Han Yu observed the town in silence.
"This place…" one of the disciples behind him muttered quietly.
"It is shaped by the Blood River," Han Yu said without turning. "Everything here reflects that."
The group slowed as they reached the outskirts of the town.
Meng Jueyan stepped closer to him.
"This is where I stop," she said.
Han Yu nodded.
"Remain alert," he replied. "If anything changes, you know what to do."
"I do."
There was no need for further instruction.
She stepped back, her presence already beginning to fade into the background as Han Yu and the others continued forward.
The town stretched ahead of them, its atmosphere heavy with unseen currents.
Somewhere within it, the gathering awaited.
And at its center, Lady Rot Rose.
Han Yu did not rush forward the moment they reached the outskirts of the town.
