Chapter 25: Arrival at Red City
The battle against the Shadowfang Lynxes had left the group exhausted but victorious. Recognizing the value of their spoils, they carefully looted the remains of the beasts. Shadowfang Lynxes were considered legendary among demonic beasts due to their rarity and the high value of their parts. Their claws could be forged into weapons, their fur sold for spiritual armor, and their cores used for refining powerful pills.
"We've struck gold," Shi Lang said with a grin, holding up one of the cores. "The sect will be interested in this for sure."
The group decided to rest for the night in the village, recuperating from the fight. Around a modest campfire, they convened to discuss their next steps.
"We should report this to the sect," Lian Hua said. "The appearance of not one but two Shadowfang Lynxes so close to human settlements is unusual."
"Agreed," Feng Yi added. "We'll ask the villagers to deliver a message to the sect with proof of what we've encountered."
The group prepared a package containing the claws and fur of the Lynxes as evidence, along with a detailed report of the encounter. The village elder agreed to send a messenger to the sect, ensuring the information reached them promptly.
A Subtle Hint
The next day, the group resumed their journey, the village fading into the distance behind them. As they descended the mountain, Da Cai couldn't help but think about the strange circumstances surrounding the beasts.
"Why were they here?" he wondered aloud. "Shadowfang Lynxes shouldn't be this close to human settlements."
"Maybe something drove them out," Feng Yi replied, his tone thoughtful. "A stronger predator, or perhaps a disturbance in their natural habitat."
Lian Hua frowned. "If it's a stronger predator, that's troubling. But if it's something unnatural, it could be even worse."
The group fell into a contemplative silence. While they didn't have answers, the thought lingered in their minds, a subtle hint of a larger mystery looming on the horizon.
Arrival at Red City
The rest of the journey was uneventful. The group moved swiftly, their heightened senses and cultivation ensuring they stayed alert to any potential threats. As the mountain path widened, they caught their first glimpse of Red City. The towering crimson walls rose in the distance, a testament to the city's strength and grandeur. The sight filled them with a mix of relief and anticipation.
"There it is," Ren Zhen said, his voice tinged with excitement. "Red City."
Da Cai nodded, his gaze fixed on the sprawling metropolis. "Let's finish this mission and see what else the sect has in store for us."
With their destination in sight, the group quickened their pace, ready to deliver their message and continue their journey within the world of cultivation.