Fang Yuan's gaze lingered on Xiao Pei's despondent form and Fang Lian's pale face.
If only the system shop offers healing pills or a body transformation elixir, he thought in his head.
"Alright then, Xiao Pei," Fang Yuan said, his voice regaining its steady command. "Go to the alchemy pavilion and seek my Aunt Jingyi. We'll consult Doctor Mu tomorrow when he's done… so let's go with our second best option."
Xiao Pei nodded, relief warring with residual dread. "Understood, Brother Fang. I'll take my leave then."
He shuffled out, shoulders hunched as if expecting fangirls to ambush him once he stepped out.
The door clicked shut.
Silence thickened, broken only by the brazier's soft hiss.
Fang Yuan turned fully to Fang Lian.
Her knuckles were white where she gripped her tunic, her spine rigid despite her attempt at calm.
"Sit," Fang Yuan ordered, gentler than his usual tone.
She dropped to the packed-earth floor like a stone, folding her legs beneath her.
