pdf-ebookys Page 299
Page 299
Meanwhile, in a small tavern at the village entrance, several travelers were sitting around a fireplace, discussing something animatedly.
"Have you heard? Zhao De and his men have obtained the Sword of Light, and even the elves have become their allies!" A burly man with a full beard raised his wine glass and shouted excitedly.
"I can't believe it. I've seen that forest with my own eyes. What's inside is terrifying enough, let alone finding any sacred artifacts." The thin man sitting to the side shook his head, looking skeptical.
Chapter 688 Power is always accompanied by desire
Chapter 688 Power is always accompanied by desire
“But that’s the truth, isn’t it?” the tavern owner interjected as she wiped the glasses. “I have a relative among those villagers, and he described it so vividly, as if he had witnessed the heroes’ return firsthand.”
The lively discussion continued until a traveler in a tattered cloak pushed open the door, interrupting the bustling scene. He looked around, finally fixing his gaze on the direction Zhao De and the others had left in, a meaningful smile playing on his lips.
“A sacred relic… It seems the game has only just begun.” His voice was deep, causing those around him to fall silent involuntarily.
"Do you know anything, friend?" the bearded man asked curiously.
The traveler didn't answer directly, but slowly said, "In this world, power is always accompanied by desire. Zhao De and his group want to save the world, but what is the shadowy figure after? Perhaps it's more complex than we imagine..."
These words cast a heavy shadow over the atmosphere in the tavern. Everyone fell into deep thought, seemingly beginning to realize the numerous dangers lurking beneath this adventure.
The next morning, Zhao De and his group were ready to set off at the foot of the mountain, prepared to meet a new challenge. Lei Hu was eager to try, rubbing his hands together; Li Qing meticulously checked the equipment, not overlooking any potential problems; Zhou Wen closed his eyes to rest, silently accumulating magical power; while the elven allies surrounded them, exchanging whispers and exchanging pleasantries, appearing exceptionally united.
Just then, Zhao De turned to look at the mountains behind him, with a gaze that transcended reality, as if he had glimpsed a fragment of the future.
"At the summit of the mountains, unknown challenges lie ahead, along with the conspiracy of that shadowy figure... We must be cautious with every step we take, but we must not lose our courage to move forward." Zhao De's firm voice resonated in the hearts of every team member.
"Then let's set off!" Lei Hu took the lead and the others followed closely behind, heading towards the unknown mountain peak.
Along the mountain path, the herb gatherers or traveling sorcerers they occasionally encountered all had different expressions when they saw Zhao De and his group. Some were surprised by their extraordinary aura, while others silently prayed for these brave warriors.
"Look, it's Zhao De! Where are they going?" An old herb gatherer muttered to himself, pointing to the figures that were gradually getting smaller in the distance.
"I heard they're looking for some kind of sacred artifact to fight that great demon," the young man next to him chimed in, his eyes filled with admiration. "I really hope I can join them and do something truly epic!"
On the other side of the mountain, the shadowy messenger listened to everything, a chilling smile playing on his lips: "Zhao De, I admire your courage. However, the real game has only just begun..."
As the sun sets, the figures of Zhao De and his group gradually blend into the sky above the mountains. Their journey is full of unknowns and challenges, all of which will be woven into an epic tale that will be sung for thousands of years.
"No matter what lies ahead, we will always walk together." Zhao De's voice echoed in the mountain wind, a promise to his companions and a declaration of the challenges to come.
"Well then, we've arrived at the summit of the mountains," Lei Hu replied with a smile. Each member of the team continued their journey with firm steps, leaving behind a sea of awe and anticipation.
As night fell, a thin mist hung over the mountains and forests, adding a touch of mystery and unease to their adventure. Zhao De and his group chose a relatively open valley to set up camp, the campfire roaring and illuminating their resolute faces.
Chapter 689 Mountain bandits spotted nearby
Chapter 689 Mountain bandits spotted nearby
"What do you think that shadowy figure wants?" Li Qing stared at the leaping flames and asked the question that had been on his mind for a long time.
"No matter what it's plotting, if it's harmful to this world, we can't let it succeed." Zhou Wen's tone was calm, but his eyes gleamed with unwavering determination.
Lei Hu dusted off his hands and laughed heartily: "Why think so much? As long as we're prepared, we can defeat whatever enemy we encounter!"
The elves sat around, whispering in their melodious language, their occasional glances at Zhao De and the others filled with admiration and trust.
Just then, a slight noise caught everyone's attention. A ragged child, about ten years old, cautiously peeked out from the bushes, looking at the group that had suddenly appeared in his world with curiosity and wariness.
Zhao Dewen waved gently, and the child hesitated for a moment, but was eventually drawn by the warm smile and slowly walked closer to the campfire.
"What's your name? What are you doing here?" Li Qing asked softly, afraid of startling the child.
"My name is Amin. My home is in that village over there, but it was burned down by bandits. I was the only one who escaped." The child's voice trembled, and a trace of fear and helplessness flashed in his eyes.
Upon hearing this, a flash of anger crossed Zhao De's eyes: "Bandits? Are there bandits around here?"
Amin nodded and pointed north: "They are hiding in the dark forest, and many people are too afraid to approach them."
Upon hearing this, Lei Hu stood up, his muscles bulging and his fists clenched: "Bandits, huh, we'll go and meet them tomorrow!"
Zhou Wen pressed down on Lei Hu's shoulder and reminded him, "Don't be reckless. Find out the situation first to avoid falling into a trap."
Li Qing took some food out of the package and handed it to Amin: "Eat your fill first, then we'll think of something."
Amin accepted the food, nodded gratefully, and began to devour it. The elves around him also offered fruit to share, and the atmosphere around the campfire instantly became warm and cozy.
"Big brother, are you really going to defeat the great demon?" Amin asked with longing in his eyes after he had finished eating.
Zhao De smiled and patted his head: "That's right, we will do our best to protect everyone."
"I also want to become as strong as my older brother so I can protect my family and friends." Amin's eyes were firm, revealing an indescribable stubbornness despite his young age.
"As long as you are brave and persevere, one day you will become the person you want to be." Zhao De's encouraging words were like a warm current, warming the hearts of everyone present.
As night deepened, the conversations faded, and everyone drifted off to sleep. Only Zhao De remained seated, gazing at the burning campfire, lost in thought. He knew all too well that the challenges on this path went far beyond the bandits before him; the true threat lay in the shadows lurking in the darkness.
"No matter how difficult the road ahead may be, I will never back down," Zhao De whispered, as if making a vow to himself or a wish to the stars.
Not far away, a nocturnal owl swooped down from the treetops, emitting a long, drawn-out call, as if in response to his vow. Meanwhile, deep within the forest, a pair of cold, unseen eyes were plotting their next move.
"Zhao De, our game is going to be very interesting..." the shadowy messenger whispered, then disappeared into the night, leaving only an unsettling chuckle echoing in the silent valley.
Chapter 690 The Dark Forest
Chapter 690 The Dark Forest
The following morning, as the first rays of sunlight pierced through the mist and illuminated the camp, Zhao De and his group were already fully prepared to venture into the dark forest to face the challenges ahead. Amin stood by, his eyes filled with reluctance and admiration, watching them depart.
"Goodbye, big brothers, I hope you succeed." Amin waved his little hand, a seed called "courage" planted in his heart.
Zhao De turned around and smiled, "Take care of yourself, Amin. We'll meet again someday."
And so, Zhao De and his companions, carrying a new mission and renewed determination, embarked on their journey once more. Ahead of them awaited not only the bandits' lair, but also many more unknowns and challenges. Every step they took on this journey would write their immortal legend.
"Next, let's see what this so-called 'game' is all about." Zhao De's words, accompanied by the sound of firm footsteps, echoed through the mountains, ushering in a new adventure.
Sunlight filtered through the treetops, dappling the winding path. Zhao De and his group moved through the woods, each step remarkably determined. Lei Hu led the way, his broad back inspiring a sense of security. He glanced back every now and then to confirm the group's safety.
"These bandits have no idea what trouble they've gotten themselves into, hmph." Lei Hu muttered disdainfully, his fists clenching unconsciously, clearly filled with anticipation for the upcoming battle.
"Don't be careless; there might be hidden experts among the bandits," Zhou Wen warned. He was always the one who remained calm and considered everything thoroughly.
As they ventured deeper into the forest, the light gradually dimmed, and a sense of oppression filled the air. Suddenly, a commotion arose, and the group immediately became alert, slowing their pace and quietly approaching the source of the sound.
"It looks like a bandit camp," Li Qing said softly, pointing to a secluded clearing ahead where a campfire was blazing and the bandits were sitting together, dividing their loot and laughing.
"This number is larger than I expected." Zhao De frowned, estimating the number of enemies and quickly devising a countermeasure in his mind.
Just then, a burly man who looked like the leader of the bandits stood up, raised his wine bag high, and shouted, "Brothers, we've got a lot of good stuff today! Come on, let's drink to our 'heroism'!"
"Heroic? I think it's shameless!" Lei Hu couldn't help but growl, his voice low but filled with intense anger.
"Shh, don't be impulsive." Zhao De quickly stopped them, signaling everyone to observe first and find the best opportunity.
Just as they were discussing their strategy, a passing woodcutter seemed to have noticed their presence. He hid behind a large tree with a look of terror on his face and muttered, "Good heavens, are these people going to attack the bandits? They're really courting death!"
Another passerby, a thin, scholar-like young man, heard the woodcutter's words and his eyes gleamed with curiosity and admiration: "Yes, but judging from their posture, they might actually have some skill."
"Skill? I think it's suicide!" The woodcutter shook his head, but a glimmer of hope appeared in his eyes. "If they can really wipe out the bandits, our lives will be much better."
The conversation between the two inadvertently added a touch of mystery to Zhao De and his group, and also reflected the villagers' deep hatred for the bandits and their yearning for a hero.
Chapter 691 The Power of Justice
Chapter 691 The Power of Justice
As night fell, Zhao De and his men, under the cover of moonlight and shadow, quietly approached the bandit camp. Zhou Wen, using his agility, silently eliminated several sentries, clearing the way for their operation.
"The time has come," Zhao De ordered softly, a resolute glint in his eyes. The others nodded, spreading out in unison, preparing to launch a surprise attack.
"For the innocent villagers, for Amin, for the peace of this land!" Zhao De murmured to himself, then leaped out and headed straight for the bandit leader.
The battle erupted instantly, a chaotic mix of flashing swords, shouts, and clashing metal. Caught off guard, the bandits were quickly divided and surrounded, finding themselves in a fierce struggle.
"Who is this person? How can he be so powerful!" A bandit asked in astonishment after being easily subdued by Lei Hu.
"Hmph, the power of justice is something you bandits will never understand," Zhou Wen coldly replied, his sword flashing as he dispatched another enemy.
Just as the battle was nearing its end, a dark shadow suddenly streaked across the night sky, accompanied by a piercing sneer: "Interesting. It seems I underestimated you."
"Who are you?!" Zhao De looked warily toward the source of the voice, but he already had a vague answer in his mind.
"Who I am is not important. What is important is that your 'heroic' actions seem to have disturbed my peace." The dark figure slowly descended into the center of the camp. Under the moonlight, he was dressed in a black robe, with a sinister face and eyes that seemed to see through people's hearts.
The surrounding crowd, including Zhao De's troops and the captured bandits, erupted in uproar. The woodcutter, who had secretly followed them, witnessed the scene from the shadows and trembled as he said to the scholar beside him, "This...this hero possesses such a powerful aura! He's probably a hundred times stronger than the bandit leader!"
The scholar bit his lip, his eyes filled with both fear and excitement: "Yes, this is going to be interesting. I really want to know if Zhao De and the others can handle such a master."
The shadowy figure smiled contemptuously, surveying the surroundings: "If I weren't in a good mood, you would all be ashes by now. However, in exchange, I want you to leave this place and never set foot here again."
“We cannot leave,” Zhao De said firmly. His voice was calm but undeniable. “If the bandits are not eliminated, the people will never have peace.”
“Foolish.” The shadowy figure shook its head. “Then let me show you true power!”
After he finished speaking, a powerful aura surged from his body, causing fallen leaves to swirl and dust to rise. Everyone was stunned by this power and unable to move.
Just then, a gentle yet undeniably powerful voice rang out: "Wait, why don't you listen to our reasons?" As he spoke, a simply dressed middle-aged man slowly walked out, and his arrival slightly eased the tense atmosphere.
The shadowy figure's gaze fell on the man, paused slightly, and then smiled, "So it's Mr. Li. It's been many years. Has your persuasive skills improved?"