"This disciple keeps these words in mind and studies the classics diligently every day. As per Master's requirements, this disciple is lenient with others and strict with himself, striving to be humble, kind, fair, and just... and has finally become a qualified senior disciple of the sect's main peak."

"With this bow, I express my gratitude to my Master for his teachings and for instructing me in the principles of being a good person."

Hearing Gu Jian's hoarse voice, Ye Qingcheng vaguely saw the scene from back then, when she carried Gu Jian back from the dilapidated temple and taught him martial arts.

He grew step by step, awakened his supreme bone, grew into adulthood, and followed his childhood ideal to protect the sect he belonged to.

He was grateful and would come to pay his respects to her every day, bringing her delicious spiritual food.

She was also relieved, and felt exceptionally relaxed when she was with Gu Jian.

But now, he kowtows before her, just as he always does when he greets her.

But his voice was so sorrowful, desolate, and desperate.

Looking at Gu Jian, who was covered in blood, Ye Qingcheng's heart suddenly began to ache.

She regretted hitting him earlier and felt as if she was losing something important.

It was as if the disciple before him was drifting away from him.

Realizing this, Ye Qingcheng began to panic.

She quickly reached out to help Gu Jian up.

At this moment, Gu Jian slowly raised his head.

His face was covered in tears, and his voice was mournful yet resolute.

"Today, I kowtow three times to express my gratitude to my master. I am deeply grateful for the kindness you showed me back then. As a way of repaying you, I will give you everything you desire, but from this day forward, I sever all ties with you!"

Gu Jian raised his hand, and light appeared in his hand.

Under Ye Qingcheng's shocked gaze, his hand, like a knife, pierced into her chest with a "swoosh".

Blood splattered everywhere.

Ye Qingcheng's mind went blank.

Before she could react, Gu Jian had already broken off a section of bone covered in runes from her chest, dug it out, and threw it in front of her.