The forest was alive with the sounds of birdsong and rustling leaves as Ling Feng made his way toward the next town. He had been traveling for days, his thoughts consumed by the Black Eagle Syndicate and the master’s teachings. As he rounded a bend in the path, he heard the clash of steel and a woman’s cry.

He quickened his pace, emerging into a small clearing where three Black Eagle assassins were closing in on a young woman. She wielded a short sword with surprising skill, but she was clearly outmatched. Without hesitation, Ling Feng drew the Frostmoon Blade and charged.

The assassins turned to face him, their eyes widening at the sight of the legendary blade. Ling Feng’s movements were swift and precise, his blade cutting through the air like a flash of lightning. Within moments, the assassins lay defeated, and the woman slumped to the ground, clutching a wound on her arm.

“Are you all right?” Ling Feng asked, kneeling beside her.

She nodded, her dark eyes filled with gratitude. “Thank you. My name is Liu Ruyan. I’m a healer.”

Ling Feng helped her to her feet. “Why were they after you?”

Ruyan hesitated, then said, “I know too much about their plans. They can’t afford to let me live.”

As they traveled together, Ruyan’s gentle nature and quick wit began to soften Ling Feng’s hardened heart. She treated his wounds, shared stories of her travels, and even taught him a few healing techniques. But one night, as they sat by the fire, Ruyan’s expression grew somber.

“Ling Feng,” she began, her voice trembling, “there’s something I need to tell you. I’m… the daughter of the Black Eagle leader.”

Ling Feng’s heart sank. “What?”

Ruyan’s eyes filled with tears. “I left because I couldn’t bear their cruelty. I want to help you stop them.”

Ling Feng clenched his fists, his mind racing. Could he trust her? Or was this another trap?