Planning behind the Shadows

Seraphina comfortably settled in the luxurious quarters of the Emerald Garden Pavilion, an establishment owned by the Sinclair. The ambiance lived up to its name, with lush gardens and serene ponds surrounding the pavilion, creating a tranquil atmosphere that put her at ease.

As she prepared for the night, Seraphina reflected on the day. The encounters with Alexander and Isabella had proven to be both delightful and informative. Their genuine kindness and willingness to share their knowledge made her feel welcome in Serenity Peak City. She also learned there would be an auction on unique materials in five days.

Seraphina decided to use this opportunity to familiarize herself with the city's political landscape and the influential figures at the auction. The Rising Phoenix Trading Company was known to attract powerful cultivators and merchants from Solara, and the auction offered a unique chance to network and gain valuable connections.

She also needed to report at the nearest branch of the Coven about her discoveries in Serenity Hollow. A rogue cultivator couldn't have done that without help and backing.

The discoveries she made in Serenity Hollow were too significant to overlook. The ginseng and the ominous markings hinted at a deeper conspiracy that needed to be unraveled. She was determined to report her findings to the Coven and seek their guidance on how to proceed.

Furthermore, she wanted to figure out if this had something to do with 'them'. It wasn't time yet and she was sure that she hadn't influenced the main story yet, but she could never be sure of what ripples her presence had caused in this world.

[Fallar Family Estate]

Claude Fallar, the young master of the family, was engrossed in a spread-out map on his study desk. He meticulously studied the markings and annotations, absorbed in the intricate details of the family's upcoming plans. The news of Isolmeda's demise and the missing Ten-Thousand-Year-Old Ginseng still weighed heavily on his thoughts, adding an air of urgency to his preparations.

The study's ornate double doors swung open once more, and Tony Fallar, Claude's younger brother, entered with a stormy expression that clashed with his usually carefree demeanor. Tony's black hair was slightly disheveled, and his face held an unmistakable hint of frustration.

"Brother," Tony began, his voice carrying a hint of urgency, "you won't believe what happened at the Golden Dragon Inn."

Claude looked up from the map, his gaze meeting his brother's. "What have you done this time, Tony?"

Tony leaned against the desk, his expression animated as he recounted the events of his encounter with a mysterious woman named Seraphina at the inn. He spared no detail, vividly describing the woman's striking appearance, the unique aura, and the intrigue she seemed to carry with her.

Claude's eyebrows raised, his interest piqued. "Go on, Tony. What happened next?"

Tony's grin grew wider, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Well, I decided to engage her in conversation, you know, extend the courtesy of introducing myself as a Fallar. But instead of the expected reaction, she gave me a look of ... disdain, as if I were beneath her notice."

Claude's gaze remained locked on his brother, his analytical mind already churning through the possibilities. "Distain, you say? An interesting response. It suggests a certain level of self-assuredness."

Tony nodded eagerly, his excitement undiminished. "Yes, exactly! And I couldn't simply let that slide. I mean, how dare she challenge the Fallar name?"

Claude's expression turned thoughtful, his mind a wellspring of strategic calculations. "Indeed, Tony. We find ourselves facing an enigma. An individual who not only possesses notable attributes but also the audacity to question our family's standing."

Tony's determination solidified into a confident smirk. "Exactly, Claude. I've already devised a plan to address the slight she dealt me. I intend to show her the consequences of underestimating a Fallar."

Claude's calculating gaze bore into his brother's eyes. "Very well, Tony. Your initiative is commendable. However, remember that we tread on uncertain ground. Seraphina's sudden appearance and her confidence are indicators of a calculated mind. Proceed with your plan, but exercise caution and employ strategic foresight."

As Tony exited the study, Claude's mind remained a whirlwind of analysis and calculation. The emergence of Seraphina and the clash with his impulsive brother presented an opportunity - an opportunity to gauge the extent of this woman's potential and unravel the threads of influence that she might wield.

Claude understood that every action had consequences, and he was determined to ensure that this played out to the advantage of the Fallar family.

But he didn't link this case to the stolen ginseng since an auction held by the Rising Phoenix Trading Company will be in five days. Rare materials might not sound enticing, but the name of the auctioneers will attract some influential people to this town. He guessed that this mysterious woman was just one of them who arrived a bit early. Still, he was cautious and wanted to be sure.

"Butler Chen, I want you to trail my brother and find out some information about this woman tomorrow!"

"Understood, Young Master, I shall be on my way." A shadow emerged from a dark corner of the room, hidden away by the bookshelves. After confirming the task, he darted away, and if not for a faint breeze that followed right after, one might assume there never was anyone other than Claude in the room.

[Emerald Garden Pavillion]

As she settled onto the plush bed, Seraphina's mind continued to churn. Her thoughts meandered through the complex layers of Solara's political landscape, the alliances and rivalries that shaped the continent. The Rising Phoenix Trading Company's auction offered a unique opportunity to observe and engage with influential figures from various corners of the realm.

'Hm, I wonder who will come to this auction. There never was any mention of it inside the novel since it mainly focused on the MC.' She deliberated while enjoying the comfiness her pillows provided.

The distant echo of a guqin's melody reached her ears, a reminder of the elegance and sophistication that pervaded the city. Seraphina's lips curved into a thoughtful smile. She was no stranger to the art of observation and relished the chance to navigate the intricacies of this new world soon.