The Goddess Intervenes
Hearing the Heaven of God's decree, the Heavenly Goddess appeared and said, "This girl has not committed any wrongdoing to warrant a death sentence. Perhaps her powers are of a different nature. Instead of punishing her immediately, we should first understand the source of her abilities and guide her accordingly."
With her intervention, the death sentence was canceled, but Xiang was imprisoned. The prison was dark and surrounded by a powerful barrier that no one could cross. It was a place of complete isolation.
Xiang sat in the cold cell, her thoughts filled with both hope and fear. My master will surely come to save me, she thought. But doubt lingered in her heart. If it is proven that I have demonic powers, will he still come for me?
Wen Shia's Plea
Wen Shia approached the Heavenly God, his voice steady but filled with determination. "Meditation and cultivation do not lie, Father. Xiang has trained under me for years. If she had demonic powers, we would have noticed them long ago. It is possible that this power is not hers at all. Perhaps she has been possessed by a demon or someone has implanted their demonic energy within her."
The crowd murmured at his words, and Wen Shia continued. "Punishing her without understanding the truth is unjust. Allow me time to uncover the nature of her power. If I can help her overcome it, she should be allowed to stay. If not, I will accept whatever punishment you decide for her."
After much deliberation, the Heavenly God relented. "You have three days to investigate and find the truth," he said. "During that time, she may stay under strict conditions. She will remain in the house and is forbidden from wandering freely. If she disobeys or troubles anyone, she will face severe punishment."
Wen Shia agreed, a glimmer of hope lighting his face. "Thank you, Father. I will ensure she understands and abides by your rules."
Doming's Secret Visit
While Xiang awaited her release, Doming, the Demon God, secretly visited her in the dark prison. His voice was low and filled with concern. "Do not worry, Xiang. You are not alone in this. Even if your master cannot protect you, I will. If you wish, I can take you away from here right now."
Xiang shook her head firmly. "No, Doming. I will not leave. I want to stay here, no matter what punishment awaits me. I have done nothing wrong, and I will prove it."
Doming sighed but respected her resolve. "If you ever need me, call for me," he said, leaving her with a small, glowing ember. "This will summon demons to protect you if the need arises."
Xiang accepted the item hesitantly, unsure of its true power but grateful for Doming's concern.
A New Threat
With Heaven and the demon realm now on tenuous terms, tensions between the two had eased. The demons, having committed no recent transgressions, were no longer under constant suspicion. However, a girl named So Young, who harbored feelings for Wen Shia, appeared unannounced in Xiang's room one night.
Xiang stirred awake, startled to see So Young standing over her. Slowly, she opened her eyes and asked, "Who are you? Why are you here?"
Recognizing So Young, Xiang's calm demeanor faded. "You shouldn't be here. I despise you. Ever since you came into our lives, you've brought nothing but trouble. Leave now and never return!"
So Young sneered. "I'll set you free," she said, "but only on one condition—you must leave Heaven and never come back. And you must stay far away from Wen Shia."
Xiang's eyes narrowed as anger and determination filled her heart. "You can try to manipulate me all you want, but I will not leave. I will prove my innocence and protect those I care for. Leave before I lose my patience."