Chapter 22: Red Willow City

The sun hung low in the sky as Lin Yun and Yu Xian made their way toward Red Willow City. The journey had been long, and though they had covered many miles, the city's silhouette still seemed distant, barely visible through the haze of the morning. The landscape around them was flat and barren, with only the occasional tree or rock formation to break up the monotony of the desert-like terrain.

"This place is famous for more than just its market," Yu Xian remarked, her tone laced with caution. "The city is a haven for all manner of shady characters—mercenaries, thieves, and spies. It's not a place you can trust anyone."

"I know what I'm getting into," Lin Yun replied, his gaze focused ahead. "I've been in cities like this before."

"You're still new to this world," Yu Xian said, her voice a little softer. "Things aren't as simple here. The rules are different."

Lin Yun nodded. He understood the gravity of her words. The Murim world was a place where strength mattered more than anything. But what if strength wasn't enough? What if knowledge, wit, and alliances were just as important? He couldn't afford to make mistakes.

---

As they reached the outskirts of Red Willow City, the bustle of the marketplace became apparent. The scent of spices and fresh produce filled the air, and the sound of haggling merchants mixed with the calls of street performers. But despite the lively atmosphere, Lin Yun could feel the undercurrent of tension. This was a city that thrived on trade—but also on secrets.

"We'll need to be careful," Yu Xian cautioned, scanning the crowd. "There are eyes everywhere."

Lin Yun glanced around, sensing the presence of countless individuals watching them from the shadows. He wasn't sure if it was just the atmosphere of the city, or if his instincts were growing sharper, but something about the crowd felt off.

Yu Xian led them toward a narrow alley that seemed to veer off from the main thoroughfare. "This is where the real information is. If you want to learn anything useful, we'll have to speak to the right people."

As they moved deeper into the alley, the sounds of the city began to fade, replaced by the distant murmur of conversations and the clink of metal against stone.

---

The alley opened up to a small courtyard, where a series of dimly lit buildings stood in a row. Some were taverns, others appeared to be workshops, and a few seemed to be nondescript homes. Yu Xian led Lin Yun to the door of a shabby establishment, the sign above it barely readable due to years of wear and tear.

"This is where we'll find the information we need," Yu Xian said, her voice low. "But be prepared—nothing comes for free in this place."

They entered, the door creaking as it opened. Inside, the atmosphere was thick with smoke and the smell of liquor. A handful of people sat around a large table, engaged in low conversation. Most of them looked up briefly as Lin Yun and Yu Xian entered but quickly returned to their business.

At the far end of the room stood an older man, his face hidden behind a heavy hood. He had a cane resting beside him, and his eyes gleamed with a sharpness that suggested he was no stranger to the underworld of Red Willow City.

Yu Xian walked toward him, her steps measured. The man didn't react at first, but as she approached, he looked up, his eyes narrowing.

"Yu Xian," the man said, his voice gravelly. "I should've known you'd be back. What brings you to my humble establishment this time?"

"I need information," Yu Xian said bluntly. "About the Obsidian Claw Alliance."

The man raised an eyebrow. "That's dangerous territory you're asking about."

"Danger is part of the job," Yu Xian replied, her voice unwavering.

The man leaned back in his chair, his fingers drumming on the armrest. "What's your interest in them?"

"I want to know where they're operating. Who's behind their movements. Anything you can tell me."

The man studied her for a long moment before nodding. "Fine. But this information isn't free. I'll need something in return."

Yu Xian glanced at Lin Yun, then back at the man. "We don't have much to offer right now."

"That's not my problem," the man said with a shrug. "But I'm sure we can come to an arrangement."

---

The man's gaze shifted toward Lin Yun, a knowing glint in his eye. "You look like someone who's been through a lot. But I've got something you might be interested in. A relic, perhaps, that might help with your… situation."

Lin Yun tensed. "What kind of relic?"

The man smirked. "You don't think the Obsidian Claw Alliance is the only group seeking power, do you? There are others, just as dangerous, who also covet the relics of old. If you want to face the Alliance, you need to be prepared to face them all."

Yu Xian stepped forward, her hand resting on the hilt of her blade. "We don't have time for games. What do you want?"

The man chuckled. "All in good time, my dear. First, tell me: what do you know about the Seven Shards of Heaven?"

Lin Yun's heart skipped a beat. The name was one he'd read in the scrolls, but he hadn't expected to hear it here, in this place.

"The Seven Shards of Heaven…" Yu Xian said slowly, her voice tinged with recognition. "They're said to be pieces of an ancient artifact. Powerful enough to change the course of the entire Murim world."

The man's eyes gleamed. "And you'd be right. The Obsidian Claw Alliance is looking for them, but so are many others. And some of those others might be closer than you think."

Lin Yun exchanged a glance with Yu Xian. This was bigger than they had anticipated.

"If you want to stop the Alliance," the man continued, "you'll need more than just strength. You'll need allies. And to get allies, you'll need power—power that only the Seven Shards can provide."

---

Lin Yun's mind raced. The Seven Shards were pieces of a legendary artifact, and if they were all in the hands of one faction… The power could be unimaginable. The Obsidian Claw Alliance wasn't just a threat—they could reshape the entire Murim world.

"We'll need to find the other shards," Lin Yun said, his voice steady.

Yu Xian nodded. "But how do we even begin?"

The man leaned forward, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes. "You start by trusting me."

He handed them a small, weathered map. "The first shard is rumored to be in the possession of a merchant faction in the far north. They're trading relics and artifacts, but none know the true value of what they possess."

Lin Yun took the map, his resolve hardening. "Then we go north."

The man's smile widened. "Good luck. You'll need it."