By dusk, the towering mountain gate of the Qingxuan Sect finally appeared at the edge of his vision.
Fang Han followed behind Zhou Jin, ascending the familiar blue stone steps.
His pace was much slower than usual. Every time he lifted a leg, it pulled at the bandaged wounds on his body, causing a dull ache.
The bloodstains on his green robe had already dried into dark brown patches, sticking to his body and rubbing lightly against his wounds with every step.
The ancient trees on both sides of the mountain path cast long shadows in the twilight. The occasional chirp of a bird returning to its nest echoed from the woods, accentuating the tranquility of the mountains.
"Go back and tend to your wounds first."
Arriving at the fork in the road that led to the True Inheritance Courtyard, Zhou Jin stopped and turned to look at Fang Han.
"I will report the matter of Yin Wugou to the Sect Leader."
"My thanks, Elder Zhou."
Fang Han nodded and cupped his hands in a salute.
