Chapter 221 Secret Meeting: Crisis Approaching
Chapter 221 Secret Meeting: Crisis Approaching
Inside the council hall of the Qingyun Sect, candlelight flickered, and the atmosphere was as heavy as the calm before a storm. Zhang Peng sat upright in the main seat, his fingers lightly tapping the table, lost in thought. Below, Wang Yongli and several elders were conversing in hushed tones, discussing strategies for dealing with the mysterious force.
“Patriarch, the scouts sent to the market have reported back.” Wang Yongli stepped forward, his expression slightly grave. “That mysterious force seems to be related to an ancient cultivation family. They have been secretly hoarding spirit stones and seem to be planning a large-scale spiritual energy-driven ritual, but their specific purpose is still unclear.”
Zhang Peng frowned, a hint of worry flashing in his eyes: "A large-scale spiritual energy-driven ritual? This is no small matter. They're not letting us sell spirit stones; are they afraid we'll disrupt their plans?"
An elder stroked his beard and said slowly, "Very likely. If their ritual requires a large number of high-quality spirit stones, our large-scale sales in the market will inevitably affect the price and circulation of spirit stones, disrupting their plans."
Zhang Peng nodded, thinking to himself, "It seems we need to speed up our cooperation with other sects to jointly deal with this mysterious force. By the way, how's the contact with Qingfeng Valley going?"
Wang Yongli replied, "We have already contacted Qingfeng Valley, and they are very interested in our proposed spiritual material trade and cooperation. The Valley Master of Qingfeng Valley invites you to visit Qingfeng Valley in person to discuss the specific details of the cooperation."
“Alright, I will set off for Qingfeng Valley tomorrow.” Zhang Peng made a decisive decision. “In the meantime, Wang Yongli, you must strengthen the sect’s defenses and keep a close eye on the movements of the mysterious force. Report to me immediately if there is any abnormality.”
"Yes, Master." Wang Yongli accepted the order and left.
As night fell, Zhang Peng went to the courtyard alone, trying to clear his mind. The moonlight shone on him, outlining his resolute features. Just then, he heard soft footsteps approaching. Zhang Peng turned around and saw Xia Lijuan walking slowly towards him.
"Zhang Peng, I heard you're going to Qingfeng Valley?" Xia Lijuan's voice was gentle, with a hint of concern.
Zhang Peng nodded slightly: "Yes, cooperation with Qingfeng Valley is very important to us, as it concerns the future development of our family and our strategy for dealing with the mysterious forces."
Xia Lijuan walked to his side and sighed softly: "I know you have a heavy burden on your shoulders. Although my cultivation is not as good as yours, I want to share some of the burden with you."
Looking at Xia Lijuan, Zhang Peng felt a surge of warmth in his heart: "With you by my side, I feel very at ease. During this time, don't slack off in your cultivation; improve your strength, because we will face even more challenges in the future."
Xia Lijuan nodded firmly: "I will. Be careful when you go to Qingfeng Valley, I'll wait for you to come back."
The two chatted for a while longer before Zhang Peng returned to his room to prepare for tomorrow's itinerary.
The next morning, Zhang Peng rode the Golden-Winged Roc towards Qingfeng Valley. Along the way, his mind was filled with thoughts, pondering the various details of cooperating with Qingfeng Valley.
Soon, Zhang Peng arrived at Qingfeng Valley. As its name suggests, Qingfeng Valley was filled with gentle breezes, spiritual energy, and beautiful scenery. The Valley Master was already waiting at the entrance and immediately went to greet Zhang Peng.
"Nephew Zhang Peng, you must be tired from your journey," the Valley Master said with a broad smile.
"Valley Master, you're too kind. I've come here today to discuss our two collaborations, and I hope you'll give me your guidance," Zhang Peng replied politely.
The two arrived at the council hall of Qingfeng Valley and took their seats as host and guest. After some pleasantries, Zhang Peng got straight to the point, informing the Valley Master in detail about the situation of Qingyun Sect and their intention to cooperate.
After listening, the Valley Master nodded slightly: "Nephew Zhang Peng is absolutely right. The situation in the cultivation world is currently turbulent. Cooperation between our two sects will surely bring mutual benefit and win-win results. Regarding the trade of spiritual materials, our Qingfeng Valley can provide you with some of the spiritual materials you need in exchange for your high-quality spirit stones. As for jointly dealing with the mysterious forces, we are also willing to send elite disciples to fight alongside you."
Zhang Peng was overjoyed, not expecting Qingfeng Valley to be so agreeable: "That's excellent. Valley Master is truly wise and understanding. It is a great fortune for our Qingyun Sect."
Just as the two were discussing the details of their cooperation, a disciple from Qingfeng Valley rushed over, looking panicked: "Valley Master, something terrible has happened! A mysterious force is approaching Qingfeng Valley, and judging from their demeanor, they are up to no good!"
Zhang Peng and the Valley Master's expressions changed drastically. They exchanged a glance, a sense of foreboding rising in their hearts.
PFC