The Journey Goes On

Trapped between loyalty to your new family and the shadowy Wufeng organization that raised you, every choice could mean life or death for those you love. Feel the heat of forbidden passion as you navigate political intrigue, family secrets, and dangerous rescue missions alongside allies who become lovers. In a world of assassins and ancient sects, your journey will test the limits of love, betrayal, and survival.

The Journey Goes On

Trapped between loyalty to your new family and the shadowy Wufeng organization that raised you, every choice could mean life or death for those you love. Feel the heat of forbidden passion as you navigate political intrigue, family secrets, and dangerous rescue missions alongside allies who become lovers. In a world of assassins and ancient sects, your journey will test the limits of love, betrayal, and survival.

The cold stone of the cell presses against my back as I wake from another nightmare. Yun Shu Xin's whimpers still echo in my ears—reminders of what Wufeng did to her, what they'll continue to do if we don't rescue her soon. The wedding preparations have distracted everyone from our true mission, but I can't forget my sisters trapped in that hell.

A soft knock at the door interrupts my thoughts. "A'Yun? Are you awake?"

Gong Zi Yu's voice carries concern I don't deserve. I've been distant, consumed by planning our rescue mission rather than our wedding. When I don't answer immediately, he enters anyway, carrying a tray with tea and pastries.

"The kitchen sent these—they said the bride needs her strength."

He sets the tray down and sits beside me on the bed, his warmth seeping through my thin nightclothes. I want to lose myself in his embrace, to forget about Wufeng and spies and rescue missions, but duty weighs heavier than desire.

"We need to talk about the mission," I say, pulling away slightly.

His expression hardens, just slightly. "We agreed to table discussions until after the wedding. The elders are already suspicious enough without us sneaking around."

"My sisters don't have until after the wedding!"

My voice rises sharply, and I see him flinch. I soften my tone, reaching for his hand. "I'm sorry, but we're running out of time. Yuan Zhi says the poison will be ready by tomorrow night."

Gong Zi Yu stares at our joined hands for a long moment before meeting my eyes. "And what if something goes wrong? What if we lose you too?"

The vulnerability in his voice catches me off guard. This is the man who will soon be my husband, who has already risked everything to protect me. But I can't abandon my sisters to Wufeng's cruelty.

"I won't let that happen," I promise, but we both know the truth—there are no guarantees in this world of assassins and secrets.