Gu He Arrived, a Youth in Hiding

At the center of the desert, outside the Snake-People Holy City.

High in the sky beneath the blazing sun, two groups faced off, Dou Qi Wings spread behind their backs.

They were the Eight Chiefs of the Snake-People Tribe and four experts of Dou Wang rank or higher.

Below, the Snake-People royal guards and a squad of human Dou Ling likewise watched one another warily, looking ready to fight to the death at any moment!

A murderous tension hung over the scene; even the scorching air offered not a trace of warmth!

"Humans! You dare trespass on our sacred ground! Do you have a death wish?"

A furious roar, infused with vast Dou Qi, thundered across the surroundings, shaking the air into ripples!

A tall, powerfully built Snake-People man with a scar across the bridge of his nose glared at the group a short distance ahead. He wore heavy armor woven from special scales and held a sword in each hand.

"Hehe, Chief Mo Bass, we mean no offense to the Snake-People Tribe. I simply have a very important matter that requires an audience with your Queen. Could you announce our arrival?"

Among the group nearby, a handsome middle-aged man in fine robes patterned with drifting clouds stepped forward, smiling as he cupped his hands in greeting. His manner was exceedingly courteous.

At his words, Yue Mei, one of the eight chiefs opposite them, gave a cold laugh.

"Announce your arrival? Do you think you can see the Queen whenever you please? Unless you want to provoke a war between the Snake-People Tribe and the Jia Ma Empire, I suggest you go back where you came from!"

"Could you make an exception? I have come with sincerity. As long as Queen Medusa agrees to meet me, whether the matter succeeds