That evening, Lu Fan sat on the rooftop again, the city's hum below blending with the steady pulse in his veins. His mind wasn't just on the upcoming clash with Xie Ren — it was on his father, who worked late shifts and worried silently about their future.
Lu Fan clenched his fist.
I can't let him suffer anymore. I have to be stronger—no matter what.
He practiced his Qi Circulation, feeling the energy flow smoother than ever. The shadow skill whispered quietly in his mind, encouraging him to push further, to break limits.
No teachers, no guides. Just him. His determination. His will.
His thoughts drifted to the money he sent home—each yuan a small step toward lifting his father out of hardship.
Suddenly, his phone buzzed again—a message from Jia Wei, checking on him and offering to help with tutoring.
Lu Fan smiled softly. His friends grounded him, reminded him there was still normal life to hold onto.
But when he closed his eyes, he saw Xie Ren's sneer and heard the unspoken challenge: "Don't get cocky."
Lu Fan took a deep breath, feeling the power growing steadily inside. The battle was coming—but this was more than just a fight.
It was a promise—to his father, to his friends, and to himself.