The day after Mark's shocking victory in the arena, the atmosphere in the sect had yet to settle. Whispers filled the air as disciples looked at him with a mix of awe and wariness. He was no longer just the grandson of a traitor, a man with the blessing of the Phoenix and Blizzard Pegasus—he was now the sect head, a title that carried weight, legacy, and responsibility.
Mark was in his residence, a space he now felt more connected to, having claimed it as his own after the battle. His mind was still whirling with possibilities—how to secure his power, how to protect those he cared about, and how to lead the Azure Frost Dominion to greatness. But before he could plan any further, a soft knock on the door interrupted his thoughts.
"Come in," he called.
The door creaked open, revealing Lan Xia standing in the doorway. Her eyes held a knowing warmth as she stepped inside, closing the door behind her. Her presence was a welcome balm to the chaos swirling around him.
