They encountered several groups along the way, both palace soldiers and bandits locked in combat. Li Qiang didn't hesitate. His movements were precise, deadly, and impossibly fast. Every strike was calculated, aimed at fatal points—throats, hearts, and temples. There was no wasted effort, no hesitation in his actions. His blade moved like a blur, slicing through armor and flesh with deadly efficiency. The soldiers never stood a chance, and neither did the bandits. Each one fell before they could even react.