The shadows around Li Ruoxi's master swirled gently, as though responding to the weight and finality of her words.
They crept along the walls like living things, stretching and recoiling in silent obedience.
"Go at once, Midnight," she continued, her voice calm yet firm.
"Time is of the essence. Every moment we delay is another moment others might seize the opportunity before us."
"I will do so at once, Master," Li Ruoxi replied without the slightest hesitation.
She lowered herself into a deep bow, her posture perfectly respectful, her resolve unshaken.
When she straightened, her figure blurred, and in the blink of an eye, she vanished from her master's sight, already setting her course toward Li Zhiyan's household with unwavering determination.
***
The night that followed passed in peace for most members of the Li clan.
Lanterns were extinguished one by one, laughter faded, and the compound slowly sank into silence.
Yet for a select few, sleep proved impossible.
