Inside Lingxi Hall.
Bai Bing calmly surveyed Yang Jing and Si Jiawen, who stood in the hall.
Seeing that both were brimming with vitality, their fighting spirit held in check, without the slightest trace of stage fright or impatience, she gave a slight nod, her expression cool.
Then she said softly, "Since you're both ready, let's go out together."
As her words fell, Yang Jing and Si Jiawen bowed in unison, their bearing proper and respectful, and answered together, "Yes."
Bai Bing said no more. She slowly rose, her posture tall and aloof, carrying the distinctive dignity of a Peak Master. Her robes hung softly as she stepped down from the meditation cushion at the head of the hall and led the way outside with composed strides.
Yang Jing and Si Jiawen followed closely behind Bai Bing, one on either side, their steps steady. Several feet separated them, and they exchanged no glances, yet both faintly exuded the sharp edge of elite disciples. The silence held an undercurrent of tension.
As they left the hall, the morning sunlight spilled over their shoulders, dispelling the cool stillness within.
The clamor outside immediately washed over them, reaching their ears with perfect clarity.
The moment the three emerged from Lingxi Hall, they became the focus of every gaze.
By now, Lingxi Square was packed so tightly with disciples from the Profound Truth Sect Main Peak and the Seven Branches that not even water could trickle through.
Dense clusters of figures filled every corner of the square. On the stone steps, beside the railings, and around the stone platforms, disciples stood watching everywhere.
Voices mingled in a lively din of conversation, bringing the atmosphere atop Lingxi Peak to a fever pitch.
The instant those still talking quietly saw Bai Bing appear with Yang Jing