From the depths of the cave, a tall figure stepped into the dim light.
His features were sharp and calm. His expression showed little emotion.
His gaze settled on the unconscious woman lying on the cold stone floor.
A sword wound pierced her abdomen.
Blood loss — severe.
Meridians — in disorder.
Her spiritual aura flickered faintly.
Unstable.
He observed her briefly before shifting his attention outward.
Silently, his senses expanded beyond the cave walls.
Three figures stood outside.
Their killing intent was restrained, but clear.
They had come for her.
His eyes narrowed slightly.
"A new problem…" he thought.
Saving her would invite trouble.
Ignoring her would allow him to remain hidden.
For a few quiet breaths, the cave was filled with nothing but silence and thought.
Then—
Footsteps reached the entrance.
Three shadowed figures stepped inside.
Their movements were careful and cold.
Inside the darkness, the man made his decision.
Whatever happened—
He would save her.
Without hesitation, he lifted the unconscious woman into his arms and moved deeper into the cave, hiding behind a large stone and concealing their presence.
The assassins searched carefully.
"Come out," one said coldly. "There is no escape."
Silence answered them.
After checking every visible corner, one finally spoke.
"…She's not here."
Reluctantly, the three left the cave.
Their footsteps slowly faded away.
Only after their presence disappeared completely did the man step out from behind the stone.
The tension in his eyes eased slightly.
For the first time—
He relaxed.
He lowered his gaze to the woman in his arms.
Calmly.
Silently.
Looking at her pale, unconscious face in the dim light of the cave.