Murong Yixuan smiled gently, his gaze softening as he addressed the children. "I have indeed had the pleasure of meeting your parents," he confirmed, his voice filled with warmth. "They spoke of you, and I have come to know of your circumstances through them." His voice trailed off momentarily as his attention shifted to the Ghost Faced Masked Man, a subtle inquiry lingering in his eyes. "Do you happen to know him?" He asked, his gaze lingering on the enigmatic figure. "No, but he saved us~" Yue'er replied honestly. Upon hearing Yue'er's words, Murong Yixuan bowed his head respectfully towards the Ghost Faced Masked Man. "I am Murong Yixuan," he introduced himself, his tone filled with gratitude. "Thank you for saving my friend's children. How may I address you?" "The reasons for my actions are of no concern to you," the Ghost Faced Masked Man responded, his voice devoid of warmth, a chilling indifference permeating his words. Undeterred, Murong Yixuan pressed on, his resolve unwavering. "My intention is to reunite them with their parents. Therefore, please put the child down." "This young girl is my chosen disciple," the Ghost Faced Masked Man declared, his voice firm and unyielding, his grip on Yue'er tightening. He displayed no inclination to relinquish her to anyone. In his perception, the moment he intervened to save her, her life became his to guide. He saw no reason to surrender his chosen apprentice. Murong Yixuan's eyes flickered with a hint of surprise, yet he maintained his composure, offering a placating smile. "It is commendable that you see her as a worthy apprentice," he conceded. "However, they have endured a long and arduous journey, and their parents are consumed with worry. If you harbor reservations about my trustworthiness, I propose that you accompany us as we return them to their parents. After their reunion, you may formally request Feng Jiu's consent to take her as your disciple." "Hah! Do you presume to dictate my actions?" The Ghost Faced Masked Man retorted, his voice laced with disdain, a clear indication of his displeasure. "I wish to return to my parents," Yue'er interjected, her voice trembling slightly, her small frame wriggling in his grasp. "Please let me go. I do not wish to be your disciple." "Sister!" Muchen exclaimed, seizing her hand, his eyes glaring at the masked man with fierce protectiveness. "My Sister will never leave our side! You are not permitted to take her away!" Observing Yue'er's distress, her face etched with panic, as if she feared being abducted, Murong Yixuan reassured her, "Do not worry. I will ensure you return to your parents." Murong Yixuan then shifted the conversation, suggesting, "Let us relocate to a more tranquil setting. This place is too chaotic, and you appear to be injured. Your wounds require attention." He directed his gaze towards Muchen, his concern evident. "Silver Wolf!" Hao'er called out, attracting the attention of the imposing creature, who had been addressing several elders of the sect. Silver Wolf swiftly bounded towards them, his eyes scrutinizing Murong Yixuan. "How are the others?" Hao'er inquired, referring to the elders and the sect master. "Hmph! The Sect Master feigned unconsciousness, observing from a concealed position. He fled the moment the barrier was breached. As for the elders, I imparted a lesson to them. They sustained severe injuries, though none are fatal," Silver Wolf reported, then inquired, "Does Master wish for me to eliminate them?" Hao'er surveyed the scene, noting the absence of any approaching individuals or wolves. The immediate vicinity was littered with dismembered bodies, their blood staining the ground, a grim testament to the ferocity of the conflict. The casualties included both members of the Black Mountain Gate and cultivators from the sect. Hao'er, contemplating the horrific scene, pursed his lips and, after a moment of somber silence, declared, "Nevermind, let's just leave it be."