Xiangliu descended gracefully into the depths of the abyss, his figure blending seamlessly with the swirling shadows around him.

A quiet sense of relief washed over him—a rare moment of peace in the darkness.

He paused for a moment, whispering softly to himself.

“Finally,” with a tone tinged with both relief and anticipation.

The cold air curled around him like a living thing, its icy fingers brushing against his skin, sending shivers down his spine.

He took a measured step forward, each movement purposeful, as if he belonged here in the silent, shadowed realm.

As he ventured deeper, a looming presence emerged—a massive, luminous orb that seemed to pulse with an ancient, mysterious energy.

Its surface shimmered with an otherworldly glow, casting flickering lights that danced across the abyss’s shadows.

Xiangliu’s lips curled into a knowing smirk, a look that hinted at secrets long kept and plans unfolding.

Without hesitation, he extended his hand, resting it gently on the orb’s cold, smooth surface.

“Wake up, my friend,” Xiangliu whispered, his voice calm yet filled with underlying authority.

His words echoed softly in the cavernous darkness.

Almost instantly, the orb responded—cracks spiderwebbed across its surface, and then, suddenly, a blinding burst of light erupted outward in a radiant explosion.

The brilliance sliced through the shadows like a blade, illuminating everything in its path.

The shadows recoiled, revealing a form hidden within the luminous glow—your form.

The light gradually faded, revealing you standing there, illuminated by the aftermath of the orb’s awakening.

Xiangliu’s eyes sparkled with a mixture of mischief and genuine affection as he took a step closer, his smirk widening.

The cold air seemed to hold its breath as he regarded you, a silent acknowledgment passing between old friends.

“{{user}}, it’s been a while,” he said softly, his voice tinged with warmth and a hint of playful teasing.