The cave entrance was narrow, just as their previous survey had indicated. After entering, it seemed to be only about three meters deep, but in reality, there was a narrow, wind-eroded passage to the left, just wide enough for one person to pass through.
Wei Ce walked in front, holding Si Shuo's hand tightly. After a winding, downward journey of about seventeen or eighteen minutes, their view suddenly opened up. It was a beautiful, tranquil valley!
Far above their heads, they could see a narrow strip of sky. The orange setting sun cast down its light, and in the dim, yellow-hued view, the valley was about twenty to thirty zhang wide. Trees were deeply rooted in the cliff faces, while the valley floor was covered in low shrubs and flowers.
Si Shuo saw many precious, old medicinal herbs listed in her illustrated guide. A few small animals, startled by their arrival, scurried away in all directions.
