Chapter 58: Tracking the Shadows

The morning sun bathed the village in light, revealing the full extent of the destruction. Burnt homes, broken walls, and shattered windows greeted Tang Xiu as he stood silently in the square. The villagers moved about, working together to salvage what they could.

Yan Rou approached him with a clay jar of water. "You should rest. You pushed yourself too hard last night."

Tang Xiu shook his head, his expression calm but firm. "There's no time for rest. The enemy is still out there, and they won't wait for us to recover."

Lei Xian walked over, his sword strapped to his back. "I scouted the edges of the forest. No sign of anyone, but there are faint traces of the mist leading west."

"West…" Tang Xiu repeated thoughtfully. His eyes narrowed. "That leads to the Blackridge Hills. If the enemy retreated that way, it's likely their base is somewhere in the area."

Lei Xian crossed his arms. "That's dangerous territory. Bandits, wild beasts, and no clear paths. If they're hiding there, they'll be hard to find."

"That's why we can't delay," Tang Xiu said. "The longer we wait, the more time they have to regroup."

Yan Rou hesitated, then spoke up. "If you're going to the hills, you'll need supplies. I'll prepare some food and medicine for you."

Tang Xiu gave her a nod of gratitude. "Thank you. Keep the villagers safe while we're gone."

By noon, Tang Xiu and Lei Xian set out, their packs light but prepared for the journey. The sun was high, and the air was humid as they entered the dense forest west of the village.

Tang Xiu kept his senses sharp, scanning the surroundings for any signs of danger. The faint traces of mist lingered on the trees and ground, leading them deeper into the wilderness.

"It feels like a trap," Lei Xian muttered, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. "They're leaving just enough traces to draw us in."

Tang Xiu glanced at him. "It might be. But we can't ignore it. If we hesitate, they'll attack the village again, and next time, we might not be able to stop them."

Lei Xian sighed. "I hope you're right about this."

As the day wore on, the forest grew darker, the trees thicker and the air colder. The once faint traces of mist became more distinct, forming a faint trail that led them up a steep incline.

They reached the edge of the Blackridge Hills as the sun began to set, the sky painted in hues of orange and red. The rocky terrain was unforgiving, with sharp cliffs and narrow paths.

Tang Xiu stopped, his eyes scanning the horizon. "The mist is stronger here. We're close."

Lei Xian squatted down, examining the ground. "Footprints. Fresh ones. Someone's been through here recently."

Tang Xiu knelt beside him, his gaze sharpening. "They're trying to lead us into an ambush. Stay alert."

As they continued, the trail led them to a narrow canyon. The walls were high, casting long shadows as the last light of day faded.

"This is a perfect place for an ambush," Lei Xian said, his voice low.

Tang Xiu nodded, his hand tightening around his staff. "Then we'll use it against them."

The two moved cautiously, their footsteps silent as they entered the canyon. The air grew colder, the mist thickening around them.

A low growl echoed through the canyon, followed by the sound of footsteps. Tang Xiu and Lei Xian froze, their eyes darting around.

"They're here," Tang Xiu said quietly.

Dark figures emerged from the mist, their faces obscured by hoods. There were five of them, each holding weapons that glinted in the dim light.

"You've come far, Tang Xiu," one of the figures said, their voice cold and mocking. "But this is where your journey ends."

Tang Xiu smirked, his confidence unshaken. "You've gone through all this trouble just for me? I'm flattered."

The figure's tone darkened. "Don't be. You've interfered with our plans for the last time."

Lei Xian drew his sword, the blade gleaming. "You talk too much. Let's see if you can back it up."

The battle began in an instant. The hooded figures attacked in unison, their weapons slashing through the air. Tang Xiu moved swiftly, his staff glowing with faint green light as he deflected their strikes.

Lei Xian fought beside him, his sword a blur as he parried and countered. The narrow canyon worked to their advantage, limiting the movements of their enemies.

"These aren't ordinary fighters," Lei Xian shouted, dodging a spear thrust. "Their skills are sharp!"

Tang Xiu blocked a heavy blow, his eyes narrowing as he felt the force behind it. "They've been trained—probably by whoever sent them."

One of the hooded figures lunged at Tang Xiu, a dagger aimed at his heart. Tang Xiu sidestepped smoothly, his staff swinging upward to strike the attacker's arm. The dagger clattered to the ground as the figure cried out in pain.

Tang Xiu didn't hesitate, following up with a powerful strike to the figure's chest. They collapsed, unconscious.

"Four left," Tang Xiu said, his voice steady.

Lei Xian grinned as he disarmed another attacker, kicking them to the ground. "Make that three."

The remaining figures hesitated, realizing they were outmatched.

Tang Xiu took a step forward, his gaze cold. "Tell me who sent you, and I might let you live."

The leader of the group laughed bitterly. "You think we fear death? You have no idea what you're up against."

Before Tang Xiu could respond, the leader raised a hand. A dark, swirling energy surrounded the group, and they vanished into the mist.

Tang Xiu clenched his fists, frustration flickering across his face. "They escaped. But this isn't over."

Lei Xian sheathed his sword, his expression grim. "What now?"

Tang Xiu turned toward the deeper part of the canyon, where the trail of mist continued. "We keep going. They're leading us somewhere—and I intend to find out where."

As they pressed on, the night deepened, and the air grew colder. Tang Xiu's mind raced with questions. Who were these people? What was their goal? And why were they so determined to stop him?

One thing was certain—this was just the beginning. The shadows held secrets, and Tang Xiu was determined to uncover them, no matter the cost.