That night, dormitory filled with silence. Every monster wounded, but none as fatally strained as Leng Xue. His barrier veins screamed in agony, blood taste never left mouth. Yan begged, "Brother, one more battle will kill you."
He only smiled wearily. "If wall absent tomorrow, all perish. Clan above self… Shrek is clan now."
Tang San clenched fists until nails bled. "No. You're not alone. My vines will twine harder, your wall need not hold entire weight."
Dawn training showed difference. Tang San adjusted Blue Silver Grass patterns, weaving them immediately into Xue's frost veins. When cracks came, grass spread instantly sealing holes. Two powers synchronized seamlessly, reflecting months of silent understanding. Instructors watched astounded.
Zhao Wuji roared proud. "This is it! Stone wall twined by root. Indestructible."
Yet Xue's body still fracturing—night fevers took toll. Each time he sat alone at frost wall inscriptions, hand trembling, he thought maybe this life nearly done. Still he inscribed line: Even if body falls, words endure to next life.
Tome glowed sporadic, whispering to soul: Cycle near end. Heritage preserved. Fate branching soon.
Leng Xue closed eyes with bittersweet smile. He had walked further this time: from outcast ancestor to wall shouted continent‑wide. Perhaps enough.