With Feng Wei in custody, the sect's tension eased slightly, but Zhao knew the calm was temporary. Liang Shen's forces were still gathering, and the threat to the Celestial Flame loomed larger than ever. Zhao's successful stand against Feng Wei had solidified his allies' faith, and he found that more disciples now approached him, eager to join his cause.
However, Zhao also sensed that Ren's sudden loyalty had raised questions among his allies. Some were skeptical of Ren's shift in allegiance and questioned whether he could truly be trusted. Zhao himself was torn—Ren's knowledge of Liang Shen's plans made him invaluable, but there was always the possibility he might revert to his old loyalties.
Zhao met with his core group—Mei Lin, Lin Yu, Jing Hao, and Ren—in a secluded grove outside the main hall. "We need to act quickly," he said, studying each of them. "Liang Shen won't wait long to move against us, especially now that Feng Wei has failed."
Lin Yu crossed his arms, casting a wary glance at Ren. "And you're sure Ren can be trusted? His knowledge could turn the tide, but if he's playing both sides…"
Ren remained unfazed, meeting Lin Yu's stare with steady resolve. "I chose to help you because I believe in protecting the Celestial Flame," he said. "Liang Shen seeks only power; he would use the flame to dominate, not protect. You have my loyalty."
Jing Hao placed a hand on Lin Yu's shoulder, calming him. "We don't have the luxury of doubting every ally. If we're going to win this fight, we need to stand together."
Zhao nodded, grateful for Jing Hao's wisdom. "Then we prepare for what's to come. Liang Shen's forces will strike soon, and when they do, we'll be ready."
Later that evening, Yun Xia called Zhao to her quarters. The light from a single candle cast her face in shadow as she studied him, her expression unreadable.
"You've proven yourself capable, Zhao," she began, her voice low and thoughtful. "But remember, power without wisdom is a double-edged sword. The flame within you grows, but so does the burden of wielding it responsibly."
Zhao nodded, absorbing her words. "I understand, Master. I'll protect the flame and the sect, no matter what."
Yun Xia reached into a drawer, producing an ancient, weathered scroll. "This is a technique known as the Eternal Flame Defense. It was developed by our ancestors specifically to protect the sect from threats like Liang Shen. I believe you're ready to learn it."
Zhao took the scroll with reverence, feeling its weight in his hands. The technique was rumored to be one of the most powerful defenses known to cultivators, able to shield entire armies. But it was also known for draining the life force of the user, a cost Zhao was prepared to accept.
"Thank you, Master," he said solemnly. "I won't let you down."
In the days that followed, Zhao devoted himself to mastering the Eternal Flame Defense, pushing himself to his limits. Mei Lin often joined him in his training, her presence a reminder of what he was fighting for. They sparred late into the night, exchanging techniques and testing each other's limits. As they trained, Zhao found himself drawn to her strength and resolve, a bond forming between them that went beyond mere friendship.
One evening, Mei Lin paused, breathing heavily as they took a break from sparring. "Zhao… do you ever wonder what life would be like if we weren't fighting for the flame?"
Her question caught him off guard, and for a moment, he imagined a life free from the burdens of his legacy—a life where he and Mei Lin could be together without fear. "Sometimes," he admitted, meeting her gaze. "But protecting the flame is my duty. It's all I've ever known."
Mei Lin nodded, understanding but wistful. "Duty and desire rarely align. But no matter what happens, know that I'll be by your side."
Their moment was interrupted as Lin Yu and Jing Hao rushed into the clearing, their expressions tense. "Zhao, we've received word from our scouts—Liang Shen's forces are moving. They're preparing an ambush on the southern pass."
Zhao's heart raced. "Then we move now. Mei Lin, gather the disciples. Lin Yu, lead the way to the pass. This is our chance to stop them before they reach the sect."
As night fell, Zhao and his allies assembled near the southern pass, ready to intercept Liang Shen's forces. The air was thick with tension, and Zhao felt the flame within him burn brighter, sensing the danger. He glanced at Ren, who stood at his side, his face set in determination.
"Are you ready?" Zhao asked.
Ren nodded. "More than ever."
They moved swiftly through the trees, positioning themselves along the narrow path that Liang Shen's forces would need to cross. Zhao signaled his allies to lie in wait, their weapons at the ready. As the first of Liang Shen's men appeared, Zhao gave the signal, and his disciples surged forward, catching the enemy off guard.
The battle was fierce and chaotic. Zhao unleashed the Eternal Flame Defense, its barrier of searing heat protecting his allies and forcing their opponents back. He fought with unrelenting focus, every strike fueled by his determination to defend the sect. Mei Lin fought beside him, her movements fluid and fierce, each strike precise and deadly.
As the battle raged on, Zhao noticed a figure in the shadows—a man watching the fight from a distance, his presence radiating malice. It was Liang Shen himself, observing his forces with cold calculation. Zhao felt a surge of anger and determination, realizing that the true battle was only beginning.
With the southern pass defended, Liang Shen's forces retreated, leaving Zhao and his allies victorious. But Zhao knew this was only a temporary reprieve. Liang Shen had revealed himself, and the final confrontation was drawing near.