Although this hired soldier captain is quite knowledgeable, at this moment he has no idea what Brand is after. Could it be that he just wants to become a prince controlling his own territory? In his view, this seems rather meaningless, especially after becoming acquainted with the world of travel mages. Mortals are mortals, after all, and the ultimate goal of a travel mage is to explore the ultimate truth of this world and seek the path to higher existence.

Compared to that, does anything from the mortal world still hold allure? Hu Que couldn't help but stroke his scruffy chin, feeling puzzled by Brand's intentions.

But he probably didn't realize that Brand's thoughts at this moment were even more 'easy to understand' than he imagined, as he was drooling over a pile of potentially nonexistent spoils of war. The allure of a boss to players is eternal, especially when you know you have the chance to defeat it and get better equipment. But just as the young man was deeply engrossed in his fantasy, he suddenly felt someone pat him on the back.

This shock was truly extraordinary. Brand was scared out of his wits and turned around, seeing a shimmering golden helmet and a pair of silver-grey eyes beneath it.

That Elf Commander.

Brand recognized the other party immediately and couldn't help but curse inwardly, thinking, "Big brother, can't you walk without making a sound?" Only then did he pat his chest and let out a breath, asking, "What's wrong?" But actually, the Elf Commander felt a bit wronged. Although the Phoenix Guard is reputed to be the strongest heavy infantry on the continent — of course, this was seven centuries ago. Their strength lies in combat skills and equipment, not stealth techniques. The reason Brand was startled was purely because he was too distracted earlier.

The Elf Commander felt not a bit of guilt for scaring the leader of this group. In fact, if this elf took off his helmet, he would probably be so handsome that Brand would die of jealousy, but there wasn't a hint of expression on his face at this moment. He simply made a cold gesture and whispered, "A group of people is running towards us up ahead."

"Running away?" Brand was stunned for a moment and then noticed the choice of words the other used. He wondered who would be fleeing towards this direction at this time. In theory, Bujia and his team should be in the south. The strategy was clear on this point, and Brand was firmly convinced because since he arrived in this world, history had never deviated one bit.

The Elf Commander glanced at him with his silver-grey eyes, seeming somewhat displeased with his question, but still nodded.

Brand knew that this wooden-faced guy wouldn't be joking with him—he had always suspected whether these guys even knew the meaning of the word "joke." But that wasn't important; he immediately raised his hand to signal the others to stop. Brand had long established his prestige among this group (except the Silver Elf). As soon as he made the gesture, the mercenaries immediately halted.

The previously drowsy Antitina and Romantic instantly jolted awake. Miss Merchant looked up curiously and asked, "What's wrong, Brand?"

Brand made a silencing gesture. Sure enough, he quickly heard the rustling sound of footsteps crossing the underbrush. The footsteps were chaotic, seemingly fleeing in panic, clearly a group running for their lives. Brand glanced at the Elf beside him, feeling a bit impressed inside, thinking to himself, "As expected of an advanced NPC, this level of vigilance is far beyond average players."

He had seen many players going on adventures like they were on a spring outing, almost unbearable to watch. Of course, individual player strength could sometimes reverse the result even in a surprise attack, which is a different matter altogether.

As he listened more intently, he indeed caught the sound of another source further away—the pursuers, mounted.

Brand's expression immediately turned serious. In this area, only two forces would utilize mounts: one is the Lizardmen with their traditional Dragon Cavalry, and the other is the Black Fire Sect believers and their demons. Warhorses are very difficult to maneuver through forests, especially in hilly forested areas like this one. He had never seen anyone so reckless as to gallop recklessly through the dense forests of this hilly region.

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