18

Lunara's breath came in ragged gasps, her heart pounding as the adrenaline coursed through her veins. But beneath the surface, a grim reality loomed—she felt the poison still coursing through her body, a relentless reminder of her benefactor's betrayal. Time was not on her side, and she could sense that the window for her vengeance was rapidly closing.

Her benefactor, however, appeared unperturbed by her struggles. With a nonchalant air, he ignored her fury, choosing instead to saunter toward the open wall where treasures glimmered enticingly. To him, Lu Zheng was merely a pawn in a larger game, and the allure of power and riches was far more important than the life of a single disciple.

As he walked away, Lunara's heart sank at the realization that he had no intention of finishing their battle; he was content to leave her to her fate. In her mind, time became a distorted blur. Each second felt like an eternity, the weight of her impending demise pressing down on her as she fought against the encroaching darkness that threatened to claim her.

The treasures gleamed in the dim light, each one a testament to the power they held. But for Lunara, they meant nothing compared to the fight she had just endured—the fight for her dignity, the fight for her clan's honor, and the fight against the betrayal that had shattered her world.

As she lay on the cold floor, struggling against the effects of the poison, a flicker of determination ignited within her. She would not let her story end here; she would not allow herself to be discarded like a forgotten relic. In the depths of her mind, she began to formulate a plan—a way to turn the tables and reclaim her agency.

With every ounce of strength she could muster, Lunara began to rise once more, the fire of her spirit refusing to be extinguished. She would confront her benefactor, not just for herself but for every soul that had been lost because of his greed. The treasures may have called to him, but in that moment, it was her tenacity and resolve that would shine the brightest.

As she steadied herself, Lunara knew that the time had come for her to act. The battle may have taken a new turn, but she was not finished yet. She would rise against the tide of despair and reclaim her fate, no matter the cost.