The villagers murmured in confusion and curiosity as Wu Chen stepped forward, his expression calm and resolute.
He closed his eyes, drawing in a deep breath as his aura began to stir. A soft wind swept through the square, and then, like mist at dawn, a faint, silvery smoke began to rise from his body. It spiraled upward, graceful and ethereal, weaving into a shape before their eyes.
The murmurs turned into stunned silence.
Before them, the smoke coalesced—solidifying, taking on form and presence. When it cleared, standing Beside Wu Chen was another Wu Chen, a perfect replica of him: his spirit apparition.
The villagers collectively gasped. Their eyes darted between the two figures, unable to tell them apart. From the quiet strength in his posture to the calm intensity in his eyes, the apparition mirrored Wu Chen flawlessly. It even radiated the same aura—steady and powerful.
It wasn't just a copy.
The connection between them pulsed in the air—something deeper than sight or shape. The villagers could feel it in their very bones. This was Wu Chen's will, made manifest.
And he was leaving a part of himself behind—for them.
"This is my gift to you," Wu Chen said softly, his voice carrying across the hushed square. "This apparition will remain behind, watching over the village in my place. It holds the same strength I possess—and in time, it will grow stronger still. With it here, peace will never waver."
The apparition turned to the villagers, its expression warm and serene. It gave a slight bow graceful and dignified then began to dissolve into silvery mist once more.
The smoke drifted gently toward the statue at the center of the square. As it seeped into the stone, a faint light pulsed from within the statue's eyes, casting a brief glow over the village. For a heartbeat, it felt alive then it dimmed and went back to normal.
"The statue will serve as its vessel," Wu Chen explained. "As long as the air holds spiritual energy, it will endure—silent, watchful, unyielding. A guardian in stone."
There was a stunned silence. Then, as the meaning sank in, the square erupted with cheers and tears. Laughter rang out, relief spread like wildfire, and for the first time in many seasons, the villagers felt completely safe.
A symbol of hope now stood at their heart—one that could not be broken.
Then Amid the celebration, Li Wei stepped forward, his eyes burning with resolve. He dropped to one knee and bowed deeply. "Teacher," he said firmly, "please take me with you. I wish to serve and learn at your side for as long as you'll allow."
Wu Chen studied him for a long moment. Over the days, Li Wei had proven himself—loyal, dedicated, and brave. But the road ahead was harsh, and Wu Chen would not take him lightly.
"Are you certain?" Wu Chen asked. His tone was calm but weighty. "Following me means stepping into the unknown. Once we leave, we may never return. I can't promise safety, comfort, or even rest. Can you accept that?"
Li Wei didn't falter. "I can, Teacher. I already have. My place is with you."
A faint smile tugged at Wu Chen's lips. "Then rise. We travel together."
Li Wei's father approached, his weathered hand settling on his son's shoulder. His eyes, though glassy, held no regret—only pride. "Go, Li Wei. Walk your path with honor. We'll always be here… cheering you on."
Though the villagers were saddened to see Li Wei depart, they understood. Some watched with envy, others with admiration—but none doubted that he had chosen rightly.
They believe For to walk beside Wu Chen was to walk in the footsteps of greatness.
***
The morning sun rose gently over the village, casting a golden light across rooftops and fields. A soft breeze rustled the trees, as if the land itself had come to bid farewell.
Wu Chen stood at the edge of the village path, Li Wei at his side. The villagers had gathered once more—men, women, and children—all wearing expressions of gratitude and sorrow. No grand ceremony was held. None was needed. His presence alone had been the miracle they would never forget.
Old Man Zhang stepped forward one last time, holding a small wooden talisman carved with Wu Chen's name.
"It's a tradition," the elder said with a weathered smile. "For those who saved the village, so their spirits always find their way back… even if only in memory."
Wu Chen accepted it with a bow. "Then I will carry this proudly."
There were no more words to be said. The moment was sacred in its silence. Even the children, usually full of noise and energy, stood quiet, their eyes wide and glistening.
Li Mei stepped out from the crowd, holding a bundle of food wrapped in cloth. "For your journey," she murmured, cheeks flushed. "In case you get hungry out there…"
Wu Chen accepted it gently, his other hand gently rubbed her head. "Thank you, Li Mei.
He turned to Li Wei, who stood ready—his belongings packed, his resolve unwavering.
"Are you sure about this?" Wu Chen asked one last time.
Li Wei nodded firmly. "I am ready, Teacher."
Wu Chen placed a hand on his shoulder. "Then let us go."
He closed his eyes, focusing his thoughts on leaving the Trial Grounds. He wasn't sure what would happen next. Would a door appear? A glowing portal? Or would they simply vanish? The Trial had brought him here mysteriously—he had no guarantee it would return him the same way.
And what if the exit only worked for him? He had promised to take Li Wei along—abandoning him now would go against everything he stood for.
Still, Wu Chen pushed aside his uncertainty and focus. Wherever the destination might be—Trinity Palace, the kingdom he came from, or somewhere entirely new—he had made up his mind.
A brilliant glow enveloped them both, pulsing softly like the heartbeat of the world itself. And in an instant, they vanished.