Higher than Dou Ling, is it Dou Wang?
Fighting at the level of a Dou Wang is incredibly powerful, and such individuals are considered absolute elites, even across the entire Gama Empire. It was clear that there must be a formidable force supporting these two individuals.
Xiao Ding's thoughts raced, realizing that he was dealing with someone who should not be provoked. The best course of action was to cooperate and avoid any actions that might offend them. Failure to do so could lead to the swift demise of the Motie Mercenary Corps.
Despite Lu Yunxiao's polite and refined demeanor, Xiao Ding understood that it was merely a façade. This Young Master Lu likely viewed the entire Motie Mercenary Corps with indifference. He could speak softly and politely, but underneath, he possessed the power to obliterate everything.
His transition from politeness to fierceness was genuine, not an act.
"Master Lu, rest assured, the Motie Mercenary Corps always ensures that information remains confidential," Xiao Ding replied cautiously.
"That's good. I wouldn't want any unpleasant incidents," Lu Yunxiao said, his eyes briefly flashing with golden light. With a flick of his right hand, he produced a jade bottle.
"In this jade bottle are two second-grade Qi Enhancing Pills. They can temporarily boost the strength of a martial master. I'll offer them as an incentive for locating the mysterious-level martial skill."
Lu Yunxiao tossed the jade bottle to Xiao Ding.
"Thank you, Master Lu," Xiao Ding said gratefully as he accepted it. A second-grade Qi Enhancing Pill was a valuable commodity, and it was not something they could easily afford.
The pharmacist's status was high, and even a second-grade pill was considered precious. Two Qi Enhancing Pills were worth tens of thousands of gold coins, an amount beyond their means.
"Master Lu, there's no need to trouble yourselves. We'll immediately begin arranging the search for the Strange Fire. We'll notify you as soon as we find any information," Xiao Ding assured him with respect.
"Then I'll leave it to the two leaders," Lu Yunxiao replied.
"No trouble at all. Second Brother, please escort Master Lu to the best guest room," Xiao Ding instructed his brother.
"Master Lu, please follow me," Xiao Li said, extending his hand to lead Lu Yunxiao, who was accompanied by Hai Bodong.
As Lu Yunxiao's figure gradually disappeared from view, Xiao Ding let out a sigh of relief. The pressure he felt from Lu Yunxiao had been immense. It seemed that Lu Yunxiao had seen through his thoughts. His mention of Rob had likely been interpreted as an attempt to use Lu Yunxiao to deal with Rob. Lu Yunxiao had been quick to grasp this, and his final warning served to not only ensure the confidentiality of the mission but also to discourage any ambitions.
The gift of a second-grade Qi Enhancing Pill was akin to offering a sweet reward with a warning. Lu Yunxiao's methods were shrewd.
"What a formidable young man," Xiao Ding mused quietly. Lu Yunxiao's cultivation talent appeared monstrous, and his keen intelligence and mental acuity were far from ordinary. The pressure he exerted was akin to a mountain.
"Fortunately, we have Qinglin. Lu Yunxiao seems to have a different perspective on her. Let Qinglin serve him. It might be beneficial for our Motie Mercenary Corps," Xiao Ding decided.
...
"Intriguing, the commander of this Motie Mercenary Corps is not bad," Hai Bodong commented as he and Lu Yunxiao sat facing each other in a guest room.
"His methods are indeed decent, but his strength is lacking. A four-star martial master falls far short. After all, this world values strength above all else. His future is limited, and it's not something to concern ourselves with," Lu Yunxiao remarked, taking a sip of tea.
"That's true. While he's intelligent, he doesn't possess your talents, my boy. You've grown up," Hai Bodong said with a hint of relief. Lu Yunxiao had indeed matured since his childhood.
Lu Yunxiao raised an eyebrow, smiling in response to Hai Bodong's comment.
"But, my boy, now that you've grown up, when will you bring a wife back? After the coming-of-age ceremony, you'll be of an age to marry," Hai Bodong asked, a playful tone in his voice.
"Don't worry; I have a goal, and I'll definitely introduce her to you," Lu Yunxiao assured him.
"Which girl is it? What does she look like? Is she worthy of you?" Hai Bodong inquired three times in succession.
Lu Yunxiao responded, "You'll find out in due time. There's no need to reveal it now. As for her appearance and temperament, I can only say that she's exceptional. I promise you'll be satisfied."
Hai Bodong laughed, "Interesting. I'm even more curious now."
Seeing Lu Yunxiao's demeanor, Hai Bodong felt a strong itch of curiosity. He genuinely wanted to know what kind of woman could earn Lu Yunxiao's praise. For someone like Lu Yunxiao, who was exceptionally talented and had a striking presence, it wouldn't be easy for anyone to win his admiration.
"Curious? I hope you won't be too astonished, and perhaps even shocked," Lu Yunxiao said with a smile.
"I'll be shocked? You underestimate me," Hai Bodong retorted, feeling a bit challenged.
"Then we'll wait and see," Lu Yunxiao responded with a smile.
"Then we'll wait and see," Hai Bodong echoed. "My boy, why are you so interested in that young girl? Don't misunderstand me; I don't think she's worthy of you."
Lu Yunxiao clarified, "Don't misunderstand; Qinglin is only twelve years old. She's very young. I like her, but it's more like an affection for a little sister. There's no romantic love involved. And please, don't speak disparagingly about her in front of her. She's had a difficult life, so let's not add to her burdens."
Hai Bodong nodded in understanding, "Understood. Let's move on."
With that, they changed the subject and continued their conversation.