The morning mist still clung to the shattered walls of the fallen sect's ruins, softening the harsh edges of destruction. Wang Lin stood silently, gazing at the broken banners fluttering weakly in the breeze. The weight of the night's confrontation still lingered in his muscles and mind.
"You carry a heavy burden," a calm voice broke the silence.
Wang Lin turned to see Lian Hua, the last remaining disciple of this once-proud sect. Her eyes were sharp, tinged with sorrow and stubborn resolve. "This power of yours — it's not just a blessing. It will shape you… maybe even change you."
Wang Lin's gaze darkened. "I'm afraid of that. The Abduction Path—it's powerful, yes, but I feel a shadow growing inside me. Sometimes, I wonder if I'm losing control."
Lian Hua stepped closer, her hand resting firmly on his shoulder. "You're stronger than you think. And you're not alone anymore."
Before Wang Lin could respond, a sudden rustle in the nearby bushes drew their attention.
A man with a lean build and quick, hawk-like eyes emerged, his movements fluid and confident. A short blade hung loosely on his back. His grin was mischievous, almost playful.
"So, the rumors are true," he said, voice laced with amusement. "The boy who steals power and the fierce last disciple of the fallen sect. Quite the duo."
Lian Hua frowned. "Jin Tao, this is no time for your games."
The man chuckled softly. "I'm serious. The Temple's watchers are already circling. We need every edge we can get."
Wang Lin narrowed his eyes. "Who exactly are you?"
"Name's Jin Tao," he said with a slight bow, his grin never fading. "A scavenger by trade, but I owe Lian Hua here my life. I've been tracking the Temple's moves ever since they fell on this place. If we want to survive, we have to stick together."
Lian Hua's expression softened, a flicker of trust passing between them. "The Temple's forces won't stop until every threat is snuffed out."
Wang Lin felt something he hadn't in a long time: hope.
He squared his shoulders, voice steady and sure. "Then we prepare. We fight back. Not just for us, but for all who've suffered at the Temple's hands."
Jin Tao's grin widened. "Now that is a plan I'm all in for."
As the first rays of sunlight broke through the clouds, casting golden light on the ruins, three unlikely allies stood united. The path ahead was uncertain, but together, they would face whatever darkness came.