that, Chen Zhigang pushed open the door and got out of the vehicle.


    The three women, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s team, were already lined up by the roadside, standing at attention with their heads up and stomachs in, saluting the company commander.


    Although they had found Gu Xiaoxi and her team, Chen Zhigang was still furious, barely glancing at them before he exploded, ¡°What the hell is wrong with you three?


    Why did you fall behind?¡±


    Especially when he saw Gu Xiaoxi, Chen Zhigang stared at her gnashing his teeth, ¡°You¡¯re supposed to be the top female soldier, and yet you can¡¯t even compete with a few men.


    What right do you have to be in our Reconnaissance Company?


    We don¡¯t need useless vases here!¡±


    A scathing rebuke!


    Gu Xiaoxi remained silent, her quietness making Chen Zhigang¡¯s anger flare up even more, as if punching cotton.


    Song Jingyi bit her lip, feeling wronged, but seeing Gu Xiaoxi staying quiet, she too endured and kept her eyes forward.


    Though Qin Chu was typically cold, she couldn¡¯t take this injustice and spoke up loudly, ¡°Report!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi inwardly cursed, sensing trouble.


    Chen Zhigang found his outlet for his anger and gave Qin Chu a ferocious smile, ¡°Speak!¡±


    ¡°They deliberately made up excuses to deceive us and then left us behind!¡± Qin Chu exclaimed loudly.


    ¡°Well said!


    I ask you, if you¡¯re abandoned by your comrades on the battlefield, won¡¯t you be as good as dead!¡± Chen Zhigang¡¯s words hit hard, and Qin Chu fell silent.


    Chen Zhigang turned to Gu Xiaoxi, his gaze sharp as a knife, ¡°You, speak!¡±


    ¡°Report to the company commander.


    Abandoned by our comrades, we are living very well!


    Thank you for your concern!¡± The words were spoken neither humbly nor arrogantly.


    Chen Zhigang was so angry he could hardly breathe, pointing at Gu Xiaoxi, his cheeks puffed red, not a single word came out.


    It took him a long time to catch his breath.


    ¡°Good!


    Very good!


    Indeed, you are still alive!¡±


    This answer was impeccable; he could not find a reason to blame them.


    That¡¯s right, if it weren¡¯t for them taking the same path back, he would have been in big trouble tonight!


    If something dangerous had happened, he could not shirk the responsibility!


    ¡°You three, wait until we get back, and I¡¯ll deal with you!¡± Chen Zhigang glared, his eyes bulging with rage.


    He climbed back into the jeep and roared at the three of Gu Xiaoxi.


    ¡°Hurry up and get in the vehicle!¡±


    Qin Chu and Song Jingyi looked at Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi gave Chen Zhigang a slight smile and immediately ran towards the jeep, ¡°Thank you, company commander!¡±


    Qin Chu and Song Jingyi wiped the cold sweat from their brows, unable to help but exclaim that this company commander was far more fierce than the platoon commanders in the recruit camp.


    An hour¡¯s drive on the road would require at least four hours of mountain trail according to the map.


    Zhao Yi and the others thought they would get to eat upon arriving, but they ended up without a meal, making everyone wait for Gu Xiaoxi to return.


    What surprised them even more was that when Gu Xiaoxi came back...


    She was personally picked up in the company commander¡¯s vehicle!


    Zhao Yi stood in front of the queue, watching as Gu Xiaoxi nonchalantly stepped out of the company commander¡¯s vehicle.


    The young girl tilted her head slightly upward, her silhouette under the moonlight was as proud and straight as an ancient pine.


    Her military cap hid her dark eyes, revealing only her thin lips, which curved into an almost imperceptible smile.


    Zhao Yi was so livid he felt like he could spit blood; he even suspected that Gu Xiaoxi had deliberately set him up, framing him as disloyal, which is why she never resisted when he made up an excuse to leave her behind and just went off!


    Chen Zhigang had never been this angry in his many years of training recruits.


    As soon as the car stopped, Gu Xiaoxi and the other two had rejoined the ranks, standing straight in line.


    Ye Qiran observed Gu Xiaoxi, feeling puzzled.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s demeanor was obviously low-key, yet he always sensed that within that low profile there was a different kind of high profile.


    Just like in today¡¯s first assessment, she fell out of the queue, which was not her fault, but it all started because of her.


    Yet, she acted very compliantly, without a trace of rebellious pride!


    He even had the illusion that this entire incident today might have been deliberate on her part.


    However, as he didn¡¯t know Gu Xiaoxi well enough, he wasn¡¯t sure!


    One thing was certain, though: none of the recruits that evening were going to escape Chen Zhigang¡¯s punishment!


    ...


    At that moment, the veteran soldiers of the fourth platoon watched the thirty or forty new recruits with curiosity, as if watching monkeys.


    After all, it took something impressive to make Chen Zhigang lose his temper.


    Chen Zhigang was known for his good temper within the fourth platoon.


    Just as Gu Xiaoxi predicted, forget eating, nobody even got a drink of water.


    Chen Zhigang commanded without mercy, ¡°One hundred push-ups each, fifty for the women.


    Two hundred frog jumps for everyone!


    Ten kilometers of running carrying twenty kilograms.


    Only after that can you sleep!¡±


    Ye Qiran picked up the whistle and blew it, ¡°Everyone get ready, push-ups!¡±


    Zhang Jingyue¡¯s complexion by Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s side slightly paled; exhausted from the day¡¯s fatigue and lack of food, she was now run-down.


    The other male soldiers weren¡¯t faring much better!


    They all gritted their teeth with hatred towards Zhao Yi.


    And the rest of Zhao Yi¡¯s group also felt ashamed.


    Shao Changfeng stood at the entrance of the dormitory building, looking at the thirty-something people on the drill field, a smile curling at the corners of his mouth, ¡°It looks like someone has pissed her off again!¡±


    Ye Qiran, the fourth platoon¡¯s sniper king, stood beside Shao Changfeng.


    Hearing his words, she felt baffled!


    Shao Changfeng turned around, patted Ye Qiran on the shoulder, and smiled faintly, ¡°See that soldier?


    Try not to provoke her in the future!


    Otherwise, if you end up at a disadvantage, don¡¯t tell me I didn¡¯t warn you!¡±


    Others might not know Gu Xiaoxi, but he understood her better than anyone.


    If Zhao Yi ran, it would be strange if she couldn¡¯t catch up!


    With her abilities, she could easily beat six or seven male soldiers to the ground, teeth scattered everywhere.


    This only meant one thing: don¡¯t think about playing her!


    She¡¯ll outplay you every time!


    Ye Qiran leaned at the window, looking deep into the eyes of the third girl in the first row on the training field.

 Chapter 71 - 71 4 The More I Think the More Confused I Get!

    ?71: Chapter 4 The More I Think, the More Confused I Get!


    71: Chapter 4 The More I Think, the More Confused I Get!


    This was a night when everyone was so exhausted they felt close to death.


    The male soldiers couldn¡¯t stand it, let alone a bunch of girls.


    At three o¡¯clock in the morning, everyone had finally completed the day¡¯s training tasks.


    Near the end, everyone was almost out of breath.


    Especially since everyone was starving.


    Fortunately, this wasn¡¯t like the new recruit company where there was no food to eat in the middle of the night!


    At three in the morning, there was still enough food prepared for everyone.


    In the cafeteria, a group of people wolfed down their food like starved wolves.


    Gu Xiaoxi had just sat down at the dining table.


    Song Jingyi wanted to sit next to her but someone had snatched the seat before her.


    Zhao Yi plopped down next to Gu Xiaoxi, biting into his bun ferociously while glaring at her with fury, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, did you do this to me on purpose?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi leisurely picked up her chopsticks, biting into her bun with an indifferent expression on her face, ¡°Aren¡¯t you the one who deliberately left me behind?¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Zhao Yi was so angry he was practically steaming from his seven orifices!


    Gu Xiaoxi, saying this, was admitting that she did it on purpose!


    ¡°You¡¯re ruthless!


    Gu Xiaoxi, I¡¯m not finished with you!¡± Zhao Yi clenched his fist, the bun in his hand squished and crumbled.


    Gu Xiaoxi just smiled at him slightly, but her smile was somewhat cold, ¡°I¡¯m ready anytime!¡±


    Zhao Yi, furious, lifted his fist as if to strike but was held back by Chen Xuan who grabbed his arm, ¡°Zhao Yi, don¡¯t act rashly!


    The company commander was angry this afternoon, and if he decides he doesn¡¯t want you, you might be sent back to the new recruit company, and then no good company will dare to take you!¡±


    Chen Xuan¡¯s words instantly made Zhao Yi angry yet unable to protest.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, from now on we are comrades in the same company, I hope you can get along with everyone!¡± Zhang Jingyue raised her head, a trace of disgust in her eyes as she looked at Gu Xiaoxi, hostility appearing for the first time in her usually untroubled gaze.


    Gu Xiaoxi gently lifted her chin, her eyes smiling, but she spoke with a serene tone, ¡°Of course!


    I will certainly get along well with everyone.


    It was he who left me behind this afternoon.


    I didn¡¯t catch up, my apologies!¡±


    She was never someone to bow and scrape, although she also wanted to maintain good relationships with her comrades.


    However, if they intended to put her down,


    Sorry!


    She would never lie down and let them walk all over her.


    Zhang Jingyue¡¯s face turned red with anger.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s words, although polite, clearly emphasized that she wasn¡¯t the one at fault today!


    Was she even implying that Zhang Jingyue had blamed the wrong person?


    Gu Xiaoxi took a few bites, feeling upset and finding it hard to swallow.


    She divided the uneaten food in her bowl between Song Jingyi and Qin Chu, walking out of the cafeteria alone with a bun in hand.


    (As food waste was not allowed in the military, unfortunately, her two friends had to suffer.)


    On the large lawn outside the cafeteria, Chen Zhigang was still standing there!


    It seemed he was waiting for them to finish eating to allocate dormitories.


    When Gu Xiaoxi approached, he raised an eyebrow on the sly, ¡°Aren¡¯t you hungry?¡±


    ¡°Reporting to the company commander, I¡¯m full of anger!¡± Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t hide her feelings one bit.


    Chen Zhigang placed his hands on his hips, suddenly interested, ¡°Everyone is full from exhaustion tonight, why are you full of anger?


    Who upset you?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s bright eyes blinked but she did not answer Chen Zhigang¡¯s question, ¡°Reporting, may I make a phone call?¡±


    Chen Zhigang looked her up and down, her slender figure standing in the night wind like a proudly blooming White Plum.


    It was just a glance, but it strangely captivated him with a cold and lonely beauty that was hard to look away from.


    ¡°You may!¡± he said instinctively.


    Gu Xiaoxi took out her phone, moved away from Chen Zhigang, and then dialed Quan Shaoqing¡¯s number.


    In the middle of the night


    Quan Shaoqing woke from his sleep as his phone kept ringing non-stop.


    He picked it up and saw that it was Gu Xiaoxi.


    He was somewhat surprised!


    If he remembered correctly, Gu Xiaoxi hadn¡¯t paid any attention to him for over a week.


    Why had she suddenly called, and in the middle of the night!


    He instinctively answered the call and heard Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s cold voice as soon as the line connected.


    ¡°I¡¯m in a bad mood!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing got up from his bed!


    ¡°Why is that?¡±


    ¡°Because of you!¡±


    ¡°What did I do to upset you again?¡± Quan Shaoqing was utterly confused.


    ¡°Because I am still training right now, while you¡¯re sound asleep!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s face darkened!


    That reason...


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, remember the spirit and belief of Number Seventeen!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi gritted her teeth, ¡°This is between you and me!¡±


    ¡°How did I offend you again!¡±


    ¡°Because you were sleeping!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing simply shut his mouth and stopped talking!


    He admitted his cowardice, okay?


    There was a long silence on the phone.


    ¡°Did you say something to Yi Chentian?¡± Gu Xiaoxi took a while to calm down.


    Quan Shaoqing was startled for a moment, not denying it, ¡°Your priority now should be training!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the reason I don¡¯t have crabs to eat, and now I¡¯ve lost my boyfriend.


    Are you going to compensate me?¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s fiery voice came from the other end of the phone.


    Quan Shaoqing couldn¡¯t help but laugh, ¡°What do you care about more, the crabs or your boyfriend?¡±


    ¡°Both!¡± Gu Xiaoxi replied, still feeling unappeased, ¡°Also, I really hate you right now, so please stay away from me.¡±


    Then, the phone was abruptly hung up.


    Whew!


    Gu Xiaoxi let out a long sigh of relief.


    She immediately felt much more comfortable in her heart.


    Indeed, when upset, one should vent it out, since all these issues were caused by Quan Shaoqing.


    He deserved the midnight scare.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s anger was so clear that Chen Zhigang could hear it from a distance.


    When Gu Xiaoxi returned after the call, everyone had not yet finished dinner and regrouped.


    Gu Xiaoxi sat cross-legged on the grass, and Chen Zhigang coughed and curiously asked, ¡°Who were you calling?


    Being so fierce in the middle of the night!¡±


    ¡°My guardian?¡± Gu Xiaoxi was naturally honest and forthright, and although Chen Zhigang had been fierce in the afternoon, once the anger had passed, he seemed quite decent.


    So, she simply started chatting with him.


    ¡°Your guardian, is he forcing you to join the army?¡± Otherwise, why would one disturb others in the middle of the night, seeking psychological comfort!


    ¡°Of course!¡± Gu Xiaoxi lifted her beautiful eyelids, looking at Chen Zhigang, ¡°Captain, since training is over, if you could assign dormitories early and let me go first!


    I¡¯m sweaty all over, I need to go back and wash up!¡±


    Chen Zhigang gave Gu Xiaoxi a once-over, noticed indeed her hair was sweaty, before pointing to Dormitory 701.


    ¡°Go ahead!


    You don¡¯t need to regroup.


    Tomorrow morning, everyone is allowed to miss exercise, wake up at seven!¡±


    ¡°Alright!


    Thank you, Captain, for your consideration!¡± Gu Xiaoxi quickly scrambled up from the ground, then remembered something, ¡°Where is my personal luggage?¡±


    She remembered that when they got off the truck, no one had brought anything with them!


    ¡°It¡¯s in your dormitory, all non-essential items have been confiscated!


    Just head straight to the dormitory!¡± Chen Zhigang said.


    Gu Xiaoxi gave Chen Zhigang a respectful military salute and immediately ran towards the dormitory building.


    It was actually quite unexpected!


    The Captain was warm-hearted and truly considerate of everyone!


    Although, the initial intimidation was a bit harsh, he was still able to show empathy for everyone.


    Dormitory 701, a standard four-person room.


    What surprised her was that the dormitory was equipped with a computer, desk, bookshelf, wardrobe, shoe cabinet, and even paper and pens!


    This place was just like entering a high-level school!


    Bathroom, washroom, shower room, all available!


    Seeing this, she couldn¡¯t help but curve her lips into a faint smile; though the training was tough, she liked the treatment!


    This hardship was worth it!


    Meanwhile, Gu Xiaoxi was in a great mood, taking a bath and going to sleep.


    On the other hand, Quan Shaoqing was totally unable to sleep!


    Anybody would feel upset when someone they cared about said they hated them!


    Thinking that Gu Xiaoxi was in some kind of trouble, he called Lin Mi in the middle of the night to ask about her recent situation.


    Lin Mi, still in a daze from sleep, quickly gathered the information and reported on what Gu Xiaoxi had been up to lately.


    ¡°Superior officer, the new recruits¡¯ company has been dividing troops.


    Miss Gu has probably been assigned to a company.


    She should have gone to the Infantry Reconnaissance Company!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing paused for a moment, no wonder Gu Xiaoxi said she hadn¡¯t slept at night; she had gone to the Infantry Reconnaissance Company¡ªwith the most intense training.


    After hanging up the phone, Quan Shaoqing thought of the crabs and Yi Chentian that Gu Xiaoxi mentioned, and suddenly felt particularly bad.


    It had only been a few days, and she dared to like someone else?


    Under the thick night, the man¡¯s upright silhouette was wrapped in darkness.


    He suddenly remembered the passionate kiss in the wine cellar that evening.


    All at once, he felt somewhat irritated and restless, stepping forward to pick up a cigarette from the table and lighting it up on the balcony.


    Since when had he started having those evil thoughts about Gu Xiaoxi?


    That kiss was like a candy luring him in, and once he had tasted the sweetness, he found himself increasingly unable to control the longing.


    And to think, hearing the news that she liked someone else made him angry?


    When had he started having those improper thoughts about Gu Xiaoxi?


    He was eight years older than her!


    She had just come of age!


    The more he thought about it, the more chaotic his mind became!

 Chapter 72 - 72 5 Ye Qiran

    ?72: Chapter 5 Ye Qiran 72: Chapter 5 Ye Qiran In the evening, we were assigned to dormitories, and I was honored to share one with Gu Xiaoxi, Song Jingyi, and Qin Chu, plus a new recruit, Li Chun!


    Li Chun, I had never met her before.


    Even though we were in the same new recruit company, we weren¡¯t in the same class, so it was normal not to know each other.


    After Gu Xiaoxi took a shower, the other three returned to the dorm.


    ¡°Hello everyone, my name is Li Chun!¡± The girl had a bob that reached her ears, a sweet face, and especially a pair of pitch-black eyes that seemed as clean as if they had been washed by spring water.


    ¡°Hi there!¡± Gu Xiaoxi waved at her.


    ¡°I know you!


    Everyone calls you ¡®the little freak¡¯!¡± Li Chun, with her bag on her back, ran excitedly over to Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°I¡¯m so happy to be in the same dorm as you!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi raised an eyebrow and patted her shoulder, ¡°Go take a shower and get some sleep early!


    Today has been tiring enough.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi wasn¡¯t planning to practice techniques either, at three in the morning, there were only a few hours left to sleep before getting up.


    By this time, Song Jingyi and Qin Chu had already rushed to secure the bathroom.


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Li Chun looked very happy, simply because she was in the same dorm as Gu Xiaoxi.


    Of course, her placement in the fourth squad was not due to skill but connections.


    The same went for being placed in a dorm with Gu Xiaoxi, also thanks to connections.


    According to her grandfather¡¯s words, being with the strong could stimulate one¡¯s own potential.


    Song Jingyi didn¡¯t win the race against Qin Chu and had to let her shower first.


    She walked towards Li Chun with a washbasin in hand, ¡°Did you bring any snacks?¡±


    Li Chun giggled regretfully and shook her head, ¡°I did bring some, but the company commander confiscated them.¡±


    Song Jingyi complained, ¡°Ah, I didn¡¯t get enough to eat for dinner!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi, lying on the bed and lifting her head, said, ¡°You ate my portion too, and you¡¯re still not full?¡±


    ¡°From yesterday afternoon until three in the morning, I was almost starved to death.


    I could eat another portion!¡± Song Jingyi exclaimed, thumping her chest.


    Gu Xiaoxi rolled her eyes, ¡°Glutton!¡±


    They, after all, had eaten a few chickens, while others could go without food for a day!


    ...


    Gu Xiaoxi took out her cell phone from under the quilt, opened her messages, and then lingered on Yi Chentian¡¯s thread for a long time before moving to Quan Shaoqing¡¯s name and sending him a message.


    [I want to eat crab!]


    Then, she comfortably rolled over to sleep.


    As for what Song Jingyi and Li Chun talked about afterward, that was unknown.


    In the early morning, at five-thirty, various whistle sounds were deafening, probably the older troops in training.


    The new recruits were granted some leniency by the company commander due to last night¡¯s punishment, so they could sleep until seven.


    Because of this, most new recruits could sleep through the piercing whistles.


    When Gu Xiaoxi woke at six, she eventually couldn¡¯t resist getting up; it was just too noisy.


    Since she often practiced techniques, she didn¡¯t have much need for sleep.


    Six hours was generally enough; in special circumstances, she could get by on three or four hours.


    After getting up, she stood in front of the sink, looking at her shoulder-length hair through the mirror, feeling it was getting a bit long.


    It was particularly uncomfortable when sweating.


    She thought she needed a haircut.


    After grooming.


    She tidied up the interior and walked out of the dormitory building.


    Just at the training ground intersection, they ran into Shao Changfeng.


    He seemed to be leading the morning practice.


    Upon seeing Gu Xiaoxi, he stopped, let everyone continue training, and then ran up to Gu Xiaoxi and curiously asked, ¡°Why are you up so early?


    Aren¡¯t you tired?¡±


    ¡°Tired!


    But your training is so noisy!¡± Gu Xiaoxi took a breath of fresh air, looked around, and asked, ¡°Does this army base have a barber shop?¡±


    She remembered that in the new recruits¡¯ platoon, they would have their hair cut uniformly.


    She hoped it was the same here.


    ¡°What for!


    You want a haircut?¡± Shao Changfeng found it odd, as generally girls wanted their hair as long as possible, and the mention of a haircut would make them react as if they were being sent to the guillotine.


    But here was Gu Xiaoxi actively wanting a haircut!


    ¡°It¡¯s too long!


    It¡¯s hot!¡±


    ¡°No barber shop!


    We usually cut each other¡¯s hair!¡± Shao Changfeng thought for a moment, ¡°If you want something more professional, you¡¯d need to find a specialist!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi raised an eyebrow, ¡°Professional?


    Who should I look for?¡±


    Shao Changfeng chuckled, ¡°Me!


    I often cut everyone¡¯s hair, top-notch skills!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s face turned dark, ¡°You¡¯ve only cut men¡¯s hair, is it the same?¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t trust me then forget it!¡± Shao Changfeng huffed, ¡°If you have nothing to do, go help out in the kitchen.


    The kitchen¡¯s also quite busy in the morning.


    Let me tell you foodie, the kitchen boss and Old Hu are best buddies.


    You¡¯re lucky.


    Just now, the old platoon leader was still asking me who Gu Xiaoxi is!


    He¡¯s been instructed by Hu Yidao to take care of you!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s such a good thing?¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s heart leapt with joy, this was great.


    ¡°Then, Platoon Leader Shao, goodbye!


    I¡¯m off to help in the kitchen!¡±


    Shao Changfeng waved at her.


    Ye Qiran suddenly patted his shoulder from behind Shao Changfeng, startling Shao Changfeng almost into a jump.


    ¡°You¡¯re quite nice to the girl.


    Got your eye on her?¡± Ye Qiran said with a grin.


    He was the marksmanship king and Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s new platoon leader.


    ¡°Knew her from before, sort of a half-friend!


    Got a problem with that?¡± Shao Changfeng replied with a cool tone and a stern face, showing no signs of anything unusual.


    Ye Qiran chuckled, ¡°How dare I?


    This girl will soon be under my command.


    If you like her, you¡¯d better bribe me well!¡±


    Shao Changfeng¡¯s face turned darker!


    He slapped Ye Qiran on the forehead, ¡°I¡¯ll just watch quietly as you get sorted out by her in the future!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s just sour grapes on your part, isn¡¯t it!¡±


    Shao Changfeng sized up Ye Qiran from head to toe, ¡°I think you¡¯re the sour grape.¡±


    ¡°Anyway, even if you want some, I won¡¯t give it to you!¡± Ye Qiran smiled wickedly.


    Shao Changfeng¡¯s face went completely green, ¡°Shameless!¡± He dared to tease him.


    ¡°Ye Qiran!¡± Shao Changfeng immediately called his name with a cold face.


    Ye Qiran saluted respectfully to his superior, his expression serious, ¡°Sir!¡±


    ¡°Go get ready for the new recruits¡¯ swearing-in ceremony this morning!¡± Shao Changfeng ordered.


    Ye Qiran grinned, ¡°Boss, I was already prepared!


    Anything else you need?


    If not, I¡¯m going to check on my soldiers!¡±


    Shao Changfeng waved him off impatiently, this guy¡¯s skin was thicker than city walls.


    With Shao Changfeng¡¯s permission, Ye Qiran scurried off to follow Gu Xiaoxi.


    Just after Ye Qiran left, Zhang Jingyue also came down from upstairs.


    ¡°Good morning, Platoon Leader!¡± Zhang Jingyue greeted with a sweet smile.


    Seeing she was up too, Shao Changfeng pointed towards the kitchen, ¡°Go help out over there!¡±

 Chapter 73 - 73 6 I Cant Be a Boyfriend

    ?73: Chapter 6: I Can¡¯t Be a Boyfriend?


    73: Chapter 6: I Can¡¯t Be a Boyfriend?


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, wait up!¡±


    Upon hearing someone calling her, Gu Xiaoxi turned her head back and saw the sunny-faced Ye Qiran running toward her.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Gu Xiaoxi curiously asked.


    ¡°Let me introduce myself first, I am your squad leader,¡± Ye Qiran said with a smile.


    Gu Xiaoxi raised an eyebrow, easily inferring from his smile that he was a generous, lively, and warmly cheerful person.


    She saluted him, ¡°Hello, squad leader!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re on your way to help in the cafeteria, right?


    It so happens that I¡¯m also going,¡± Ye Qiran said with a smile.


    Just at that moment, Ye Qiran spotted Zhang Jingyue.


    He immediately greeted her with a beaming smile, ¡°Zhang Jingyue, we¡¯ve met before.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi touched her nose and glanced sideways at the two of them, straightened her back, and quickly walked towards the cafeteria.


    She overheard the conversation between Zhang Jingyue and Ye Qiran.


    ¡°Have we met before?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I saw you at the national banquet last time!¡± Ye Qiran replied with a grin.


    Zhang Jingyue gave him a glance, her gaze indifferent, seemingly somewhat incredulous.


    ¡°That day I was outside the state banquet, and at the end, I saw you and your father!¡± Ye Qiran said, slightly embarrassed.


    Feeling the somewhat cold gaze from Zhang Jingyue, his smile froze on his face.


    His intention was just to say hello, but the moment the words came out, the atmosphere took an awkward turn.


    Why did it seem like he was trying to ingratiate himself with her?


    But that wasn¡¯t his intention at all!


    Ye Qiran scratched his head, feeling embarrassed.


    He looked up to see Gu Xiaoxi had walked further away, and hastily said to Zhang Jingyue, ¡°In the future, I¡¯ll be your squad leader, so feel free to come to me if you need anything!


    It¡¯s getting late now, we should hurry to the cafeteria to help.¡±


    With that, Ye Qiran ran to catch up with Gu Xiaoxi.


    At the cafeteria entrance.


    Gu Xiaoxi saw that inside there were already three or four people busy arranging dishes and setting plates.


    Upon seeing Gu Xiaoxi come in, they didn¡¯t hesitate to put her to work.


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t see the head of the chef squad, but helping out in the morning allowed her to get acquainted with many of the veteran soldiers.


    Everyone was straightforward, and by the time breakfast came, the kitchen work was nearly done.


    At the time for meal distribution, all the new recruits were already up.


    Following the awkward moment in front of Zhang Jingyue, Ye Qiran would no longer bring up the matter of knowing Zhang Jingyue in the past.


    After all, being scorned by a woman would wound any man¡¯s pride.


    In the morning under the national flag, they took their oath.


    Thirty-six new recruits, each standing straight as an arrow.


    With the red flag fluttering and their military uniforms on, they exuded an iron-willed and heroic demeanor, their voices thundering.


    ¡°I swear, today I officially become a member of the Reconnaissance Company, I will discipline myself strictly, remain steadfast in patriotism, and foster solidarity and brotherhood...¡±


    The long oath was read out.


    Over the entire training field, their loud voices resonated, creating a majestic atmosphere that was exhilarating.


    Facing the dawn, their solemn faces shone bright, casting their silhouettes like towering mountains, awe-inspiring and resolute.


    Chen Zhigang stood before everyone, his expression stern as he spoke loudly, ¡°Now that you¡¯re here, you must remember your oath.


    Unity and brotherhood, for the country and the people.


    I don¡¯t care what you were like before, but from this moment on, anyone who forgets their oath or violates military regulations will not be forgiven.


    Zhao Yi, step forward!¡±


    Zhao Yi, who was in the ranks, ran forward.


    Chen Zhigang swept him with a cold glance, ¡°Considering your first day¡¯s performance, I am giving you a demerit, write a self-criticism report of five thousand words to be read in front of the collective.¡±


    Zhao Yi immediately saluted, ¡°Yes, sir!¡± This punishment was much better than being sent back to the new recruit company.


    As he returned to the ranks, he glanced at Zhang Jingyue, grateful that she had found someone to speak for him!


    And when he looked at Gu Xiaoxi, a hint of viciousness flashed in his eyes.


    Gu Xiaoxi suddenly felt a chill on her neck as if she was being stared at by a venomous tongue.


    She turned her head to look, and Zhao Yi was already coolly back in formation.


    It was unexpected for her!


    Zhao Yi had actually stayed.


    After the oath-taking ceremony, the company commander gave everyone three minutes to return to their dorms and change back into training attire.


    Amidst the urgency of the whistles, everyone sprang into action.


    Gu Xiaoxi, whose speed was always swift, was closely followed by Qin Chu and Song Jingyi.


    However, at the last roll call, Li Chun turned out to be the slowest among the women soldiers.


    Chen Zhigang looked at the time and his tone became stern as he rebuked, ¡°I said three minutes, and it took you a whole six minutes to assemble.¡±


    Then, there were those who muttered their grievances.


    ¡°Report, not everyone took six minutes.


    I only took three minutes!¡± said a physically fit male soldier.


    Chen Zhigang, with his hands on his hips, raised an eyebrow and scoffed, ¡°Is that so?


    When you¡¯re out on a mission, do you need to wait for your comrades to join you?¡±


    His question left everyone speechless.


    Li Chun apologetically looked at Gu Xiaoxi, his eyes instinctively welling up with tears.


    Without any hesitation, Chen Zhigang pointed at Li Chun, ¡°That soldier!


    You were the last one.


    Everyone from your dormitory, step forward!


    Each of you do fifty push-ups!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi, Song Jingyi, and Qin Chu stepped forward.


    The four of them lined up.


    Li Chun, feeling ashamed and at a loss, immediately tried to explain, ¡°Report, this is my fault.


    I alone should be punished!¡±


    ¡°You are comrades-in-arms.


    Because of your delay, the mission couldn¡¯t be completed.


    Your group is a failure.


    Do you think you¡¯re so noble?


    Idiot!


    Prepare for push-ups!¡±


    Chen Zhigang¡¯s voice boomed.


    The word ¡°idiot¡± caused everyone¡¯s faces to change color.


    Li Chun bit his lip, tears in his eyes, as if he was about to cry.


    Chen Zhigang, as if he hadn¡¯t seen it, grew even colder.


    Gu Xiaoxi turned her head and glared at Li Chun, who immediately fought back the tears in his eyes.


    Gu Xiaoxi was the first to lead everyone in getting ready for push-ups.


    This time, it was because she had always been used to going it alone, accustomed to others keeping pace with her, that she completely forgot about the slowest among them, Li Chun.


    Li Chun, suppressing his feelings of injustice, began doing push-ups alongside Gu Xiaoxi!


    The rest didn¡¯t escape punishment either, each of them doing thirty push-ups.


    After the first round of punishment.


    They began a new training exercise.


    Climbing the hook ladder, three hundred times in two hours was a familiar drill for the recruits, but even so, three hundred times in one hour was challenging for everyone; by the end, it had taken two and a half hours to complete.


    Especially some female soldiers, who took nearly three hours.


    When Chen Zhigang saw this, he shook his head and couldn¡¯t help but sigh, ¡°This batch, the disparity in strength is enormous!¡±


    Shao Changfeng smiled, ¡°It¡¯s the same every year.


    Not everyone here got in on their strength alone.¡±


    ¡°...¡± Chen Zhigang had to admit, Shao Changfeng was right.


    He looked interestedly towards Gu Xiaoxi, who wasn¡¯t too far away.


    She was cheering on Li Chun, who was trailing behind.


    ¡°This girl¡¯s physical capabilities are somewhat freakish.


    No wonder she¡¯s called the little freak.


    I¡¯m actually curious about what her limit is!¡±


    Shao Changfeng¡¯s eyes deepened, ¡°You won¡¯t find out easily, she¡¯s more freakish than you can imagine.¡±


    Chen Zhigang was intrigued, his eyebrows raised as he looked into Shao Changfeng¡¯s eyes, ¡°You know her so well?¡±


    Seeing the playful look in Chen Zhigang¡¯s eyes, Shao Changfeng touched his forehead, speechless, ¡°You¡¯re overthinking it!¡±


    He couldn¡¯t fathom why everybody thought he had special feelings for Gu Xiaoxi, as if he fancied her!


    Chen Zhigang smiled meaningfully.


    **


    Command center.


    Quan Shaoqing had just finished a meeting early in the morning.


    And left his office.


    At that time, Lin Mi also came back from buying groceries, her hands carrying five or six plump crabs and a large lobster.


    At the doorstep of Quan Shaoqing¡¯s apartment.


    Lin Mi handed him a big bag of groceries.


    Curiously peering into his place, she thought he had guests over.


    ¡°Superior officer, do you have someone over?


    Why buy so much food?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing took the groceries and gestured for Lin Mi to come in, ¡°Perfect timing, if you¡¯re free this morning, come in and help me out.¡±


    ¡°Sure thing!¡± Lin Mi cheerfully entered.


    She didn¡¯t see anyone inside.


    ¡°Stop looking.¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s cool gaze held a touch of helplessness, ¡°Our family member, that boyfriend of hers, broke up.


    She called me in the middle of the night, asking for crabs!¡±


    Lin Mi suddenly understood and looked at Quan Shaoqing with a smirk, ¡°I told you so!


    You shouldn¡¯t meddle.


    It¡¯s normal for a girl to be in a relationship.


    She¡¯s already an adult, and Yi Chentian isn¡¯t bad at all!


    He comes from a good family, looks attractive, and he can cook well.¡±


    At that, a spark flared in Quan Shaoqing¡¯s eyes, ¡°So you¡¯re saying, I can¡¯t cook well?¡±


    Lin Mi touched his nose, puzzled by Quan Shaoqing¡¯s temper, ¡°You¡¯re a guardian.


    Your care for her is that of family.


    Can that compare to a boyfriend?¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯re saying, I can¡¯t be a boyfriend?¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s face darkened as he glared at Lin Mi, as if he could bore a hole through him.


    Lin Mi coughed, he was just making conversation!


    He hadn¡¯t anticipated Quan Shaoqing being so straightforward.


    ¡°Superior officer, I advise you to give it some thought.


    I don¡¯t think you¡¯re suited to be Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s boyfriend,¡± Lin Mi spoke frankly.


    If Quan Shaoqing fell for Gu Xiaoxi, it definitely wouldn¡¯t be a good thing.

 Chapter 74 - 74 7

    ?74: Chapter 7 Looks a lot worse than he did!


    74: Chapter 7 Looks a lot worse than he did!


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s brows furrowed, and his demeanor suddenly turned cold, ¡°Speak properly, what am I not suited for?


    Age?¡±


    Lin Mi wiped the cold sweat off his forehead.


    Goodness!


    He shouldn¡¯t have spouted nonsense!


    ¡°Superior officer, age indeed poses a problem, as does the generation gap.


    She¡¯s only eighteen now, if she were to get married, you would have to wait at least another four years.


    By then you¡¯ll be thirty.


    The old lady will surely urge you to go on blind dates.


    I have received orders from the old lady¡ªif you don¡¯t get married, she will bring girls to the army base for you to meet.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s face darkened as he glared at Lin Mi, then waved him away impatiently, ¡°You may go!¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need my help anymore?¡± Lin Mi eyed the crabs, having bought so many, he surely deserved one.


    ¡°No need!¡± Quan Shaoqing opened the door directly and shooed Lin Mi out.


    He had seen through him; this guy was a traitor, not on his side.


    (A reader got it right; he should be banished to the Frontier.)


    Lin Mi was pushed to the door, looking at the tightly shut door, he touched his nose, feeling aggrieved.


    What did he say wrong?


    In this society, speaking the truth seems to make you despised.


    Indeed, truth hurts!


    ...


    Gu Xiaoxi decided to let Song Jingyi cut her hair during the lunch break.


    As a result, she let out a scream in the dormitory.


    ¡°Song Jingyi!


    Damn it, do you even know how?¡± Gu Xiaoxi clutched her head, her hair was cut into a huge hole on the top, unevenly short and long.


    Song Jingyi, frightened by Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s gloomy face, nearly cut her face with the scissors, ¡°I-I...


    I¡¯ve never done this!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi kicked her out and pointed to Qin Chu, who was reading at the desk.


    Qin Chu immediately waved his hands, ¡°I can¡¯t, my skills are even worse than hers!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi turned to look at Li Chun, who showed an expression uglier than crying.


    Gu Xiaoxi, looking at the mess on her head in the mirror, was on the verge of breakdown.


    If she had known Song Jingyi was this bad, she would never have let her do it.


    Now she was turned into a chicken¡¯s nest.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, should I go next door and ask if someone can help?¡± Song Jingyi offered an awkward, ingratiating smile, trying her best to make amends.


    Gu Xiaoxi glared at her, grinding her teeth, ¡°Then hurry up and go!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi, speechlessly sitting in front of the stool, picked up the scissors and snipped twice.


    Crap!


    It was even worse than before!


    She fainted in the restroom!


    Just as Gu Xiaoxi was getting anxious, Shao Changfeng¡¯s voice came from outside, ¡°Is Gu Xiaoxi there?¡±


    Li Chun immediately stood up and saluted the platoon leader, ¡°Reporting for duty!¡±


    ¡°Tell her, someone is looking for her in the reception room,¡± Shao Changfeng said.


    Gu Xiaoxi wrapped her head in a towel, came out of the washroom, grabbed Shao Changfeng¡¯s sleeve and dragged him into the washroom, ¡°Come and help me out!¡±


    Shao Changfeng, confused, stared at her, ¡°What happened?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi removed the towel...


    ¡°Pfft!¡± When Shao Changfeng saw her hair shoddily cut in all directions, even the usually composed man couldn¡¯t help but burst into laughter, nearly doubling over, ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re not just trying to amuse me?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi shoved the scissors into his hand, ¡°Hurry up, for the sake of our not-so-bad relationship, consider it a favor.¡±


    Shao Changfeng, holding the scissors and trying to suppress his chuckles, looked at Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s ruined hair and sighed, ¡°With your hair like this, you can only go for a buzz cut.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi, looking at her disheveled hair, clenched her teeth and closed her eyes, ¡°Buzz cut it is then, just hurry.¡±


    Anything¡¯s better than looking like a madwoman!


    Shao Changfeng sighed speechlessly and began working efficiently, he cut while saying, ¡°Someone came looking for you just now, fixing your hair will take at least half an hour.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡± asked Gu Xiaoxi in a deep voice.


    ¡°A very, very handsome man!¡± Shao Changfeng thought carefully; the man was dressed in plain clothes, all white, evidently very neat, tall and handsome with extraordinary manners.


    In his presence, he could feel an aura of superiority.


    Thinking it over, Shao Changfeng could only use these words to describe Quan Shaoqing.


    Gu Xiaoxi thought for a moment, probably Quan Shaoqing.


    Half an hour later, Gu Xiaoxi looked at the woman in the mirror and couldn¡¯t help but light up!


    That could no longer be described as a woman, but was vividly a handsome-looking young fellow.


    With a buzz cut, the clean forehead made the eyebrows look exceptionally thick, and the deep gaze carried a hint of arrogance.


    The well-defined brows and eyes, the fair skin, and the delicate features added an ethereal quality to her bearing.


    The more she looked, the more charming she became.


    This hairstyle even suited her better than her shoulder-length hair!


    Gu Xiaoxi proudly raised her neck, giving Shao Changfeng a thumbs-up, ¡°Buddy, you really have great skills.


    Thanks for today!¡±


    As Shao Changfeng stared at the reflection in the mirror, he was stunned for a while before recovering, ¡°No need to thank me.


    You better hurry!


    Maybe they can¡¯t wait anymore.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi patted the hair shavings off her camouflage uniform, saluted Shao Changfeng, and then ran out of the dormitory quickly.


    Song Jingyi and Li Chun admired Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s courage for having the platoon leader personally cut her hair.


    That was quite a privilege.


    The girls in the dormitory looked at Shao Changfeng and suddenly felt the platoon leader was so warm-hearted!


    They praised his kindness.


    In the reception room, Quan Shaoqing checked his watch for the tenth time.


    He had a very poor impression of Shao Changfeng.


    This soldier was incredibly slow!


    Summoning someone took half an hour, and this was the platoon leader of the strongest reconnaissance soldiers.


    With his temperament, he ought to demote him and have him start over!


    It happened at the moment he checked his watch for the eleventh time.


    The door of the reception room opened.


    A ¡°youth¡± with a jade-like complexion walked toward him with noble strides, hands in pockets.


    The short hair fully revealed that exquisitely beautiful face, bright eyes, white teeth, and a vivacious expression.


    A pair of dark eyes twinkled with untamed cold lights, making her aura especially complex: a bit haughty, a bit unruly, a bit detached, just like the White Plum on Snow Mountain, exuding pride amidst the snow, standing tall and elegant in the wind.


    Quan Shaoqing stared at her in disbelief, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi tilted her head up, threw a flirtatious glance, and smiled flirtatiously, ¡°Handsome, are you up for a date?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing was about to approach her when, upon hearing this, he stumbled, nearly falling over.


    He knew this person well; the nature is hard to change, the landscape is easy to change.


    She hadn¡¯t changed one bit!


    ¡°Come here!¡± Quan Shaoqing beckoned to her, and Gu Xiaoxi walked over.


    He placed his hand on her shoulder and then pushed her to sit down in front of a chair, ¡°Didn¡¯t you want crab?


    I brought it.


    And I also made you a lobster congee!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at the food box in front of her, which contained six crabs, and a thermal container, which should contain the congee Quan Shaoqing mentioned.


    Unfortunately, she had already eaten at noon.


    The cafeteria¡¯s food was quite good, and she had eaten her fill.


    Moreover, seeing the crabs made her think of Yi Chentian.


    Somehow, it just made her blood boil.


    For her, Gu Xiaoxi, to have a boyfriend for the first time, and for it not to last even a month, to have had just one meal with him, and even their total time spent together not to exceed two hours.


    She might well be the only one in the world to have experienced such a tragic love affair, unprecedented and unrepeatable.


    What made her even more furious was that she was the one who got dumped!


    Quan Shaoqing stood in front of Gu Xiaoxi, watching her furrow her brows, perplexed, he asked, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you wanted to eat?


    Why are you just looking at it?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi leaned back on the stool, crossed her legs, then rested her hand on the armrest, and looked at Quan Shaoqing with a wild posture and a sidelong glance.


    The man, dressed in a casual white outfit, didn¡¯t look like a high-ranking officer, with an air of valor between his brows, always exuding an imperceptible majesty.


    That complex aura was like a candle shining in the night, deeply attracting moths, unable to extricate themselves.


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes, raised her head to meet Quan Shaoqing¡¯s gaze, ¡°I just had lunch.


    It looks like I will have to save it for dinner.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing always felt there was a deep annoyance hidden in Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s eyes, one she concealed very well.


    His heart suddenly skipped a beat!


    Was she blaming him for threatening Yi Chentian?


    ¡°And you still had me bring it?


    Didn¡¯t you see the message I sent you?¡± He had clearly sent her a message, and Quan Shaoqing¡¯s face turned dark immediately.


    Was she deliberately picking a fight?


    Because he had interfered with her love life.


    Meanwhile, both of them hid a dark flame in their eyes.


    Gu Xiaoxi said nothing, simply holding a faint, ambiguous smile on her lips.


    Her dark eyes, however, were cold enough to make one shiver.


    ¡°This crab looks much worse than what he made!¡±

 Chapter 75 - 75 8

    ?75: Chapter 8 Next Time, I¡¯ll Get You Something Different 75: Chapter 8 Next Time, I¡¯ll Get You Something Different Thump!


    Quan Shaoqing clutched at his chest, nearly spitting out a mouthful of old blood.


    With a grim face, he stepped forward and glared at her, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, if you have the guts, say that again!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s face, which was black as coal, and his cold eyes seemed to be raging with a storm.


    She instinctively shrank her neck, feeling a bit scared!


    In fact, she seldom saw Quan Shaoqing lose his temper, but when he did, it was somewhat frightening.


    ¡°Next time, can we have four dishes and one soup, with a meat and vegetable mix?


    It looks a bit nicer too!¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s voice was like the buzz of a mosquito.


    She admitted defeat¡ªwho made him the boss of the Zheng Z department!


    Even if one didn¡¯t want to comply, they had no choice!


    Only then did Quan Shaoqing raise his eyebrows in satisfaction, ¡°I was indeed at fault regarding the last incident.


    But if it¡¯s true love, you can¡¯t back down just because of a few words I¡¯ve said.


    Gu Xiaoxi, I¡¯m doing this for your own good!¡±


    Damn!


    With that said, somehow Yi Chentian became the one in the wrong?


    Gu Xiaoxi rubbed the short hair on her head and stood up, her expression indifferent, ¡°Fine!


    I get it.


    You want to tell me that I have stumbled upon a mouse-hearted jerk.


    I¡¯ll take the crab with me and save it for the afternoon snack.


    Thank you for the visit.¡±


    Quan Shaoqing clearly felt that there was something sarcastic about her tone, although on the surface she seemed to be obeying him, it was likely she wasn¡¯t convinced in her heart.


    Seeing her pick up the lunch box and about to leave, Quan Shaoqing quickly grabbed Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s arm.


    Gu Xiaoxi stopped in her tracks, turned her head, and looked at the large palm holding her arm.


    His palm bore calluses, and the temperature of his palm was scorching, his long and shapely fingers were very strong, gripping her so firmly that she couldn¡¯t even move her feet.


    All of a sudden, Gu Xiaoxi remembered the first time she met Quan Shaoqing.


    He moved agilely, and despite being so seriously injured, he was able to defeat the bad guys.


    Gu Xiaoxi narrowed her eyes and suddenly flung the lunch box in her hand toward the table nearby, turned around, and with a fierce palm thrust, she attacked Quan Shaoqing.


    Quan Shaoqing reacted swiftly, raising his hand to block.


    Under Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s full-force attack, he did so with ease.


    In just ten minutes, they had exchanged more than a dozen techniques.


    At every turn, Gu Xiaoxi was restrained, feeling unconvinced in her heart.


    She used her inner strength in her palms, but unexpectedly, Quan Shaoqing caught her by the waist and quickly seized her wrist.


    His strength was astonishing; her casual grab left her feeling as if she was sinking into a quagmire, powerless.


    Quan Shaoqing held Gu Xiaoxi tightly in his embrace, looking at her cheeks flushed with anger, his voice tinged with helplessness, ¡°If you want to surpass me, then train properly!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s face darkened!


    Struggling fiercely, she tried to break free from Quan Shaoqing¡¯s grip, but she couldn¡¯t manage to.


    ¡°I will definitely surpass you!¡± Gu Xiaoxi declared with determination, her tone icy as if she were taking an oath.


    She suddenly used all her strength and broke free from Quan Shaoqing¡¯s hands, striking at him with her palm.


    Caught off guard, Quan Shaoqing felt the vigor in her palm wind, releasing her waist, and stumbled backwards to dodge her palm.


    Gu Xiaoxi, however, because of the sudden release of the hand around her waist, lost balance and fell towards the ground.


    She tried to tumble to prevent the fall, but her leg went numb and couldn¡¯t move at all.


    As she was about to hit the ground, she closed her eyes in despair.


    Quan Shaoqing was startled, and when Gu Xiaoxi was falling and only ten centimeters from the ground, he rapidly reached out and, fortunately, caught her in the nick of time.


    Only, he failed to watch his step and stepped on a glass bead, slipping, and fell backwards.


    Gu Xiaoxi, pulled by him, lunged in the opposite direction.


    The two of them tumbled into a heap.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s head hit the ground, and for a long while his mind was in a mush.


    Gu Xiaoxi lay on his chest, pressing against him, the two of them now in close proximity.


    Their lips touched, noses aligned, and their warm breath sprayed on each other¡¯s faces, both stunned.


    One second, two seconds, three seconds...


    Not until ten seconds later did Gu Xiaoxi suddenly snap out of it, her cheeks blushing red as she hurriedly climbed off Quan Shaoqing¡¯s chest.


    But in her haste, she fell a second time.


    Her forehead bumped against his chin, the pain almost brought tears to her eyes.


    Quan Shaoqing came back to his senses and immediately sat up from the ground.


    Seeing the hint of panic in her eyes, he helped her up and noticed her forehead was red.


    He gently rubbed it for her, ¡°Stop messing around, as you are now, if it comes to physical strength, you can¡¯t beat me.¡±


    ¡°Then you should have been a bit gentler!¡± Gu Xiaoxi lowered her head, and to disguise her suddenly racing heart, she clenched her fists and glared at Quan Shaoqing.


    As their gazes locked, Quan Shaoqing¡¯s eyes were still calm and cold, but she seemed somewhat unable to directly meet his eyes.


    His eyes were like whirlpools in the deep sea, just one look made one feel an irresistible urge to jump in.


    Gu Xiaoxi hastily slapped away his hand from her forehead, picked up the lunchbox from the table, and walked away.


    But as she was about to leave, Quan Shaoqing suddenly grabbed her by the shoulder from behind.


    Gu Xiaoxi stiffened all over, then Quan Shaoqing moved her body so that she was facing him, and said in a serious tone, ¡°Don¡¯t be mad at me anymore.


    If you think the crab wasn¡¯t good this time, I¡¯ll get you something different next time.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi gripped the lunch box tightly, her tone indifferent, ¡°Whatever!


    Next time you come, remember to bring me some chewing gum.


    And that 360 degree thing!¡±


    As soon as Gu Xiaoxi finished speaking, she turned and ran off with the lunch box, her heart pounding, fleeing in embarrassed shyness.


    Quan Shaoqing watched her retreating figure, pulling out a cigarette from his pocket and lighting it up, feeling an inexplicable sense of loss and joy in his heart.


    The loss was because that girl was still thinking about Yi Chentian.


    The joy was because every time he thought of that kiss from earlier, his lips would curl into a smile uncontrollably.


    Upon seeing Gu Xiaoxi leave, Lin Mi came in from outside.


    As soon as he entered, he saw Quan Shaoqing smiling brilliantly, which looked a bit lecherous.


    ¡°Superior officer!


    I just heard noises inside, you didn¡¯t get into a fight with Gu Xiaoxi, did you?¡±


    Quan Shaoqing glanced at him sideways, appearing to be in a good mood, ¡°Let¡¯s go!


    Time to head back.¡±


    Seeing that he didn¡¯t answer, Lin Mi scratched his head.


    Was he being too talkative again?


    ...


    Gu Xiaoxi ran all the way, her cheeks growing redder, suddenly recalling the embarrassing moment in the bathroom last time, coupled with that unexpected kiss just now, which made her feel like her face was running a fever of forty degrees.


    Because she was running too fast, she collided with someone, which calmed her down.


    ¡°Are you acting like a thief, with that guilty look on your face?¡± Shao Changfeng was planning to call her after not seeing Gu Xiaoxi for a long time, since the troops had already assembled and they were going to have a three-day beach training.


    So, he went to fetch her.


    From a distance, he saw her running with her head down, unresponsive to his calls.


    ¡°You¡¯re the one acting like a thief.


    Oh, did you want something from me?¡± Gu Xiaoxi asked.


    ¡°Quickly assemble and set out for the beach immediately.


    We will undertake three days of beach training,¡± Shao Changfeng ordered.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at the crab in her hands, knowing she certainly couldn¡¯t take it with her.


    Seeing that Shao Changfeng was empty-handed, she stuffed it into his hands, ¡°Take this with you.


    Share with the guys on the road!¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, regardless of whether Shao Changfeng was willing, she turned and ran towards the dormitory.


    Back at the dormitory, she found her belongings had already been packed by someone, and even her favorite box of chewing gum was included.


    Gu Xiaoxi, with her backpack on, ran toward the assembly point where everyone was already boarding the vehicles.


    Shao Changfeng looked at the lunch box in his hands, lifted the lid, and his eyes lit up.


    Such a big crab, and it smelled so good!


    ¡°This girl is really lucky.


    How come nobody sends me anything like this?¡±


    Shao Changfeng wondered if there was something wrong with his popularity.


    ...


    Gu Xiaoxi boarded the bus and sat next to Song Jingyi, with Zhang Jingyue and Na Feng behind them.


    ¡°Where did you go, Gu Xiaoxi?


    We waited for you for so long.


    We shouldn¡¯t be punished collectively because of you!¡± Na Feng spoke harshly, yelling at Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi sat in her seat and glanced at her, ¡°Someone was looking for me, got a problem with that?¡±


    ¡°How dare I have a problem!


    Tsk tsk!


    It¡¯s just that your hairstyle is really ugly,¡± Na Feng commented, and the boys sitting in the back started laughing uproariously.


    Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t get angry but instead laughed, stood up, and touched her short hair, casting a cool glance over everyone, ¡°You¡¯re just jealous because you¡¯re not as handsome as me!¡±


    Snort...


    After her remarks, a chorus of sounds like spitting blood came from behind; only then did Gu Xiaoxi sit down in her seat contentedly.


    Song Jingyi gave Gu Xiaoxi a thumbs-up, it was always her who could keep this whole bus in line, including a bunch of gossip-loving men.


    The bus was leaving the Fourth Company compound when it passed Quan Shaoqing and Lin Mi.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked up and saw Quan Shaoqing also looking up at her.


    When their eyes met, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s cheeks flushed, and she quickly turned her head away.


    Afterwards, feeling that her reaction was too obvious and embarrassed, she turned her head back and was about to wave at Quan Shaoqing when she saw Zhang Jingyue excitedly pressing against the glass window, waving at Quan Shaoqing.


    She decisively dropped her hand, which she had just raised, and pretended to know nothing, closing her eyes to feign sleep.


    When Quan Shaoqing saw her act like that, his face darkened in an instant.


    There were more than thirty people on the bus, and more than half of them recognized him.


    After all, he had shown his face at the new recruits¡¯ camp before.


    But only Gu Xiaoxi and Zhang Jingyue knew his true identity.

 Chapter 76 - 76 9 Theres Always Someone Better Theres Always a Higher Sky

    ?76: Chapter 9: There¡¯s Always Someone Better, There¡¯s Always a Higher Sky 76: Chapter 9: There¡¯s Always Someone Better, There¡¯s Always a Higher Sky The training by the sea was extremely brutal.


    They had morning runs on the beach at 5:30 am, did sit-ups at noon holding a 100-pound wet oak log in groups of five, practiced holding their breath in the water and swimming at night until the deep hours, not returning to the temporary dormitory until they were all completely exhausted.


    Gu Xiaoxi wiped the sweat off her forehead; her clothes had long been soaked through.


    This kind of training was grueling, but every time she thought about how she still couldn¡¯t beat Quan Shaoqing, she felt incredibly vexed.


    When everyone else had gone to rest, she wanted to train some more, but of course, this training was no longer those exercises but practicing her Martial Arts.


    Gu Xiaoxi had informed Ye Qiran in advance that she was going to go out for some extra training.


    She told her not to look for her, nor to worry.


    Gu Xiaoxi found a sacred spot.


    Behind the sandy beach where they trained, there was a dense forest, and within the forest a hundred-meter-high waterfall, with pleasant scenery below that was suitable for her to practice martial arts.


    This time, she first cultivated her Inner Strength for an hour, then stood up and began learning fist techniques.


    It was the ¡°Tyrant Fist¡± she had seen in the library back in the military.


    The technique demanded high velocity and strength.


    And in this aspect, she could completely meet the standards, so with some practice, she should be able to master it.


    As she practiced, three to four hours passed, and it was already 1 am.


    Song Jingyi saw that Gu Xiaoxi had not returned and was somewhat worried.


    But since Gu Xiaoxi had told them not to disturb her before she left, they held back their concern.


    Although the place was close to the seaside, the forest was very dangerous at night.


    She reported this to Ye Qiran, who then reported it to Shao Changfeng.


    As the highest commander there, Shao Changfeng had to be responsible for everyone¡¯s safety.


    But it wasn¡¯t good for them to go looking for her in the forest since Gu Xiaoxi hadn¡¯t come back.


    So, they simply sat outside the training ground and waited.


    He had just sat down when he saw a group of men approaching him.


    Shao Changfeng frowned; from afar, he could actually see Zhong Ming.


    He immediately stood up and ran forward, punching Zhong Ming in the chest, ¡°Hey!


    What are you doing here?¡±


    Zhong Ming had been talking with Yi Chentian when he was suddenly hit by the punch, and as soon as he looked up to see who it was, he found that it was Flame¡¯s comrade Shao Changfeng, and he couldn¡¯t help being surprised, ¡°You¡¯re here too!¡±


    ¡°I brought the recruits from our platoon here for training.


    I¡¯m curious, what brings you here?¡± Shao Changfeng looked behind them at a group of fully-equipped people who seemed to be armed with real guns.


    And coming here in the middle of the night...


    Zhong Ming glanced back at the men, then said to Yi Chentian, ¡°Boss, you guys go ahead and get on the boat!


    I¡¯ll talk to him for a minute!¡±


    ¡°Everyone, speed it up!¡± Yi Chentian¡¯s face was cold, and with his dark eyes looking at the men, he waved, ¡°Board the boat in three minutes!¡±


    Zhong Ming waited for everyone to leave before slapping Shao Changfeng on the shoulder, ¡°Got a mission!


    As for what it is, I won¡¯t tell you.


    When I return in triumph, let¡¯s have a good drink.¡±


    ¡°Alright!


    Then you¡¯d better go, I won¡¯t hold you up,¡± Shao Changfeng said, enviously.


    Being tasked with a mission was every soldier¡¯s dream.


    Even if the risks were great, they were willing to take them, to protect their country and shed their blood.


    Zhong Ming patted Shao Changfeng¡¯s chest, looking at his rank insignia, and chuckled, ¡°Not bad, Lieutenant!


    Keep it up!¡±


    Shao Changfeng watched as Zhong Ming and the other nine members boarded a military yacht and sighed, hoping they could emerge victorious in next year¡¯s Special Forces selection.


    That was the true vanguard of battle.


    On the fishing boat, Zhong Ming looked at Yi Chentian, ¡°Boss, I heard Gu Xiaoxi is in the Fourth Platoon.


    When we return in triumph, how about we have a barbecue on the beach?


    And maybe you can introduce us to the future sister-in-law.¡±


    Yi Chentian¡¯s face was stern, and he slapped him on the forehead, ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?


    What sister-in-law, don¡¯t talk nonsense.¡±


    ¡°Why can¡¯t we talk about it?


    Didn¡¯t you succeed in your pursuit last time?¡± Zhong Ming said with a grin.


    Suddenly, Yi Chentian stood up and ordered everyone, ¡°Check your equipment, make haste to the incident island!¡±


    The subordinates exchanged looks, all feeling puzzled, but it wasn¡¯t the time to ask questions.


    Facing a battlefield, they had to ensure they were in top condition.


    Although their mission was only to go out to sea and help the Special Forces clean up the battlefield.


    When Gu Xiaoxi returned, she saw Yi Chentian sitting on the stairs in front of the training ground, seemingly lost in thought.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you asleep yet?¡± Gu Xiaoxi wiped the sweat off her forehead as she walked up to Shao Changfeng.


    ¡°Weren¡¯t I waiting for you?


    It¡¯s so dangerous at night, and you, all alone, not returning till after midnight, if something had happened, I would be held accountable!¡± Shao Changfeng scrutinized Gu Xiaoxi and felt that this fellow was truly a fanatic; even the strongest male soldiers were half dead from training during the day.


    Yet, she went on to train for an additional three hours, still full of energy.


    ¡°I know my own limits.


    You¡¯re worrying needlessly!


    It¡¯s so late, I¡¯m going to sleep,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said.


    She had already eaten some crabs on the way back, and now she felt a bit hungry, but there was no time to look for food, the dawn was almost approaching.


    ¡°Wait a second!¡± Just as Gu Xiaoxi turned to leave, Shao Changfeng reached into his pocket and pulled out two eggs, thrusting them into Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s hands, ¡°Go to sleep!


    Next time you¡¯re training extra, take me with you.


    It would be good to have some company!¡±


    ¡°Why do you need to train extra when you¡¯re not a recruit?¡± Gu Xiaoxi asked, holding the eggs, surprised and at the same time grateful for his thoughtfulness.


    Such a platoon leader seemed really nice.


    Shao Changfeng smiled and said, ¡°There¡¯s always someone better out there.


    I¡¯m just a small platoon leader.


    In the Special Forces, someone like me can only just barely step through the threshold.¡±

 Chapter 77 - 77 10 Search and Rescue

    ?77: Chapter 10 Search and Rescue 77: Chapter 10 Search and Rescue Before dawn, when the sky was still dark.


    Loud whistles pierced the silence of the temporary training camp on the beach.


    Everyone was jolted awake from their sleep.


    Gu Xiaoxi, Song Jingyi, Qin Chu, and Li Chun all became alert, jumping out of bed, quickly getting dressed, shouldering their packs, and rushing toward the assembly point.


    In three minutes, everyone had assembled.


    Shao Changfeng spoke in a serious tone, ¡°Last night, a Level Seven typhoon struck unexpectedly.


    Around one o¡¯clock in the early morning, a rescue team that went out to sea encountered huge waves at around five-thirty on their way back.


    Now, ten team members are missing.


    The higher-ups have ordered that all soldiers training by the sea who are good swimmers must board the ship and go out to sea to search for our missing comrades.


    Now, those I call by name, follow me immediately.¡±


    Shao Changfeng called out ten names, including himself that made eleven in total.


    Among them, Gu Xiaoxi was the only female soldier, and, undoubtedly, her swimming ability was naturally the best.


    Under Shao Changfeng¡¯s orders, everyone quickly boarded the ship.


    The first search and rescue vessel set out to sea.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at the sea, now gradually calming, and found it hard to believe that at five in the morning, there had been such huge waves.


    They had slept so soundly that they hadn¡¯t even realized that a typhoon had occurred.


    ¡°Platoon leader, why was the typhoon so strange?


    We didn¡¯t feel anything at all,¡± a male soldier asked curiously.


    Shao Changfeng looked up, seeing that Gu Xiaoxi also had a questioning look on her face, and explained, ¡°The area where we camped was surrounded by dense forests in a very safe bay area.


    Unless it¡¯s a typhoon of Level Eight or more, the impact on that location is minimal.


    But at sea, it¡¯s different.


    They went out to sea yesterday, and the yacht encountered winds of at least Level Eight.¡± Normally, a typhoon¡¯s strength diminishes significantly by the time it makes landfall.


    It was normal for everyone to have slept soundly and heavily last night after the day¡¯s exhausting training without noticing the storm.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked out to sea, the blue waters sparkling as the sunrise peeked over the horizon, painting half the sky red.


    The seascape was beautiful, but no one was in the mood to appreciate it at this moment.


    The boat raced at full speed towards the initial point of the incident, and two hours later, they reached the site of the accident.


    After reporting to the superiors, Shao Changfeng launched speedboats from the ship.


    The rescuers formed groups of four and began searching, using the yacht as a center point to start from.


    Gu Xiaoxi, Shao Changfeng, and another person named Jiang Youhua, three in a boat, navigated the speedboat around in search.


    At the same time, helicopters sent by the higher-ups were also scouring the area.


    ¡°Can we really find them this way?¡± Gu Xiaoxi listened to the droning of the speedboat¡¯s engine as they sped along.


    They couldn¡¯t just keep searching aimlessly.


    ¡°It¡¯s the dumbest method, but it¡¯s also the best we¡¯ve got.


    There are already boats and planes searching around the major islands.


    We need to search the sea for any isolated comrades!¡± Shao Changfeng said coldly, driving the boat.


    ¡°The sea is so vast now, shouting won¡¯t get any response!


    If it really was a massive typhoon, their fate is unpredictable,¡± Jiang Youhua said with a grim expression.


    Gu Xiaoxi bit her lip and remained silent.


    It was certainly very dangerous.


    Shao Changfeng narrowed his eyes and said to Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Do you know who went out to sea last night?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi looked at Shao Changfeng, puzzled, ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Yi Chentian and Zhong Ming!¡± Shao Changfeng said.


    Actually, he had always been aware of the relationship between Gu Xiaoxi and Yi Chentian.


    Not just him, but some officials in the new recruit company knew as well.


    During the new recruit period, Yi Chentian often came to the base to stealthily watch Gu Xiaoxi train.


    It was just that no one had spoken of it openly.


    However, he didn¡¯t know that they had already broken up.


    Sitting in the speedboat, Gu Xiaoxi pursed her lips, at a loss for how to feel.


    Worry was certainly present, for she would be concerned for anyone encountering danger.


    But she couldn¡¯t deny that after hearing Shao Changfeng¡¯s words, her worry became even heavier.


    Even though they had merely brushed past each other, even if it was just a second of meeting, in her memory, it left a profound mark, not something she could easily forget.


    She hoped that they were all safe and sound.


    After a whole morning of searching to no avail, the speedboats had to return.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked up at the rising sun, still with no news of Zhong Ming and Yi Chentian.


    Could it be that they had truly met with an accident?


    Back on the yacht.


    Gu Xiaoxi took out her phone, searched for last night¡¯s typhoon direction, and related information.


    Then she said to Shao Changfeng, ¡°Let¡¯s continue searching south.


    Let¡¯s see if there¡¯s a coast on the south side.


    Zhong Ming used to be the captain of the special forces, his comprehensive military quality is very strong, how could he possibly have an accident just because of the typhoon?¡±


    Shao Changfeng reported Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s thoughts to his superiors, and they agreed to continue the search southward.


    At the same time, they also received intelligence from superiors that a capsized boat had been found two kilometers away from their current location.


    So far, ten comrades had gone missing, not a single one found.


    Shao Changfeng drove the yacht southward until three in the afternoon.


    They then saw an island with a small, pointed tip.


    It took them another hour of sailing before they were a little closer to the island.


    As they approached, they spotted someone on the beach who had also started a fire, with smoke visible.


    Gu Xiaoxi suddenly climbed to the highest point of the yacht, took out a telescope to look, and indeed saw six or seven people on the beach.


    ¡°Shao Changfeng, they are over there!


    Report to the superiors quickly!¡± Gu Xiaoxi exclaimed excitably.


    Previously, a helicopter had come by, but everyone was in the forest looking for food.


    The rising tide had washed away the SOS message they had written on the beach.


    By the time they ran out of the forest, the helicopter had already left, so they missed the first rescue.


    This time, they had lit a fire, hoping that rescue would come once again.


    To their surprise, it really did come.


    Shao Changfeng led ten people off the boat, with Gu Xiaoxi closely following.


    On the beach, both Zhong Ming and Yi Chentian had sustained serious injuries.


    Zhong Ming¡¯s leg had been injured by the capsized boat, and he was now unable to move.


    Yi Chentian, in trying to protect his comrades, was covered in wounds from being battered by the waves, and the wounds were now inflamed, his lips pale, running a persistent high fever.


    Despite receiving emergency treatment, it had no effect whatsoever.


    Upon seeing this, Shao Changfeng immediately carried the two of them onto the boat, which had a first aid kit for treating their injuries.


    On the deck, everyone surrounded the two seriously injured, bandaging and applying medication to them.


    Meanwhile, Gu Xiaoxi, holding disinfectant, bandaged those with minor injuries.


    Watching that only seven of them returned, Gu Xiaoxi pursed her lips, remaining silent.


    But the others had a grave expression as they said, ¡°When the boat capsized, the waves scattered us all.


    If Captain Yi hadn¡¯t protected me, I probably wouldn¡¯t have made it back either.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi patted his shoulder, ¡°It¡¯s good you¡¯re alive, don¡¯t think too much.


    The search and rescue team is still looking, so let¡¯s not be too sad.¡±


    Some words are destined to comfort others.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s rationality allowed her to see very clearly.


    The others surely didn¡¯t have enough physical strength and endurance to hold out until the end.


    She thought, on the path of being a soldier, physical fitness was an extremely important aspect.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi!¡± Suddenly, Shao Changfeng¡¯s voice came from not far away, ¡°Come over and help me hold someone steady!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi turned around and saw Shao Changfeng pointing at Yi Chentian, who seemed to have had his wounds bandaged, but his body was wrapped in bandages and his cheeks were flushed with a high fever.


    Gu Xiaoxi clenched her teeth, with so many people standing by, why did he have to ask her for help?

 Chapter 78 - 78 11 Unexpected Gains

    ?78: Chapter 11 Unexpected Gains 78: Chapter 11 Unexpected Gains Under the watchful eyes of everyone, Gu Xiaoxi put down the disinfectant in her hands.


    She walked over, squatted down, and gently supported Yi Chentian.


    The man was injured all over, and his high fever persisted.


    As Gu Xiaoxi looked up, she saw Zhong Ming staring at her, his expression full of inquiry.


    ¡°Why are you staring at me?¡± Gu Xiaoxi asked angrily.


    Zhong Ming hadn¡¯t forgotten his grudge with Gu Xiaoxi, but for the sake of Yi Chentian, he chose not to hold it against her.


    He leaned against the side of the cabin, with the injured leg already fixed in a splint.


    Although the pain was making him sweat profusely, he endured it with strength.


    ¡°Gu Xiaoxi!


    I¡¯m overlooking our issues for Boss Yi¡¯s sake.


    What about me giving you a stare?


    It won¡¯t make you lose any flesh!¡± Zhong Ming tilted his chin up, his arrogant demeanor looking utterly infuriating.


    Gu Xiaoxi laughed coldly, ready to respond.


    At that moment, Shao Changfeng had finished bandaging Yi Chentian¡¯s wounds when he said, ¡°Move back a little and let his head rest on your leg.


    He is so seriously injured, yet you don¡¯t seem to care at all.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi held her breath, wondering whether or not to tell everyone that she actually had no relationship with him whatsoever.


    However, because they were comrades in arms, even if there was no relationship, she was willing to lend her leg for him to rest on.


    Even for a stranger, she would have taken care.


    Gu Xiaoxi clenched her fist, moved back a bit, straightened her legs, leaned against the cabin, and then Shao Changfeng placed Yi Chentian¡¯s head on her legs.


    Gu Xiaoxi could feel the heat radiating from his feverish body.


    She quickly turned around and called out to a soldier not far away, ¡°Bring a wet towel over!¡±


    Soon after, Jiang Youhua ran over quickly and handed the towel to Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi wrung out the water and gently placed the towel on Yi Chentian¡¯s forehead.


    All she hoped for now was for time to pass quickly, so they could get him to the hospital sooner.


    The return trip would take four hours.


    During that period, Yi Chentian¡¯s dressing was changed a few times, and he took antipyretics, but instead of his fever subsiding, it grew even worse.


    At this point, everyone on the boat was extremely anxious.


    But the return trip was only halfway done.


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s legs felt numb as she looked at Yi Chentian¡¯s furrowed brows due to the high fever, and her heart was filled with turmoil.


    After a while, when no one was looking, she quietly held his hand, closed her eyes, and transferred her True Qi into his body, driving out the coldness and heat within him.


    After a full half-hour, Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s back was drenched, and large beads of sweat fell from her forehead.


    Seeing the flush fade from Yi Chentian¡¯s face, she finally withdrew her True Qi.


    But this action had nearly depleted all of her cultivation.


    Gu Xiaoxi collapsed against the cabin wall, leaning on the cool surface, and gasped for breath.


    When Yi Chentian woke up, he felt a small, cold hand in his palm.


    As his vision gradually cleared, he saw the face he had longed for day and night, and he couldn¡¯t help but think he was dreaming.


    Gu Xiaoxi, wearing a military cap, had fine sweat rolling down her fair skin from her forehead, her eyes closed, lashes curling up and thick, but even so, there was a deep weariness in her brow.


    At a glance, it made one¡¯s heart ache.


    Gu Xiaoxi rested for a while before slowly opening her eyes.


    When she looked down, her gaze met Yi Chentian¡¯s directly, only then realizing that her hand was still in his palm.


    Like lightning, Gu Xiaoxi withdrew her hand.


    She expressionlessly helped Yi Chentian sit up and called out to Shao Changfeng not far away, ¡°Squad leader, come and take a look.


    He¡¯s awake!¡±


    Shao Changfeng ran over quickly, touched Yi Chentian¡¯s forehead, and seeing that the fever had subsided, he was ecstatic, ¡°It seems the medication worked!


    That¡¯s great!


    Xiao Xi, go rest for a bit.


    You¡¯ve had a hard time taking care of him this whole way.


    Look how pale your face is!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi stood up, her legs so numb she could hardly walk.


    After standing for a while, she took large strides towards the deck.


    At that moment, the sun was setting, casting golden sunlight over the glittering sea.


    Gu Xiaoxi placed her hands on her hips and stood at the bow of the boat, taking a deep breath.


    At that moment, her feet still felt a bit floaty.


    It seemed she needed to practice Inner Strength more diligently.


    Using it just once had left her feeling faint.


    After Yi Chentian¡¯s fever broke, his lips began to pale.


    He leaned against the cabin and through the yacht¡¯s narrow door, watched the proud silhouette of Gu Xiaoxi, unsure of what to say.


    Had she been taking care of him all along?


    Did it mean she was also worried about him?


    His palm still retained the residual warmth of her touch.


    Even though it was faint, it was so precious that he didn¡¯t dare to touch that hand again.


    Even if he knew her feelings, he could not offer her any promises.


    He didn¡¯t even have the courage to speak to her again.


    Even if he is formidable, how can he compare to that man?


    Yi Chentian thought, ¡°Quan Shaoqing must know how to love her better than he does!¡±


    An hour and a half later, the boat reached the shore.


    By then, an ambulance was already waiting there.


    Gu Xiaoxi watched as everyone hastily loaded the injured onto the ambulance; she turned and walked towards the camp.


    Suddenly, Zhong Ming called out to her from behind, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi!


    Boss said, ¡®Thank you for taking care of me!''¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi paused, turned back to Zhong Ming, and lifted a slight smile, ¡°You¡¯re welcome, I would have done the same for any other comrade.¡±


    In her words, there was an inexplicable sense of estrangement.


    Zhong Ming and Shao Changfeng exchanged glances, clearly sensing the politeness between the two.


    Especially since Yi Chentian was injured.


    Gu Xiaoxi had been particularly calm the whole time, even in taking care of him, she seemed unfazed.


    In the ambulance, Zhong Ming relayed her exact words to Yi Chentian, who upon hearing, couldn¡¯t help but tighten his grip on the bedsheet, his heart twisting in agony.


    After sending everyone off, Shao Changfeng quickly caught up to Gu Xiaoxi and asked with puzzlement, ¡°Weren¡¯t you and Yi Chentian...¡±


    ¡°We broke up!


    Right on our second meeting!¡± Gu Xiaoxi spoke without any concealment, ¡°He initiated it.


    Don¡¯t bring him up in front of me again!


    I don¡¯t want to hear it.¡±


    With those words, she pocketed her hands, straightened her back, and strode towards the canteen.


    Shao Changfeng stood still, stunned, and after a long time, he strangely felt a sense of relief and found it amusing.


    There was no reason to start a relationship with the first meeting and end it on the second.


    Wasn¡¯t that equivalent to ending as soon as it began?


    Today, everyone had been busy all day, and the dozen or so people were all extremely tired.


    Shao Changfeng allowed everyone to rest after having dinner.


    And after dinner, Gu Xiaoxi returned to her dormitory.


    Song Jingyi and the others saw Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s weariness and were very curious.


    On the training field, no matter how tired she was, they had never seen any signs of fatigue on her face.


    Today, she looked as though she hadn¡¯t eaten for days, displaying a sickly air.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, you¡¯re not sick, are you!¡± Song Jingyi quickly asked with concern.


    ¡°No!


    Get me a large cup of warm water!¡± Gu Xiaoxi grabbed a towel, took some clothes, and entered the bathroom.


    Turning on the faucet, she soaked herself in warm water, instantly feeling much more comfortable.


    But she still felt very weak, as if the nutrients inside her body had been scooped out by someone.


    Without absorbing some back, she was unable to replenish that sense of emptiness.


    After bathing, Gu Xiaoxi found her dormitory empty.


    Obviously, the others had gone back to training in the evening.


    On the table was ginger tea prepared by Song Jingyi.


    Gu Xiaoxi approached, lifted the cup, and gazed at the steaming water in her hand.


    She thought that Song Jingyi was getting more and more attentive.


    After changing her clothes, Gu Xiaoxi felt refreshed and a bit more spirited.


    However, that sense of emptiness inside her persisted.


    It seemed that she couldn¡¯t rest, she had to go for extra training.


    Gu Xiaoxi, chewing gum, left a note on the table, then slipped out of the training field and once again to the open area below the waterfall.


    She looked at the clear stream water in front of her, sparkling with fragmented light in the night.


    She spat out the gum and then sat cross-legged on a large rock.


    With swift finger gestures, she closed her eyes and entered a state of serious cultivation.


    When she cultivated using her usual methods, she miraculously found that her True Qi circulated at three times its normal speed.


    The sea of qi was expanding continually, and it was more than twice its previous size.


    This meant she would have more space to cultivate higher and more profound Inner Strength, tripling her cultivation speed directly.


    Gu Xiaoxi suddenly realized, thrilled.


    Every depletion of Inner Strength meant a renewal of the sea of qi.


    Only by constantly using Inner Strength and harnessing True Qi could she accumulate more Inner Strength.


    In the evening, after only three hours of practice, Gu Xiaoxi had completely replenished the True Qi she had spent saving Yi Chentian.


    Instantly, she was revitalized.


    Her spirits soared!


    Gu Xiaoxi stood up from the large rock under the waterfall, stretched lazily, and her eyes shone like dazzling stars.


    She looked reborn, standing tall, with handsome features and agile movements, radiating an orchid-like aura.


    Could this be considered, an unexpected harvest?

 Chapter 79 - 79 12 Her Backing Is Somewhat Strong

    ?79: Chapter 12: Her Backing Is Somewhat Strong 79: Chapter 12: Her Backing Is Somewhat Strong You can go back and rest now.


    Gu Xiaoxi understood that Inner Strength could not be rushed.


    Just as before, it had to be accumulated slowly.


    Although she had only accumulated a little over the years, her foundation was stable, and even if she lost it, she could quickly regain it.


    Gu Xiaoxi, full of energy, headed toward the training camp.


    However, just as she arrived at the training ground, she saw Zhang Jingyue speaking with Shao Changfeng under the coconut trees by the seaside, her face filled with worry.


    Gu Xiaoxi did not intend to eavesdrop, but she suddenly found her ears had become especially sensitive.


    Standing quite far away, she could hear Zhang Jingyue¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Squad leader, can I take a day off?


    I really have an emergency.¡±


    Shao Changfeng¡¯s expression turned slightly cold, ¡°What matter?


    You have to tell me.


    If it¡¯s just something trivial, you can¡¯t leave the unit.¡±


    Zhang Jingyue¡¯s fingers were tightly intertwined, ¡°My superior officer is injured!


    I need to go see him.¡±


    ¡°Who did you say?¡±


    ¡°Quan Shaoqing, the highest commander of our Z unit.


    Squad leader, I¡¯m begging you.


    If you don¡¯t agree, I¡¯ll have to ask my grandfather to call you,¡± Zhang Jingyue suddenly spoke with a serious tone.


    With her words, the atmosphere turned briefly tense.


    Shao Changfeng narrowed his eyes, emitting a dangerous anger.


    He wouldn¡¯t be threatened by a superior.


    He had been about to approve Zhang Jingyue¡¯s leave, but after her threat, he hesitated.


    Shao Changfeng was deep in thought, as the name Quan Shaoqing seemed familiar, as if he had heard it mentioned by someone before.


    Now hearing it again, he couldn¡¯t immediately recall.


    ¡°Squad leader!


    I¡¯m really in a hurry,¡± Zhang Jingyue said.


    ...


    Gu Xiaoxi touched her short hair and looked down at her toes, silent for a moment, ¡°Quan Shaoqing is injured?


    Then why is he injured again?¡±


    Remembering their first meeting, when Quan Shaoqing was injured, her heart tightened involuntarily.


    Gu Xiaoxi took out her phone from her pocket and headed back into the woods.


    She dialed Quan Shaoqing¡¯s mobile phone several times but couldn¡¯t get through.


    It wasn¡¯t until the fifth time that the call was connected.


    However, it wasn¡¯t Quan Shaoqing who answered, but Lin Mi.


    ¡°Miss Gu?¡± Lin Mi¡¯s voice came from the other end.


    Gu Xiaoxi immediately asked anxiously, ¡°I heard he was injured.¡±


    ¡°Who told you?¡± Lin Mi asked seriously.


    ¡°I heard it from Zhang Jingyue!¡± Gu Xiaoxi didn¡¯t hide it.


    Lin Mi was silent for a moment, then spoke in a serious tone, ¡°This matter should not be exaggerated.


    The superior officer is indeed injured.


    But you can rest assured, he is fine.


    You focus on training well there.¡±


    ¡°Oh!


    Alright then!¡±


    Only after confirming did Gu Xiaoxi hang up the phone with peace of mind.


    However, it seemed that,


    Zhang Jingyue was quite concerned about Quan Shaoqing.


    She thought that Zhang Jingyue¡¯s family background was not bad.


    If she knew Quan Shaoqing, it was not impossible.


    Gu Xiaoxi put away her phone, ready to go back to sleep.


    As she passed the training field, she heard someone calling her.


    Turning around, she saw Shao Changfeng standing not far away, waving at her.


    She stopped and looked back, seeing Shao Changfeng running over from under the coconut tree, ¡°Did you call me for something?¡±


    ¡°You had a tiring day, and when you came back, you didn¡¯t look well.


    Why did you go for extra training?¡± Shao Changfeng¡¯s face was very serious, pointing at her, like interrogating a criminal.


    ¡°So, you were waiting for me under the coconut tree?¡± Gu Xiaoxi asked.


    Shao Changfeng squinted his eyes but did not deny it.


    The atmosphere suddenly became slightly warm.


    Gu Xiaoxi pressed her lips together and chuckled lightly, feeling a warmth in her heart.


    She didn¡¯t expect he would notice her.


    Even though it was a voice of reprimand, it was genuinely concerned.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine!


    I was just practicing my Techniques,¡± Gu Xiaoxi said with a radiant smile on her face.


    It was a smile from the heart, a bit naive and childish.


    For some reason, seeing her full of vigor,


    Shao Changfeng suddenly felt relieved.


    ¡°You¡¯re practicing techniques?


    What kind of techniques?¡± he caught the keyword in her statement and pressed on with questions.


    It was the 21st century ¡ª were there still any Cultivation Techniques?


    Gu Xiaoxi chuckled, surprised that he believed her.


    However, she wasn¡¯t ready to reveal her bottom line, so she replied cheerfully, ¡°The Sunflower Manual!¡±


    Shao Changfeng¡¯s face darkened, and he immediately realized he had been played.


    ¡°Enough!


    Go back and rest early.


    No more extra training.


    Your physical fitness is already top-notch.


    Hard steel is easy to break!


    You should understand that you have a long way to go in the future.


    If you ruin your body due to training, not only will you fail to become stronger, but you might also be forced to leave the army.


    Especially for a girl, the resistance is already weaker than that of men,¡± Shao Changfeng said earnestly.


    Gu Xiaoxi put her hands in her pockets, took out a box of chewing gum from inside, and tossed it to Shao Changfeng, giving him a bright smile, ¡°I know!


    I¡¯ll be careful.


    Thanks for the heads up.


    I¡¯m going to sleep.¡±


    With that, she turned and waved to him.


    Shao Changfeng watched Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s retreating figure, feeling her eyes were too bright, almost unbearably beautiful.


    The chewing gum in his hand still carried her faint warmth, and the box had her lingering scent, faint but pleasant.


    Shao Changfeng suddenly remembered the name Quan Shaoqing.


    He recalled the first time he met Gu Xiaoxi, she had asked, ¡°Did Quan Shaoqing send you?¡±


    Combining Zhang Jingyue¡¯s recent words, if Quan Shaoqing was the highest commander of the Z unit, then the person behind Gu Xiaoxi was their Z unit¡¯s highest authority.


    Shao Changfeng felt a cold sweat on his forehead.


    No wonder he could mobilize the Special Forces to chase after Gu Xiaoxi and directly order the disbandment of Flame!


    This guy¡¯s connections were not only strong but dauntingly so.


    If Quan Shaoqing was injured, and Gu Xiaoxi wasn¡¯t rushing to see him, why was Zhang Jingyue so anxious?


    Gu Xiaoxi originally planned to go back to the dormitory to sleep.


    Just as she was about to lie down, she heard the sound of a helicopter outside on the beach.


    At the same time, Lin Mi called her.


    Gu Xiaoxi quietly went to the bathroom to answer.


    Lin Mi¡¯s voice came through the phone, tense, ¡°Miss Gu, pack your things and come with me.


    I¡¯m about to land at your training camp.


    You have two minutes to come out.¡±

 Chapter 80 - 80 13

    ?80: Chapter 13 Agree to Take Care of Him 80: Chapter 13 Agree to Take Care of Him Lin Mi¡¯s voice came through the phone, tense.


    ¡°Miss Gu, gather your things and come with me.


    I¡¯m about to land at your training camp.


    You have two minutes to come out.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi immediately put down her phone, got dressed, and left the dormitory.


    Her movements woke Qin Chu.


    ¡°Xiao Xi, where are you going so late at night?¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi turned back and quickly gave an explanation, ¡°I have something important to attend to and need to leave; you guys continue to sleep.¡±


    With that, Gu Xiaoxi ran out.


    On the nearby beach, a helicopter was waiting with its cabin door open; Gu Xiaoxi grabbed the handrail and jumped on, seeing Lin Mi sitting in the seat with a stern expression.


    ¡°Close the door!


    Get ready for takeoff!¡± Lin Mi told Gu Xiaoxi.


    Gu Xiaoxi sat next to him, shut the aircraft¡¯s door, and asked, puzzled, ¡°Has something major happened?¡±


    By then, the aircraft had slowly lifted off.


    Lin Mi signaled her to be quiet and didn¡¯t say much.


    After about forty to fifty minutes, the helicopter landed at a beautiful mountain villa.


    In the darkness, a waterfall glistened and trees provided dense shade.


    Once the helicopter had stopped, Lin Mi was the first to get out and open the hatch, telling Gu Xiaoxi, ¡°Follow me!


    You¡¯ll know soon enough.¡±


    Outside the villa, a squad of soldiers stood guard, each carrying a weapon with a stern expression.


    Gu Xiaoxi followed Lin Mi into the villa.


    The spacious hall was brightly lit but empty.


    Gu Xiaoxi listened carefully for any noise around her and heard voices from a room on the second floor.


    ¡°The superior officer was gravely injured this time; it¡¯s uncertain if he can pull through.¡±


    ¡°He will!


    Mr.


    Yeh Bai is performing the surgery.


    He¡¯s the most skilled all-around doctor in our military district.¡±


    ¡°May the superior officer come out of this unscathed!¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s heart skipped a beat, and she looked at Lin Mi, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say his injuries weren¡¯t serious?¡±


    As they walked, Lin Mi pressed the elevator button and said, ¡°Because of this incident, we must keep it absolutely secret.


    We can¡¯t let the outside world know!¡±


    ¡°What exactly happened?¡± Gu Xiaoxi followed Lin Mi into the elevator.


    Lin Mi pressed the button for the fourth floor, closed the elevator doors, and said with a serious and angry gaze, ¡°A traitor infiltrated our Military Department.


    A time bomb was planted under the superior officer¡¯s car.


    Luckily, he was delayed a few minutes after a meeting ended, only heading downstairs then.


    Just as he approached the car, it exploded, and he was badly injured.


    If he had been in the car, it would have been unthinkable!¡±


    You could imagine how terrifying the scene must have been.


    Gu Xiaoxi felt her heart tighten; although Quan Shaoqing sometimes really loved to meddle.


    Yet, he was the only family she had left in this world.


    ¡°So, are his injuries severe?¡± Gu Xiaoxi clenched her fists, her heart feeling like it was being squeezed, her breath halted.


    She had heard it from others, but she still wanted to hear it from Lin Mi, since he was one of Quan Shaoqing¡¯s confidants.


    ¡°Severe!


    The surgery has been going on for eight hours.


    Doctor Yeh Bai is doing everything he can to save him.


    We originally didn¡¯t plan to call you, but during the surgery, he suddenly called out your name.


    I think he must have something to tell you.¡± As Lin Mi finished, the elevator reached the fourth floor.


    The elevator doors slowly opened.


    Gu Xiaoxi looked up and saw at the end of the corridor an enclosed room with a tightly shut door.


    A row of nurses stood outside.


    Gu Xiaoxi walked over, feeling somewhat numb all over, her mind gradually blanking out.


    ¡°Can I go in to see him?¡± she asked.


    ¡°Wait until the surgery is over!¡± Lin Mi pointed to a bench on the side.


    Gu Xiaoxi stared blankly at the operating room, sitting on the bench, quietly listening to the beeping of the machines inside, and the exchange of medical terminology between the doctors and the nurses.


    Time ticked by, second by second.


    It felt like a century had passed to Gu Xiaoxi before the operating room door finally opened.


    Gu Xiaoxi immediately stood up, and Yeh Bai was the first to come out.


    He removed his mask, approached Lin Mi, and reported, ¡°He¡¯s out of danger now.


    But watch for a fever tonight¡ªmake sure to use physical methods to cool him down.


    You can take him back to his room now.


    Be very careful moving him so as not to disturb the wound.¡±


    Yeh Bai walked briskly towards the washroom, and when he passed by Gu Xiaoxi, he suddenly stopped, his brows furrowing at the sight of her very short hair, clearly still unaccustomed to it, ¡°Gu Xiaoxi, what happened to your hair?¡±


    It was then that Gu Xiaoxi remembered that this person knew her from before.


    ¡°Cut it out!¡± With only two words in reply, she strode towards Quan Shaoqing¡¯s operating room.


    Gu Xiaoxi stood at the door of the operating room, gazing at the man lying on the hospital bed.


    Wrapped in bandages like a mummy, his whole body was tightly encased.


    At this moment, his eyes were tightly shut, his cool and unfeeling face slightly pale.


    Despite his severe injuries, his innate aura had not faded in the slightest.


    The doctors moved Quan Shaoqing to a movable hospital bed, then wheeled him into a bedroom on the third floor.


    Such villas have private medical rooms, so here, the highest level of confidentiality could be achieved.


    Apart from Yeh Bai and the attending nurse, no one else would know his condition.


    Yeh Bai and the nurse would stay here until his wounds were completely healed.


    After Quan Shaoqing was returned to his room and the nurse had administered an IV, she left.


    Now, only Lin Mi and Gu Xiaoxi were left in the sickroom.


    It was then that Quan Shaoqing slowly began to open his eyes.


    For a good while, he was still in a state of anesthesia, his eyes slightly vacant.


    Gu Xiaoxi immediately walked over happily and took Quan Shaoqing¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Zookeeper, you¡¯re awake!¡±


    Quan Shaoqing stared quietly at Gu Xiaoxi, his brows gradually knitting together, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Lin Mi immediately explained, ¡°I brought her here, so she could take care of you.¡±


    He swore that it was for Quan Shaoqing¡¯s own good, and he was sure Quan Shaoqing wouldn¡¯t blame him.


    Indeed, Quan Shaoqing didn¡¯t say much.


    He simply stated flatly, ¡°She knows nothing, and she¡¯s taking care of someone?¡±


    He moved his arm slightly, and a fiery pain instantly furrowed his brow, his hand¡¯s veins bulging as he endured the pain.


    Blood had seeped through the gauze over his wounds, but he didn¡¯t utter a sound.


    ¡°You despise me?


    Are you afraid I¡¯ll see how pathetic you look now?


    You do look awful right now.¡± Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s heart, which had been held in suspense, finally settled down.


    Her tone didn¡¯t spare his feelings at all.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s face darkened.


    This girl was here to mock him.


    Wasn¡¯t she supposed to be taking care of him?


    She wasn¡¯t tender-hearted at all.


    ¡°I¡¯m thirsty now, can you give me some water?¡± Quan Shaoqing¡¯s voice was hoarse, slightly weak.


    Gu Xiaoxi hurriedly turned to pour water.


    When she returned, Yeh Bai was at Quan Shaoqing¡¯s bedside, instructing, ¡°You can¡¯t get out of bed for three days.


    There must be someone to accompany and take care of you around the clock!¡±


    Lin Mi nodded, ¡°Thank you, Doctor Yeh Bai.


    We¡¯ll be troubling you during this time.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome.


    It¡¯s my duty.


    If there¡¯s any issue at night, call me at any time.


    I¡¯m staying in the next room,¡± Yeh Bai said with a polite smile.


    Seeing Gu Xiaoxi entering with the water cup, he gave her a warm smile and then left with large strides.


    Lin Mi glanced at Gu Xiaoxi, then said seriously, ¡°Because something happened in the Military Department, I have to step in to suppress this matter.


    Otherwise, it would cause panic in the entire military.


    I don¡¯t trust anyone else, so I¡¯m sorry to trouble you for a few days to take care of him here.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi walked up to Quan Shaoqing, and without looking back at Lin Mi, said, ¡°Then you better hurry.


    I¡¯ll take good care of him.¡±


    Hearing this, Lin Mi saluted Quan Shaoqing and then turned and left.


    Now, only Quan Shaoqing and Gu Xiaoxi were left in the ward.


    Under the warm yellow light, Gu Xiaoxi spoon-fed water to Quan Shaoqing, one mouthful at a time.


    Her actions were gentle and always careful.


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s gaze fell on Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s pure white profile, with her slightly pursed red lips, tempting like cherries.


    He couldn¡¯t help feeling warmth at the back of his throat and swallowed.


    Gu Xiaoxi was focused on feeding him water and didn¡¯t notice the fleeting tenderness in the man¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Why did spies infiltrate your troop?¡± Gu Xiaoxi brought the water to Quan Shaoqing¡¯s lips and then signaled for him to open his mouth.


    Her demeanor was like coaxing a child, making her look especially adorable.


    ¡°Since ancient times, spies have been everywhere.


    We can send undercover agents to pose as bad guys, and they can send their people to infiltrate our troops.


    There¡¯s nothing surprising about that,¡± Quan Shaoqing said indifferently.


    With that, he closed his eyes wearily.


    ¡°That will do.¡±


    Gu Xiaoxi put down the water cup, stood up, and leaned over Quan Shaoqing¡¯s bed.


    She suddenly lunged forward, startling Quan Shaoqing.


    Her youthful scent rushed over him, tightening his heart.


    He heard Gu Xiaoxi¡¯s voice close to his ear, ¡°In that case, I¡¯ll help you catch the culprit.


    In return, you grant me a second-class merit and a promotion.¡±


    Her hot breath on his face carried a distinct, enticing scent.


    Quan Shaoqing instinctively turned his head aside, but due to the pain all over his body, he couldn¡¯t move.


    ¡°Lin Mi is already on it.


    Your job is to take care of me.¡±


    ¡°You have so many people here.


    Nurses, subordinates aplenty¡ªcan¡¯t you find someone to look after you?


    Besides, taking care of you won¡¯t get me a promotion,¡± Gu Xiaoxi propped her chin on her hands, blinking at Quan Shaoqing with a puzzled look, noting his red ears.


    Then she reached out and touched his forehead.


    No fever!


    Why are his cheeks so red?


    Quan Shaoqing¡¯s lips trembled with indignation.


    This ungrateful little thing.


    After he had taken care of her for so long, and now she was bemoaning that she couldn¡¯t get promoted for taking care of him.


    ¡°Alright then!


    If you can find the spy without leaving here, I¡¯ll award you with a first-class merit and promote you to ace soldier,¡± Quan Shaoqing declared firmly, then shut his eyes, refusing to look at Gu Xiaoxi any longer.


    If he kept watching, he might just become obsessed.