Li Hua studied Mo Xing's extended hand, weighing decisions and consequences with the calculating precision that had defined her previous life as an assassin, and now characterized her approach to cultivation challenges. A part of her—the ever-curious tactician—welcomed the opportunity to glimpse fragments of Mo Xing's past. What experiences had shaped this man? What secrets lay behind those golden eyes that shifted between playful mischief and wisdom?
Yet, accepting his offered hand meant potentially exposing her own shadows. There were memories from her modern world existence that still cut deep—failures she couldn't prevent, people she couldn't save, the hollow emptiness that had driven her to accept death without resistance. Even in this new life, there were moments of weakness and vulnerability she preferred to keep hidden, especially from someone as insightful as Mo Xing.
