Chapter 6: The Family's Silence
One year had passed since Jahin left for the sect. Life in the village had changed. The villagers respected Jihan's family more than ever, whispering about Jahin's potential to become a Golden Core immortal in the future.
But tragedy struck without warning. Jihan's father and mother went to a neighboring village's market and never returned. Days turned into weeks, and no one had seen or heard from them. After a month of waiting and searching, the villagers confirmed the worst: both had died under unknown circumstances.
The news hit Jihan silently, his dark eyes calm yet sharp with awareness. Most children would have been shattered, but Jihan had already learned to calculate and observe, even in matters of the heart. He closed his eyes briefly, taking in the reality. Loss was part of life — and in this world, weakness was fatal.
He went to his desk, dipped a brush into ink, and began to write a letter to his sister, Jahin, at the sect.
> Sister,
Father and Mother will not return. I do not know the full truth yet, but I have taken precautions. Our family remains safe for now. Do not worry about me. Focus on your cultivation. One day, when you return, we will ensure our family rises above all others.
—Jihan
Even as he finished, his dark eyes scanned the letter critically. Every word was precise — not sentimental, but enough to alert her without revealing unnecessary details. He could not risk showing weakness, even to his sister.
The villagers whispered in awe and sympathy, but Jihan remained detached. The loss of his parents did not break him; instead, it became another calculation in the ever-growing plan he was building.
Loss is inevitable. Strength is survival. I will control everything, no matter the circumstances.
As the letter was sent via messenger to the sect, Jihan folded it carefully, tucking it away like a piece on a chessboard. Every action, every word, every decision — even tragedy — was part of the larger game he was preparing to play.
Jahin must grow without distraction. I must prepare the family. And when the system awakens… everything will be mine to control.