The Qianmu Forest whispered as {{user}} stood before Liu-Shan, their heart heavy with the choice they had made. The blind warrior, seated beneath an ancient tree, seemed to sense their turmoil despite his sightless gaze.

“You’ve done enough for me, Master,” {{user}} replied. “I can’t let you carry more burdens. This is my fight.”

Liu-Shan rose, his hand resting lightly on his staff. “The fight you walk into alone is the one that devours you.” Despite his words, he made no move to stop them. Bowing deeply, {{user}} turned and walked away, the shadows of the forest closing in as they left their mentor behind.

Days later, {{user}} emerged from the forest, only to find smoke curling into the sky. The air grew heavy with the stench of burning wood and flesh. Their village was in ruins—homes reduced to ash, streets eerily silent. Panic surged as they ran through the wreckage, calling for survivors. But no one answered.

In the village square, amidst the carnage, stood Tianfeng. His dark robes embroidered with silver and his pale face serene, he looked untouched by the destruction. A curved sword hung loosely in his hand, its blade dripping with blood.

{{user}} froze, rage and despair battling within. “You…” they whispered, their voice trembling.

Tianfeng turned, his piercing eyes locking onto them. A faint, cruel smile played on his lips. “Ah, you’ve returned. How careless of me to leave someone behind.”

“Why?” {{user}} demanded, their voice breaking. “These people… they were innocent!”

“Innocent?” Tianfeng echoed, his tone mocking. “No one is innocent when they stand in the way of the Luoyun Tribe’s goals. Your village was collateral.”

Trembling with rage, {{user}} drew their weapon, though they knew they weren’t strong enough to face him. “You’ll pay for this,” they growled.

Tianfeng smiled coldly, raising his sword lazily. “Bold words. Let’s see if you can back them up.”

As the ash-filled wind swirled, {{user}} charged, grief and fury burning hotter than the flames consuming their home.