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The Bone Mage stepped out from behind Lu Chen, releasing the aura of a half Void Immortal, which immediately suppressed Chu Yuzhu. Even Huang Jiao and the White-Browed Ancestor beside them changed their expressions.
The Bone Mage, whether in cultivation or experience, was considered top-tier here, deserving respect from everyone. His half Void Immortal aura was even more formidable than that of the Three Poisons Wanderer, and within those sects, he would be honored; his presence could easily intimidate others.
Moreover, his true identity was that of the national teacher appointed by the king of Gaochang Kingdom, holding a high position and authority, capable of directly representing a nation's stance in discussions and actions.
The Gaochang Ancient Kingdom had extensive business dealings with Korea, engaging in many legitimate transactions while also having numerous clandestine dealings. Although these were not openly acknowledged, everyone was aware of them, especially Princess Xiangyi.
"Ah, it is the national teacher. I apologize for my disrespect," the White-Browed Ancestor said as he stepped forward to offer his apologies.
Earlier, the Bone-less Sorcerer seemed to have deliberately concealed his aura until he fully released it upon entering, which stunned everyone present.
The Bone-less Sorcerer smiled and said, "I am merely here as part of the negotiations and to visit the Korean camp. Regardless of any past grievances between Lu Chenyu and you all, I hope you can set aside your differences today and stand on the same front. Once we deal with that Treasure Guardian Beast, how you choose to fight among yourselves is none of my concern."
By clarifying his position and repeatedly referring to Lu Chen as a friend, the Bone-less Sorcerer made it clear that no matter how Korea decided to act, he was aligned with Lu Chen. If all parties could cooperate, it would be a significant advantage.
However, if Korea chose to act unilaterally and refused to cooperate with their counterparts or even sought to confront Lu Chen, then he would intervene.
Upon hearing this, Chu Yuzhu and the others looked very grim; it was an obvious threat directed at them.
Yet if we consider it from another angle, without the Bone-less Sorcerer's threat and without Lu Chen proposing cooperation, their group alone would not be able to defeat the Treasure Guardian Beast.
If the Bone Mage had proposed cooperation, they would have had no objections. But now it was Lu Chen making this suggestion while the Bone-less Sorcerer stood by as a show of force—wasn't this a threat? The dignified Korea, governing the entire Western Seven States, was being threatened by someone else.
Thus, it was clear how uncomfortable Chu Yuzhu and his companions felt at this moment; they had no choice but to agree.
After some standoff, things were settled. Korea sent out the White-Browed Ancestor as their spokesperson to discuss specific matters with Lu Chen and others.
The White-Browed Ancestor let out a cold laugh and set a premise: he would not go to the camp of Lu Chen and the others. It was likely due to the death of Killing that he felt a barrier in his heart, fearing that going to their camp might lead to unforeseen accidents.
In response, Lu Chen merely smiled and did not comment. However, the Bone-less Sorcerer, who was nearby, was very generous and actively invited both Lu Chen and the White-Browed Ancestor to the camp of the Gaochang Ancient Kingdom.
As the intermediary in this matter, the Bone-less Sorcerer's words carried weight, and thus the arrangement was settled.
Soon after, the Bone-less Sorcerer, Lu Chen, and the White-Browed Ancestor all went together to the camp of the Gaochang Ancient Kingdom.
Before long, the three of them were seated in the conference hall of the Gaochang Kingdom's camp, and there was one more person present: the Ganda Prince of the Gaochang Kingdom.
Since they were only discussing battle plans, the entire process involved everyone contributing their efforts, so there was no concern about secrets.
The Gaochang Kingdom's camp was very luxurious, with a throne made of beast bones and a mink fur covering. When Lu Chen and the White-Browed Ancestor arrived, they received the highest honors, with plenty of food and drink lavishly provided.
It seemed that the Gaochang Kingdom did not mind having too many supplies; they even prepared stir-fried dishes and fine wine.
The stir-fried dishes were fresh, featuring tiger liver mixed with vegetables, which were exceptionally delicious. Even Lu Chen couldn't help but eat several bites. After days in the desert, where conditions were quite monotonous, seeing fresh dishes suddenly made him feel tempted.
There was also fine wine, which turned out to be aged brew, rich and fragrant. It must have been ordered by the Ganda Prince from outside. A prince is indeed a prince; wherever he goes, he never spares on food and drink.
With good wine and dishes to enhance the atmosphere, this round of negotiations became very smooth, filled with enjoyment and devoid of tension or annoyance.
It wasn't until late at night that the results of the negotiations finally emerged. The primary condition was that Lu Chen's team would maintain close cooperation with both the Gaochang Kingdom and Korea to form an Alliance Army.
The Alliance Army must not engage in internal strife or resort to underhanded tactics; this was the most important principle. Anyone who violated this principle would inevitably face a siege from the entire Alliance Army.
Furthermore, this relationship within the Alliance Army would need to be maintained until they seized Treasure from the Treasure Guardian Beast. Once they obtained the Treasure, each party could then compete for it based on their own strength. Overall, this proposal was relatively fair.
The main action is set to take place after three days. At this point, there is less than ten days left until the end of the "Three Hottest Days." This means that once the task is completed, everyone must evacuate within less than ten days; otherwise, they will be trapped here by the ice and snow.
After finalizing the plan, late at night, Lu Chen left the Gaochang Kingdom camp and returned to the base alone.
At this time, Princess Zhulan and the others had not yet received any news and were anxiously waiting for Lu Chen's return. When they finally saw Lu Chen return safely, everyone let out a sigh of relief, feeling as if a weight had been lifted from their hearts.
Lu Chen went alone to negotiate with the enemy camp, which made everyone uneasy. What if something went wrong and he got surrounded and captured?
"Lu Chen, you finally made it back! If you had been any later, I would have had to go to the Korean camp to get someone," Princess Zhulan said as she rushed over to him, her face showing a sense of relief.
Lu Chen secretly glanced at Yue Shaoting. Although she was not involved in this competition for the Treasure, Lu Chen's negotiation trip was fraught with danger, which put immense pressure on her.
She was able to maintain her position in this group solely because of her connection to Lu Chen. If something happened to him, she would have no reason to stay.
In fact, if Lu Chen were gone, Princess Zhulan would definitely target Yue Shaoting first. While it might not be a complete extermination, she would certainly drive her away.
At that point, in this vast desert without food or water and without a map, both she and her Shark-Slaying Eight Guards would perish here.
Lu Chen explained the results of the negotiations to everyone while Princess Zhulan and the others listened quietly without saying a word.
They had no choice regarding the outcome of these negotiations. Each side would send out a master to work together to entangle the Treasure Guardian Beast while the rest would do their utmost to collect the Treasure. The opportunity was fair for all.
Now they could only hope that those they brought along would dedicate themselves fully to their tasks.
Lu Chen shared some of his thoughts with Princess Zhulan and the others before they dispersed, waiting for the action after three days.
During these three days, everyone focused on resting and recovering, determined to adjust their Flesh state to its best condition. As for vigilance, aside from guarding against the beasts in the Stone Forest, there was no need to worry about enemy disturbances.
The strongest forces among the factions have ultimately formed the Alliance Army, bound by mutual agreements, and no one would be foolish enough to act against each other at this time.
Moreover, if internal strife were to weaken the Alliance Army's strength and prevent them from defeating the Treasure Guardian Beast, it would be a loss that outweighs any potential gain.
Everyone's goal is to obtain the Treasure. If the Treasure Guardian Beast cannot be defeated, then no one will be able to claim the Treasure, rendering their long journey pointless.
Rather than causing chaos now, it would be better to wait until after defeating the Treasure Guardian Beast; only then will there be opportunities for competition, where success or failure hinges on a single moment.
Therefore, it is clear that everyone here is focused on defeating the Treasure Guardian Beast first, each planning their own strategies and devising ways to outmaneuver their opponents afterward.
By that time, the rules of the Alliance Army will become irrelevant, meaning there will be no constraints. They can act however they wish, eager to strike down their enemies in one blow, hoping to incapacitate them completely for maximum satisfaction.
Additionally, aside from Lu Chen, Bone-less Sorcerer, and White-Browed Ancestor—who have formed a temporary Alliance Army—other mid-tier forces have even less reason to engage in such antics.
They may lack the courage; just the release of Bone-less Sorcerer's half-Void Immortal aura could scare them into submission. Who would dare to act recklessly in such a situation?
Three hours passed quickly.
On the morning of the fourth day, Princess Zhulan and her companions woke up early, packed up their camp, organized supplies, and ensured everything necessary was taken along while discarding unnecessary items.
With Princess Zhulan and Tu Youdong leading, the entire team operated smoothly and efficiently.
Meanwhile, Lu Chen was alone, manifesting as lightning and slicing through the air toward the cave where the Treasure Guardian Beast resided.
In just a moment, a thunderous roar erupted at the cave entrance as Lu Chen appeared out of thin air and landed steadily on the ground.
This commotion immediately roused the sleeping Treasure Guardian Beast inside.
The Treasure Guardian Beast let out a roar as its towering body rose from the Golden Mountain and Silver Mountain, angrily declaring, "Damn humans, it's you again! How dare you disturb my sleep? This time, I won't let you go. Die!"
With that, the Treasure Guardian Beast's powerful limbs pushed off the ground, leaping out of its cave and lunging at Lu Chen.
Seeing the Treasure Guardian Beast charging towards him, Lu Chen remained calm and said, "If I don't deal with you today, I won't be able to obtain this batch of Treasure. It's necessary to take care of you. But I must remind you, someone might try to ambush you later. Whether you can avoid it depends on your own luck."
"Human, are you the one trying to ambush me?" The Bone Mage stepped out from behind Lu Chen, releasing an aura of half Void Immortal that immediately suppressed Chu Yuzhu. Even Huang Jiao and White-Browed Ancestor beside them changed their expressions.
The Bone Mage was highly regarded here due to both his cultivation and experience; everyone had to show him some respect. His half Void Immortal aura was even more formidable than that of the Three Poisons Wanderer. In any Sect, he would be treated with reverence and could easily intimidate others.
Moreover, his true identity was the national teacher appointed by the King of Gaochang Kingdom, holding significant power and authority to directly represent a nation's stance.
The Gaochang Ancient Kingdom had extensive business dealings with Korea, engaging in many legitimate trades while also having numerous clandestine dealings. Although these were not openly acknowledged, everyone was aware of them, especially Princess Xiangyi.
"Ah, it is the national teacher. My apologies," White-Browed Ancestor said as he cupped his hands in greeting and stepped forward to apologize.
Earlier, it seemed that the Bone-less Sorcerer had intentionally concealed his aura until he fully released it upon entering, stunning everyone present.
The Bone-less Sorcerer smiled and said, "I am merely here as part of the negotiations for the Korean camp. Regardless of any past grievances between Lu Chenyu and you all, I hope that today you can set aside your differences and stand on the same front. Once we deal with that Treasure Guardian Beast, how you choose to fight among yourselves is none of my concern."
By clearly stating his position and referring to Lu Chen as a friend, the Bone-less Sorcerer made it evident that no matter how Korea decided to act, he would stand with Lu Chen. If all parties could cooperate, it would be a tremendous benefit.
However, if Korea insisted on acting unilaterally without cooperating with others or even targeting Lu Chen, then he would have to intervene.
Chu Yuzhu and the others looked very grim upon hearing this; it was a clear threat directed at them.
Yet if we consider it from another perspective, even without threats from the Bone-less Sorcerer or cooperation proposed by Lu Chen, their group alone would not be able to defeat the Treasure Guardian Beast.
If the Bone Mage had proposed the collaboration, they would naturally have no objections. But now it was Lu Chen making this suggestion, with the Bone-less Sorcerer standing by as a show of force—wasn't that a threat? The dignified Korea, governing the entire Western Seven States, was actually being threatened by someone.
Therefore, it goes without saying how uncomfortable Chu Yuzhu and the others felt at this moment; they had to agree even if they didn't want to.
After a standoff, things were settled. Korea sent the White-Browed Ancestor as their spokesperson to discuss specific matters with Lu Chen and the others.
The White-Browed Ancestor sneered and put forth a condition: he would not go to Lu Chen's camp. It was likely due to the death of Killing that he felt a sense of distance, fearing that an accident might occur if he entered Lu Chen's camp.
In response, Lu Chen merely smiled and did not comment. On the other hand, the Bone-less Sorcerer was very magnanimous, actively inviting Lu Chen and the White-Browed Ancestor to visit the Gaochang Ancient Kingdom's camp.
As the intermediary in this matter, the Bone-less Sorcerer's words carried weight, and thus the arrangement was finalized.
Soon after, the Bone-less Sorcerer, Lu Chen, and the White-Browed Ancestor went together to the Gaochang Ancient Kingdom's camp.
Before long, the three were seated in the conference hall of Gaochang Kingdom's camp, accompanied by one more person—the Ganda Prince of Gaochang Kingdom.
Since they were merely discussing battle plans and everyone was contributing their efforts, there was no concern about secrecy.
The Gaochang Kingdom's camp was very luxurious, featuring a beast bone throne and mink fur for padding. When Lu Chen and the White-Browed Ancestor arrived, they received the highest honors—plenty of delicious food and drink to lavishly entertain them.
It was unclear whether Gaochang Kingdom was unconcerned about carrying too much supplies; they even prepared stir-fried dishes and fine wine.
The stir-fried dishes were fresh, with tiger liver mixed with vegetables—a taste that could be described as exceptional. Even Lu Chen couldn't help but take a few bites. After days in the desert, where conditions were truly monotonous, seeing fresh dishes suddenly made him somewhat tempted.
There was also fine wine, which turned out to be aged brew—rich and fragrant. It must have been ordered by the Ganda Prince from outside. A prince is indeed a prince; wherever he goes, he never spares any expense on food and drink.
With fine wine and dishes to enhance the atmosphere, this round of negotiations became very smooth—full of interest and devoid of any tension or annoyance.
Until late at night, the results of the negotiations finally came out. The primary condition was that the team led by Lu Chen, along with the Gaochang Kingdom and Korea, would maintain close cooperation to form the Alliance Army.
The Alliance Army must not engage in internal strife or resort to underhanded tactics; this is the most important principle. Anyone who violates this principle will inevitably face a siege from the entire Alliance Army.
Furthermore, this relationship within the Alliance Army must be maintained until they seize the Treasure from the Treasure Guardian Beast. Once they obtain the Treasure, the three parties can then compete for it based on their own strength. Overall, this proposal is relatively fair.
The operation is set to commence in three days. At this time, there is less than ten days remaining until the end of the Three Hottest Days. This means that once this matter is completed, everyone must evacuate within less than ten days; otherwise, they will be trapped here by the snow and ice.
With everything settled, late at night, Lu Chen left the Gaochang Kingdom camp and returned alone to his own camp.
At this moment, Princess Zhulan and the others had not received any news and were anxiously waiting for Lu Chen's return. When they finally saw Lu Chen return safely, everyone let out a sigh of relief, and the weight on their hearts was lifted.
Lu Chen had gone alone to negotiate with the enemy camp; who could feel at ease about such a thing? What if something went wrong and he got surrounded and captured by them?
"Lu Chen, you finally returned! If you were any later, I would have gone to Korea's camp to demand someone," Princess Zhulan said as she rushed over to him, her expression one of relief.
Lu Chen secretly glanced at Yue Shaoting. Although she was not involved in this round of competition for the Treasure, Lu Chen's negotiation trip was fraught with danger, which put immense pressure on her as well.
She was able to retain her position in this team entirely due to her connection with Lu Chen. If anything happened to him, she would have no reason to stay.
In fact, if Lu Chen were no longer around, Princess Zhulan would surely be the first to deal with Yue Shaoting. While it might not be a complete extermination, driving her away would be inevitable.
At that time, in this vast desert without food or water and without a map, she and her Shark-Slaying Eight Guards would all perish here.
Lu Chen explained the results of the negotiations to everyone. Princess Zhulan and the others listened quietly without saying a word.
They had no way to change such negotiation results. Each side would send out a master to jointly entangle the Treasure Guardian Beast while the rest would do their utmost to collect as much Treasure as possible. This opportunity was indeed quite fair.
With that, all they hoped was that the people they brought could dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to their tasks.
Lu Chen conveyed some matters to Princess Zhulan and the others through his thoughts. Soon, everyone dispersed, waiting for the actions to take place three hours later.
During these three hours, everyone focused on recuperating and ensuring their Flesh state was at its best. As for vigilance, aside from guarding against the beasts in the Stone Forest, there was no need to worry about enemy disturbances.
The strongest factions had formed the Alliance Army, bound by mutual agreements; no one would be foolish enough to act against each other at this time.
Moreover, if internal strife were to weaken the Alliance Army's strength and prevent them from defeating the Treasure Guardian Beast, it would be a significant loss.
Everyone's goal was to obtain the Treasure. If the Treasure Guardian Beast could not be defeated, then no one would be able to claim the Treasure, rendering their long journey pointless.
Rather than causing chaos now, it would be better to wait until after defeating the Treasure Guardian Beast; only then would there be a chance to fight back, with success or failure hinging on a moment.
Thus, it was clear that everyone here was focused on defeating the Treasure Guardian Beast first and then devising strategies to outsmart their opponents afterward.
At that point, the Alliance Army's agreements would become void, meaning there would be no constraints. They could act however they pleased, eager to strike down their enemies in one blow, ideally incapacitating them completely for satisfaction.
Additionally, aside from Lu Chen and the temporary Alliance Army formed with the Bone-less Sorcerer and White-Browed Ancestor, other mid-tier forces had even less reason to engage in such antics.
They might not even have the courage; just releasing half of the Void Immortal aura from the Bone-less Sorcerer could scare them into submission—who would dare act recklessly?
Three hours passed quickly.
On the morning of the fourth hour, Princess Zhulan and her companions woke up early, dismantling their tents and organizing supplies, ensuring everything necessary was packed while discarding unnecessary items.
With Princess Zhulan and Tu Youdong leading, the entire team operated smoothly and efficiently.
Lu Chen was alone, manifesting as lightning, cutting through the air towards the cave where the Treasure Guardian Beast resided.
In just a moment, a thunderous roar echoed at the cave entrance as Lu Chen appeared out of nowhere and landed steadily on the ground.
This commotion immediately startled the Treasure Guardian Beast, who had been sleeping inside.
The Treasure Guardian Beast let out an angry roar, its towering body rising from between Golden Mountain and Silver Mountain. It shouted, "Damn human, it's you again! How dare you disturb my sleep? This time I won't let you go. Die!"
With that, the Treasure Guardian Beast powerfully pushed off with its strong limbs, leaping out of the cave and lunging at Lu Chen.
Seeing the Treasure Guardian Beast charging at him, Lu Chen remained calm and said, "If I don't deal with you today, I definitely won't be able to obtain this batch of Treasure. It's necessary to take care of you. But I must remind you that someone might try to ambush you later. Whether you can avoid it depends on your own luck."
"Human, are you the one trying to ambush me?"
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