Leon noticed Addison's expression change and asked, "What's wrong? Do you have something urgent? You can tell me. I'll help you sort it out." "Alright." Addison hesitated momentarily before speaking, "Uncle Leon, can you drive me to Herbs Valley to find Grandpa?" Leon's eyelid twitched at her words. "What are you going to Herbs Valley for? The valley is freezing this time of year. It's too harsh for a young girl like you. "Just stay home, and I'll make you some food." But Addison shook her head firmly and patted her chest in assurance. "Did you forget? I followed Grandpa around in Herbs Valley when I was a kid. I've endured all sorts of hardships. This weather is nothing for me." "But you've only just recovered. You were freezing for so long in that dressing room, and now that you're finally better, you want to head into the valley and risk getting sick again?" "I'll be fine," Addison insisted, her eyes sincere and pleading. Herbs Valley was rugged and complex, and it was easy to get lost in. Moreover, her sense of direction wasn't great. Going alone would almost certainly lead to her getting lost. She had no choice but to ask Leon to go with her. "Please, Uncle Leon—pretty please!" Seeing that Leon was still reluctant, Addison resorted to her ultimate weapon. Blinking her eyes adorably and acting coquettishly. Sure enough, this move worked instantly. "Don't bother. Go away," Leon relented, waving his hand dismissively. As he gently pushed her aside, Addison's hopeful expression dimmed slightly, thinking he still wouldn't agree. She looked visibly disappointed. Unexpectedly, the next second, Leon added, "Go grab a thick coat before we leave. "You definitely can't wear what you have on now. You'll freeze to death in the valley. "And don't expect me to give you my coat if that happens." "Wait—you're really taking me?" Addison's eyes widened in disbelief. "Well, are you going or not?" "I'm going! I'll get my coat right now!" Addison was overjoyed by the sudden good news, practically sprinting back to her room. In no time, she returned, bundled up in warm clothes. To her surprise, a massive SUV was already parked outside, and her uncle was overseeing the loading of supplies. The back of the vehicle was filled with all sorts of gear—from medical kits to outdoor equipment. At first glance, it almost looked like they were moving house. "Uncle Leon, we're just going to Herbs Valley. Do we really need to bring all this stuff?" "Yes, we do," Leon said, patting the SUV's trunk. "I packed some essential medical equipment and outdoor gear. "The valley is dangerous. Better safe than sorry." Addison scratched her head in confusion. When she used to go to Herbs Valley with her grandpa as a child, they never brought so much stuff. Leon was being overly cautious. Just as she was about to comment, Leon added, "If it were just me going, I wouldn't bother bringing any of this. "But since I'm taking you along, I must ensure you're safe. If anything happens to you, I will be skinned by your grandfather." Hearing this, whatever Addison was about to say instantly died in her throat. Leon had gone to such great lengths just to ensure her safety. Her heart filled with a mix of emotions. Aside from Harvey and her grandpa, she couldn't think of anyone else who treated her with such genuine care. The SUV rumbled along uneven mountain roads, bumping and shaking as it approached the valley. After navigating countless rugged paths, they finally reached a secluded residence nestled deep within the valley. The residence was built along the mountainside, shrouded in a thick layer of mist that obscured its details, lending it an air of mystery. Addison stared wide-eyed at the scene outside the window, momentarily stunned. Though the residence wasn't large, it exuded a sense of elegance and precision. Its exterior carried an aura of depth and mystery, and even from several hundred yards away, the faint scent of herbs wafted through the air. When she was younger, she had lived in Herbs Valley with her grandpa, but they only had a simple wooden hut. The two of them would spend their days collecting and brewing herbs, always looking for new medicinal plants. Though life was simple, it had its own charm. After all, Herbs Valley was known for its treacherous terrain and complex environment. It was notorious as a 'cursed valley' in the region. The valley was perpetually shrouded in mist, with some areas filled with poisonous gases and hidden marshes, making it perilous at every turn. Many stories circulated about how thrill-seeking adventurers would enter the valley each month, only to vanish without a trace, never to return alive.