The path of the betrayed sky

## ** Chapter 13: The Village of the Renegades **

After another day of travel, Liang Feng and Mei Lin finally spotted the hidden village. It was located in a valley surrounded by mountains, with simple cabins and cultivated fields. Despite the humble appearance, there was an aura of power in the air, as if the village was protected by an invisible force.

"This is the Vila dos Renegados," said Mei Lin, watching the place with alert eyes. - "They won't receive us with open arms, so we need to be careful."

Liang Feng nodded, feeling a wave of apprehension. He knew that trusting strangers was risky, but he also knew he had no choice.

"Let's try," he said finally.

They descended the trail toward the village, but were intercepted by two guards at the entrance. They were robust cultivators, with suspicious eyes and weapons in their hands.

- "Who are you and what do you want here?" Asked one of the guards, his voice lasts.

Mei Lin took a step forward, keeping a calm and respectful posture.

"We are travelers looking for allies. We need help facing the shadow clan."

The guards exchanged glances, but did not lower the weapons.

- "And why should we trust you?" Asked the second guard, his voice loaded with distrust.

Liang Feng stepped forward, his serious expression.

"Because we have been betrayed too. And because we know that if we do not unite, the shadow clan will destroy us one by one."

The guards hesitated, but finally lowered the weapons.

- "Wait here. Let's call the village leader."

While waiting, Liang Feng looked around, watching the village inhabitants. They were cultivators of all ages and origins, but all shared an expression of determination and resilience. He knew these were people who had faced adversity and survived, just like him.

Finally, a tall, imposing -looking man appeared, followed by the guards. He had gray hair and eyes that shone wisely and experience.

"I am the leader Kang," said the man, his serious and authoritarian voice. - "I heard you are looking for allies."

Mei Lin step forward, keeping a respectful posture.

- "Yes, leader Kang. We need help facing the shadow clan. They are a threat to us all."

Leader Kang studied them for a moment, as if he tried to decipher his intentions.

- "And why should we trust you?" He asked finally.

Liang Feng stepped forward, his serious expression.

"Because we have been betrayed too. And because we know that if we do not unite, the shadow clan will destroy us one by one."

Leader Kang looked at him for a moment, before heading.

-"Okay. Let's hear what you have to say. But if I feel they are lying, I won't hesitate to expel them."

Liang Feng and Mei Lin exchanged glances, feeling a wave of relief. They knew this was just the first step, but they also knew they were on the right track.

"Thanks," said Mei Lin, his voice full of gratitude.

Leader Kang nodded before turning and walking toward the village.

-"Follow me. Let's discuss this in a more appropriate place."