Chapter 12

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The Queen of Heaven heard Xiang's declaration and laughed softly. Xiang turned to Wen Shia in confusion. "Who is this?" she asked.

Wen Shia smiled gently and replied, "This is the Queen of Heaven, and she is our mother."

Xiang's eyes widened, and she quickly ran toward the Queen, bowing respectfully. "It is an honor to meet you. You are so beautiful," she said warmly, her voice full of admiration.

The Queen smiled, her laughter softening as she looked at Xiang. "You are beautiful too," she said, her tone kind and graceful. "Your eyes speak the truth, and your smile has the power to brighten anyone's heart. You are a sweet girl indeed."

The crowd surrounding them began murmuring in agreement, many of them visibly impressed with Xiang's charm.

However, a girl standing in the corner frowned at Xiang, her displeasure evident. She stepped forward, clinging to Wen Shia and hugging him tightly. "It's been so long since you've come back," she said with a pout. "And who is this girl?"

Wen Shia immediately pushed her away, his tone sharp. "She is my student," he said, gesturing toward Xiang.

Xiang quickly stepped forward, extending her hand. "I'm very happy to meet you," she said politely.

The girl hesitated for a moment before replying, "My name is SuYoung." She was strikingly beautiful, her features delicate and refined.

Xiang smiled warmly. "You are very beautiful," she said sincerely, earning a faint, almost begrudging nod from SuYoung.

After a moment, Wen Shia interrupted. "We should go now," he said. He led Xiang to his home—a grand yet slightly aged house. The garden outside was lush with colorful flowers, and the building's white façade gleamed under the sunlight.

When they entered, Xiang's excitement bubbled over. "This place is beautiful!" she exclaimed.

Wen Shia smiled. "This will be your room," he said, showing her a cozy chamber. "Stay here for now. I have to attend to something and will return shortly."

Left alone, Xiang grew restless. Deciding to explore, she wandered through the flower garden. Her path led her to a secluded area with towering trees and a shimmering barrier. Curious, she moved closer and reached out to touch it.

Suddenly, Wen Shia appeared behind her, his voice sharp with concern. "Stop!"

But it was too late—her hand touched the barrier. Wen Shia rushed forward, his eyes wide with shock. "Did you feel any pain?" he asked urgently.

Xiang shook her head. "No, I'm fine. Why are you so worried?"

Wen Shia frowned deeply. "This barrier is dangerous. No mortal should be able to touch it without harm. You must never come here again—it's too risky."

He led her back to her room, his worry evident. "Please, stay inside. There is danger everywhere, and you don't yet understand this place."

Xiang smiled gently. "You don't need to worry so much about me. I've come a long way already, and I can take care of myself." She climbed onto the bed, teasing him lightly.

Suddenly, a commotion erupted outside. Wen Shia bolted toward the noise, and Xiang followed. Outside, demons were attacking, attempting to breach the barrier.

Wen Shia chuckled, his confidence unwavering. "This barrier is impenetrable. None of you can cross it."

But then, a young man stepped forward. He was strikingly handsome, appearing no older than twenty-five, and wielded a gleaming sword. With a single strike, he shattered the barrier, leaving everyone stunned.

Gasps filled the air as Wen Shia stared in disbelief. "Who are you, and how did you do that?" he demanded.

The young man smirked, his voice dripping with arrogance. "My name is Doming," he said, his eyes gleaming with a dark and unsettling power.