Although it was only a forest outpost called a town, Blackstone Town did indeed look remarkably prosperous.
Its streets were broad, its buildings tightly packed and solidly constructed. Black basalt formed its sturdy walls and buildings.
Perhaps to guard against soul beast attacks, everything here looked hard and dependable.
Patrolling Spirit Hall guards were everywhere along the streets, while shops lined both sides, selling everything from medicinal herbs to mineral materials.
Of course, the most common sight here was the motley assortment of soul-hunting mercenary bands, dragons and snakes mingling together.
Each loudly touted their strength, soliciting soul masters who intended to enter Star Dou Forest to hunt for spirit rings.
"..."
As Xiao Wu stared at the Spirit Hall guards walking through Blackstone Town, deep hatred showed in her eyes.
"All right, Xiao Wu. Let's find somewhere to stay first. It's already too late today. We'll enter Star Dou Forest tomorrow."
Patting the girl's shoulder and watching her quickly compose her expression, Lin Yue lowered his voice and gently counseled her:
"Spirit Hall's rank-and-file guards haven't done anything wrong. If your mother died in that soul-hunting battle, Bibi Dong was the one chiefly responsible. It all happened for the sake of her spirit ring."
The girl said nothing, merely following Lin Yue and Tang Yin into an inn beside the street.
Along the way, conflict crossed Xiao Wu's face, as though she were fiercely struggling to prepare herself.
Only after she followed the two into the privacy of their room did she finally muster her courage and tug at the hem of Lin Yue's clothes.
Having steeled herself, Xiao Wu lifted her head, her face full of hope, and spoke softly to Lin Yue.
"Brother Lin, my mother died because of Bibi Dong. Would... would you help me?"
Having