The outpost was still active, but the people were anxious.
Loggers and merchants huddled inside their wooden houses, peeking out through shuttered windows. When they saw Lin Mu's group, many came out to greet them, relief on their faces.
"Are you the Wandering Righteous Blades?" one of the foremen asked, bowing deeply. "We were told the empire might send someone to investigate, but you arrived even faster than the patrols."
Daoist Chu had already sent word ahead of their arrival, to make things easier.
Lin Mu gave a calm nod. "We are here to investigate the cause of this cold. For now, stop all logging activity and tell everyone to remain indoors. This weather is not natural."
The man hesitated for a moment but then quickly nodded. "Understood! I will spread the word immediately."
With their growing reputation, Lin Mu and his companions did not need to explain much. Within minutes, messengers were sent out, and the entire outpost fell into quiet lockdown.
