Arc 3(3)

Arriving at the designated meeting point, they were met by several members of the rabbit clan, whose unease was thinly veiled beneath their attempts at cordiality. Feng Li keenly observed their underlying fear, understanding that it stemmed from long-standing misunderstandings between the snake clan and others. Misconceptions had shrouded the snake clan in a veil of mistrust, causing many to view them as ruthless and perilous.

Feng Li recognized the complexities of the situation. Despite his ascension to the throne, the snake clan remained isolated, as other clans were reluctant to engage with them. This isolation was partly due to the snake clan's intimidating demeanor, which naturally stemmed from their need to protect their citizens.

The middle-aged man who greeted Feng Li was the first to speak. "It is an honor to meet the esteemed ruler of the snake clan."

Feng Li regarded the man with a composed nod and replied, "Likewise. Thank you for coming here today. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter."

The man then introduced a young beast named Zhang Yang, who would be representing the rabbit clan during the discussions. Feng Li studied the boy for a moment before responding, "I am Feng Li, the current king of the snake clan. Let us begin our negotiations."

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In this unique world, two distinct categories of beings existed: the Beasts and the Sub-Beasts. Among these classifications, the Snake Beasts stood out as the epitome of strength and power. They possessed the extraordinary ability to transform into snakes of varying sizes, their serpentine tails aiding them in maintaining balance whether they walked upright on two legs or gracefully slithered on all fours. However, their inability to take to the skies meant that they preferred to remain close to the earth's surface.

In contrast, the Snake Sub-Beasts did not possess tails. Instead, they boasted a pair of large, expressive ears and small fangs. These unique characteristics allowed them to hear distant sounds with remarkable precision and communicate silently among themselves through subtle body language. These abilities made them exceptional scouts and spies, often serving as the eyes and ears of the snake clan.

Additionally, snake beast had the incredible ability to alter their size to suit the demands of the situation. When faced with danger, they could grow to astonishing proportions, easily overpowering their adversaries. Moreover, they possessed venom, which, when injected into a target, induced paralysis. However, this venom could only be released in the heat of battle, underscoring the snakes' formidable prowess in combat.

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After several hours of productive discussions, Feng Li and the representatives from the Rabbit clan reached a mutually satisfactory agreement. Both parties left the meeting with smiles, content with the outcome they had achieved.

As they prepared to head back to their respective territories, the same middle-aged man who had initially greeted Feng Li approached him with a polite request. "Majesty, would you kindly join me for a cup of tea?" he asked.

Feng Li regarded the man's face, finding no malice or ill intentions in his demeanor. Considering that his mission was successfully completed, Feng Li saw no harm in accepting the invitation. Thus, he agreed to accompany the man for tea.

Following the man's lead, Feng Li was guided to a nearby village. Along the winding streets, the villagers quickly retreated upon spotting them, their expressions betraying a mixture of fear and apprehension. Feng Li couldn't help but empathize with their unease.

"What are your thoughts on our kingdom?" the middle-aged man inquired suddenly, disrupting Feng Li's contemplation.

Coming to a halt, Feng Li turned to face his companion. "It's beautiful," he replied genuinely. "I've never seen such abundant greenery before."

"Yes, we are indeed proud of our land," the middle-aged man concurred, a warm smile gracing his features. "But it saddens me that we lack the resources we need."

"We've been facing quite a struggle to sustain ourselves for some time now," he added with a tinge of sadness in his voice.

Feng Li furrowed his brows slightly, understanding the man's predicament. While the snake clan enjoyed an abundance of resources, he couldn't dismiss the difficulties faced by the Rabbit clan.

The middle-aged man continued, "I am Zhang Yue, the current ruler of the Rabbit clan. My son, Zhang Yang, was the one who engaged in the contract discussion with you."

Feng Li patiently awaited the man's request, sensing its gravity in his demeanor.

Then, Zhang Yue earnestly spoke up, "Majesty, I have a favor to ask of you."

Feng Li met his gaze with curiosity, nodding to encourage him to proceed.

"I would like to request something," Zhang Yue hesitated briefly. "Would you consider marrying a sub-beast from our clan?"

Feng Li was taken aback by the unexpected request. He comprehended the reasons behind it - a union between their clans would significantly benefit the Rabbit clan by expanding their resources through the Snake clan's hunting grounds.

"I'm deeply honored by your proposal," Feng Li replied graciously. "However, I am not inclined towards marriage at this moment."

"Oh, I see," the middle-aged man sighed with a touch of disappointment. "Well, I hope you might reconsider. Our kingdom is truly struggling, and your assistance would mean a great deal to us."

"I understand," Feng Li replied empathetically. "Please rest assured, we will do our utmost to support you."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," the middle-aged man expressed his gratitude with a warm smile.

Feng Li nodded in acknowledgment.

The middle-aged man then suggested, "Your Majesty, why don't you and your companions stay for a day? You can explore the beauty of our kingdom."

Feng Li pondered for a moment and then agreed, "Very well, we shall stay here for a night."

The middle-aged man's expression brightened with approval.

Feng Li and his companions were led to a simple cave for their lodging. Inside, the accommodations were basic, consisting of a soft animal skin spread on the floor and a few clay pots, one containing clean drinking water and the other left empty. However, the animal skin appeared clean and comfortable enough, and Feng Li had no complaints. Given the prehistoric nature of this world, they were adapting to the most primitive of conditions.

Feng Li's companions, accustomed to such simple lodgings, showed no signs of complaint. Instead, they engaged in lively conversations about the picturesque surroundings. Feng Li listened to their chatter with one ear, his mind preoccupied with unraveling the mystery of his second task.

The novel provided no clues about the true cause of the original owner's descent into madness, particularly regarding his brother's fatal injuries. Furthermore, it depicted the original owner as paranoid, suspicious of everyone, which sharply contrasted with Feng Li's memories. The original owner had been a compassionate and gentle soul.

Frustration welled up within Feng Li as he wrestled with these inconsistencies. He cast aside his thoughts for the moment and focused on his companions' discussion.

Meanwhile, not far from Feng Li and his companions, a middle-aged man and a sub-beast were engaged in a conversation. It was Zhang Yue and his spouse.

"Husband, I don't want Yu Xin to marry that person. Even if you claim Yu Xin is our middle child, you know it's not true," Yu Min expressed his concerns earnestly.

Zhang Yue sighed, "Wife, I..."

Before he could continue, Yu Min interrupted, "I understand that Zhang Xi doesn't like Yu Xin, but that doesn't mean you should marry him off to those people. He's the son of my best friend, and he's so quiet, never asking for anything. I don't want any harm to come to him."

However, before they could delve further into their conversation, the nearby bushes rustled slightly.

Zhang Yue's protective instincts kicked in as he swiftly shielded Yu Min, positioning himself defensively in front of him. He raised his voice, a clear warning in his tone, as he called out to the unseen presence hidden behind the rustling bushes.

"Who is there?! Come out! Otherwise, you'll regret it!"

Intrigued and cautious, they both braced themselves for whatever might emerge from the underbrush, uncertain of who or what could be lurking in the shadows.