Wang Rouyun followed closely behind Li Qiang as they moved through the winding, dimly lit corridors of the palace. The deeper they went, the more complicated the layout became. This wasn't a part of the palace she had been in before.The halls twisted and turned like a maze, designed to confuse intruders or anyone unfamiliar with the layout. But Li Qiang moved with purpose as if he knew every corner, every hidden passage. She had no choice but to trust him.
They encountered several groups along the way, both palace soldiers and bandits locked in combat. Li Qiang didn't hesitate. His movements were precise, deadly, and impossibly fast. Every strike was calculated, aimed at fatal points—throats, hearts, and temples. There was no wasted effort, no hesitation in his actions. His blade moved like a blur, slicing through armor and flesh with deadly efficiency. The soldiers never stood a chance, and neither did the bandits. Each one fell before they could even react.