At the edge of the Eastern Pole Forest, the Ice Merchant Guild caravan led by Ye Lingyun had just set foot on the vast land. Their starship slowly landed nearby, stirring up a cloud of dust. The fresh scent of grass and trees filled the forest air, and sunlight spilled through gaps in the treetops onto the caravan members' faces.
However, the tranquility was soon shattered by the urgent pounding of hooves. Ye Lingyun's gaze sharpened, and his senses heightened to their utmost in an instant, catching the movement in the distance.
"On guard!" Ye Lingyun's voice rang through the caravan with an air of unquestionable authority.
The caravan guards sprang into action. A trace of tension lingered in their eyes, but resolve shone brighter. They knew Ye Lingyun was their protector; as long as he was there, they had nothing to fear.
The hoofbeats drew closer, rumbling like thunder, and a band of green-robed bandits charged out of the forest like ravenous wolves. Greed and cruelty gleamed in their eyes, while their weapons reflected a cold light beneath the sun, sending chills down the spine.
"The Greenfield Bandits!" the caravan's guard captain cursed under his breath. His expression darkened, and he gripped his weapon tightly, ready for the coming battle.
Ye Lingyun stood quietly at the very front of the caravan, his gaze cold and deep, as though he could see straight into the bandits' souls. He leaned forward slightly, radiating a powerful aura that none dared take lightly.
"Leave your goods, and we'll spare your lives!" the lead bandit shouted, his voice tinged with arrogance and confidence. He brandished his broadsword, its blade tracing a streak of cold light through the air.
A cold smile curled Ye Lingyun's lips. His voice was calm but firm. "Greenfield Bandits, you've