However, before Ji Yao could even begin to make sense of the strange feeling that had taken root inside her—
Before she could identify the warmth laced with a sharp edge in her chest—
A loud voice called out from behind:
"Hey, Saintess!"
Everyone instinctively turned to look.
Striding toward them with all the grace of a man who believed the world revolved around his footsteps was Lin Fan.
His robe fluttered dramatically behind him, one hand raised high as he waved like they were old friends reuniting after years apart.
His smile was wide—too wide.
It had that cocky shine that only Lin Fan could wear so confidently.
Right behind him—
Yue Yu followed at an easy pace.
Her own smile was far more subtle, almost secretive.
There was a glint in her eye that didn't match Lin Fan's enthusiasm—no, her joy stemmed from something else entirely.
As she passed by Hei Long, she offered a discreet little wave.
