The Golden Rat hopped about nearby, squeaking as it circled Lin Fan's feet and rubbed its little head against his trouser leg, as though celebrating. Lin Ruoruo, too, gazed at Lin Fan with wide eyes full of wonder.
Lin Fan swept his gaze over them and smiled faintly.
A moment later, he slowly turned his head, his gaze settling on Chu Lingxi, whose expression still held a trace of affection and tenderness. The warmth of his smile slowly faded, his brows gradually furrowed, and his expression grew solemn and serious.
Chu Lingxi was staring blankly at Lin Fan, still immersed in the shock of seeing him tread the wind and shatter a mountain. Suddenly meeting his solemn gaze, her heart jolted, and she gave a start.
Her heart rose into her throat as she silently wondered whether she had said something wrong or overstepped her bounds somehow. Her lips parted slightly, and she was about to hastily offer an explanation.
Lin Fan spoke first, his voice steady and clear. "Chu Lingxi, don't call me Master anymore. Today, I am ending our formal relationship as master and disciple."
Those words exploded like thunder beside Chu Lingxi's ears. Her body shuddered, and tears instantly welled up in her eyes, the glistening drops swirling there, on the verge of spilling down.
A veil of tears misted her lovely eyes. She looked pitifully at Lin Fan, her voice trembling with choked sobs. "Why... Master? What did your disciple do wrong? Did I displease you?"
Seeing that she was about to cry, Lin Fan quickly softened his tone and gently reassured her. "Lingxi, don't be afraid. I'm not sending you away. I'm only ending our formal relationship as master and disciple. You can still stay with me and live together with Qingwei and Ruo Ruo."