The next day, when Xiao Fan and the others emerged from the Pavilion, the members of Pan Gate were already waiting on either side of the road, their bright, intent gazes fixed on the leaders.
The rising sun shone over them. Looking at the Pan Gate members lining the road, Xiao Yan waved and strode forward. The disciples on both sides fell into step behind him without a word, forming an impressive procession.
After spotting Yue Yao halfway there, Xiao Fan quietly moved to her side. With leisurely steps, the two chatted and laughed as they headed toward the Heavenly Flame Qi Refining Tower.
Before they knew it, the two had fallen to the very back of Pan Gate's procession.
Looking at the grand procession of Pan Gate members ahead, Yue Yao turned to Xiao Fan, her large eyes brimming with curiosity. "Why aren't you the leader?"
Xiao Fan smiled and glanced at the people following Xiao Yan ahead, a satisfied smile curling his lips. "Hmm... I'm not particularly interested in any of that. I just want to cultivate and grow stronger."
"Grow stronger? Why?"
At Yue Yao's question, Xiao Fan paused, a trace of uncertainty flashing through his eyes. "Yes... why?"
Because if I don't work hard to grow stronger, I'll die in the end? Because after crossing into another world, there doesn't seem to be anything to pursue besides cultivation?
Why, really?
Yue Yao's offhand question had instead plunged Xiao Fan into a brief spell of uncertainty. His steps gradually slowed until he finally stood still, head lowered as he pondered the meaning of his cultivation.
Am I afraid of dying? I certainly am. But now that I've seen so much scenery and met so many people, it seems... I'm not quite so afraid anymore?
*Have I ever