NONE SHALL PASS

As they moved through the halls, the flickering lanterns cast long shadows against the walls, their soft glow illuminating the rich carvings embedded in the wooden panels. Outside, the night remained eerily silent—too silent. The air was thick with tension, almost as if the world itself was holding its breath, waiting for something to unfold.

Shi Min’s pace was brisk but measured. "Paps, I know you’re worried," he said quietly, sensing his stepfather’s unease. "But trust me—those warriors are more than capable of handling any threat that approaches."

Four Eyes exhaled, glancing once more at the door leading to the alchemy chamber. He had never been one to rely on others easily, but the sheer power radiating from the samurai had left little room for doubt.

As they stepped deeper into the estate, Four Eyes finally found himself allowing a fraction of his tension to dissipate. At least for now, he could take solace in the fact that Ling Li was protected.