37 To the very beginning!

It had been over three hours since Bai and Fiona found themselves alone in Fiona's chamber. Their bodies were strategically positioned at opposite corners of the room, creating a palpable tension between them. The silence in the room was deafening, interrupted only by the occasional creaking of the wooden floor and the rustling of their clothing.

Fiona's mind was reeling with questions about her mother's behavior and Mason's sudden change of plans. Bai, on the other hand, was grappling with her turmoil. The revelation about her brother and the location she was meant to go to caused an intense conflict within herself.

In the dim light of the room, Bai glanced at Fiona from the corner of her eye. She noted the deep furrow on Fiona's brow, her clenched fists, and the way she was biting her lower lip.

Fiona, in turn, found herself examining Bai with wary curiosity. Their eyes met from time to time, each trying to decipher the thoughts running through the other's mind.

This silent exchange continued for several minutes until Fiona, unable to stand the tension any longer, broke the silence.

"Bai, what if...," Fiona hesitated, her eyes fixed on the intricate pattern on the rug beneath her feet, "What if your brother has strayed down the wrong path? What if he's been captured because of his crimes against my Dynasty?" She turned to look at Bai, her emerald eyes reflecting a depth of worry.

Bai stiffened at her words, her heart pounding in her chest. Her hands began to shake, and she clasped them tightly together, a futile attempt to hide her anxiety. She stammered, "I...I don't... He wouldn't... He couldn't..."

Fiona held her gaze, a strange intensity burning in her eyes. "But what if he did? What if your brother turned against us?" She pressed, her voice firm. "What side would you choose then, Bai? Would you stand by your brother or fight alongside us?"

Bai swallowed hard, her mind spinning. She had never considered this possibility. Her brother was everything to her, the only family she had left. The thought of him betraying her trust was too painful to bear.

Before Bai could muster a response, the door of the chamber swung open, and Mason entered the room. His expression was grave as he announced, "We cannot stay here any longer. We must leave for my Sect immediately."

Fiona sprang up from her chair, confusion and frustration painting her face. "Why this sudden change, Mason? What happened between you and my mother?" She demanded, her eyes boring into him.

Mason glanced at Bai before focusing his attention back on Fiona. "Your mother believes it's best to lure the enemy away from the royal family. They've gone into hiding, and she trusts us to keep you safe." His voice was soft, filled with a silent plea for Fiona to trust him.

Fiona's eyes widened, her heart heavy with the weight of Mason's words. She moved closer to him, her hand reaching up to touch his cheek gently. "You promise to keep me safe?" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Mason nodded, pulling Fiona into a comforting embrace. "I promise, Fiona." He reassured her, his voice soft but firm.

The finality in Mason's words made Fiona's decision for her. She nodded slowly, her mind made up. "Alright, Mason. I trust you." She said, stepping closer to him.

She wrapped her arms around him, pulling him in for a passionate kiss.

Bai watched the scene unfold, a pang of jealousy tugging at her heart. She saw Fiona's glance and noticed the silent warning in it. She shrugged, feigning indifference, but her heart pounded with an inexplicable pain.

As she watched them disappear, teleporting to Mason's Sect, she felt a sense of relief. She was finally alone, and she could start her search for her brother. But before she could act, Mason reappeared in the chamber.

His eyes met hers, and for a moment, Bai could see the conflict hidden within their depths. It seemed as though Mason was trying to decipher her thoughts and understand the fear and uncertainty that she was doing her best to hide.

"Bai," Mason's voice echoed through the room.

"Yes, Mason?" Bai responded, her voice noticeably tense.

"I want you to be safe, too. I'd have taken you with us, but you know...," Mason paused, thinking of the rules of his Sect that prevented Bai from entering due to her unprecedented return. He had to protect Fiona, but he also wanted to help Bai. His heart clenched at the thought of leaving her behind.

Bai could see the concern etched on his face. She nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "I understand, Mason. Don't worry about me. Just...just keep Fiona safe."

Mason nodded, a glimmer of relief flashing in his eyes. He placed his hand on her shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Be careful, Bai."

"I will," she assured him, her gaze unwavering.

With a last glance at Bai, Mason disappeared again, this time leaving Bai alone. As she watched Mason's retreating form, her mind was filled with questions and fears. But she pushed them aside. She had a mission to accomplish.

As soon as Mason was out of sight, Bai felt her heart pounding in her chest. The feeling of relief and nervous excitement was overwhelming. She could finally search for her brother without any interruptions.

But she felt a twinge of guilt. Mason had shown her nothing but kindness and respect since they met, and here she was, lying to him. Pushing those thoughts aside, she gathered her resolve. Her priority was to find Ming.

Her heart pounded against her chest as she walked down the familiar paths. Despite her fear, she knew what she had to do. She owed it to herself and her brother.

Once she was certain she was alone and away from prying eyes, Bai started her search for her brother. Oblivious to Mason's stealthy watch from the shadows, she made her way toward the secret location–a serene cave tucked away behind a roaring waterfall.

Mason could see the determination in her eyes and the resolve in her steps. As he watched her disappear into the distance, a small smile tugged at the corner of his lips. 'Let the game begin.' He thought, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

*****

Author's Note

~ Who's curious as to where this leads for Bai and Mason?

~ How do you see Bai's reaction to all that had happened so far?

It feels good to be nearly better after my crippling illness and the fact that I can write is a relief. I'm glad that I could keep my promise to update as scheduled on my return.

I want to appreciate those who still stuck around the story, although I can't promise daily updates but it would update at least once in two days if I meet some hurdles or weakness (for the time being)

Could you donate your power stones after reset or when you read this? Show this book your support anyway you can.