The Flowing Cloud Shuttle lay moored below the bluestone steps of the Pill Pavilion's dock on Hundred Herb Island. Han Li carried a Storage Bag containing a Shadow Marten Core and Concealment Fruit, his white robes brighter than snow. The youthful uncertainty of several years ago had faded from his features, replaced by a settled calm. Zi Ling was already waiting beneath the veranda, her moon-white steward's robes accentuating her slender figure. The resonance between her plain silver hairpin and the Star-Water Token remained faint, but when her gaze met Han Li's, a barely perceptible warmth flickered in her eyes.
"You're back," she said softly, her fingertips unconsciously stroking the Star-Illusion Maze Formation Flags at her waist.
Han Li nodded and handed over the Storage Bag. "The Shadow Marten Core can be used to refine a Stealth Cloak. I've already taken one Concealment Fruit. I saved the rest for you." He paused and looked toward the mountain behind the Pill Pavilion. "I intend to enter seclusion there for ten years and devote myself to alchemy."
Zi Ling accepted the bag. Seeing his resolute expression, she knew his mind was made up. "Red Glow Cave on the mountain behind us is quiet. I'll have someone prepare it. But... ten years of your life. Are you truly willing to spend them bent over a pill furnace?"
"On the path of cultivation, one must build deep reserves before unleashing them." Han Li turned toward the Pill Pavilion's main hall, his back straight as a pine. "The Pill Dao and formations are both foundations for survival beyond slaughter and combat. Ten years will be enough."
Red Glow Cave lay halfway up Hundred Herb Peak. It took its name from the residual warmth of pill flame that drifted from its entrance year-round, casting a red