Half a year passed swiftly, and Tian Ling emerged from his seclusion.
"I'm ready. I'll break through first, then inform the sect master about the demonic cultivators," he murmured, resolve burning in his eyes.
He quickly exited his palace, finding Lian Ziyue patiently awaiting him outside. Seeing her, Tian Ling approached and greeted her with a polite smile.
"Sister, did you need something?" he asked cordially.
Lian Ziyue returned his smile, though worry clouded her gaze.
"Brother Tian, the sect master was here looking for you not long ago. It seemed urgent," she informed him, a note of urgency in her voice.
Tian Ling's brow furrowed in thought.
"Could it be related to the Crimson Flame Sect?" he pondered, recalling recent tensions.
"Very likely. They've been moving suspiciously as of late," Lian Ziyue agreed. "Shall I let the master know that you've come out of seclusion?"
He shook his head.