The four of them set off on the path of climbing once again. As they ventured deeper into the forest, the surrounding trees grew increasingly lush.
Sunlight filtered through the gaps between the leaves, casting dappled patterns of light and shadow, adding a touch of mystery and dreaminess to this mountainside forest.
A gentle breeze brushed by, bringing a slight chill, making everyone feel refreshed and at ease.
Occasionally, the distant cries of birds and beasts could be heard, injecting a bit of vitality into this tranquil forest, also enhancing everyone’s appreciation of the beauty of nature.
Originally a bit tired, the group found a peculiar comfort in this pure natural atmosphere, often pausing to admire the changing scenery around them.
On the winding and rugged mountain path, the group climbed arduously for nearly two hours.
Midway through, Johnson was truly exhausted and had to stop for another rest.
Each ti he rested, watching the unperturbed Li Jing, who seed unaffected, his inner sense of shock deepened.
The stamina and strength Li Jing demonstrated far exceeded his expectations.
Li Jing completely shattered his previous stereotypes about the physical abilities of people from Hua Country, prompting him to express heartfelt admiration:
"I really didn’t expect the physical fitness of people from Hua Country to be this good!"
Maria, standing nearby, could only nod in agreent, generously praising Li Jing.
Li Jing rely smiled, without offering much explanation.
When Li Jing and Johnson moved to the front of the group, Maria wore a mysterious smile, sidled up to Sophie, and whispered sothing.
Sophie’s face instantly turned bright red, and she frantically shook her head and waved her hands, appearing shy and embarrassed.
But Maria only laughed more joyfully, a clear and delightful laugh, as if sharing sothing exceedingly private and amusing.
Hearing the laughter, Li Jing glanced back and, when he reached Sophie, asked curiously, "What were you two talking about?"
However, Sophie just blushed, biting her lip, refusing to say anything.
In the end, Li Jing chose not to press the matter further.
Two hours passed quickly, and they finally reached one of Johnson’s planned destinations.
This was called one of the destinations because Johnson had planned for two stopovers on this trip: one halfway up the mountain, the other at the summit.
After nearly two hours of difficult climbing, the four of them finally reached the halfway point.
At this point, there was still so ti before sunset, but Johnson was clearly exhausted, his steps unsteady.
This was why he had set a destination halfway up the mountain - to ensure they had a place to rest if they beca too tired.
While one could see the sunset from here, it was ultimately lacking in comparison to the view from the summit.
Breathing heavily and drenched in sweat, Johnson looked back at Li Jing, who still seed full of energy, secretly amazed, then remarked:
"Li Jing, if you still have the energy, don’t mind us. You and Sophie should climb to the summit, the view there will be even more beautiful."
Hearing Johnson’s suggestion, Li Jing pondered, thinking it would indeed be a sha not to reach the summit, especially since he still had plenty of energy.
So, after helping Johnson set up the tent and tidy the campsite, he waved goodbye to them and continued heading toward the summit with Sophie.
Along the way, observing Li Jing’s energetic deanor, Sophie’s curiosity grew stronger and she couldn’t help but ask:
"How did you train to be like this? Your energy is remarkable. I’ve never seen anyone as vigorous as you. Did you train in martial arts since childhood?"
Li Jing chuckled, responding vaguely without giving a direct answer.
His gaze inadvertently fell upon Sophie’s long, beautiful legs, and he said:
"After climbing for so long, you should be tired too, right? Even though you didn’t carry anything, we’ve been climbing for quite a while. If you feel tired, let know and we can take a break."
In fact, Li Jing was quite surprised Sophie had managed to persist this far.
Even soone like Maria, who was used to outdoor activities and traveling, was exhausted, yet Sophie silently followed along without ever uttering a word of complaint.
Though she wasn’t carrying a load, even the act of climbing wasn’t easy; not just any woman, and perhaps not even many n, could accomplish this.
Hearing what Li Jing said, Sophie resolutely shook her head, replying, "It’s fine, you’re not tired even after carrying so much. How could I slow you down without carrying anything? Don’t worry about . Let’s go."
Seeing her earnest deanor, Li Jing no longer pressed the issue and continued advancing toward the summit.
The closer they got to the peak, the steeper the mountain beca.
Perhaps because most people deed reaching the halfway point sufficient, fewer chose to climb to the summit. The path grew increasingly difficult, with no signs of prior travelers, leaving Li Jing to clear the way.
Sophie’s delicate skin was grazed by the brambles, leaving small cuts on her arms.
Only when Li Jing occasionally glanced back did he notice the nurous little scratches on her arms, and yet she hadn’t uttered a single complaint.
Seeing this, Li Jing frowned slightly and suggested, "Maybe we should stop; the road ahead is getting harder."
But Sophie shook her head in refusal, "No, it’s okay. Don’t mind , trust , I can keep up."
Seeing her stubbornness, Li Jing said no more, continuing to blaze a trail for them to the summit.
After another hour of grueling climbing, the mountain path beca increasingly rugged and difficult, filled with jagged rocks and interlaced roots, requiring extre caution with every step.
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