A/N: All rights to the original content are reserved by the respective copyright owner.

---

In the heart of Xianzhou Luofu, under the shadow of ancient architecture melded with modern marvels, stood Y/N and Jingliu, watching Jing Yuan train. The once boyish figure had transformed into a formidable man, radiating competence and a kind-hearted persona. His skill with the devastator glaive was matched only by his sleepy nature, a quirk that had become a running joke among the Cloud Knights.

"Look at him, Jingliu," Y/N said, his voice tinged with pride. "From a wide-eyed boy to... this. A fine adult, if not for his search for 'inner peace' in mid-conversations."

Jingliu's chuckle was light, her eyes tracking Jing Yuan's fluid movements across the training field. "I'm proud of him, Y/N. He's come so far under our guidance."

Y/N nodded, his gaze lingering on Jing Yuan. But beneath his proud exterior, a shadow flickered. It wasn't about Jing Yuan; it was about himself. Despite standing tall, his strength felt forced, a facade maintained for the sake of being Xianzhou's symbol of power.

Jingliu, attuned to his moods, broke his reverie. "Y/N, I've been assigned a mission by the Ten-Lords Commission," she announced, her tone unusually solemn.

"Oh?" Y/N's brow arched in mild surprise. "Then let's prepare. What are we waiting for?"

"It's a solo mission, Y/N. I have to go alone." Jingliu's voice faltered, revealing a rare vulnerability.

Y/N's heart tightened at her tone. "A few days apart won't be too hard, Jingliu," he reassured, his voice gentle.

Jingliu's response was almost a cry. "But it is! I won't be with you..."

Without a word, Y/N enveloped her in a comforting embrace, feeling her arms immediately wrap around him in response. "Please, for me," he whispered softly. "You're more than capable. I know it."

Jingliu's reply was a soft mewl, her voice muffled against his chest. "I'll try my best..."

As they parted, Y/N placed his hands on her shoulders, looking into her eyes. "To make it up to you, you can sleep with me on the same bed for two weeks when you return."

The reaction was instantaneous. Jingliu's eyes widened, a bright gleam of happiness replacing the earlier sadness. "Really?" she asked, a smile spreading across her face.

"Yes, really," Y/N chuckled, amused by her sudden shift in mood. "It's a promise."

With one final tight hug, Jingliu stepped back, her smile now firm and confident. "Then I'll hold you to that promise."

Watching her leave, Y/N's chuckle faded into a sigh. The training field, now quieter with Jingliu's departure, felt emptier. He turned his gaze back to Jing Yuan, silently promising himself to be strong, for them, for Jingliu, for Xianzhou Luofu.

---

As the training field emptied, Jing Yuan approached Y/N, addressing him with reverence. "Master Y/N, where has Master Jingliu gone?"

"She's on a solo mission," Y/N replied, his gaze lingering on the horizon.

Jing Yuan's golden eyes widened. "Not with you, Master Y/N?"

Y/N's gaze grew distant, a storm of unspoken thoughts swirling behind his eyes. Jing Yuan shifted uncomfortably under the intensity of that look. Sensing this, Y/N shook his head, breaking the spell. "I apologize, Jing Yuan. Things have been... difficult lately."

Jing Yuan, respectful of his master's personal struggles, offered words he hoped would comfort. "Master, even the darkest night will pass. Things will return to normal."

Y/N managed a small nod, appreciating the sentiment. "Go home, Jing Yuan. Rest."

With a bow, Jing Yuan departed, leaving Y/N alone with his thoughts.

At home, Y/N was greeted by a silence that felt more empty than peaceful. He wandered to the kitchen, his movements automatic. Opening the ice box, he found frozen dumplings and a note from Jingliu, promising the food would last him for days. Y/N smiled, a pang of loneliness softened by her thoughtfulness.

Dinner was a quiet affair. Later, he headed to the training field behind his house, picking up his greatsword. "Well, let's start," he murmured. Under the moonlight, he executed a series of fluid swings, each one a dance of strength and precision. He trained for hours, a ritual to outlast any future foe with endurance and controlled power.

Exhausted, Y/N returned inside, his body slick with sweat. After a shower, he slipped into his sleep attire and collapsed onto the bed, sleep claiming him almost instantly.

In his dream, Y/N encountered the Flint Emperor, its usual greeting disrupted by the presence of another being – Lan, the Aeon of Hunt, a majestic centaur-like figure. Y/N knelt in respect.

"Rise, young warrior," Lan spoke. "I am here to watch over this Heliobi," he said, pointing at the Flint Emperor.

Y/N groaned inwardly, "Now there's two of you in my head?"

The Flint Emperor chuckled, while Lan apologized. Y/N, drained of patience, asked for news.

The Fiery Heliobi grew serious, "In the future, you will walk a tragic path," it said solemnly.

Lan, sensing a familiar energy in Y/N, affirmed the Emperor's words, adding gravitas to the prophecy. The atmosphere was heavy with a sense of impending revelation.

The Flint Emperor, usually so dominant in these encounters, seemed subdued in Lan's presence. Sensing a deeper conversation at hand, Y/N remained silent, his attention focused on the two ethereal beings.

Lan turned his majestic gaze upon the Flint Emperor. "What of the prophecy you mentioned? The one tied to the God?"

At the mention of the God, a visible shiver ran through the Flint Emperor's smoky form, its usual bravado replaced by a hint of fear. Y/N's interest piqued; seldom had he seen such a reaction from the Flint Emperor.

"A prophecy?" Y/N echoed, the weight of the word hanging in the air. "Does this involve me?"

The Flint Emperor remained silent, its fiery eyes flickering with an unreadable emotion. Lan, however, responded with a dignified tone. "In time, you will understand. And when that moment arrives, I shall stand with you, aiding you in your destined path."

Confusion clouded Y/N's expression, the vagueness of Lan's words only deepening the mystery.

"I wish I could reveal more," Lan continued, his voice taking on a grave tone. "But to speak further risks the wrath of the God. His power is such that even speaking of certain truths could erase me from existence, altering the course of history in Xianzhou."

Y/N's eyes widened, a mix of shock and concern evident. "This God... is he truly that powerful?"

Lan's reply came hesitantly, his words tinged with a past trauma that seemed to echo through his voice. "More than you can imagine, young one. His reach extends beyond what even we, the Aeons, can comprehend."

The revelation left Y/N reeling, his mind racing with the implications of Lan's words. The presence of such a powerful being, one capable of erasing an Aeon, was a thought that filled him with both awe and dread.

As the dream began to fade, Y/N found himself back in his bed, the morning light creeping through the curtains. He lay there for a moment, the remnants of the dream lingering in his consciousness. The day ahead seemed trivial compared to the cosmic revelations of his dream, yet he knew he must face it, carrying the burden of this newfound knowledge.

With a heavy heart, Y/N rose from his bed, the encounter with Lan and the Flint Emperor casting a long shadow over his thoughts. As he prepared for the day, he couldn't shake the feeling that his life was on the cusp of something monumental, a path that would test him in ways he had never imagined.

After his usual routine, Y/N walked through Xianzhou Luofu, his greatsword a silent companion. Passersby glanced at him with a mix of awe and curiosity.

Then a voice called out to him. Y/N turned towards the source and saw a foxian. Her silver-purple hair, deep azure eyes, and ethereal charm struck a chord in Y/N's heart, reminding him of his adoptive mother. Overcome with emotion, a solitary tear escaped down his cheek.

The foxian recoiled slightly upon noticing Y/N's tear. Her voice laced with concern, she apologized, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you."

Y/N brushed the tear away, a small smile gracing his lips. "No need to apologize. You just reminded me of someone dear... my adoptive mother."

The woman's ears twitched with curiosity. "Was she also a foxian?"

"No," Y/N replied, a distant look in his eyes. "But she was as much a mother to me as any could be."

"Ahhh, I see," she responded, her tone respectful.

Clearing her throat, the foxian introduced herself. "I'm Baiheng, a member of the Nameless."

Y/N nodded in acknowledgment. "Y/N, commander of the Xianzhou Alliance."

Baiheng's eyes sparkled with recognition. "Ah, yes! The legendary duo who struck fear into the Denizens of Abundance. I've heard tales of you and Jingliu."

Y/N, slightly embarrassed, rubbed the back of his head. "Those are just stories."

Baiheng's gaze turned playful. "Actually, I was hoping you could help me with something."

Y/N raised an eyebrow. "What do you need?"

Baiheng hesitated for a moment before asking, "Would you accompany me on a mission? It's nothing dangerous, just... laborious."

"To be honest, I could use a distraction," Y/N admitted. "Sure, I'll help."

Baiheng blinked in surprise. "You're agreeing just like that? You don't want to know more?"

Y/N shrugged. "I trust my instincts. They haven't failed me yet. Lead the way."

Baiheng appeared slightly flustered. "You're quite trusting. Aren't you worried about being tricked?"

"I've faced worse," Y/N said with a chuckle. "Besides, I can handle myself."

With a sigh, Baiheng motioned for him to follow. As they walked, Y/N couldn't help but notice the attention Baiheng drew, her movement graceful and unintentionally captivating. He quickly pushed the thought aside, wondering why he was almost comparing her to Jingliu.

Upon reaching the Starskiff port, the crowd's admiration was palpable. Y/N, curious, asked, "You pilot a Starskiff?"

"Yes," Baiheng replied with a foxy grin. "Have you read about the Nameless? Our stories?"

Y/N confessed, "I'm familiar with some tales, mainly about your allegiance to Akivili, the Aeon of Trailblaze."

Baiheng's cheerfulness returned. "Well, I'll tell you more on our way. It's quite a story."

As they boarded the Starskiff, Y/N felt a sense of anticipation. It had been a long time since he'd ventured into something unknown, and despite the mundane nature of the task, it promised a change from the routine that had become his life.

---

The hum of the Starskiff blended with Baiheng's melodious tune, creating a soothing ambiance in the cockpit. Y/N, his eyes still closed, continued to gently caress his greatsword, a silent guardian at rest.

Baiheng glanced over at Y/N, her azure eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and playfulness. "You know, I promised to tell you more about the Nameless," she said, her voice breaking the tranquility.

Y/N's eyes fluttered open, a hint of embarrassment crossing his face. "Ah, yes, I apologize. I got lost in thought."

Baiheng let out a playful hmph but then dove into her tales. She spoke of Akivili, the Aeon of Trailblaze, and his journey across the universe. "He believed that by connecting different worlds, he was weaving a tapestry of unity and understanding."

Listening intently, Y/N felt a sense of admiration for Baiheng's fervor. "You truly respect Akivili, don't you?" he asked, genuinely curious.

Baiheng chuckled softly. "Of course! His vision inspires us all. What about you? Any figures or ideals that inspire you?"

Y/N gazed at the ceiling, lost in a sea of memories. "There's much I've accomplished," he began, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "But I've always felt as if something's holding me back, an invisible barrier to my true potential."

Sensing his inner turmoil, Baiheng offered words of comfort. "You must have a dream, right? Don't worry, you can share it with me."

After a moment's hesitation, Y/N shared a childhood aspiration. "I once dreamed of capturing and preserving memories in bubbles, to relive them at will. It sounds foolish, I know."

Baiheng's eyes widened slightly. "That's quite a dream. The Aeon of Remembrance, Fuli, presides over such domains, but it's a tricky thing, meddling with memories."

"Fuli..." Y/N murmured, the name echoing his own thoughts.

"Yes, Fuli, the Aeon of Remembrance," Baiheng reiterated. "But hey, we're friends now, and I'll make sure our memories are etched in our minds forever!"

Y/N's lips curved into a genuine smile. "Friends, huh? That's... a comforting thought. Thank you, Baiheng."

As the Starskiff approached the warehouse, Y/N gazed at the colossal structure, its futuristic design and levitating base a stark contrast to the traditional architecture of Xianzhou. "I've never been here before," he admitted, a note of wonder in his voice.

Baiheng's expression shifted to one of shock. "The esteemed commander hasn't visited Xianzhou's central storehouse? That's almost hard to believe!"

Y/N's face reddened slightly, caught off guard by his own lack of experience in this regard.

As they landed, Baiheng explained her simple need for Y/N's strength. "I need you to lift and move some heavy items. I'm not exactly built for heavy lifting," she said, flexing her arms in a mock display of muscle.

Y/N chuckled. "Sounds straightforward enough," he replied, stepping out of the Starskiff and into the warehouse.

Inside, the warehouse was a labyrinth of technology and stored goods, a testament to Xianzhou's prosperity and advanced capabilities. Y/N looked around in awe, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling environment.

Baiheng, noticing Y/N's fascination, teased, "Welcome to the future, Commander. Ready to do some heavy lifting?"

Y/N nodded, a newfound energy in his step. "Lead the way, Baiheng. Let's see what this warehouse has in store for us."

---

As Y/N and Baiheng ventured deeper into the warehouse, the bustling activity around them was a vivid tapestry of Xianzhou's advanced capabilities. Y/N observed with keen interest the robotic androids that moved with precise coordination, their ancient designs a striking contrast to their modern functionality. Baiheng, accustomed to this sight, navigated through the warehouse with ease.

Approaching a massive door that resembled a gate to a fortress, Y/N's gaze fell upon a group of Cloud Knights guarding the entrance. Their elite armor shimmered with a silvery sheen, signifying their high rank and the importance of their duty.

Realizing Baiheng's intentions, Y/N turned to her with a serious expression. "So, you needed me for access?" he asked, his tone reflecting a mix of understanding and slight reproach.

Baiheng, sensing his realization, fidgeted nervously. "Sorry," she murmured, her ears drooping slightly in apology.

Observing Baiheng's guilt-stricken demeanor, Y/N's features softened. Without thinking, he reached out and gently patted her head, a gesture of reassurance. Baiheng's reaction was immediate; she blushed and stammered, clearly flustered by his touch.

"Let's just get this over with," Y/N said gently, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

As they approached the guarded gate, the Cloud Knights shifted their attention from Baiheng to the figure beside her. Upon recognizing Commander Y/N, they immediately kneeled, placing their hands on their weapons in a sign of utmost respect.

"Commander Y/N! We would have prepared a formal welcome had we known of your arrival," exclaimed the leader of the knights, his bulky armor adding to his imposing presence.

Y/N raised a hand, signaling for them to rise. "At ease, everyone," he commanded. As the knights stood, he continued, "I'm here to assist my friend in retrieving some items. Could some of you lend a hand?"

The knights saluted in unison, their weapons thumping against the floor. "At your command, Commander," they responded.

Y/N gave a nod of approval. "I'll only need a few of you. The rest, maintain your posts."

"As you wish, Commander!" they chorused.

Baiheng watched the scene with a mix of admiration and gratitude. "Thank you for doing this, Y/N," she said, her voice carrying a newfound serenity.

Y/N turned to her, his smile genuine and warm. "Anything for a friend," he replied, his simple words carrying a depth of sincerity.

Together, accompanied by a handful of knights, they entered through the grand gate. Inside, the warehouse revealed rows of neatly stacked crates, technological marvels, and artifacts of unknown origins. Y/N's eyes scanned the vast collection, a sense of wonder momentarily overtaking him.

Baiheng led the way, pointing out the items she needed. The knights, efficient and disciplined, began the task of carefully moving the designated crates. Y/N, with his remarkable strength, lifted and carried items with ease, his movements a testament to his enduring physical prowess.

As they worked, the atmosphere was one of mutual respect and camaraderie, the knights sharing occasional glances of awe towards their commander. Baiheng, observing Y/N's effortless leadership and strength, felt a surge of appreciation for the man who had come to her aid so willingly.

The task was completed with efficiency, and as they prepared to leave, the knights offered their salutes once more. "Safe travels, Commander Y/N, Lady Baiheng," they said in unison.

With the heavy items securely stored in the Starskiff, Y/N and Baiheng shared a moment of quiet acknowledgment. "Well, that went smoothly, thanks to you," Baiheng said, her tone lighthearted.

Y/N chuckled softly. "It's all in a day's work. Let's get these back to where they belong."

As they departed the warehouse, the respect and admiration of the knights lingered in the air, a testament to the legacy of Y/N, a commander whose authority was matched only by his compassion and strength.

---

Y/N and Baiheng arrived at the bustling district of Xianzhou Zhuming, a place where the hum of activity never ceased. Their task was to deliver crucial items for General Huaiyan's latest project – an endeavor shrouded in his typical eccentricity.

Y/N, upon realizing the recipient, let out an exasperated sigh. "Had I known these were for Huaiyan, I could've made our task much simpler."

Baiheng gave a playful, mischievous smile, sticking out her tongue in jest. Y/N couldn't help but feel slightly irritated by her carefree demeanor.

General Huaiyan, with his characteristic joviality, greeted them at the port. His eyes widened in surprise upon seeing his friend. "Y/N, what an unexpected pleasure!" he exclaimed with genuine warmth.

Y/N, slightly taken aback, returned the greeting. "Huaiyan, I wasn't expecting to cross paths with you today," he replied.

Huaiyan's gaze shifted to Baiheng, his expression turning teasing. "And who might this charming companion be, Y/N?"

Quick to set the record straight, Baiheng clarified, "Oh, no, it's not like that. I merely sought his help for this task."

Y/N, unfamiliar with the nuances of such situations, agreed bluntly, "Yes, she's just a friend."

Their words seemed to ripple through the crowd, sparking a flurry of whispers and speculative glances. "Commander Y/N has a girlfriend!" one soldier whispered loudly to another, setting off a chain of excited murmurs.

Y/N, puzzled, responded, "Girlfriend? I consider her a friend, indeed."

Baiheng blushed, her ears twitching in embarrassment, as Huaiyan's men began to celebrate this new development. Y/N's confusion only deepened.

Sensing Y/N's discomfort, Huaiyan leaned in closer. "Y/N, do you not have... feelings for Jingliu?" he asked softly, his tone laced with concern.

Y/N stopped in his tracks, the question catching him entirely off guard. He had never contemplated his relationship with Jingliu in a romantic light. They were comrades, nothing more. "I... I'm not sure," he murmured, his voice trailing into uncertainty.

Huaiyan observed Y/N with a mix of sympathy and understanding. It seemed to him that Y/N had been so consumed by his duties that he had lost touch with his personal desires.

Huaiyan then looked deeper into Y/N. "So, you're merely friends with her, not romantically involved?"

Y/N nodded in confirmation, but the gossip around them had already taken flight.

Huaiyan sighed and raised his voice to address his men. "Men, we have a mission to focus on. Let's get back to work!" The soldiers, momentarily distracted, quickly resumed their tasks.

After the commotion subsided, Huaiyan stepped forward, looking sincerely at Y/N and Baiheng. "I'll arrange accommodations for you both at a local hotel. Consider it an apology for the mix-up."

Y/N accepted the offer with a nod, his mind still preoccupied with Huaiyan's earlier question about Jingliu.

Baiheng, though appreciative, was concerned about reporting back on the mission. Huaiyan assured her, "I'll handle the report. You two have earned a rest."

As they strolled through the golden architecture of Xianzhou Zhuming, whispers followed them, people speculating about Y/N's new 'romantic' involvement. Baiheng felt uneasy under the weight of their stares, but Y/N, sensing her discomfort, draped his cape over her shoulders in a protective gesture.

They reached the hotel arranged by Huaiyan, a grand establishment usually reserved for nobles and high-ranking officials. The staff, pre-informed by Huaiyan, greeted them with respect but also with curious glances. To their surprise, there was only one suite available – a lavish affair meant for dignitaries.

Y/N, lost in thought, placed his greatsword against the wall and sat down heavily, his mind a whirlwind of emotions and revelations. Baiheng, removing her fur coat, revealed a form-fitting outfit that outlined her athletic physique.

Y/N looked at her, a hint of admiration in his eyes. "Your physical condition is impressive," he commented.

"Thank you," Baiheng replied, her voice tinged with a mix of pride and embarrassment.

Seeking clarity amidst his internal turmoil, Y/N turned to Baiheng. "I've been meaning to ask you about something – your views on talent?"

Baiheng, busy arranging for their dinner, paused to consider his question. "Talent, huh? I see it as a head start in honing a skill. It's what you choose to do with it that matters."

Y/N nodded, reflecting on her words. "I've always felt constrained, as if something is holding me back. I'm just... lost."

In the hushed ambiance of the luxurious suite, Y/N and Baiheng found themselves engrossed in a conversation that flowed as easily as the soft, golden light around them.

Baiheng, sensing Y/N's introspective mood, gently probed, "You seem to carry the world on your shoulders. But beyond duty, what is your personal dream? Don't worry; I'm here to listen, not to judge."

Y/N, typically reserved about his deeper aspirations, felt an unexpected ease with Baiheng. "My dream... it's always been about strength," he confessed, his voice tinged with a raw honesty. "Not just physical strength, but the kind that can safeguard those I care about. It's not about being a hero; it's about being there when it matters most."

Baiheng nodded, her azure eyes reflecting a deep understanding. "To protect and to care — that's a powerful dream. True strength, after all, is about the impact you have on others, not just the battles you win."

There was a pause as Y/N contemplated her words. "It's just... sometimes I feel like I'm chasing an ideal that's always just out of reach," he admitted, the weight of his thoughts momentarily shadowing his expression.

"Perhaps it's not about reaching a destination," Baiheng suggested thoughtfully. "Maybe it's about the journey, the people you protect and inspire along the way."

Y/N looked at Baiheng, a sense of gratitude in his eyes. "You have a way of making things seem clearer," he said with a small, appreciative smile.

"We're friends, right?" he asked, seeking confirmation of the bond that had formed between them.

Baiheng's response was a smile as warm as the light that filled the room. "Yes, Y/N, we are friends. And friends are there to remind each other of their worth, especially when they forget."

Their conversation continued into the night, with Baiheng sharing tales of her travels and Y/N reflecting on his journey as a commander. Each story and shared laughter wove a stronger thread in the fabric of their friendship.

Outside, the city of Xianzhou Zhuming hummed with life, but within the confines of their suite, there was a tranquility that allowed Y/N to feel a rare sense of peace. Y/N and Baiheng found solace in their shared conversation, each finding comfort in the other's presence amidst the uncertainty of their respective journeys.

---

After their long conversation ended, in the tranquil suite, the rhythmic sound of Baiheng's breathing indicated her deep slumber on one of the king-sized beds. Y/N, sitting cross-legged on his own bed, slipped into a meditative state, his consciousness drifting into the dream realm. There, he found the Flint Emperor and Lan, the Aeon of Hunt, engaged in what seemed like a heated but friendly conversation, a stark contrast to their usual enmity.

Approaching them cautiously, Y/N's arrival shifted their attention. The Flint Emperor greeted him with its thunderous voice, while Lan offered a simple nod. The conversation quickly turned serious as the Flint Emperor revealed its awareness of Y/N's presence in Zhuming.

Y/N seized the opportunity to address a long-standing question. "Why do you incessantly invade my thoughts? Your visits are becoming... overwhelming." he asked, a tinge of frustration in his voice.

The Flint Emperor, with a dismissive shrug, responded with a mixture of nonchalance and boredom. "I find your mind more stimulating than Huaiyan's constant wariness. It's quite tiresome to converse with someone so... rigid."

Lan, with arms crossed, chimed in, "Huaiyan is right to be cautious. After all, you're not just a dragon; you're a key source of Xianzhou's energy."

The atmosphere abruptly heated up, the realm becoming unbearably hot, but Lan intervened, his energy forming a protective barrier around Y/N. The Aeon's command brought the realm back to normalcy, reining in the Flint Emperor's fiery display.

The Flint Emperor's mood soured, but it addressed Y/N's question. "Despite your reluctance, you listened and learned from me. You saw beyond the beast, recognizing an intelligent entity. For that, I respect you," it confessed, surprising both Y/N and Lan.

Y/N, taken aback, bowed slightly. "I apologize for misunderstanding your intentions. I've always seen you as more than just a mythical creature."

The Flint Emperor exhaled a fiery breath, its pride slightly bruised yet understanding Y/N's point of view.

Lan, witnessing their mutual understanding, felt a glimmer of hope for the Heliobi's redemption.

Breaking the brief harmony, Lan, playing the mediator, shifted the topic. "Y/N, we need to discuss the unusual energy emanating from the artifacts you transported."

Y/N hearing that was initially skeptical, suspecting Baiheng, but then Lan clarified, "It's not from your Foxian companion; it's something else, triggered by your presence."

Intrigued, Y/N inquired about the artifact. Lan revealed its origin, "It's an ancient artifact, predating even my ascension. Crafted by Yaoshi for instant healing. Its power is immense, capable of mending even the deepest wounds of the heart."

Realizing the artifact's potential danger in the wrong hands, Y/N grew concerned. "What should we do? If such an artifact falls into the wrong hands..."

Lan nodded gravely. "Exactly. We must ensure it remains secure." the Aeon's grim affirmation only deepened Y/N's worry.

The Flint Emperor then interjected, "I'll speak to Huaiyan. It seems this matter requires immediate attention."

As the conversation wound down, the Flint Emperor jokingly shooed Y/N away, prompting an indignant yet playful response from him. Lan, struggling to contain his laughter, gently ushered Y/N back to consciousness, emphasizing the need for rest.

Y/N found himself back in the physical world, only minutes having passed since his meditation began. He let out a weary sigh and decided to surrender to a dreamless sleep, his mind still processing the revelations and the looming responsibility they entailed.

As sleep finally embraced him, the events of the day and the mysteries of the dream realm blended into a tapestry of unanswered questions and uncharted paths. The night in Xianzhou Zhuming passed quietly, with Y/N's slumber undisturbed by further visions, offering him a rare respite from the burdens of his role and the enigmatic guidance of the celestial beings.

---

Y/N woke up to a new day, his mind still heavy with the revelations from his dream. He yawned and stretched, his muscles slightly stiff from yesterday's exertions. Rising from the bed, he made his way to the shower room, his thoughts wandering to the tasks ahead.

Upon entering, Y/N was abruptly brought back to reality. There, in front of him, stood Baiheng, clad only in a towel, her silver-purple hair damp from a recent shower. Her azure eyes widened in shock, and her cheeks flushed a deep crimson.

"Y-Y/N!" she stammered, her voice a mix of embarrassment and surprise.

Realization dawned on Y/N, and he opened his mouth to apologize, but before he could form the words, Baiheng's hand connected sharply with his cheek. The force of her slap sent him stumbling backward, out of the shower room.

Rubbing his stinging cheek, Y/N regained his balance. "I'm sorry, Baiheng! I didn't realize you were in there," he called out, his tone apologetic.

From behind the closed door, Baiheng's flustered voice responded, "Just... just give me a moment, okay? Please stay out!"

Y/N nodded, despite knowing she couldn't see him. "Of course. My apologies again," he said, slightly embarrassed by the misunderstanding.

He retreated to the main area of the suite, waiting for Baiheng to finish. As he sat there, the awkwardness of the situation weighed on him, a stark contrast to his usual confident demeanor.

Baiheng eventually emerged, dressed and looking somewhat composed, though her cheeks still held a hint of red. "I'm sorry for overreacting," she said, her tone more controlled now.

Y/N offered a gentle smile. "No harm done. It was an honest mistake. I should have knocked."

The tension in the air began to dissipate as they shared a moment of mutual understanding. Y/N then stood up, ready to start the day. "Shall we head out? There are still matters we need to attend to," he suggested.

Baiheng nodded, her earlier embarrassment fading away. "Yes, let's. We have a busy day ahead of us."

Together, they left the suite, stepping out into the bustling streets of Xianzhou Zhuming. The city was already alive with activity, its inhabitants going about their daily routines. Y/N and Baiheng blended into the flow, each lost in their thoughts about the day ahead and the strange turn of events that had brought them together.

But there was one thing that Y/N forgot to do, and that was:

"... I forgot to take a shower."

---

End of Chapter