Rationality (Part 1)

The convoy gradually moved farther away. Along the way, they passed the forest beside the Mirror Profound Sect, where all remained calm and peaceful, as though no unrest had occurred.

Yet Lin Xin could tell from the Red Ridge Gate members stationed nearby that a tremendous upheaval had already taken place here.

After traveling nonstop for three days, they finally bypassed the Mirror Profound Sect.

Ahead lay territory once governed by the Mirror Profound Sect, forestland meant for its disciples' trials. Now that the sect had been destroyed, this place was likely abandoned as well.

There was not a soul in the forest, and the convoy's slow passage through it sent chills down everyone's spines.

"How much farther until Naxi?"

Lin Xin casually asked Xiao Liu.

"Sir, probably another five days. So long as we make it through, there shouldn't be any problems," Xiao Liu answered quietly as he vigilantly watched their surroundings.

Everyone in the convoy remained silent. No one spoke loudly, as if afraid of disturbing some savage beast lurking in the forest.

"Five days?" Lin Xin had a rough estimate in mind.

By noon, the sky had turned gray and dim.

The convoy stopped to light fires, cook, and rest.

Lin Xin swung down from his horse, intending to pull out some dry rations from his bundle and chew on them.

"Sir, this is for you." Xiao Liu quickly brought over a steaming bowl of meat soup from the carriage ahead. Mushrooms, ginger, and scallions had been added to it, and its fragrance made one's mouth water.

Lin Xin accepted it.

"Thank you."

"You're a scholar, sir, and you're ill besides. Your body is weak. If you eat poorly, I'm afraid you won't even be able to keep traveling later. You need to take care of yourself."