Courtyard House: Report enemy agents at the start, and you'll take off immediately.

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Zhao De quickly stepped in front of the crowd, calmly surveying the surroundings: "Don't panic, everyone. Stay calm. My team and I will protect you. Who are you? Why are you visiting so late at night?" His words were like a stabilizing force, gradually calming the villagers' emotions.

Just then, a deep and majestic voice rang out from the darkness: "Zhao De, your name has resounded throughout the wasteland. I am Black Hawk, the leader of the Storm Tribe. I have come for the Heart of Water. Legend has it that it can awaken ancient power and change the fate of this land. Hand over the Heart of Water, and I can guarantee the safety of your village."

Upon hearing this, Zhao De's eyes hardened even more: "The Heart of Water is the hope we earned with our blood and sweat; we must not easily hand it over to outsiders. Black Hawk Leader, if you truly want to help this land, why not choose peaceful coexistence and jointly utilize this power?"

The villagers watching whispered amongst themselves, surprised and nervous by the sudden threat. A young farmer murmured to the person next to him, "This Black Hawk leader is really bold, daring to come directly for the Heart of the Water Source." Another whispered back, "How will Zhao De handle this? He always manages to surprise us."

Black Hawk sneered, "Peaceful coexistence? In this dog-eat-dog world, strength is everything. However, since you put it that way, I can give you a chance—within three days, if you can prove that the Heart of Water can indeed bring about revival, I will withdraw my troops and form an alliance with you. Otherwise…"

Zhao De met Black Hawk's gaze without flinching: "Deal. But remember, our agreement isn't just about the Heart of Water, it's about trust and respect. Let the facts speak for themselves in three days."

Black Hawk nodded in tacit agreement, then his figure gradually disappeared into the night, leaving only the blue arrow as a testament to the oath.

The villagers gathered around the campfire again, their hearts filled with trepidation, but mostly with trust and expectation for Zhao De. A child tugged at Zhao De's sleeve, looked up, and asked with curiosity and admiration in his eyes, "Uncle Zhao De, can you really prove everything in three days?"

Zhao De knelt down, his smile warm yet firm: "Children, each of us is key to changing our destiny. Not just me, but all of you too. With our combined efforts, nothing is impossible. Now, let's prepare for these three days together."

Chapter 370 The Healing Power of the Heart of Water

Chapter 370 The Healing Power of the Heart of Water

The next morning, as the sun rose, the atmosphere in the village was quite different from usual. Zhao De stood at the village entrance, gazing into the distance, already having made his plans. At his call, the villagers quickly organized themselves, with clear divisions of labor: some were responsible for strengthening defenses, while others assisted Zhao De in preparing the plan to demonstrate the power of the Heart of Water.

An elderly man with a full head of white hair walked slowly over, leaning on a cane, his eyes gleaming with wisdom: "Zhao De, what secrets does this Heart of the Water Source hold that make the Black Eagle leader so covetous?"

Zhao De smiled and said, "Old man, the Heart of the Water Source is said to contain the power of an ancient civilization, capable of guiding underground water veins, and may even have healing power. Today we will prove to everyone that it not only belongs to us, but can also be used by us."

In the afternoon, Zhao De led several young men deep into the secret cave behind the village, where the heart of the water source was located. Inside the cave, a pool of azure water flowed quietly, emitting a faint glow—this was the heart of the water source. Zhao De carefully scooped up a handful of water, closed his eyes, and sensed the energy fluctuations within it, gradually forming an idea in his mind.

“We have two things to do,” Zhao De said to the people around him. “First, we need to improve the village’s irrigation system so that the crops can benefit; second, we need to prepare a healing ceremony to demonstrate the healing power of the Heart of Water. Time is of the essence, and we must race against time.”

The news spread quickly throughout the village, and even people from neighboring villages came to witness the miracle. Although the villagers were extremely busy, their faces were filled with unprecedented hope and enthusiasm.

By dusk on the third day, everything was ready. The villagers gathered around a newly established irrigated field, where the once parched soil had become fertile overnight, and tender green seedlings sprouted, full of life. A gasp of amazement erupted from the crowd. One woman excitedly said to her sister beside her, "Look, this is the miracle Zhao De spoke of! Our lives really can be changed because of this!"

Immediately following, a special healing ritual began. Zhao De held a holy cup filled with water from the Heart of the Water Spring and softly chanted an ancient incantation. The first to receive treatment was an old hunter from the village who had been ill for a long time. As the clear spring water gently caressed his wounds, a miracle occurred—the old man's face, which had been contorted in pain, gradually relaxed, and the wounds healed at a speed visible to the naked eye.

"This is a miracle!" Exclamations of astonishment rippled through the crowd. One outsider said incredulously to his friend, "I always thought these were just legends; I never imagined such incredible power truly existed in this world!"

As night fell, Zhao De stood on the high platform in the center of the village, facing the excited villagers and the faintly visible Storm Tribe camp in the distance. He announced to everyone, "We did it! The power of the Heart of Water belongs to everyone who has a kind heart and strives to live a good life. Black Hawk Chief, do you see it? Peace and shared prosperity are the true future of this land."

At that moment, a familiar and authoritative voice came from the night sky: "Zhao De, you have shown me a different possibility. You have won the three-day agreement. Tomorrow at noon, I will come in person to sign the peace agreement."

Amidst thunderous applause from the villagers, Zhao De smiled slightly and gazed at the brilliant starry sky: "This is just the beginning. In the future, we will work together to create even more miracles."

Chapter 371 The Cave

Chapter 371 The Cave.

The following morning, sunlight pierced through the thin mist, illuminating the hopeful village. The villagers were busy early, preparing to welcome the Black Hawk tribe chief. In the streets and alleys, everyone's face was filled with a complex mix of anticipation and unease. Children chased and played, occasionally stopping to look curiously towards the village entrance, whispering about the important figure who was about to arrive.

In a corner of the village, several elders sat together, discussing the changes that were about to take place. "The young man from the Zhao family is truly remarkable," an elder with white hair and beard exclaimed. "He not only rescued our village from its predicament, but even the historically warlike Black Eagle tribe has to bow down. Truly, the younger generation surpasses the older, and a new generation replaces the old."

On the other side, several young people were dreaming about life after peace. "Then we can go to the Black Hawk Tribe's territory to trade goods. I heard their ironware is famous for being sturdy and durable," one young man said, his eyes gleaming. "And their brewing techniques, hehe, that'll be quite unique."

At midday, with the sun high in the sky and dust billowing at the village entrance, a procession slowly came into view. Leading the group was a man clad in a black feathered battle robe, riding a magnificent black horse; he was the chieftain of the Black Eagle tribe. Behind him followed several tribal warriors, each burly and solemn in expression.

The villagers' conversations gradually subsided until silence fell, and all eyes were fixed on the man who was about to decide their fate. Zhao De stepped forward, and the two stood face to face under the watchful eyes of the crowd.

“Zhao De, you have proven your strength and shown me the miracle of the Heart of Water.” The Black Hawk leader’s voice was steady and powerful. “But I still need to see the Heart of Water with my own eyes to confirm whether it has the power to change everything, as you say.”

Zhao De smiled slightly, turned around and led the Black Hawk leader towards the cave in the back mountain. Along the way, villagers watched this scene with awe and whispered among themselves.

"Look, that's the powerful reinforcement Zhao De brought back!"

"I really want to know what the Heart of the Water looks like that could move even the Black Hawk leader."

Upon entering the cave and facing the mysterious spring, the Black Hawk leader remained silent for a long time before finally speaking: "This water is indeed extraordinary, Zhao De. You and your village deserve respect. But peace is hard to come by. May our agreement today leave peace for future generations."

The two returned to the village and stood on the central platform. The Black Hawk leader faced the crowd, his voice resounding throughout the land: "Today, I, Black Hawk, pledge to be allies with Zhao De's village, to share the blessings of the Heart of Water, and to jointly safeguard the peace and prosperity of this land."

The villagers erupted in thunderous cheers, a mixture of joy and excitement. Zhao De shook hands with the Black Eagle chieftain, and at that moment, the barriers between the two tribes seemed to vanish with the wind.

Just as the villagers were immersed in joy, a sudden figure broke the tranquility. A ragged traveler stumbled into the village, his face covered in dust, but his eyes gleamed with an unusual light. The villagers turned to look, whispering among themselves.

"Where did this person come from? He doesn't look like he's from around here."

"Could they be spies sent by another tribe?"

The traveler looked up at Zhao De and the Black Hawk leader on the high platform, a bitter smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "I apologize for interrupting your celebration, but the message I bring is of paramount importance."

Chapter 372 Blue Moon Valley

Chapter 372 Blue Moon Valley

Zhao De frowned slightly and gestured for the traveler to come forward. His intuition told him that this person might possess some crucial information. The traveler slowly stepped forward under the gaze of the crowd, still panting, and said, "I am a messenger from the distant Blue Moon Valley, where an unprecedented disaster is raging—water sources have dried up, the land is barren, and people are struggling in despair."

A collective sigh arose from the crowd; for a tribe that relied on the bounty of nature, this was undoubtedly a catastrophe.

"But why did they find us?" Zhao De asked, his tone a mixture of curiosity and wariness.

“Because of the legend…” the traveler swallowed hard and continued, “A prophet in Blue Moon Valley once foretold that when a corner of the world suffers injustice and hardship, a hero will carry the Heart of Water and lead the tribes to unite and overcome the difficulties together.”

Zhao De and the Black Hawk leader exchanged a thoughtful glance. Clearly, this prophecy had involuntarily connected them to the current situation and the miracle of the Heart of Water.

"If we stand idly by, we might be the next ones to suffer," an old man whispered in the crowd. His voice was soft, but it was like a pebble thrown into a calm lake, creating ripples.

“But our own strength is also limited. How can we help Blue Moon Valley, which is so far away?” another person questioned, his words full of realistic considerations.

Just as the villagers were discussing animatedly, the Black Hawk leader slowly raised his hand, signaling everyone to be quiet. "Zhao De, we have witnessed the power of the Heart of Water. Do you think it can help the people of Blue Moon Valley?"

Zhao De pondered for a moment, his gaze resolute. "If the Heart of Water is truly as miraculous as the legends say, then helping Blue Moon Valley is our inescapable responsibility. But this matter is of utmost importance; we need more wisdom and strength."

"Then what are we waiting for?" Hope ignited in the traveler's eyes. "The people of Blue Moon Valley are eagerly awaiting the light of salvation."

Just then, a young voice rang out from the back of the crowd: "We cannot rely solely on the Heart of Water. Every tribe has its own strengths. If we join forces, we can overcome any difficulty!"

Zhao De turned his head and saw a young hunter whose eyes gleamed with courage and determination. Hearing this, the villagers nodded in agreement, and the atmosphere instantly became lively and full of fighting spirit.

“You’re right.” Zhao De nodded approvingly, then turned to face the crowd. “Our journey is not just about finding the heart of water, but also about uniting the strength of every corner to jointly withstand the storms of the future.”

"Unity is strength, I love hearing that!" A burly blacksmith pushed his way to the front of the crowd, his rough voice carrying an undeniable firmness, "My hammer is always ready to fight for justice!"

“I am also willing to contribute my medical skills to treat those who are suffering,” a gentle female doctor said softly, and her proposal won the support of many other women.

“Look, this is our tribe. Everyone has their own value.” Zhao De looked around, a sense of pride rising in his heart. “But to reach Blue Moon Valley, we need to cross unknown and dangerous areas. This is not only a rescue mission, but also an adventure.”

"Exploring the unknown is what makes a man romantic!" a young man with a childlike face but sly eyes said with a smile, which drew laughter from those around him.

Chapter 373 Sense of Mission

Chapter 373 Sense of Mission

"Don't forget, beyond the romance, there are even more hardships and challenges," the Black Hawk leader solemnly reminded them. "We must be fully prepared."

The discussion continued until nightfall, and a plan gradually took shape. Zhao De and the Black Hawk chieftain decided to select an elite team, carrying the tribe's wisdom and courage, to embark on the journey to Blue Moon Valley. The news quickly spread throughout the tribe, and the people prepared with a mixture of anticipation and anxiety.

The next morning, as the first rays of sunlight pierced through the thin mist and shone on the departing procession, men, women, and children from the entire tribe gathered at the village entrance to see them off.

"You must come back safely!" The old man urged in a trembling voice, his eyes filled with tears.

"Don't worry, ma'am, we'll bring hope back!" the young man in the group replied optimistically, waving goodbye.

Just as the group was about to set off, a mysterious old man appeared quietly. He handed Zhao De an old map and whispered, "This map records the secret path to Blue Moon Valley, but the road is fraught with danger, so please be careful."

Zhao De respectfully accepted the gift, his heart filled with inexplicable gratitude and a sense of mission. "We will remember your kindness."

The team embarked on their journey, and in the dawn light, their figures gradually disappeared into the distance, leaving only a string of determined footprints and the villagers' reluctant gazes. Wildflowers along the roadside swayed in the wind, as if bidding farewell to these warriors.

"Look, they really just left!" A young girl tugged at her mother's sleeve, her eyes sparkling with curiosity and admiration. "Brother Zhao De and the others are so brave!"

The mother smiled and patted her daughter's head. "Yes, my child. Everyone has their own courage within them, waiting to be unleashed. You too can become a hero like them someday."

The village's clamor gradually subsided as the group left, but discussions about the adventure spread like wildfire in every corner.

"Have you heard? That map is said to be a treasure from ancient legends, capable of guiding people to secrets unknown to anyone." In the teahouse, several villagers sat together, discussing in hushed tones.

"Secrets? Hmph, I think it's more dangerous." A thin old man stroked his beard and shook his head as he said, "I also dreamed of adventure when I was young, but now, safety comes first. My few acres of land at home make me feel more at ease."

“Don’t say that, Old Chen,” the middle-aged woman opposite retorted. “If it weren’t for brave warriors like Zhao De and his men, would our tribe be where we are today? Who knows, we might bring back another miracle this time!”

As they talked, the group entered a dense forest. The surrounding environment became increasingly dark, and the air was filled with the damp scent of earth.

"Wow, this place is so eerie!" a young man in the group muttered to himself, his face turning pale.

"Quiet, focus." The Black Hawk leader, walking at the front, gave a low command, his eyes sharp as an eagle's, scanning every corner where danger might lurk.

Just then, the bushes not far ahead suddenly rustled, and everyone instantly became alert, gripping their weapons tightly.

"Who's there?" Zhao De asked in a deep voice. He stared intently at the swaying grass, his feet not moving, but his whole body exuded an invisible pressure.

A rustling sound came from the grass, and then a thin figure slowly stood up. It was a ragged child, his dirty face filled with terror.

Chapter 374 The Monster's Lair

"Don't be afraid, we're not bad people." Zhao De softened his tone, signaling the group to relax. He slowly walked towards the child, squatted down, and asked gently, "How did you get here?"

The child sized up the group, a flicker of hesitation in his eyes, before finally speaking, "I escaped... from that, that monster's territory..."