Stepping into the Trap

What are you doing here?

"I... I didn't say anything. I've been avoiding those people the whole time."

"Trust me, I will never betray you."

The others sneered, clearly not believing him.

Su Zhan had actually anticipated this, and begged for mercy before they could make a move.

"No, don't do it, I can actually help you."

Upon hearing this, the group of people immediately stopped.

Seemingly surprised, Su Zhan actually said that.

Su Zhan quickly continued speaking.

"I can help you deal with Su Zhan."

"I know now. The person you're after is him, and his people are looking for me. If I deliberately let him find me and then say I can take him to the person who's after him, he'll fall for it."

"If you had been prepared in advance, you could have easily led Su Zhan into the trap himself."

"But you have to promise me that since I've helped you out with Su Zhan, you can't turn against me. After all, we're in the same boat now."

Upon hearing this, the group looked at each other and all agreed that it was a good idea.

They weren't in a hurry to attack Gu Feng, whom they thought was standing in front of them.

However, they cannot make the decision on their own; they must go back and consult the Palace Lord.

Normally, they wouldn't listen to their target's opinion, but this time was different. Su Zhan hadn't been eliminated yet, their mission wasn't completed, and the Palace Lord wouldn't get what he wanted.

If they can help the Palace Lord achieve his wish, they will have accomplished something.

Moreover, Gu Feng's words do make a lot of sense; if used properly, Gu Feng can indeed help them gain merit.

The leader spoke.

"Gu Feng, don't try anything funny. Just come with us to see the Palace Lord."

Whether you live or die depends on the Palace Lord's decision.

Upon hearing this, Su Zhan naturally feigned relief.

He nodded quickly and spoke.

"Don't worry, I won't try anything funny. I just want to live."

"I will obediently follow you back and plead with the Palace Lord on your behalf."

Seeing that he was quite honest, the group was fairly satisfied.

The leader looked at Hun Tianlong, a murderous intent glint in his eyes.

Who is this person? I haven't seen him before.

Clearly, he didn't want to take on any additional risk.

Su Zhan knew they would ask, so he quickly explained.

"He helps me Artifact Refining. Last time he went out to deliver a treasure to my employer."

So you didn't see him last time.

"He is very talented, and hard to find. Please help me take him under my wing."

"If the Palace Lord keeps me in the Miao Miao Palace afterward, I'll have someone to help me Artifact Refining."

The group thought it made a lot of sense.

If Gu Feng truly helped them eliminate Su Zhan, then he would have performed a meritorious service.

Since he is skilled in Artifact Refining, the Palace Lord might indeed keep him.

It would also be beneficial for them, so bringing one more person wouldn't be a bad idea.

"Alright, come back to the Miao Miao Palace with us."

The leader spoke up.

Su Zhan nodded immediately, looking eager to hear it.

He felt somewhat helpless. He hadn't wanted to bring Hun Tianlong, but Hun Tianlong was worried about him and insisted. So, he had no choice but to bring Hun Tianlong and have him act as his helper.

Fortunately, these people didn't press him for details, otherwise he would have needed to fabricate even more lies and would have easily aroused suspicion.

Everything is going well so far; it's a very good start.

Su Zhan was taken to a multi-story ship, where he and Hun Tianlong were trapped in a room in the farthest corner until they entered the territory of the Miao Miao Palace, at which point he was allowed to leave.