Morning sunlight spilled over Prince Xiaoyao Mansion, sliding down its layered, upturned eaves and scattering flecks of gold across the flagstones.
Xu Yanli had just left the training grounds. Dew from his morning cultivation still clung to the edges of his ink-black robes. Four full years of secluded cultivation in a secret realm had ground away every trace of outward sharpness.
He walked beneath the covered corridor, his steps so light they barely made a sound. He seemed to have melted into the cool morning breeze, his presence withdrawn to the utmost. Even an ordinary Soul Master standing right beside him would have been unable to gauge his strength.
"Your Highness."
Luo Xu hurried over, carrying a thick stack of documents in his arms, and bowed as he spoke.
"Miss Ye has returned. She's waiting in the flower hall."
Xu Yanli paused briefly, then headed straight for the flower hall.
Inside, Ye Guyi sat upright in a wooden chair, quietly sipping tea.
Four years had passed in the blink of an eye, and she had shed all the youthful awkwardness of her early years. Her once shoulder-length golden hair was tied high in a neat ponytail. Her crisp white outfit accentuated her straight, upright bearing, and a sword hung at her waist.
The Angel Holy Sword hung silently at her side, its cold gleam subdued. She was like a divine weapon sheathed in its scabbard, yet still concealing its edge.
Hearing footsteps draw near, Ye Guyi immediately set down her teacup and stood.
The moment her gaze fell on Xu Yanli, a glimmer lit her clear eyes. She quickly suppressed it, tucked away every emotion, and bowed respectfully to him.
"Your Highness."
Xu Yanli nodded slightly and took a seat opposite her, his gaze sweeping calmly over her from head