Zhou You cradled his face, examining both sides, then felt it with his hands. Given the advancements in plastic surgery, he wasn't too concerned—it was just a minor setback.

Guiding Shao Qi to sit, Zhou You took his pulse. The once vibrant meridians now only held a feeble beat. Attempting to channel some energy into him, Zhou You found it dissipating instantly upon entering.

"Stop examining. My meridians are destroyed; there won't be any reaction."

"This isn't just internal injury anymore. Anyone else with such grave injuries probably wouldn't be able to stand."

"My physique is robust enough for everyday life; I just wonder how long I can maintain this state."

His hesitation to face Zhou You was not just due to his disabled state or his disfigurement but also the growing disparity between their physical conditions.

It's akin to a young person marrying a decrepit old man—the gap is too vast.

"You're thinking too far ahead. Given our positions, any day could be our last. Are you really worried we won't grow old together? Did you ever think of this when we got together?"

With anger, Zhou You retorted, "Had you died on the battlefield, I'd be a widower. You survived, and I'm grateful for that. What more could I ask for?"

Thinking of those no longer with them, Zhou You truly desired nothing more.

If roles were reversed, Shao Qi wouldn't think this way—it's just that his battered body is a source of constant frustration.

Shao Qi lunged at him, kicking the bedroom door open and pushing him inside.

"Didn't you mention taking a shower? Hmm..."

"Together!... But don't turn on the lights!"

"How do you shower in the dark? What if you drown in the bathtub?"

"Don't worry, I can assist you with my energy." They didn't use the tub; the overhead shower drenched them, and their clothes disappeared at some unnoticed moment.

Zhou You, controlling the lights with his energy, turned them on, holding Shao Qi's face tenderly for a passionate kiss.

Shao Qi wanted to resist but couldn't, sighing, "You have peculiar tastes!"

Zhou You responded with a deep chuckle, then left a fierce love bite on Shao Qi's collarbone.

There were already numerous marks on that body, and he desired to imprint one of his own.

Later, they moved to the bed where Zhou You briefed him on the situation in Dawn City, sharing some insights from Situ Han and others not mentioned before.

Regarding the martial arts tournament, Zhou You initially considered withdrawing, feeling his goals no longer necessitated participation.

However, Shao Qi suggested he remain a contender, "Numerous people are participating in this tournament, including the heads of major sects. It's bound to be an event of far-reaching influence.

"Your martial prowess is beyond doubt—you're bound to emerge as the champion. This title carries immense prestige, which will be beneficial for your future influence."

If Shao Qi had retained his position, Zhou You's reputation would naturally spread far and wide. But now, Zhou You must earn the world's respect on his own.

People still remember his glorious achievements and wouldn't slight Zhou You for now. But over time, such past glories might tarnish, causing others to underestimate him.

"Alright, I'll go. But you must come back with me," Zhou You firmly stated.

Embracing him, Shao Qi replied, "Fine, but let me undergo a surgery first. You go ahead, and I'll join you soon."

"No, I'll wait and we'll go together."

"Will we make it in time for the contest?"

"The finals are a month away. Before that, I need to visit the Life Base. I have an idea which might enable your honorable return."

Chapter 232: Perhaps, Our Hearts Resonate

When Shao Qi awoke the next day, he found himself in a vehicle. Through the window, he glimpsed a primeval forest—a path he remembered from when he first encountered Liu Kai's team.

Leaning back in his seat, Shao Qi noticed Zhou You driving and caught his glance through the rearview mirror. "Why so silent?"

Touching his freshly dressed wounds and clean attire, Shao Qi chuckled, "When did you start this business of kidnapping? I can't believe I was taken out without sensing anything. Did you do something to me?"

"Oh, a lot actually. You were completely exposed. I dressed you, I put on your shoes, and I carried you to the car. Any thoughts?"

"None. Anything you do to me is, after all, permissible," Shao Qi replied, sitting up straight. "Why did you bring me to the Life Base?"

Zhou You pondered, "On second thought, I wasn't comfortable leaving you alone there. Your current state is fragile. What would I do if something happened to you?"

Shao Qi chuckled softly, acknowledging the concern. Moving to the front passenger seat, he began recounting his initial encounter in the area.

"Liu Kai? They did save you. You'll have an opportunity to repay them."

"I've already paid my dues. It's best not to get too involved with certain matters. I'm quite the trouble now."

"Humph, who dares to call you trouble? You can keep your composure. Your funeral was such a spectacle; what would people who mourned for you think if you appeared again?"

"There's nothing I can do about that."

Zhou You moves swiftly on this side, and those in Dawn City who watch his every move begin to sense something amiss.

Zhou You hasn't been seen for several days. Rumor has it he's in seclusion at home. Occasionally, one might catch a glimpse of a silhouette from a slightly opened curtain, but he has never shown himself. Everyone feels something is off.

Then, one by one, people came visiting under various pretenses. Old Master Shao simply feigned illness and moved into a sanatorium. Shao Zhen also moved in to care for him, leaving no gaps for others to exploit.

"We're here. Stay in the car for now; I'll go ask General Qin for accommodations." Zhou You parked the car by the roadside and headed alone towards the checkpoint of the life base. This place is outside the city walls, but already has a defense line with soldiers standing guard.