The first light of dawn spread across the town. Three days had passed, and Yuan Yu's father had not spoken a single word—his silence alone was permission. His mother, still uneasy, glanced at her husband.
"Why did you allow this?" she murmured.
Leader Zhen gave no reply.
Yuan Yu met Han Liang at the agreed place. Without many words, they mounted their horses and rode out of the town together. At a distance, the Second Commander followed quietly, keeping to the shadows, ready to intervene only if necessary.
The spring air was crisp along the road, carrying the faint fragrance of peach blossoms. They rode side by side, breathing in the fresh air, growing more comfortable in each other's presence. There was no need for many words.
The silence between them felt natural.
After some time, they stopped near a grove of trees where small houses could be seen in the distance. They tied their horses, and Yuan Yu opened the basket, taking out fresh buns and dried meat.
Han Liang smiled faintly.
"You're always this prepared, aren't you?"
"For these two days," Yuan Yu replied, "I want everything to be perfect."
They ate quietly, exchanging small smiles and glances. The moment felt simple—almost peaceful.
Then, a rustle broke the stillness. Han Liang's hand moved to his sword instantly. Yuan Yu stilled, listening.
Their eyes met.
Someone was there.
Four bandits emerged from the bushes, their faces covered, weapons already drawn. They did not hesitate.
They attacked.
Yuan Yu reached for his sword, but before he could move, one of them rushed forward. Han Liang stepped in front of him at once.
"Stay behind me. Don't move," he said firmly. "Follow my lead."
Then he moved.
Fast. Precise.
Like a shadow slipping through light, Han Liang struck one after another, his blade cutting cleanly through the air. The bandits fell in moments.
It was over before it truly began.
Han Liang did not even seem winded.
Yuan Yu stood still, watching, his breath caught in his chest.
"You really are from a warrior sect," he said, a faint smile forming. "I'm certain now. But your style… it's different."
His eyes shone slightly.
"Teach me. How to fight like that."
Han Liang smiled.
"But I'm not too bad, am I?"
Yuan Yu's cheeks warmed.
"I wanted to fight too," he murmured, almost under his breath.
Han Liang tilted his head slightly, stepping closer. The distance between them faded.
"I'll train you," he said quietly.
For a brief moment, neither of them moved.
The air grew warmer.
From a distance, the Second Commander watched in silence. There was no concern in his gaze—only quiet certainty. Han Liang… he thought, carries something far greater than strength He had faced far worse. One day… he will lead.
Han Liang straightened and stepped back.
"Let's move. We shouldn't stay here."
Yuan Yu nodded.
They mounted their horses again and rode on, faster this time. The wind rushed past them, pulling at their hair and clothes, carrying them forward.
By midday, they arrived at a small town neither of them recognized.
Mui Town.
Yuan Yu looked ahead, then spoke firmly.
"First, we find a clean place to stay."
Han Liang let out a small breath of laughter.
"Of course."