"Senior Sister…" Li Fan watched Senior Sister Zhao's unreadable expression as she waited to be summoned by Sect Leader Ji. The words died on his lips.

"Hmm? What is it, Junior Brother?" She glanced at him, her voice soft. "We've faced life and death together for over a hundred years. Is there anything we cannot speak openly about?"

"It's nothing." Li Fan smiled easily. "Go on, Senior Sister. Just remember, whatever you do, I'll stand behind you."

Senior Sister Zhao smiled gently and walked into the sect's main hall.

Boom!

The heavy doors slammed shut. Li Fan watched her silhouette disappear, a barely perceptible conflict of emotion crossing his eyes.

He did not wait obediently outside. Instead, he returned to Penglai Peak where he...