I suddenly spun around, only to discover a tall figure standing behind me. Night had fallen, and the bamboo grove was draped in dim shadows, obscuring the intruder's face. Only his deep, unfathomable eyes flickered in the darkness with a chilling brilliance.
"Who is it?!" I demanded defensively, my right hand instinctively tightening around the hilt of the sword at my waist.
The figure did not answer, merely taking a slow step closer to me. I instinctively tried to retreat, only to find my legs feeling as heavy as lead, rooted to the spot.
Chapter 21