Yang Jing soaked in the warm water.
His muscles and bones relaxed completely, the fatigue from cultivation dissipating. The True Qi within him, strengthened by his recent breakthrough, grew steadier and more condensed as it flowed slowly through his meridians.
He closed his eyes and regulated his breathing for a while before slowly rising, drying himself, and changing into a light black martial outfit. The close-fitting clothes allowed easy movement and would not hinder his movement techniques.
He secured the three items close to his body, one by one.
Once everything was ready, he made one final check. Certain he had forgotten nothing, he stepped out of his room, ready to set off for the Ironblood Gang.
His mother, Liu Cuiling, was already waiting in the courtyard. Seeing her son in his martial outfit, his expression composed, she harbored worry in her eyes but did not ask what he intended to do.
She knew her son now bore important responsibilities. All she needed to do was support him quietly.
Yang Jing approached his mother and offered a few gentle reminders, telling her to rest at home without worrying. Then he pushed open the gates of the Yang Residence and stepped into the night.
Liu Cuiling stood at the entrance, watching his retreating back. His figure soon melted into the pitch-black night and gradually disappeared.
She remained in the cold wind for a long time, her lips moving as she murmured, "Jing, be careful. Stay safe."
Night deepened, its pitch-black curtain shrouding Yuhe County.
Neither stars nor moon appeared in the sky. Cold winds howled through the streets and alleys, carrying a bone-piercing chill.
Yang Jing circulated his True Qi. Light as a swallow, he passed through the streets of the Inner City and sped toward the Outer City.
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