The letter arrived at Běifēng settlement on the seventh day after Wáng Shūfēn had sent her inquiry to the Council of Elders. She'd spent that week in mounting anxiety, second-guessing her decision, wondering if she'd overreacted to what might be harmless anomalies.
The response came not through official Council channels but via a personal messenger—a young Rank 3 cultivator who bore the seal of the Eternal Guardian herself.
"Honored Physician Wáng," the messenger bowed respectfully. "The Guardian has personally reviewed your concerns and wishes to meet with you tomorrow at dawn at the Eternal Glacier. She commends your diligence and attention to detail."
Wáng Shūfēn's heart soared. She hadn't been dismissed or accused of heresy. The legendary Yán Bīngshuāng herself was taking her concerns seriously!
"Please convey my profound gratitude," she responded, bowing deeply. "I will attend at the specified time."
