Chapter 15: Shadow Wolves
The dusty road stretched before them, winding its way through valleys and over gentle hills under the soft light of dawn. Feng Jiao Xue remained near the back of the group, her expression unreadable as she observed the other adventurers from a distance.
She preferred the quiet solitude of being on her own. Feng Jiao Xue stroked the silver mane of her stead and friend.
"Ngrough~" Yin Xiao responded steadily throding behind the group with Feng Jiao Xue sitting on his back.
Ahead of her, the group was already breaking into conversations and laughter. Several pairs walked side by side, their voices carrying back to her on the morning breeze.
Wei Jian, a broad-shouldered cultivator with a blunt sense of humor, led the way with a boisterous laugh. His voice was loud enough to keep any nearby wildlife at bay, as he shared exaggerated tales of his past battles.
To his right, Chen Rong, a nimble swordsman known for his sharp wit kept pace. His gaze occasionally darted back toward Feng Jiao Xue with a flicker of curiosity. Though compared to other spiritaual beasts, Yin Xiao cannot be considered that rare or eye catching but the innate ability of his kind and their fur coat and beautiful, enchanting mane does catch the eyes of nobles to the point of leading their kind to near extinction and as his owner, he is cannot be faulted for his curiousity to the background of said beast's contractual master.
Sensing his gaze, Feng Jiao Xue's eye flickered to him and he quickly refocused on the path when she met his eyes.
Li Mei and Xu Fan, two younger cultivators, trailed a few paces behind. Their banter and light-hearted exchanges filled the silence, giving the journey a touch of levity.
Just a step behind them walked Mei Lin, a fiery-tempered girl with a mane of red hair tied back, her confident stride keeping pace easily with the others. Mei Lin's eyes were sharp, and she wore a smirk that suggested she was ready to prove herself at any moment.
Despite the casual atmosphere, Feng Jiao Xue could feel the tension beneath the surface. Each adventurer kept one hand close to their weapon, eyes sharp and attentive to the road and the forests on either side.
Those around here are mostly casually talking to each other. Some discreetely gathering information veiled by friendly conversation but not a single person has their guard down.