Shen Fei slowly exhaled a breath of stale air. The warm spiritual power deep within his dantian receded along the walls of his meridians, leaving a faint burning sensation that slowly spread through every limb and bone.
He lowered his head to study his palms, closing and opening his fingers. Faint cracks came from his knuckles, each movement carrying a firmer strength than before.
The warmth on his skin slowly faded, replaced by a clear, airy lightness, as though spiritual power had filled every tiny gap inside his body that he normally could not feel, then compacted itself deep into his flesh and bones.
He lingered on the edge of the bed a little longer, letting his breathing settle completely before standing and stretching his shoulders and neck.
A small patch of his outer robe was soaked with sweat, clinging coolly to his back. He changed into a clean gray cloth robe, tightened his belt, and pushed the door open.
The corridor was quiet. Glowing mineral stones were set into recesses in the stone walls overhead, casting an even, cold white light that washed the gray walls pale.
At this hour, most people in the outpost were busy with their own work. Occasionally, the neat, clipped footsteps of guards changing shifts sounded in the distance, then quickly faded.
Shen Fei rounded two corners along the corridor and reached Xiao Ning'er's door. It stood ajar, a sliver of warm yellow lamplight spilling through the gap. He raised his hand and tapped twice on the door.
"Come in." Xiao Ning'er's voice came from inside, accompanied by the soft rustle of turning pages.
Shen Fei pushed the door open and walked in. Xiao Ning'er sat at the table with a somewhat worn inscription diagram spread before her. Its corners curled slightly, and fine