A mist-wrapped mountain road below the gates of Yǎngshén Sect. A modest imperial carriage has stopped far from the main ceremonial stair.

The side gate and outer courtyard of Yǎngshén Sect, busy with routine sect life rather than ceremony.

Outer training court beside the administrative path. Sect glory is visible, but Fen is routed around it.

East administrative hall waiting area with jade counters, brush racks, and sect ledgers.

Administrative hall corridor as Elder Shu arrives to receive Fen.

A long jade corridor leading from administration to guest quarters.

West Guest Court, Room 7. A clean but modest guest chamber assigned to Fen.

Fen reviews the schedule while Elder Shu explains her assigned cultivation routine.

Fen and Elder Shu continue discussing expectations in the guest chamber.

Fen subtly asks about formalities while appearing grateful for her room.

Guest chamber doorway, conversation turning toward the previous imperial cultivator.

Elder Shu gives the official story about Xiao Rong's departure.

Fen internally compares Shu's claim with imperial recall procedure.

The conversation closes without confrontation.

Outside Fen's room, disciples pass by and casually repeat the official story.

Fen in her assigned room after Elder Shu leaves, examining what she has been given and what she has not.

A disciple delivers Fen's evening meal to the room rather than inviting her to the communal hall.

Night settles over the west guest court. Fen studies the building layout from her window.

Lower meditation court before dawn, the next morning.

Fen experiences the basic Yǎngshén breathing exercise under observation.

After dawn cultivation, Fen's results are recorded at a jade measurement table.

Administrative table beside the meditation court after records are filed.

Fen returns to Room 7 at dusk with the handbook and schedule.

Night in the west guest court. Fen accepts her role outwardly while planning inwardly.