The Inn Encounter (1)

//Last Updated on June 22, 2024

***

After a long journey through the forest, Liu Feng and his companion, Zhang Yan, arrived in front of the Mint Village gate around noon.

As Liu Feng and his companions approached the Mint Village gate, he noticed a horse-drawn carriage speeding into the village. The horses were whinnying in fear, and the driver was desperately trying to keep them under control.

This alarmed him, and some villagers rushed towards the carriage to stop the terrified horses.

As he approached, Liu Feng noticed that the carriage was covered in cuts and bruises, that the horses were sweating profusely, and that the driver was badly shaken and struggling to catch his breath. He could tell the driver and the horses had been through something traumatic.

"Can you tell me what happened?" Liu Feng inquired, concerned.

The driver mumbled, "On our way back from Gale City, we were attacked by some wild emerald cicadas. They were all over the place, and we barely made it back here. This is unusual, but we must warn the villagers and take precautions before they attack again."

When Liu Feng heard the news, his heart sank. He knew he had to go to Gale City, but he couldn't put it off indefinitely.

'Anyway, let me first get to the village.' He knew there was nothing he could do to solve the problem right away, so he went to the village entrance after thanking the driver for the information.

They soon arrived in the village and encountered the guards. They appeared to be on edge as a result of the cicada problem. He wanted to learn more about the surrounding area. He knew the best way to get it was from them, so Liu Feng handed over some silver coins to the two guards and requested their help.

The guards agreed to give them the necessary information and told them about the village, its people, the Green Jade Inn, and the surrounding areas.

Liu Feng and Zhang Yan arrived at Green Jade Inn after gathering the necessary information.

The tall guard, Guard Li advised them that this is the best inn in their village and that they should mention his name when they meet the owners.

They soon arrived at the inn, where they decided to rest and eat.

The inn was a two-story structure composed of robust wooden beams and painted a beautiful green colour.

The first floor was a popular restaurant where residents and visitors alike could have a tasty dinner while keeping up with the latest headlines. The noises of clattering dishes, lively conversation and the aromas of cooked food filled the air.

When they arrived, a cheerful girl greeted them with a warm and inviting face and bowed nicely.

"Greetings, esteemed guests. I'm Mei Lin, and I'm honoured to be at your service. Welcome to Green Jade Inn. How may I help you?"

Her hands were the first thing Liu Feng noticed. Although both hands were well concealed, they bore some basic marks of martial arts practitioners.

He was drawn to her and determined to keep a careful eye on her. Liu Feng could tell she wasn't some weak girl just by looking at her. Although her outer personality displayed otherwise.

Soon after, both of them came to the reception, followed by Mei Lin, where Liu Feng and Zhang Yan met the Mu couple, the owners of the establishment.

After booking a three-day stay, they went upstairs to their separate rooms.

Guests could stay in one of several comfortable rooms. Each room was decorated simply yet nicely, with modest furnishings and an adjoining bathroom. Large windows let in plenty of light and provided views of the nearby village.

'Huh???'

When Liu Feng entered his room, he had multiple question marks on his face.

'Attached bathroom in this type of setting?'

'Well, this is probably easier for me.'

He was amazed by the cleanliness and comfort of the inn, as well as the owner's friendly welcome, and was finally looking forward to a well-deserved quiet night's rest after being in this world for a very long time.

Liu Feng examined a mirror on the wall after noticing it. He couldn't help but admire his well-toned physique and well-defined muscles.

Despite his messy appearance, his dark blue eyes shone out against his black hair, and he had an above-average overall appearance. Although he was not the most handsome person, he felt satisfied with his appearance.

Liu Feng felt rejuvenated and ready to eat after his warm bath. After meeting with Zhang Yan, he came downstairs to the inn's restaurant, where he was greeted by the warm and welcoming aroma of freshly cooked meals. People were enjoying their meals and engaging in vibrant conversation in the restaurant.

Mei Lin greeted Liu Feng at the reception desk with a pleasant smile and asked if she could assist him in any way. When Liu Feng mentioned that he was eager to eat something delicious, Mei Lin immediately recommended some of their most popular dishes.

Liu Feng took Mei Lin's advice and ordered a dish of roasted pork and veggies for each of them, along with a steaming hot bowl of rice. He took a seat at one of the tables and eagerly began his dinner. The lunch was fantastic and hit the spot, leaving Liu Feng full and delighted.

As he ate, Liu Feng couldn't help but notice the inn's welcoming environment. The owners, a cheerful couple with their children, were always accessible to converse with their guests and make them feel at ease. Liu Feng felt at home in the inn, and he was grateful to have found such a nice place to stay.

***

Liu Feng left his room later that night to go for a stroll. He was wandering around the inn when he noticed a person practising dagger throws in a remote place. That individual moved with fluidity, making precise and lethal movements. Liu Feng was shocked when he looked at her face and realised that his guess was not far off.

The presence of another person beside her startled her. She turned around and drew her daggers, ready to protect herself. She calmed down and lowered her weapon when she saw Liu Feng standing there.

"What brings you here at this hour?" she inquired with a cold and curious voice.

Liu Feng raised his hands in a non-threatening gesture and smiled. "As you know, I am a travelling merchant. I'm staying here at the inn. I couldn't help but notice your impressive skills. May I ask why you are working here in the inn despite having such skills?"

"What does it have to do anything with you?", she responded, her tone guarded.

Liu Feng chuckled. "Just curious, that's all. You're very skilled with them. Have you been practising for long?"

Mei Lin smiled, a glint of pride in her eyes. "Long enough to know what I'm doing, but there's always potential for improvement, and I know there's always someone better than me," she remarked, pointing her draggers to Liu Feng. So, Mr. Fake Merchant, what brings you to our inn?"

Liu Feng raised his brows, he recognised her concern and decided to be truthful with her. "I'm sorry if I raised any suspicions but I assure you, I'm just an ordinary merchant travelling from place to place selling my things right now, but I do practise martial arts."

Mei Lin's gaze softened as she examined Liu Feng's face. She sheathed her daggers and nodded, "Right now, you say? Okay, I believe you. But I advise you to be careful. Don't try to sneak up on me again."

Mei Lin tilted her head slightly and glanced up and down at Liu Feng. "So, what do you want?" she inquired, sheathing her dagger.

Liu Feng glanced at Mei Lin, his eyes shining with respect for her abilities. "Well, Mei Lin, I was wondering whether you'd be interested in accompanying me on my travels. I've heard numerous stories about roadside bandits and thieves, particularly the infamous Green Python bandits, and I could use someone like you to defend my group and my valuables."

Liu Feng disliked having too many people around him, yet he believed she was wasting her time by staying at the inn. She was also skilled at disguising this current aspect of her personality. She was the usual friendly girl next door in the morning, but right now she was cold and calculative, much like a hunter.

Mei Lin arched her eyebrow, taken aback by Liu Feng's request. "Would you like me to be your bodyguard? But, as you are aware, travelling with a merchant can be dangerous."

Liu Feng nodded, acknowledging her concerns. "I recognise the risks, but I have faith in your talents. And I am willing to offer you a fair wage for your skills. Don't you want to explore the world and spread your fame?"

Mei Lin paused for a time before returning her gaze towards Liu Feng. "And what if I refuse?"