Shi Min continued to explain, "The sheer turbulence of the energy radiating from the alchemy room indicates something far beyond ordinary refinement. Depending on the strength of both the alchemist and the pill or elixir in progress, the energy can stretch across a considerable radius, acting like a beacon to those hungry for power. That's why Mom ordered Mushu to secure the place in advance."

Four Eyes nodded in understanding, but his heart still clenched at the thought of Ling Li being in potential danger. His wife was strong—unparalleled in her mastery of alchemy—but even strength had its limits. The thought of predatory cultivators lurking in the shadows, ready to seize an opportunity, set his nerves on edge.

His fingers curled into fists as he and Shi Min swiftly made their way down the dimly lit hallway. Shadows flickered under the soft glow of night lights, elongating their strides as they hurried forward. The air was thick with tension, charged with an eerie silence that spoke of the unseen threat lurking beyond.

Shi Min's steps were quick and deliberate, his gaze sharp. "Stay alert, Paps. If there are cultivators in the vicinity, they won't wait for an invitation."

Four Eyes nodded, his muscles coiling with readiness. His breakthrough had sharpened his abilities, but he needed to be vigilant—ravenous cultivators were ruthless. Four Eyes knew he needed to be twice as vigilant since he was not as strong as Shi Min and his wife, Ling Li. This sudden incident made him more eager to make himself stronger.

As they approached the alchemy room, the hum of energy grew stronger, sending ripples through the air. The sheer pressure of it was suffocating, almost overwhelming, and Four Eyes instinctively raised his arm slightly to shield himself. His breath hitched. This energy was far stronger than he anticipated.

Shi Min's expression darkened. "Mom is working on something monumental. This level of energy disturbance… it could change everything."

Four Eyes swallowed hard, his heartbeat drumming against his ribs.

Ling Li was pushing beyond limits—and they weren't the only ones who had taken notice.

The arrival of Butler Peng, accompanied by a group of formidable warriors clad in samurai attire, shifted the atmosphere into something sharper, heavier—charged with an undeniable tension. Recognizing them instantly as Grand Commander Otako's subordinates, Four Eyes and Shi Min exchanged glances, both understanding the weight of the situation.

Butler Peng stepped forward with a respectful bow. "Master, Young Master Shi Min," he addressed, his tone steady but grave. "This is Butler Oda—Grand Commander Otako's personal steward."

Butler Oda followed suit, bowing deeply. "Master Chu Yan, Young Master Shi Min, I bring urgent news. Madam Ling Li's current activity has already drawn the attention of several clans and an evil cultivator. They are restless, and some are already communicating to join forces in an attempt to attack. As a matter of fact, we encountered two lurking groups on the way here—eliminating them before they could act." He paused, letting the gravity of his words sink in before continuing, "Grand Commander Otako has sent his seven top-tier warriors to reinforce your defenses."

Shi Min felt his breath hitch. His gaze darted toward the seven masked men standing before him, their presence exuding an indescribable aura of power—silent, unwavering, absolute. But then, realization struck him.

'Immortals?' Shi Min's mind reeled at the notion, nearly causing his jaw to drop. How unfathomably strong was Otako to have immortals under his command?

Shi Min was truly stunned, staring for far too long in awe until the moment became painfully awkward. Clearing his throat, he quickly scratched his nose in an attempt to compose himself. "Ehem, please extend our deepest gratitude to Grand Commander Otako for his generosity," he said, stretching his hand toward Butler Oda.

Butler Oda inclined his head with quiet dignity. "Madam Ling Li is very important to my master. I shall leave them in your care." With a final respectful bow, he exited the courtyard alongside Butler Peng.

Shi Min turned his attention back to the samurai warriors, still trying to process their extraordinary presence. Feeling oddly unsure of how to address them properly, he hesitated before finally bowing. "Thank you for your hard work," he said earnestly. "May I know if you need anything from us?"

The leader of the group remained utterly still before responding in a voice devoid of any unnecessary formality. "No need." With a simple lift of his hand, his command was understood—six of the samurai disappeared in an instant as if they had been mere illusions fading into the night. Only one remained, moving silently to position himself in front of the Alchemy door. Four Eyes blinked. Then he blinked again. Several times, as if his mind refused to comprehend what he had just witnessed. His gaze darted frantically, searching for any sign of movement—anything to explain how six warriors had vanished right before his eyes. Shi Min, who was equally astonished, finally let out a chuckle.

"Paps," he said with amusement, placing a hand on his stepfather's shoulder, "with them around, we can finally get a good night's sleep."

Yet, Shi Min immediately noticed the hesitation in Four Eyes' expression. The older man remained still, worry glimmering in his eyes. His concern for Ling Li was unshakable, his protective instincts refusing to let him relax.

Leaning in slightly, Shi Min whispered, "Paps, those seven samurai—they are all immortal."

Four Eyes blinked once more—harder this time—struggling to process the weight of Shi Min's words fully. His thoughts raced as he tried to rationalize their overwhelming power.

Then, as if sensing the scrutiny placed upon him, the remaining samurai standing beside Mushu subtly inclined his head in acknowledgment, his sharp gaze meeting Four Eyes'.

A silent confirmation.

This was no ordinary protection detail.

This was an iron fortress—and it had just been established at their doorstep.

"Pap's, let's go back," Shi Min said. Without further hesitation, Four Eyes nodded and followed Shi Min back into the main house. His footsteps were steady, though his mind remained alert. The presence of Otako's immortal warriors offered a sense of relief, yet deep within, a lingering concern for Ling Li kept his heart vigilant.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.