"Brother Gai Yuankai, given your experience, you could have easily found a stable, decent position within Dragon Sword Manor. There was no need to keep drifting about outside like this."
"And as long as you worked hard, Dragon Sword Manor would naturally not mistreat anyone. It could also serve as a solid backing."
Xu Shan kept a wary eye on the surroundings as he spoke quietly to Gai Yuankai.
"Thank you for your kindness, Captain Xu, but I've grown used to being free and unrestrained. I may still prefer this kind of unfettered life." Gai Yuankai smiled.
Xu Shan nodded and said no more. His gaze suddenly fell upon Ye Tian and Luosen, who had remained inconspicuous not far ahead.
"Why are there people like that in your team? They clearly don't look experienced in fighting demon beasts. You've always been cautious—why would you bring them along?" Xu Shan asked.
Gai Yuankai smiled. Many people had asked him this along the way, and he had already grown accustomed to it.
"These two brothers are both in the Nascent Soul Realm, so they aren't weak. They also have considerable courage. With some training, they may well become the backbone of fighting demon beasts in the future," Gai Yuankai said.
This was also the view that carried slightly more weight in Gai Yuankai's heart. Those other guesses were ultimately too ethereal.
"Brother Gai is thoughtful," Xu Shan praised.
After observing them, Xu Shan realized that Ye Tian and Luosen's calmness and composure within the pitch-black Demon Realm Forest clearly could not have been feigned. This piqued his curiosity, and he asked for their names.
Gai Yuankai then introduced the three of them to one another, making a simple acquaintance.
"On the Southern Continent of the Demon Realm, it is not easy for