Chapter 32: Delivery Complete, Goal Achieved

Lin Fan regarded the six bandits blocking the pass, their crude weapons held ready, their eyes gleaming with avarice. The leader, a burly fifth layer cultivator, radiated a confidence born of preying on weaker travelers. The others, mostly fourth layer, positioned themselves clumsily, attempting an encirclement. Compared to the coordinated pack tactics of the Shadowfang Wolves, the spectral horror of the Wraith, or the environmental dangers of the Frozen Serpent Ridge, this felt… amateurish.

"Last chance, disciple!" the bandit leader growled, hefting his notched axe. "The box, or your life!"

Lin Fan didn't even bother drawing his sword yet. Annoyances like these were simply obstacles delaying his mission. Speed was key.

He activated enhanced Wind Step.

Before the bandits could fully register his movement, he wasn't there anymore. He reappeared directly beside the two crossbow-wielding bandits at the rear of their formation. Two swift chops with the side of his hand, empowered by his Qi, struck their necks. They collapsed without a sound, their crossbows clattering uselessly on the rocky ground.

The remaining four bandits whirled around in shock and confusion. "Where'd he go?!"

Lin Fan was already moving again, a phantom weaving between them. He delivered precise palm strikes to the temples or chests of the two remaining fourth layer bandits. Their eyes rolled back as they crumpled, either dead or deeply unconscious – Lin Fan didn't care which.

Only the fifth layer leader remained, his face a mask of disbelief and sudden fear. He swung his heavy axe in a wild, panicked arc. Lin Fan flowed around the clumsy attack with ease, appearing directly in front of the bandit leader.

This time, the Flowing Shadow Sword appeared in his hand, almost seeming to materialize from the air. Before the leader could react or mount a defense, the blade darted forward, piercing cleanly through his throat. The leader gurgled, dropping his axe as he clawed futilely at his neck before collapsing.

The entire confrontation lasted less than five seconds. Six bandits, neutralized with contemptuous ease.

DING! [Detected Host dispatching multiple hostile targets with overwhelming speed and efficiency.] [Triggered emotions (Bandits - Brief): Shock (+10 Points), Fear (+15 Points), Disbelief (+10 Points)] [System Points earned: 35] [Current System Points: 4165 + 35 = 4200]

A minuscule point gain, reflecting the low threat level and brief reactions. Lin Fan barely registered it. He gave the bodies a cursory glance – their mismatched leather armor and rusty weapons held nothing of value. No need to waste time looting such dregs. He kicked aside a section of the crude barricade, clearing the path, and continued on his way, Wind Step carrying him swiftly away from the scene. The Blackwind Forest quickly swallowed the clearing behind him.

The remaining hour of the journey passed without incident. The fierce wind persisted, but no more beasts or bandits dared accost him. Gradually, the density of the forest began to change, the trees taking on a healthier, greener appearance despite the wind. He sensed a different kind of ambient energy – gentler, richer in life force compared to the wild elemental energy deeper in the forest.

Soon, through a break in the trees, he saw it – the Greenleaf Pavilion Outpost. It was nestled in a small, wind-sheltered valley, looking distinctly different from Azure Cloud Sect structures. The buildings were constructed from living, shaped wood, seamlessly integrated with large, ancient trees. Green banners bearing a leaf motif fluttered from watchtowers. Disciples garbed in green robes moved about, tending to what looked like outdoor herb gardens, seemingly cultivators specializing in wood or plant-based arts. The outpost felt calmer, more focused on growth and healing than the martial austerity of Azure Cloud.

Lin Fan approached the main gate. Two Greenleaf Pavilion disciples, both appearing to be around the fourth layer of Qi Refinement, stood guard. They watched him approach, noting his Azure Cloud Sect robes, their expressions neutral but alert.

"Azure Cloud Sect disciple, Lin Fan," he announced, presenting his disciple token. "I bear an urgent delivery, package GLP-774, for the outpost master."

One of the guards nodded, recognizing the context, likely aware of the expected delivery. "Welcome, Disciple Lin Fan. Please follow me. Master Elara has been expecting these supplies."

Lin Fan followed the guard through the outpost, noting the pervasive scent of medicinal herbs and the tranquil, life-filled energy. They arrived at a central building woven around the base of a massive, ancient tree. Inside, a kindly-looking middle-aged woman with vibrant green energy subtly flowing around her – clearly the outpost master and likely a Foundation Establishment cultivator – looked up from a scroll.

"Master Elara, Disciple Lin Fan from Azure Cloud Sect has arrived with the delivery," the guard announced respectfully.

Master Elara smiled warmly. "Ah, excellent! You made remarkable time, Disciple Lin Fan. The Blackwind Forest is not easily traversed. Please, the package?"

Lin Fan retrieved the sealed box from his storage ring and presented it. Master Elara took it, her eyes scanning the intact seals. She produced a small, leaf-shaped token and pressed it against the seal – it flared with green light, confirming authenticity and lack of tampering.

"Perfect condition, and well within the deadline," she confirmed, relief evident in her voice. "These supplies are vital. Thank you for undertaking this perilous journey." She raised a communication talisman, spoke briefly into it ("Azure Cloud Contribution Hall, this is Master Elara of Greenleaf Pavilion Outpost. Confirming receipt of package GLP-774, delivered intact by Disciple Lin Fan. Task complete."), and nodded as it glowed with confirmation.

Almost immediately, Lin Fan felt the update on his own disciple token.

[Task: Urgent Delivery to Greenleaf Pavilion Outpost - Status: Completed (Confirmed)] [Reward Awarded: 250 Contribution Points] [Current Contribution Points: 780 + 250 = 1030 CP]

He had done it. 1030 Contribution Points. His initial goal was surpassed.

"We would offer you rest and refreshment, Disciple Lin Fan," Master Elara said kindly.

"Thank you, Master Elara, but I must return to my sect promptly," Lin Fan replied politely, bowing slightly. He had achieved his objective here.

Master Elara nodded in understanding. "Safe travels, then. May the winds be favorable."

Lin Fan bowed again and turned to leave, escorted back to the gate by the guard. He stepped out of the tranquil green outpost back into the edge of the windy forest, feeling a sense of accomplishment. He had accumulated over 1000 CP in just a few short, incredibly busy days, tackling challenges ranging from wolf packs and spectral wraiths to icy peaks and forest bandits.

His gaze turned back towards the direction of the Azure Cloud Sect. Now, with 1030 Contribution Points burning a hole in his metaphorical pocket, it was time to see what doors this hard-earned sect currency could truly open.