(Zhu Zhuqing portrait)
Zhu Zhuqing's door swung open.
A figure stepped out into the hazy lamplight.
She was still dressed in that revealing tank top and shorts, but her aura had changed completely.
Much of the chill and loneliness that had once clung to her like a drawn bowstring had faded.
In its place was a restrained calm, like the deep waters of a secluded pool—still on the surface, yet harboring greater and more profound strength beneath.
Her aura flowed smoothly and harmoniously around her. She had clearly completely absorbed the Immortal Herb's medicinal power, and her cultivation had stabilized.
What made Ning Rongrong and Lin Jiang look twice was that Zhu Zhuqing's usually cold face
now carried a rare, faint smile from the heart. Her gaze held less wariness and more brightness and resolve.
"Master, Rongrong."
She spoke softly, her voice seeming somewhat gentler than before.
"Zhuqing! You finally came out!"
Ning Rongrong immediately set down her milk tea and waved excitedly.
"Come over! Try this Pearl Milk Tea Master made—it's unbelievably good!"
Zhu Zhuqing smiled at Ning Rongrong, but instead of heading to the stone table first, she walked steadily over to Lin Jiang.
She gazed at Lin Jiang, her eyes filled with complicated emotions—gratitude, reverence, and perhaps an indescribable bond as well.
Then, without hesitation, she was about to kneel before Lin Jiang in a formal salute.
"Zhuqing thanks Master for granting me the Immortal Herb. This kindness of remaking me—"
Her voice was clear and solemn.
Lin Jiang had expected this. He raised a hand, and a gentle stream of Soul Power supported her before she could bow down.
"Get up. You seized this opportunity yourself; there is no need for such a grand salute."
Zhu Zhuqing straightened with the motion, but did not immediately step