Earlier, when Lu Ran recounted his personal experiences, he had mentioned He Qifeng, though he hadn't elaborated.

Now, after Lu Ran gave detailed introductions, the two Island Masters were utterly astonished!

He Yingcai sighed and said, "Such ambition, such courage! Truly deserving of the title of Da Xia's genius!"

She naturally knew who He Qifeng was.

That person? Not just a genius?

But a once-in-forty-years unparalleled talent!

Why say this?

Because, all things considered, the descent of God Demons has only lasted forty years.

The First-class God·Martial Monk had always only accepted male disciples, yet made an exception once to accept a female disciple.

Enough to show just how explosive He Qifeng's talent was!

If not for Lu Ran, this monstrous prodigy, He Qifeng would have been Da Xia's first genius!

Of course, for the other participating students, wasn't He Qifeng also seen as a "monster"?

"Thunder Mountain's foundation has rotted thoroughly, so it must be cleaned out." Lu Ran held his tea cup, looking at the clear tea inside.

Casual words, yet his tone carried earth-shattering implications!

The Grey Lotus Island Master felt her heart tremble slightly, watching as Lu Ran downed the tea in one gulp.

This boy...

Truly domineering to the extreme!

So young, yet with such courage.

The winds of Holy Spirit Mountain were indeed on the cusp of change.

He Yingcai picked up the teapot and poured tea for Lu Ran thoughtfully. "Since Junior Brother Lu has already formed a deep alliance with City Lord He Qifeng, then, you must share similar visions?"

Lu Ran remained silent.

At the neighboring table, Deng Yuxiang's lips curved lightly, while the Phoenix and Swallow Generals exchanged bright-eyed glances.

The vision held by their Sect Master? Far grander than that of the City Lord of the Forbidden City!

"Junior Brother Lu?" He Yingcai called softly.

Lu Ran did not answer, his eyes instead on the tea and pastries on the table, ears attuned to beautiful flute music.

These seemingly mundane elements concealed Yun Qianzhou's philosophy of leadership.

The former served to remind everyone they were human, while the latter cautioned alliance members that they were as close as brothers.

Presumably, He Qifeng would be very willing to build ties with Yun Qianzhou!

If the Thousand Boat Alliance's support could be secured, He Qifeng's career would surely soar.

In this battle, He Qifeng would very likely come to aid.

Lu Ran was also well aware of his considerable influence; as long as he requested, He Qifeng would likely extend a hand.

But Lu Ran did not wish to owe favors.

On the contrary, he wanted to help He Qifeng realize his grand ambitions!

What is owed to me, repay it with your identity as the "Ran Sect's Divine General."

In the future, the citizens of the Divine General's city would all count as my believers...

"I left her one Divine Weapon specifically for swift communication." Lu Ran looked at the two Island Masters, "I can contact her right now."

The two Island Masters exchanged glances, barely containing their excitement.

Could the Thousand Boat Alliance be rescued?

They had originally intended to ask the Ran Sect for help—more skilled hands, more chances of victory.

Unexpectedly...

The Master of Ran Sect wielded influence that reached beyond the clouds, able to summon forces from the First-class God's sect at Wuji Peak?

He Yingcai spoke softly, "Much obliged, Junior Brother."

Grey Lotus Island Master leaned on her staff and stood upright, bowing deeply. "If Master Lu can help our Thousand Boat Alliance through this calamity, this mere drop of kindness will be repaid in torrents!"

Lu Ran: "Can you speak on behalf of the Thousand Boat Alliance?"

He Yingcai quickly replied, "Senior Pang Yuan is the leader of our Seven Lotus Islands, and can fully represent the Bi He Sect."

It was only now that Lu Ran learned Grey Lotus Island Master's real name.

Pang Yuan spoke gravely, "Master Lu, I'll now inform the leaders of all sects and convene a meeting."

Lu Ran immediately stopped him, "Hold on, let me contact Qifeng first."

"Please." Pang Yuan nodded.

Lu Ran closed his eyes and mentally reached out to the Divine Weapon·Silent Night Blade.

[Hmm?] Silent Night sounded surprised.

Lu Ran replied apologetically: [Sorry to bother you, Silent Night. Could you ask He Qifeng for me if she wants to seize an opportunity I'm offering her?]

Moments later, Silent Night transmitted thoughts back: [She asks if you've returned from the Northwest.]

Lu Ran: [Yes, ask her whether she wants this opportunity.]

Silent Night: [She asks why you haven't come to the Forbidden City to report directly to her.]

Lu Ran: "..."

I'm not her subordinate; report for what?

The Silent Night Blade continued relaying messages, enabling exchanges between the City Lord and Master of Ran Sect.

Upon hearing that Lu Ran was already in the southeast of Holy Spirit Mountain Continent, He Qifeng nearly fumed with anger!

"Weren't you supposed to be exploring the Northwest?"

"How did you end up in the southeast?"

"It really is different when one's powerful!"

"The vast heavens and earth, free for your wandering, huh?"

"No wonder someone couldn't care less about my Magical Artifact·Wind Barrier Treasure Pearl!"

After this wave of remarks, Lu Ran was left utterly flustered.

The broad-minded and ambitious City Lord He Qifeng, acting like a little girl...

Lu Ran was also puzzled—how had He Qifeng managed to convince Silent Night to relay each word verbatim?

Truly absurd!

After much effort, Lu Ran finally finished discussing business.

As expected, He Qifeng was quite intrigued by a "neutral yet orderly" camp like the Thousand Boat Alliance!

Upon hearing that Thunder Mountain intended to strike at the Thousand Boat Alliance, He Qifeng paused briefly before agreeing to aid.

They chatted for a long time before Lu Ran slowly opened his eyes.

Under the scrutinizing gaze of everyone present, Lu Ran nodded and said, "He Qifeng will come to assess the situation."

"Wonderful!" Pang Yuan nodded immediately.

Lu Ran then turned to Jiang Ruyi and said softly, "She asked me to go pick her up."

Jiang Ruyi pondered briefly and nodded lightly.

She considered suggesting that since the Silent Night Blade was with He Qifeng, she could follow the weapon's guidance to find Lu Ran.

But then it occurred to her that this was, after all, Lu Ran who had extended the invitation.

Going to receive her would also be an expression of goodwill.

Grey Lotus Island Master·Pang Yuan expressed gratitude: "Thank you, Master Lu, for assisting us! I'll dispatch extra manpower to escort you as you go meet City Lord He."

Holy Spirit Mountain is riddled with dangers!

For most, the individual must tightly adhere to an organization; how could one simply roam freely through the mountains?

But Lu Ran? He immediately decided to go pick someone up—this journey would surely be fraught with peril, possibly even death!

What kind of leader is this?

So, this is Da Xia's carefully selected genius?

Lu Ran, He Qifeng...

That night, Grey Lotus Island Master, hearing their names for the first time, had his perception thoroughly shaken.

"No need, I have my own team." Lu Ran shook his head in refusal, then stood up saying, "I'll rest here tonight and set out tomorrow morning."

"Understood." He Yingcai saw Lu Ran rise and instantly said, "Shall I show you to your quarters?"

"Yes." Lu Ran nodded slightly.

While he was well aware of the urgency, a journey's time is finite!

If Lu Ran so wished, he could reach the Forbidden City in a single night.

The problem was, what about the return journey?

Eventually, he'd need to lead Big Wind Hall back to Mist Rain Lake!

If he reached He Qifeng's side overnight but took seven to eight days to return, how would that look?

That wouldn't do...

Accompanied by the two Island Masters, Lu Ran and Jiang Ruyi ventured into the forest, settling inside a secluded courtyard.

Nearby were two wooden cabins, sufficient to house Ran Sect's soldiers.

The Island Masters, being tactful, departed promptly after arranging everything.

As the disciples of Bi He Sect departed, Ran Sect's group gathered in the courtyard's main hall for a small meeting.

"Mr. Cong Long, this time when I go to fetch her, you won't need to accompany." Lu Ran looked at Yu Changsheng.

"You have other arrangements for me, Sect Master?" asked Yu Changsheng.

"Mr. Cong Long's calculations are unparalleled," Lu Ran laughed. "During my time at Wuji Peak, please help investigate the Thousand Boat Alliance thoroughly.

Meet with the Island Masters and get an understanding of the specifics here.

I'll leave the Dawn Blade with you so we can communicate anytime."

Yu Changsheng accepted the assignment immediately.

While he didn't suspect the two Island Masters of deceiving Ran Sect, getting deeper insight was naturally necessary.

In fact, Yu Changsheng was delighted that Lu Ran was wading into murky waters!

At the campfire banquet earlier, he had stood from his neighboring table and analyzed the situation for everyone with the deliberate goal of pulling Lu Ran into this.

If Lu Ran had chosen to play it safe, Yu Changsheng would have privately worked hard to persuade him.

The battle between the Thousand Boat Alliance and Thunder Mountain could be considered a war!

A life-and-death war!

Once fighting breaks out, both sides would suffer heavy casualties.

Sky Phoenix, Chenghua, Bi He, Sword Lotus, Dong Ting...

How many dead souls would be contributed by the various factions?

How much divine energy could their Sect Master absorb from them?

Yu Changsheng knew, Lu Ran was no ruthless overlord; some things couldn't be said outright.

Thus, at the banquet, he had carefully prepared arguments, deliberating how best to persuade him gently.

Yet, Lu Ran agreed on the spot, sparing Yu Changsheng from expending effort.

"Mr. Cong Long, equipped with the Dawn Blade, Cold Moon Sword, and Misty Rain Fan, should be more than sufficient." Lu Ran smiled as he looked at Yu Changsheng. "Having protectors for you would only be a burden.

The Dragon Carp Sect is most skilled at running away."

Yu Changsheng: "..."

The logic, flawless.

But why does it sound so unpleasant?

Indeed, the Dragon Carp Sect holds the Life-Saving Divine Skill·Survival Carp.

The Sea Grade Divine Technique·Survival Carp is enough for Yu Changsheng to leave behind a life-saving small Dragon Carp thousands of kilometers away.

A Dragon Carp believer can instantly adjust locations, rupturing the Survival Carp to replace it.

In essence, it acts as a teleportation skill.

Although its essence is more of a survival technique, compared to true teleportation, it consumes a staggering amount of Divine Power!

Back when Yu Changsheng assisted Lu Ran against the Sword One believer, he relied on this method to escape into highland lakes.

"Everyone, go rest. Tomorrow, accompany me on this outing." Lu Ran looked at the others.

"Yes!"

"Understood." The group rose and left, leaving the secluded courtyard to the Sect Master and his Lady.

The two entered the bedroom, where Jiang Ruyi thoughtfully suggested, "The situation here is urgent. Thunder Mountain could invade at any moment.

If we're heading out to meet her, have He Qifeng follow the Silent Night Blade's guidance and move toward us as well."

"Hmm, that sounds good." Lu Ran licked his lips.

Jiang Ruyi observed this subtle gesture and softly asked, "You seem... rather eager?"

"When I was annihilating Tiantu Mountain, I captured two Dong Ting disciples. They mentioned that Thunder Mountain enslaved many weak god believers."

As he spoke, Lu Ran reached out and encircled Jiang Fairy's graceful waist. "If by seizing this opportunity, we can uproot Thunder Mountain entirely, not only could we save lives but also benefit those entering the mountain in the future."

Jiang Ruyi silently nodded.

Lu Ran buried his head in her neck, breathing in lightly, trying to recall the scent of jasmine.

Her petite and fair ear lobes bore a faint pink hue.

Delicate, alluring.

"We're still outside." Jiang Ruyi whispered softly in reminder.

Yet Lu Ran gently kissed the adorable ear lobe, his heart stirring!

Indeed, he felt eager, craving for a bold move!

A festering wound must be wholly cleansed before fresh, bleeding flesh can regenerate.

If Ran Sect and their allies could eliminate Thunder Mountain this time, then next...

Ran Sect could storm through Sword Ridge Peak!

Lu Ran naturally kept his promise: to bring along the Evil Shadow Guardian and settle scores with the North Wind Sect's vile group!

"Lu, Lu Ran..."

"Hmm?"

"We're still outside... This isn't Cloud Sea Cliff." Jiang Ruyi's voice grew quieter and softer.

"Understood." Lu Ran lifted his fiancée's charming face, pressing a heavy kiss on those slender lips.

...

There's another chapter at midnight.

It's late! Everyone can read it tomorrow.

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