Chapter 29: The Flames That Burn Fate
The temple erupted in chaos.
Qiuhan's magic roared like a living beast, the air thick with shadow and vengeance. Blackened lightning danced across the sky as he raised the full force of his corrupted power. Around him, the floor crumbled, and cursed vines of energy twisted upward like claws, reaching for Ying Yue.
But Bai Jiu was faster.
His sword blazed a path of golden fire, cutting through the darkness as he leapt to her side. "Stay behind me."
Ying Yue shook her head, eyes glowing silver. "Not this time."
She lifted both hands, and sacred runes ignited in the air around her—circles of power older than the stars. "Together."
Qiuhan let out a howl. "You think your love can save you?"
"No," Bai Jiu replied. "But it can destroy you."
He rushed forward, clashing against Qiuhan with divine speed. The collision shattered the air, throwing waves of energy across the temple. Blades met darkness, sparks raining down like stars falling from heaven.
Ying Yue stood behind them, channeling spell after spell, trying to contain the corrupted magic leaking into the world. Her body trembled—her mortal shell still fragile—but her spirit burned brighter than ever.
Qiuhan struck hard, forcing Bai Jiu to his knees. "You were never worthy of her. You hid like a coward!"
"I waited," Bai Jiu growled, blood trailing down his lip. "I never stopped loving her."
A beam of shadow flew toward Ying Yue—fast, deadly.
Without hesitation, Bai Jiu threw himself in front of it.
The impact exploded.
"No!" Ying Yue screamed, rushing toward him as he collapsed.
Smoke swirled around them. Qiuhan stood above, breathing hard. "He would die for you… but would you live for him?"
Ying Yue looked down at Bai Jiu—still alive, barely. Her fingers trembled as she pressed her palm to his chest, whispering ancient words.
Silver light pulsed through him, slowing the bleeding.
She stood, facing Qiuhan.
"You want a goddess?" she said, voice deeper, fuller. "You want to see what I truly am?"
Winds howled. Her eyes turned completely white.
Then came the wings—pure energy, fanning from her back like light itself.
"I am Fu Sheng," she said, the voice of thousands echoing through her. "And I am done running."
Qiuhan took a step back.
And for the first time… he looked afraid.