The dark space was confined and stuffy, devoid of any light all year round. Lu Xi and a group of wandering spirits like her stayed here, not knowing how many years had passed. In this place where the passage of time couldn't be felt, the only thing they could do was stare blankly at the oppressive darkness. Even the most resolute mind would eventually break under such claustrophobic torment; it was only a matter of time before they collapsed.



She feared forgetting everything, so her daily task was to repeatedly recall her memories. In this place where time seemed to stand still, loneliness bred despair. When even her daily recollections started to blur, and she realized with horror that her memories were fading, she began to wish, like the "elders" here, for her soul to be obliterated.



"Do you want to escape from here?" A voice echoed in her mind, its tone carrying a hint of arrogance. For Lu Xi, whose spirit was beginning to wane, this rare voice was like a gospel. She was momentarily revitalized, her soul becoming more cohesive.



"Yes," she couldn't suppress the strong desire in her heart. She glanced around, but the other wandering spirits seemed oblivious to the voice.



"Now you have a chance. Join us. Pass the test, and you can leave here. Otherwise..." the voice trailed off, pausing for a moment, "your soul will be scattered."



Lu Xi had long wished for death; in this ghostly place, even death was a luxury. Suddenly being told she could leave filled her with an almost unreal joy.



"Alright."




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