"Master."
It was Lu Xueqi.
Ever since she had been confined to the Cliff of Reflection, her relationship with her master had been frozen.
Although Daoist Daoxuan had later lifted the confinement, a wall still stood between master and disciple.
"Come in."
Master Shuiyue's voice carried a note of weariness.
Lu Xueqi opened the door and stepped inside.
She was still dressed in white, as cold and clear as snow.
But the sharpness that had once filled her eyes had faded, replaced by a young woman's tenderness.
Lu Xueqi walked up to Master Shuiyue and knelt before her.
"Master, there's something I'd like to say."
Her voice was calm and resolute.
Master Shuiyue looked at her without speaking, simply waiting.
"Master, I know you only want what's best for me."
Lu Xueqi began.
"You're afraid I'll be ensnared by love and neglect my cultivation. You're afraid I'll repeat your mistakes and end up heartbroken. I understand your good intentions."
At her words, Master Shuiyue's body trembled.
She had never expected her disciple to see so clearly into her heart.
"But, Master."
Lu Xueqi looked up at Master Shuiyue, her eyes more determined than ever.
"You're wrong."
"I'm not you."
"And he isn't the man from back then."
"Our paths are different from yours."
"My path is different from yours, too."
"What you seek is supreme detachment—to sever worldly ties in pursuit of the Great Way's tranquility."
"But what we seek is to protect: the people we care about, the sect we cherish, and all the living beings under heaven."
"That desire to protect isn't a stumbling block on our path of cultivation. On the contrary, it's the greatest force driving us forward and making us stronger."
"Master, haven't you noticed?"
"Ever since I got together with him, my sword hasn't