Yun Che pointed into the depths of the forest. "If you don't believe me, you can come in with me and take a look. Who hid the Heaven-Mending Pearl, and whether the Mine Foreman did it-won't that all be clear once we get there?"
Shen Qing fell silent for a moment, then put away her Short Blade and nodded. "Fine, I'll go with you. If I find out you're lying, I'll arrest you and hand you over to the Law Hall, even if it means breaking the rules."
"Of course. I have nothing to fear."
Yun Che smiled, turned, and led the way deeper into the forest. Divine Martial had already circled back from behind and was crouched on his shoulder, licking his paws. He cast Shen Qing a sidelong glance full of disdain.
The two followed the forest path for just under an hour before the view finally opened up, revealing a small hollow surrounded by mountains. At its very center stood a Mountain God Temple that had been abandoned for years. The faint spiritual fragrance was drifting out of the temple.
"This is the place."
Yun Che stopped, his fingertips resting on the sword at his waist. Shen Qing tightened her grip on her Short Blade as well. They exchanged a glance, then crept toward the Mountain God Temple.
They pushed open the door. Dust covered the altar, and only a small hidden compartment lay behind the offering table. It was unlocked and opened with a gentle tug. Inside lay a blue-green pearl the size of a pigeon's egg, its surface shimmering with faint spiritual light. It was none other than the Heaven-Mending Pearl, rumored to draw forth the spiritual energy of the earth veins.
Shen Qing's eyes lit up. Just as she was about to step forward