The next morning, when Xu Xuanhan stepped into the Ye Family's courtyard residence, the morning dew had yet to disperse.
His fingers unconsciously rubbed the tortoiseshell token tucked within his sleeve, his father's words from the previous night still echoing in his ears.
"No matter the cost..."
In the distance—
"Brother Xuanhan, you're here early."
A clear voice interrupted his thoughts.
Ye Ruilin stood beneath the corridor in white robes, the morning sunlight outlining him in gold.
Beside him, Ma Hongjun, his hair a messy tangle, waved in their direction.
"This concerns Martial Soul Evolution. I didn't dare delay."
Xu Xuanhan cupped his hands and smiled, though his voice was slightly tight.
Ye Ruilin smiled faintly and turned to lead the way.
"Come with me."
He had risen so early today because he had guessed that Xu Xuanhan might come looking for him at dawn.
The three of them proceeded slowly, passing through three hidden doors before arriving at an underground chamber.
The Moonlight Stones set into the walls emitted a gentle glow, illuminating the mysterious patterns on the floor.
After entering the chamber, Ye Ruilin took out a jade box from his robes. A faint chill radiated from it.
"This Black Tortoise Spirit-Nurturing Grass is the opportunity for your Martial Soul Evolution."
Xu Xuanhan's gaze was immediately drawn to the jade box in Ye Ruilin's hand.
Though it had yet to be opened, he could sense a faint yet irresistible pull, as if what lay inside was immensely important to him.
The instant Ye Ruilin opened the jade box, the temperature throughout the chamber plummeted.
An icy-blue immortal herb lay quietly within. Its nine leaves resembled tortoiseshells, golden liquid flowing through their veins as it emitted a terrifying pressure.
"This..."
Xu Xuanhan's breath caught.
"It is an immortal-grade herb