The decision to head north has been finalized. The list of followers accompanying Lord Yusu was quickly determined. Apart from Yufeng, Yuye, and He Cai, who stayed behind, all cultivators above the fifth level of Qi Refinement joined Lord Yusu on his journey north. Additionally, a team of 300 ordinary warriors accompanied them, making a total of 350 people.
Yukun and others felt the number was too small, but Lord Yusu explained that the journey to Fengcheng would be dangerous, and he didn't want to risk too many lives. The group accepted his decision.
Seven days later, after arranging everything, Lord Yusu led the team north. He emphasized the main focus wasn't Fengcheng, but rather communication with villages and cities along the way. They were to document terrain, resources, etc., expanding the map upon their return.
"Understood," the group replied.
They all traveled on horseback. Initially thinking they would head straight to Fengcheng, Simple Yunchuan realized they intended for a slower pace, exploring new sights after leaving the northern limits of the original Snake Village.
Yumeng mentioned the abandoned original Snake Village and heard from people in Iron Village that occasionally, some creatures appeared in the north, seemingly commanded by something. Yuyong speculated about these creatures becoming spirits.
Lord Yusu assured that if they encountered non-aggressive creatures, they would ignore them, but if attacked, they'd deal with them.
A small dark bird chirped, "You can let me eat them."
As the leader of Yucheng's magical beasts, the small dark bird commanded various low-level magical beasts, including the Sand Leopard King and others.
Heading north, the group encountered a large village, similar in size to Big Thistle Village. A scout eagle informed them of traps set by the village, likely affiliated with Fengcheng.
Yumeng, frustrated, wanted to confront them, but Yukun suggested dealing with it according to their leader's instructions.
Following orders, they neutralized the traps and captured the village's warriors. The village leader admitted allegiance to Fengcheng.
Lord Yusu inquired, "Why ambush us? Was it at Fengcheng's command?"
Village Leader: "Yes, but what does it matter? You offended Fengcheng, and we merely followed orders."
Lord Yusu mocked, "Are you Fengcheng's lapdog? Would you eat feces if they told you to?"
After resolving the situation, they continued on the journey, expecting more challenges.
Word spread to Bird Master about the failed ambush. Angry, he decided to escalate the interference, sending messages to various hidden forces along the way.
They reached a canyon, a shortcut to Fengcheng, but Simple Yunchuan warned of another village loyal to Fengcheng. Lord Yusu dispatched an eagle to scout.
Bird Master, frustrated by the failure, assured his followers that more trouble awaited Lord Yusu's group."
"Yumeng asked Simple Yunchuan, 'Lord Yunchuan, is this the only shortcut?'
Simple Yunchuan nodded, 'If I remember correctly, this is the only one. The mountains on both sides of the canyon have a wide view. If we take a detour, it will take at least an extra month.'
The people from Yucheng, each with their own abilities, couldn't possibly fear a village in the canyon and waste a month on detours. They didn't inquire further.
However, Lord Yusu found the canyon intriguing. They were currently below the canyon, looking up at the tall mountains on both sides. Ahead of them was a crack, the entrance to the canyon.
Lord Yusu said, 'I wonder what's above. I'll go take a look.'
Yusu went, and naturally, Luyan followed.
Flying on their swords, they discovered a vast plateau as they ascended the mountain. The ground was covered in lush green grass, gently undulating like a green ocean.
'This is a good place,' Lord Yusu remarked.
Luyan and he landed on the grassy ground, the grass feeling soft and comfortable underfoot."