Hundreds of ruined structures awaited restoration.
The once lively and bustling territory now felt eerily quiet.
Lucian assigned Jia Yingchun and Qin Keqing the task of clearing the soldiers' remains to prepare for their revival in the [Hall of Heroes].
The sounds of hammers and tools echoed across the land as repairs began.
Fortunately, Lucian had an abundance of Void Crystals and Void Origin Stones, so repair costs were not a concern.
He stood by the ruins, gazing at a figure slowly approaching in the distance.
Dressed in a regal purple and blue gown stained with faint traces of blood, her long hair had turned white, and her delicate face now bore a frail, aged appearance.
The once slender figure seemed as fragile as an elder barely able to stand against a strong wind.
Despite her pitiful state, she carried a long sword in one hand and the boss's loot chest in the other.
As she approached, Lin Daiyu avoided meeting Lucian's eyes.
"Daiyu..."
Lucian called out softly, his voice tinged with emotion, but he couldn't find the right words to say.
Lin Daiyu turned her head away, hiding her withered face. Without a word, she handed him the loot chest.
Lucian hesitated briefly before taking the chest and saying, "It's over now. Both the trial and the battle. You've done incredibly well."
She turned back to face him, her gaze cold yet unwavering.
Lucian reached out a trembling hand toward her face.
His fingers brushed against her skin—dry and lifeless, yet filled with a warmth that pierced his heart.
It hurt.
It hurt so much.
And yet,
Lin Daiyu smiled.
Her voice was gentle, like a breeze over calm waters.
"But does it hurt more than me?"
"Of course it does!" Lucian replied without hesitation.
Lin Daiyu chuckled, taking Lucian's hand and walking forward. "Don't worry. You know my bloodline's abilities. Any unnatural depletion of life force can be restored, and quickly, too."
"Scarlet Pearl Grass?"
Lucian's eyes widened as realization dawned.
Her bloodline ability, capable of rebirth from a single drop of blood, ensured that any damage she sustained would only make her stronger.
As they arrived at the [Cloud Orchid Inn],
Lin Daiyu suddenly turned to Lucian and said, "I'm hungry. I want to eat something made by you."
Lucian smiled and got to work.
In no time, he served her a plate of roasted potatoes and ribs, a bowl of rice, and a bowl of seaweed soup.
"Enjoy!"
Lucian gestured proudly.
Lin Daiyu didn't waste a second, eating quickly and finishing the soup to the last drop.
A miraculous transformation began to take place.
Her vitality and lifespan visibly restored, her aged and frail appearance gradually returned to its former radiance.
The only thing that hadn't reverted was her snow-white hair.
"Why didn't your hair turn back?"
Lucian looked at her in confusion.
Lin Daiyu ran a hand through her hair and said, "It seems that when I used my [Heaven-Swallowing Qi] too intensely, it overburdened my body and affected my hair."
She activated her innate energy, causing her silver hair to turn black again.
Satisfied, Lucian laughed.
Lin Daiyu smirked, activating her energy once more—this time, her hair returned to its snow-white hue.
"What do you think? White hair or black hair? Which suits me better?"
Lucian thought for a moment before answering with a smile, "As long as it doesn't harm you, you're beautiful no matter what."
"You smooth talker!" Lin Daiyu teased, a faint blush gracing her cheeks.
Later that night, Lin Daiyu retired to rest, her figure gracefully vanishing into the distance.
Lucian returned to the [Star Palace], ensuring Jia Yingchun and Qin Keqing were settled first. Jia Yingchun was visibly shaken and refused to sleep alone, so the two women shared a room.
With the palace now housing fewer people, there were plenty of vacant rooms for everyone.
After washing up, Lucian lay down, finally allowing himself to relax.
In a dreamlike haze, a soft voice called out to him.
"Lucian..."
"Lucian..."
The gentle tone tugged at his consciousness.
Lucian opened his eyes, the dim glow of an oil lamp illuminating the room.
At the doorway stood a shadowy figure.
As she stepped closer, the light revealed a breathtaking beauty dressed in an intricate red bridal gown adorned with plum blossoms.
Her long, dark lashes framed enchanting eyes that seemed to speak a thousand words.
The delicate curve of her lips glimmered under the dim light, radiating a charm that was both innocent and alluring.
The bride walked toward him.
One step.
Another step.
Her movements were graceful, and with each step, she shed her shoes and socks, revealing soft, lily-like feet.
As she reached the bedside, she leaned down—and fell into his embrace.
The dim light painted the room in warm hues.
The world, in that moment, was truly beautiful.
Morning came.
Lucian woke, his eyes dazed and confused.
Nestled in his arms was Lin Daiyu, her serene face radiating a peaceful beauty.
The morning light accentuated her delicate features, a mixture of purity and womanly allure.
Looking at her, Lucian couldn't help but smile.
Perhaps the world really was as beautiful as it seemed.