Chapter 34: Into Crimson Territory
The journey into the Crimson Wolf Sect's territory was anything but uneventful. The air grew colder, the once-lush greenery giving way to rocky terrain and jagged cliffs. Villages became scarce, and the roads were patrolled by sect members bearing the unmistakable crimson insignia of the Crimson Wolf.
Lin Yun, Yu Xian, and Mei traveled cautiously, their disguises simple but effective. While Lin Yun had gained some notoriety from his victory in the tournament, it was unlikely the common guards would recognize him immediately.
"I don't like this," Mei muttered as they passed a checkpoint. "The sect's influence here is overwhelming. It feels like they own everything."
Yu Xian nodded. "They do. The Crimson Wolf Sect isn't just powerful—they're ruthless. We need to tread carefully."
Lin Yun remained quiet, his eyes scanning the surroundings. The weight of their mission was heavy on his shoulders. They weren't just here to gather information; they were walking straight into the lion's den.
---
Their destination was Red Fang Village, a small settlement under the direct control of the Crimson Wolf Sect. It served as a hub for sect operations and was rumored to house some of their lower-ranked elders.
The village was eerily quiet when they arrived. The few villagers who were outside avoided eye contact, their faces marked by weariness and fear. Crimson Wolf disciples patrolled the streets, their presence oppressive.
"This place feels dead," Mei said softly, her voice tinged with anger.
Lin Yun's gaze lingered on a group of children playing near the edge of the village. Their laughter was subdued, their movements cautious, as if even their joy was monitored.
"We'll blend in for now," Lin Yun said. "Let's find an inn and gather information. Keep your heads low."
--
The inn they chose was modest, its wooden structure worn but sturdy. It also doubled as a tavern, where travelers and sect members often gathered.
As they sat at a corner table, Lin Yun kept his hood low, listening to the conversations around them. Yu Xian and Mei did the same, their eyes scanning the room.
One voice caught Lin Yun's attention—a gruff man sitting at the bar, his tone hushed but insistent.
"...I'm telling you, the sect's been bringing in something big. They've closed off the southern caves entirely. No one's allowed near them."
"Southern caves?" the man's companion asked. "What's so important there?"
The gruff man lowered his voice further. "I heard it's an artifact. Something ancient. They're keeping it under heavy guard."
Lin Yun exchanged a glance with Yu Xian. The mention of an artifact aligned with the rumors they'd heard on the road.
Before they could discuss further, the door to the tavern slammed open. A group of Crimson Wolf disciples strode in, their crimson robes stark against the dim light.
One of them, a tall man with a scar running down his cheek, scanned the room. His eyes narrowed as they landed on Lin Yun's table.
"You," the man said, pointing at them. "What are you doing here?"
---
Lin Yun stood slowly, keeping his posture calm but ready. "We're just passing through," he said, his voice measured. "No trouble here."
The scarred man sneered. "This is Crimson Wolf territory. Strangers don't pass through without permission. Show me your papers."
Yu Xian moved subtly, her hand resting near her weapon, but Lin Yun raised a hand to stop her. "We don't have papers," he admitted. "We're travelers, nothing more."
The scarred man stepped closer, his hand resting on the hilt of his blade. "Travelers, huh? Funny how you seem to be listening a little too closely to things that don't concern you."
Lin Yun met his gaze, unflinching. "We're not looking for trouble, but we'll defend ourselves if we have to."
The tension in the room was palpable. Mei's eyes darted to the exit, calculating their chances of escape. Yu Xian's grip on her weapon tightened.
The scarred man smirked. "You've got guts, I'll give you that. But guts won't save you here."
---
Before the man could draw his blade, Lin Yun moved. In a flash, he closed the distance, his palm striking the man's wrist and disarming him. The blade clattered to the floor, and Lin Yun followed up with a kick that sent the man sprawling.
The other disciples reacted immediately, drawing their weapons and charging. Yu Xian and Mei sprang into action, their movements precise and deadly.
Yu Xian's spear danced through the air, disarming one disciple and sending another crashing into a table. Mei's daggers moved like shadows, her strikes swift and calculated.
Lin Yun, wielding his Spirit-Rank blade, fought with a calm intensity. His movements were fluid, his strikes efficient. Despite being outnumbered, the trio held their ground.
The tavern descended into chaos, tables and chairs splintering under the weight of the fight. The villagers outside peered through the windows, their faces pale with fear.
---
When the last disciple fell, Lin Yun turned to Yu Xian and Mei. "We need to leave. Now."
They exited the tavern quickly, their hoods pulled low. Behind them, the sounds of the brawl still echoed, but Lin Yun knew it wouldn't be long before reinforcements arrived.
As they disappeared into the night, Lin Yun's mind raced. The mention of the southern caves and the artifact was too significant to ignore.
"We've stirred the hornet's nest," Yu Xian said, her breathing heavy.
"Good," Lin Yun replied, his eyes narrowing. "Now we know where to strike."