Wen Ran's eyes rested on his master with an unmistakable look, one usually reserved for dead weight. Xiao Lingyun felt a sour lump rise in his throat as bitterness surged within him. He knew perfectly well that his survival up until this moment was thanks to Wen Ran's effort, and though that was a hard truth to swallow, he still couldn't shake the painful sensation of being useless. A bitter smile briefly flickered on his lips as old memories flooded his mind. He had once been young, fierce, arrogant—chasing after glory and immortality with unwavering pride. If only he could relive those days, he would surely choose differently. But life granted no second chances.
"I can move just fine," Xiao Lingyun barked impatiently, shaking off the heaviness in his heart and trying to reclaim a shred of his former pride. "Now quickly, loot their spirit pouches and toss them over—I'll remove their tracking seals." The look on his face was serious, as if he already knew something was inside there.
