After several days of rest, Xiao Tian's body slowly regained its strength. Though fatigue still lingered, he was able to walk through the garden and enjoy the fresh air.
This place… felt warm in a strange, unfamiliar way.No clashing of blades, no scent of blood—Only the fragrance of wood and grass, and the soft laughter of people.
He sat beneath a willow tree, face tilted toward the sunlight.A gentle breeze rustled the leaves, calming his spirit.
But then...
A whisper echoed within his mind once more.
"You've begun to sense the power…""It still lies deep within… but I'll help you awaken it safely."
Xiao Tian flinched slightly, glancing around.No one was nearby.
That "power"…What was it?
He raised his hand slowly, breathing out just as the old woman had taught him—relax, let the breath flow.
And then—
The flower petals scattered on the ground trembled… and began to rise.
"Wh-what… is this?"
A small voice rang out nearby.
"Did… did you just make those petals float?"
It was the same girl in the sky-blue robe—Bai Ling.The daughter of a visiting noblewoman, who had come to this household on a trade arrangement.
Xiao Tian's cheeks flushed. He quickly lowered his hand.
"I-I didn't mean to…"
Bai Ling smiled, her eyes still fixed on the petals hovering in the air.Then she said softly,
"You're a little strange… but it's beautiful, in a way."
And in that moment—Xiao Tian smiled.Without even realizing it.