Twilight like thick black ink slowly permeated every corner of the Capital from the skyline. Under the shroud of this dim light, the bronze door knockers of Princess Zhenguo's Estate emitted a cold and eerie glow, as if some mysterious power lay dormant within. As the heavy gates slowly opened, the door hinges let out a long, grating creak, like the low groan of an ancient giant awakening, instantly startling the grey pigeons resting under the eaves. These frightened birds fluttered their wings and scattered in all directions, the frantic sound of beating feathers echoing over the silent courtyard, adding a sense of tension.
General Li strode inside, reaching up to remove his dark iron mask, revealing a face covered in ferocious knife scars. An old injury above his right eyebrow was particularly striking; whenever he raised his brow, the scar twisted and writhed on his skin like a living centipede, recounting the cruelty of past battlefields. Behind him, twelve personal guards clad in Dark Ice-patterned soft armor had the tassels of their waist swords snapping fiercely in the howling gale. Every step they took on the bluestone flags produced a dull thud that struck people's hearts like a heavy hammer, sending chills down the spine. The guards' gazes were like torches, scanning their surroundings vigilantly. The murderous aura emanating from them seemed to freeze the air in the entire courtyard.
"The Princess is not receiving guests." The steward hurriedly blocked the ceremo…
Chapter 103