"Brother Wuji, are you okay?" Murong Haitang asked, concern evident in her voice as she looked at the silent Ying Wuji beside her in Zui Yuexuan.
Women's minds are always delicate, she thought, observing the subtle shifts in Ying Wuji's demeanor. Though typically reserved, Murong Haitang sensed that something weighed heavily on him.
Ying Wuji shook his head, signaling that he was alright, but his actions betrayed a deeper truth. "My time is running out," he whispered, his palm bearing the lingering touch of death.
Seeing this, Murong Haitang couldn't help but sigh. Ying Wuji's technique consumed his vitality, a price he couldn't afford to abolish.
"Judging by Bai Lao's demeanor, it seems he possesses a rare item that replenishes vitality," Ying Wuji remarked, his eyes narrowing in thought.
"Don't you think..." Murong Haitang's voice trailed off, a hint of realization dawning in her eyes.
Ying Wuji nodded subtly. "I plan to enter the imperial city tomorrow and inquire about Bai Lao's source of vitality. I'm prepared to spare no expense for it."
A rare eagerness flickered in Ying Wuji's eyes, a departure from his usual stoicism. Murong Haitang, though hopeful, knew the slim odds of success.
Strange vitality-restoring items were exceedingly rare, their secrets closely guarded by those who possessed them. Even if Bai Lao held the key, obtaining such knowledge would be a daunting task.
Yet, Murong Haitang refrained from dissuading him. Ying Wuji's resolve was unwavering, a trait renowned throughout Lingyun Academy.
"Then I wish you luck," she offered, her words laced with concern.
...
The following day arrived.
As Luo chuan rose to start his morning routine, an unexpected sight greeted him outside his door. Bai Lao and Ji Wuhui stood before his store, their presence catching him off guard.
Though Bai Lao's appearance had changed significantly, Luochuan recognized him immediately.
"Good morning, boss," Bai Lao greeted with a smile, echoed by Ji Wuhui.
"How long have you been here?" Luochuan inquired, his curiosity piqued.
"Not long, just arrived," Ji Wuhui replied, though the truth of their wait remained unspoken.
Satisfied with their response, Luo chuan gestured for them to wait as he went about his morning routine.
Observing Luo chuan's casual demeanor, Ji Wuhui couldn't suppress a sense of astonishment. Despite Luochuan's formidable strength, he displayed an unexpected nonchalance.
As the Great Star, the emperor of the Star Empire, Ji Wuhui anticipated a more deferential reception. Yet, Luochuan's indifference to his status intrigued him.
Rationalizing the situation, Ji Wuhui reassured himself. Such eccentricities were not uncommon among powerful individuals.
Maintaining his composure, Ji Wuhui awaited Luochuan's return, his anticipation tempered by curiosity and respect.