Chapter Nine: The Strategy of Rights and Interests

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Lu Qingyun sat leisurely upon a smooth, flat boulder, idly twirling in his hand the jade-like medicinal herb he had painstakingly obtained through great effort. This strange and rare elixir emitted a faint, ethereal glow—soft yet brilliant—reminiscent of stars twinkling in the deep night sky. Merely gazing upon it brought a refreshing clarity to the mind, as if it could cleanse the dust from one's soul.

He slowly surveyed the surroundings, noting that his companions were either sitting casually or lying lazily, all seizing every moment to recover their strength. Contentment adorned their faces—a rare tranquility and solace following the grueling battle they had endured. Each smile seemed to perfectly encapsulate the fierce struggle just past.

Han Man strode over with purposeful steps, his gait slightly hurried. Curiously, he asked, “Brother Lu, what do you plan to do with that jade herb?” His eyes fixed intently on the mysterious glowing herb in Lu Qingyun’s hand, reflecting both anticipation and a trace of doubt, as if trying to peer into Lu’s thoughts through the mystical radiance.

Lu Qingyun smiled gently, a warmth like spring sunshine suffusing his expression. Rising with careful yet resolute movements, as if handling a priceless treasure, he delicately divided the jade herb into several portions and passed them one by one to Han Man and the others.

Shaking his head, Lu declared with steadfast resolve, “Though this jade herb is precious, it is the fruit of our collective effort. I already have sufficient resources for my cultivation; these are for everyone, a token of my gratitude.” His voice, soft yet commanding, struck the hearts of all present like a hammer.

A wave of warmth surged through the group. They knew well that Lu Qingyun could have kept this rare treasure to himself, using it to advance his own power. Yet he chose to share it generously—this selflessness deepened their admiration for him.

Jing Yun accepted the herb, a flicker of gratitude shimmering in her beautiful eyes. Tears glistened as she softly said, “Brother Lu, you truly are a noble soul!” Her voice was clear and melodious, like a nightingale’s song.

“Yes, following Brother Lu, we are truly fortunate,” others chimed in, genuine smiles brightening their faces—smiles imbued with hope for the future and unwavering trust in Lu Qingyun.

Looking upon their joyful faces, Lu felt a warmth within. He understood that in this perilous and uncertain world, they were each other’s strongest support.

“All right, everyone, rest has been enough. It’s time to move forward,” Lu said, standing with determined eyes fixed toward the depths of Windcloud Gorge. His gaze burned with the desire to explore the unknown and pursue formidable power.

But as his words fell, dissent arose.

A burly man named Zhao Tiezhu scratched his head, concern etching his features. “Brother Lu, I think we should linger longer at the outskirts. The depths of Windcloud Gorge are fraught with danger, and our strength may not yet be sufficient.” Hesitation and fear laced his tone.

Others nodded in agreement, their eyes reflecting awe of the unknown threats and a lack of confidence in their own abilities.

Lu Qingyun frowned slightly, deep thought flickering in his profound eyes. He acknowledged their worries were not unfounded; indeed, the gorge’s heart concealed countless unknown dangers and formidable foes. Yet he also knew that only by pushing deeper could they gain precious cultivation resources and rare opportunities, enabling them to grow stronger swiftly in this ruthless world.

“Rest assured, I am confident I can lead everyone safely ahead,” he said firmly, his eyes sparkling with confidence—a beacon in the darkness, offering hope and courage to all.

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“But Brother Lu, though your martial soul is powerful, it cannot be wielded recklessly,” Jing Yun said with concern, her brows knitting slightly, gaze full of care. “If danger arises, we…”

Lu Qingyun smiled softly, cutting her off with a reassuring tone. “I understand your worries, but I have my methods. We need not rush; we can prepare first, then proceed gradually.”

At his words, the group’s anxiety began to dissipate like morning mist. Their eyes revealed absolute trust in Lu Qingyun, well aware that his wisdom and abilities were extraordinary.

Through the long river of history, Lu Qingyun shone like a brilliant star—whenever darkness fell, his remarkable intellect and iron will led the group through hardship and peril to safety.

Such trust had become like an ancient vow, etched deeply into each follower’s soul.

Thus, when facing unknown adventures, they followed Lu Qingyun’s lead without hesitation, confident that under his guidance, they would conquer all challenges and usher in the dawn of victory.

“Then we’ll follow Brother Lu’s plan—prepare first, then delve deeper,” said Wang Pangzi, patting his chest with spirited confidence. His round face radiated determination, as if ready to face any adversity.

“Yes! With Brother Lu, we will surely break through Windcloud Gorge!” others rallied, their voices rising like a stirring battle hymn across the open land—filled with resolve and strength.

Lu Qingyun nodded, moved and burdened by responsibility. He knew the weight of their trust and his mission to lead them to triumph; he must never disappoint their hopes.

Under the night sky, Windcloud Gorge lay silent and mysterious. A bright moon hung high, casting a cold light that illuminated this land of unknowns. Around the campfire, their faces flickered in the flames’ dance, shadows weaving between light and dark.

They fervently discussed plans ahead. Lu Qingyun crossed his arms, attentively listening to every opinion. He nodded in approval at moments, affirming their wisdom; at others, he furrowed his brow, pondering the feasibility of their strategies.

Under his leadership, the team ventured cautiously around the gorge’s fringes, bravely battling fierce beasts without retreat. Each charge brimmed with courage.

They skillfully gathered rare spiritual herbs, each discovery sparking delight. Everyone poured their heart and soul into these endeavors, displaying tenacity and fearless spirit.

Time passed swiftly; after seven days, their strength had notably increased. Their eyes gleamed with the resolve forged through trials; their movements became swift and agile like nimble leopards. A confident, powerful aura surrounded them, as if ready to face greater challenges.

Yet, as time wore on, the outer trials no longer thrilled them. Jing Yun’s lively eyes sparkled with curiosity about the unknown; she eagerly said, “Brother Lu, we’ve been here a week. Shouldn’t we venture deeper now?” Her voice was clear and urgent, filled with longing for new challenges.

Lu Qingyun nodded, his gaze thoughtful.

He slowly spoke, “What does everyone think? I feel we’re prepared enough now to try going further inside.” His tone was steady and strong, bringing an inexplicable reassurance.

Discussion ensued; faces showed both anticipation and a hint of worry. Yet in the end, all agreed to Lu Qingyun’s proposal.

During this time together, their faith in his leadership had deepened, especially among the women, whose admiration grew day by day.

With the decision made, they packed their gear and prepared to advance deeper into Windcloud Gorge. Each heart brimmed with expectation and tension, fully aware the path ahead was fraught with uncertainties and dangers, yet resolute in taking this brave step.

Shortly after entering the new area, Lu Qingyun’s brow suddenly furrowed. His eyes sharpened, alert to a looming threat.

“Be cautious, there are signs of others here,” Lu warned softly, his voice grave. He spotted trampled grass and broken branches—clear traces of recent passage.

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In a place like Windcloud Gorge, encountering others often meant lurking peril. Humans were far less predictable than beasts; their motives and minds were complex and dangerous.

“Let’s avoid this spot and take a detour,” Wang Pangzi suggested, his usually jovial face unusually serious. His eyes shone with vigilance and unease.

The group nodded in agreement, preparing to leave, when rustling footsteps echoed all around. The sound grew nearer, as if countless ghosts approached.

Suddenly, a band of men surged from the dense woods, encircling them. Their faces bore fierce grins, eyes gleaming with greed and cruelty.

“Stop! Hand over everything you have!” a rough voice thundered, commanding and menacing, resonating like thunder in their ears.

Lu Qingyun and his companions halted, surrounded by about twenty armed men wielding swords, broadswords, clubs, and more. Their attire varied but was uniformly ragged and filthy.

“Who are you, and why do you block our path?” Lu Qingyun asked calmly, scanning the crowd for a weakness. His tone was unyielding, imbued with an authority that brooked no challenge.

“Enough talk! We are the masters of Windcloud Gorge. You intruders must pay a toll!” the leader bellowed, his voice booming like a mountain echo.

He was a towering, muscular giant, his sinewy frame as solid as iron. A long scar ran diagonally from his eye to his chin, making his broad face all the more menacing in the sunlight.

“Masters?” Lu Qingyun sneered inwardly. Such a ragtag bunch hardly deserved the title. Their strength was unimpressive. But facing their numerical advantage, it was unwise to provoke them now.

“What if we refuse?” Lu asked, his voice still serene, unaffected by the threat.

Yet in his eyes flashed a subtle chill—the awakening of his warrior spirit. His hands clenched into fists, knuckles pale with tension, ready for the coming battle.

“Hmph, refuse? Then don’t blame us for being ruthless!” the giant sneered coldly, signaling his men to prepare. His gaze burned with murderous intent, as if already viewing Lu’s group as helpless prey.

“Brother Lu, what shall we do?” Jing Yun’s voice trembled slightly as she edged closer, hand slipping toward her sword at her waist, ready to fight. Though tense and fearful, her steady gaze showed she would stand unwaveringly by Lu Qingyun.

Lu Qingyun smiled reassuringly, his voice soothing as he said, “Don’t worry. Watch me.” Stepping forward without fear, he faced the encircling crowd and declared loudly, “Friends, we mean no harm; we are merely passing through. If you need resources, we can trade—there is no need for violence.” His resonant words echoed through the silent forest, carrying an irresistible force.

“Trade? Ha! What right have you to trade with us?” the giant laughed brazenly, as if hearing the world’s greatest joke. His mocking eyes conveyed utter disdain, dismissing Lu’s offer as naive folly.

Unmoved, Lu Qingyun continued, “I know survival in Windcloud Gorge is harsh. We’re willing to exchange the spiritual herbs and beast materials we’ve gathered for safe passage. These treasures will be valuable to you.”

His words stirred hesitation among the attackers; the fierce glare in their eyes softened slightly, revealing their genuine interest in the herbs and materials.

At that moment, a minion whispered urgently into the leader’s ear, “Boss, we…”