Han Yu was at the Alchemy Peak's Pill refinement pavilion area, carefully organizing a new batch of healing and recovery pills that had been specially ordered for returning disciples.
The outer court was abuzz with movement, with injured inner court disciples returning from sudden recall orders, some limping, others just drained of energy and composure.
That was when he saw her.
At first, he almost didn't recognize her.
Xuan Qing.
The same Senior Sister who had basically kidnapped him over three years ago from a tavern in his hometown. Back when he was nothing more than a weak but smart boy hiding secrets in his sleeves or just cards.
Now, she looked… well, not injured, but clearly exhausted.
Her usually immaculate robes were wrinkled and travel-stained, her long hair slightly disheveled, and her pale skin lacked its usual healthy glow.
