In the depths of a secluded alley in South City, there stood a grand courtyard beneath the shroud of midnight.
As the night deepened and all fell silent, delicate snowflakes fluttered from the heavens above.
Vice Leader You Yangsheng of the Celestial Water Gang, draped in a long robe, stood vigil at the gate of the courtyard. Several carriages were parked at the entrance, and a squad of guards was ready to set forth.
From within the central carriage, the curtain was gently lifted, revealing a graceful woman. A trace of sorrow lingered in her brows and eyes as she whispered, "Master, you must take care of yourself!"
You Yangsheng offered a faint smile and nodded, yet soon his expression turned grave. He said, "You should take the children and return to your maiden family. If—let me say if—if you receive no word from me within three days, never come back to Linjiang City."
