As dawn broke over the horizon, the air was thick with anticipation. Alex, Lianhua, Mei, and Wei had packed their belongings and set out on the winding path to Cloud Village. The morning sun bathed the landscape in a warm glow, but beneath the beauty lay an undercurrent of tension.
"Do you think we'll really find allies in Cloud Village?" Alex asked, trying to mask his nerves.
"Of course! They're known for their combat skills," Lianhua assured him. "But we have to be careful; rumors of the Shadow Warlord's minions have spread, and they may be lurking around."
Wei suddenly halted, pointing ahead. "Look! There's something moving in the bushes!"
The group fell silent, tension palpable in the air. They crept closer, hearts racing, ready to draw their weapons. As they neared the brush, a group of bandits jumped out, armed with crude swords and menacing grins.
"Looks like we've found some trouble!" Mei hissed, her eyes narrowing.
"Get ready!" Lianhua commanded, drawing her sword with a swift motion.
"Wait! Can't we negotiate?" Alex blurted out, raising his hands. "I mean, how about we share some cookies instead?"
One of the bandits laughed, a rough sound that echoed through the trees. "Cookies? We want your supplies, not your snacks!"
"No cookies? Well, now we have a problem!" Wei said, grinning as he drew his wooden sword. "Let's teach these guys a lesson!"
"On my mark! Attack!" Lianhua shouted, her voice steady and commanding.