By the time the carriage pulled up to the serene, green-draped entrance of Oak Haven, the afternoon sun was casting a warm, golden hue across the valley.
I stepped down onto the familiar path, a heavy weight lifting from my chest as the cold, suffocating pressure of the Raith estate finally vanished behind me.
I let out a long, genuine sigh, breathing in the crisp, earthly scent of the surrounding forest.
"Oh, Young Master Jin..."
An elderly woman carrying a basket of freshly harvested herbs paused on the walkway, her weathered face lighting up with warmth as she recognized me. She immediately lowered herself into a proper, respectful bow.
"Welcome back."
"Good afternoon, Madam," I replied softly, dipping my head in a polite, genuine greeting. "It's good to see you well. Is the Chief currently at his residence?"
"Yes, young master, he's inside his home," she smiled warmly, gesturing down the winding path. "You can head right on over. He'll be happy to know you've returned."
