Xueyan watched everything.
Every movement.
Every decision.
And slowly understanding dawned in his mind.
"…So that's why…"
He muttered under his breath.
He learned that this wasn't just talent.
This was drive.
A burning, relentless drive that pushed Meng Bai forward despite the gap in strength.
It was familiar, because Xueyan had it too. But for the Spatial Dao. Even when his master locked him away for so many years, he never complained.
Because he wanted to grow.
And now, seeing Meng Bai… He understood.
"This is why he's Ancestral Master's disciple," Xueyan whispered.
By the time the second halt came, Xueyan could no longer stay on the sidelines.
They had stopped near a dense forest clearing, the air rich with immortal Qi. Shrubby rested nearby, half-asleep, while the others prepared once more.
This time though, Xueyan stepped forward.
"…May I join?"
Lin Mu glanced at him briefly.
Then nodded.
"Go ahead."
Xueyan's tail swayed slightly.
"Yes!"
