The young man with triangular eyes smiled awkwardly and explained, "We really have no malicious intent; moreover, the special training rules state that we can't engage in combat on the first day. If we are caught, we'll be disqualified." As he spoke, the other four nodded their heads in agreement, indicating they truly harbored no hostility.

Carefree Meng Lan's expression slightly softened, yet she still maintained a defensive stance. Though the rules were clear, she understood that it was difficult to predict what this group's true intentions might be. If they knew her exact route, they might act by the second day.

"We're here to participate in the special training," the young man with triangular eyes continued. "Since we are all on the same path, why not move forward together? This forest is fraught with danger; an additional person means additional strength." He attempted to persuade Luo Chen and the others to join forces.

Carefree Meng Lan slightly shook her head, indicating her refusal.

Ling Yueyaya looked at these five men with a playful expression, as if contemplating something.

Luo Chen maintained a vigilant attitude, refraining from expressing any opinions.

The situation was quite awkward and tense.

The five men seemed to perceive the mistrust and defensive mentality of Luo Chen and the others. They didn't insist or make any aggressive moves but chose to quietly leave.

Even though they didn't know the true purpose and intentions of those five men, it seemed that, at least for the moment, they posed no threat or harm.

However, they knew that everyone could potentially be an enemy in this forest. Therefore, they had to remain constantly vigilant and defensive to ensure their safety.

"If there's no malicious intent, why were you sneaking in the dark?" Carefree Meng Lan's words carried a hint of displeasure and vigilance. She knew that in the crisis-laden Forest of Death, every subtle move might conceal a deep-seated conspiracy.

The young man with triangular eyes hesitated slightly, seemingly surprised that Carefree Meng Lan would directly question him. He pondered briefly, determination flashing in his eyes as if having made a decision, "To be honest, we want to cooperate with you."

Carefree Meng Lan raised her brow, not easily revealing her attitude toward this sudden proposal for cooperation. In such a hostile environment, any rash decision could lead to unpredictable consequences. She fixed her gaze on the young man's triangular eyes, trying to discern some genuine intention.

Under Carefree Meng Lan's scrutiny, the young man with triangular eyes appeared slightly awkward, "We want to go to the Valley of Darkness to kill the 'Dark Demon,' but our team lacks a woman. We heard that the Dark Demon has a special liking for women; having a woman in our group might make it easier to lure the Dark Demon out."

Upon hearing this, Carefree Meng Lan's face changed, her tone suddenly turning cold, "So you're playing us for bait?" Her voice carried unmistakable displeasure and vigilance. The idea of being used as bait made her feel deeply uncomfortable.

The young man with triangular eyes quickly explained, "Miss, please don't misunderstand. We only hope to cooperate with you. If the Dark Demon is slain, you will get the majority of the credit, and I'm willing to give you the Spirit Pearl." He attempted to entice Carefree Meng Lan with benefits to alleviate the tense atmosphere.

However, Carefree Meng Lan was not easily swayed. She was well aware that such benefits were often accompanied by great risk. She turned to Luo Chen and the others, seeking their opinions with her eyes.

Luo Chen was perplexed. He asked Ling Yueyaya beside him, "What is the 'Dark Demon'? What does it have to do with you?" He felt confused by this sudden cooperation proposal, uncertain if it was a trap.

Ling Yueyaya giggled and didn't mind explaining the question, "The Dark Demon, naturally, is a filthy spirit, but the Dark Demon is full of treasures. If you kill one, its rewards could fetch a price of tens of thousands of Golden Soul Coins outside."

Upon hearing Ling Yueyaya's explanation, Luo Chen and the others finally understood. Apparently, these five people proposed cooperation because they wanted to leverage Carefree Meng Lan and Ling Yueyaya's strengths to lure and hunt the Dark Demon. The treasure within the Dark Demon was undeniably their greatest lure.

After listening to Ling Yueyaya's explanation, Carefree Meng Lan fell into deep thought. She understood that although the cooperation proposal was filled with risks, it also presented a great allure of benefits. If they could successfully hunt the Dark Demon, not only would they gain abundant rewards but also stand out in the special training. However, she had to consider carefully whether this cooperation was worth the risk.

The young man with triangular eyes noticed Carefree Meng Lan's hesitation and continued, "We know this mission is dangerous, but we've prepared thoroughly. Our team has members skilled in reconnaissance and traps, and a powerful warrior. If you are willing to join, I am confident we can successfully hunt the Dark Demon." His tone was filled with determination and confidence, as if he had already seen the dawn of victory.

Carefree Meng Lan took a deep breath, turned to Luo Chen and the others, "What do you think?" She wanted to hear the views of her companions and make this important decision together.

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