Chapter 209: Return Beneath Clouded Skies
Lang Yao walked through the quiet forest, his steps steady but his chest heavy with unspoken thoughts. The woods had lost their sound long ago. There was no usual sound of the forest’s beasts or insects, as most of them had already been killed by scouting teams on the outskirts of the forest.
Only the soft sound of his boots pressing against the damp earth accompanied him. The low branches brushed against his sleeves as if trying to hold him back, but he kept moving, pretending the cold mist curling around his neck did not bother him.
He did not hurry. There was no need to rush. He already knew what would be waiting for him when he returned to the East River Base.
The large outer wall of the East River Base slowly appeared through the fog, its stone surface stained from a year of battles and the smoke that often clung to the air. The sky above him was still covered in thick gray clouds that refused to move, leaving the day feeling dull and heavy.
Lang Yao’s steps slowed as he approached the gate, his fingers brushing lightly over the old scar near his ribs, which had started to ache again during his long journey back. The wound had already healed, but it throbbed as if to remind him of his failure.
He stood quietly in front of the gate, lowering his head just a little, and lifted one hand to signal the guards.
The guards stationed there narrowed their eyes when they first saw him. One of them took a step forward, his hand resting near his weapon, as if unsure whether Lang Yao should be welcomed or kept out. But when they recognized him clearly, their faces slowly relaxed, though they still looked cautious. One guard’s voice broke the silence, low and careful.
"You came back alone."
Lang Yao kept his voice calm and steady as he replied, "I have urgent news for Lord Xun."