"Go!" Master Sekte roared, his face contorted, tears mingling with blood on his cheeks. "Don't let my sacrifice be in vain!" The defensive barrier pulsed, crackling, already showing signs of strain under the sheer force of Lin’s Primordial Void orb and the gathering energy of the armada above.
Li Chen felt Yueling tugging desperately on his arm, her own sobs tearing at his heart. He saw the grim resolve in Master Sekte's eyes, the unshakeable decision. He knew, with a terrible certainty, that this was their only chance. The master's gaze, clear even through the pain, held a plea that transcended words: Live. Protect her. Remember your humanity. This is the last lesson.
He met Master Sekte’s gaze one last time, a silent promise burning in his silver-gold eyes. I will not forget. He turned
