The change was small, yet to those watching, it felt like a thunderclap in the quiet room.
Another breath.
Then another.
Her chest began to rise and fall more steadily, color gradually returning to her pale complexion.
Finally, after a dozen breaths had passed, her eyelids fluttered.
And then…
They opened.
Her eyes, clear and bright, stared forward in confusion, as if she had just awakened from a long, endless dream.
There was innocence in them, untouched and pure, as she struggled to understand where she was… and what had happened.
"Lian'er!"
Elder Bai Yun's voice trembled as he rushed forward without hesitation.
All composure shattered in that single moment as he reached his daughter and pulled her tightly into his embrace, as though afraid she might disappear if he let go.
"Lian'er… you're awake… you're finally awake…"
His voice cracked, thick with emotion.
"Little sister!"
Bai Meili was no less shaken.
