For five hundred years, I have been bound in this forbidden land, and yet here you are, dear Independent Cultivator, shedding tears for what reason?

Summary

Nian Zhao Xi is deeply pained by Gu Xiu's recent words, which starkly contrast with his once vibrant and friendly nature. She reflects on their past connection and feels immense guilt over his current state. Ye Hong Ling, confused by Nian Zhao Xi's emotions, questions the relationship between them. Nian Zhao Xi insists that Gu Xiu is her brother, but Ye Hong Ling doubts this due to Gu Xiu's lack of a proper weapon and resources, suggesting he can't possibly be related to someone as powerful as Nian Zhao Xi. Despite Nian Zhao Xi's attempts to explain Gu Xiu's situation, Ye Hong Ling remains skeptical, pointing out that someone of Nian Zhao Xi's stature would not have a brother practicing an ordinary cultivation technique. The conversation leaves Nian Zhao Xi silent, caught between her loyalty to Gu Xiu and the doubts raised by Ye Hong Ling.

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