Lin Taichu stared at the riverbank in the darkness, his heart filled with anxiety. He knew he had to find Martial Mother as soon as possible, but the enemy they faced was stronger than ever before. The Li Family, a clan that had once had little to do with them, had now become their greatest threat because of a set of secret manuals. Lin Taichu silently swore that no matter what, he would not let the Li Family's scheme succeed.
He carefully made his way along the riverbank, his ears constantly alert for any movement around him. The river gurgled, and the night wind howled. Other than that, there was no sound. Lin Taichu's heart rose to his throat as he worried that Martial Mother might encounter danger in this darkness.
Suddenly, a faint cry for help shattered the stillness of the night. Lin Taichu's heart tightened. He looked toward the sound and vaguely saw a figure struggling in the river. Without hesitation, he leaped into the water and swam toward it with all his strength.
When he drew near, he discovered that it was not Martial Mother, but an unfamiliar woman. Her face was pale, and she had clearly been drowning. Without giving it another thought, Lin Taichu reached out and dragged her toward the shore.
The woman lay on the ground, gasping for breath as she looked gratefully at Lin Taichu. "Thank you for saving me."
Lin Taichu waved a hand. "No need to thank me. Have you seen my Martial Mother? She jumped into the river too."
The woman shook her head. "I didn't see anyone else. It's too dark here."
Lin Taichu felt somewhat disappointed, but he knew this was no time for discouragement. He had to find Martial Mother quickly and ensure her safety. So