Chapter 39: Place for the strong

The gates of Northern Moon loomed ahead, a monolithic barrier of iron and stone that seemed to scrape the heavens due it its massive structure. Spiked battlements lined its edges, and a faint shimmer of protective formations radiated across its surface—a testament to the powerful cultivators who guarded this city. The closer the caravan approached, the more Jiang Feng could feel the oppressive weight of the city's energy. It was as if the land itself pulsed with vitality, its presence brushing against his senses.

Around him, the villagers whispered in awe and unease, their earlier exhaustion momentarily forgotten. For many of them, this was the largest settlement they had ever laid eyes on. While some of the warriors had ventured out before and were familiar with the sight, the same couldn't be said for the ordinary villagers. Lacking the strength to protect themselves beyond the safety of their village, they had never dared to travel this far.

Northern Moon wasn't just a city; it was a fortress of influence, the beating heart of the region. Legends spoke of ancient bloodlines residing within its walls, families whose power rivaled even that of smaller sects. Jiang Feng remained silent, his sharp eyes scanning the massive gates and the guards stationed atop them, their silver armor gleaming under the midday sun. These weren't ordinary soldiers—they were Essence Condensation cultivators, their disciplined postures speaking volumes about their strength and the strength of Northern Moon.

As they reached the base of the gates, a low rumble echoed through the air, followed by the sound of grinding stone. The gates creaked open slowly, revealing the sprawling expanse of Northern Moon within. For a moment, Jiang Feng stood still, his heart beating faster. The city was a cacophony of life and movement. Merchant stalls lined the streets, their brightly colored awnings fluttering in the wind. Cultivators of various levels strolled with purpose, their robes marked by symbols of sects and clans Jiang Feng didn't recognize. Above it all, towering pagodas and massive mansions stretched toward the sky, their grandeur a stark contrast to the humble Lin Village and Xianyang he had left behind, where his father once lived.

"Don't get distracted," Lin Rou said, his voice cutting through Jiang Feng's thoughts. "This isn't a place where you can let your guard down. Remember, in Northern Moon, strength is everything. Those without it are just pawns to be used—or worse, discarded." His tone was grim, but his gaze softened slightly as he glanced at Jiang Feng. "Stick close to me and Father until you get your bearings."

Jiang Feng nodded, but his mind churned. The dragon within him stirred faintly, its presence a constant reminder of the dangerous secret he carried. He had resolved to lay low, as Lin Rou and Lin Moyi had urged, but Jiang Feng couldn't ignore the feeling gnawing at his core. This city wasn't just an obstacle; it was an opportunity. Every step forward in this sprawling metropolis brought him closer to unraveling his heritage, mastering the draconic aura, and forging a path to true power.

The caravan began moving again, blending into the bustling throng of Northern Moon. Despite the overwhelming sights and sounds, Jiang Feng's thoughts remained focused. Strength is everything, he repeated to himself, the words etched into his mind. For now, he would observe, adapt, and grow stronger in the shadows. When the time came, he would let the world know the strength of the dragon that lay dormant within him and the shocking craftsmanship of the blacksmiths.

-

The vastness of Northern Moon was staggering, stretching for hundreds of miles in every direction. Its sheer size was almost unbelievable, considering it lay within the heart of the Obsidian Woodlands—a treacherous expanse overrun with demonic beasts and rogue creatures. The caravan moved through the bustling streets under Captain Situ's guidance, their presence drawing immediate attention.

The crowded streets parted as they passed, a sea of faces turning to watch. Some onlookers were curious, their eyes filled with wonder or mild interest. Others, however, gazed with pity, their expressions tinged with sympathy. There were also those whose lips curled into sneers, their disdain and mockery plain for all to see. In a city as vast as Northern Moon, where all manner of people gathered, such reactions were expected. It was a place ruled by the strong, where kindness was a rare commodity and power dictated one's survival.

The group passed towering structures, their grandeur unmatched by anything Jiang Feng had ever seen. Massive buildings with intricate carvings stretched skyward, while the hum of trade and chatter created a cacophony of life. Jiang Feng couldn't help but marvel at it all. Even as the people stopped to gawk at the caravan, their reactions seemed oddly routine—this type of spectacle must have been a familiar occurrence.

"Does Northern Moon often take in outsiders like this?" Jiang Feng asked, turning to Lin Rou. The young blacksmith's voice betrayed his curiosity and lack of understanding about the wider world.

Lin Rou glanced at him, his expression contemplative as he answered. "Northern Moon is just one of several major cities in the Obsidian Woodlands. It's been here for who knows how many generations. Over time, its power grew, and it became a sanctuary for millions. Many smaller villages, like ours, were founded by former citizens of Northern Moon who sought to expand its reach. But when those settlements failed to prosper, they were left to fend for themselves."

Lin Rou's gaze shifted toward his father, who was speaking quietly with Captain Situ at the head of the group. His expression grew stern as he continued, "That's why the Lin Village is considered a lesser branch of Northern Moon. We fall under their protection, but there's a price. If we return to the city, the village will cease to exist. We'll become part of Northern Moon, forced to work for its benefit and live by its rules."

He paused, pulling out a small bottle of alcohol and taking a long drink.

"Is that really such a bad thing? This place seems incredible," Jiang Feng said, his tone reflecting his awe and inexperience.

Lin Rou laughed, the sound a mixture of amusement and weariness. "Ah, youth. It's not a bad thing to be naïve sometimes," he said, shaking his head. After another sip, his tone turned darker. "But let me tell you something. As newcomers here—weak ones at that—we'll be at the bottom of the hierarchy. Laws exist, sure, but they're only enforced for the weak. The strong take what they want. Families could lose their daughters. Men could vanish without a trace. Resources will be seized by force if we're unable to defend them. In a place like this, if you don't have the power to protect what's yours, it will be taken."

Jiang Feng fell silent, absorbing Lin Rou's words. They had traveled for hours through the city without him realizing it, the immensity of Northern Moon distracting him at every turn. Even after such a long journey, they hadn't come close to reaching the city's edge. Finally, they stopped in front of a vast, empty courtyard.

Captain Situ dismounted, gesturing toward Lin Moyi who bowing deeply. Turning to the gathered villagers, Lin Moyi's commanding voice rang out. "This will be your new home. This is the Lin Courtyard, and it is large enough to house everyone. Unpack your belongings and get some rest. We'll reconvene once everything has been settled. Lin Rou, you're in charge while I'm away."

Lin Moyi gave the villagers a reassuring smile before departing with Captain Situ and his squad.

"Where are they going?" Jiang Feng asked, a slight frown crossing his face.

"To report to the Zhen Family," Lin Rou replied, his expression darkening. "There's also the matter of Kia Mundi from Poor Man's Corner. That issue can't wait any longer."

With that, Lin Rou turned and stepped through the gates of the courtyard, leaving Jiang Feng to follow closely behind, his mind racing with questions about the challenges that lay ahead.

******

If you like this chapter, remember to vote or leave a comment- stay blessed!