The sound of the cell door closing echoed faintly in Chen Shenzhi’s ear, while Di Ruyi and Yanwei’s voices floated in the air—calm yet deeply probing, as if trying to read his thoughts. His whole body was tense, muscles taut as if every hair was standing on end.
After calming his heart, he looked at the young maiden in white standing before him and said with a gentle smile, “Baimeng, it’s been a long time since we last met. You’ve changed little.”
“This is the truth, Master,” Baimeng replied softly. She showed the faintest trace of a smile, the slight curve of her lips suggesting a warm familiarity.
As she spoke, she instinctively raised her arm slightly, revealing a mark on her forearm—an M-shaped symbol that seemed to carry a significant meaning. Chen Shenzhi’s eyes flickered with recognition at the sight.
She went on to gesture toward her arm, clearly intending to show something important.
However, before she could say more, Nan Rongyu stepped forward, speaking with measured calm but a sharp edge underlying his tone. He deliberately pulled at the sleeve of Yanwei’s robe, exposing his arm as well, but there was no hint of defiance in his movements.
“Are you really confident in your skills?” Nan Rongyu asked, his gaze piercing and steady as he addressed Baimeng directly. “From the aura you carry, it’s clear you’ve trained extensively. But are you prepared to show your true strength?”
Baimeng’s eyes narrowed slightly, but she remained silent.
Nan Rongyu smiled faintly, his expression confident yet respectful. “If you’re unwilling to reveal your full ability, then there’s little to discuss.”
The young maiden in white, blushing under his gaze, was clearly someone who had endured great trials—her identity tied to Yanwei’s sect. Her delicate features bore the faintest hint of fatigue, yet there was an undeniable strength in her posture.
Her movements were graceful and fluid, betraying her cultivated skill despite her seemingly fragile frame.
As Nan Rongyu’s voice softened, he continued, “We all know the hardships faced by the disciples of Yanwei’s sect. You carry the weight of your master’s expectations. But I wonder, are you willing to stand firm here, in front of all, and prove your resolve?”
The tension in the room grew thick, the air charged with unspoken challenges.
Chen Shenzhi watched carefully, recognizing the courage it took for Baimeng to stand her ground. Nan Rongyu’s words were like a double-edged blade—both a challenge and an invitation.
Suddenly, the atmosphere shifted as whispers spread among the gathered disciples, some urging caution, others encouraging boldness.
Sensing the rising tension, Nan Rongyu’s expression hardened slightly. “Baimeng, if you truly believe in your strength, do not hesitate. Show us the power that lies within.”
The maiden’s eyes flickered with determination, but before she could respond, Chen Shenzhi gently raised his hand to interrupt.
“Enough,” he said firmly, his voice cutting through the murmurs. “This is not the place for needless conflict.”
The disciples immediately fell silent, their eyes fixed on Chen Shenzhi.
He continued, “There are greater threats that require our attention. We must not waste our energy on petty disputes.”
Nan Rongyu bowed his head slightly in acknowledgment, though a trace of reluctance lingered in his eyes.
Baimeng remained composed, yet the faint blush on her cheeks suggested a mixture of relief and lingering resolve.
Suddenly, a shadow flickered at the edge of the courtyard. Chen Shenzhi’s gaze sharpened instantly.
“Who goes there?” he called out.
From the shadows emerged a figure, cloaked and hooded, moving with swift, practiced steps.
Chen Shenzhi instinctively tensed, ready to react.
The figure stopped at a respectful distance and lowered the hood, revealing a familiar face.
“It is I,” the visitor said quietly. “I bring urgent news from the front.”
Chen Shenzhi’s expression darkened. “Speak quickly.”
The visitor bowed once more before reporting the latest developments—news that could change everything.
Later that evening, Chen Shenzhi stood beneath the moonlit sky, the cool breeze brushing against his face.
Di Ruyi approached quietly, her eyes reflecting the pale light.
“Master,” she said softly, “the path ahead is fraught with danger. But with your guidance, we can overcome.”
Chen Shenzhi nodded solemnly. “I will do everything in my power. For the sake of all, we must persevere.”
Yanwei and Baimeng joined them, their faces resolute.
Together, they faced the uncertain future—united, determined, and ready to confront whatever trials awaited them.