Morning.0

The morning sunlight climbed the stone steps in segments, casting a golden hue over the two stone beasts at the entrance. The Li Family had commissioned artisans to craft these statues in the likeness of the Hooked Serpent, Li Wushao. The beast’ tails coiled tightly while its head held high.2

Li Zhouwei emerged from the central hall, his brocade-lined golden boots clicking crisply against the ground. With a hand resting on the sword at his waist, he had matured significantly over the past few years. The innate aura he once carried had been restrained, no longer striking fear into those who beheld him.0

Even the brilliance in his eyes had gradually faded, transforming into a distinctive shade of deep brown. The once-intimidating presence had seemingly vanished. He stepped forward lightly, and only in fleeting glances did a trace of cunning surface. Occasionally, his movements revealed a swiftness and agility that left others startled, making it hard to believe...0