"Xuan, uh, both of them... Adam, me, and perhaps Neos too, assuming he survives... The scheming and plotting among us five sages could really make one's head explode."
Hong Lu muttered to himself, incessantly fiddling with his hair while casting sidelong glances at Xuan. This guy seemed utterly relaxed, a stark contrast to Hong Lu's deep contemplation. Without a hint of fatigue or bloodshot eyes, Xuan appeared leisurely, munching on an apple and tinkering with small gadgets. Was this the advantage of being devoid of emotions and sensations? Or was it wisdom compensated by the heavens after losing so much?
(Was this the favor of the heavens, or a tragedy crafted by fate?)
Hong Lu chuckled self-mockingly, then refocused on the situation at hand, which had occupied his thoughts for days and nights without yielding any clarity. Instead, the entire affair seemed to grow more complex in his mind.
