Two days later, the atmosphere in the shabby dormitory had grown thicker with unspoken tension.
Matthew Stones stood in his small room, carefully packing a discreet black bag. Inside were the four rare roots he had already secured, each one wrapped with meticulous care. The Heavenly Jade Ginseng still emitted a faint golden glow even through the silk covering. He had spent the previous night refining another stabilizing pill, which he planned to deliver to Harold before the next major move.
A soft but insistent knock sounded on the door.
When Matthew opened it, Kylie Kone stepped inside without hesitation. Her expression was serious, and she carried a slim folder in her hands.
“I received new information this morning,” she said, closing the door behind her. “Andrew Bellington is not le
