Before Jared could answer, Corin appeared, leaning on his cane. One sharp sweep of his gaze took in Lyra’s awkward posture, flicked to Jared, and settled there with an all-too-knowing smile.

“Youthful vigor is admirable,” said, beard quivering. “Everything in moderation, though, excess tips into harm.”

He had not spoken the charge aloud, but the meaning in his eyes was bright as noon. Lyra heard every syllable. Her neck reddened to the roots of hair. She fled toward chambers, skirts flying, never daring a backward look. Inside, berated Jared in silence.

A whole year and never once thought to pace himself. Now, even walking is a challenge…

Jared rubbed the bridge of his nose, mortified. Corin moved closer, and the moment felt the vast, newly forged Earthly Immortal Realm spiritual energy on Jared’s body, his eyes widened. “Y-You’ve stepped into Earthly Immortal Realm already?”

It was important to note that Jared had just broken through to Wandering Immortal Realm a few months prior. Such cultivation speed was unheard of. Jared chuckled, scratching his ear. “I consider myself lucky. Dual cultivation with Lyra accelerated the process.”

Corin nodded again and again, his eyes full of relief. “Excellent-excellent! At last, Sword Sect has an expert who can stand alone on the field!”