Longevity Martial Arts: Grinding Experience in the Chaotic World Chapter 1095 - 571: You Rotten Guy (Part 2)

After a short contemplation, Gu Sheng declared, "Come with me to buy clothes."

At those words, the group found it hard to accept what they heard.

"Brother Sheng, what did you just say? Buy clothes for you?"

"Yeah, Hong Mei’s still hurt, and instead of hunting down Real Ling Xiao, we’re off to shop for outfits?"

"Precisely, we’re getting clothes. Hong Mei’s garments are drenched in blood and unwearable now. First, we’ll get her new ones. Regarding Real Ling Xiao, I’ve already severed two of his fingers, so he’s likely escaped. Chasing him right now would be a waste of effort."

Grasping his intent, the others nodded vigorously and trailed after him.

Inside the apparel shop, Gu Sheng selected several items and then lifted a crimson garment, addressing the owner, "This ensemble seems a tad baggy; can you adjust it to fit snugly?"

"Certainly, sir. Kindly hold on for a bit."

As Gu Sheng took a seat nearby, Shi Lou and some companions traded glances, pulling silly expressions nonstop.

Following those looks, Er Gou approached.

"Brother Sheng, you even know Hong Mei’s clothing size? You two... you two..."

His words faltered slightly as he spoke, with a spark of gossip shining in his eyes.

Noticing his demeanor, Gu Sheng tapped his forehead gently.

"I tended to her injuries, giving me a rough sense of it. We’re merely friends at present, though that might change down the line. Does that answer your question?"

Hearing the straightforward reply straight from him, Er Gou’s gaze brightened.

"Brother Sheng, what’s with ’in the future, we won’t be’?"

"I’m fond of her, but I haven’t confessed yet—is that straightforward enough?"

On hearing this, Er Gou and Shi Lou bobbed their heads enthusiastically.

"Totally clear, totally clear, as plain as day."

Faced with their cheeky grins, Gu Sheng chuckled despite himself.

Once the clothes were acquired, the bunch headed back to the inn as a group.

Shi Lou looked around for a spell, yet Lan Yao remained absent.

"Lan Yao’s lagging behind us—maybe he’s dodging the evening feast?"

"Impossible, he’s a classic dandy who scoffs at Silver. Likely, he couldn’t locate the herbs and is still out there."

"Excellent; I’m eager for this night’s banquet."

Amid their lively talk, Gu Sheng carried the outfits into Hong Mei’s chamber.

"How are you feeling? Improved?"

"I’ve recovered ages ago. You mended me and infused plenty of spiritual energy too. Actually, my condition surpasses the norm now. Where’s the attire you purchased? Show me."

Gu Sheng fetched a stack of garments and placed them before her.

Confronted with the abundance of outfits, Hong Mei appeared somewhat stunned.

"You got so many?"

"As a young lady, it’s expected to own plenty. Unsure of your preferred style, I chose based on your typical look. Take a peek; do they suit you?"

Hong Mei extracted the dresses sequentially, nodding like a bird nibbling seeds.

"I adore them all; each one’s stunning."

"Put them on for a trial."

Hong Mei selected one and drew forth the scarlet dress.

"Gu Sheng, step outside."

"Ungrateful after all my efforts?"

Gu Sheng arched a brow while uttering this, drawing a laugh from Hong Mei.

"So, you’re comparing yourself to the donkey?"

Tickled by his remark, Gu Sheng joined in the laughter.

"Go on and try it; I’ll wait outside. Shout if you require assistance."

Gu Sheng exited but lingered by the entrance, refusing to stray far.

Observing his position, the rest chose to remain as well.

During their conversation, Hong Mei swung the door wide and emerged.

Clad in red, she appeared vibrant and full of vigor, leaving all onlookers momentarily stunned.

"Hong Mei, you seem untouched by any injury."

"True, you appear more robust than even I do."

"No joke, Brother Sheng chose an ensemble that fits you flawlessly, as if custom-made."

Amid the group’s comments, Hong Mei flushed and shot a look toward Gu Sheng.

"Gu Sheng, I truly appreciate the outfits you selected. Thank you."

"No need for such formality with me."

Right after Gu Sheng spoke, Bai Yu chimed in with mockery, "Precisely, Hong Mei, why stand on ceremony with Brother Sheng? We’re all like kin~"

He drew out "like kin" playfully, prompting the others to pile on.

Teased till her cheeks burned, Hong Mei shifted the subject: "Where’s Lan Yao? I haven’t spotted him."

"I dispatched him to procure Thousand-year-old Ginseng."

"Why seek Thousand-year-old Ginseng? I’m healed; it’s unnecessary."

"He’s off already, and upon his return, it’ll serve as his amends."

Gu Sheng uttered with a grin, leaving Hong Mei somewhat perplexed.

"Amends? What for?"

"For... his hasty remarks and bad timing."

Gu Sheng replied suggestively, and realization dawned on Hong Mei, her face crimson like ripe fruit.

"I’m weary; I’ll rest some more."

With that, Hong Mei dashed away in mortification.

Gazing at the shut door, Bai Yu sidled up, his eyes darting from Gu Sheng to the sealed barrier.

"Gu Sheng, did you send Lan Yao on that distant errand for the herbs because he interrupted your intentions?"

Gu Sheng cast him a look but offered no reply.

Of course, the group comprehended; silence equals affirmation!

It made sense why Gu Sheng banished Lan Yao so remotely! That explained everything! Lan Yao, you earned that! No injustice here!

As the others stifled their amusement, Gu Sheng coughed lightly.

"Lan Yao won’t be back soon, so everyone rest up; we’ll discuss once he arrives. In the meantime, prepare your belongings—we depart at dawn tomorrow."

After speaking, Gu Sheng departed ahead.

The crew retreated to their quarters, lingering until evening descended.

Shi Lou and company clutched their stomachs in hunger when Lan Yao rushed back in a panic.

"Gu Sheng, I’ve returned!"

Noting his anxious expression, Gu Sheng lifted an eyebrow.

"What’s wrong, failed to obtain the Thousand-year-old Ginseng?"

Upon Gu Sheng’s query, Lan Yao appeared ashamed.

"I’m truly apologetic; I searched diligently but came up empty on the Thousand-year-old Ginseng. Come morning, I’ll head back to the Elf Clan—my sibling surely possesses some!"

"Unnecessary, Hong Mei’s fully recovered, so no need to return. You troublesome fellow, come eat now; the group’s been famished waiting on you."

At Gu Sheng’s statement, Lan Yao grew baffled and consulted Bai Yu.

"What’s going on? Hong Mei’s alright?"

Bai Yu advanced and clapped his shoulder with implication.

"Lan Yao, watch yourself going forward and guard your words; avoid leaping to conclusions, lest Gu Sheng tasks you with Thousand-year-old Ginseng today and Ten-thousand-year-old Ginseng tomorrow."

Once Bai Yu concluded, Shi Lou and the rest burst into chuckles they couldn’t hold back.

Witnessing their mirth, Lan Yao’s bewilderment deepened.

"Bai Yu, what are you implying? I don’t get it, and why the giggles?"

"Stop inquiring, or Gu Sheng might dispatch you after Ten-thousand-year-old Ginseng this very night. Eat up fast; we’ve starved for you. We vowed no return till we’re intoxicated—seize the moment, quick."

Bai Yu denied him further queries and shoved him toward the stairs.

Lan Yao had intended to press Gu Sheng for details, but Shi Lou and the others, fearing another blunder, distracted him. With the drinks flowing, Lan Yao set aside his questions and dove into the revelry.

For once, the team unwound completely, savoring the boisterous gathering.

Nearing the witching hour, they finally dispersed to their rooms.

As dawn broke, Gu Sheng roused the others, and they resumed their travels.

Abandoning the settlement, they sped southward.

They pressed on with scant pauses all day, only easing at twilight when Gu Sheng glanced at Hong Mei.

"How’re you holding up? Weary?"

"Not in the least; I feel great. This short trek is trivial for me; I’m brimming with vitality—another full day would pose no issue."

Suddenly, Gu Sheng extended his hand and took her wrist, positioning his fingers on her pulse point.

Aware of his ongoing worry, Hong Mei composed herself silently, allowing the examination.

Moments later, Gu Sheng let go and eased up.

"We’ll advance a touch further and locate a suitable spot to camp."

"Sure."

Hong Mei responded gladly and bounded forward ahead of the pack.

Observing her silhouette, Gu Sheng smiled involuntarily.