Chapter 18: Ingredients.
Fang Yuan stepped out of the cavern, the cool air of the ravine brushing against his sleeves like the breath of a long-sleeping beast.
As the formation shimmered closed behind him, sealing the Spirit Pond away once more, the two stationed guards straightened and saluted.
"Family Head."
He nodded in return, his tone firm but quiet.
"From now on, no one is to enter this place without my personal stamp of approval. Not even the elders."
The guards exchanged a brief glance and gave a synchronized bow. "Understood."
Fang Yuan lingered for a breath, gaze drifting once more toward the stone corridor that led back into the depths.
Then, with a final glance, he turned and left.
The path from the Eastern Ravine to the central estate was quiet, lined with peach blossom trees whose petals danced faintly in the breeze.
By the time he reached the main gate, a few servants and patrolling guards greeted him with bows, but none dared interrupt his stride.
Fang Yuan made his way back to his office, the heavy oak doors swinging open with a whisper of qi.