Ling Fei stepped into the vibrant town of Stonebridge, his sharp gaze sweeping over the lively streets and elegant architecture. The town stood in stark contrast to his humble home village, with towering stone buildings adorned with carvings of legendary beasts and ancient runes. The streets, paved with cobblestones that gleamed in the sunlight, were alive with the hum of trade and conversation. Merchants shouted offers, children darted between stalls, and the rich aroma of roasted meats mingled with the fragrance of exotic spices and medicinal herbs.
As Ling Fei walked, the townspeople noticed him immediately. A hush fell over the bustling crowd as whispers spread like wildfire. People parted before him as if by instinct, their eyes filled with a mix of awe and respect. The faint aura of a cultivator that surrounded him marked him as someone extraordinary—one in a thousand, a figure of power and mystery.
"Honored cultivator!" A shopkeeper hurriedly 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 wide-eyed at Ling Fei. "Mama, is he really a cultivator?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Her mother nodded, lowering her head slightly as Ling Fei passed. "Yes, dear. He walks a path few can even dream of."
Ling Fei acknowledged the greetings with a faint nod, his expression calm but inwardly reflective. The respect he received was a stark reminder of his status now.
His wandering eventually brought him to the bustling town square, where caravans of merchants were preparing for departure. Rows of wagons laden with goods stood under the watchful eyes of guards, their weapons gleaming in the sunlight.
He asked around for a while and reached in front of his choosen caravan.
A tall, bearded man in fine yet practical attire approached Ling Fei, bowing with a mix of respect and cautious curiosity. "Greetings, honored cultivator. I am Yuan Feng, leader of this caravan. We are bound for Redwater City. Might I ask if that is your destination as well?"
Ling Fei's eyes flickered thoughtfully. "It is," he said, his tone measured.
Yuan Feng's face lit up with a smile. "Your presence would be an honor, young master. The roads are perilous, but with someone of your caliber among us, our journey would surely be blessed with safety. We would spare no effort to ensure your comfort."
Ling Fei weighed his options. Traveling with the caravan would not only provide protection but also serve as an opportunity to learn about the world beyond his village. Moreover, Redwater City was a crucial waypoint on his path to Emerald Edge Island, where greater opportunities for cultivation awaited.
"I accept," he said simply.
Yuan Feng's bow deepened. "You honor us, young master. Allow me to introduce you to our key members."
Ling Fei was soon introduced to Mei Ling, a sharp-eyed woman responsible for managing the caravan's inventory. She greeted him with a respectful nod and a warm smile. "It's rare for someone of your status to grace a humble caravan like ours. Your presence is truly a blessing."
Old Luo, the caravan's grizzled head guard, stepped forward next. The scar running down his cheek added to his rugged demeanor, but his bow to Ling Fei was deep and sincere. "Young master, it's a privilege to travel under your protection. If there's anything you need, you need only ask."
Finally, there was Little Ping, a wide-eyed boy barely into his teens. He stared at Ling Fei with open admiration, his bow clumsy but heartfelt. "You're amazing, young master! Could you show us your skills someday?"
Ling Fei's lips curved into a faint smile. "Perhaps another time," he replied gently.
That evening, as the caravan camped by a gentle brook outside the town, the merchants prepared a spacious tent for Ling Fei, complete with fine bedding. The respect they showed bordered on reverence, a testament to how rare and esteemed cultivators were in this region.
As he sat by the fire, sharing a modest yet hearty meal with the merchants, the system's familiar voice echoed in his mind.
[Sign-In Quest Activated]
Location: Redwater City
Reward: Primal Qi Formation Manual (Beast Path)
Ling Fei's gaze turned contemplative. The system's quest confirmed that Redwater City was more than just a waypoint—it was a significant milestone on his journey. The promised reward would undoubtedly strengthen his foundation in the Beast Path, bringing him closer to his goals.
Yuan Feng, seated across from Ling Fei, broke the silence. "Young master, if I may ask, why did you choose the Beast Path?"
Ling Fei glanced at him, his voice calm. "The Beast Path offers balance. Its methods align with survival and growth—practicality over glory."
Old Luo, who had been listening quietly, nodded approvingly. "A wise choice, young master. Most young cultivators chase after fame, but you've chosen wisdom. I admire that."
Yuan Feng smiled. "It's an honor to travel with someone of such insight. The world could learn much from your perspective."
As the fire crackled and the stars began to dot the night sky, Ling Fei's thoughts drifted to the road ahead and he smiled slightly.
The next morning, the caravan set off at dawn, the wagons creaking as they rolled along the dusty road. Ling Fei rode alongside them, his sharp eyes scanning the horizon. Each step brought him closer to Redwater City.