Chen Xuanqing gave him a long, searching look, his voice softening a little. "Jixiang, I know you have principles you refuse to abandon. But I also hope you understand that, sometimes, even inhumane methods are ones I am willing to use to achieve my goals. I have given you all a chance to live. I hope you cherish it."
Jixiang's brows were tightly knitted as he wrestled with himself, a trace of hesitation showing in his eyes.
Sitting opposite him, Chen Xuanqing remained as steady as an unyielding rock, quietly waiting for Jixiang's decision.
Time seemed to freeze, and the time it took an incense stick to burn slipped slowly by in silence.
Tiny beads of sweat seeped from Jixiang's forehead. He drew a deep breath and finally nodded with some difficulty, as though he had laid down a heavy burden in his heart.
At the sight, a flicker of excitement flashed through Chen Xuanqing's eyes.
He rose and said with a smile, "Good. Since you have made your decision, give me those manuals now. I will leave this place immediately and trouble you no further."
After hearing this, Jixiang silently stood and brought over a chair.
Standing on it, he struggled to retrieve a book tightly wrapped in oilcloth from a high shelf.
Then, cradling the book with great care, Jixiang walked up to Chen Xuanqing and solemnly placed it in his hands.
"I hope you keep your promise and spare the people on this island." A hint of pleading entered Jixiang's voice. "And you must spread the teachings in this manual, to give children born without soul power a chance."
Chen Xuanqing accepted the book and nodded solemnly. "Rest assured, I will keep my promise. Not only will you see that happen, you will also see many more