Good and Evil in Human Hearts

The rock-walled passage was thick with the damp, earthy smell of soil. Every step on the gravel-strewn ground echoed and refracted through the cramped space, intertwining with the occasional drip of water from the ceiling into a monotonous, profound rhythm.

Shen Yuxi walked silently at the very front of the group, his longsword slung at his waist. A faint, nearly imperceptible gleam of spiritual power lingered around his slender fingertips at all times—this was a habit he had developed over many years, using his own spiritual power as feelers to keenly probe for dangers that might be lurking nearby.

After who knew how long they had been walking, something suddenly occurred to him. Without stopping, he merely turned his head slightly and looked toward the disciple not far behind him, the one who had earlier volunteered to "scout the way."

The man was bent over, examining the traces on the ground. Strands of hair across his forehead were damp with sweat, and the lines of his profile still carried a youth's immaturity. Yet the focused expression on his face as he observed and the caution beyond his years in every movement made one unable to help but take a second look.

"Name?" Shen Yuxi's voice was not loud, but it was exceptionally clear, easily piercing through the rustle of footsteps and dripping water in the passage.

The disciple froze for a moment. He raised his head uncertainly, and after confirming that this aloof senior brother was indeed speaking to him, hurriedly stood up.

His right hand instinctively scratched the back of his head. The tips of his ears visibly reddened, and an embarrassed, honest look appeared on his face. "Reporting to Senior Brother, my name is Xu Ershao."

Shen Yuxi maintained his steady pace, but his brows drew together almost