As Feng Jiao Xue stepped into a bustling marketplace, she felt as though she had crossed a threshold into another world, where reality blended seamlessly with enchantment. The streets were paved with polished stones that shimmered like opals, reflecting the vibrant colors of the stalls above.
Yin Xiao was her company this time, sauntering beside her. Curious pair of eyes glancing around curiously as always. A skip in his step excitedly.
Feng Jiao Xue gently caressed his head. Before she arrived here, the previous her feared for the safety of her friend. Feng Jiao Xue, the one then, knew that she could not protect or keep Yin Xiao if he was discovered.
This time however, Feng Jiao Xue is confident in being able to protect him.
Yin Xiao nuzzled her palm offering a soft grunt.
"Stay beside me" Feng Jiao Xue reminded the silver coated deer, earning a nod before they strolled around.
The marketplace is different from the other shopping districts in the capital.
Situated in the corner of the capital, every stall was draped in rich, flowing fabrics that danced like the waves of a tranquil sea, their hues ranging from deep emerald greens to radiant sapphire blues, accented by gold and silver threads that glimmered in the sunlight. Lanterns of various shapes hung overhead, their soft glow illuminating the paths as the sun began to dip, casting a warm, inviting light. Each lantern seemed to contain tiny, swirling lights, perhaps captured fireflies or whispers of magic, that flickered with life, creating an ethereal ambiance.
The marketplace hummed with a melody of sounds: the soft clink of coins exchanged, the laughter of children chasing each other, and the rhythmic calls of vendors showcasing their wares. Feng Jiao Xue could hear the gentle chime of wind chimes crafted from delicate crystals, their notes merging into a soothing symphony that filled the air, enhancing the enchanting atmosphere.
Rich aromas wafted from food stalls, each offering a culinary delight that mingled in the air, creating a feast for the senses. Spicy dumplings steamed, sending puffs of fragrant vapor into the atmosphere, while roasted meats glistened under the sun, their spices swirling in an inviting dance. The sweet scent of honeyed pastries lingered nearby, drawing hungry passersby closer, while herbal teas brewed in earthenware pots emitted an earthy, soothing fragrance that promised relaxation and rejuvenation.
Feng Jiao Xue's eyes darted from stall to stall, each one a treasure trove of wonders. There were jars filled with glowing potions, their contents swirling like galaxies trapped in glass. Artisans displayed intricate talismans and spiritual artifacts, each imbued with enchantments that sparkled with a life of their own. The air crackled with energy as shoppers marveled at spirit stones that pulsed with vibrant colors, each hue hinting at its unique magical properties.
In one corner of the marketplace, a vendor showcased an array of spirit beast, tiny, radiant creatures with shimmering scales, fluffy coats or ethereal wings. They flitted about their cages while curious onlookers leaned in, entranced by their beauty. The sound of tiny chirps and gentle coos created a natural chorus, harmonizing with the bustling marketplace.
Further along, an air of mystery surrounded a shadowy stall where ancient scrolls and weathered tomes lay stacked high. The vendor, an enigmatic figure cloaked in shadows, beckoned with an alluring smile, as if sharing secrets of the universe. The delicate scent of aged parchment and ink hung in the air, mingling with a faint aura of arcane power that seemed to pulse from the very tomes themselves.
Feng Jiao Xue moves through the bustling marketplace, where cultivators and merchants haggle over rare ingredients and refined weapons. The smell of dried herbs mingles with the crisp bite of alchemy smoke drifting from nearby stalls. She keeps her hood low, her gaze focused but observant, scanning each vendor for items she'll need.
Since she cannot really rely much on the pills she made herself because of the lack of progress in that part, she headed to the familiar shop that actually sells them.
"Stay here" Feng Jiao Xue stroke Yin Xiao's head as she set him on the side of the shop's door. "I'll be quick" she promised, earning a nod.
She selects a handful of rejuvenation pills, golden Vitality Pills, known for their ability to quicken recovery from injuries.
Lastly, she inquires about Mending Elixirs, potent potions for treating deeper wounds. She also buys a few bundles of dried herbs she recognizes from her own training, items she can use to refine or even barter if necessary on the journey.
This time around, the shopkeeper treated her extremely well so her shopping went smoothly. Taking what she bought, she offered a nod of thanks before setting off once more.
It actually startled her. How they managed to recognize her but the Shopkeeper just gave her a mysterious smile making her acknowledge that everyone is entitled to their secrets. Not to mention that she has no interest in courting trouble by poking her head where it does not belong.
She thinks back to the warnings about Dark Wind Mountain, recalling stories of spirit beasts and strange, powerful winds that stir one's spirit energy. Her fingers graze the vial of pills tucked securely in her pack, and she takes a steady breath, preparing herself mentally.
After securing all her supplies, Feng Jiao Xue returns to her courtyard, where she double-checks her belongings, setting them on a storage bag; it is like a space ring, only with fewer spaces. It's merely for pretence but she did put all her necessities in it, opting to not use the mystique ring in her journey for now.
She adjusts her robes for optimal mobility. There's a quiet resolve in her movements; she knows that while this mission seems straightforward, she must be ready for anything.
"Think I've got everything ready?" She asked Huang Jin De in their mind link.
"Yes. Xiao Xue don't worry. If anything goes wrong I'll be here to protect you" Huang Jin De assured her, making her smile lightly.
"You know that I can't keep relying on others. I need to learn to rely on my own too. Unless it's a life and death situation, don't interfere" She replied making the other nod worriedly.
With everything set, Feng Jiao Xue went to bed to sleep before setting off tomorrow since that was the put upon date in the mission flier.
Feng Jiao Xue strode along the cobblestone path leading to the capital gates, her expression composed and distant. The morning sun cast a golden hue over the city, illuminating the lively sounds of merchants setting up their stalls behind her. But as she approached the towering wooden gates, a sense of determination filled her. The world beyond promised new challenges and, perhaps, the chance to grow.
Emerging into the Silver Oak Clearing just outside the gates, she took a moment to survey the scene. Adventurers were already gathered, their voices mingling in the air, but none of them paid her much attention. They seemed to be caught up in their own banter, laughter echoing under the expansive branches of the oak.
Feng Jiao Xue's cold demeanor stood in stark contrast to the vibrant energy of the group. A sturdy man with a weathered face and a braided beard was exchanging tales of past adventures, while a lithe woman with fiery red hair laughed loudly, captivating the others with her animated gestures.
Feng Jiao Xue felt like an outsider, a shadow at the edge of their circle. She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and adjusted her satchel, suppressing the urge to roll her eyes at their exuberance. 'Let them have their fun', she thought 'I'm not here to make friends'.
"You need allies, not enemies. Especially on missions. You're not an assassin that works alone anymore, Feng Jiao Xue. If you wan't to survive, making allies is necessary" Huang Jin De reminded her.
"I know" was her solemn reply. Somehow, it just doesn't feel right. Because even as an assassin, she didnt work alone. She had him then and it just has a sense of wrongness now.
As she stood back, arms crossed, she watched the others check their supplies, the excitement palpable. One tall cultivator polished a beautifully crafted sword, the blade glinting in the sunlight, while another tested the contents of her satchel, herbs spilling out as she giggled with a friend.
Feng Jiao Xue knew she should be mingling, introducing herself, but the thought made her stomach twist uncomfortably. She preferred the quiet of her own thoughts, the clarity that solitude brought. The sound of laughter grated on her nerves, and she cast her gaze toward the horizon, trying to ignore the rest.
"Hey, new girl!" called the red-haired woman, suddenly breaking through Feng Jiao Xue's thoughts. "You're here for the mission too, right? Ready to show us what you can do?"
Feng Jiao Xue's icy demeanor surfaced, and she met the woman's gaze with a cool, indifferent look. "I'm here to fulfill my mission," she replied flatly, the chill in her voice a stark contrast to the warmth of the others. She felt their eyes on her, some curious, some amused, but she maintained her distance.
Just then, an armored figure emerged from the shadows of the silver oak. The mission leader, a tall man with an air of authority, surveyed the group with keen eyes before speaking. "Welcome, everyone. We are embarking on a vital quest to find the Moonshade Herb in the depths of Dark Wind Mountain. The journey will be perilous, but with each of your skills combined, we stand a chance."
Feng Jiao Xue listened intently, her cold exterior hiding the flicker of anticipation inside her. This was her chance to prove herself—not just to the others, but to herself.
The leader began outlining their path, pointing toward a rough map laid out on a stone slab. Feng Jiao Xue focused on the details, her heart racing at the thought of the adventure ahead. While others shared ideas and strategies, she kept her comments to herself, preferring to observe rather than engage.
With a final nod of encouragement from the leader, the group gathered their belongings and prepared to set out. Feng Jiao Xue took a deep breath, grounding herself in the moment. As she glanced around at her fellow adventurers, she reminded herself that she was ready to embrace whatever came next, even if she had to do it alone and that's something she needs to get used to now.
A carriage stopped before them, pulled by two black horses with red eyes and metallic black horns. Fiercely, they neighed, lightning crackling on the ground as their front hooves slammed down. Shadow Mares. Known for their abilities to move as swift as shadows and their abilities to conjure lightning. These spirits beasts are known to be rank 4 and looking at the slight reddish orange lighting like linings in their horns, it was faint but it is there meaning that it is middle class bordering on high class.
The carriage is constructed from a rare, dark wood that gleams like polished ebony, intricately carved with motifs of swirling clouds and mythical creatures. The wood is complemented by gilded accents that shimmer in the sunlight, adding an air of opulence. Its silhouette is elongated and graceful, with arched roofs that taper elegantly at the ends, resembling a soaring bird in flight. The sides are adorned with large, ornate windows, framed with delicate lattice work that allows glimpses of the interior while maintaining privacy. The wheels are large and intricately designed, featuring spokes that resemble the rays of the sun. They are lined with enchanted metal that enables the carriage to glide over uneven terrain effortlessly.
It can be seen that whoever is inside this carriage they're figures that there are someone mere adventurers like them would never meet in normal circumstances. They have to belong to a high clan or something.
The leader signaled for everyone to get ready to head out summoning his contractual beast. Frostwing Gryphon, a magnificent gryphon with the body of a lion and the wings of an icy eagle. Its feathers are frosted blue, and its talons glisten like ice. This gryphon can create blizzards in battle and has the power to freeze enemies in place. It's an excellent mount for long-distance travel, able to soar high above the clouds.
"Rank 3, peak class" Huang Jin De supplied.
The others also followed suit.
Celestial Serpent, a long, sinuous creature adorned with shimmering scales that change color depending on its mood. It has feathered frills along its spine and glows faintly in the dark. This serpent can glide effortlessly through the air as well as swim through water. It possesses the ability to create illusions, making it a valuable companion for stealth missions.
"Rank 2, Low Class"
Embermane Lion, a majestic lion with a fiery mane that flickers like flames. Its fur is a deep russet color, and its eyes burn with a fierce intensity. This creature can summon small fireballs and has enhanced speed and agility. Its roar can intimidate foes and rally allies, making it a powerful ally in battle.
"Rank 1, peak class"
Moonshadow Panther, a sleek, midnight-black panther with luminescent silver spots that resemble stars. Its eyes shine with a gentle light, and it moves with a grace that seems almost ethereal. This panther is a master of stealth and can meld into shadows, making it nearly invisible. It has enhanced senses, allowing it to detect hidden dangers and navigate through the dark.
"Rank 1, Middle class"
Thunderhoof Stallion, a powerful stallion with a coat that resembles storm clouds, complete with crackling lightning patterns. Its mane flows like dark mist, and its hooves leave sparks in their wake. This stallion can summon thunderstorms and move at incredible speeds, leaving a trail of lightning behind. It has the ability to heal minor wounds with its energy, providing support to its rider.
"Rank 1, Peak Class"
Spirit Fox, a fox with a shimmering, almost translucent coat that reflects the colors of the environment. Its tails are long and flowing, resembling wisps of mist. This fox can create barriers of energy and is skilled in navigating through mystical realms. It can also enhance its rider's magical abilities, making it an excellent companion for magicians.
"Rank 2, middle class"
Feng Jiao Xue did not show physical response as Huang Jin De informed her of their contractual spirit beasts levels.
She simply summoned Yin Xiao as well and followed suit as they embarked on her first ever mission.