Year's End

Early morning, at the National Preceptor's Residence.

Jiang Ning stepped out of the courtyard gate. Someone had cleared a narrow path through the snow ahead.

The strange phenomena from his breakthrough the previous night had long since faded. Now his aura was contained, the silver light in his eyes hidden, leaving only a gentle calm.

The faint crackle of firecrackers and children's laughter beyond the residence lent the winter morning a touch of life.

"Young master, breakfast is ready." Lü Yi came from beneath the corridor eaves, carrying a tray of steaming porridge and pastries.

She smiled as soon as she saw Jiang Ning. "Zhong Ling is helping make dumplings in the kitchen. She says it's a New Year custom where she comes from."

Jiang Ning nodded and followed her toward the dining hall.

His heart was at peace.

He had entered the Hunyuan realm. The hidden dragon had emerged from the depths.

Confidence filled him now. Few people in this world were still worth fearing.

He could already feel the immense power within him.

The human body formed a world unto itself; his flesh had become a domain. Not a trace of power leaked out, but circulated endlessly within.

Now any movement, any casual strike, could draw on the power of his essence, energy, and spirit together, more than doubling its might.

Even he could not say how strong he had become.

But he knew today was different from yesterday.

"Young master, I keep feeling something's changed about you!" Lü Yi said as she walked beside him.

"What's changed?" Jiang Ning asked with a smile.

Lü Yi studied him for a moment, then slowly shook her head. "I can't tell! But you seem much more relaxed. You look more at ease, as if you've suddenly slowed down altogether."

Jiang