The merchant caravan finally passed through the towering layers of earthen barricades. The path ahead slowly unfolded, and the sky seemed to brighten.
Suddenly, strange beams of light appeared from the heavens—an emerald green glow intertwined with streaks of golden radiance swept across the convoy. The sight made Khanh widen his eyes in curiosity, his gaze fixed ahead.
Before them stretched a vast forest, its towering trees bearing unfamiliar foliage, vibrant and otherworldly. The air felt dense, carrying a sweet fragrance that lingered with an undertone of hidden danger.
The driver at the front spoke up, his tone calm yet tinged with caution:
"We've officially entered the central region of Dai Long. From here on, things will only get more dangerous. You three should stay alert."
Khanh furrowed his brows, voicing his doubt:
"Dangerous? But isn't the central region where the strongest LINH Masters gather? Shouldn't it be safer?"
The sound of hooves striking the earth echoed steadily, joined by the smooth sliding of wheels gliding over ice, forming a rhythmic cadence that filled the silence.
The driver did not answer right away. Only after a pause did he reply, voice measured:
"We've been on the road nearly an entire day. Up ahead lies the rest station—time to stop and recover. I've been sustaining LINH all day, after all."
Hearing this, Minh Triet gave a slight nod, admiration flickering in his eyes.
"Indeed… to maintain even basic LINH continuously for a whole day, keeping both focus and stamina—truly impressive."
Le Vy immediately spoke up, her expression showing fatigue:
"At the next station… will there be an inn? Or at least a bath? It's been hot since yesterday. I'd like to feel clean again."
Minh Triet smirked, seizing the chance to tease her:
"Careful with that. What if bandits burst in while you're bathing? Haha."
"You—!" Le Vy shot him a glare, her cheeks flushed with irritation, while Minh Triet only leaned back smugly, clearly enjoying himself.
Khanh could only sigh, quietly observing the two continue their endless bickering, seemingly unaffected by the exhaustion of the journey.
The carriage gradually slowed, wheels rolling to a halt.
The golden glow of dusk spilled across the forest canopy, painting everything in shades of amber. At last, the merchant caravan had reached the rest stop—perched at the border just outside the central region of Dai Long.
The station resembled a grand inn. The main hall below served as a bustling tavern, its interior adorned with sturdy wooden tables interlaced with polished glass, arranged in elegant patterns. Glimmering LINH stones lit the space with a soft brilliance.
The atmosphere was lively, almost overwhelming—like twenty merchant caravans had all gathered here at once. Laughter mingled with the clatter of bowls and cups, resonating through the air. The savory aroma of freshly cooked dishes wafted across the room, enveloping all who entered.
It was a place that felt both warm and chaotic, like a miniature hub of commerce nestled precariously at the edge of a perilous forest.