ã€ŠAnh Sangã€‹


 Book 1: Tales of the Rat Chapter 1 and 2

    In the quiet depths of an ancient temple, Bian Ong Ma lies crumpled on the cold stone floor, her body bruised and broken. What once must have been a magnificent structure now lies in ruins. Shattered statues of dragons and lions stand as grim reminders of what has been lost¡ªand what Bian is about to lose. She knows she is going to die here. The air is thick with the scent of damp earth, and the echo of dripping water reverberates through the cavernous space.

    Bian struggles to steady her breath, but the weight of complete darkness presses down on her, a relentless reminder of the brutal attack that left her and her companions trapped in this forsaken place. Lying in the shadows, she clings to the warmth of another survivor, Mai Ly. Together, they hold on to each other, their whispers barely audible in the stillness, comforting each other in what may be their final moments.

    "Anyone alive out there?" Bian calls out in desperation. In the emptiness, no one answers.

    Flashes of the battle race through her mind¡ªa whirlwind of chaos combined with the screams of her friends as they¡¯re cut down in the darkness. Bian''s heart aches for them. In her delirium, she calls out for help once more, her voice barely a whisper in the shadows, echoing against the stone walls. ¡°Please... we need help.¡± Silence answers.

    Holding onto Mai Ly, she whispers, ¡°It¡¯s going to be okay, Mai. Someone will find us¡­¡± Even if she doesn¡¯t believe her own words, she has to say it. But it¡¯s too late¡ªMai is gone.

    Amidst her weary state, Bian notices a flicker of movement. At first, she thinks it¡¯s a figment of her imagination, a hallucination brought on by the lack of oxygen clouding her mind. But the figure solidifies¡ªa woman draped in flowing robes of shimmering gold, her features ethereal.

    Even in her half-conscious state, Bian recognizes the figure. How could she not? It is Ha Linh, the legendary hero of Anh Sang, the capital city, and the first Ma Thuat Tech. Ha Linh''s spirit floats toward her.

    "Stop crying! I¡¯ve been trapped here for a hundred years and haven¡¯t shed a tear." Ha Linh¡¯s voice rings out like a bell, commanding yet far from what Bian expects from the spirit of an ancient hero. "Tears aren¡¯t going to help you now, child."

    Bian''s breath quickens as realization dawns. "You¡­ you really are Ha Linh!¡± A nervous, disbelieving laugh escapes her lips. ¡°I must be dead if I¡¯m seeing ghosts."

    Ha Linh scoffs at Bian¡¯s despair. "My first visitor in years, and it¡¯s a whiny little girl. Do us both a favor¡ªhurry up and die like your pathetic friends, so I don¡¯t have to hear your moaning any longer. Or perhaps I could absorb some of their energy and free myself.¡±

    Bian¡¯s pain ignites a moment of rage. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare! Stay away from them!¡±

    Ha Linh raises her hands in mock excitement. ¡°Finally! Some emotion! Some rage! Now that we can work with. And here I was beginning to think you were useless.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re nothing like how the tales described you. I thought you were supposed to be kind and gentle. A hero even among heroes.¡± Bian¡¯s voice trembled. Was this truly the Ha Linh she¡¯d admired, the legendary figure from her childhood? There wasn¡¯t even a flicker of warmth in her gaze¡ªonly cold and rage.

    Ha Linh smirked. ¡°Kind and gentle? Is that what the tales said? They forgot to mention how kindness gets you killed. I¡¯m no children¡¯s story¡ªI¡¯m the real Ha Linh. Don¡¯t like it? Then die and leave me to enjoy the quiet. I mean, I could help you, but you¡¯re probably not strong enough.¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about? Aren¡¯t you a spirit of the afterlife here to whisk us away?¡± Bian asks, fighting to keep her voice steady despite the pain.

    ¡°Is that really what you want, child? Do you want me to lead you to heavenly bliss?¡±

    Bian hesitates, wincing through the agony. ¡°No¡­¡±

    ¡°Hmm, what was that? I can barely hear you over the sound of your friends¡¯ spirits leaving us,¡± Ha Linh taunts, her words piercing like daggers.

    The rage within Bian surges, boiling over. ¡°No! I want to live! I want to get out of here! And I want to destroy every last one of the Quis! If you¡¯re not going to help, then please leave me alone!¡±

    A ghostly smile flickers across Ha Linh¡¯s lips. ¡°That, I can help you with. Alone, you are powerless, weak, sad, really. But your pain, your thirst for revenge, that drew me closer. Together, we can awaken the fury within you. Take my hand; become my vessel. With me, you will have the power of a goddess. We will find your killers, and you will help me get my justice by striking down the Coalition that betrayed me.¡±

    Bian feels a flicker of hope at the thought of fusing with the spirit of Ha Linh. To become a vessel for a legendary hero¡ªher power, her wrath, her peerless skill. "Is that something I can handle?"

    The question weighs on her mind.

    Images of her fallen sisters flash through her thoughts: Cam Tu and Luan cut down in front of her, Mai Ly¡¯s desperation as she pushed Bian to safety. If only Bian had been faster, stronger... better. She could have saved them. With Ha Linh¡¯s power, she could be all of that. More. A beacon of strength, not just for herself, but for the future of those still fighting.

    Bian lets the thought linger, until at last she nods, her voice determined. ¡°I accept.¡±

    Ha Linh''s spirit shimmers with approval, and as their essences merge, Bian feels a surge of energy flow through her¡­ followed by agonizing pain. Her screams echo throughout the chamber. Her body feels as if it¡¯s being ripped apart, lit on fire, and squeezed by razor thin wires, struggling to maintain the spirit within. The darkness of the temple begins to shift, the shadows retreating as Ha Linh infuses her with the knowledge of the ancient Ma Thuat Tech deep within Bian¡¯s mind. After a moment, Bian¡¯s body lies still... barely alive, but alive, fighting to stay conscious. ¡°Luan? Cam? Mai Ly? Is that you?¡±

    CHAPTER 2

    The Orchid Academy was originally created by the Coalition to honor Ha Linh¡¯s great sacrifice. Over time, it became a refuge for young girls who lost their families, training and empowering them to become a new generation of powerful female Ma Thuat Techs. Funded and supplied directly by the Coalition, the Orchids are sent on missions to protect the surrounding villages, dealing with bandits, civil disputes, and even the rare encounter with other Ma Thuat Techs.

    During a beautiful, sunbaked afternoon, the academy courtyard is vibrant with the sounds of laughter and clashing metal. A younger Bian, filled with hope and ambition, trains alongside her peers¡ªLuan, Cam Tu, and Mai Ly¡ªunaware of the misfortunes ahead.

    At first glance, you cannot tell that Luan and Cam Tu are not blood-related. Their movements and fighting styles mirror each other so perfectly that anyone would think they were twins fighting side-by-side. And Mai Ly always exuded a kind smile, one so infectious that you can¡¯t help but smile back, even after she had just finished beating you in a match.

    Tension in the air is palpable as Bian and Mai Ly stand in the center of the training arena. Their eyes locked with intense concentration. Suddenly, a burst of movement from Mai Ly as she is the first to make a move, her Kiemloung cuts through the air with a sharp whistle. The deep green glow of her blade flares brighter, and a gust of wind surges forward with each swing, scattering leaves and dust in its wake. Her movements are swift and relentless, her blade arcs with emerald energy as she presses Bian with a flurry of strikes. She lunges forward as the forces of air spiral at the tip of her blade, aimed at Bian.

    On the other side, Bian is calm and ready as she counters with the cool precision. She sidesteps, her own Kiemloung raised to intercept the blow, the sapphire blue crystal in her hilt shimmering like ice under the moonlight. With a measured swing, her blade deflects Mai Ly¡¯s attack, sending a torrent of water outward. The clash of their swords resonates through the arena, the icy chill of Bian¡¯s magic meeting the wild gusts of Mai Ly¡¯s. A swing of Bian¡¯s sword sends a blast of water toward Mai Ly, forcing her to retreat. For a moment, they pause, their eyes locked in unyielding focus.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    Overseeing their training is an elderly woman, Tien Lam, her beautiful long white hair flowing in the breeze. Through her, the orphans of Orchid Academy are taught the art of writing, the beauty of poetry, and the power of martial arts¡ªskills designed to empower the women who leave here and prepare them for the trials that lie ahead.

    ¡°Mai Ly, you¡¯re leaving your left far too exposed. Don¡¯t give your opponents any opportunities to strike!¡± Tien barks.

    The two continue their match. Mai Ly does her best to follow Tien¡¯s instructions, but Bian pierces through whenever she lets her guard down. After a series of attacks from Bian, Mai Ly falls to the ground, but Bian hesitates for a moment.

    Tien calls out, ¡°Enough! Bian, come to me.¡±

    Luan and Cam mockingly tease her, ¡°Oooh, looks like teacher¡¯s favorite is in trouble.¡± Bian responds by crossing her index and middle fingers¡ªa known expletive¡ªat them. All in jest, of course.

    Gathering her composure, she speaks to Tien. ¡°Yes, teacher. You called?¡±

    Tien, serious, asks, ¡°Why did you stop attacking?¡±

    Bian doesn¡¯t know what her teacher wants to hear. ¡°It was just a sparring match. Nothing serious,¡± she says, trying to play it off.

    Tien, even more annoyed now, ¡°If this had been a real match, would you have hesitated the same way? Would your opponent have given Mai Ly a chance?¡±

    Bian knows the answer but she remains silent.

    Tien, now addressing the group, continues, ¡°I am training you girls to be some of the greatest warriors who wield magic and weapons at their whim¡ªMa Thuat Techs that can even rival Ha Linh. You must treat every training session like a real battle. I don¡¯t want any of you getting hurt, but more than that, I don¡¯t want you foolishly believing that your opponents will hesitate when given the chance to deal the killing blow.¡±

    Before she can say more, a courier interrupts their training. He approaches Tien, clutching a letter. Bian watches as her teacher¡¯s expression shifts, growing more rigid with each line, until it twists into a rage she has never seen on her usually calm face.

    Tien calls out to the girls, ¡°That¡¯s enough for today. Everyone, get ready for supper.¡±

    Bian and Mai Ly exchange glances as Luan approaches them. ¡°Have we ever ended training early before?¡± They shake their heads.

    Later that night, the dining room buzzes with hushed whispers, rumors swirling like the evening mist, all centered around a mysterious expedition. The excitement is palpable, with students leaning in close, eager to catch any hint of truth behind the conversations. Tien soon steps forward to confirm these murmurs: the eldest students from the Orchid Academy¡ªBian¡¯s group¡ªhave been requested to explore the sacred temple of Ha Linh, the very site of the noble hero¡¯s ultimate sacrifice 100 years ago.

    A group of younger Orchids gathers around Bian.

    ¡°The story goes that Ha Linh and the Coalition¨Cheroes who rallied behind her¨Cgathered for a final push against the Quis. Unfortunately, they didn¡¯t anticipate the ferocity of the monsters¡¯ retaliation. Without hesitation, Ha Linh sacrificed herself to deal a devastating blow, and in her death, the Coalition was able to push back the Quis and¡ª¡±

    ¡°Trap them once again in the shadow world,¡± Cam Tu jumps in, finishing the familiar tale with a teasing grin. ¡°We all know the story,¡± she adds, poking fun at Bian.

    Luan chimes in with a smirk, ¡°Come on, it¡¯s not Bian¡¯s fault she¡¯s a Ha Linh fangirl.¡±

    Bian shoots back, ¡°Whatever. You are too!¡±

    Tian clears her throat, signaling for the girls to stop their chatter. She continues, ¡°Entry into the temple has long been forbidden, its ancient halls sealed away due to sightings of Quis and corruption seeping from its walls. However, recent reports from academy scouts reveal a shift¡ªthe corruption has weakened just enough to allow experienced warriors to step inside. The goal of this expedition will be to retrieve a relic said to have belonged to Ha Linh herself¡ªlegendary bracers, rumored to be the key to her immense power.¡±

    The girls continue their excited whispers.

    Tien Lam drops an unexpected decision. ¡°However,¡± she says firmly, ¡°I have denied the request.¡±

    Confused murmurs ripple among the students as Bian and her friends exchange bewildered glances. Their protests bubble to the surface, but Tien cuts them off, her voice calm yet unyielding. ¡°The temple is still too dangerous for exploration. And we will not risk our lives for the whims of the Coalition. I will not speak on this any further.¡± She leaves.

    ¡°What¡¯s the Coalition?¡± a newbie Orchid asks the group.

    Mai Ly brings her in, ¡°Come, let big sis Mai Ly educate you. The Coalition is a group of noble families who originally founded Anh Sang alongside Ha Linh. Some of them have split off, but a majority of the original members still hold power. Rumors are that they tapped into some sort of ancient magic that helps slow the aging process.¡±

    The girls continue their objections well into the night, but Tien refuses to budge.

    Later that evening, a different conversation takes place, away from the disapproving ears of their teacher. Dissatisfied with the decision, Bian and her closest friends gather in her room, the flickering light of a single lantern casting long shadows as they debate the situation. Luan and Cam Tu are nearly giddy at the thought of defying orders, their eyes bright with the idea of stepping into the legendary temple of a great hero. Meanwhile, Mai Ly, ever the cautious elder sister figure, folds her arms in disapproval.

    ¡°Teacher is right,¡± she declares, her voice steady. ¡°The temple is still far too dangerous.¡± She pauses, her eyes scanning her friends, driving home the point. ¡°And what about the Quis? We¡¯ve never faced creatures like that before.¡±

    The origins of the Quis remain a mystery, lost in the mists of time. Initially nothing more than cautionary tales whispered by parents to keep children in line, they have since become all too real. The Quis are monsters born from shadows, with three sickly yellow eyes glowing as they watch their prey from the dark corners of forests. They move like nightmares, their eerie, chittering sounds haunting the night. Eyewitnesses describe them as large, wolf-like creatures with shadow-coated fur, but their long, crocodile-like snouts and sharp, jagged teeth set them apart from any ordinary beast. Their claws, long and sharp like a tiger¡¯s, are made to tear flesh from bone. The Quis usually strike alone, but on rare, terrifying occasions, they hunt in small groups, though never more than two or three.

    Bian, usually quiet, finally speaks up, her eyes gleaming with determination. ¡°What if we went to explore the outside?¡± she suggests, barely concealing her excitement. ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be a full expedition, just a quick survey of the area. We could even return with useful information. That wouldn¡¯t go against teacher¡¯s orders, right?¡±

    Her words hang in the air, met with hesitant glances. But one by one, the group begins to nod. Even Mai Ly, though reluctant, eventually gives in. ¡°Alright,¡± she sighs. ¡°But we better be prepared. I¡¯m talking rations, weapons, and especially torches. Just a quick peek around the temple. Nothing more. And then we leave.¡±

    Despite the dangers that could await them, the girls can¡¯t contain their enthusiasm. Their voices fill the night as they plan, talking eagerly well into the early hours.

    The day of the expedition arrives with the cool, crisp air of morning dew as Bian and her friends sneak off toward the temple. Their resolve is firm: just a quick look, nothing more. As they travel¡ªmostly by walking and occasionally by magic-infused carriages¡ªpast wide fields of rice where farmers gather to start their day, and through a forest of lush bamboo that blocks just enough of the sun to keep them cool, the excitement swells in their hearts.

    Finally, as the day unfolds and the looming silhouette of the temple appears on the horizon, the prospect of being the first to step foot inside in over a century becomes too tempting to resist.

    When they arrive, the ancient structure stands before them, as if calling their names. Its weathered stone walls are lined with cracks and wrapped in vines, and the sight of the grand entrance fills them with awe. Bian, with her heart pounding in her chest, steps forward, her pulse racing. She casts a glance over her shoulder at her friends, all of them mirroring her excitement. Together, they take their first steps inside, venturing deep into the unknown.

    Deeper inside the temple, where light does not reach, the girls find themselves surrounded by monstrous Quis. The air is heavy with the stench of decay and the sound of clashing weapons. On the other side of the chamber, Cam Tu and Luan are fighting desperately for their lives, while Mai Ly shields injured Bian.

    ¡°Stay down, Bian!¡± Mai barked, her blade flashing in the dim light as she cut down a lunging Qui.

    But Bian gritted her teeth, pulling herself to her feet. Together, they began to push back the Quis, their movements driven by desperation to survive. Just as the momentum picks up, a scream tore through the chamber.

    ¡°Cam!¡± Bian''s head whipped around.

    Across the chamber, Cam Tu and Luan are lying on the ground, blood pooling beneath them. Standing above their lifeless forms was their teacher, Tien Lam, her blade dripping red. Her face was cold, her betrayal undeniable.

    ¡°Cam! Luan! No!¡± Bian¡¯s scream as she rushes toward her fallen sisters.

    A Qui lunged at her from the side, its claws reaching for her throat. Before she could react, Mai Ly intercepts, taking the brunt of the strike.

    "Run!" Mai growled, shoving Bian backward with all her strength.

    ¡°No¡ª¡± Bian tried to speak up, but was cut short as Mai hurled her into a gaping hole in the floor.

 Chapter 3

    <h2>Chapter 3</h2>

    Back to when it all started, Bian¡¯s eyes snap open as the importance of her new mission courses¨Clike lightning¨Cthrough her veins. Pulling herself up from the ground is more painful than she expected, but nothing compares to the sensation she felt when her spirit first merged with Ha Linh. The rubble shifts with her movements, causing a nearby wall to collapse, revealing a hidden room. Bian drags her battered body toward the room and lights the torch Mai Ly insisted they all bring.

    The room is small, so it isn¡¯t long before the light reveals the body of a woman. From the golden robes still draped around her, it¡¯s clear this is Ha Linh. The spirit is unusually quiet. Ha Linh, the founder of Ahn Sang and a hero to the thousands who lived in her city, died alone in the darkness. From the marks around the room, it¡¯s clear she tried to fight her way out, but her spirit was too weak after the ambush.

    Bian can¡¯t leave her body like this. As she moves to pick up the corpse, she notices a journal in its hand¡ªtattered, but still legible.

    ¡°What is this?¡± Bian calls out to the spirit.

    After a moment, Ha Linh answers, ¡°It¡¯s my final memory¡­ before it became too difficult to write. Take it. We¡¯re going to use it to hunt down those traitors.¡±

    Bian looks around some more, remembering the mission that originally intrigued them. ¡°Where are your bracers? We were sent down here to retrieve them.¡±

    Ha Linh laughs bitterly, ¡°They took everything from me! Those treacherous bastards. Of course, they would lie to each other as well. They cut me down and stole my belongings. All they left me was a journal to record my final days. To plan my revenge.¡±

    Bian gathers Ha Linh''s corpse and places it alongside Mai¡¯s. She whispers a small prayer to her fallen friends before leaving.

    With Ha Linh''s spirit at her side, she will not only seek vengeance for her sisters but right a wrong in history. The Coalition''s power was built on lies and deceit, and it¡¯s time for the truth to rise. With each step she takes, memories of her sisters flash through her mind, fueling her as she claws her way through dirt and stone. After hours of battling the temple debris, she finally sees a sliver of sunlight. Her moment of joy is quickly eclipsed by a familiar chittering sound that surrounds her.

    The Quis are still here. Were they waiting for her? Did they sense the spirit of Ha Linh? These questions race through her mind, but none of it matters at the moment. All she needs to know is how to survive. That¡¯s when the spirit calls out to her, "Use me. Use the rage within you."

    She knows what to do, Bian looks deep within herself. Betrayed by the teacher she trusted, her sisters cut down, and these monsters daring to attack her again¡ªBian is not in short supply of rage. A deep anger swells inside her until it finally bursts out against the Quis. She has never felt such power surging within her, every sense heightened to an inhuman degree. If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    Bian is moving faster than she¡¯s ever before, her fists like hammers through the first Quis. The creature¡¯s shadowy form erupts in a guttural growl, its sickly yellow eyes extinguished in a brutal instant. A second Qui lunges from her flank, but her heightened senses catch its movement before it can strike. Bian releases an explosive blast of¡­ fire, not water. ¡°This must be Ha Linh¡¯s powers.¡± Bian thought to herself.  The force from her fist sends it hurtling backward, its form dissipating against the wall.

    For the first time, Bian feels an overwhelming surge of power coursing through her, powerful and intoxicating. Is this what Ha Linh felt everytime she fought? This power, this greatness¡ªit is beyond anything Bian has imagined. She is a force of nature, an extension of might and magic in the purest form, and she loves it. With a flurry of dominating strikes, the remaining Quis fall one by one, their forms crumbling into nothingness. When the final shadow evaporates, Bian stands alone, her breathing quickens.

    ¡°That was amazing! I¡¯ve never felt so strong! I¡ª¡± Before she can finish her celebration, Bian is suddenly overwhelmed with a pain so intense she can do nothing but let out a scream that echoes throughout the chamber. Like a thousand burning needles coursing through her body, each trying to pierce her skin.

    ¡°What is this?! What¡¯s happening to me?¡± Bian cries out.

    Ha Linh pushes Bian through the pain. "Control yourself! Endure! What did you think would happen when you wielded my power?"

    "You monster! What are you doing to me? You''re killing me!" Bian screams, her body finally feeling the full effects of using Ha Linh¡¯s powers. Looking at her body, Bian notices that her fists are cracked from the punches, her nose bleeding, and she¡¯s doing everything she can to not cough up blood. Luckily, her anger is a good distraction from the pain.

    "No! I saved you! You were already dead, child, and I gave you power. Did you think it would come without consequences?" Ha Linh''s unremorseful tone cuts through the pain.

    Bian knows she¡¯s right. Her life had been as good as gone anyway, but that doesn¡¯t make the pain any more bearable.

    Through gritted teeth, Bian mutters, "So, what happens to me now?"

    Ha Linh¡¯s tone softens as Bian does, "We have a year. Maybe less. Pure magic is coursing through your body, and every time you use my spirit, it¡¯ll take a little bit of your life force. Use it too much, and your body will crumble. If you don¡¯t use it at all, you¡¯ll be killed before getting your revenge. Face it¡ªwe need each other. It¡¯s too late to turn back now."

    Bian clenches her fist¡ªfeeling every bruise and cut¡ªat the thought of being stuck with Ha Linh. Just yesterday, she would have been excited at the idea of meeting her hero, but now, this... creature of malevolent anger.

    Even in their brief interaction, Bian can feel Ha Linh¡¯s resentment of the Coalition is beginning to corrupt her. Will she even last a year? How long until Ha Linh fully takes over? As these questions race through her mind, Bian bites down on her lip, hard enough to draw blood. "Fine. A year is more than enough."

    Ha Linh lets out an uncharacteristically genuine smile. The two continue toward the light until finally breaking through the rubble. After what seems like an eternity, Bian and Ha Linh meet the sun with renewed vigor, vengeance pulsing in their hearts. To fight the pain, Bian repeats the questions in her mind. ¡°Who wanted to send us here? Did they send the Quis?¡± And most importantly, ¡°Why did Tien Lam betray us?¡±

    Even after all Tien did, Bian can¡¯t help but hope that maybe her teacher had a good reason¡­

    It matters little now. She¡¯ll get these answers before killing the first of the Coalition.

 Chapter 4

    In a dimly lit, opulent chamber, five cloaked figures sit hidden in shadow. Their faces shrouded, listening as two men at the center¡ªone tall and imposing with a regal gray beard, the other scrawny and hunched¡ªdiscuss the future of their group. The bearded man, Minister Thanh Rong, is stern and unyielding. His gold and red robes embroidered with a dragon serve as stately if blunt symbols of his power. Meanwhile, his smaller counterpart, Chout, oozes arrogance while dressed in the unkempt and flamboyant clothes of a pirate. A perpetual smirk on his face.

    Chout sneers, "Well, well, well. Looks like the great Minister Thanh Rong needs my services again."

    The minister remains still, his expression unreadable. Chout leans in, poking the dragon. "What is it this time? Smuggling? Sabotage? Need someone... eliminated?"

    A slight tension flickers across Thanh Rong¡¯s eyes, barely noticeable, but Chout catches it, his grin widening.

    "Ah, that¡¯s it, isn¡¯t it? Well, alright. I¡¯ve been a bit bored. Who needs killing?"

    "The Vipress," Thanh Rong replies, his tone cold as ice.

    The cloaked figures exchange uneasy glances, clearly unaware of the plan.

    Chout raises an eyebrow, feigning disbelief. "I must''ve misheard. I thought you said you wanted me to kill the Vipress."

    "Chout, do not make me repeat myself. The Vipress has shown that she no longer stands with the Coalition. She is a threat."

    Chout, taken aback, hesitates. "She¡¯s always been a wild one, but to take her out completely? A move like that needs a unanimous vote."

    He scans the room, searching for anyone to speak against the Minister. There is none.

    "You have your assignment," Thanh Rong states definitively. "Your price will be waiting on your ship."

    Chout¡¯s smirk fades. He knows better than to argue. "Fine."

    As he turns to leave, Thanh Rong¡¯s voice calls to him. "And Chout... make sure to deal with her little orphans as well¡­"

    ***

    Exiting the meeting chamber, Chout slips through a series of shadowed alleyways, dodging crowds of market-goers and avoiding patrols. The stench of saltwater mixed with spices¨Clemongrass and garlic cloves¨Cfill the air as he weaves through the narrow streets, finally reaching the docked smuggling boat.

    His crew¡ªan unsavory collection of cutthroats and creatures¡ªare busy unloading treasures sent from the minister''s vault, along with crates of Kiemloung and a case of Matech bricks. A man, with a single scar across his cheek approaches Chout, ¡°Where to, captain?¡±The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

    Chout looks toward the horizon, ¡°To the Orchid Academy¡­ We got a snake to kill.¡±

    His crew raise their flag¨Ca black banner emblazoned with the image of a rat with wings, infamous symbol of the flying rat pirates¨Cas they sail towards the moon.

    ***

    We arrive at the familiar sight of the Orchid Academy. Trainees practice in the sparring area, just as Bian and Mai Ly once did. Their teacher is absent.

    One of the trainees asks, ¡°When do you think Teacher will be back?¡±

    ¡°Probably when she finds Bian and the other elder sisters, but not before giving them a stern lecture,¡± the other replies.

    ¡°Yeah, what were they thinking, sneaking out like that? They¡ª¡± But before she can finish, a deafening explosion erupts nearby, encasing one of the rooms in a blast of magical ice. Shards of icicles shoot through the air, piercing the surrounding sisters. Screams echo through the Academy.

    ¡°Pirates!¡± one girl shouts. ¡°Everyone, grab your weapons!¡±

    The sisters scramble to arm themselves, but the pirates attack too quickly for them to engage with a proper response. The flying rat pirates infuse their magic into the very same bricks they were carrying earlier, unleashing a relentless barrage of cold and fiery explosions that ruthlessly tears through the Orchids, destroying everything in sight.

    Chout saunters into the square as the pirates round up the surviving girls. ¡°Orchids, ladies, where is the Vipress?¡± he sneers.

    One of the elder sisters, shielding her younger siblings, steps forward. ¡°We don¡¯t know who that is. And even if we did, no one here would help you, pirate.¡± She spits at his feet.

    Chout nods toward one of his lackeys, who charges at the girl¡ªonly to be swiftly taken down. ¡°HA!¡± The Rat Captain lets out an unrestrained laugh, ¡°The Vipress trained you well¡­ But,¡± surveying the destruction and fallen sisters, ¡°not well enough.¡±

    The Rats close in. The girls tighten their formation, weapons raised.

    Chout takes a step closer, his voice oozing with false sympathy. ¡°Look, I¡¯m not unreasonable. Tell us where your teacher is, and we¡¯ll let you go. We¡¯ll even give these girls a proper burial. Right, Rats?¡±

    His crew of pirates nod all too eagerly.

    The girls exchange glances, preparing themselves. They know what must be done. In unison, they draw their weapons. ¡°Better to die with honor than live with shame.¡±

    Chout shakes his head, sighing. ¡°Always better to live.¡± He gestures, and the pirates strike. The Orchids fight fiercely, cutting down as many Rats as they can, but they are hopelessly outnumbered.

    The same scarred man approaches. ¡°The Minister¡¯s going to be pissed.¡±

    Chout retorts, ¡°Oh, is he? Thanks for the insight. Now, search this place! There must be something here that tells us where she went.¡±

    The nervous pirate calls out to the others, ¡°Rats! Scatter! We¡¯re looking for signs of the Vipress!¡±

    They fan out, ransacking the academy.

    Suddenly, a blood-curdling scream pierces the air. Chout arrives at the scene to find one of his men convulsing on the ground, foam bubbling at his mouth.

    ¡°What happened?¡± Chout demands.

    ¡°We opened a chest,¡± another Rat stammers. ¡°A dart shot out and hit him in the neck¡­ then he just started¡­¡± He gestures helplessly at the dead man.

    Pursing his lips, Chout is obviously frustrated. ¡°I should have known. She¡¯s too clever to leave clues behind. Gather the men. We¡¯re leaving.¡±

    One of the Rats hesitates, glancing back. ¡°What about the Academy?¡±

    His voice turns snide. ¡°Burn it all."

 Chapter 5

    As dawn breaks, Bian steps into the smoke-filled remnants of what used to be her home, still smoldering from last night¡¯s destruction. Broken structures, burnt stone, and the haunting scent of death lingers in the air. She winces at the bodies of her sisters scattered among the rubble, still holding their weapons in hand.

    Her eyes rush over to one of the bodies¨Cthe same trainee who was speaking back to Chout. A shard of ice buried deep in her chest. Bian kneels down beside the girl, her hands slowly brushing the ash from her pale face.

    "Did Tien Lam do this?" Bian asks, barely holding it together.

    ¡°No,¡± Ha Linh replies.

    A wave of relief washes over Bian. For a brief moment, she is grateful her former teacher wasn¡¯t responsible for such a massacre.

    "But I think I know who did this," Ha Linh continues. "I recognize his magic-infused explosives anywhere. Only Chout¡¯s matech bricks could have caused this level of devastation."

    Bian surveys the scene. ¡°Why?¡± Now holding back anger. "Why? Why would he come here?"

    "I don¡¯t know why he attacked the academy," Ha Linh admits, her tone softer than usual as she takes in the wreckage alongside Bian. "But this was definitely him. He always struggled to control his lust for destruction. Back when he was our ally, we could focus his wrath on the Quis. It seems now he''s directed it elsewhere."

    Bian clenches her fists, her knuckles turning white, but she doesn''t shed a tear. There is no time for sorrow, no room for weakness. ¡°Then where do we find him?¡±

    Ha Linh hesitates for a moment, recalling the man she once knew. ¡°Chout and I used to be... friends almost, after long battles and many lost allies. Water always flows back to its source. He was always drawn to places where the law didn¡¯t reach and where drinks flowed freely. We¡¯ll find him in a place like that.¡±The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    ¡°Song Yeun,¡± she said, without a moment¡¯s hesitation. ¡°It¡¯s a port town a day¡¯s walk from here, notorious for its debauchery. Teacher told us never to go there.¡±

    ¡°Then that¡¯s where we¡¯ll start.¡± Ha Linh said.

    Bian takes a breath. She proceeds to whisper a small prayer for her fallen sisters before heading out.

    ***

    Nearly half a day has passed, and neither have spoken a word. Perhaps it was Bian, still processing the destruction of her home and the betrayal of her teacher. Or maybe it was Ha Linh, grappling with the new world after being trapped for fifty years.

    But most likely, it was because the two have little in common.

    Curious, Bian asks, ¡°So, how is this going to work when we¡¯re around other people?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Ha Linh replies, a hint of confusion in her voice.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it going to be weird that I¡¯m walking around with the spirit of a legendary hero?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m a part of you. The only reason you can see me is because your mind manifested me. The only other people who could see me would be experienced Ma Thuat Techs, and even then, it would be rare.¡±

    ¡°So, the Coalition?¡± Bian presses.

    ¡°Yeah, they better. I want them to know who¡¯s killing them.¡± Ha Linh¡¯s voice is sharp, barely containing her malice.

    The silence continues for a bit¡­

    ¡°You know,¡± Ha Linh says with a scoff as they trudge through the dense forests of Ahn Sang. ¡°None of those stories they tell about me are true. At least, not entirely. Chout and others of the Coalition embellished a lot of those stories¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Bian asks, her voice flat but curious.

    ¡°They needed a symbol, something pure and heroic. The Coalition wanted the people to rally behind a legend, not some foul-mouthed warrior with a temper.¡± Ha Linh laughs bitterly. ¡°Chout was always good at spinning stories. He weaved tall tales about our battles, erased the uglier parts of our history, the more brutal ones. They made me into something greater than I actually was.¡±

    Bian takes a moment. ¡°So you were never the legend they said you were?¡±

    ¡°Oh, I was a warrior. I bled, I fought, I led people to victory,¡± Ha Linh replies. ¡°But I was never the saint they made me out to be.¡±

    There is a lull before Bian breaks the silence. ¡°That might be for the best now. For what we¡¯re doing, we don¡¯t need a saint.¡±

    It¡¯s brief, but Ha Linh lets out a small smile.

 Chapter 6

    As they continue their journey, Bian shows Ha Linh pieces of the new world she had left behind. From the innovations that sprung from her legacy to wide fields now safe thanks to her efforts in culling the Quis.

    They see farmers operating magic-infused bamboo vehicles that plowed the rice fields of their home, crystal-powered Dat Thanhs¨Cconstructs imbued with magic¨C working tirelessly in the forests, and the dragon-shaped airships that now patrolled the skies, transporting both people and goods across the continent.

    Ha Linh remains quiet as Bian speaks, watching the world she had once known evolve into something strange and foreign, but ultimately a place of good.

    ¡°You may not have been exactly like the stories, but you still laid the foundation for all of this,¡± Bian says. ¡°Without your courage to be the first, we probably would not have advanced far as a society.¡±

    ¡°I suppose I should be flattered,¡± Ha Linh says dryly. ¡°But look where it got me. Betrayed by the people I once thought to be my allies.¡±

    Ha Linh glances over at Bian, who is quietly walking beside her. ¡°Right,¡± she replies, recognizing that Bian is probably one of the few people in this world who understands what she is going through. Pulling back a little, Ha Linh tries to ease the tension, ¡°You know, I was scared to fly on one of those things when they were first made.¡± Bian lets out a brief smile. Ha Linh continues, ¡°No, seriously, they had to literally drag me on board.¡±Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

    After a moment, Bian lets out an audible chuckle. ¡°The legend of Ahn Sang, crippled by flying. I¡¯m glad that didn¡¯t make it into the stories.¡±

    They share a laugh, a nice moment in their difficult journey.

    ***

    By the time they reach Song Yeun, the sun is beginning to set. The port town is as chaotic as Bian described. The streets are teeming with sailors, thieves, and merchants, all either looking to make some quick Che to fill their pockets or lose themselves in the bottom of a bottle. Bian had never been this far from the Orchid Academy before.

    She stands at the edge of the town, taking it all in: the ringing of ship bells on the dock ahead, the scent of saltwater mixed with smoked seafood, the arguments that filled the air. It is a completely different world from the quiet comfort she felt in the academy.

    ¡°You ready?¡± Ha Linh¡¯s voice echoes in her mind.

    Bian nods silently.

    ¡°Get used to it all,¡± Ha Linh says, as encouraging as she could muster. ¡°100 years and this place hasn¡¯t changed a bit. This town has always been where the rules don¡¯t matter, so tread carefully and don¡¯t trust anyone¡­ Especially small kids.¡±

    Bian takes a deep breath, steeling herself. The road to revenge was only beginning, and it would be rough, bloody, and full of difficult choices. There¡¯s no turning back now. She looks out over the chaotic port town that might hold the information to find Chout and the answers she is desperately searching for.

    With Ha Linh¡¯s spirit at her side, Bian would tear down anyone who stood between her and vengeance¡­ Even if it cost her life.

    ¡°Let¡¯s find the rat,¡± Bian whispers, her eyes narrowing as she steps into the beating heart of Song Yeun.

 Chapter 7

    With the ruins of the Orchid Academy behind them, and the memories of her fallen sisters leaving an indelible mark on her heart, Bian and Ha Linh take their first steps into Song Yeun, determined to find Chout, her teacher, and vengeance for the Orchids.

    They begin asking around the docks, moving through taverns and alleyways where sailors and lowlifes gather. Many of the locals sneer at Bian¡ªan obvious stranger in their town¡ªmaking lewd comments or dismissing her completely.

    ¡°Friendly group of people¡­¡± Bian comments to Ha Linh.

    Suddenly, Bian feels a hand reach out to grab her. Reacting in a flash, she turns around, only to find a small girl with pigtails.

    The girl gasps, surprised by Bian¡¯s quick movement.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry! I didn¡¯t mean to scare you,¡± Bian apologizes.

    Ha Linh rolls her eyes. ¡°Behind you.¡±

    Bian glances back and spots another child reaching for her money purse. ¡°Hey!¡± She yells, grabbing her bag just in time. The two kids scamper off, their plan ruined.

    ¡°Seriously? Children?¡± Bian exclaims, disbelief written across her face.

    ¡°I warned you from the beginning,¡± Ha Linh says, annoyed. ¡°Don¡¯t trust small kids. Small kids, small hands. Easier to take your stuff.¡±

    Frustrated, Bian raises her voice at the spirit. ¡°AGH! This is annoying! We¡¯ve been asking around for hours, and no one can help. Or rather, no one wants to help.¡±

    People start to stare, and Bian immediately realizes how she must look¡ªa newcomer yelling at herself in the middle of the docks. She retreats into a nearby alley.

    ***

    Ha Linh, oozing sarcasm, ¡°That was not at all crazy.¡±

    Bian continues, still frustrated. ¡°What if Chout isn¡¯t even here anymore? He could have already left town. We need to try something else to get people¡¯s attention.¡±

    Ha Linh thinks for a moment. ¡°Okay, I have an idea. Get some of those rocks.¡±

    After a bit, Bian resumes asking around the docks, this time waving a hefty purse¡ªone she didn¡¯t have before.

    ¡°Coins for anyone with information about ships that have recently docked here.¡± Bian jingles her bag, making sure enough is visible while attempting subtlety.

    You can feel Ha Linh rolling her eyes. ¡°At least try to be a little subtle about it. We don¡¯t want people thinking it¡¯s a trap.¡±

    Eventually, their plan works. A sailor approaches Bian, claiming to have the information they¡¯re looking for. ¡°I can¡¯t tell you here. Follow me¡­¡± The girls exchange knowing glances.

    They follow him into a dark alley, where they find themselves surrounded by a group of seedy-looking sailors. ¡°A pretty girl like you shouldn¡¯t wander these streets with a bag full of coins. Let me relieve you of such a dangerous burden.¡± The sailor grabs Bian¡¯s bag.

    Bian, pleasantly surprised, says to the spirit, ¡°That actually worked. Smart.¡±

    ¡°The older the ginger, the spicier it is. With age comes wisdom,¡± boasts Ha Linh.

    ¡°What?¡± The sailor, barely listening, rummages through her bag. ¡°What is this? They¡¯re just rocks!¡± He flips it over, and dozens of small pebbles spill out.

    ¡°Oh no! Sorry you can¡¯t rob me,¡± Bian says with a tinge of sarcasm. ¡°But I¡¯ll still need some information from you.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s where you¡¯re wrong, girl,¡± the sailor snarls. ¡°You¡¯re going to regret pissing us off.¡± The sailors surrounding Bian quickly draw their blades.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

    Bian looks around at the five men encircling her, weapons drawn, and feels... nothing. Thinking about all she¡¯s been through¡ªnearly dying to literal monsters and communing with the spirit of a hero¡ªBian knows this is not where she¡¯ll die. She raises her fist, ready to fight.

    As she scans the scene, she spots one sailor waving a familiar sword in the air¡ªa Kiemloung from the Orchid Academy. She¡¯d recognize that silver blade anywhere; the way it reflects the moonlight reminds her of the many nights she spent training.

    Without hesitation, she demands, ¡°Where did you get that sword?¡±

    The sailors laugh. ¡°You¡¯re in no position to question us¡ª¡± dismissing her, until Bian¡¯s fist connects with his jaw, sending him sprawling. The others charge, but Bian moves with precision and grace, her strikes quick and efficient. One to the ribs, a kick to the legs, and one directly to the chest¡ªtaking down the entire group while being careful with their mouths and throats, in case she needs them to talk later. Only one sailor remains conscious¡ªthe man with the Kiemloung, pinned beneath her foot as she glares down at him.

    "Last time I¡¯m asking, where did you get the sword?" she demands.

    Gasping for breath, the sailor stammers, "The Flying Rats¡­ they sold them to us¡­ We didn¡¯t know where they came from, I swear!"

    Bian releases her boot. ¡°You will take me to them.¡± The sailor knows he has no choice. He nods begrudgingly.

    ***

    Following him, they make their way toward the docks where the Flying Rats are docked.

    While traveling, Bian learns more about them from the sailor, ¡°The Flying Rat pirates are a notorious band of thieves and cutthroats, known for terrorizing the coast. They primarily attack the homes and ships of nobles. It¡¯s a wonder that the military hasn¡¯t been able to catch them yet¡­¡±

    ¡°One would say suspicious, as if they were being protected,¡± Ha Linh proposes.

    They arrive. From a distance, Bian spots the brigands lounging around their ship; some are even carelessly swinging Kiemloungs at each other.

    ¡°You can go¡­ Wait, gimme that!¡± Bian grabs the sword.

    Bian approaches without fear, her hand gripping the hilt of the Kiemloung.

    As she enters their territory, one of the pirates spots her and sneers, "Looks like we¡¯ve got a lost little lamb wandering into the wolves¡¯ den."

    A beat¡­ ¡°What?¡± Bian says.

    ¡°Yeah, what does that mean?¡± another pirate adds, equally confused.

    ¡°A lamb! She¡¯s a young girl, so like a lamb, and we¡¯re the wolves,¡± the first pirate explains.

    ¡°Why would a lamb go anywhere near a wolves¡¯ den? They can probably smell them.¡±

    This continues for a bit until they get too frustrated.

    ¡°Forget it! The point is, what do you want, little girl?¡±

    Bian steps forward. ¡°Were you the ones who attacked the Orchid Academy recently?¡± Already knowing the answer.

    The pirates look at her clothing and sword¡ªobviously similar to the girls from their most recent attacks¡ªand share passing glances. There is a calmness in the air as Bian and the pirates stare at each other. Neither side wants to make the first move, but all are ready to strike.

    Suddenly, gunpowder erupts in the air as a pirate in the back fires his pistol at Bian, but she¡¯s ready. Bian quickly dodges the bullet and braces herself as the pirates close in. She feints left, drawing the nearest attacker into a clumsy swing before pivoting around, her movements flowing like water. Her Kiemloung arcs upward, carving through the pirate¡¯s guard, leaving a trail of frozen blood. As the other pirates charge in, Bian spins low, her blade sweeping their legs out from under them, then rises in a flash to parry the descending dagger of a third. Bian pushes against the blade with her own overwhelming might.

    At the end of the pier, the scarred man watches, unmoving, his maces resting at his sides. Bian presses forward, striking like a tropical storm. But her momentum comes to a halt as the scarred man finally makes his move, closing the distance with brutality. His first mace swings wide. Bian is barely able to dodge the attack, but the second smashes into her blade, the sheer force nearly shattering her arms. The heat from Ha Linh strengthens Bian¡¯s resolve as she tightens her grip on her Kiemloung, raising it in defiance against the towering enforcer and the grinning pirates that surround her.

    "You¡¯re strong. Stronger than before, but you can¡¯t win this fight on your own. Not without using my powers."

    Bian hesitates, still wary of giving up control. "No¡­ I can do this."

    Ha Linh presses on. "If you fall, there will be no one left to avenge them. Trust me, Bian."

    Bian looks around at the pirates. Ha Linh is right. Reluctantly, Bian allows the spirit to take partial control. Her body shifts, becoming more agile and lethal as the two fight in unison. Together, they charge at the scarred man, dodging his torrent of swings as the maces destroy their surroundings.

    After a series of attacks, Bian tears through the pirates with extreme precision and wrath, leaving none alive as they make their way toward the ship, where¡ª

    Chout stands waiting, leaning casually against the mast of his ship, his ever-present smirk stretching across his face. "I have to admit, I didn¡¯t expect you to make it this far," he says, a glint of recognition sparking in his eyes. "Is that... Ha Linh? How¡ª"

 Chapter 8 (Finale for Book 1)

    Ha Linh¡¯s voice echoes out of Bian¡¯s mouth. ¡°Thought you killed me? Well, you¡¯re not exactly wrong. You and the rest of them just couldn¡¯t finish the job. For years, I sat in that temple, dreaming of this day.¡±

    Bian¡¯s voice returns to her body. Her eyes narrow, her grip tightening on the sword. "And you¡¯ll pay for what you did to the Orchid Academy."

    They charge, and her sword meets his dagger. Both bounce back from the force.

    Chout chuckles. "You don¡¯t understand, do you? The Orchids were never our true targets. We were after the Vipress." His eyes gleam as he studies Bian. "You really didn¡¯t know? Wow, I gotta give her credit. I didn¡¯t think she could play the pleasant teacher for that long. Well, in that case, let me shed some light on your dark world. That kind-hearted teacher of yours¡ªshe isn¡¯t who you thought she was. The Vipress was the Coalition¡¯s deadliest assassin, more ruthless than any of us. She did things that even I found too appalling. Just ask your hero if you don¡¯t believe me."

    Ha Linh¡¯s silence confirms Chout¡¯s words.

    Before Bian can process the revelation, Chout continues, ¡°And you think an ancient spirit and a broken girl are going to destroy the Coalition? You have no idea who you¡¯re dealing with. We took you down after barely tapping into the magic of chaos. What chance do you have now that we¡¯ve had years to master it? You always told us to avoid it, but look at what chaos has done for us. It¡¯s given us control. Control over the continent, our spirit, our bodies, and best of all, it made us powerful!¡± As he speaks, Chout¡¯s form twists and warps, his body swelling as red lightning crackles around him. His eyes grow a sickly yellow as he morphs into a monstrous, grotesque creature¡ªa giant rat, covered in thick, matted fur and bulging with unnatural strength. With a bellow, he hurls a massive brick at Bian.

    Bian ducks under a wild swing of Chout¡¯s oversized claws, the force of his attack tearing through the ship¡¯s mast and splintering wood around them. The deck tilts as the ship groans under the strain of their battle, but Bian holds her ground. His blows lack control yet devastatingly effective. She counters with quick slashes of her Kiemloung, her water magic biting into his flesh, but it¡¯s not enough¡ªChout is faster, stronger, and unrelenting. He continues unleashing massive explosions from his bricks, forcing her to leap aside. Unfortunately, the explosion throws Bian off balance. She lands hard, sliding across the splintered wood. Chout snarls, his glowing yellow eyes fixed on her with glee.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    "No!" she shouts, her voice strained as she dodges another blast.

    But then, one of the matech bricks hits its mark, fire erupts, sending Bian crashing down. Her vision blurs, and for a brief moment, she feels Ha Linh¡¯s presence growing stronger within her.

    As Bian loses consciousness, her eyes glow cerulean as Ha Linh takes full control, her voice fills with cold rage as she drives Bian¡¯s body forward. Her attacks are strong and relentless, eventually, one of them slices deep into Chout¡¯s side with a powerful strike, forcing him to revert to his human form.

    But Bian¡¯s consciousness echoes from within. "Stop! You¡¯re killing me!"

    Her body shakes, blood seeping from cracks in her skin as the possession takes its toll.

    ¡°Endure, child!¡± Just as Ha Linh prepares to deal the final blow, Bian fights back, thrashing against the ship and forcing the spirit to release her.

    Bian staggers, coughing up blood, but she stands firm. "That¡¯s it! If you take over my body without my permission again, I will end it all myself."

    Amidst the chaos, Chout escapes. ¡°Damn you, you foolish girl! Look at what you have done!¡± Ha Linh screams.

    The two argue, their relationship reaching a breaking point. "I¡¯m only allowing you to inhabit my body," Bian says through gritted teeth. "I¡¯ve already lost too much. I won¡¯t lose myself as well!"

    Ha Linh, seething with frustration yet sensing Bian¡¯s struggle, relents. "Fine! But you need to train. I won¡¯t tolerate weakness. You¡¯ll never survive what¡¯s coming without my knowledge."

    "Then teach me," Bian replies. "Teach me everything you know." The two finally come to an agreement.

    Looking around the ship, Bian spots a set of letters on Chout¡¯s desk, correspondence between him and another. ¡°Take a look at these. They¡¯re talking about my teacher¡ª¡± Catching herself, ¡°The Vipress. It sounds like Chout suspected this, Bo Khun of hiding her. Do you recognize this?¡± She points to a symbol of two crossed axes behind the silhouette of an ox.

    Ha Linh stares at the symbol for a moment. ¡°We need to go to the mountains, but first, you need to train.¡±

    Bian nods. ¡°I¡¯m going to need a stronger sword.¡±

    <h2>TO BE CONTINUED</h2>

 Chapter 9 (Beginning of Book 2: Tales of the Bull)

    The sun streams in through an open window of a cozy wooden house. In the kitchen, a girl sits at an old worn table beside her mother, their hands and faces dusted with flour as they press dough into small, delicate circles.

    ¡°Remember, make it flat. Then we put in the fillings,¡± her mother says, smiling as she watches her daughter add just a little too much shrimp and pork filling to the dough. ¡°Is this how your mom taught you to make banh bot loc?¡± The girl asks her mother as her small fingers fumble at filling the dough, but there¡¯s an unmistakable joy in the act. They share a quiet laugh.

    ¡°I¡¯ll put these in the water. You better go get your father or else there will be nothing left for him to eat,¡± her mother tells her.

    Outside, the steady rhythm of hammering echoes throughout the yard. Her father stands over his anvil, a thin man with a kind face, his focus intense as he shapes the metal knife with each strike. He pauses for a moment to wipe the sweat from his brow, and catches his daughter through the open door. He waves, and the girl¡¯s face lights up in response.

    ¡°Dad! Mom said you better get in here soon or else there¡¯s not going to be any more food!¡± She calls out to him.

    He laughs in response, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be right there!¡±

    The girl smiles and returns to her mother¡¯s side. ¡°Okay, remember how I taught you to make the dough?¡± Her mother asks. The little girl nods and makes gentle movements with her hands. With a flick of her wrist, fire erupts from under the pot of water. The other hand gently guides a thin thread of water from a nearby jar, gently mixing with the dough in front of her. With smooth circular movements from her hands the ingredients quickly intertwine and mix together. All without her ever touching it.

    ¡°You¡¯ve been practicing,¡± her mother says, watching the dough twist and curl.This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

    The girl nods. ¡°It¡¯s easier now.¡±

    Her mother leans in, lowering her voice. ¡°Soon, you¡¯ll be able to do more than just make bread with your gifts. Although, you must be careful.¡±

    ¡°Careful of what?¡± The girl innocently asks.

    Her mother takes a moment before answering, ¡°Careful not to get it all on yourself!¡± The girl laughs as her mother sprinkles some of the flour on her face.

    Laughter resonates through the home. The mother cups her cheek, thumb brushing away a stray bit of flour. Outside, her father hums a song to himself as he puts away his tools. But then, he stops. Something changes in the air.

    The sunlight in the room dims, and a shadow falls over the house. The girl looks up, confused, as the blue sky outside shifts, taking on an unnatural hue¡ªa deep, bruised purple.

    Her mother stands, she looks off into the distance. Her expression becomes anxious. ¡°Go get your father.¡±

    The girl rises, moving toward the door, but something stops her¡ªflicker of yellow lights across the way, barely visible through the trees, but getting closer. She squints, trying to make sense of it, but as the lights grow brighter, they multiply, now a swarm.

    Suddenly, her father bursts through the door. ¡°Get away from the windows! They¡¯re coming!¡± His voice cracks with urgency.

    Everything becomes a blur. Her mother pushes her toward the back entrance of the house. Grabbing her by the shoulders, ¡°You need to run! Run and don¡¯t look back!¡± She¡¯s too stunned to resist, too shocked to do anything but obey. Her father, now with a sword in hand, gestures for her mother to help him barricade the entrance with their kitchen table. A great force slams against the house. Her mother turns to her, screaming ¡°Run!¡±

    That¡¯s enough to snap the little girl out of her haze. She spins around and bolts. Eyes locked on the tree line, she pushes herself to go faster. As she reaches closer to the trees, she starts to feel a pull¡­ Despite her mother¡¯s warning, she pauses for a moment to glance back. Her mother and father are still safe. A thin smile flickers on her face, only to vanish as large shadows begin to surround them. Her father raises his sword in defense, but the shadowy figures easily cut them down before her eyes. Heart pounding, tears streaming down her face, she rips herself away and disappears into the forest.

 Chapter 10

    Bian jolts awake, clawing out of her bedroll while gasping for breath. Her heart pounding in her chest, her face dripping with sweat.

    ¡°Same dream?¡± Ha Linh¡¯s voice echoes in her mind, calm, but firm.

    Catching her breath, ¡°I don¡¯t know if you can even call it a dream. It felt so vivid. Real. Do you think it could have been a memory? Something from my childhood?¡±

    ¡°Do you remember anything from before you joined the Orchids?¡± Ha Linh inquires, reserved, but curious nonetheless.

    ¡°No. And the Vipress never told me about how she found me either. Whenever I try to remember my past, it''s all just a blur.¡±

    Ha Linh tries to relate, ¡°Maybe it¡¯s a good thing. Not everything is worth remembering.¡±

    Bian takes a moment, still exhausted from the dream, ¡°Yeah, maybe you¡¯re right¡­¡±

    ¡°Well, dwelling on it now won¡¯t help us. Come on, we need to continue your training.¡± Ha Linh¡¯s words ring in Bian¡¯s mind.

    After a moment, Bian steps out of her small tent, into a beautiful valley resting between towering mountains. The crisp morning air brushes against her skin, allowing her a bit of relief from the nightmares. She inhales deeply, trying to steady herself, shaking off the night before.

    Closing her eyes, Bian raises her hands, moving with care. In the calmness of her mind, Ha Linh¡¯s voice returns, steady. ¡°Feel your energy within you. Let it flow. Let that familiar feeling anchor you.¡± Bian¡¯s arms sweep in slow, deliberate arcs, her focus sharp as she follows Ha Linh¡¯s words. ¡°Now, find the heat of energy and guide it towards yours. Let the two become one... Slowly. Don¡¯t rush.¡±

    Bian¡¯s hands shift, her movements precise¡ªreminiscent of the young girl gently mixing water into dough. The memory of the dream lingers, her motions a reflection of that delicate balance.

    But then, her brow begins to furrow as the two energies clash, sparking an imbalance and refusing to merge. Her movements grow stiff, jerky, as she struggles to regain control.

    Ha Linh¡¯s voice echoes once more, now with urgency, ¡°Control it. Gently, but you must be in control.¡±

    Easier said than done. As the harder Bian tries to control the two forces, the more chaotic the energy becomes. Her breath quickens, her grip faltering. Then, it snaps. The power surges violently through her, and with a pained gasp, she falls to her knees, blood splattering from her mouth.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    ¡°You¡¯re fighting it,¡± Ha Linh says, ¡°We¡¯ve been at this for weeks, but you¡¯re still not letting our energy merge. Something is stopping you.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s easy for you to say.¡± Bian stands, pacing in the valley. ¡°Do you have any idea how hard it is to bring our two energies together? Sure, controlling mine is easy. It¡¯s like water. It¡¯s calm. It¡¯s second nature to me. But yours¡­  Yours is different. There¡¯s nothing but rage and fury. Threatening to consume. It¡¯s like¡­ trying to grab fire.¡±

    Ha Linh counters, ¡°Rage and fury is what you need right now. Your power is not enough. It¡¯s only when you¡¯re able to control the fire, will we stand a chance against the Coalition.¡±

    Bian stops, her fists clenching at her sides. ¡°And if I¡¯m not careful your fire takes over. And it¡¯ll destroy me.¡±

    ¡°Then don¡¯t let it,¡± Ha Linh¡¯s voice is unwavering. ¡°You need to be stronger. Control the fire and it will not burn you.¡±

    The two remain silent. So quiet that you can hear the wind whispering through the trees.

    A beat. Ha Linh breaks the silence, ¡°It¡¯s okay. We still have time. Let¡¯s take a break.¡±

    ¡°No, it¡¯s fine. I can continue.¡± Bian raises her hands again and repeats the movements well into the night.

    ***

    They¡¯ve been training for weeks, pushing her limits, trying to find a balance between the two opposing forces. But no matter how hard Bian tries, Ha Linh¡¯s fire still burns too hot, and the cold magic she¡¯s always known feels as if it¡¯s being melted away. A little part of Bian knows she needs to give into the fire and let it flow freely within her. She just can¡¯t bring herself to trust it, to trust Ha Linh. Not after what happened at Song Yeun.

    Morning comes slowly, the first rays of light hitting against her tent. Bian gathers her things, feeling the weight of exhaustion settle in her bones as they prepare to leave.

    By midday, they finally arrive at a small mountain village nestled at the foot of the Black Mountain Temple. It¡¯s quiet, peaceful, the kind of place that feels far away from the complications of her past. The village is built across the mountainside, its wooden homes embedded into the rocks.

    ¡°Are you finally going to tell me why we¡¯re here? Does this have anything to do with the double ax and bull symbol we found on Chout¡¯s letters?¡± Bian questions.

    Ha Linh doesn¡¯t offer much of an answer. ¡°I will tell you everything once we¡¯re at the temple. For now, just think about sleeping in a nice bed for once.¡±

    Bian, surprised by her suggestion, replies, ¡°I didn''t think a spirit would care about where they slept.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t. I¡¯m just tired of listening to you complain about it,¡± Ha Linh clarifies.

    Bian takes another breath of her new surroundings, inhaling the gentle smell of pine trees and boar meat over fire. But even in the serenity of this place, she can¡¯t shake the feeling that what haunted her wasn¡¯t just a nightmare¡ªit was a warning. And whatever lies ahead at the Black Mountain Temple, she¡¯s not sure if she¡¯s ready for it.

 Chapter 11

    The steps leading up to the temple coil around the mountain like a serpent, but today, they are unusually empty. A newly placed wooden signboard stands, blocking Bian¡¯s path. The letters are simple and to the point: Temple Closed.

    Bian stands before the entrance, arms crossed. ¡°Well, that¡¯s not good. How are we supposed to go up?¡± she asks her spirit companion.

    Ha Linh, ever direct, replies, "You¡¯re possessed by unarguably the best ma thuat tech in the realm, and you¡¯re going to let a sign stop you? That¡¯s pathetic."

    Annoyed, but she makes a good point, Bian sidesteps the sign and proceeds forward. Just then, two monks appear in front of her, emerging from the bamboo forests as quick as the wind.

    The monks raise their hands, signaling her to stop.

    ¡°Seriously?¡± Ha Linh mutters in frustration.

    Annoyed, Bian tries to walk around the monks, but they quickly flip back into her path, this time with their matech weapons drawn.

    Bian halts, her fists instinctively rising, but just as quickly, she lowers them.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Ha Linh snaps. ¡°Just get past them.¡±

    ¡°How am I supposed to do that?¡± Bian asks, her annoyance grows.

    ¡°What? You¡¯ve never beaten up monks before? Those that choose to stand in my way, won¡¯t stand for long.¡±

    Bian''s silence is answer enough. As Ha Linh begins to berate her for not starting a fight, they both notice movement in the trees and additional eyes watching from the shadows.

    Bian whispers, ¡°You see that? I count six.¡±

    ¡°Ten,¡± Ha Linh adds. ¡°There¡¯s twelve of these jerks.¡±You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

    ¡°What are the chances they all have weapons?¡± Bian asks.

    ¡°Pretty high.¡±

    ¡°I get the bo staff, but what about the kama? Wait, do monks kill?¡± Bian continues as her eyes cautiously scan the forest.

    ¡°Normal monks, no. But these are probably not normal monks... And if I know who they are, they definitely kill. Pretty damn effective too.¡±

    Bian and Ha Linh patiently weigh their options. As the monks take a step forward, they step back.

    Looking behind them, a crowd has started to form. They¡¯re surrounded. Bian whispers to Ha Linh, ¡°I know these monks annoy you greatly. We don¡¯t need to get into that now, but I don¡¯t think we should fight¡­¡± Looking around, ¡°Everybody¡­¡±

    After a beat. The monks close in. The crowd grows larger.

    Ha Linh finally relents. ¡°Fine. Tell them who you are and that you''re here to learn under the tutelage of Bo Pham, formerly the Giant of Black Mountain.¡±

    Relieved not to fight twelve monks and an entire village, Bian complies. ¡°I am Bian Ong Ma, former member of Orchid Academy, and I have journeyed here to follow the teachings of the Giant of Black Mountain,¡± she says, finishing with a respectful bow.

    The monks exchange glances, then nod and silently disappear into the forest.

    Bian furrows her brow. ¡°Did that work? Why did they just leave without saying anything?¡±

    ¡°See? That¡¯s why they¡¯re annoying,¡± Ha Linh huffs. ¡°You should¡¯ve just beaten them up and stormed the temple.¡±

    Ignoring her spirit¡¯s obvious resentment toward the monks, Bian asks, ¡°Now what?¡±

    ¡°Now we wait for them to deliver the message. Let¡¯s just get a room at the inn.¡±

    ¡°If only it were that simple.¡± Bian sighs, glancing down at her beaten boots, already caked with dust and mud from the long journey. She¡¯s flat broke. They¡¯d spent their last coins getting to the village.

    ¡°Do you know how much a room even costs around here?¡± Bian asks.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Someone usually pays for my stuff. You know, being the savior and greatest hero ever has its perks. So what are you saying? Not only am I dead, but I¡¯m poor too?¡± Ha Linh replies, irritated.

    Bian nods grimly. ¡°You¡¯re dead. I¡¯m poor. Time to get a job.¡±

    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t be too hard, right? You¡¯re a decent fighter, and you¡¯ve got the wisdom of an ancient hero. Work should be easy to come by,¡± Ha Linh says, with utmost confidence.

    Bian rolls her eyes and makes her way toward the inn, a quaint establishment nestled within what looks like a crater carved into the side of the mountain.

    ¡°You don¡¯t see that everyday. I wonder what made the crater?¡± Bian asks.

    ¡°Who cares. Probably some jerk.¡± Ha Linh dismisses the question.

 Chapter 12

    The clatter of cups and bowls fills the air. Bian¡¯s hands are full as she weaves between tables, balancing a tray of steaming dishes. Her uniform¡ªa plain tunic borrowed from the inn¡¯s store¡ªitches at the neck, but she ignores it, forcing a smile as she places another bowl of rice porridge in front of a customer.

    ¡°You¡¯re quicker than I expected!¡± calls the innkeeper, Madam Hoa, a stout woman with sharp eyes but a soft smile. ¡°Keep it up, girl. Maybe you¡¯ll earn a room for the night!¡±

    Bian snorts under her breath but stays polite. "Yes, Madam Hoa," she replies, setting the tray down at the next table.

    Despite the raucous noise of the inn, Bian clearly hears Ha Linh¡¯s annoyance. ¡°I am a hero of the continent! A literal goddess of swords and magic. And look at what I¡¯ve been reduced to¡­ cleaning up after people who I wouldn¡¯t have let touch my weapons. This is more embarrassment than I can handle! Take me back to my temple and let me rot in peace!¡±

    Behind pressed lips, Bian tries to calm the spirit. ¡°Look, I don¡¯t like it either, but it¡¯s all the work we can get. Not a lot of need for warriors in these parts. Not with you and the Coalition pushing back the Quis and placing guards around even the smaller villages.¡±

    ¡°Then we should become bandits! Anything would be better than smiling at these drunkards!¡± Ha Linh continues to air her grievances.

    Suddenly, interrupting her complaints, a noise erupts on the far side of the inn.

    ¡°Excuse me, coming through! Careful, don¡¯t want to knock anything over!¡± A man in his early twenties, tall and lean, dressed in simple red and yellow commoners¡¯ robes, rushes into the inn. His eyes are bright, his hair a golden yellow, but he is clearly out of breath.

    He takes a seat next to Bian, trying to gather himself.

    Bian greets him with a smile. ¡°Buddy, are you okay?¡±

    The man, still sporadically looking around, says, ¡°Yeah, yeah, I¡¯m fine. Umm, how about something to eat?¡±

    ¡°Absolutely. The special¡ªI think¡ªis century egg congee. But if you¡¯ve got money, we¡¯ve got grilled boar¡¯s meat on rice¡­¡± She takes a look at the disheveled man. ¡°Maybe just the congee.¡±

    She leaves for the kitchen, but can¡¯t help but glance back curiously¡­

    Ha Linh¡¯s voice pierces through Bian¡¯s mind. ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    Caught off guard, Bian tries to play it off. ¡°What do you mean? I¡¯m just grabbing food.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m in your mind. I can literally hear your thoughts and feel your heart¡­¡±

    ¡°Well, you¡¯re wrong. It¡¯s nothing.¡±

    Ha Linh sighs, exasperated. ¡°Whatever. Just some advice. Don¡¯t fall in love. It¡¯s unbecoming of a warrior.¡±

    ¡°Order up!¡± the chef calls out. Bian, grateful for the distraction, quickly grabs the food.

    When she returns with a fresh bowl of hot congee, the man immediately digs in with an enthusiasm that could rival a hungry wolf.

    As he takes the last bite, he lets out a sigh of relief. ¡°One more!¡± The man calls out.

    Bian quickly returns with another bowl. ¡°One more!¡± He cries out again and Bian quickly brings him another one.

    After what seems to be the ninth or maybe the tenth bowl¨CBian honestly lost count¨Cthe man leans back in his seat and lets out an exasperated sigh. ¡°That was amazing! Best congee this side of the mountains. Thank you!¡±A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    Bian smiles. ¡°You¡¯ve certainly had a lot. I¡¯ll let the chef know you enjoyed it. I¡¯m sure it¡¯ll make his day.¡±

    ¡°Really?¡± The man perks up.

    ¡°No, sorry. I don¡¯t think he cares.¡±

    ¡°Oh¡­¡± He deflates.

    Quickly trying to spare his feelings, ¡°Well, I mean, it¡¯s nice that you cared enough to give a compliment.¡±

    ¡°Oh, thank you¡­ That¡¯s what my grandfather always taught me. My name¡¯s Ngo.¡±

    For the first time, Bian shows an emotion unfamiliar to her¡ªshe¡¯s almost¡­ flustered in front of Ngo. ¡°Oh, umm¡­ My name is Bian.¡±

    They share a smile, and Ngo stares into her eyes.

    Ha Linh interrupts, ¡°What is happening here? Are you serious right now?¡±

    ¡°Shut up,¡± Bian mutters to Ha Linh, almost too loudly.

    The man, thinking she¡¯s talking to him, says, ¡°Oh, sorry. I¡¯ll stop¡­¡±

    Bian scrambles to fix her mistake. ¡°No, not you. You can keep talking.¡±

    ¡°I can?¡± the man says.

    ¡°I will,¡± Ha Linh continues.

    ¡°No, not you. You shut up,¡± Bian says, struggling to correct herself. The man, understandably, remains confused.

    Bian tries to balance talking to Ngo and the spirit in her mind, but just then, the door to the inn bursts open once more. This time, a large man, thick black beard, fully armored, and with metal tonfas at his side, stares daggers around the room. It¡¯s obvious he¡¯s looking for someone. And from the way Ngo immediately tries to hide his face, that someone is him.

    Unfortunately for Ngo, he is spotted even through the crowd. The bearded man pulls out his weapon and aims it directly at Ngo. ¡°That man is the criminal known as Ngo Khon. We have been sent by the magistrate of Cao Ranh to apprehend and bring him back to face judgment for his crimes. Stay out of our way if you do not wish to be branded criminals.¡±

    The crowd splits, leaving a pathway for the bearded man.

    Bian clenches her fists, but before she can step forward, and to her surprise Ngo has somehow sprinted almost fifteen feet across the room and is now inches away from the bearded man.

    Ha Linh is impressed. ¡°He¡¯s fast¡­¡±

    An almost speechless Bian replies, ¡°Yeah¡­¡±

    With a flash¡ªlike lightning in the sky¡ªNgo brandishes gold and silver nunchucks from their hiding place on his back. He whips the chaotic weapons with expert precision and blinding speed, each motion flowing into the next, almost as if he is performing a dance. A flurry of devastating strikes lands in rapid succession, too fast for anyone in the room to follow. In an instant, the bearded man crashes to the ground with a thud that reverberates through the room.

    Ha Linh, despite her initial admiration, gives Bian a warning. ¡°Stay away from him. You¡¯re not ready.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure I am¡­¡± Bian responds, barely listening to her.

    Ngo saunters toward Bian, stylishly collapsing his nunchucks back into their hiding place. ¡°Sorry about that. I didn¡¯t want the guy to hurt you.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he wouldn¡¯t have,¡± Bian says.

    Ngo lets out a confused chuckle, ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°At least you still remember you¡¯re a warrior,¡± Ha Linh adds, still annoyed.

    As the two continue to stare at each other, five more men¡ªsimilar to the one Ngo just took down¡ªburst into the scene.

    ¡°Sorry to cut this short, Bian. Gotta go.¡± Ngo starts making his way toward the exit.

    Bian tries to stop him, ¡°Wait, you gotta pay for your food.¡±

    ¡°What? I don¡¯t have any money¡­ I¡¯ll owe you.¡± He throws her a wink before darting out. The men pick up their ally and proceed after Ngo.

    With the commotion over, the crowd returns to their seats just as Madam Hoa walks up to Bian. ¡°You know his food and damages are coming out of your pay¡­¡±

    Bian immediately snaps out of her love-idled trance. ¡°Wait. What? I won¡¯t have enough money for a room then.¡±

    Madam Hoa gives Bian a wide grin. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m not going to kick you out into the cold. You¡¯ll still have a roof over your head.¡± With her large arms around Bian¡¯s shoulders, Madam Hoa escorts her toward her new living quarters: a bale of hay inside the stables.

    ¡°At least it has three walls and a roof. Have a good night! And we¡¯ll see you bright and early for your shift.¡± Madam Hoa mockingly leaves for the inn.

    ¡°So, how do you feel about your boy now?¡± Ha Linh says, adding fire to the already enraged Bian.

    ¡°Next time I see him, I¡¯m going to drown him in congee¡­ Actually, I¡¯m just going to kill him.¡± Bian seethes.

 Chapter 13

    As days slip by and still no word from the temple, Bian continues to focus on her training at night, but Ha Linh grows restless. More so than usual¡­

    ¡°That¡¯s it! Grab your things. We¡¯re storming the temple!¡± Ha Linh snaps, her voice crackling with frustration.

    Bian, trying to temper Ha Linh¡¯s fiery impatience with her usual calm, says, ¡°Easy now. No need to storm anything. Let¡¯s be smart about this¡ªwe¡¯ll ambush the monks, take them out one by one.¡±

    They spend the rest of the day in silence, carefully plotting how to get back at the monks and ascend the temple steps.

    As the evening settles in, Bian spots Elder Loung, a regular¡ªat least since she started working here¨Cwho always comes in with a stack of scrolls, orders the same barley tea, and doesn¡¯t leave until closing. His long gray beard and wrinkled complexion are softened by a kind smile. Their conversations are always brief, but a nice break in her day.

    Today, as she has done in the past, Bian brings Elder Loung his usual cup of tea, he nods in thanks, his eyes meeting hers with a flicker of recognition.

    ¡°Looks like rain,¡± he rasps, glancing at the gray sky. ¡°Quieter than usual today, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    Bian chuckles softly. ¡°Yeah, I don¡¯t mind though. I like the rain. The quiet makes it easier for you to read, right?¡±

    He smiles gently. ¡°I don¡¯t mind the noise. Sometimes, it¡¯s nice to feel the energy of a crowded inn. Lively, you could say. But I can tune it out whenever I need to¡ªjust focus on my thoughts. A skill I think you¡¯ve mastered.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Bian asks, raising an eyebrow.

    ¡°I don¡¯t mean anything by it. I¡¯ve just noticed that you seem deep in thought sometimes. As if you¡¯re talking to yourself.¡±

    Bian laughs it off. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m just trying to keep the orders straight in my head.¡±

    ¡°You remind me of my granddaughter. She was always thinking more than speaking. You both make excellent listeners.¡±

    ¡°She sounds nice¡­¡±

    ¡°She was,¡± he replies softly, his voice trailing off. ¡°Too kind for this world.¡±

    Bian nods, understanding the weight of his words. She pours him another cup of tea and leaves him to his reading. ¡°Let me know if you want another refill.¡±

    He nodded warmly. Something in the way Elder Loung spoke about his granddaughter reminded Bian of her time at Orchid Academy. Teacher Tian was strict, but never cruel. Passionate in her lessons, but never too demanding. Even when she lectured them, her words held warmth, a care that Bian could still feel. The conversations with Elder Loung stirred an yearning in her heart, a longing for peaceful days...

    As the day winds down, the Elder Loung is the last to leave. Bian begins clearing the tables just as a monk enters the inn. She recognizes him¡ªone of the two she¡¯d first encountered, though she can¡¯t quite remember which one.

    ¡°Our teacher will see you now,¡± the monk says, his tone formal. ¡°But only if you can reach the summit before the hour of the black sun.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s in an hour! How am I supposed to climb 10,000 steps in that time?¡±

    The monk lets out a devious smile, but quickly reins it in. ¡°This will be your first test.¡±

    ***

    Bian barely has time to pack before she''s on the move again. Together, she and Ha Linh begin the long journey up the 10,000 steps, another obstacle on her path to revenge.

    The climb grows steeper, more treacherous, and the air thinner as they ascend. Bian presses on, her legs burning, sweat trickling down her forehead.

    Ha Linh pushes her forward, even as her body begs for rest. ¡°You don¡¯t have the luxury of being tired. Channel my energy with yours and let it fuel your strength.¡±This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.

    Bian takes a deep breath and surges on.

    As they near the final stretch, something catches her eye¡ªa familiar figure sitting on a large stone bench by the path¡¯s edge. It¡¯s Elder Loung, seated as calmly as if he were still sipping tea. Even before speaking, she felt a heaviness in her heart. An all too familiar feeling.

    ¡°You,¡± Bian says, surprise and confusion mixing in her voice. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    Elder Loung doesn¡¯t answer immediately. He stands, dusting off his clothes, his expression more serious than she¡¯s ever seen.

    ¡°They sent me,¡± he says quietly, as if regretful. ¡°I¡¯m an assassin. Sent by very dangerous and powerful people.¡±

    Bian takes a step back. ¡°Sent to kill me?¡±

    He nods, slowly drawing a curved blade from his side. ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°You said I reminded you of your granddaughter¡­¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯d rather it be me than the Tigers¡ª¡± he pauses, grimacing at the mention of their name. ¡°I¡¯m only here to kill you. What they¡¯ll do is far worse.¡±

    Bian tightens her grip on the kiemloung, her eyes fixed on Elder Loung. ¡°I won¡¯t let you kill me,¡± she says firmly.

    He sighs, a trace of sadness in his voice. ¡°Then we¡¯ll do this the hard way.¡±

    The battle unfolds in a whirlwind of chaos¡ªblades clashing, bamboo creaking and splintering under the force of their strikes. Black tendrils twist and whip from Elder Loung¡¯s blade, as if he was controlling the shadows themselves.

    Bian¡¯s strikes are swift, each charged by the raw power of Ha Linh coursing through her veins. Her practice showing their result with every swing. Yet, for all her strength, Loung¡¯s speed is overwhelming. His sword seemingly disappears into the darkness, making them near impossible to block. The tendrils leap towards her, trying to restrain her movements.

    She leaps back, feet skidding on the slick bamboo leaves carpeting the forest floor, but Loung is already there. A series of slashes forces her to parry desperately, her arms burning with effort. His precision is inhuman¡ªevery movement calculated, every strike unyielding. One of his blows slips past her defenses, the blade grazing her ribs with a searing sting. Warm blood trickles down her side, but she braces, refusing to show weakness.

    Gritting her teeth, she pushes forward with a flurry of strikes. Her blade howling through the air, and for a moment, she drives him back. But Loung merely smirks, as if amused by her effort, and shifts his stance. A tentacle whips from below her, knocking Bian off balance. More tendrils lash out from the blackness, each one like fingers clawing towards Bian. She narrowly evades their grasp, her body twisting and rolling frantically across the ground.

    The bamboo forest seems to close in around her. Elder Loung circles her like a predator, the shadows under his control shifting towards her. Bian¡¯s heart pounds, the weight of the moment pressing against her as she struggles to find an opening.

    Another strike. She sidesteps, barely dodging, but the force of the shadows knock her into the rocky wall of the cliff. The sharp edge of stone digs into her back, and she stumbles, gasping for breath. Loung doesn¡¯t relent. In a single, fluid motion, he raises his blade high, the blackness of the metal screaming before striking down.

    For an instant, time seems to stop. The world narrows to the darkness of Loung¡¯s blade descending toward her.

    Ha Linh¡¯s voice cuts through the pain. ¡°I know you don¡¯t want me to take over, but you also don¡¯t want to die.¡±

    Bian¡¯s voice remains firm. ¡°This is my duel. I need to do this.¡±

    Ha Linh understands. She doesn¡¯t push the subject any further. ¡°Then let it be decided with this next strike.¡±

    Their eyes meet, knowing the next exchange will be their last. Bian slowly closes her eyes. He hesitates, watching her cautiously, almost curious to see what she¡¯s able to do.

    After a beat, an aura¡ªfaint but distinct¡ªof cold air and warm heat begins to radiate around her. The opposing elements swirl and dance around Bian until finally merging.

    Bian¡¯s eyes immediately snap open. She tightens her grip on the hilt of her kiemloung, and they dash toward each other. An energy swells within her. Not fire or water, but something else. For a moment¨Calthough brief¨Cshe feels stronger than ever before.

    With a final, decisive blow, Bian disarms him, sending his blade clattering to the ground. Elder Loung stumbles and collapses onto the nearby bench, his breath ragged as blood seeps from a wound in his chest. Yet, there¡¯s a strange peace in his eyes.

    ¡°You... are stronger than I thought,¡± he whispers. ¡°Good. You¡¯ll need to be.¡±

    Bian rushes to him. ¡°It¡¯ll be okay. I can get help.¡±

    He smiles, blood dripping from his mouth. ¡°It¡¯s my time. Thank you.¡±

    ¡°Who sent you? I need to know,¡± Bian pleads.

    ¡°She knows¡­¡± With those final words, he passes in her arms. Bian takes a moment to mourn, but she knows there isn¡¯t much time.

    Despite the ache in her muscles and the sting of her wounds, Bian presses on. She staggers up the last steps, her vision blurring, every part of her body screaming for rest. But she can¡¯t stop¡ªnot now.

    ***

    At the summit, a figure stands shrouded in shadow, large and looming. His voice cuts through the fog of her pain.

    ¡°This is the disciple of the great Ha Linh? How are you supposed to kill me when you can barely stand?¡±

    Bian collapses to the ground, darkness creeping at the edges of her vision, but she can still hear the low chuckle of the man above her, waiting for her final moment to come.

 Chapter 14

    In the heart of the Black Mountains, under a blistering sun, a pair of muddy boots steps into a chaotic encampment. Mismatched tents scatter across the familiar mountainside. This is Black Mountain village¡ªor rather, what it was 100 years ago, when Ha Linh still had a physical body. She surveys the area briefly before moving toward the crowd gathered at the center of the village.

    That¡¯s when she spots him¡­ Towering over everyone, clad in simple, rugged clothing that strains against his massive frame, stands Bo Pham¡ªthe Giant of Black Mountain. A pair of double axes, glinting with obsidian, hang at his sides. He notices her approach, his dark eyes narrowing with suspicion, but he doesn¡¯t move to greet her. Instead, he watches, his stance challenging and unflinching.

    ¡°You Bo Pham?¡± Ha Linh calls out, stopping a few paces away.

    A mercenary nearby steps forward, arms crossed. ¡°What¡¯s up, gorgeous? You looking for me?¡±

    Ha Linh ignores the mercenary, her eyes still fixed on Bo. ¡°Just a wanderer, passing through,¡± she replies, her tone firm. ¡°But I hear you¡¯ve been causing trouble for some of the nobles around these parts. Robbing caravans carrying their merchandise. Seems they can¡¯t make a move in these mountains without losing a cartload of goods.¡±

    The mercenary, realizing she is ignoring him, steps between her and Bo. ¡°Whatever business you¡¯ve got with the boss, you can deal with me first.¡± Ha Linh¡¯s eyes narrow with frustration as the mercenary persists. ¡°Hey, I¡¯m talking to you!¡± He grabs her by the shoulders. This is his first mistake. ¡°Got it? Pretty lady?¡± This was his last mistake. In the blink of an eye, she sends his body flying into a nearby tent, her gaze never leaving Bo.

    The mercenary, regaining consciousness, groans and looks around, dazed. ¡°What happened? What hit me?¡± No one answers; all eyes are on the tense scene unfolding in front of them.

    Ha Linh and Bo Pham stare each other down, locked in a battle of wills. The air buzzes with anticipation, the gathering crowd holding their breath.

    In a voice as deep and coarse as stone, Bo finally speaks up. ¡°Who sent you? The nobles?¡±

    ¡°I wish. They don¡¯t pay small fries like me.¡± Ha Linh¡¯s eyes sparkle with mischief. ¡°The name¡¯s Ha Linh, heard talk in town of a giant mercenary leader barreling through a platoon of guards like it was nothing. That you?¡±

    Bo¡¯s mouth curls in a half-smile as he drums his fingers against the hilt of an axe. ¡°Nah, not me. As you can see, I¡¯m a pacifist.¡± He grins.

    ¡°Oh, that I believe,¡± Ha Linh shoots back. She leans forward just enough to catch the flicker of annoyance in Bo¡¯s eyes. ¡°Especially since your little gang doesn¡¯t really kill anyone. Robbing, beating the guards senseless¡ªthat¡¯s your speed. But casualties? Rare. You¡¯re really just a bunch of softies ain¡¯t ya?¡± She pauses, watching for the telltale pulse in his temple. There it was.

    Bo¡¯s smile faltered. His fingers clenched. ¡°Alright, it worked. You pissed me off.¡±This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    Slowly, he pushes himself up from the throne of furs, standing tall, his black beard bristling, hair tied in a warrior¡¯s knot.

    Ha Linh¡¯s smirk widens. ¡°I¡¯m kinda good at that. Funny, I knew this would happen the first time we met.¡±

    ¡°Oh yeah, fortune teller? So what¡¯s next?¡± Bo mocks.

    ¡°Not sure,¡± she says, eyes gleaming as her hand finds her blade, ¡°But it¡¯s gonna be fun.¡±

    The massive Bo charges forward, both axes sweeping in wide, brutal arcs. The intensity of his attack howling towards their target. Ha Linh side steps with ease, her movements precise and swift. Even so, the force of his swing creates a gust that nearly knocks her off balance, sending her hair whipping across her face.

    He¡¯s a mountain of muscle and strength, and she¡¯s the burning fire, fluid and unrelenting. Ha Linh lunges, using her control of fire to propel her forward. Her blade flicks toward his exposed side, but Bo anticipates the move. With a growl, he pivots sharply, his left axe intercepting her strike. The clash of metal against metal echoes like thunder.

    ¡°You can sure move for a big guy.¡± Ha Linh jokes.

    Bo grunts, after taking a hit from Ha Linh. ¡°And you hit like an anvil.¡±

    The mountainside itself becomes their battlefield. The ground trembles as Bo stomps forward, driving his foot into the rock with a resounding boom. Ha Linh leaps back, her feet barely grazing the unstable ground as the chasm echoes beneath her.

    Bo is relentless. He strikes the earth with his axe, and with a scream, he fires jagged chunks of rocks towards her.

    Ha Linh reacts in an instant. She smiles. With a burst, she ignites her blade in crimson fire. A raging fire more ferocious than anything Bo has seen before. A heat so intense it melts the very air around her.

    Bo charges through the haze, swinging wildly at Ha Linh. The ground shudders beneath each strike. Ha Linh channels her focus on dodging, knowing full well that one hit will shatter her entire body. Finally, an opportunity. Bo struggles to keep up the attacks. Ha Linh immediately counters with a blazing roundhouse kick to his ribs.

    ¡°Got you!¡± Ha Linh celebrates.

    Suddenly, Bo slams the ground with his fist. The force sends a boulder directly into Ha Linh, like an uppercut from the earth.

    ¡°That had to hurt.¡± Bo returns.

    The fight continues without break. Bo swings again, his axe carving a deadly arc into the earth, but Ha Linh is quicker. She weaves beneath the attack, the flames surrounding her arms growing brighter, hotter, as she strikes at his flank. He roars as he retaliates with a heavy backhand that just clips her.

    Their breaths grow ragged as the fight stretches on. An hour turns into two, and exhaustion begins to weigh. The camp around them is unrecognizable¡ªtents shredded and smoldering, supplies scattered and burning. The remaining mercenaries watch from the safety of the cliffs, too terrified to intervene.

    Bo plants his feet with a determined growl, drawing on every ounce of his monstrous strength. He grips his axes tighter, his knuckles whitening, and then with a deafening roar, he swings both weapons in a downward strike aimed to cleave Ha Linh in two. The force of the attack leaves a massive crater in the mountainside, familiar and devastating.

    ¡°Show off¡­¡± Ha Linh rolls her eyes.

    Exhaustion begins to hit harder than their attacks. When Bo finally drops his axes, Ha Linh follows suit, her sword clattering to the ground. They stumble toward each other, too tired to care, resorting to fists, more out of defiance than any real hope of victory.

    Eventually, Ha Linh pauses, breathing heavily, and reaches into her satchel¡­ Bo braces for the next attack. Instead, she pulls out a flask, uncaps it, and holds it out to Bo. He eyes her suspiciously, but exhaustion wins out. Grunting, he takes the flask and drinks.

 Chapter 15

    Fast forward a couple of minutes and the mood is drastically different. The fires have cooled, the tents are being fixed up, with Bo and Ha Linh now sharing drinks.

    ¡°You got a lot of fight in you¡­ Sorry, Ha Linh.¡± Bo says, handing the flask back to her.

    ¡°And you¡¯re not half bad yourself, for a brute,¡± she replies with a grin. Ha Linh takes a swig and leans against a nearby rock. ¡°I¡¯ve been watching you and your group for a while. You¡¯ve got a good heart under all that bluster. You steal from the nobles, but give more to the needy than you keep...¡±

    Bo shrugs, staring off at the horizon. ¡°Those nobles have been bleeding the people dry for years. Took our homes, left us to fend for ourselves when bandits came, when the Quis came. We fight because no one else will.¡±

    Ha Linh nods, her body slinking even further to the ground. Now, staring up at the stars. ¡°I know the feeling. I was just a kid when monsters came for my family. My parents held them off long enough for me to escape. I survived, but I never forgot what happened. Now, I¡¯m using what they taught me to make sure others can protect themselves. Magic, technology¡ªthey don¡¯t have to be tools of fear. They can be tools of strength.¡±

    Bo grunts, unimpressed. ¡°A lot of people with power say things like that. But they don¡¯t mean it.¡±

    ¡°I do,¡± she insists, her voice unwavering. ¡°Join me, and I¡¯ll prove it to you.¡±

    Bo leans back, folding his arms. ¡°Who¡¯s to say that when you rise in power, you won¡¯t forget about the little folks. That¡¯s who I fight for.¡±

    Ha Linh¡¯s gaze doesn¡¯t falter. ¡°Because I know what it¡¯s like to be small. To be weak. I¡¯m not interested in ruling people¡ªI want to give them the means to stand on their own.¡±

    Before Bo can respond, a breathless young man stumbles into the clearing. ¡°Boss! The village of Phan Tho to the north¡ªit¡¯s under attack!¡±

    Bo is on his feet in an instant, grabbing his axes. ¡°Dammit. Must be the Quis!¡±

    Ha Linh follows, her exhaustion forgotten. Together, they lead Bo¡¯s crew toward the village, where flames are already licking at rooftops. But it¡¯s not the Quis that greet them¡ªguards from a nearby noble family are herding villagers into the square, shouting accusations of theft.Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.

    ¡°Stand down!¡± Ha Linh calls, stepping forward.

    One of the soldiers scoffs. ¡°And who are you to command the guards of Diplomat Guan?¡±

    Her voice hardens. ¡°Leave these people alone.¡±

    The soldier sneers and motions for his men to attack. The village erupts into panic.

    ¡°Anyone that chooses to stand in my way, won¡¯t stand for long.¡± Ha Linh¡¯s flames roar to life, forming a protective barrier between the villagers and the advancing soldiers. Bo charges into the fray, his fists forcing through the soldiers¡¯ defenses with brutal efficiency. Villagers scatter, ducking into alleyways as Bo¡¯s men help guide them to safety.

    Just as they start to gain control, a chittering sound fills the air. The unmistakable, chilling presence of Quis. The yellow-eyed creatures clawing towards them, drawn to the magic and screams. The guards, abandoning all sense of valor, turn and flee. One of them accidentally sets a house ablaze in his haste.

    Ha Linh curses under her breath and rushes into the burning house, ignoring the smoke and flames as she searches for any signs of life. She finds a little girl huddled in the corner, coughing and terrified. Ha Linh looks around for a viable means of escape. The fires have taken over.

    ¡°Hey! We¡¯re over here!¡± She calls out. The fires continue inching towards her. Ha Linh tries to control the flames, but she¡¯s too weak right now.

    Outside, Bo stands his ground against the Quis, the earth erupting around him as he channels his energy to push back the creatures. Suddenly, Ha Linh¡¯s cries pierce the chaos. He seizes a Qui and growls, ¡°Brace yourself!¡± With every ounce of strength, he slams the creature against the wall of the building where Ha Linh is trapped. The wall collapses around them.

    Ha Linh emerges from the rubble, holding onto the little girl. ¡°Get out of here.¡± The girl flees to safety.

    Back to the Quis. ¡°Alright, now I¡¯m pissed.¡± Ha Linh joins up with Bo. Their powers now work in tandem, destroying the Quis in their wake.

    As the last of the flames are put out and the villagers re-emerge, Bo watches Ha Linh with newfound respect as she offers to help rebuild the village. ¡°Maybe you¡¯re different,¡± he admits begrudgingly. ¡°Alright! If we¡¯re doing this then I have some demands. I won¡¯t just be a pawn.¡±

    Ha Linh raises an eyebrow. ¡°Why would you be? You¡¯ll be an ally.¡±

    He considers her words, then nods. ¡°As I said, I have demands. First, you make sure your ¡®new world¡¯ doesn¡¯t forget people like them. And if anyone threatens the small folk, you¡¯ll¡­¡±

    ¡°Threaten them back. Don¡¯t worry.¡± She grins.

    Ha Linh extends her hand, ¡°We¡¯re going to have some fun you and I.¡± Sealing the pact with a firm shake. Bo nods. ¡°Agreed.¡±

    ***

    Back to the present day, Ha Linh calls out to a nearly unconscious Bian, ¡°Hey! Hey! Wake up! Don¡¯t let this big headed brute take you out! Get up!¡±

 Chapter 16

    Bian winches at her injuries as she struggles against the stone wall to get herself up, every muscle in her body screaming for her to fall. The battle with Elder Loung has drained her; every shallow breath sends a pulsating wave of pain through her ribs. Despite the pain, she refuses to yield. She has been knocked down too many times to count, but she will not go down quietly¡ªnot anymore.

    She scans the temple grounds, her hand in a fist, ready for the fight. The surrounding monks stand stoic, their eyes moving between Bian and Bo Pham, waiting for his signal. Bo remains still, seated on his throne. His hand strokes his graying beard, a faint smirk at the corner of his lips. Just like when they first met years ago, his gaze following her every movement¡­

    Ha Linh¡¯s voice resonates in Bian¡¯s mind, calm yet filled with tension. ¡°Hold your ground, Bian. He¡¯s not someone we can take lightly¡­ Let him make the first move and we¡¯ll surprise him with a counter.¡±

    ¡°I hope he does it soon¡­ I¡¯m doing everything I can to not vomit blood.¡± Bian whispers.

    ¡°Ha Linh,¡± he says. ¡°Exactly like you were 100 years ago when we first met.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, and just like then, I¡¯m going to kick your ass.¡± She retorts.

    He lets out a booming laugh. ¡°Is that what happened last time? I remember you being too tired and begging me to stop fighting.¡±

    ¡°Then your memory is worse than you look, old man. Come one! What are we waiting for? Let¡¯s do this.¡± Bian and Ha Linh call out, using their rage to hide her pain.

    Bo¡¯s lips curl into a faint, knowing smile. ¡°You are stronger than you look, child, but strength alone won¡¯t carry you to the end.¡±

    He gestures toward the temple, his monks parting to make way. ¡°Come with me, you need to know the truth.¡±

    Ha Linh gives Bian a warning, ¡°Don¡¯t follow, fighting him in a small space is a bad idea. We need room to move around.¡±

    Bo notices their hesitation, ¡°I have warm wine waiting for us¡­¡±

    ¡°Okay, maybe we can take the risk.¡± Ha Linh immediately takes the bait.

    ***

    Inside, the air is thick with the scent of burning incense and the faint hum of chanting. The temple is modest, its wooden beams worn smooth by time, yet it radiates a quiet serenity. Bian tries to maintain her composure, but her exhaustion proves to be too much and she collapses onto a woven mat, grateful for even a moment¡¯s rest.

    Bo pours warm wine into two cups and continues his story.

    ¡°It was during the Coalition¡¯s final meeting, before our last stand against the Quis.¡±

    Bian drinks the wine. A satisfying moment, but her eyes are still locked on Bo.

    ¡°Thanh Rong¡ªthe Dragon¡¯s Rage¡ªcalled the meeting,¡± Bo continues. ¡°He spoke of unity, of a grand legacy that would bind the continent together. But his vision required more than victory. It needed a sacrifice¡ªa symbol that would cement the Coalition¡¯s power for generations to come. And what better sacrifice than Ha Linh herself?¡±

    Ha Linh¡¯s presence grows in her mind, a hot, seething anger bubbling to the surface.

    ¡°He believed that her death would be the ultimate act of heroism,¡± Bo says. ¡°With her gone, the Coalition, or rather he could rule without oversight. Everyone across the continent would owe their allegiance to them.¡±

    Bian¡¯s voice cuts through the silence like a blade. ¡°And the others? They agreed to this madness?¡±

    Bo nods slowly, his face disappearing into the shadows cast by lights from the lantern. ¡°I argued. I fought. But Thanh Rong had already begun to harness Chaos. He was too powerful, and the others¡­ They were too afraid. Their loyalty to Ha Linh meant nothing in the face of their fear and greed.¡±

    He looks down at his hands, trembling once more while recalling the event. ¡°I tried to stop them. I fought until I could no longer stand. Thanh Rong left me for dead.¡±

    Bian leans forward, her voice low. ¡°How did you survive?¡±Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

    Bo hesitates, his eyes distant. ¡°I did what Ha Linh warned us to never do. I tapped into Chaos¡ªjust enough to save myself and mend my wounds. Even the slightest amount nearly consumed me, but I clung to what was left of my humanity. When I recovered, I went to find her, to warn her.¡± His voice stiffens. ¡°But I was too late. The battle was over, and Ha Linh was gone.¡±

    The room falls into a heavy silence. Ha Linh remains quiet in Bian¡¯s mind, her emotions tightly controlled, but Bian feels the weight of her fury.

    Bo¡¯s voice softens. ¡°I knew they would finish me if I showed my face again. So, I fled. I came back here, to the mountain where Ha Linh and I first met. I hid myself in shame, but I knew I couldn¡¯t just let her legacy die. I began gathering those who had nowhere else to go¡ªwanderers, the broken, the lost. I taught them what I could, helped them rebuild their lives. It¡¯s not enough to redeem myself, but it¡¯s something.¡±

    Suddenly, Ha Linh¡¯s voice cuts through, sharp and bitter. ¡°You should have killed them! Or died trying.¡± Bian clamps her hands over her mouth, horrified. ¡°I¡¯m sorry! That wasn¡¯t me. I mean, it was, but¡ª¡± She falters. ¡°That was Ha Linh.¡±

    Bo matches her gaze, but quickly turns away. ¡°It¡¯s okay¡­ I know. Ha Linh would have fought.¡±

    Pick your head up,¡± Ha Linh says, her tone softening. ¡°You¡¯re ruining the taste of this wine with that miserable face.¡±

    Bo lets a small smile break through, the weight of her words both a comfort and a sting. He knows this is as close to forgiveness as Ha Linh will offer.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t think I¡¯d meet you again,¡± Bo admits. ¡°I didn¡¯t think I¡¯d see anyone else from those days.¡±

    Bian and Ha Linh exchange a glance. ¡°Anyone else?¡± Bian presses. ¡°That¡¯s actually why we came to find you first¡­ Did the Vipress come to see you?¡±

    Bo freezes. ¡°Yeah, she did¡ªbut not for long. It seemed like she was running something. Or someone.¡±

    Bian¡¯s expression darkens. ¡°She was my teacher at the Orchid Academy. She¡¯s the one who killed my sisters¡ªand almost killed me at the temple of Ha Linh. We¡¯re trying to find her and get some answers. Did she mention where she was heading?¡±

    Bo shakes his head. ¡°Sorry. She didn¡¯t say.¡±

    Bian let out a slow breath. ¡°I figured it wouldn¡¯t be easy tracking her down¡­¡± A silence settled over the group. After a moment, the monks bring out some food.

    The three share a simple meal, the conversation turning to memories of Ha Linh¡¯s past. For the first time in days, Bian feels a flicker of peace, a momentary reprieve from the vengeance and training driving her forward.

    As the night deepens, Bo¡¯s tone grows serious. ¡°What will you do now?¡±

    ¡°Revenge,¡± Bian and Ha Linh say with single focus.

    Bo nods slowly. ¡°Your bond is strong, but it is incomplete. There is something holding you back.¡±

    Bian looks away, her frustration bubbling to the surface. ¡°We know. It¡¯s like¡­ there¡¯s a wall between us. I¡¯m trying to connect with her energy, but we¡¯re fighting each other as much as we¡¯re fighting the enemies.¡±

    Bo strokes his beard in thought. ¡°There is a place deep within this mountain¡ªthe Cave of Souls. For centuries, warriors have gone there to confront their inner truths, to test their spirits. It may help you break the barriers within your mind.¡±

    Bian narrows her eyes. ¡°What¡¯s the catch?¡±

    ¡°The trial is not without risk,¡± Bo warns. ¡°Many who enter do not return. And those who do often come out¡­ changed. Severed from the natural world, their abilities lost. Your spirits are strong, but two souls have never entered the cave before?¡± He shakes his head.

    Bian waits for Ha Linh. ¡°You¡¯re unusually quiet¡­¡±

    ¡°What choice do we have?¡± Ha Linh replies. ¡°If we don¡¯t conquer our limitations, then we are destined to fail.¡±

    ¡°Take your time. It¡¯s not a decision you should make lightly.¡± Bo guides them to a modest room where they can rest.

    The temple is quiet, the flickering lanterns casting long shadows on the walls. Bian lies awake, her body still aching from the day¡¯s battles. Ha Linh¡¯s quiet, her presence radiates throughout.

    But something feels off.

    ¡°Do you hear that?¡± Bian whispers aloud, her voice barely audible.

    Ha Linh¡¯s tone sharpens. ¡°Get up.¡±

    Bian is on her feet in an instant. She moves to the window, peering into the courtyard below. Shadows shift unnaturally in the moonlight, their movements fluid and deliberate.

    Bian, unable to make out the movement. ¡°I can¡¯t see what¡¯s going on out there. We better tell Bo and the monks.¡±

    ***

    Deep in the forest, the monks stand in tight formation, weapons gleaming under the moonlight as they anticipate each attack. With a fluid, synchronized motion, they strike in unison, their weapons striking deadly precision. Each monk moves like part of a whole, harmonious force, fending off the shadowy figures. But the assassins are quick¡ªblurring into the darkness, slipping past their defenses with tiger-like speed, like predators encircling their prey.

    One by one, the monks fall, their blood staining the bamboo with dark, crimson marks. The assassins remain relentless, their movements impossibly fast, weaving in and out of the bamboo forest. The last monk stands alone, his breath ragged and desperate. Surrounded, he raises his weapon in a final stance, but the attackers are already closing in.

    The figures emerge from the trees, and though their pitch-black clothing conceals their forms, the moonlight strikes them just right, revealing their distinct masks striped in yellow and black.

    ¡°Tiger Claws¡­¡± The monk whispers.

    The leader steps forward, ¡°You know us, then you know what we are capable of. Allow yourself some mercy and tell us what we want to know. Where is the girl? Where is Bian Ong Ma?¡±

 Chapter 17

    The mouth of the Cave of Souls sits deep within the mountain pass, shrouded in shadow and cut off from the outside world. Bian and Ha Linh stand at the threshold, staring into the yawning abyss, its darkness seeming to pulse with quiet malice.

    ¡°This is our only chance,¡± Ha Linh says, her voice cutting through the silence..

    ¡°I know.¡± Bian swallows hard. ¡°But¡­ what if we can¡¯t leave?¡±

    Ha Linh smirks faintly. ¡°Then we¡¯ll die there. This path isn¡¯t for the weak, Bian. You knew that when you chose it.¡±

    Bian doesn¡¯t respond immediately. She knows Ha Linh is right. If they can¡¯t overcome this trial, she might as well have died back at the temple.

    She nods. ¡°Let¡¯s do it.¡±

    Together, they step forward, into the darkness.

    ***

    The world around them changes the moment they step foot inside the cave. The sunlight vanishes entirely, consumed by complete nothingness. The air feels heavy, the silence thick and oppressive.

    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t I be hearing my footsteps?¡± Bian murmurs aloud, her voice small and swallowed by the silence. ¡°Wait¡­ did I say that, or just think it?¡±

    ¡°Ha Linh?¡± she calls, her voice trembling. There¡¯s no response.

    Panic stirs, clawing at the edges of her mind. She stretches her arms out, seeking the walls, the floor¡ªanything¡ªbut nothing. Just the emptiness surrounding her from every direction. Her breathing quickens.

    Alone, her memories surge within¡ªthe night spent trembling in the ruins of the temple, her body cold and broken. Mai Ly dying in her arms, knowing that she will soon be utterly alone.

    ¡°Ha Linh?¡± she calls again, louder this time. Still nothing.

    Bian takes a step, and then another. Her hands shake, her body fighting the instinct to retreat. The floor beneath her feet feels solid yet unreal, as if it exists only because she believes it¡¯s there. What if she stops believing? Will she fall into an eternal abyss?

    She loses track of time. Minutes, hours¡ªdays? The darkness is endless, and her thoughts start to drift. Memories come flooding in, painful and biting.

    Mai Ly¡¯s warnings to not enter the temple. The laughter of her sisters at the Academy. The horror in their eyes as the Quis descended, and then Tien¡¯s blade cutting them down one by one. She remembers it all.

    ¡°It was my fault,¡± she whispers, her voice cracking under the guilt. ¡°We should have never gone into the temple. I shouldn¡¯t have pushed them. If I didn¡¯t they would have¨C¡± Her mind continues to race, her breathing intensifies. Suddenly, right before falling over the edge, Bian hears a sound deeper in the silence: the soft, pitiful sobs of a child.

    Bian freezes. ¡°Hello?¡±

    She moves toward the sound, the blackness around them shifts into shapes¨Ctrees, tall and crooked-. A forest, dark and prickly. Further beyond the trees she sees her: a little girl crouched beneath a tree, her face buried in her arms as she cries. Her small frame trembles, her shoulders shaking with each anguished sob.

    ¡°Hey¡­¡± Bian kneels cautiously, her voice soft. ¡°Are you okay?¡±

    The girl doesn¡¯t answer, her sobs growing louder, painful.

    Bian reaches out, but a searing heat bursts from the child¡¯s small frame, pushing her back.

    ¡°Ouch!¡± She recoils, clutching her hand. ¡°I just want to help¡ªare you hurt?¡±

    The girl¡¯s sobbing stops abruptly. Slowly, she lifts her head, her eyes glowing red.

    ¡°Do I seem okay to you?¡± the girl bites. ¡°They took everything from me¡ªmy family, my home. I want them all to burn!¡±

    ¡°This is me,¡± Ha Linh¡¯s voice cuts through the darkness. ¡°The night everything changed.¡±

    Bian turns to her, confusion across her face. ¡°Is this the night your family were attacked by the Quis?¡±

    ¡°They didn¡¯t.¡± Ha Linh interrupts, her gaze fixed on the child. ¡°What I¡¯m about to tell you¡­ I¡¯ve never told anyone before.¡± Her voice wavers. ¡°It wasn¡¯t the Quis who killed my family.¡±Stolen novel; please report.

    The forest around them begins to shift, shadows warping into shapes. Angry voices rise, distant at first, then closer¡ªshouts filled with hatred and fear.

    ¡°It was them.¡± Ha Linh¡¯s recalling the event, and old wound resurfacing. ¡°The villagers. They called us abominations. Monsters of chaos.¡±

    Bian stares in disbelief as the scene unfolds before her eyes. She recognizes it from her dreams¡ªbut now it¡¯s clearer, the truth.

    A mob storms a small house at the edge of the forest, torches lighting up the night. Inside the house, a man and woman stand firm, their bodies braced against the door. The man clutches a sword in the defense, but is cut down by the mob. A woman, standing between them and a door leading towards the forest, begging for her life. The scene shifts back into emptiness, the girl gone.

    ¡°They died so that I could live, but I lived everyday wishing I had died with them.¡±

    Bian¡¯s heart sinks, and tears stream down her face. ¡°Ha Linh¡­ I¡¯m so sorry.¡±

    Ha Linh turns to her, her gaze cold. ¡°Don¡¯t be. I survived. And I swore I¡¯d never run away again.¡± Her voice stiffens, but there''s something more. ¡°But that¡¯s not the end of the story.¡±

    Bian asks hesitantly. ¡°What happened next?¡±

    Ha Linh takes a breath. ¡°Years after I left the village, I began to practice. Using everything my mother taught me, I honed my skills. Training as if my life depended on it.¡±

    ¡°Like how we¡¯ve been training,¡± Bian comments quietly.

    Ha Linh nods. ¡°Once I was ready, I went back. I didn¡¯t know what I¡¯d find¡­ just that I had to.¡±

    The darkness morphs once more, a small village.

    ¡°The villagers were gathering once more,¡± Ha Linh continues. ¡°Torches, weapons, eyes filled with hate. Just like that night. This time, they were after the village leader¡¯s granddaughter¡ªthe same man who had led the charge against my family.¡± Ha Linh scoffs. ¡°He was pleading for their lives now, after everything he did to mine.¡±

    Bian remains silent, her heart heavy as the scene unfolds.

    Ha Linh¡¯s gaze grows heavy. ¡°I could have let them take her. Let them do to him what they did to my parents. But when I saw that same look on their faces¡ªexactly like before¡ªI felt something inside me explode. And in that instant, I got my revenge.¡±

    The fires settle as smoke rises into the air. Ha Linh approaches the old man. His face was pale, his hands shaking.

    ¡°It¡¯s... it¡¯s you?¡± His voice cracks as he stares at her in disbelief. ¡°How is this possible? We thought you¡¯d died in the forest.¡±

    Ha Linh said nothing, she just stood there, staring.

    The village leader turned to his daughter and granddaughter. ¡°Go inside, gather your things. We¡¯re leaving immediately.¡± The girls disappeared into the house, and the old man came closer, his steps trembling. ¡°I can¡¯t believe it... How did you survive all this time?¡±

    Ha Linh¡¯s eyes never left him.

    Trying to fill the silence, he continued. ¡°You know, after that night, I always wanted to go out and search for you. I always regretted what happened to you¡­ and your parents. To think you would return and save our lives... How can I ever thank you?¡±

    Ha Linh¡¯s response was sharp. ¡°Them...¡± She nodded toward the girls. ¡°I saved them.¡±

    She stood motionless. ¡°Not you.¡±

    The man¡¯s face drops. He falls to his knees, his hands clasped together in desperation. ¡°Please... I¡¯m sorry for what I did before. But please, find mercy in your heart to spare my life.¡±

    Ha Linh stares down at him, eyes cold as ice. ¡°Whatever mercy I had¡­ died with my parents.¡±

    In a flash, the old man falls to the ground, his life extinguished in an instant. The shadows around them darkened once more.

    ¡°How did you feel after?¡± Bian asks.

    Ha Linh¡¯s expression tightens for a moment as she recalls the memory. ¡°At first, I felt relieved. It was all I thought I wanted. But that relief was fleeting. What came after¡­ was a wave of emptiness. As if everything I had been living for, everything that kept me going, vanished the instant he fell.¡±

    Bian looks down, guilt pressing down like a mountain. ¡°At least you got revenge for your family. It wasn¡¯t your fault they died.¡± Her voice trembles as she adds. ¡°The Orchids were all I had. And I led them to their deaths.¡±

    The heat around them disappears as Ha Linh¡¯s voice softens. ¡°Good.¡±

    Bian looks up, surprised.

    ¡°You should never forget them,¡± Ha Linh continues. ¡°Carry that guilt with you. Let it remind you why you fight. Let it strengthen your resolve. Revenge isn¡¯t always bad, Bian. Sometimes, it¡¯s the only way we can redeem ourselves.¡±

    Bian stares at her, taking a moment to absorb the words.

    ¡°I told you my story as a warning. The path that you have chosen will not be easy. It is one filled with bloodshed and heartbreak. You will be tested and broken time and again, but you must continue forward. This isn¡¯t about justice¡ªthis is revenge in its purest form. There will be no happy ending. No peace, no closure. Are you ready to walk this path?¡±.

    Bian takes a moment. Just how far is she willing to go for revenge?

    ***

    Outside the Cave, the temple stirs with chaos. Bo Pham and the monks gather their weapons, preparing to defend their sanctuary. The Tiger Claw assassins are at their doorstep.

    Bo Pham stands at the temple¡¯s edge, axes in hand, eyes locked on the treeline where the enemies lie in wait. His voice is teeming with authority. ¡°No one passes us. Understood?¡±

    ¡°Yes, sir!¡± The monks roar in unison.

    ***

    Back in the depths of the Cave, Bian¡¯s eyes snap open. Her breathing steadies, her mind clear. She can feel it now¡ªa connection, not just spirit and host, but one soul.

    ¡°Are you ready?¡± Ha Linh asks, her voice expectant.

    Bian nods, jumping to her feet. Without warning, a flame erupts from her, a brilliant blue that destroys the surrounding darkness. Unlike Ha Linh¡¯s fierce red flames, this one is cool, almost serene. It¡¯s their fire. In one voice, ¡°Let¡¯s do this.¡±

 Chapter 18

    The sound of clashing steel and crackling electricity reverberates through the night air, heavy with the scent of blood. Bo Pham and his monks hold their ground against the relentless assault of the Tiger Claw assassins.

    Da Vu, their leader, is a blur of motion, her lightning-clad weapons shimmering with every strike. Her attacks against Bo are relentless in speed, but Bo stands strong. Each blow he lands sends shockwaves through the ground, but Da Vu is faster, darting between the jagged fractures of stone with ease.

    Bo slams the blunt side of his axe into the ground, shattering the earth in a desperate attempt to unbalance her. The courtyard trembles, sending cracks outward in a chaotic pattern. Dust and debris fill the air. Yet Da Vu merely smirks, her body charged with electricity as she leaps through the chaos with effortless grace.

    Bo narrows his eyes. ¡°Quang and Thu must really be desperate for the girl to send you, Da Vu. Or were the other assassins too busy kidnapping the children of the Coalition¡¯s enemies?¡±

    Da Vu deflects his taunt with a laugh, her voice crackling like the storm she commands. ¡°I¡¯ve always wondered why the Coalition let you and your monks live for this long. When I heard about this mission, I jumped at the chance to change that.¡± She darts forward, her claws flashing. ¡°Originally, they just wanted the girl. But I thought, why not take down the old bull while I¡¯m at it?¡±

    Like her strikes, Da Vu¡¯s words cut deep. Bo grips his axe even tighter, trying to bring out a little more strength, but his breathing becomes heavy. Every swing feels slower, weaker. He knows she¡¯s playing with him, waiting for an opening to finish him.

    Lightning arcs across the battlefield as Da Vu lunges, her claws blazing a deadly streak aimed at his throat. Bo swings his axe in a desperate arc. The blade meets her claws with a deafening clash, sparks raining like fire. The impact jars his shoulders, pain pierces down his arm. His knees buckle for a heartbeat, just long enough for another assassin to slip through his guard.

    Twin knives cut through his leg, forcing Bo to stagger back. The assassins¡¯ strategy is clear¡ªthey will take down the Giant of Black Mountain, piece by piece...

    Bo grits his teeth. He won¡¯t last at this rate. Unless¡ª

    Chaos. It calls to him like a tempting offer.

    Ha Linh has warned them before against the chaos. He has seen what it did to her former allies in the Coalition. But he has no choice. He can¡¯t let the assassins reach the girls¡­

    He slams the butt of his axe into the ground, a guttural roar ripping from his chest as he calls upon the forbidden power.

    Chaos surges through him like a flood, burning his veins and twisting his body. His muscles swell, his skin darkens to a blackened hue, and his form shifts, growing monstrous and unnatural. Horns sprout from his skull, curling upward like twin peaks.

    In moments, he is transformed¡ªa giant of muscle and rage, his eyes glowing with an otherworldly red. The ground trembles beneath his steps, and his deep, rumbling voice cuts through the battlefield like a drumbeat. ¡°Monks! To me! Tonight is the night we hunt tigers!¡±Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.

    Da Vu pauses, her usual smirk faltering for the first time. ¡°So, there¡¯s some fight left in the old bull after all. I love it when the prey fights back.¡±

    Bo wields his axe with one hand, the weapon now smaller by the massive grip of his new form. With the other hand, he plunges his fingers into the fractured earth, ripping free a jagged slab of stone to serve as a shield. Towering over his foes, he stomps forward, charging at his foe with monstrous wrath.

    The assassins hesitate for only a moment, overwhelmed by Bo¡¯s new form. His shield crashes into a group of them, scattering their bodies like rain against the mountain. His axe arcs through the air, cleaving through Tiger Claws and tearing through their ranks with savage ferocity.

    However, the battle is far from over. Bo¡¯s roar echoes across the courtyard, breathing new vigor into the monks, but across the way, Da Vu stands confidently, her smirk returns.

    After regrouping, the Tiger Claws continue their attack. An assassin lunges towards him, but Bo swats them aside with a single swipe of his massive arm. His great axe cuts through the air with a terrifying speed. He strikes again, the blade cleaving through once more, sending another body sprawling across the stone courtyard. His eyes glow with the same fury that has consumed his form.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t felt this good in years! Ha Linh was right to fear this power. It is addicting! All of you, come at me. See what your frail bodies can do against the might of a mountain!¡± The Giant boasts.

    The monks, too, are in motion, their weapons raised in defense as they try to hold back any assassins that slip past Bo¡¯s defenses. They are quick, their movements precise, but they are outnumbered, and their strength is not limitless. Bo can see them faltering, their efforts growing more frantic as the assassins keep coming.

    A movement catches his eye. Two assassins slip past him, weaving through the chaos, heading straight for the cave where Bian stands. Bo roars, charging after them. He stomps his hooves against the ground, sending shockwaves rippling through the earth. A jagged pillar of stone erupts beneath an assassin, crushing them instantly in a violent spray of stone. But even as the dust settles, more assassins slip through the chaos, their movements too swift for him to intercept.

    Before Bo can give chase, a blinding flash of lightning streaks across his vision, forcing him to a halt. Da Vu stands before him, blocking the path to the cave. Her smirk is evident, her stance relaxed, crackling arcs of electricity dancing along her lightning claws. She¡¯s ready to strike.

    ¡°Did transforming replace your brain with a chunk of muscle too?¡± she mocks. ¡°Our fight isn¡¯t over yet, old man.¡±

    ***

    Three assassins arrive at the entrance, where two monks stand guard. One of them gestures to the others. ¡°Boss wants the girl alive. Kill the monks, then we¡¯ll ambush her when she comes out.¡±

    A voice echoes from within the cave. ¡°When who comes out?¡±

    Bian steps into view, her silhouette highlighted by cerulean light. Her eyes glow like embers, and with a crackle, blue fire erupts around her. The flames dance and twist, filling the air with blistering heat.

    The assassins falter, but hesitation is a luxury Bian doesn¡¯t allow. She surges forward, the flames propelling her like a comet.

    Her first strike lands with devastating force, her fist crashing into the nearest assassin¡¯s sternum. He crumples, her fist leaving a scorch mark on his armor. The other two jump into action, daggers in their hands.

    Bian spins around to summon a wall of azure fire between her and one assassin, burning him and forcing him back in screams. The second rushes in, but she meets him head-on with a powerful kick to his chest that sends him to the ground.

    Only one remains, frantically patting the fire from his clothes. Even before he makes a move, Bian pivots and delivers a flaming roundhouse kick that strikes him squarely in the side. The impact sends him hurtling into the stone wall with a sickening thud.

    ¡°Well, that was a decent warm-up,¡± Ha Linh quipped.

    Bian smirked, brushing ash off her sleeve. ¡°Didn¡¯t even break a sweat. Ready for a real fight.¡±

    ¡°Careful,¡± Ha Linh said with a sly grin. ¡°You¡¯re starting to sound cocky, arrogant. I like it¡ªfinally rubbing off on you.¡±

 Chapter 19 (End of Book 2)

    The battle outside still rages. Bo fights on, ferocious as ever, but his body shows signs of weariness. Chaos gave him new found vigor, but the years have taken too much. His strength is fading. The Tiger Claws are relentless.

    They press him from all sides, but he¡¯s a mountain of power now, fueled by the chaotic magic coursing through him. An assassin falls, their body crumpling beneath the weight of his blows. Another lunges, aiming for his throat, but he headbutts them straight down to the ground. The Tiger Claws grow cautious but there is one who has not been so easily deterred.

    Da Vu, the Night¡¯s Rain, stands at the edge of the melee, her cold eyes locked on Bo, waiting for an opportunity to strike. The moment she moves, the air thickens with static. Her speed is unnerving¡ªshe¡¯s a blur, body crackling with the speed of electricity as she dashes towards Bo¨Cdodging his strikes with inhuman speed.

    ¡°Damn it! Am I getting slower?¡± He asked himself.

    Da Vu responds, as if reading his mind. ¡°You¡¯re probably thinking if you¡¯re getting slower. Don¡¯t worry, old man, you are. But I¡¯m also faster. And I¡¯m only warming up.¡±

    She dances around him like a tornado, her claws flashing with sparks of electricity in the night. Bo swings again, his axe cutting through just an afterimage. Da Vu is too fast. The air buzzes as she strikes, her attacks coming in rapid, disorienting, and deadly bursts. Bo¡¯s massive form is moving slower now, his muscles groaning under the attacks. His breathing labored. Age and exhaustion are taking their toll.

    ¡°Today is the day we¡¯ll witness how lightning destroys a mountain.¡± Da Vu taunts.

    With a crack like thunder, she tears through the battlefield. Her claws, crackling with electric energy, slash at Bo¡ªone aimed for his chest, the other for his throat. He swings his axe to intercept, but her speed overwhelms him. The claws slash into him. Pain shoots through his side as the lightning courses into him, paralyzing him. Just a moment. But a moment could be life or death. Da Vu aims for a killing blow, her claws aim to end him. Then it happens. A scream of blue fire burst through the night air like a Phoenix soaring through the sky. Da Vu is thrown back by a wave of heat and force.

    Bian crashes into the fray like a blue meteor, her body wrapped in a whirlwind of flames.

    ¡°They did it.¡± Bo whispers through the pain, his voice swells with pride.

    Her eyes lock onto Bo, hunched and clutching his side, his pain igniting her fury. With a cry that splits the night, her rage erupts, a fiery pillar surging skyward.

    Through the chaos, Ha Linh¡¯s gaze locks onto Da Vu. ¡°She seems powerful¡­ Let¡¯s crush her.¡±

    Bian smirks, her confidence fierce as a younger¡ªor even present-day¡ªHa Linh. ¡°Let¡¯s see if she can keep up.¡±

    In a blink of an eye, Bian charges into the heart of the Tiger Claws, zero hesitation. Like a flame unleashed. Her gaze is fixed on Da Vu, eyes burning with intensity like a raging inferno of heat and fury. An assassin lunges from behind, but Bian is quicker¡ªshe pivots sharply, unleashing a burst of fire from her palm. The attacker is sent across the square, their body scorched and smoking as they crash to the ground.

    Da Vu narrows her eyes, focusing intently on the approaching Phoenix. Bian¡¯s flames surge forward. And Da Vu charges to meet it. Their attacks clash in an electrified explosion of fire and lightning. The blast sends each warrior back.

    ¡°So, you did that to Bo Pham?¡± Bian asks, her voice steady.

    Da Vu''s response drips with arrogance. ¡°Honestly? If I wasn¡¯t playing with him, he¡¯d probably be dead by now¡­¡±

    ¡°Oh wow... She¡¯s vicious. I kinda love that.¡± Ha Linh whispers to Bian, slightly amused.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    Bian smirks. ¡°Normally, I¡¯d tell you to retreat. Say we don¡¯t need to keep fighting. But honestly? I really don¡¯t like you.¡± She raises her fist.

    Da Vu laughs, her voice sharp and mocking. ¡°Maybe I should¡¯ve finished him off quicker. Then you¡¯d be fighting me already instead of talking so much.¡± Her eyes flick to Bian, then narrow as if directing towards Ha Linh. ¡°Or are you both too afraid to act?¡±

    Bian steps back. ¡°She sees you¡­¡±

    ¡°Right.¡± Ha Linh''s voice grows cautious.

    ¡°I thought only powerful ma thuat techs could see you in spirit form.¡± Bian whispers.

    ¡°Right.¡± Ha Linh replies. ¡°Don¡¯t hold back.¡±

    Da Vu steps forward, a grin on her face. ¡°Or does the spirit of Ha Linh not want to fight anymore? From the stories I read, she was always more of a peaceful type, right?¡±

    Ha Linh¡¯s voice cuts through. ¡°Kill her.¡±

    They charge at each other once more, but this time, Da Vu is quicker. Her lightning-fast reflexes allow her to strike first, cutting across Bian¡¯s hand.

    ¡°And here I thought you¡¯d be a decent fight¡­ I hate being disappointed.¡± Da Vu charges again, even faster this time. She lands another cut, clearly toying with Bian. She lets out an exasperated sigh ¡°Okay. I¡¯m bored now. Time to finish this.¡±

    Across the way, Bian stands unmoving. ¡°You got a plan? Should I take over?¡± Ha Linh presses her.

    Bian remains silent, her eyes fixed on Da Vu.

    Faster than ever, Da Vu sprints toward her, lightning streaking across the courtyard, but Bian doesn¡¯t budge. ¡°You¡¯ve gotta make a move,¡± Ha Linh urges.

    Da Vu closes in, her speed unmatched. Just as her claws are about to pierce Bian¡¯s heart, an explosion of blue fire erupts from the stillness. Bian strikes, her fist landing squarely on Da Vu¡¯s chest. The force sends the assassin flying back, her body crashing to the ground. Da Vu grabs her singed chest, blood erupting from her mouth as pain overwhelms her.

    ¡°Retreat!¡± Da Vu snarls, frustrated, but she knows it¡¯s over. The Tiger Claws scatter, beaten and broken, retreating into the shadows of the forest.

    The battle is won. But the price is steep.

    Bo staggers forward, his massive frame trembling as he drops to his knees. The Chaos that had once made him powerful now oozes through him like poison. His body, too old for this transformation, is failing. He looks up at Bian and Ha Linh as they approach, his breaths shallow and ragged.

    ¡°I¡¯m... sorry,¡± Bo¡¯s voice is weak. ¡°I can¡¯t fight anymore.¡±

    Bian kneels beside him. ¡°You¡¯ve fought enough.¡± Ha Linh whispers, her voice breaking for the first time. ¡°You don¡¯t have to carry the guilt anymore.¡±

    Bo manages a tired smile. ¡°You¡¯re strong, Bian. Stronger than I ever was.¡± His gaze drifting toward Ha Linh. ¡°Strong enough to stand by her side.¡±

    ¡°Bo¡ª¡± Ha Linh starts, but Bo Pham¡¯s body goes still, his hand slipping from Bian¡¯s arm as his life fades away.

    Bian and Ha Linh remain in silence, the weight of his death pressing down on them. For a moment, there is no movement, no sound¡ªonly a quiet, mournful wind sweeping through the temple grounds.

    Bian swallows, she knows they must push forward.

    ¡°The Twin Fangs, leader of the Tiger Claws, are responsible for this.¡± Ha Linh murmurs, her voice colder than the evening air. ¡°We will find them. And we kill them.¡±

    Bian¡¯s fists clench, her eyes narrowing with a renewed determination.

    ***

    The following morning, Bian gathers her things¨Calong with supplies from the monk¨Cfor the journey ahead. Together, they leave the temple behind. They don¡¯t speak, but the bond between them is stronger than ever. They¡¯ve both lost so much already and neither will stop until the Twin Fangs are dead. Until the entire Coalition is consumed by blue flames.

    The mountain trail stretches ahead of them, the road jagged, but quiet. Suddenly, a movement in the trees above catches Bian¡¯s attention. Her hand instinctively raises to attack.

    Before Bian can react, a voice¡ªfamiliar, light, almost casual¡ªdrifts from the shadows.

    ¡°Hey again.¡±

    Bian freezes, her heart skipping a beat. From the shadows steps a figure¡ªa man in his early twenties, tall and lean, dressed in simple red and yellow commoners¡¯ robes.

    Bian¡¯s breath catches as she realizes who it is.

    ¡°Ngo Khon.¡± Bian whispers, a slight excitement escapes her voice. ¡°Great¡­ This guy again.¡± Ha Linh doesn¡¯t share the same excitement.

    ¡°What do you want?¡± Bian asks. ¡°Here to dine and dash again?¡±

    Ngo steps forward, rubbing his head sheepishly, hiding an embarrassed smile. ¡°This is going to sound weird, but I¡¯m a descendant of the Monkey Lord and my grandfather killed Ha Linh.¡±

    Fire erupts around Bian.