Lao Zhang's brow furrowed in confusion. "Your due?" he echoed, his voice laced with uncertainty. "I'm afraid I don't understand."
The cultivator's sneer widened, his eyes gleaming with a predatory light. "You dare to feign ignorance, old man?" he snarled. "Your village has been enjoying the protection of our sect for generations. It is time for you to repay your debt."
Lao Zhang's heart sank as he realized the cultivator's intentions. These cultivators from the Profound Mystery Sect were known for their ruthlessness, their greed, and their exploitation of the weak. He hadn't expected them to appear here out of nowhere.
"Honored cultivators," Lao Zhang said, his voice trembling slightly, "we are but a humble village, with little to offer. We have always paid our respects to your sect, offering tribute and fulfilling our obligations."
