The Heir of the Celestial Diagram

Chapter 55: The Encounter with the Treasure Hunters

Han Feng left the ruins behind, his mind still analyzing the events that had occurred inside. The incomplete Gu he had found could be a springboard for his strength, but it needed a catalyst to refine it. The feeling that he was getting closer to something grand was growing inside him. With light steps and controlled breathing, he followed a trail through the mountains of the Western Region. The cold wind cut across his face, but it was nothing compared to the difficulties he had faced to get there. His Art of the Celestial Veil concealed his presence, ensuring that his movements were not easily detected. The Ambush While crossing a narrow valley, his sharp senses detected movement in the shadows. Han Feng stopped immediately and activated his spiritual perception. Five presences were hiding among the rocks around, their auras slightly masked. Treasure hunters. — He's alone. Let's do this quickly! — a low voice sounded among the shadows. A cold glint crossed Han Feng's eyes. In an instant, five figures leaped from their hiding places, surrounding him with weapons and combat skills. The leader, a burly man with a scar on his face, smiled maliciously. — Young friend, it seems you have found something valuable inside the ruins. How about sharing it with us? — said the man, his voice laden with dark intentions. Han Feng maintained an impassive expression, but inside he was already analyzing the best course of action. These men were Rank 2 Gu Masters, some at the peak of the realm. A direct confrontation would be easy, but he wanted to avoid drawing unnecessary attention. — And if I refuse? — Han Feng replied calmly, his purple eyes shining in the dark. — In that case... — The leader raised his hand and a Gu in the shape of a black dagger appeared. — ...we will have to take it by force! The Fight As soon as the order was given, the five attacked at the same time. Han Feng did not hesitate. With a fluid motion, he activated his Celestial Dark Flame, enveloping his fists in black fire. The first attacker was met with a direct blow to the chest. The impact burned his flesh and threw him back, writhing in pain. Two others tried to surround him from the sides, but Han Feng spun in the air and delivered a flaming kick, breaking one of their defenses and throwing him against a rock. The other managed to launch a restriction Gu, which tried to bind his movements with invisible silk threads. With a cold smile, Han Feng cut the threads with a burst of flames. The leader of the group stepped back slightly, realizing they had underestimated the young cultivator. — This is not an ordinary opponent! Everyone, form the suppression matrix! The survivors quickly activated their matrix Gus. An oppressive aura emerged, trapping Han Feng within a restrictive spiritual domain. He felt his energy being slowly drained. — Interesting, but insufficient. — Han Feng murmured. He closed his eyes for a moment, concentrating his energy. When he opened them again, an overwhelming force exploded from his body. The Celestial Dark Flame intensified, burning the very matrix. The leader of the hunters widened his eyes, realizing they were at an absolute disadvantage. Han Feng disappeared from his position and reappeared behind one of the enemies, striking his neck and knocking him out. With a swift movement, he hurled a blade of fire at another, incapacitating him. The leader tried to flee, but Han Feng extended his palm and a black flame engulfed him. The man screamed in pain before falling unconscious. The Lost Legacy With the battle over, Han Feng inspected the bodies and found an ancient map inside the leader's robes. His eyes shone upon seeing the inscription in the corner of the scroll: "Forgotten Temple of the Dark Soul." — It seems my next stop is already decided. — He smiled before disappearing into the darkness of the night.