Several days after the Demon Sealing Sect made their return, Wang Ming and the members who had come from the Jaded Garden opted to descend from the mountain to reunite with their families. “We'll be back in a few months,” Wang Ming assured. “Enjoy your time,” Meifeng replied warmly. “I'm going to visit my grandfather for a few weeks as well,” Wang Xiuying announced and departed from Dragon Spiral Mountain two days later, leaving only Chu Liuxiang, Meixiu, and Meifeng at their residence. Though they kept in frequent contact with their relatives through calls and video conferences, this marked their first homecoming in many years. With little else to occupy them, Meixiu and Chu Liuxiang devoted much of their days to Yu Rou and the Eternal Lotuses. Beyond the Eternal Lotuses, they also made visits to the Lord, who was primarily focused on reclaiming his lost cultivation. Meanwhile, at the Jaded Garden, the Six Spiritual Houses hosted a magnificent weeklong banquet in honor of their prodigies’ homecoming. “Do any of you regret leaving your homes to follow Yuan?" an elder inquired during the celebration. “Not at all,” Wang Ming responded without hesitation. “Meeting someone like Yuan is the greatest stroke of luck I've ever known—and dedicating myself to his path is an even greater privilege.” “Exactly. Without him, none of us could have achieved this level—even over a lifetime,” Shi Lang added, garnering unanimous nods. “How has Yuan been lately? I haven't heard a word for years. Some say he might be dead. Is he truly alright?” someone asked. Wu Zao chuckled, “You don't understand Yuan like we do. That man is extraordinary. Nothing in this world can threaten him, so there's no need to worry. He's definitely alive and well.” “By the way, is Yuan open to partnerships these days? I'd like to introduce my daughter to him." “You might as well give up. He's beyond our reach,” Xi Murong dismissed. “But didn't Jinxi manage to win his heart?” Wang Ming interjected. “What?!” Those outside the Demon Sealing Sect turned sharply toward Li Jini, stunned to hear of any connection between her and Yuan for the first time. 𝙛𝓻𝒆𝒆𝒘𝙚𝓫𝙣𝙤𝒗𝙚𝓵.𝙘𝙤𝙢 “W-When? When did this happen?” Li Jinxi's father exclaimed, standing abruptly, face pale with disbelief. still, Li Jinxi remained silent. “It was just before Yuan left, if I recall correctly,” said Shi Lang. “That long ago? And none of you told us?" “We were busy,” came the simple reply. “And what about you, Bingbing? Have you made any progress with him?” the Wang family probed. “We're just friends!” Wang Bingbing claimed nervously, a blush ising to her cheeks. “You really need to put in more effort,” her mother sighed. “Shut up!” Bingbing snapped. After a moment, Li Jinx finally spoke, “There's something I need to share.” The room quieted as all eyes turned toward her. “As you know, Yuan departed Earth for the Nine Heavens. I wasn't able to follow him then, but when the opportunity arises again, I intend to leave Earth too,” she said. “It's still far off, but I want to tell you now so you won't be confused if I suddenly disappear.” Upon hearing this, Wang Ming added, “I, too, plan to leave Earth someday. After experiencing the Nine Heavens, this small world no longer satisfies me." Others soon voiced similar intentions—they all hoped to one day depart Earth. Despite the unexpected revelation, nobody seemed particularly shocked. After a brief pause, one of them spoke, “We expected this back when Yuan left Earth. Frankly, we were surprised none of you had followed him already.” “Well... it's not like we didn't want to. We simply couldn't,” Hong Xiuguan replied. “Will you be unable to return once you leave?” someone asked. “We should be able to, as long as no one tampers with the portal like last time.” “In that case, I see no problem with your leaving. This world has indeed become too confining for you.” “Do you know when you'll go?" No Their families continued questioning them until satisfied, ultimately offering not only their acceptance but encouragement. Time slipped by swiftly, and before they knew it, a full year had gone. The Demon Sealing Sect returned once more to Dragon Spiral Mountain and logged back into Cultivation Online for the first time in a while. Shortly after, Kelan summoned them. “The preparations are underway,” he informed them. “But nothing is finalized yet. In a few days, your prospective masters will arrive to interview you. If they find you suitable and agree to take you on, the choice will then be yours. We will not force anyone to join a sect that doesn't feel right.” “Li Jinxi, you are to meet with Senior Bai at the Myriad of Techniques tomorrow. He wishes to have a discussion with you.” Li Jinxi nodded silently. “Any questions?” “Could you provide more details so we know what to expect?” Shi Lang asked. Kelan obliged, outlining the potential sects they might join. Once content, they were excused. The next day, Li Jinx visited the Myriad of Techniques. “Senior Bai," she greeted respectfully upon entering his domain. “Li Jinx, correct? This will be our first private meeting. Please, have a seat.” Senior Bai indicated the prepared table with two cups of tea. Pouring her a cup, he continued, “You're probably wondering why I summoned you, so Ill be direct. Kelan tells me you're not only the most gifted among your group but also the most diligent. Yet, you wish to cultivate alone while your peers agree to train at various sects. May I ask the reason behind your decision?”