He stepped out of Mei's room and sealed the door with his mana to keep it secure. The Inner Sect was quieter now, leaving the courtyards bathed in soft sunlight and the scent of blooming lotuses.
Julian's senses swept the area, picking up the faint hum of spiritual energy from the sect's formations and the distant chatter of disciples. His eyes narrowed as he caught a glimpse of a figure near the lotus pond—a young man, unremarkable at first glance, but with that same concealed aura he had sensed before.
The Sect Leader, he thought, his smirk widening. Still playing her little game.
Julian strolled casually toward the pond and paused by the edge, pretending to admire the lotuses
Interesting indeed, he thought, his mana probing her senses.
Just then,
"Brother Monk!" a familiar voice called, breaking his focus. Mei hurried toward him, her eyes bright with excitement. "You're still here," she said, relief evident in her voice.
