Shi Xuan's eyes widened in surprise. "Are you sure? You know the consequences if he's hurt."
"He wouldn't be here if he couldn't handle it," Tian He replied firmly. "Besides, I won't let you kill him. This is training, not an execution."
Shi Xuan sighed, his voice a low rumble as he turned to Yun Lintian. "Prepare yourself, little sprout. This time, you face no playful serpent."
Yun Lintian straightened his back, a resolute glint in his eyes. "Understood, Senior." He sat down, beginning to recuperate.
Shi Xuan glanced at Tian He, telepathically communicating, "What are you trying to do?"
"Repay a debt of gratitude," Tian He replied gently. "I owe her a big one."
Shi Xuan's expression turned curious. "She defeated you and stripped your power. How can that be a debt of gratitude?"
"Freedom," Tian He responded, a hint of relief in his eyes. "She freed me from that vicious cycle."