The Fierce Farm Girl Has A Secret Space Chapter 2416: Liu Daniu (Part 4)

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Previously on The Fierce Farm Girl Has A Secret Space...
Gu Qingheng learned that the Cloud King of Daxuan, Qi Jingyun, is imprisoned by a group planning an uprising. He also discovered they consider themselves the 'rightful heirs' and use sound signals to control the herbalists overseeing the area. Gu Qingheng then created a diversion by causing a congregation member to be seemingly bitten by a poisonous snake, seizing the opportunity to approach Qi Jingyun.

The minor leader concluded his directives and then looked toward Gu Qingheng, saying, "Then you may proceed with delivering the meal."

Gu Qingheng offered a respectful bow before turning to make his way toward the cave situated midway up the mountain.

As he reached the cave's entrance, the sentries conducted a thorough check on both him and the food container. Only after confirming nothing was amiss were they permitted to unseal the heavy iron door of the stone cavern.

Gu Qingheng's gaze swept the interior of the stone cave. It wasn't particularly spacious, possessing only a single point of entry. Darkness prevailed within, with only feeble illumination filtering in from the entrance, yet it sufficed for observing the scene inside.

Despite Qi Jingyun's typically composed demeanor, his confinement had now stretched beyond a month. The cumulative effect of countless days without the simple comforts of bathing or shaving, coupled with interrupted meals and sleep, had left him visibly gaunt and disheveled.

Observing the bearded individual before him, Gu Qingheng mused that without his intimate knowledge of the Qi family, he might not have recognized this as the once-formidable Prince Yun.

Not even acknowledging the newcomer's presence, Qi Jingyun remained impassive as Gu Qingheng entered. The meager daily ration, intended solely to prevent his demise, was something he compelled himself to consume, refusing to accept such a pathetic end.

Gu Qingheng knelt and proceeded to open the food box. Within, he found a bowl of congee, a steamed bun, and a side of pickled vegetables, a sight that caused his brow to furrow.

With a distinct clinking sound, Qi Jingyun raised his shackled arm, seized the bun, and commenced eating.

Even in his dilapidated condition, his movements retained an unmistakable grace.

Gu Qingheng couldn't help but concede that the man possessed an innate nobility, embodying the inherent dignity and unyielding spirit of the Imperial Family, which commanded a degree of respect on that merit alone.

Once the recipient had finished his meal, Gu Qingheng crouched down to clear the dishes. In a swift, unhesitating motion, he reached out and clasped the other man's hand.

Qi Jingyun experienced a moment of profound surprise.

However, Gu Qingheng quickly stood, retrieved the food box, and prepared to depart upon detecting approaching footsteps. These sounded different from the cult members' tread; they likely belonged to a powerful figure.

Just as he neared the exit, the cave was plunged into shadow as an individual materialized at the entrance.

Qi Jingyun clenched his fist; a medicinal pill had just been surreptitiously passed to him. Initially hesitant, a glance at the eyes before him prompted acceptance, a silent acknowledgment that rescue was imminent.

While being aided by Gu Qingheng felt somewhat undignified, pride was a luxury he could not afford at present; succumbing to a pathetic existence was not an option. He couldn't resist a fleeting glance toward the retreating figure carrying the food box, a subtle smile gracing his lips. But upon noticing the imposing silhouette at the cave's mouth, his gaze quickly fell.

Gu Qingheng swiftly moved to the side of the entrance, adopting a posture of subservience with a slight bow.

Flame entered, his eyes briefly resting on Gu Qingheng before passing over him.

Moxie directed a sharp glare at Gu Qingheng, demanding, "Why aren't you hastening your exit?"

Gu Qingheng quickly bowed again, preparing to leave.

"Wait," Flame's voice suddenly commanded.

Gu Qingheng froze instantly in his tracks.

Even Qi Jingyun felt a prickle of apprehension.

Flame approached Gu Qingheng directly and inquired, "What is your name?"

"I am Liu Daniu..."

Unexpectedly, Flame launched an attack, his fist aimed directly at Gu Qingheng's chest.

Reacting instinctively, Gu Qingheng raised his arm to block, but his speed was insufficient. A heavy thud reverberated, sending him hurtling backward to slam against the stone wall before collapsing to the ground, a spurt of blood escaping his lips. His disguise fell away.