The village was built in a hidden canyon, surrounded by brown volcanic rock. Several steaming hot springs were scattered about, magically absorbing the area's heat and maintaining a relatively normal temperature. It was so temperate that Zhou Chen even spotted a few fields of crops.
Zhou Chen dismounted and walked toward the village. His appearance immediately drew the villagers' attention. A few shouts rang out, and a dozen or so villagers rushed out, armed with swords, spears, and clubs.
"Don't be alarmed! I'm an outsider. I just happened to find this place after falling from a cliff," Zhou Chen quickly explained, trying to show he meant no harm. He also presented identification documents issued by the Magic Academy and the Holy Hall Church, but none of the villagers came forward to take them.
"An outsider?" The villagers exchanged glances, their hostility unwavering.
