Chapter 26
The group trudged through the dense forest, the mist curling around their legs like ghostly tendrils. The path was uneven, scattered with roots and stones that made every step a careful calculation. Their breaths puffed visibly in the crisp, cool air, and fatigue hung over them like a damp cloak.
At the front, Han Qing surveyed the terrain with his usual sharpness, his sword hand never straying far from its hilt. His expression was grim, his sharp eyes darting from side to side as he scanned for danger.
"We’re close now," he said, his voice low but steady.
Behind him, the crown prince nodded, his face pale but determined. "Let’s keep moving," he said, glancing back at the rest of the group. His words carried a quiet authority that kept the others focused.
Feng Jiao Xue walked near the middle of the group, keeping her presence inconspicuous. She adjusted her pace to match the others, her cold expression unreadable as she silently observed their surroundings. Her hand hovered near her weapon, but she let the others take the lead in voicing their concerns.
"I don’t like this place," Mei Lin murmured, her red hair standing out against the gray mist. She clutched her on her weapon, her steps hesitant. "It feels... too quiet."
"Quiet is better than what’s likely waiting for us inside," one of the other cultivators muttered, his voice carrying a nervous edge.
"Enough," Han Qing snapped, his tone brooking no argument. He gestured toward a rocky outcropping ahead, barely visible through the shifting mist. "That’s it, the cave. Stay sharp."
The group moved closer, their pace slowing as the cave entrance came into view. It was larger than any of them had expected, a dark maw that seemed to swallow the mist itself. Jagged rocks framed the opening like teeth, and the faint sound of dripping water echoed from within.
"So, this is it?" Mei Lin asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Unless you know of another ominous looking cave that houses rare herbs," one of the cultivators said dryly, earning him a glare from Han Qing.