Xuan stepped out of the Space Emperor Palace, his expression calm but his steps a little slower, feeling the weight of his injury. The pain was a constant reminder of his limits, yet he knew he couldn't afford to appear weak.
Despite the toll on his soul, he held his head high, confident that his family's presence in the sect protected him from those who might otherwise view his current state as an opportunity.
Xuan thinking to himself : "They may see a wound, They know my family stands behind me."
As he walked through the sect grounds, Xuan could feel the eyes of other disciples and elders on him.
News of his injury had traveled fast, and he could sense their curiosity.
though none dared approach with anything other than respect.
A group of loyal disciples hurried to his side, their faces showing concern.
Disciple 1: "Senior Xuan, we heard that you were injured. Is there anything we can do?"
Xuan smiling faintly said: "Thank you, but I'll manage. This is merely a temporary setback."
Even as they nodded, Xuan sensed others watching from a distance. He caught sight of a group of disciples who exchanged knowing glances, whispering among themselves.
Disciple 2: "They say his soul is injured. But even if he's weaker, his family would never allow anyone to take advantage of it."
Xuan met their gaze with a steady look, reminding them with a single glance of the power his family wielded within the sect. With that, the murmurs quickly died down, and the group dispersed.
Meanwhile, in a secluded part of the sect, a small group of disciples gathered around Elder Liang, an elder with a reputation for knowledge in rare alchemical arts. Although the elder was aware of Xuan's family's influence, he couldn't shake his own ambitions.
Elder Liang with a sly smile said : "It's a shame Xuan is injured… A soul like his could be used for powerful alchemical purposes.
Of course, none of us would be foolish enough to act against him directly. But it is interesting to consider what might be possible, should he leave the sect or travel alone."
One of the disciples nodded, but others looked uneasy, clearly aware of Xuan's family's protective reach.
Disciple 3: "Elder, surely you know that no one would dare lay a hand on Xuan. His family's influence is unmatched."
Elder Liang with a knowing look and said:
"Yes, of course. But who knows what the future holds? Injuries like these have long-term effects, and even the strongest walls have cracks. I'm simply… considering the possibilities."
The others exchanged wary glances. Though they would never directly challenge Xuan, the elder's words hinted at hidden intentions, should the right opportunity arise.