What do we do now? Ling Xi asked, her voice edged with frustration. After all the effort we spent, the one we killed wasnt even the real one. Are we just supposed to sit here and wait to die?

The group shook their heads immediately. They werent going to sit and wait for death. But the reality was just as harsh: none of them had a better plan. Even if they managed to escape, they wouldnt be able to defeat the real Black Mist YaoGuai. And if they run now, they might never get another chance to come back and finish what they started.

I cant believe weve come all this way and still havent accomplished our goal, Zhang Nu said grimly. But were not backing down now. The four of us togethersurely we can take him down. Dont lose hope.

But even as he spoke, the others could hear the forced optimism in his tone. They werent kids anymore, they knew their own limits, and theyd felt how much it took just to defeat a mere decoy clone of the YaoGuai. Facing the real one? That might be impossible.

Zhang Nu, its not that we want to give up, Liu Hai said, eyes lowered. But that thing is too strong. Do you really think we stand a chance?

Zhang Nu fell silent. He knew Liu Hai was right. His earlier words had just been an attempt to rally them, to boost morale, not because he truly believed it. With their current strength, he wasnt sure they could win. Not yet. Not unless he advanced to the next rank.

But what choice do we have? Zhang Nu finally said. Even if we retreat, well have to come back one day. We might as well finish it now.

Lin Xiao nodded slightly. He agreed with Zhang Nu in principle, but rushing into a head-on clash with Black Mist would be suicide. At the moment, survival had to come first.

Zhang Nu, what youre saying isnt wrong, Lin Xiao replied, but the most important thing now is to stay alive. If we try to fight Black Mist head-on, none of us will walk away.

Zhang Nu grew quiet again. Lin Xiaos words made sense. But the question remainedcould they even leave? That wasnt for them to decide anymore.

Its not up to us whether we stay or go, Zhang Nu said. It depends on whether this YaoGuai lets us leave. We could try to retreat all we want, but if he doesnt let us go, what then?

Well, well, looks like youre the one who sees things most clearly. Black Mists voice suddenly rang out, dripping with condescension. If you want to leave, youll have to ask for my permission.

The group clenched their fists in anger. Black Mists arrogance was unbearable, but there was nothing they could do about it.

Zhang Nu turned to the others, his voice firm. Lin Xiaos right. If we want to end this once and for all, we need to take him down. And maybe just maybe, doing so will give us the breakthrough weve all been pursuing.

Lin Xiao gave a rare nod. That was exactly what hed been thinking too. He could feel ithis strength was on the verge of a breakthrough. All he needed was the right moment. If he could land the final blow on Black Mist, he was certain he could advance.

Ling Xi, Liu Hai, Zhang Nu said, turning to them. If either of you are hesitant, you can stay back. Lin Xiao and I will handle this.

Liu Hai frowned, immediately offended. What are you talking about? Were a team! How can you expect me to sit this out while you two fight alone?

He stepped forward, eyes burning with resolve. Dont worry! Im fighting alongside you, all the way to the end.

Ling Xi watched the exchange with a soft, unreadable expression. For a moment, she felt envious. Shed always had people who cared about herthe other YaoGuais she lived withbut shed never had friends like these. Friends who bickered and fought and still stood side by side when it mattered most. A bond forged in battle and trust. She didnt know if shed ever be welcome in their circle, but part of her wished she could be.

We came here together, she said, breaking the silence. So we fight together. Theres no way Im letting you face him without me.

Zhang Nu smiled at her words, warm and genuine.

And just like that, a new little team, born of fire and resolve, stood together once more, ready to face the battle ahead.