Azure Echoes.

Chapter 5: A Journey in Twilight

The damp chill of the shed clung to Zeng's skin as he stirred awake, the scent of something savory tickling his nose. His eyelids fluttered open, revealing the dim light of dawn filtering through the cracks in the wooden walls. The mouthwatering aroma pulled him from the clutches of sleep, and as he sat up, he caught sight of Lian hunched over a small fire, stirring a pot.

"Good morning, Young Master Azure," Lian called over his shoulder, a wry smile playing on his lips. "Hope you enjoyed your restful slumber while I whipped up breakfast."

Zeng rubbed the sleep from his eyes, trying to suppress a grin. "What's cooking?"

"Something resembling breakfast," Lian replied, lifting a bowl filled with a steaming concoction of rice and vegetables. "I had to make do with what little we had. It's not exactly a feast, but it'll keep us going."

Zeng accepted the bowl, marveling at how Lian had managed to create a meal that smelled better than anything he'd had in days. He took a tentative bite, surprised by the warmth and flavor that burst on his tongue. "Not bad, Mr.Physician," he said, genuine appreciation creeping into his voice.

"Just a modest attempt at culinary arts," Lian replied, feigning humility. "Next time, I'll add some spices to make it worthy of the esteemed Azure"

After finishing their meal, they began to gather their belongings which seemed to have brought over. Zeng winced slightly as he adjusted the satchel, and Lian caught the subtle grimace. "You should take it easy, you know. Your injury isn't going to magically heal itself."

"I'll manage," Zeng insisted, though the slight hitch in his step suggested otherwise.

As they set off on foot, the sun climbed higher in the sky, casting dappled shadows across the dirt path. The journey felt heavier than before, each step a reminder of Zeng's wound and the urgency of their mission.

"By the way," Lian began, glancing sideways at Zeng, "what was in that box the black-robed figure stole?"

Zeng hesitated, the playful banter between them faltering. "It's... important for the safety of the kingdom," he finally said, his voice steady but laced with reluctance.

Lian raised an eyebrow. "Important, huh? Sounds mysterious. Are we talking about some secret weapon or a treasure map?"

"It's nothing you need to worry about," Zeng replied curtly, but Lian could see the tension in his jaw.

"Come on. You can trust me," Lian prodded. "I mean, I did save your life, didn't I? That should count for something."

Zeng glanced at Lian, the corner of his lips quirking up as he sighed. "It's an organization... a dark underworld group known as the Black Veil. They're... ruthless and skilled assassins. They'll stop at nothing to get what they want."

"Black Veil?" Lian echoed, an unexpected familiarity in his tone. "You know a lot about them for someone who just stumbled into this mess."

Zeng paused, pondering his next words. "Let's just say I've had my share of encounters with the underworld."

Lian studied him for a moment, sensing a story beneath the surface but unwilling to press further. "Well, I'll keep an eye out for any masked assassins on our journey. Just be careful with them; they're far too dangerous"

Zeng looked at Lian, surprised. "You know about them?"

Lian shrugged, his expression casual. "It's common knowledge in certain circles."

But Zeng could see something in Lian's eyes—a glimmer of deeper understanding, something that hinted at a past not easily forgotten.

Zeng felt a pang of curiosity but held back his questions, sensing that Lian wasn't ready to share more. They continued down the path, the sun now casting long shadows as the day wore on.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the path in twilight, they finally arrived at a bustling town. Lanterns flickered to life, illuminating the streets crowded with vendors and townsfolk. The sounds of laughter and chatter filled the air, creating a vibrant tapestry of life.

"Looks like we made it just in time for the evening festivities," Lian remarked, taking in the lively atmosphere.

"Where do you plan to stay?" Zeng asked, scanning the area for a suitable place.

Lian's brow furrowed. "I suppose we'll have to find an inn. And since your pouch of coins seems to have wandered off during our little scuffle, that leaves me to pay for the room."

Zeng's expression shifted from playful to defensive. "I was fighting for my life, not counting coins!"

"Right, because you were doing such a great job of it," Lian shot back, a teasing glint in his eyes.

"I didn't ask for this," Zeng retorted, but there was a hint of a smile tugging at his lips.

"Just admit it. You owe me now," Lian said, feigning seriousness. "I expect at least double—or even triple—the payment in coin."

"Fine," Zeng sighed dramatically. "But you're buying dinner too."

"Deal."

They finally approached a quaint inn adorned with colorful lanterns. As they entered, Lian walked up to the innkeeper and negotiated a room. He handed over a few coins, all while Zeng stood nearby, arms crossed and looking somewhat sheepish.

As they climbed the stairs to their room, the air was thick with the unsaid tension between them. Lian turned to Zeng, a smirk lingering on his lips. "You know, for a young master, you're quite the handful."

Zeng smirked back, stepping closer. "And for a lowly physician, you're surprisingly capable."

Lian rolled his eyes, but the corners of his mouth betrayed him. "Let's just get some rest. Tomorrow's another day of earning some coin."

As they settled into their shared room, the playful atmosphere lingered, and soon they drifted off to sleep, the quiet of the night settling around them.