Bai Bing looked at the two standing bowed in the hall and offered a few more reminders, her tone softening. "You have only just broken through to the Qi-Devouring Realm. Your priority should be consolidating your foundation. Do not rush for results during this period; settle your mind and hone your internal qi. If you encounter anything you do not understand in your cultivation, you may come to Lingxi Hall to find me, or ask your Senior Sister."
She paused, her gaze settling on Yang Jing, and added, "Come to Lingxi Hall tomorrow morning. You will accompany me to Mountain-Suppressing Peak."
"Yes, Peak Master," Yang Jing replied solemnly.
"That will be all." Bai Bing waved a hand, dismissing them.
Yang Jing and Si Jiawen answered together, "We take our leave."
The two bowed before turning and slowly withdrawing from Lingxi Hall.
The daylight outside the hall was somewhat dazzling. When the disciples stationed on either side saw them emerge, they hurriedly bowed to Si Jiawen, respectfully calling her "Senior Sister."
Si Jiawen merely nodded slightly without slowing, heading straight toward the stone steps outside the hall. Whatever she was thinking about, a trace of distraction lingered between her brows, and she seemed a little lost in thought.
Yang Jing followed behind her. Seeing her somewhat wandering steps, he hurried forward to catch up and walk beside her, asking respectfully, "Senior Sister, I have just broken through to the Qi-Devouring Realm, and my understanding of the realms above Transforming Strength is still rather hazy. I hope you can clear up my confusion."
At the sound of Yang Jing's voice, Si Jiawen abruptly halted and came back to herself.
She turned to glance at him, her eyes holding a complicated mixture of wistfulness, wonder, and a barely perceptible competitive spark.
Then she