"We need people who can be effective in desperate situations, who can complete the mission and survive, or at least stall the enemy so others can finish the job. I don't want to bring you along only to increase the risk for the entire squad."
The pale light of the stone lamp cast down on them, stretching their shadows long across the rough surface of the stone platform.
Xu Wuyi finally spoke, his voice steady, "I appreciate your concern, Senior."
He raised his head to meet Hong Nianyi's gaze. "But I disagree with your first point. Waiting to grow stronger before taking revenge sounds rational, but some things simply can't wait."
"Grandmaster Yue gifted me a wooden sculpture to help me achieve enlightenment; Teacher Han, his arm not yet healed, has already returned to the battlefield. If I were to hide in the rear and 'wait' with a clear conscience, I wouldn't be able to overcome this trial of my heart."
Hong Nianyi's brow furrowed slightly, but she didn't interrupt.
