His words were like a cold blade, completely shattering the last trace of hope in Su Wan'er's heart.
Yes, she should have understood that long ago.
A transaction.
From beginning to end, it had been nothing but a transaction.
He had saved them to obtain intelligence about Black Stone City.
Now that he had the information, they naturally had no more value to him.
"Once you go inside, find somewhere to hide. Or use this money to leave and go to another city. It's up to you."
Lu Yuan's voice held no emotion. "There's just one thing: forget that you ever met me, and don't mention me to anyone. If your names become connected to mine in any way..."
He paused, a cold glint flashing in his eyes.
"Believe me, I can do to you far worse than the Blood Soul Sect."
That threat felt more real and more effective than any words of comfort could have.
Su Wan'er shuddered all over, her face turning paler than snow.
She lowered her head, not daring to look Lu Yuan in the eye again.
"...I understand."
It took all her strength to force those words from her throat.
"Good."
Lu Yuan nodded in satisfaction, seeming to appreciate that she knew what was best for her.
He said nothing more. Turning around, he headed toward Black Stone City.
His pace remained unhurried, but his figure seemed to blend into the shifting light and shadows around him. After a few flickers, he disappeared among the people traveling along the road, leaving no trace.
It was as if he had never been there.
In the empty woods, only Su Wan'er and her younger brother, Su Ming, remained.
Su Ming still didn't understand what had happened. He tugged at his sister's sleeve and asked softly, "Sis,