In the Su Yuan Sect, within an ancient and time-worn hall, the tablets were arranged in sequence atop the sacred steps, with the air filled by the wafting scent of incense and the glow of lit oil lamps.
In a corner of the hall, five crystal lamps were placed in the pattern of a star. Within each lamp, a cloudlike aura swirled around the flame, serene and tranquil. Suddenly, the aura within one lamp dramatically surged, disrupting the peaceful atmosphere as it churned and extinguished the flame within.
The flame quickly suffocated and went out with a gasp, as a light mist rose gently from the lamp.
Below the sacred tablets, a middle-aged man in white, sitting cross-legged on a cushion, abruptly opened his eyes and slowly turned to look at the five crystal Lifebound Lanterns in the corner. Seeing the rising wisp of smoke, his face filled with shock and suspicion, he quickly got up to check the lanterns.
After confirming, he turned and sprinted away.
