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The Central Capital lay in ruins, and despite the relentless efforts of cultivators from across the Great Han Dynasty, the restoration was painfully slow. The rich World Energy that now permeated the city was a blessing, but even with this energy, the work would take years—perhaps more than a decade—to restore the city to its former splendor.
Among the bustling workers, Xia Ning Chang was seated in a shaded area, her delicate hands moving gracefully as she prepared medicinal concoctions. Wearing a simple scarf to shield her from the sun and dust, she concentrated on her task, carefully measuring out herbs and creating elixirs to aid the injured and tired.
Her work was vital, as many cultivators needed the support of medicinal pills to recover from both physical and spiritual injuries sustained during the battle. The ruined capital had become a temporary sanctuary for the wounded, and Xia Ning Chang's healing arts were more valuable than ever.
Despite the focus she placed on her task, her mind often wandered, and every now and then, her hands would pause over the ingredients. A familiar face would flicker in her thoughts, causing her to stop for a moment, her heart heavy.
Xia Ning Chang (thinking to herself, sadness in her eyes): "Where are you, Yang Kai…?"
It had been over six months since Yang Kai had disappeared into the Void Corridor, and though almost everyone believed he was lost, Xia Ning Chang refused to give up hope. She could still feel his presence, as faint as it was, and deep down, she knew he was still alive.
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A Sudden Cry
As she was lost in thought, the sharp cry of a Golden Feather Eagle pierced the sky, its sound familiar yet filled with urgency. The distinct call startled Xia Ning Chang, and she immediately looked up from her work, her heart racing.
Above, the Golden Feather Eagle—the very one that had hovered over the Central Capital since Yang Kai disappeared—shot across the sky, its golden feathers gleaming in the sunlight. For months, it had circled tirelessly, waiting for its master. But today, it suddenly took off, flying away from the capital's borders with purpose.
Xia Ning Chang (her heart pounding, eyes wide with realization): "He's back... Yang Kai is back!"
Without a second thought, she abandoned her work, her form flickering as she rushed to follow the eagle. Her pulse quickened with hope and excitement—something she hadn't felt in so long. She knew it in her heart: Yang Kai had returned.
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Reunion
Roughly thirty kilometers outside the city, Yang Kai was flying through the open skies. He sensed it before he saw it—the familiar golden light streaking toward him. A warm smile spread across his face as the Golden Feather Eagle, his loyal companion, approached.
Yang Kai (softly, to himself): "It's been a long time, old friend."
The eagle circled above him, its call filled with excitement and relief. For a moment, Yang Kai felt a surge of emotion, knowing that his return would mean more than just reuniting with his companion. There were others waiting for him—those who had never given up hope.
As he flew toward the Central Capital, the warmth of the sun at his back, Yang Kai felt a renewed sense of purpose. His journey through the void had changed him, but he knew that this was only the beginning.
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