Five years later.
Spirit Hall Empire, the central square of Spirit City.
The sunlight shone brilliantly, yet it paled beside the goddess standing at the top of the steps.
Qian Renxue wore a simple golden gown, the angel patterns along its hem flowing with a faint golden radiance. Her gaze was calm yet carried an innate majesty as she looked down the steps.
Ning Fengzhi stood slightly behind her at her side, his refined face composed.
At the end of the passage, three figures approached at an unhurried pace, their auras ethereal yet powerful.
Ning Rongrong walked at the front. Her former vivacity had given way to a nine-colored radiance, light swirling in her eyes, lending her an air of splendor and serenity.
Zhu Zhuqing remained cool and aloof, but a clear, moonlike glow now suffused her presence. Her silent steps fell into a natural rhythm.
Ye Lingling walked last, her pale green hair brimming with vitality, her expression gentle and clear.
They climbed the steps and came before Qian Renxue and Ning Fengzhi.
"Dad." Ning Rongrong looked at Ning Fengzhi, her smile heartfelt and her eyes slightly red.
Ning Fengzhi nodded with a smile, filled with relief. "What matters is that you're back. It seems you gained far more from this journey than we expected."
Zhu Zhuqing and Ye Lingling also nodded to Ning Fengzhi in greeting.
Only then did Ning Rongrong turn to Qian Renxue, her gaze complicated, carrying surprise, scrutiny, and a lingering estrangement.
Zhu Zhuqing and Ye Lingling also regarded her searchingly.
Qian Renxue met their gazes openly, her smile sincere and faintly apologetic. "Rongrong, Zhu Zhuqing, Lingling, welcome back. I know you still have questions about the past..."
Ning Rongrong drew a light breath, her tone more one of confirmation. "Five years ago, after Lin