----------------------------Chapter 4 Baliu Village-------------------------------




Ryo knew they were close; for he could see one of the villagers carry
grain upon his back, in the distance. The Sun's glare blatantly blocked their view
for a brief interval; but once it cleared Baliu village was clearly in sight.
Ryo eyes stared ahead; now with a newly determined gazed. This was it, here
he had to find out the next step. Shenhua looked up at him, she could see the
fire in his eyes; that unwavering focus.

Shenhua and Ryo made there way down the hill to the village. A large wall surrounded
the village inside.

"The wall represents security and protection from invasion." Shenhua said as they
made their way to the gate.

Ryo nodded as he observed a massive wooden door; two massive pillars served as hinges,
obviously this was the entrance. Two young men, dressed in similar attire; long
cotton robes, served as guards to the entrance. They also looked similar, with the same
haircut; head fully shaven, long ponytail in the back.

Immediately, they recognize Shenhua, however the stranger beside her was a different
story.

"Shenhua, so you have returned." The one of the right spoke diligently

Shenhua nodded.

"And who is the stranger fellow with you?" The one on the left asked next.

"He is no stranger, he is, the one..." Shenhua begin to stammer

Ryo took the iniative to introduce himself.

"My name is Hazuki Ryo" Ryo did the Hazuki bow in respect.

They nodded in respect as well, however they were still skeptical, and still
had questions.

"I'm Wang-san and this XiongZhang. Your clothes are different you are not from this
region, am I right?"

"Yes." Ryo answered politely

"He is here to get information about a mirror made of phantom riverstone" Shenhua
cut in.

"A mirror? May I see it?"


Ryo took out the Phoenix mirror from his back pocket and placed it in Wang-san's hand.
The village native marveled at the magnificent design.

"This is indeed from this region, but how would an outsider like you get his hands
on it."

Wang-san handed back to Ryo after a brief interval of observation.

"I don't know much about this mirror. But the Phoenix here is sacred. You should
talk to the village elder, he would know more about the legend.