As Zhao Ming's caravas, Murong Xue makes her way to her father’s office, preparing for her return to her sect. The corridors of the Muroe are quiet, save for the occasional sounds of g metal from guards practig.

  Inside, Murong Jin is in versation with Old Mahe family's master bcksmith. The old man strokes his beard as he is a newly fed bde, nodding in satisfa. Wheers, both men g her, pausing their discussion.

  “We were just talking about Zhao Ming,” Murong Jin remarks with a grin. “It’s rare for you to take i in someoside the family, let alone give them your sect token.”

  Old Man Wei chuckles, his deep voice carrying the weight of years. “Not to mention, you even taught him the basics of the saber. That’s not something you do lightly, Lady Xue.”

  Murong Xue crosses her arms, her expression calm. “He has a sharp mind. His uanding of strategy is impressive, even without formal training.”

  The bcksmith nods in approval. “And not just strategy. That boy has a keen sense for craftsmanship as well. He introduced me to a new f method—stronger metal, better durability. Even dreon designs for those three sworn brothers.” He gestures toward a nearby table where blueprints of bdes and a spear y open.

  Murong Jin leans back with a thoughtful smile. “It’s good that you gave him your token. Keeping in touch with someone like Zhao Ming could be valuable iure.”

  Old Man Wei suddenly chuckles, a knowing glint in his eye. “A token, huh? Sounds almost like an e gift to me.”

  Murong Xue’s brow twitches, but she remains posed. Murong Jin ughs, nodding in agreement. “It’s true! You’ve paid more attention to Zhao Ming than to your own siblings.”

  A faint blush creeps ont Xue’s cheeks as she pouts slightly. “You two are insufferable.” She huffs, turning her head away. “I simply reize talent when I see it.”

  Old Man Wei grins, sharing an amused gh Murong Jin. “Of course, of course.”

  Murong Xue exhales, shaking her head. “Believe what you want.” She then straightens her posture and adds, “I will be returning to my se the couple of days with my sect brother and sister.”

  Murong Jin gives her a nod of uanding. “Safe travels, the’s hope we hear mood things about Zhao Ming iure.”

  Without another word, she turns and leaves, though a small, almost imperceptible smile pys on her lips.