Ye Xuan's voice rang out again, cold as the wind and snow of winter, carrying an unquestionable command.
"Do as I taught you. Cooperate with the Spirit Hall Empire's people at the wedding, then strike from within and without to help us seize Star Luo Imperial City in one fell swoop."
"If you complete the mission successfully, I will not only release your grandfather, but also leave the Speed Clan a way to survive."
"But if you dare betray me, or if the mission fails..." Ye Xuan's gaze sharpened once more. "You, your grandfather, and the entire Speed Clan will all be reduced to ashes."
With that, he turned and walked toward the door without sparing Bai Chenxiang another glance, as though she were nothing more than a disposable tool.
The door closed softly with a click, and the room fell into deathly silence once more.
Bai Chenxiang remained in the same position, lying motionless on the bed.
Her tears had already run dry. Her eyes were red, swollen, and parched, and her face bore no expression—only utter stillness.
Slowly, she raised her hand and looked at her fair fingertips. They seemed to still retain the icy aura of Ye Xuan's Soul Power, an aura she loathed beyond measure yet could not escape.
Within her sea of consciousness, that Soul Mark clung to her like a parasite, constantly reminding her of her predicament.
She thought of her grandfather, of his frail appearance in the crystal ball, and an intense sense of responsibility rose within her.
For her grandfather, she had to endure.
For her grandfather, she had to carry out the task Ye Xuan had assigned her.
Even if this road was covered in thorns, even if she would bear eternal infamy, even if she lost everything, she still had