After returning with Zoe, Bai Lu quietly approached the sleeping Yuzhen. The gentle rise and fall of Yuzhen's chest were the only movement in the room. With a slow breath, Bai Lu extended his hand and lifted the restraining power he had cast over Yuzhen's body. The moment his energy was withdrawn, the weakened seal within Yuzhen reacted immediately.
Golden scales shimmered into view across Yuzhen's face and arms, trailing along his skin like liquid metal catching the light. His true form lay bare—a silent testament to the beast he carried within. Zoe had seen this form once before, but that didn't stop the flicker of unease that passed through his eyes.
Noticing it, Bai Lu gently broke the silence. "If you're feeling uncomfortable, I can stay with him," he offered, watching Zoe carefully, concern evident in his voice.
