Before the Return Trip

With Starlight and the others readily agreeing, the matter was quickly settled. Lian’s heart swelled with anticipation; she knew that with them along, the journey to the World Tree would be far safer—and certainly much more interesting.

However, Lian knew she couldn't linger. While the time spent with friends was comfortable and easy, a mountain of tribal affairs awaited her attention.

After a brief farewell, Lian departed from the guesthouse, informing them that she intended to set out in two days' time, at dawn.

Once Lian had left, Xia Duo slumped onto the soft sofa, looking exhausted. She let out a soft sigh of frustration. “In the end, we didn't get any useful information out of this trip. I thought we might glean more intel from Lian, but all we did was confirm that the Dark Tribe currently has neither the motive nor the time to join forces with the humans. It’s... truly a headache.”

Indeed, as Xia Duo noted, their journey seemed to be guided by an invisible force, pulling them further away from their original course. Fate seemed to enjoy playing tricks, repeatedly sweeping them into unexpected whirlpools of trouble.

“It’s fine, it’s fine. At worst, we’ll just have to make another trip to the Crimson City-State,” Po Kong said, ever the optimist. He never saw these troubles as a burden; instead, he felt these experiences were forging them into something better.

“True, but I don't know if the border blockade has been lifted yet. If not, I’ll have to apply for the necessary passes. Ugh, just thinking about it is a hassle. I’ll have to drag you all to the garrison...” Xia Duo rubbed her temples and sighed.

“It’s not a big deal, I’m in! But I assume we won’t need to hack into any databases this time? If you have something like that in mind, you’d better tell us beforehand!”

“Don’t worry. While I do enjoy the thrill, there’s no need to make a habit of it,” Xia Duo replied, rolling her eyes at him before falling silent.

Starlight and Moen sat quietly to the side, listening to the banter. Both wore faint smiles, sharing a silent, profound understanding. Perhaps this was the true charm of travel; it wasn't just an exploration of the external world, but a journey of spiritual growth.

Everything they had experienced on this journey, though far removed from their original goals, had enriched their lives and deepened the bonds of their friendship.

“Alright, since it’s decided, let’s get ready,” Starlight said, standing up and stretching. “Who knows? We might find something new on the road in two days.”

“Yes, we might even run into something interesting,” Moen softly agreed.

“Then it’s settled!” Po Kong added with a laugh. “Get some good rest over the next two days. Recharge your batteries and get ready for a new adventure!”

Xia Duo finally cracked a smile and nodded. “Fine. Since everyone is so optimistic, I can’t exactly keep complaining. I just hope things go a bit smoother this time.”

They shared a look and a smile. They all knew the road ahead would likely be filled with the unknown and challenges, but as long as they were together, no obstacle was insurmountable.

...

Two days later, in the early morning, the group met as planned at the northern exit of Night Lotus Valley.

They decided against taking the water route this time. After all, Hitral had recently appeared in those waters, and there was absolutely no reason to risk another encounter with the Sea Demon King.

When they arrived at the designated meeting point, they were surprised to find that Lian and her party were already waiting for them.

Seeing this, the four quickened their pace. As they drew closer, Starlight could clearly make out the figures standing beside Lian.

Per Lian’s firm request, the entourage was small—only Lira and a twenty-man squad of personal guards. Lian appeared to be discussing something with her subordinates, but she immediately waved to them as soon as they came into view.

Ryan, the Night Elf Saint Archmage, stood quietly at Lian’s side. Thanks to his different system of cultivation, his injuries were far less severe than those of the Saint Rank warriors who relied on battle qi.

After several days of rest and treatment, his injuries were well under control. Although he still couldn't exert his full strength, simple guard duty was well within his capabilities.

In front of him sat You, now devoid of his former power, resting in a simple wooden wheelchair.

You still looked quite sickly, his complexion a world away from what it once was. Yet, to Starlight’s surprise, despite his aged appearance, the old man seemed to be in exceptionally high spirits. His dim eyes held an indescribable sense of peace and contentment.

Upon seeing the four arrive, a smile touched You’s face, and he gave them a peaceful nod.

“Senior You, is your health alright? Surely you aren’t planning to set out with us?” Starlight asked, a hint of concern in his voice. After a polite greeting, he leaned down slightly, speaking softly so as not to disturb the others.

“I wouldn’t say I’m well, but I’m not dead yet. I’m only here to see you all off, so don’t trouble yourselves worrying about an old man like me. Come, push me for a little walk.”

You slowly looked up, his gaze warm and resigned. He watched Lian as she meticulously planned the route with Lira, then turned back to Starlight with a faint smile. “I truly never expected this. I spent my whole life reading the fates of others, yet in the end, I failed to see my own. Fortunately, Lian is a hardworking child. She’s doing much better than I ever imagined.”

Indeed, even Starlight could see that Lian had become far more composed since the crisis began. Compared to the mischievous, food-loving girl he had first met, her every gesture now carried the burgeoning poise of a leader.

As Starlight pushed the wheelchair, he looked at Lian’s busy, petite figure and couldn’t help but smile. It was a smile of relief at her growth and hope for her future. Unlike his three companions, he saw Lian more as a little sister who needed care and guidance. Seeing her step toward maturity filled him with a sense of pride.

“True, but the price for her growth was quite high,” Starlight sighed, a trace of worry flickering in his eyes as he looked down at You.

While he wasn't particularly close to the old man, he still held a great deal of respect for him as a senior.

You seemed to catch the unintentional note of pity in Starlight’s voice. He waved it off dismissively. “No. In my eyes, for the sake of the tribe’s survival and future, such a price is acceptable. Besides, aren't I still alive and well?” With that, his tone shifted, and a spark of curiosity and expectation lit his eyes. He asked warmly, “Starlight, my young friend, what do you think of Lian?”