> "If fate is a straight path, I will be the hand that turns it."
The Azure Heaven Sect was full of activity.
Everywhere Lin Xian looked, disciples were packing robes, spirit herbs, and supplies. The Mortal World Festival was only a few days away, and a group of core disciples would represent the sect—including Shen Tian, Shen Yue, and Li Yueru.
Lin Xian, dressed in simple black robes, quietly walked through the crowd, ignored by most. He preferred it that way. After all, who would notice a quiet outer disciple?
But he wasn't just any outer disciple now.
He had reached the 5th level of Foundation Realm and had created an Eternal Dao Foundation. His strength was hidden, like a blade in the dark.
---
System Notification:
> [Target Update: Shen Yue and Li Yueru preparing to leave in 3 days.]
[Hidden Opportunity: Mortal World Festival contains an ancient inheritance site.]
[Strategy Suggestion: Gain travel access through support mission or disguise.]
---
"Hm… support mission, huh?" Lin Xian muttered, touching his chin.
He headed toward the outer sect mission hall, pretending to be just another curious disciple.
Inside, wooden boards listed missions. He found what he needed:
[Mission #224: Guard and assist sect members during the Mortal World Festival. Only for Foundation Realm disciples and above.]
Perfect.
He signed up.
---
Three days later…
Dozens of flying beasts stood ready near the sect's departure platform. Lin Xian arrived early, his face calm, his aura steady.
He kept his eyes low as the group arrived.
Shen Tian came first, surrounded by fellow core disciples. His white and gold robes sparkled in the sun. He held a sword at his waist, and a proud smirk on his face.
Li Yueru came next, elegant and calm, wearing light blue robes. She greeted a few elders politely.
Then came Shen Yue.
She wore a short, sky-blue robe that matched her bright eyes. Her silver-white hair flowed gently behind her, and her face was beautiful in a soft, cute way—but her eyes were sharp and serious.
She looked around nervously but kept her distance from Shen Tian, who didn't even glance at her.
Lin Xian watched from afar, and the System updated again.
---
[New Scan: Shen Yue]
Mood: Lonely, Stressed, Slightly Hopeful
Favorability: 1 (Curious)
[New Scan: Li Yueru]
Mood: Calm, Protective toward Shen Yue, Doubtful of Shen Tian
Favorability: 1 (Neutral Interest)
---
Lin Xian smiled faintly.
"Time to begin."
As everyone boarded the flying beasts, Lin Xian took his place among the support team.
Soon, they flew over the mountains and clouds, heading toward the Mortal World.
Below, forests, rivers, and cities passed by.
It was beautiful.
But Lin Xian wasn't here to enjoy the view.
He was here to pull two people away from destiny.