The Lazy Sovereign

The hooded figure's voice cut through the tension like a blade. "Xu Tian. Hand over the Heavenly Seal, and I might let you walk away with your life."

Xu Tian blinked, pointing to himself. "Wait, me? You've got the wrong guy! I'm just a humble farmer—"

"Save it," the figure interrupted. "The Heavenly Seal chose you. There's no use denying it."

Xu Tian sighed, gripping his hoe tightly. "Why does everyone know more about my life than I do?"

Beside him, Shen Feng cracked his knuckles, a wide grin plastered across his face. "Well, well, looks like you've made quite the impression. Let me guess—you've been poking your nose where it doesn't belong?"

"Poking?" Xu Tian said indignantly. "If anything, my nose has been minding its own business!"

The cloaked figure stepped forward, their aura darkening. "Enough talk. Surrender now, or suffer the consequences."

Shen Feng clapped Xu Tian on the shoulder. "Don't worry, pal. I've got this."

He stepped forward, his carefree demeanor giving way to something more serious.

"I don't know who you are," Shen Feng said, his voice calm but sharp, "but threatening my new friend here is a big mistake."

The cloaked figure tilted their head, their tone mocking. "And who are you supposed to be? His babysitter?"

"Something like that," Shen Feng replied, pulling out another talisman. "And let me tell you, I take my job very seriously."

The talisman flared to life, unleashing a wave of fire that surged toward the figure.

The cloaked figure raised a hand, conjuring a shimmering barrier that absorbed the flames with ease.

Shen Feng whistled. "Not bad. Guess I'll have to try a little harder."

Xu Tian, meanwhile, backed away slowly. "You know what? I think I'll just—"

"Oh no, you don't," Shen Feng said, grabbing Xu Tian by the collar and dragging him back. "You're part of this, whether you like it or not."

"Why do I always get dragged into these things?" Xu Tian muttered.

The cloaked figure chuckled darkly. "Is this really the best you can do? I expected more from the wielder of the Heavenly Seal."

Xu Tian groaned. "For the last time, I don't even know how to use it!"

As if on cue, the symbol on Xu Tian's palm began to glow, its light cutting through the dim forest.

The cloaked figure stiffened. "So it's true. The Heavenly Seal has awakened."

Xu Tian stared at his palm in horror. "Oh, come on! Now you decide to work?"

The light intensified, and a surge of energy shot out, striking the cloaked figure and forcing them to retreat a few steps.

Shen Feng whistled again. "Well, would you look at that? You've got a talent for surprises."

Xu Tian shook his head frantically. "I didn't mean to do that!"

The cloaked figure snarled, their aura flaring. "You may have the seal, but you're nothing more than an amateur. I'll be back… and next time, you won't be so lucky."

With a swirl of black energy, they disappeared into the shadows, leaving behind an eerie silence.

Xu Tian collapsed to the ground, his breathing ragged. "I'm officially done. No more seals, no more strangers, and definitely no more assassins."

Shen Feng laughed, helping him to his feet. "You're in this now, my friend. Might as well enjoy the ride."

Xu Tian glared at him. "Enjoy? Do I look like I'm enjoying this?"

Shen Feng patted him on the back. "Come on. Let's find a safe place to rest. You'll thank me later."

As they walked deeper into the forest, the glowing symbol on Xu Tian's palm began to pulse rhythmically, as if responding to some unseen force.

Xu Tian frowned. "Why do I get the feeling this thing is leading us into even more trouble?"

Shen Feng grinned. "Because it probably is."