The path of the betrayed sky

## ** Chapter 12: The Journey to the hidden village **

The dawn brought with it a clear sky and a soft breeze, but Liang Feng and Mei Lin had no time to enjoy the landscape. They were mounted on horses, following a narrow trail that led to the mountains. Old Master Hong had guided them on the way, but warned that the journey would be dangerous.

- "The hidden village is beyond the Valley of the Shadows," - said Mei Lin, consulting an old map. - "If we follow this trail, we should get there in two days."

Liang Feng looked at the horizon, where the mountains rose like sleeping giants. He knew the way ahead would be full of dangers, but he also knew he had no choice.

"Let's go on," he said, squeezing the horse's reins.

They traveled all day, stopping only to rest and feed. At night they camped in a clearing surrounded by tall trees. The fire crackled gently, illuminating their tired faces.

- "What do you think we will find in the village?" Asked Liang Feng, breaking the silence.

Mei Lin looked at the fire, his thoughtful expression.

"Cultivators like us, who have been betrayed or expelled from their sects. They may not trust us immediately, but if we can earn their loyalty, they will be valuable allies."

Liang Feng didn't answer, but felt a wave of apprehension. He knew that trusting strangers was risky, but he also knew he couldn't face the shadow clan alone.

"I hope you are right," he said finally.

On the second day of travel, they arrived in the Valley of the Shadows. The place was as dark as the name suggested, with twisted trees and a thick mist that covered the floor. The air was heavy, loaded with a strange and disturbing energy.

"Be careful," Mei Lin whispered, holding his spiritual range. - "This place is known for your pitfalls and spiritual beasts."

Liang Feng waved his head, circulating the Qi in his body. He knew he needed to be prepared for anything.

Suddenly a roar echoed through the valley, followed by the sound of breaking branches. A spiritual beast emerged from the mist, his eyes shining like embers. He was an imposing creature with sharp claws and a fire juba.

"Stay behind me," said Liang Feng, branding his wooden sword.

However, Mei Lin did not obey. Instead, she positioned herself beside him, her spiritual range open and ready for combat.

"We do it together," said, his voice firm.

The beast attacked, moving at a surprising speed. Liang Feng deflected from a blow from the claws, counterattacking with a powerful blow that hit the creature's flank. Mei Lin used his fan to create a Qi barrier, protecting them from a second attack.

The battle was intense, but Liang Feng and Mei Lin worked together as a team. He used his strength and aggressiveness as she complemented with her accuracy and strategy. Finally, the beast fell to the ground, defeated.

Liang Feng took a deep breath, feeling the adrenaline running in his veins. He looked at Mei Lin, who was a little tired but unharmed.

- "Are you well?" He asked, his voice full of concern.

She waved her head, smiling slightly.

- "I am good and you?"

Liang Feng looked at his lightly shaking hands. He knew this was just the first of many battles, but he also knew he was no longer alone.

"I'm fine," he said finally. - "Thanks for being by my side."

Mei Lin put his hand over his, surprising him with the gesture.

- "We are a team now, Liang Feng. I won't leave you alone."

Liang Feng looked at her, feeling a new determination burn inside him. He knew that the way ahead would be difficult, but he also knew that there was someone who he could trust.

"Let's continue," he said, looking at the horizon. - "The village is no longer so far."