From Sword to Slaughter: Evolution

"Ren Xing, from now on, you are the new City Lord of Star City," Governor Cheng declared as he spoke, gesturing for one of his subordinates to bring over an official appointment letter.

He signed the letter and stamped it with his seal, formally confirming Ren Xing's position as the City Lord.

"Thank you, Governor Cheng," Ren Xing replied, his voice filled with excitement.

Becoming the City Lord of Star City marked the first step in his ambitious journey.

Watching this unfold, Wei Xun couldn't help but feel disheartened. While he hadn't cared much about becoming City Lord before, losing the title to Ren Xing left him feeling as though something vital had been taken from him. It was a bitter feeling.

"Hmm, there's something I need your help with," Governor Cheng continued, giving Wei Xun a glance.

Wei Xun, understanding the signal, cupped his fists in respect and quickly exited the hall.

"Please, Governor, tell me how I can assist you," Ren Xing responded respectfully.

"You know of Deserted Sand City to the north, correct?" Governor Cheng asked in a calm voice.

"Yes," Ren Xing nodded.

Deserted Sand City was located north of Star City, situated in a desert region. The city had long been abandoned and was said to be controlled by a group of bandits who extorted travelers for money.

"I want you to eliminate those bandits within a month," Governor Cheng stated firmly, fixing Ren Xing with a sharp gaze.

"Eliminate the bandits?" Ren Xing was momentarily stunned.

He had heard of the bandits in Deserted Sand City. Among them was a formidable warrior at the peak of the seventh tier. With his current strength, facing such a foe would be a significant challenge. And to do it all in just one month?

"A month is more than enough, isn't it?" Governor Cheng asked, narrowing his eyes at Ren Xing.

"Yes, it is," Ren Xing quickly replied, gritting his teeth.

He understood that this task was a deliberate challenge set by the governor. Despite his reservations, he had no choice but to accept. Moreover, he sensed that two powerful experts accompanying Governor Cheng were keeping a close watch on him. Any hesitation or refusal would be dangerous.

"Good. I'll expect good news from you in a month," Governor Cheng said, patting Ren Xing on the shoulder before turning to leave.

"Let's go," Governor Cheng called to his men, signaling that it was time to move out.

Ren Xing was caught off guard. "Governor, won't you stay a few days longer?"

"I have urgent matters to attend to in the Dilong Empire. I was merely passing through," Governor Cheng replied with a faint smile.

The Dilong Empire?

Ren Xing understood. The Dilong Empire was indeed closer from Star City.

"In that case, allow me to escort you, Governor," Ren Xing said, gesturing for the guards to see Governor Cheng and his entourage off.

Once they were gone, Ren Xing finally exhaled, relieved.

"They had several powerful experts with them..." Ren Xing muttered to himself as he watched Governor Cheng's group disappear into the distance.

"Sooner or later, I'll become a governor myself," Ren Xing whispered with a glint of ambition in his eyes.

"Congratulations, Lord Ren," Huang Conghui, the leader of the Steel Iron Mercenary Group, said as he approached.

Ren Xing glanced at him. "What do you think of the strength of Governor Cheng's entourage?"

"They're strong," Huang Conghui answered without hesitation.

The moment Governor Cheng and his men had arrived, Huang Conghui could sense the overwhelming aura of power surrounding them.

"He gave me a task," Ren Xing continued, his tone grim.

"What kind of task?" Huang Conghui asked, his curiosity piqued.

"He wants me to eliminate the bandits in Deserted Sand City," Ren Xing said, his voice heavy with frustration.

One month was simply too little time. The bandits were hardened warriors, and rumors said they were led by a seventh-tier powerhouse. How was he supposed to defeat them?

"The bandits in Deserted Sand City?!" Huang Conghui exclaimed, shocked.

The bandits were infamous for their brutality. Even the Steel Iron Mercenary Group didn't dare venture into their territory.

"Yes," Ren Xing grumbled. "Damn it, I only have one month to deal with them. How am I supposed to do that?"

If he couldn't resolve the matter within a month, there was no doubt that he would be removed from his position as City Lord.

"Forget it. For now, we'll focus on taking down the Lion Mercenary Group," Ren Xing decided.

Returning to the City Lord's mansion, Ren Xing pulled out a bottle of "Source Gathering Pills" and popped them into his mouth like candy. Holding the Demon-Slaying Sword, he crossed his legs and began meditating.

With the sword's [Full Attribute Boost] ability, his cultivation speed had drastically increased.

Ren Xing could feel the energy from the pills spreading throughout his body, being rapidly absorbed by his meridians. He needed to break through to the sixth tier as quickly as possible!

"That Governor Cheng seems formidable, especially his bodyguards," Ye Fan remarked, sensing the challenge ahead.

Thinking about the task given to Ren Xing, Ye Fan couldn't help but chuckle. It would be interesting to see how Ren Xing handled the situation.

...

A week passed quickly.

During that time, Ren Xing continued to recruit guards, quickly forming a strong defensive force for Star City.

After completing his preparations, Ren Xing led the Steel Iron Mercenary Group toward the Tiangu Mountains.

The Tiangu Mountains lay between Qing City and Star City. The Lion Mercenary Group controlled the entire area, which was rich in gold and high-grade metals. Recently, rumors had spread of an ancient relic hidden in the mountains, attracting even more attention.

"Lord Ren, up ahead is the Tiangu Mountains," Huang Conghui announced, leading the way.

After a long journey, they finally caught sight of the towering mountains in the distance. The peaks were covered with dense forests, their treetops reaching into the clouds.

"Good," Ren Xing nodded slightly.

Since advancing to the sixth tier, Ren Xing's entire demeanor had changed, exuding even more power. The Steel Iron Mercenary Group members felt a mixture of excitement and fear. They all knew what they were here for.

"Are you sure about this, my lord?" Huang Conghui asked cautiously.

Ren Xing had declared that they would take control of the Tiangu Mountains. If the Lion Mercenary Group resisted, there would be no mercy.

"Of course. If they resist..." Ren Xing's eyes flashed with cold intent. "We will kill them all."