For several days, Ye Mingzhi and Chu Xiyue lived like a newlywed couple, teasing each other and enjoying their tranquil life. Their daily routine—sharing breakfast, training, then walking together—had become a peaceful rhythm they both cherished. Yet, as time passed like a fleeting meteor in the night sky, their harmony was quietly disrupted.
Hidden deep within Chu Xiyue's heart were lingering questions about her origins, her bloodline, and whether she still had a family somewhere in the world. She had waited, hoping Ye Mingzhi would offer answers, but his constant response remained: "It's not the right time." Frustrated, the silence finally broke.
"Why isn't it the right time?" she asked, her voice colder than usual. "Are you hiding something from me? I need to know who I truly am. Where do I belong?"
Ye Mingzhi's gaze softened. "If the truth is dangerous... If it's not what you expect—what will you do then? I kept it from you only to protect you. That's all, my little sweetheart."
Her eyes trembled. "I didn't mean to blame you, darling... I just want to understand."
He sighed, gently taking her hand. "I can't hide it forever. You come from another world—the Demon Realm. The answers you seek are there. But going there is no simple task. We'll need a solid plan and strong allies. Only then can we face the dangers ahead."
"You mean… I'm from the Demon Realm?" Chu Xiyue whispered, searching his eyes. "So, the truth lies there?"
He nodded silently.
"Then I'll go." Her voice was firm. "You'll come with me, right? I know you're afraid of losing me again—but I need to grow stronger. I want to fight by your side." Her fingers gently pinched his cheek, her soft voice returning. "Please, darling. I promise I'll listen to you along the way."
After a moment of silence, Ye Mingzhi relented. "All right, my little sweetheart. But you must promise to follow my lead." He stroked her head and held her tightly, sensing her excitement—but inside, he felt bittersweet. He knew the journey ahead would be dangerous and uncertain. To protect her, he needed a plan… and people he could trust.
That night, in the quiet of their room, they discussed their plans. Ever since Chu Xiyue had encountered that assassin, it was clear more danger would follow. The Dao's disciples—or even hired killers—might soon come after them. Facing such odds alone would be reckless.
"We need allies," Ye Mingzhi said. "People we can trust—old friends, loyal to our cause."
Chu Xiyue agreed. She also began gathering herbs and rare ingredients to create potions—healing, antidotes, and paralyzing agents—in case they were outnumbered or trapped in ambushes.
The next day, Ye Mingzhi walked to the western street of Wuya County, where a blacksmith's shop stood near the edge of the city. The shop was known for crafting weapons for the Chu Empire's elite soldiers—but more importantly, its owner was once a trusted follower of Ye Mingzhi: a general from the Heavenly Army, feared even by the Dao.
As Ye Mingzhi stepped inside, the blacksmith paused mid-strike. He felt a familiar presence—an aura he hadn't sensed in ages. Dropping his hammer, he turned, knelt, and spoke, "My Lord… it's really you. Do you need my help?"
Ye Mingzhi nodded. "Indeed, General Lin Huiye. I need you to gather the others—Wu Yue, Zi Ling, Ting Xue. We're heading to the Demon Realm."
"The Demon Realm?" Lin Huiye echoed in disbelief.
"Yes," Ye Mingzhi said gently. "With her."
"Her?" the general asked.
A soft smile rose on Ye Mingzhi's face. "She's returned. Our Lady. She's awakened the demon blood within her. She wants to find her origins—and protect those she loves. I'll join you all soon. Meet me at Qinghuan Inn."
What a powerful bond between a lord and his loyal comrades.
As preparations began for their journey to the Demon Realm, only one thing remained certain—this was a path filled with danger, but Ye Mingzhi was willing to face it all. For the sake of Chu Xiyue—the woman who would heal others without question, the one who challenged the Dao's heartless rule—he would stop at nothing.
Their journey… was just beginning.