Illusion Peak shimmered like a mirage, layers of formations overlapping one another in shifting patterns. Even the air felt deceptive, as if reality itself could bend at any moment.
As Li Hao and his team prepared to enter, a sudden commotion drew their attention.
A girl stumbled forward from the side path, her silver hair slightly disheveled, her breathing uneven—but her eyes were sharp.
Very sharp.
"Wait," she called out.
Everyone turned.
A faint illusion flickered behind her—an elegant Silver Moon Fox, its tail swaying as if it existed between reality and illusion.
"I'm Lin Xue," she said, straightening herself. "I need allies."
Wang Lei frowned. "Allies? Just like that?"
Su Ling remained silent, observing.
Li Hao stepped forward.
"Why us?"
Lin Xue didn't hesitate.
"Because you're different," she said, locking eyes with him. "You don't follow the rules of this sect… or the heavens."
For a brief moment, silence fell.
Li Hao studied her carefully.
There was no fear in her voice.
Only determination.
"And what do you offer?" he asked.
Lin Xue raised her hand.
The surrounding illusions shifted instantly.
The ground split into false paths. Shadows multiplied. Even Wang Lei's presence flickered for a second.
"Control over illusion formations," she said. "And information. I was… forced out of Emerald Leaf Pavilion."
There was more to that story—but she didn't say it.
Li Hao nodded slowly.
"Then prove your worth in the trial," he said.
A faint smile appeared on her face.
"I will."
And just like that—
A new member stepped into their path.