Xuan Qing's eyes never left the opposing group, her qi already surging faintly around her. "Do not waste energy in fear. Whatever happens, hold your ground."
Han Yu remained silent, his mind still racing even as he steadied his breathing. He knew full well that courage and determination would not be enough. Numbers and cultivation levels were cruel in their simplicity. And the Mist Eye Sect had both on their side.
The silence between the two groups stretched on. Seconds felt like hours as every disciple weighed their choices.
Would the Mist Eye Sect strike first, overwhelming them with sheer force? Or would they wait, forcing the Twin Leaf Peak Sect to make the first desperate move?
Han Yu's eyes flicked back to Meng Jueyan once more.
She had lowered her gaze, her lips pressed into a thin line.
