Afterwards Accountability . . .
Following Han Bingxue's words, the disciples of Saint Sunlight Sect began to place their trust in him. However, a lingering thought crossed their minds. They couldn't help but wonder why the Frost Sword, known for his icy and indifferent demeanor, appeared so warm and amiable today. The realization dawned on them as they considered that he was accompanying his son, Cha Eun Xiao, for the day. It made sense that he wanted to facilitate connections and protect his son from potential bullies in the martial world.
As expected, Han Bingxue continued, expressing his concerns for his son's future endeavors in the martial world. He implored the disciples to look out for Cha Eun Xiao, which put their worries at ease. The disciples readily assured him of their assistance and willingness to help his son in any way they could.
However, one disciple couldn't resist addressing the sensitive topic that had been on everyone's mind: the relationship between Han Bingxue and the legendary Xiao Monarch. The other disciples felt a mix of anxiety and relief, as they had all been curious about this matter but hesitant to bring it up themselves. They watched in apprehension as the man initiated the discussion, fearing that his inquiry might have dire consequences.
Han Bingxue's expression darkened upon hearing the question, and he remained silent for a moment, causing an awkward atmosphere to descend upon the group. The nervous disciples began to regret the decision to broach the subject. The silence that followed only deepened their unease.
Eventually, Han Bingxue responded, expressing his reluctance to discuss the matter and hinting that it required further consideration. He then abruptly departed, leaving behind a sense of coldness. Cha Eun Xiao hurriedly followed, and the relieved disciples finally obtained a fragment of the truth.
As they discussed the encounter among themselves, they concluded that Han Bingxue's loyalty lay more with their Prime Master, Cha Nantian, rather than with Xiao Monarch. The disciples recognized that Han Bingxue had been visibly affected by the mention of Xiao Monarch and his prolonged absence from the martial world. Their relief turned into a sense of regret, as the disciple who had initiated the inquiry berated himself for his rashness.
[In the end, it appears our Prime Master takes precedence in Han Bingxue's heart.]
[Despite his friendship with Xiao Monarch, Han Bingxue's attachment to our Prime Master is evident.]
[He seemed truly saddened when Xiao Monarch was mentioned.]
[Two years without showing his face – that speaks volumes.]
[Our Prime Master holds a special place in his heart, that much is certain.]
The disciple who had raised the sensitive question couldn't help but feel foolish in hindsight.
As Han Bingxue and Cha Eun Xiao left the disciples of Saint Sunlight Sect behind, Cha Eun Xiao couldn't help but berate himself for raising such a sensitive question. Even though Han Bingxue wouldn't hold it against him, he knew that his Prime Master, Cha Nantian, would not be so forgiving.
Han Bingxue emitted a somber humph and sighed deeply. "Events unfold amid the storms of the martial world. No one can be unwaveringly loyal," he mused, his tone heavy with unspoken emotions buried deep within.
His words resonated with the disciples, who also sighed, understanding that Han Bingxue bore hidden sorrows that he couldn't express openly.
Han Bingxue fell silent, leaving the men of Saint Sunlight Sect to walk alongside him and Cha Eun Xiao with utmost respect. They generously offered food and drinks, even arranging a feast in their honor. Despite the feast, Han Bingxue's mood remained clouded with sorrow, as if he was haunted by painful memories he couldn't escape.
Once the banquet concluded, over a dozen disciples summoned thirty more men to see Han Bingxue and Cha Eun Xiao off respectfully. The two of them bid their farewells, and as they disappeared on the horizon, the disciples let out sighs of relief.
"That's Han Bingxue for you; he's indeed a formidable figure, just as the tales suggest."
"He had me trembling earlier... he exerted pressure without saying a word."
"It was all because of Brother Ge's ill-fated question. We should have known better."
"What did Brother Ge ask?"
"... Brother Ge asked that stupid question."
"Right, Brother Ge... he shouldn't have asked."
"It was rather audacious."
"If Han Bingxue was angry, we would have been in serious trouble."
"We were fortunate this time."
"It's a blessing that Han Bingxue and Prime Master are friends; it saved us."
"Our Prime Master always has influential allies."
...
However, as soon as they were out of sight of the disciples, Cha Eun Xiao's anger reached a boiling point, and he couldn't contain it any longer. He shouted at Han Bingxue, stopping him, and initiated a fierce attack using his most potent technique. The ensuing turmoil created a maelstrom of dust that enveloped the entire area, as if he were confronting his lifelong nemesis.
Cha Eun Xiao's rage was unleashed, and he refused to hold back any longer. He yelled at Han Bingxue furiously, accusing him of the worst betrayal. Han Bingxue was no longer the charming, casual, and indifferent figure; he now fled with his tail between his legs, as if he were being pursued by a relentless adversary. Running away from the furious Cha Eun Xiao, he maintained a frantic smile while explaining himself, "Come on, it's just a temporary expedient. You understand, right?"
But Cha Eun Xiao had no intentions of listening to Han Bingxue's excuses. His anger was boundless. He couldn't believe that Han Bingxue had referred to him as a "useless son" and felt an overwhelming urge to pummel Han Bingxue until he was nothing more than his father's "useless son." However, despite Cha Eun Xiao's desire to strike, his current weakened state left him unable to harm Han Bingxue, who easily eluded his attempts.