Chen Xin saw his hesitation and said gently, "You and Rongrong are engaged. She has also brought up breaking off the engagement.
"But the sect is in need of capable people right now, and Rongrong's Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda is vital, whether for assisting with cultivation or for future team battles.
"Putting her in Talent Hall under your supervision would serve several purposes. First, it could temper her disposition. Second, it would help her integrate into the sect's inner circle as soon as possible. And third... perhaps the pressure of her peers and your guidance could help her let go of some pointless fixations."
He paused, his gaze sharp as he looked at Lin Yi. "Of course, if she behaves terribly, disrupts training, or disrespects you, then as Hall Master, you may discipline her according to the rules. You need not worry about me or Fengzhi. It's just... I hope you'll give her a chance. Consider it a way of easing your master's burden, too."
By now, Lin Yi understood what his master meant. Putting Ning Rongrong in Talent Hall was both a way to cultivate her and a disguised form of banishment and trial. Entrusting her to Lin Yi, the "fiancé" she neither respected nor even liked, carried a rather subtle intent.
Lin Yi was silent for a moment, then nodded. "This disciple understands. Since the sect master and Master have decided, I will obey. As long as she follows the hall rules, I'll treat her like everyone else."
"Good." Chen Xin nodded and said no more, his figure transforming into a streak of sword light as he departed.
The next day, a slender figure radiating unmistakable resistance stood on Talent Hall's training field.
Ning Rongrong wore an elegant, pale dress, looking completely out of place beside the