Chapter 184: 184: Exploring the Valley
As Ye Fei attempted to climb out of the valley, he quickly realized something unusual. Each attempt to ascend seemed met with an inexplicable force, making him feel as if he were carrying an immense weight. Reluctantly, he had to retreat back down to the valley floor.
While he managed to reassure himself, the thought lingered: what if he couldn't leave at all? Determined not to get trapped, he immediately returned to the cave he had entered through.
Reaching the slope he had used earlier, Ye Fei was relieved to find that the strange force was absent here. Confidently, he made his way back to the valley floor. Assured now that he could leave anytime he chose, he decided to fully explore this mysterious place. It was an area filled with charm and untamed beauty, the kind of secluded paradise he might one day share with his loved ones.
This hidden valley wasn't overly large, perhaps around twenty square kilometers. Ye Fei noticed various animals here, all small and seemingly unique to the area. Some looked like rabbits but with longer tails, while others resembled squirrels, though their tails were less bushy.
These creatures, never having encountered humans, displayed no fear of him. Several approached him curiously, examining him as if he were an unusual new arrival.
Amused, Ye Fei reached out and picked up a small creature resembling a squirrel. It perched comfortably on his shoulder, emitting cheerful chirps. As if envious, other animals leaped towards him, some even managing to land on his shoulders. With a small entourage of these curious creatures, Ye Fei wandered happily through the valley.
In the heart of the valley, he stumbled upon a small lake, perhaps a hundred meters across. The water was exceptionally clear, revealing smooth stones at the bottom. Covered in dirt from the cave, he eagerly dove into the cool lake. Instantly, a refreshing sensation washed over him.
The effect was more than just physical; he felt his internal energy circulation double in speed, similar to the benefits he gained from his unique training. Reflecting on this, he realized that this lake might hold benefits not only for him but also for those he cared about, enhancing their cultivation without the demanding dual practice.
Ye Fei spent several hours swimming and enjoying the water. By the time he climbed out, dusk was settling over the valley, and the small animals had dispersed for the night. Remembering Liu Junyi's words, he quickly dressed, retraced his steps through the cave, and headed back to the camp.
***
When Ye Fei arrived at the base, dinner had already concluded, and groups of his fellow special forces members were scattered around, chatting. He greeted them briefly, then made his way to Liu Junyi's quarters. After knocking softly, he announced, "Aunt, I'm back."
The door opened quickly, and Liu Junyi threw herself into his arms. Her embrace was tight, and Ye Fei could feel her trembling.
Concerned, he asked, "What's wrong?"
"I was worried. When you didn't return, I thought something might have happened to you," she whispered, her voice laced with relief and emotion. "Please, stay with us from now on. I won't let you go off alone again."
Seeing her so visibly anxious stirred a mix of gratitude and guilt in Ye Fei. Softly, he reassured her, "I'm sorry. I found an incredible place and lost track of time. The scenery is breathtaking, and the place has some unique properties that could help with cultivation. I think you'll love it. Let me take you there tomorrow."
Though she initially pushed him away in irritation, his mention of "a place she'd love" piqued her interest. Trying to sound stern, she replied, "Fine. But if it's not as amazing as you say, I'll have to find a way to punish you!" Despite her words, there was a playful tone to her voice.
Since the temporary base was far smaller than the previous one, Ye Fei knew it would be unwise to spend the night with Liu Junyi. After sharing a quiet moment with her, he left her room to rejoin Zhang Qiang and the others in their quarters.
***
The next morning, Liu Junyi convened a brief meeting with the team leaders, explaining that Ye Fei had discovered a suspicious area the day before. To ensure there were no oversights, she planned to inspect it with him.
As they entered the forest and disappeared from sight, Ye Fei exchanged a knowing smile with her. Placing his arm around her waist, he picked up speed, moving with near effortless swiftness through the dense woods. Liu Junyi marveled at the speed as the landscape blurred around her, pride swelling as she realized the extent of his abilities.
When they arrived, Ye Fei led her towards the towering trees, guiding her through what appeared to be a solid row of trunks. Startled, Liu Junyi gasped as they passed through without obstruction and found themselves in a new, breathtaking setting.
"Why didn't we crash into the trees?" she asked, still bewildered by the seamless transition.
Curious, Ye Fei suggested they step back and approach again. As they did, Liu Junyi once more saw the dense wall of trees, while Ye Fei saw none. With a laugh, he realized they had stumbled upon a natural maze—a phenomenon he'd only read about in legends. It seemed his enhanced perception allowed him to see through the illusion, explaining why only he could guide them into the valley.
Relieved, he remarked, "This natural maze will keep the place hidden. No one else should be able to find it."
Liu Junyi beamed at him, her excitement clear. "Is this the place you mentioned? Take me further in!"
Guiding her through the cave, they soon entered the hidden valley. Liu Junyi's face lit up as she took in the picturesque surroundings, enchanted by the lush landscape and playful animals. Her laughter rang out as she began interacting with the animals, her delight as innocent as a child's.
Watching her, Ye Fei was struck by a thought: he envisioned if one day he could bring all the women around him here, it would be such a beautiful sight to see a group of angelic beauties playing here.
After a time, Ye Fei approached her, saying, "There's a lake in the center. It has a unique effect that can boost cultivation. Want to try it out?"
Since she hadn't been able to wash up after their long trek the previous day, Liu Junyi was eager to refresh herself. Smiling, she agreed but quickly turned to him and, with a playful command, said, "You can turn around now."
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