I stepped into the bustling town of Stonebridge(one of the stops in the journey), my eyes taking in the lively streets and impressive architecture. The town felt so different from my quiet village. Tall stone buildings stood with intricate carvings of legendary beasts and ancient runes. The cobblestone streets gleamed in the sunlight, full of the sounds of merchants calling out their offers and children running between stalls. The air was thick with the smell of roasted meats and the fragrant spices of exotic herbs.
As I walked through the town, I noticed how quickly the people seemed to notice me. The busy chatter faded into a soft murmur, and the crowd parted before me, almost instinctively. I could feel the eyes on me, filled with a mix of awe and respect. The faint aura of a cultivator surrounded me, marking me as someone special—a figure of power and mystery.
"Honored cultivator!" A shopkeeper stepped forward, bowing deeply. "Please accept my humble greetings. May fortune smile upon your path."
A little girl clung to her mother's hand, staring at me with wide eyes. "Mama, is he really a cultivator?" she whispered, barely audible.
Her mother nodded, lowering her head slightly as I passed. "Yes, dear. He walks a path few can even dream of."
I gave them a small nod, acknowledging their greetings, though I couldn't help but feel a bit distant from it all. The respect I was receiving was a reminder of just how much had changed.
I continued my walk and soon found myself in the town square, where merchant caravans were preparing to leave. Wagons full of goods stood ready, guarded by watchful eyes. The air was filled with the hum of activity.
After asking around, I finally arrived at the caravan I had chosen.
A tall, bearded man dressed in practical, yet fine, clothes approached me, bowing with respect and cautious curiosity. "Greetings, honored cultivator. I am Yuan Feng, leader of this caravan. We are headed for Redwater City. Might I ask if that is your destination as well?"
I paused for a moment, then nodded. "It is."
Yuan Feng smiled brightly. "Your presence would be an honor, young master. The roads are dangerous, but with someone of your skill among us, we'll surely be safe. We'll do everything we can to ensure your comfort."
I considered his words. Traveling with the caravan would offer protection and give me a chance to see the world beyond my village. Plus, Redwater City was an important stop on my path toward Emerald Edge Island, where I could find even greater opportunities for cultivation.
"I accept," I said simply.
Yuan Feng bowed again. "You honor us, young master. Allow me to introduce you to some of our key members."
Soon, I met Mei Ling, a sharp-eyed woman in charge of the caravan's inventory. She greeted me respectfully and with a warm smile. "It's rare for someone like you to join a humble caravan like ours. Your presence is truly a blessing."
Next, I met Old Luo, the tough head guard with a scar running down his cheek. Despite his rugged appearance, he bowed deeply, showing true sincerity. "Young master, it's a privilege to travel under your protection. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask."
Finally, there was Little Ping, a young boy who couldn't have been more than fourteen. His eyes were full of admiration as he clumsily bowed to me. "You're amazing, young master! Could you show us your skills sometime?"
I smiled faintly. "Maybe another time," I said gently.
That evening, the caravan set up camp by a peaceful brook outside the town. The merchants had prepared a tent for me, complete with fine bedding. The respect they showed me was overwhelming, a reminder of just how rare and valued cultivators were in this world.
As I sat by the fire and ate a simple, hearty meal with the merchants, the familiar voice of the system echoed in my mind.
[Sign-In Quest Activated]
Location: Redwater City
Reward: Primal Qi Formation Manual (Beast Path)
I couldn't help but smile at the notification. Redwater City wasn't just another stop on my journey—it was an important milestone. The reward promised to help strengthen my foundation in the Beast Path, bringing me one step closer to my goals.
Yuan Feng, sitting across from me, broke the silence. "Young master, if I may ask, why did you choose the Beast Path?"
I looked at him and replied calmly, "The Beast Path offers balance. It focuses on survival and growth—practicality over fame."
Old Luo, who had been quietly listening, nodded approvingly. "A wise choice, young master. Most young cultivators chase after fame, but you've chosen a path of wisdom. I respect that."
Yuan Feng smiled. "It's an honor to travel with someone who has such insight. The world could learn much from your perspective."
As the fire crackled and the stars began to fill the night sky, I couldn't help but feel a sense of calm. The road ahead was still long, but I was ready for it.
The next morning, the caravan set out at dawn, the creaking of the wagons as they rolled along the dusty road. I rode alongside them, my eyes scanning the horizon. Every step brought me closer to Redwater City, and with it, the next chapter of my journey.