A Frightening Incident at the Gala

As night deepened, the Martial Arts Heavenly Capital charity gala officially began.

The venue was packed to the brim, its dazzling lights like a river of stars. Heartwarming images of Panshi City's reconstruction scrolled across the background screen, while applause and cheers rose and fell from the audience, driving the atmosphere to a fever pitch.

Jing Liuli stood backstage awaiting her turn, clutching a warm lava crystal core drink in her hands, her expression somewhat unnatural.

But she was not nervous about her performance.

To be fair, after performing for so many years, she had long grown accustomed to such a "small occasion."

What she was truly worried about was Yun Meng.

It was like going out to have fun only to have a parent tagging along—she could not quite relax.

Fortunately, Caroline came over to defuse the situation.

"Liuli, don't be nervous. You did very well during rehearsal."

Caroline gently straightened the hem of her performance dress, her green eyes brimming with tenderness.

"Besides, Instructor Yun was just joking. She won't really say anything out of line."

Tiandao leaned against the wall nearby, his hands in his pockets, his tone somewhat teasing.

"Don't worry. Sister Yun just likes messing with people. She won't actually make things difficult for you."

Jing Liuli's eyes lit up, and the tension on her face instantly vanished.

"Really?"

Tiandao smiled and ruffled her hair. "Why would I lie to you? All right, your concert is about to begin. Go get ready."

"Mm."

Elsewhere, Yun Meng had no idea what the three youngsters were discussing. She sat atop the Purgatory Demon Dragon's head, in the seat reserved exclusively for her.

The surrounding staff had deliberately cleared out the corner area and even set up simple guardrails. They had clearly come prepared.

Xiao Jin lay meekly