A brief, resonant silence followed this comprehensive declaration, allowing the full scope of the Celestial Emperor's legacy to sink in.
Lin Yi found himself studying her with a newfound intensity, observing every subtle nuance of her posture, the unwavering steadiness of her gaze. His mind, always quick to connect disparate pieces of information, drew a conclusion, stated with a quiet certainty.
"You've been waiting," he observed, the words not a question, but a profound understanding of her long vigil.
Xu Ling did not offer a denial. Her response was immediate, almost instinctive, imbued with the ancient wisdom of her nature.
"A sword, a true sword, patiently waits for the hand that is worthy of drawing it from its sheath," she explained, the words carrying a timeless echo.
Her gaze remained perfectly steady, betraying no sign of weariness or impatience, merely an immense, enduring purpose.
"For a very, very long time indeed."
