"They're from the Chamber of Commerce." Venerable Lingfeng came to Chu Ming's side and said in a low voice, "They've been lingering here. I'm afraid they're here for more than just gathering materials. Perhaps... they sensed the fluctuations within the valley, or the aura of the Dao Seed on you, little friend Chu."
Light flickered in Chu Ming's eyes. The Star Sea Chamber of Commerce was neutral, but profit-driven. Rather than let them spy around nearby, it would be better to approach them first and temporarily bring them within a controllable range.
"I'll go out for a moment." Chu Ming spoke to Venerable Lingfeng, then reined in his aura and slipped out of the valley's restriction alone, walking slowly toward the Chamber of Commerce's party.
Li Wenxuan spotted him quickly. A familiar smile immediately spread across his face as he came forward to greet him. "Fellow Daoist Chu, what a coincidence—we meet again. Judging by your complexion, you seem much better than before. Have you found a satisfactory place to rest?" As he spoke, his gaze discreetly swept toward the valley behind Chu Ming. Though the sword-intent restriction there was concealed, with his cultivation and experience, he could naturally sense that something was different.
"Captain Li." Chu Ming cupped his hands, his expression calm. "Let's not beat around the bush. My companions and I need to handle some important matters in this valley, and it may take several days.
During that time, I do not wish to be disturbed unnecessarily."
Li Wenxuan's smile did not change, but his gaze deepened somewhat. "Oh? And by 'disturbance,' Fellow Daoist Chu means...?"
"Any unauthorized probing or harassment within a hundred li of the valley." Chu Ming said lightly. With a flip of his hand, five more high-quality Order Crystals appeared, along with a