Xiao Lian snorted coldly, without even glancing back. She flew out of the martial arena like a soldier who had just completed an unimportant mission. There was no pride, no regret. She wasn’t even interested in seeing the result. Her steps were calm yet carried waves of pressure that hadn’t faded, sweeping over the disciples standing at the edge of the arena, leaving them speechless and frozen. The Master of the Thousand Star Heart Villa descended directly into the arena. In a single step, he was by his daughter’s side, embracing Bai Ruochen’s body whose knees could no longer support her. Her dress was stained with the dust of the arena, and her breathing was still labored. His gentle aura enveloped her body, easing the pain, but unable to conceal the sorrow flowing from Bai Ruochen’s eyes. “Father, forgive me. I was too weak. And too arrogant in the past.” Her voice was soft, yet clear. It slipped between her heavy breaths, laced with regret. Her eyes were slightly wet, and her