Late-Night Visitor

Zhu Zhuqing withdrew her gaze, turned, and headed for the stairs, leaving behind a chilly remark. "I'm going back to my room."

From beginning to end, she never looked at Dai Mubai again.

Cinderella gently tugged Tang San's hand. "Tang San, let's go back too."

Tang San nodded, clasping his sister's cool hand in return. Feeling the lingering cold sweat in her palm, the last trace of hostility in his heart dissipated, replaced by heartache and guilt.

"Sis, I'm sorry. I scared you."

"It's fine." Cinderella shook her head, revealing a slightly weary smile. "Let's go back."

The two ignored everyone else and headed toward the stairs side by side.

As he passed Zhao Wuji, Tang San paused slightly, turned his head, and said in an icy voice only the two of them could hear:

"Teacher Zhao, there won't be a next time."

Zhao Wuji's body stiffened, but he did not respond.

Tang San did not linger. He took Cinderella upstairs and returned to his room.

The door closed, shutting out everything beyond it.

Cinderella finally relaxed completely and sat at the bedside, though her face remained somewhat pale.

Tang San poured her a cup of warm water and handed it over, his eyes full of self-reproach. "Sis, I was useless. I couldn't get there sooner..."

"It's not your fault." Cinderella accepted the cup and took small sips, her azure eyes fixed on Tang San. "Tang San, was that the Dragon Beard Needle you used earlier?"

"Yeah." Tang San nodded. "In that situation, it was the only thing I could use."

"Its power really is terrifying," Cinderella said softly. "Even a Soul Sage couldn't withstand it. But you still need to use it carefully in the future. It draws too much attention."

"I know." Tang San sat beside Cinderella and