The marble floors of Viper Manor echoed with Chen Fong's measured footsteps. Lanterns cast serpentine shadows across ancient tapestries depicting coiled vipers, their golden threads catching the flickering light.
He paused at the entrance to the strategy chamber where Xie Mu worked late into the night. Through the crack in the door, he watched her bent over scrolls, her dark hair falling across her face as she plotted supply routes and defense positions.
"Your dedication impresses me." Chen Fong stepped inside, closing the door behind him.
Xie Mu looked up, her brush hovering over fresh ink. "Chen Fong. What brings you at this hour?"
"The same drive that keeps you here. Securing our clan's future." He moved closer, noting how the System stirred at her presence. Her ability to influence minds would prove invaluable, if he could claim it.
