Inner City

At daybreak the next morning, the sky was only beginning to brighten.

The door of Bamboo Charm Cottage quietly opened, and Bi Qiong appeared in the doorway.

She had changed into a brand-new green dress, her long hair pinned up with a simple wooden hairpin. Though her face still bore a trace of pallor, her eyes were already clear and resolute.

Last night's emotional release had swept away much of the confusion and unease in her heart, leaving behind a settled determination.

She glanced back at the tightly shut courtyard gate, took a deep breath, then turned and headed toward Listening Wave Garden with light steps.

Xu Yuan was already waiting in the courtyard of Listening Wave Garden. He still wore that simple green Daoist robe, standing tall and composed, his aura so tranquil that he seemed to blend into the surroundings.

Seeing Bi Qiong approach, he gave a slight nod.

"Senior Brother Xu," Bi Qiong called softly as she drew near.

"Has your state of mind steadied?" Xu Yuan asked.

Bi Qiong nodded firmly. "Thank you for your guidance, Senior Brother. Bi Qiong was rash last night. I will properly carry on Master's legacy, and I will walk the road ahead step by step. Senior Brother need not worry about me."

Her voice was not loud, yet it carried an unyielding strength. The Mysterious Female Talisman Seed slowly circulated through her spirit veins, radiating gentle yet steadfast ripples.

A trace of approval flashed through Xu Yuan's eyes. For her to adjust her mindset so quickly, Bi Qiong's temperament truly deserved praise. He said no more, merely saying, "Good. Today, I will enter the inner city with Master Yun. You should remain here and cultivate in seclusion with peace of mind—stabilize your cultivation and comprehend the Dao of talismans. Keep