Chapter 0041: Formulating a Strategy for the Small Base

"I also disagree!" Li Sheng, who had been reclining on the sofa, spoke in a low, somber voice.

Li Sheng was different from Fatty. He had a cold exterior but a warm heart. He was a man of few words, but once he made a decision, he was unwavering. Since the day he decided, deep in his heart, to follow Di Ping, Di Ping's well-being had become his highest priority. It could be said that Di Ping's interests were now his own. Therefore, his disagreement was entirely understandable.

Li Sheng's character resembled that of the knights from ancient Western times—steadfast in loyalty and commitment. He could live and die for the one he served.

Such people were rare in today's world, and they could even be considered anomalies. In this century, where money reigns supreme, and self-interest drives actions, the ancient ideals of loyalty and self-sacrifice for a cause are often dismissed as foolish. Thus, someone like Li Sheng, who upheld such values, was indeed a rare breed.

People like him rarely had many friends, as he never easily opened up. However, once he committed, he would go to any lengths, even risking life and death, to fulfill that commitment.

"I also do not agree!"

Lao Luo, who had been silent until now, finally voiced his opinion. Lao Luo adhered to the principle of equivalent exchange; he was willing to help others as long as it did not jeopardize his own interests. However, such a dangerous rescue mission clearly did not align with his survival logic, and as expected, he was unwilling to participate. Not everyone could act selflessly, and that was perfectly reasonable.

"We also feel that it is too dangerous!"

Liu Bingyu's soft voice added. Di Ping could tell from the exchange of glances among the three women that their position represented the collective sentiment of all three. It was clear that nearly everyone opposed the rescue plan, and it seemed likely that the idea would be abandoned.

In truth, Di Ping also had reservations. He was not an altruistic sage. If he were capable of saving others without risk to himself, he would not hesitate. However, while his strength was not insignificant, who knew how many more mutated creatures like the crocodile at Imperial Lake existed?

Moreover, his system was still in its infancy. Everything was just beginning, and if something were to happen to him, how would the people depending on him fare? Not only did he have this group to protect, but his parents were also counting on him for rescue. He could not afford to risk his life recklessly.

"Beep—System task activated. Task: Rescue. Complete the task successfully and receive 500 crystal coins and a Wu Jin battle knife. Failure will result in a deduction of 100 crystal coins. Do you wish to accept the task?"

Just as he was about to voice his decision to forgo the rescue, a notification from the system interrupted his thoughts. A task had appeared, compelling him to reconsider his stance.

For Di Ping, although he had unlocked some latent potential and completed his career inheritance, he was, at his core, still just a university graduate of two years. Though he had achieved some success and had matured quickly, he was still an ordinary person who grew up in a peaceful era. Facing the unknown dangers of the world, it was natural for him to feel apprehensive.

Despite having the system, which had sparked some vague aspirations of global responsibility, he knew that his current abilities were far from enough to save the world. At this moment, simply saving himself would be an achievement. However, things had changed now. With the task from the system, the reward of 500 crystal coins was tempting. He had worked tirelessly for days to collect only about twenty coins. More importantly, the battle knife was a highly valuable asset. His current weapon, the Han sword, no longer felt adequate. This task seemed like a golden opportunity.

Although there was danger, the promise of rewards changed everything.

As Marx once said, "If there is a 50% profit, capital will take the risk; for a 100% profit, capital will trample on all laws." Di Ping now felt like a capitalist. For crystal coins, he was willing to take the risk.

He was in desperate need of money. The 500 crystal coins sounded incredibly tempting, and the Wu Jin battle knife was an excellent weapon. He had long felt his Han sword was insufficient. It was as if a pillow was delivered just when he was in need of sleep.

Despite the risks, the rewards made the danger worth considering.

"Enough with the debate!"

Di Ping made his decision, and his voice rang out, silencing the hushed arguments around him. "I understand that you are all concerned about my safety," he continued, his expression darkening for a moment as he became reflective. "But there are over a thousand lives at stake... It wouldn't sit well with me to not do anything."

"Di Ge..."

Everyone gasped, looking at him in disbelief, as if they could not comprehend why he had made such a decision. Surely, this was a suicide mission?

"Don't be so hasty!"

Di Ping raised his hand to stop them from reacting prematurely, his eyes scanning the group. He noticed the gleam of hope in Cheng Chao and Ye Lu's eyes, especially Cheng Chao, whose eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and hope. Lao Luo appeared surprised, while Li Sheng maintained his calm demeanor, as if supporting any decision Di Ping made. Yu Shujie's expression was a complex mixture of worry, concern, and a hint of gratitude. Even Fatty, who had been quietly sitting, now looked at Di Ping with astonishment and hope, as if moved by his determination. Di Ping absorbed their reactions silently.

"I won't act recklessly. Don't worry," he reassured them. "I just want to check it out. If I can save them, I will. If not, there's nothing I can do."

"But it's so far. What if something happens?" Yu Shujie asked anxiously, her eyes filled with concern as she looked at Di Ping.

Di Ping smiled slightly. "Don't worry. I'm not that foolish. If things go south, I can still escape."

"I'll go with you!"

Cheng Chao suddenly stood up, his gaze resolute, as if willing to face death alongside Di Ping.

"I'm going too!"

"I'll go as well!"

Fatty also jumped up in agreement. Lao Luo immediately followed suit. Only Li Sheng remained silent, his eyes reflecting a deep, quiet sorrow.

"Enough! This isn't a banquet where we all go together!" Di Ping chuckled bitterly, waving his hand. "I'll go alone. Right now, your abilities won't help. I'm not trying to discourage you, but you won't be of much use."

The group, knowing Di Ping spoke the truth, sighed in resignation and sat back down. Liu Bingyu and the others understood the men's limitations, and they, too, calmed themselves, accepting the situation without further argument.