Lin Xiang's voice carried a commanding tone as he addressed the group, his words laced with an undercurrent of steel. "Girls, Huo Shie, Huo Shu – get behind us. I'll take the lead."
A chorus of affirmative murmurs followed, each word laced with an unquestioning deference to Lin Xiang's authority.
For Xie Ya, Song Yu, and Yin Xinya, this dynamic was as familiar as the air they breathed, a holdover from their days in the mortal realms when Lin Xiang's intelligence and overwhelming strength had earned him the mantle of leadership.
As for Lin Ping and Gi Zuo, a surge of nostalgia washed over them, vivid memories of days long past resurfacing as they were reminded of the countless times when Lin Xiang had taken charge, his brilliance and sheer might commanding the respect of all.