Chapter eleven

He had stolen one of their horses, this time taking the correct route as he kept his bag close, controlling the horse with determined precision.

Darkness had already fallen, and all he wanted now was to reach the village and have a proper night's rest.

Riding for what felt like hours through the dimly lit path, Luo Feng finally saw the faint lights of the village in the distance. Relief washed over him as he urged the horse forward, eager to reach the safety and comfort of an inn.

Upon entering the village, he noticed the quaint charm of the traditional Chinese architecture. Lanterns hung from the eaves of buildings, casting a warm, inviting glow over the cobblestone streets. Villagers moved about, some closing up shops for the night while others mingled in small groups, sharing stories and laughter.

Luo Feng dismounted and led the horse through the village, his eyes scanning for an inn. He found one nestled between a teahouse and a small market. The inn's wooden sign swung gently in the evening breeze, the characters for "Peaceful Rest" etched into it.

He tied the horse to a post outside and walked in, the warmth of the interior and the smell of cooked food greeting him immediately. The innkeeper, a middle-aged man with a kind face, looked up from behind the counter.

"Welcome, traveler," the innkeeper said, smiling. "You look weary. How may I assist you?"

"I need a room for the night," Luo Feng replied, placing a few coins on the counter.

The innkeeper nodded and handed him a key. "Second floor, first room on the right. Please make yourself comfortable. If you need anything, just let me know."

Luo Feng thanked the man and made his way upstairs. His room was small but cozy, with a simple bed, a wooden table, and a basin of water for washing. He set his bag down, making sure the tome was secure, and then removed his cloak, folding it neatly and placing it on a chair.

After washing up, he felt a little more refreshed. He pulled out some of the food he had packed and ate quickly, his thoughts already turning to the next steps of his journey. He knew he couldn't stay in one place for too long, especially after the encounter with the bandits.

With his stomach full and his mind slightly at ease, Luo Feng lay down on the bed, the events of the day catching up with him. He closed his eyes, letting the sounds of the village lull him into a much-needed sleep, knowing that tomorrow would bring new challenges and opportunities.

But just as his eyes closed, he heard a sudden noise outside his room. His eyes snapped open, and he sat up, scrunching his face in irritation at the disturbance that shattered his brief moment of peace.

The noise grew louder, and he quickly realized it was the sound of a struggle. Curiosity and a sense of duty compelled him to investigate. He quietly opened the door and peered down the dimly lit hallway.

At the end of the corridor, two men were harassing a woman. She struggled against their grip, fear evident on her face. Without hesitation, Luo Feng strode forward, his presence commanding despite his frail, pale, and weak appearance. His rich clothing added to his imposing demeanor, though his body looked anything but threatening.

"Hey, leave her alone," he said, his voice calm yet filled with authority.

The men turned to face him, their expressions shifting from amusement to skepticism. They saw a young man who appeared delicate and weak, yet the dark energy radiating from him was undeniable. One of them sneered, but there was hesitation in his eyes.

"Who do you think you are?" one of the men spat, trying to sound tough.

"I'm someone you don't want to mess with," Luo Feng replied coolly. He took a step closer, his dark energy intensifying, making the air feel thick and heavy.

The men exchanged uneasy glances. They might not have known exactly who he was, but they could tell he wasn't someone to be trifled with. Slowly, they released the woman and backed away.

"Fine, have it your way," the second man muttered, and the two of them slunk off into the night.

The woman, now free, turned to face Luo Feng. In the dim light, he could see her more clearly. She was stunningly beautiful, with delicate features framed by long, flowing hair. Her eyes, wide with gratitude, sparkled even in the darkness, and her lips, though trembling, were full and inviting. She was the epitome of grace and beauty, her presence captivating.

Despite her initial impression of him as a rich young master, she realized there was more to him than met the eye. This realization could be beneficial for her business.

"Thank you," she said, her voice soft and trembling. "I don't know what I would have done if you hadn't come."

Luo Feng gave her a small nod. "It's alright. Are you hurt?"

"No, just frightened," she replied. She took a deep breath, regaining her composure. "My name is Lian Hua. I work at the Jade Blossom teahouse. If you ever need a place to relax and some company, please come by. Ask for me, and I'll make sure you're well taken care of."

Luo Feng's curiosity was piqued.While primarily a place for drinking tea and socializing, some teahouses also offered entertainment and female companionship,where men went to be entertained and accompanied by women. "Thank you, Lian Hua. I'll keep that in mind."

She gave him a grateful smile before hurrying away, casting one last look of appreciation over her shoulder. Luo Feng watched her go, then returned to his room, the encounter leaving him more alert than before. The village, it seemed, held more than just a place to rest. It was full of secrets and potential allies, all of which could prove useful in his quest for revenge.

As he settled back into bed, he felt a strange satisfaction. Not only had he helped someone in need, but he had also reaffirmed his strength and resolve. Tomorrow, he would continue his journey, but for now, he would allow himself to rest, knowing he was on the right path.