Yet, Gui’er’s mood refused to lift in any meaningful way. “Sigh…” She sat listlessly amidst a mountain of flower baskets, resting her chin on her hands, and let out another unconscious sigh.

“Hehe, Boss, has it been three weeks since he left?” Li Lu, the shop girl tidying up merchandise, turned back to ask. Gui’er casually replied, “It’s been four months and two days.” “Hehe, four months and two days, Boss remembers so clearly,” Li Lu immediately teased.

Li Lu had taken to provoking her like this lately, finding amusement in teasing her woes. Gui’er gave Li Lu a weary glare, lacking even the spirit to retort, and sighed again, hugging her knees to her chest, burying her face in them.

“Don’t be so downcast. Long-distance yearning is painful, yes, but it’s also quite romantic.

Besides, he isn’t gone forever. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, you know,” Li Lu commented with the air of an emotional expert, sounding far older than her years.

If only I knew if he’s actually coming back… Gui’er managed a bitter smile. Ever since Zhou Ying left with Huo’er and the Three Panda Brothers, a nagging feeling had settled in her heart—the possibility that he might never return.

That was his homeland, holding his past, his friends. With his personality, if they all insisted he stay, he might very well settle there for good.

The only comfort Gui’er found was that Liu Di had vanished after Zhou Ying left; she presumed he had gone with him. With the conniving Liu Di around, perhaps he could persuade Zhou Ying to return.

But… what if there are many beautiful demonesses in those mountains? In that case, maybe even Liu Di wouldn’t come back?

“Sigh…” Gui’er sighed once more. “Boss, you’ve sighed a hundred times today!

If you keep sighing, you’ll age a year!” Li Lu finished her tasks and rushed over to comfort her. Gui’er managed a weak smile toward her.

“Boss, I have something to discuss with you,” Li Lu said mysteriously, pulling out a flyer. “Look at this.” Gui’er took it.

It was an advertisement for some sort of “Performance Training Workshop”—the usual spiel about training performers and providing opportunities, contingent upon paying a certain sum. She skimmed it and asked, “You want to go?” Li Lu’s face flushed bright red as she nodded vigorously.

Gui’er knew Li Lu deeply yearned for the entertainment industry and harbored a celebrity dream. Even when cleaning, she moved with a certain rhythm, and during any free moment, her singing filled the air, rendering the shop’s old sound system obsolete.

To be fair, though Li Lu wasn’t a stunning beauty, she possessed a sweet, doll-like face, and her personality was lively and sincere. In Gui’er’s eyes, she was better than many actors on television.

Although she was a girl from the countryside looking for work, her grasp of city trends was both accurate and fast. In just two or three months, she had transformed from the simple country girl who applied for the job into a fashionable city girl who blended in perfectly.

Gui’er felt this adaptability was a prerequisite for stardom. In short, Gui’er didn't doubt Li Lu’s potential as an actress; rather, she distrusted the nature of the advertisement.

She scrutinized it again and asked with concern, “Could this just be a scam to take money?” “But this part says that if you sign a contract with them, you can attend training for free, paying the tuition back from future performance earnings,” Li Lu pointed out one clause. “That sounds too good to be true…” Gui’er murmured.

“Boss, what do you think? Should I go?” Although she was consulting Gui’er, the light dancing in her eyes already betrayed her firm decision.

“Sigh, I really don’t want you to go; otherwise, I’ll have to find someone else to hire… But I can’t ruin your future either. How about you sign an autograph for me first?

Just in case you become a huge star and I can’t get near you anymore!” “Stop it, Boss, how can you say that!” “Then when are you planning to leave?” “Tomorrow!” “Oh, that fast? Then you should go buy some nice clothes to spruce yourself up.

You need to let those people see the brilliance of a rising star at first glance! So, for now… we’ll close early.

I’ll take you shopping!” “Hooray! Boss, you’re the greatest!” Li Lu threw her arms up with a cheer.

After buying lavishly for Li Lu, Gui’er returned laden with her own spoils—seven or eight large bags, huffing and puffing as she climbed to the sixth floor. Only when she opened the door did she realize she had habitually entered Zhou Ying’s apartment across the hall.

Zhou Ying and Huo’er weren't home. Gui’er had resolved not to come over daily anymore, intending to clean only every other day, but every evening upon returning, she still found herself drawn there first.

“Sigh…” Gui’er had lost count of how many times she’d sighed today. She sank onto the sofa, lacking the desire even to inspect her ‘haul.’ Without Huo’er, she had no appetite for cooking.

Though her stomach was growling, she couldn’t force herself to eat, merely nibbling aimlessly at an apple from the table. Crack.

A faint sound came from the bedroom. Gui’er jumped up instantly.

It was highly unlikely a thief could enter Zhou Ying’s place. Could they have returned?

She rushed over in a few strides and threw the door open. Zhou Ying and Huo’er were not inside; instead, a child’s something was rummaging through drawers and cabinets.

Gui’er felt a pang of disappointment, then crossed her arms and called out crossly, “Fox! What are you doing?

Robbing the place?” “Where did Zhou Ying put the medicinal herbs?” Lin Rui asked without turning around, his tone equally sharp. “Herbs?

Here.” Gui’er opened a large cabinet and pulled out a medicinal box. Demons generally disliked Western pills; most households kept some traditional Chinese herbs on hand.

“What herb are you looking for? Who’s sick?

Your mother?” Gui’er kindly suggested, “If she’s ill, it’s best to see a human doctor. Don’t let your amateur hands mess with her medicine.” “Don’t curse my mother!” Lin Rui spun around abruptly.

“I need it!” Seeing his face, Gui’er let out a startled shriek. Lin Rui looked as if he had just fought a battle royale with someone; one side of his face was bruised purple and yellow, his lip was split, his nose was askew, and there were several bleeding scratch marks.

He snatched the medicine box from Gui’er’s hand and frantically searched it, muttering, “How can I face my mom looking like this!” “Heavens, you got into a fight with classmates,” Gui’er quickly fetched warm water and a clean towel to wipe his face. Lin Rui glared at her.

“Are you an idiot? Do you think I’d look like this after fighting a human?” Gui’er began to understand: In Lixin City, Lin Rui was among the weaker-mana demons.

Unlike Lu Weima and others who possessed smooth or subtle methods of self-preservation, his arrogant attitude had created many enemies. Usually, with Huo’er backing him up, he could act the part of the tiger’s might to bully others.

After Huo’er and Zhou Ying left, for a short time, the lingering aura of Huo’er kept others in check. But they had been gone for over a month with no word.

Rumors were starting to circulate among the Lixin City demons that they wouldn't be coming back, and consequently, some people had grown bold enough to target Lin Rui. “Are you badly hurt?” Gui’er asked, worried.

She knew Lin Rui’s limited abilities and feared he was seriously injured. “Hmph, he’s not less injured than I am,” Lin Rui rubbed the medicine roughly onto his face.

“We don’t know when Huo’er will return. You need to be careful these days!” “I know without you telling me.” With the herbal medicine and some minor spells, Lin Rui’s external injuries, though not healed, were no longer visible.

Before leaving, he turned back and warned Gui’er, “I suggest you return to your own place. You should stay away from Zhou Ying’s house.

Huo’er made quite a few enemies. They’ve all been getting restless lately.

You’re in a weaker position than me!” “No, it couldn’t be that bad…” Gui’er felt a flicker of fear when she heard how serious he sounded. “Just think about which demons Huo’er ate that someone else helped prepare into meals for him,” Lin Rui added before waving goodbye and leaving.

Watching him disappear, Gui’er’s heart tightened. Could a demon, holding a grudge against Huo’er, really come here to attack her?

No, discretion was the better part of valor. She shouldn't stay here.

Grabbing her shopping bags, she quickly ran back to her own apartment, bolted the door tight, and finally let out a breath. Gui’er looked in the mirror; her current appearance was a wreck: dark circles under her eyes, a look of listlessness, and a belly full of anxiety—all thanks to Lin Rui’s words.

Although nothing actually happened, she had been so frightened she hadn't slept well all night, resulting in her current state this morning. If only I’d known he never speaks the truth, how could I have been foolish enough to believe him.

Gui’er sighed at her own lack of cunning, then jumped up to start cleaning the shop. Since Li Lu wouldn’t be coming in today, and Gui’er doubted her entry into the entertainment world would be smooth sailing, she decided to keep the job open for a while and wasn't planning to hire anyone new.

Thus, all the work would fall solely on her shoulders. As she calculated whether she needed to restock inventory today, she decided on a thorough cleaning that would reach every corner.

Being busy should help her forget some unpleasantness. Yes, a major clean-up!

Gui’er rolled up her sleeves and began working with renewed vigor. “Doctor Nan, the patient in bed sixty-three…” A frantic voice and the sound of rushed footsteps echoed simultaneously in the hallway.

Nan Yu looked up from the book in her hands, her brow furrowing slightly. How many times recently had this happened—a patient’s condition suddenly deteriorating?

As Nan Yu entered the ward, nurses and doctors were in a flurry, while the patient’s family wept softly nearby. All the monitors displayed the most ominous data.

Nan Yu swiftly moved to the bedside. In a short while, the patient’s breathing stabilized, and the readings on the instruments gradually returned to normal.

She ignored the family’s eager expressions of gratitude and walked straight out of the room, a small demon clutched by the neck in her hand. This little demon, which had been arrogantly draining the last of the patient’s vital energy just moments before, dared not even struggle now, only whimpering incessantly for mercy.

Nan Yu almost instinctively asked Huo’er if he wanted to eat this human-sucking demon before realizing her mistake, letting out a bitter smile and shaking her head at herself. “Senior, spare me!

Senior, I’ll never dare again!” The little demon begged for its life, tears streaming down its face. Nan Yu raised her hand and recited an incantation.

In less than a second, the demon dissolved into a wisp of smoke, drifting away down the long hospital corridor. —A demon with barely a decade of cultivation trying to bolster its power by stealing human life; giving it a chance to grow further would lead to disaster.

Nan Yu had long internalized the principle that small mercies are often the greatest thieves. However, things like this had been happening with increasing frequency lately.

She calculated that Zhou Ying and the others had been gone for a full month. Nan Yu could feel the restless stirring among the city’s resident demons.

Without Liu Di’s forceful suppression, without Huo’er’s unrestrained chaos, many demons had begun to believe they could finally pursue their own desires. Although she disliked Liu Di’s personality, Nan Yu understood his presence was essential for the Lixin City demons.

His rather arbitrary style of management had carved out a space for the weaker demons to survive. Behaviors like demons eating humans or acquiring wealth from them had become more restrained and hidden.

Once he was gone, chaos seemed imminent. Perhaps she shouldn't have disposed of all the demons causing trouble at the hospital recently; leaving a few alive to spread word of her presence might have been wise.

But doing so would inevitably draw her into a conflict. She had genuinely enjoyed the peace and seclusion of the past few years in Lixin City.

She drew a peachwood sword, its tip freshly snapped off, and gently stroked the mirror-bright blade in her hand. She was a disciple of the Daoist Sect; exorcising demons and subjugating evil was her duty.

After a long pause, Nan Yu put the broken sword away. She shook her head slightly; she was overthinking.

Liu Di had gone after Zhou Ying; he would bring Zhou Ying back… She remembered something else and picked up the phone to dial Gui’er’s mobile number. Gui’er could no longer tolerate the situation and sat up abruptly in bed.

The crashing, cabinet-rattling, and pot-smashing noises from Zhou Ying’s apartment next door, loud enough for her to hear clearly, were still ongoing. “What is that fox doing now!” Gui’er clenched her fists, angrily jumping out of bed, throwing on a robe, and storming toward the opposite door.

Based on her experience, the gossiping neighbors downstairs would probably weave yet another tale about a “couple fighting” by tomorrow, and Gui’er was sick of that. “Damn fox, if you don’t stop making trouble, I’ll…” Gui’er shoved the door open, shouting fiercely, only to be stunned speechless by the sight before her.

She stood there, mouth agape, unable to move. Zhou Ying’s apartment was a scene of utter devastation.

Every cabinet, every drawer, even the sofa cushions had been torn open, the foam stuffing shredded across the floor. A man stood in the center of the room, smashing a chandelier, and when he saw Gui’er enter, he turned and looked at her coldly.

“Who are you? Don’t come closer, or I’ll call the police!” Gui’er backed away slowly.

“Where did Liu Di hide the item in Huo’er’s place?” The man advanced on her, malice clouding his face. “Liu, Liu Di?” Gui’er heard that he wasn't a demon seeking revenge on Huo’er and secretly breathed a sigh of relief.

“Liu Di doesn’t live here; this isn’t his home. You have the wrong place.” “Who doesn’t know Liu Di and Zhou Ying share the same breath!

You must be Zhou Ying’s concubine, right? Tell me, where is the thing!” “I don’t know.

Liu Di didn’t leave anything here…” Seeing the man approaching with murderous intent, Gui’er mentally cursed Liu Di a million times and regretted not having been brave enough that afternoon to ask Nan Yu to stay with her. Only when her back hit the wall and she had nowhere left to retreat did she scream loudly, “I truly don’t know!

Go find Liu Di!” “If Liu Di had something to hide, he’d only leave it here…” The man muttered almost to himself, then scrutinized Gui’er up and down and sneered, “Mountain Spirit, Liu Di’s possessions are useless to you. Keeping his secrets won’t benefit you.” “Why would I keep secrets for him?” Gui’er doubted she would protect any secret of Liu Di’s.

If she knew what the man wanted, or if Liu Di had indeed left anything behind, she would have handed it over long ago. “There is nothing in this house that I don’t know.

Liu Di definitely didn't leave anything here. Go search elsewhere.” The man suddenly grinned wickedly.

“That’s true. It seems getting the item from you will be more likely than finding it through random searching.” He strode forward, seizing Gui’er by the throat, silencing her gasp.

With his other hand, he grabbed a handful of her hair and yanked hard. Tears immediately sprang to Gui’er’s eyes from the pain.

“Listen to me, I’m giving you one day to hand over what Liu Di hid, or else…” Unable to speak, Gui’er could only shake her head vigorously, signaling her inability to comply. Slap.

The man released her hair and struck her hard across the face. A red welt immediately began to swell on her cheek.

“You think anyone is afraid of you, a useless Mountain Spirit? Everyone fears your paramour, and they fear that Bi Fang!

Now that they are gone, do you understand your situation? Hand over what I want obediently, or tomorrow I’ll gouge out one of your eyes, the day after, an ear, and the day after that…” He traced patterns near Gui’er’s face with his hand.

Gui’er glared at him in fury. Slap!

Another heavy slap landed on her face. “Listen up, they aren’t coming back.

Cooperate with me quietly, and perhaps I will take you over in Zhou Ying’s stead.” Gui’er struggled violently, finally managing to squeeze out one sentence: “They will come back!” The man raised his hand as if to strike her again, but he changed his mind midway, gently caressing her cheek instead. “Mountain Spirits possess unparalleled beauty, do they not?

Let me see if Zhou Ying had good taste?” Following the man’s spell, Gui’er slowly reverted to her original form: the stunning beauty of the Mountain Spirit clan manifested without reservation, as if a moonbeam had illuminated the dark hallway. Even the man’s mouth dropped open as he whispered, “Heavens.” He stared at Gui’er for a long moment before snapping back to reality.

“So Zhou Ying was hiding such a treasure. But now, she belongs to me… With him and Liu Di gone, everything is mine…” Saying this, he lunged toward Gui’er.

Gui’er opened her mouth to bite him. The man’s eyes bulged in sudden agony, and though his mouth opened wide, no sound came out.

The grip he had on Gui’er loosened… Gui’er knew she hadn't done it—she hadn't managed to bite him yet—and yet blood was already seeping from his chest. Nan Yu pulled her sword back from the man’s back, and the corpse tumbled to the floor.

Gui’er slumped against the wall, unable to speak a single word, tears streaming down her face. Nan Yu was wearing an ancient-style long robe with her long hair unbound, clearly having scrambled out of bed in a hurry as well.

Behind her, Lin Rui, clad in pajamas printed with a large cartoon pattern, stared wide-eyed at the scene—he was the one who had heard the commotion upstairs and rushed to fetch Nan Yu. “Nan Yu… Nan Yu…” It was only when Nan Yu knelt and enveloped Gui’er in her arms that Gui’er finally let out a sob, repeatedly calling Nan Yu’s name through her tears.

“He said they aren’t coming back… said he isn’t coming back… Waaaah… Zhou Ying isn’t coming back…” Tears glistened in Nan Yu’s eyes, yet she spoke softly, “How could you believe the words of such a person? Zhou Ying will return.

Maybe… maybe he’ll be back tomorrow…” Nan Yu walked toward the door but turned back with lingering concern. Gui’er managed an ‘OK’ gesture.

“Don’t worry, I can take care of myself!” Nan Yu smiled and nodded before leaving. Following the events of that night, Gui’er’s mood remained unstable for several days, so Nan Yu stayed close by her side.

Even Lin Rui, who was barely managing his own situation, had dispatched one of his ghost messengers to her so she could relay news in a critical moment. Gui’er feared a repeat of that night, feared other demons would harass her, and even more, she feared Zhou Ying might truly never return… Even with Nan Yu present, she couldn’t find peace.

So, she spent several days summoning her spirit beasts until she could cradle the furry bodies of the Crimson Leopard and the White Marten in her arms before she finally relaxed. Tears streamed down her cheeks, soaking into the thick fur of the Crimson Leopard and the White Marten.

When she was little, they would always guard her side, but now she was utterly alone in the human city, with no one to rely on… The Crimson Leopard threw back its head and let out a roar. The roar of an adult spirit beast shocked every demon in Lixin City.

Because Gui’er’s spiritual power was insufficient, the Crimson Leopard and the White Marten could not remain in the human realm for long. After they departed, Gui’er became entirely calm.

She rolled up her sleeves and began cleaning the room that had been turned upside down, hauling out the large, damaged furniture, and hanging up her favorite curtains to decorate the windows… “Nan Yu, you should go back to work! What about your patients if you don’t go?” “Little ghost, go back to the fox’s place!

Your master needs you more than I do.” “I’m really fine, believe me, I can take care of myself! Aren’t Nan Yu and the fox surviving here on their own?

I need to learn to rely on myself too!” Gui’er announced this with absolute confidence. Nan Yu was happy to see her regain her spirits.

Moreover, the Crimson Leopard’s furious roar should deter any adverse intentions from Lixin City demons toward Gui’er for the short term. But people are forgetful.

What about after the “short term”? Perhaps by then, Zhou Ying would have returned… Nan Yu wasn't sure whether she or Gui’er had more faith in Zhou Ying’s return, but still—he would come back, wouldn't he…?

Every day, opening the shop, running errands, and returning home—Gui’er’s life had settled back into its routine. She found herself growing accustomed to not cooking, just grabbing a few pastries before meticulously cleaning the entire kitchen. She had to ensure the refrigerator was fully stocked for a feast at a moment’s notice, keep the whole house spotless, and always have fresh flowers on the table…

She didn't want to get used to this existence, but what choice did she have?

“Business, business come right in…” Gui’er finished all her preparations and opened the shop door, muttering under her breath. With Zhou Ying away, earning a living was crucial. Gui’er had always been a spendthrift, and the destruction of household furniture and appliances from that one night meant significant replacements were needed; she couldn't afford to slack off on work.

The bell above the door jingled. Gui’er immediately flashed a professional smile at the incoming customer: “Welcome! What can I help you find today?”

“Boss…”

“Li Lu! Why are you here!” Gui’er jumped up with delight. The recent events had made her almost forget Li Lu. Reflecting, Li Lu had been gone at that training class for nearly two months now. Her appearance hadn't changed much externally, but her face carried a distinct fatigue—perhaps the training was exhausting.

“Quick, sit down. Have some water. How was it, was the training class unprofessional? What did you learn? When do you start performing? You must let me know when that is.”

Gui’er rattled off the questions without giving Li Lu a chance to interject. Li Lu could only smile and listen until Gui’er paused to refill her water. “Boss, can you do me a favor?”

“Anything! Just say the word.”

“Because the training is free, the company worries actors might break their contracts after finishing, so they require us to find a guarantor. You know I’m from out of town; I don’t have many relatives or friends here. Could you possibly…” Li Lu lowered her head, whispering the request with evident embarrassment.

“What’s that about? I’ll vouch for you!” Gui’er slapped her chest robustly, agreeing immediately. “What do I need to do? Deposit money, sign a contract, or…?”

“I just need you to come to the company once with your ID card.”

“No problem, I’ll go with you right now.” Gui’er grabbed her bag and headed out.

Gui’er was buzzing with excitement on the way, chattering endlessly about all her hopes for Li Lu’s future. Li Lu, however, was very quiet, barely speaking during the walk, looking heavy with unspoken thoughts.

“Li Lu, did anyone bully you there? Are the teachers especially harsh?” Gui’er noticed and asked with concern.

“N-no…” Li Lu answered, keeping her eyes downcast.

“But you look so listless, not happy at all, not like the old you… Don’t push yourself too hard, don’t get too exhausted!” Gui’er insisted, her tone deepening.

“Boss, I…” Li Lu started, then stopped herself.

Gui’er wrapped an arm around her shoulder. “No matter what happens, you can always come to me. I will definitely help you!”

“Mm.” Li Lu nodded, pointing towards a building ahead. “Our company is right there; we’re almost there.”

Gui’er looked at the unremarkable structure; it hardly seemed like a place that trained superstars. But appearances could be deceiving, and she resolved to take a good look around once inside to see what a star-making facility looked like.

“It’s on the third floor,” Li Lu said as she led Gui’er toward the narrow staircase.

“Oh, it doesn’t look very spacious,” Gui’er observed, looking around. “How are the facilities here? Do they pay attention in class?”

“They’re fine.”

“Really?” Gui’er nudged a piece of trash on the floor with her foot.

The first and second floors housed other businesses. Only on the third floor did they find a sign reading ‘××× Company.’ An iron gate separated the third floor from the two floors above it. The gate was firmly locked. Two men sat behind it, smoking and chatting lazily. They grinned when they saw Li Lu and Gui’er approaching and unlatched the door, asking, “You’re back. Is this your ‘guarantor’?”

“Yes.” Li Lu nodded. As she started to lead Gui’er inside, she hesitated, biting her lip. “No! Gui’er, let’s go!” She abruptly grabbed Gui’er’s arm and started running downstairs. Gui’er was completely bewildered, asking as she was pulled along, “What’s wrong! What’s wrong? Your guarantor…”

“Don’t ask! Run! They’re chasing us!” Li Lu screamed, almost in tears.

The sound of hurried footsteps thundering down the stairs echoed behind them; it seemed the two men were indeed in pursuit. Though Gui’er didn't understand what was happening, she ran along with Li Lu.

Second floor, first floor…

The inhabitants of the building seemed completely unfazed by the spectacle of a chase; no one intervened. By the time the two women burst onto the street outside, the two men were right behind them. The narrow road had very few pedestrians or vehicles; not even a taxi was in sight. The two women obviously stood no chance against the men and were quickly cornered against a wall.

Gui’er pushed Li Lu behind her and demanded sharply, “What do you want?”

“Come back with us, and you won't suffer unnecessary pain.” The two men made no effort to hide their vicious expressions as they advanced on the two women, reaching out for Gui’er. “This one’s nothing special. Li Lu, you bring back trash like this and still try to run? You’ll pay for it later. If you don’t want me to tell the boss, tonight…”

Thwack! Gui’er landed a punch squarely in his eye, then tripped him with her foot, sending him sprawling to the ground—her skills had been honed daily practicing against Liu Di, Huo’er, and Lin Rui. While she might not be effective against demons, one or two humans were no challenge. The other man had just pulled out a dagger when Gui’er delivered a hard kick to his shin. A sickening thud echoed as the bone cracked, followed by a scream of agony.

Gui’er seized the moment, pulling Li Lu away as they fled.

The pursuers, perhaps having lost them or intimidated by Gui’er’s sudden ferocity, did not follow. They ran several blocks until they leaned against a roadside railing, gasping for breath.

“Hmph! Trying to bully me!” Gui’er struck a heroic pose, dusting off her hands, then looked at Li Lu with concern. “I knew you looked unhappy. You were definitely bullied somewhere. Tell me what happened! Why were those people from the training class acting like thugs?”

Li Lu was trembling violently. Tears streamed down her face, and she choked out, “Gui’er, I’m sorry, I lied to you… At first, I really intended to trick you into that pit of fire… I’m sorry…” She then squatted down, covering her face with her hands, weeping hysterically.

Gui’er panicked, trying to soothe her. “Don’t be like that, just tell me what happened, and I’ll help you! Stop crying, please don’t cry…”

After a long bout of crying, Li Lu managed to say, “They aren’t a skills company at all; they’re scammers… They really did ‘bully’ me… and they forced me to become a ‘hostess’…” Here, she dissolved into sobs again, unable to finish the sentence.

“What!” Gui’er had harbored suspicions about such training centers, but she had only assumed they were scams for money. She never imagined something like this. Enraged, she shouted, “Call the police! Sue them! Those scum! Trash! Worse than Liu Di! Let’s go to the precinct!”

“No, no, no…” Li Lu clung desperately to the railing, refusing to move. “You don’t understand, they took pictures, and they filmed videos… They know my exact address back home. If they really… how will my parents and family ever show their faces? I don't dare disobey them…”

Gui’er gritted her teeth until they clicked. If Zhou Ying and the others were home now, she would immediately tell Huo’er to burn that company and those bastards to ashes. But for now, she had to rely on her own wits. Thinking quickly, she said, “Maybe we can first figure out a way to steal those photos and videos, and then report them.”

“It’s useless. They’re organized crime, connected everywhere… They want every one of us to help them lure girls to their place… Gui’er, do you know, I originally wanted to trick you into that pit of fire? They said if I could lure ten people in, they’d give me the pictures back. But you’ve been so good to me; I couldn’t harm you… I know they’ll never let me go. My life is over… it’s over…”

Hearing that Li Lu had initially intended to trick her, Gui’er was slightly startled. But then she reconsidered: what choice did such a weak woman have when trapped in that situation besides being slaughtered? Moreover, the fact that she ultimately resisted them to save Gui’er moved her deeply. “Don’t cry, don’t be afraid. There’s always a way. I will help you! I know some very capable friends; I’ll go ask them for help!” Gui’er thought that stealing one or two items from humans shouldn't be beyond the capabilities of even Lin Rui’s ghost messengers, Lu Jiu, or Hei Bing. While that wouldn't heal the emotional and physical trauma Li Lu had suffered, at least it could free her from their clutches and allow her to live a safe life again.

“It’s impossible, I’m done for… they won’t let me go… Gui’er, I’m sorry, I won’t drag you into this anymore.” Li Lu stood up crying, pushing Gui’er away, and ran toward the opposite side of the road.

“Li Lu, trust me, I definitely will…”

Before Gui’er’s call could finish, whether due to Li Lu’s distraction or intention—a speeding car collided head-on with her. Li Lu’s body was thrown several meters, landing motionless on the roadside, blood slowly seeping from her form.

“Ah… Li Lu…”

“Nan Yu! Doctor Nan is here! Hurry and call her! You can’t save her! Hurry and call her! Nan Yu, Nan Yu, come save her!” Gui’er frantically shouted Nan Yu’s name outside the emergency room doors, ignoring the medical staff trying to restrain her. Several nurses held her back forcefully from rushing in. One said, “Doctor Nan herself is ill; she took sick leave several days ago! The doctors inside are doing their absolute best to save your friend. If you continue shouting, we’ll have to escort you out!”

“Nan Yu isn’t here…”

Gui’er instantly collapsed onto the floor.

Her clothes were soaked in Li Lu’s blood, and shards of glass were embedded in her hand—fragments of the car windshield that had struck Li Lu. Her own hand was bleeding, but Gui’er felt no pain. She didn't even react when a kind nurse tried to clean the wounds with alcohol. Having held Li Lu, she knew the severity of the injuries far surpassed what human medicine could treat.

No, without Nan Yu, she would die!

Gui’er shoved the nurses aside and ran out of the hospital.

Nan Yu wasn’t at home, wasn’t at her usual training spot, wasn’t at the Taoist temple she frequented… Gui’er searched every possible location to no avail. When she dragged her weary body back to the hospital, she saw Li Lu’s body, covered with a white sheet, being wheeled out of the emergency room.

“Li Lu…”

The nurses offered Gui’er platitudes like, “The dead cannot return,” and “Please accept our condolences,” urging her to complete the necessary paperwork. Gui’er mechanically filled out the forms and paid the fees as directed by the nurses, yet an overwhelming urge to scream rose within her.

“She only said one thing before she died: ‘Even as a ghost, I won’t let them off!’” A nurse cautiously relayed Li Lu’s last words to Gui’er, uncertain if such words would further agitate the distraught woman. But given the deceased’s expression of death without peace, there was clearly a grievance. The kind nurse sighed.

Won’t let them off, even as a ghost!

Gui’er clenched her jaw and walked out.

Nan Yu took a deep breath, looking up at the opponents surging toward her.

“Nosy zombie, get lost!”

Nan Yu held her wooden sword level with her chest, a cold smirk playing on her lips.

Before her stood five or six varied demons, teeth bared and faces grotesque, all focused on her, yet each nursing selfish intentions, none willing to be the first to attack. Behind her lay over a dozen unconscious humans and seven or eight small, huddled, trembling demons. The small demons watched her intently, praying she would secure another victory; Lu Jiu was among them, craning his neck to see.

One demon finally lost patience and lunged forward, only to receive a long, bleeding gash across his arm from the tip of Nan Yu’s sword before retreating behind the others.

Another demon roared, “Attack together! Let’s see how long she can last!” Seeing Nan Yu’s power, the crowd had already plotted to overwhelm her with numbers. Hearing the rallying cry, they all unsheathed their weapons and surrounded her.

Nan Yu engaged them in the fray, yet a bitter sense of irony washed over her. She hadn't expected this matter to devolve into such a chaotic farce.

A few days earlier, two demons had intended to leave Lixin City. The comings and goings of demons were usually unremarkable, and no one would pry. However, these two brothers, taking advantage of Liu Di’s absence, had aggressively captured a group of humans and weaker demons, boasting they would eat them along the road. Although the situation among Lixin City’s demons had been unstable recently, since they were leaving, no one opposed their actions. But one of the captured demons happened to be Lu Jiu. In his panic, Lu Jiu’s uncle, Lu Wei Ma, sought help from Nan Yu. Nan Yu, who had always protected humans, naturally could not stand by while such arrogance ran rampant. She intercepted the brothers just as they were about to depart.

Nan Yu usually kept a low profile and rarely interacted with other demons. Few in Lixin City knew of this thousand-year-old zombie, and even fewer knew her true strength. When she stepped in to rescue the captives, the demon brothers certainly weren't afraid of her, leading to an inevitable confrontation. With Nan Yu’s power, she effortlessly subdued her opponents in a short time. However, the fight alerted other demons.

With both Liu Di and Zhou Ying having been absent from Lixin City for many days, some demons began boldly speculating that they might not return. Thus, the city, once ruled by Liu Di and dominated by Huo’er, started to shift. Many demons schemed to replace Liu Di and become the "Demon Head" of Lixin City.

When everyone aimed to be the boss, conflict was inevitable. In this climate, any demon with slightly higher cultivation was inevitably drawn into the turmoil. Even if they held no personal ambition, they would still be viewed with suspicion. If Liu Di’s lingering prestige hadn’t kept most demons cautious, Lixin City would have descended into complete anarchy long ago.

Nan Yu’s strength naturally made her the primary target for those ambitious demons.

Even though her presence in Lixin City was hidden, some demons knew her background. Those who knew her usually didn't provoke her, but in this current climate of paranoia, her initial move was immediately interpreted by those who had been monitoring her as a preemptive strike. Armed with the mindset of striking first, before Nan Yu could release the captured humans and demons, she was surrounded by another group of demons, inexplicably embroiled in yet another major battle.

By the time Nan Yu repelled this wave of enemies one by one, rumors that the zombie intended to usurp Liu Di had spread throughout Lixin City. Those ambitious demons, hoping to capitalize on her consecutive fights, swarmed her. Consequently, Nan Yu didn't even get a moment to catch her breath, enduring days and nights alone in a desperate struggle.

Amidst the siege of enemies, Nan Yu glanced at several onlookers not far away. Whether they disdained ganging up on her or planned to wait until Nan Yu was exhausted from fighting to gain a greater advantage, they showed no intention of joining the fray for the moment. However, there was one person Nan Yu truly cared about—the middle-aged man sitting on the ground, hugging his knees. His face was utterly expressionless as he repeatedly toyed with a short, glinting dagger in his hand, pausing occasionally to look up at the combat.

If Nan Yu wasn't mistaken, this man was Pao Xiao, the only demon in Lixin City who had ever defeated Liu Di through sheer martial power. Although he ultimately lost to Liu Di’s cunning schemes and was forced to make a pact, his strength was not to be underestimated by anyone in Lixin City.

Nan Yu let out a soft sigh.

She knew Pao Xiao would eventually challenge her, but she never expected it to happen under these circumstances—the demon she had killed that night to save Gui’er was Pao Xiao’s only son, a half-breed born to a human woman.

Nan Yu was not in the habit of showing mercy to enemies. After the demons besieging her ended with two dead and two injured, she turned back toward the remaining demons, quietly waiting for the next opponent to step forward. She hadn't fought so continuously in ages; it wasn't her body, but her spirit that felt weary. In that instant, she realized how vital Liu Di’s presence, whose existence she usually disliked, had been. Her ability to live peacefully for so many years was largely due to Liu Di maintaining order in Lixin City.

Nan Yu sharply pulled her thoughts away from Liu Di and toward Zhou Ying, then methodically surveyed the demons before her.

The others remained still, only Pao Xiao stepped forward.

“Don’t look at them; they are just witnesses I summoned. You killed my son. Do you dare fight me now!” His voice carried no emotion, yet every word landed heavily. “If this were a fair duel, victory and defeat decided by fate, and life and death by providence, I, his father, wouldn't interfere. But you attacked him from behind!”

Nan Yu replied calmly, “If he hadn't been greedy for beauty and attempted to use force to intimidate a woman, I certainly wouldn't have attacked him from behind.”

Pao Xiao paused, understanding his son’s nature. He knew his son was capable of the actions Nan Yu described. Yet, despite that, the boy was his only and most cherished child. He shook his head and raised his dagger. “Here, in front of everyone, I demand a fair fight with you.”

Nan Yu offered a faint, wry smile. A formal challenge, with witnesses present to observe the duel—the arrangement reminded her of the feuds between various sects in the past. Such a serious demon was rare. However, she had no reason to refuse. She spoke with equal composure: “Nan Yu of Xuantong Temple asks for your forbearance.”

Gui’er looked in the mirror again, adding an uneven layer of foundation and darkening her eyeshadow slightly, but the effect was minimal. The woman in the mirror remained breathtakingly beautiful. She sighed and tossed the cosmetics back onto the table.

In truth, not only did she know few spells, but the human form she assumed was her only one. Mountain Spirits are a race whose power grows only by breathing with the forest; since Gui’er had left the mountains too early and stayed away too long, her magic remained at a childlike level. In the forest, it might be manageable, but in the city, her strength was pitifully weak.

Unable to borrow Zhou Ying’s power or summon spiritual beasts, and inexplicably unable to locate Nan Yu, Lin Rui, or Lu Jiu, Gui’er resolved to rely on no one but herself to avenge Li Lu.

First were the photos and videos; Gui’er intended to find and destroy them, ensuring Li Lu’s departure was blameless.

Next were the humans who had hurt Li Lu, who had damaged the dreams of so many innocent girls. Gui’er clenched her fist, looking at her reflection. Yes, she was a demon; it was the natural order for demons to consume humans!

Guier shot one last look in the mirror before stepping out. This appearance had one advantage: it would undoubtedly spur humans into immediate action against her.

Nan Yu and Pao Xiao’s weapons met, plunging them into a deadlock.

They had already exchanged hundreds of blows, sweat streaming down their faces, now relying purely on their magical prowess to counter each other. For Nan Yu, it had been many years since such an intense fight; for Pao Xiao, he never imagined that there was another person in Lixin City—other than Liu Di—who possessed power equal to his—no, whose raw magical power surpassed Liu Di’s. Thus, as the fight raged on, it was less about settling old scores and more about the sheer will to win, a genuine desire to determine who was superior.

They stared intently into each other’s eyes, locked in an unmoving standoff.

A bolt of lightning shot toward Nan Yu’s back, just as a long spear pierced directly into Du She’s chest.

Pao Xiao violently yanked Nan Yu forward, and Nan Yu swung her sword to parry the spear aimed at Pao Xiao, while Pao Xiao used his dagger to block the spell attacking Nan Yu. Their figures flickered, instantly moving back-to-back, facing the encircling enemies.

Their attackers were precisely the demons Pao Xiao had summoned as ‘witnesses’ for the duel. Perhaps Pao Xiao considered them trustworthy friends, but they too harbored ambitions to supplant Liu Di. Eliminating both Pao Xiao and Nan Yu simultaneously would be an ideal outcome for them.

“You are both exhausted, how much longer can you hold out? For the sake of your past friendship, hand over your inner cores, leave Lixin City, and we will spare your lives!”

Pao Xiao seemed not to have heard his former friends’ ‘good intentions,’ remaining motionless. After a moment, when he saw the demons slowly beginning to press forward, he spoke in his characteristically emotionless voice: “Show no mercy. Kill!” Nan Yu knew he wasn’t instructing her, but speaking to himself, as every opponent was a demon he had once called a ‘friend.’ However, after the struggle, neither he nor Nan Yu had much strength left to ponder further; simply protecting themselves was already arduous enough.

The moment Guier registered at that training center, the gazes of those present locked onto her like a vise. Before noon arrived, they manufactured an excuse to take her to the fourth floor, into an office rumored to belong to the general manager.

Inside the office sat a middle-aged man surrounded by subordinates. He listened to the report from the person who brought Guier in, raising his eyes with a critical, appraising look. But in the very next second, his gaze fixed, unable to move from Guier’s face, and he took a step toward her, smiling, “A new trainee? What’s your name?”

“Li Lu.”

“Li Lu?” The name seemed vaguely familiar, but his mind was entirely captivated by Guier’s beauty, completely pushing aside the memory of the girl from a few days ago. He urgently shooed all his subordinates out of the room; he needed to ‘talk’ to this woman alone.

Although his ruthlessness was usually met with his subordinates’ “respect,” those who faced Guier still yearned for a ‘share of the spoils.’ It took a good while before they reluctantly shuffled out one by one.

“Your looks are exceptional. With proper packaging and the right opportunity, you could become famous overnight.” He knew what the girls who called here wanted, so he spoke the usual platitudes, “Come, let me examine your figure…” As he spoke, he reached toward Guier’s waist.

Something cold pressed against his forehead.

Guier held a small pistol in her hand, looking at him coldly.

The boss clearly understood his precarious situation, stammering, “W-what are you doing?” Police? A rival gang? His mind began calculating rapidly. He didn’t fear the police; they wouldn't dare fire a real shot upon arrival, and besides, he had connections upstairs who could smooth things over. But if it was a rival gang, that would be troublesome. He knew precisely how many enemies he had made over the years, yet he hadn’t heard of any organization employing such a stunning operative. A woman this beautiful—why would she choose to be a hired gun?

“You scum! You’re the one who killed Li Lu!” Guier kicked him hard. Because her gun was aimed at his head, he dared not move—regardless, Liu Di had left behind something useful. This gun, small and exquisitely designed, was something Liu Di had supposedly picked up casually after inadvertently dispatching some assassin-type figure, and now Guier had put it to use.

“Where are the photos and videotapes?” Guier asked through clenched teeth.

“Photos?”

“The photos you took to harm people! Hand them over, or I’ll shoot!”

He was beginning to realize this woman was neither police nor sent by rivals. He had encountered people seeking revenge for the women he controlled before, but this was the first time someone had shown up with a gun. Thinking of this, he let out a sigh of relief. He couldn’t believe a delicate woman like Guier could be his match—even with a gun. This woman was extraordinarily beautiful; he had to make good use of her. She wanted those photos so badly; later, he would invite her to take all the pictures she wanted herself.

He feigned terror, pointing toward the door: “Th-they’re in the archives room next door… I’ll send someone to fetch them…”

Guier considered this, then aimed the gun at his head: “You’re coming with me to get them! No tricks!” Guier escorted him out of the office with the gun trained on his head. The hallway immediately erupted into chaos, but under the threat of the handgun, no one dared rush forward to rescue their boss. The boss ordered his subordinates to open a room secured with an iron door, and Guier directed him toward it.

Before they even reached the door, the sounds emanating from inside made Guier frown. When she clearly saw the scene within, she could not bear to look and shut her eyes: in the small room, nearly ten naked women were confined, while three men were among them. One man was brazenly violating them, and the other two were operating a camera and a video recorder, shifting angles to capture the proceedings.

In the moment Guier was stunned by the sight, the boss dodged the muzzle of her gun. A man behind him swung an iron chain, striking Guier’s wrist, and the pistol flew out of her grasp.

The pistol skittered into the room, landing near the feet of one of the women. She glanced at it, seemingly about to pick it up, but was cursed at by a man to “Scram!” and meekly shrank back into a corner. The gun was then seized by that man, who carefully presented it to the boss with both hands.

“Ha… ha…” The boss erupted in a string of harsh laughter, advancing on Guier. “Didn’t you want photos? Come on, big daddy will give you a satisfying shoot!” The surrounding men joined in with loud laughter.

Guier clutched her wrist, glaring at them in fury.

The boss grabbed Guier’s shoulder and shoved her into the cluster of women. “Want to be a star! How many stars are there in the world for you to become? I’ll teach you what reality is. Learn to earn money obediently from now on, stop dreaming those impractical dreams. It’s for your own good.” He viewed this entire group of women as mere fish on a slab. He handed the gun to a subordinate and lunged at Guier, while the other men responded to his cue, rushing toward the other women. Cries of pleading and weeping immediately filled the room once more.

A howl rang out, and the boss knelt down, clutching his lower abdomen.

The force of Guier’s kick, fueled by her rage, was certainly not light: “What’s wrong with girls dreaming? Girls have the right to dream! Scum like you will never understand how beautiful the dreams of young women are. Hearing the word ‘dream’ from your mouths is an insult! Li Lu said she wouldn't forgive you even as a ghost! People like you deserve to die. You don't even deserve to be food! You only deserve to be thrown into the garbage heap!” Guier shouted furiously, snatching the video camera at hand and smashing it repeatedly onto the boss’s head.

Two men rushed forward to restrain her, but she flung them aside in a few quick moves. The boss scrambled to his feet, wrapping his arms around her neck from behind, only to hear another sharp cry—he had been violently kicked hard in the groin by Guier.

Unable to suppress the agony in his body and the fury in his heart, the boss snatched the gun from a subordinate and fired a shot toward Guier.

Nan Yu tested her arm. Although severely injured, no bones were broken, and it was still usable. A long gash across her shoulder had torn the flesh open, revealing bone, but there was no blood flowing. A few paces away, Pao Xiao sat on the ground, busy bandaging a deep wound around his waist.

The floor was littered with the corpses of demons, along with two unlucky humans who had been knocked unconscious by stray spells and couldn't escape the fighting’s collateral damage.

Nan Yu took a breath and walked over to release the captured lesser demons, ordering them to hurry the humans away. She and Pao Xiao were utterly drained; if another wave of enemies arrived, they wouldn't even be able to protect themselves, let alone these demons and humans.

Pao Xiao struggled to stand and called out to Nan Yu from a distance, “The feud between you and me is settled today.”

Nan Yu smiled faintly and nodded.

“Although I dislike the Earth Wolf, Lixin City is better off with him here,” Pao Xiao suddenly paused just before disappearing.

“You mean…”

“He might return. I know he has a compelling reason to come back.” After saying this, Pao Xiao’s figure vanished into the air.

“Liu Di… has a compelling reason to return…” Nan Yu didn't know what that reason was, but what about Zhou Ying? Did Lixin City hold a reason compelling enough for him to return? If not, would he never come back…

Nan Yu turned her head, secretly wiping away a falling tear.

Finally, she leaned on the trees and slowly walked out of the woods. She had been so weary for a long time, too exhausted even to muster the strength to use magic, only wanting to find a place to weep her heart out…

“Guier! Guier!” Nan Yu shouted, rushing through the window of the company building. After returning home, she had seen Guier’s message and knew what Guier planned to do alone, causing her whole body to tremble. She knew Guier’s capabilities well, and Zhou Ying’s only instruction before leaving was to take good care of Guier. If Guier…

“Bang! Bang!”

Nan Yu rushed toward the room where the loud noises originated: “Guier! Are you in there?”

The room was a complete wreck. More than a dozen men lay scattered on the floor, and a few women were huddled in the corner, too terrified to even attempt escape. Not a single intact item could be found in the entire space. Guier was holding half a window sash, preparing to smash it down onto a man groaning on the floor. Hearing Nan Yu’s shouts, she paused her action. Her own body was covered in blood; the gunshot wounds on her shoulder and leg were gory messes, and her face was streaked with tears. Looking up at Nan Yu who had entered, she exclaimed in shock: “Nan Yu, you’re hurt?”

“You’re the one who’s hurt, Guier! How is it? How?”

“Hurt…” Guier touched her shoulder. In her anger and frenzy, she had forgotten her wounds until the piercing pain hit her now. “Li Lu is dead… they killed Li Lu…” She sank to the floor, covering her mouth and sobbing. She had managed to defeat the group through sheer force, but now, seeing Nan Yu, she didn’t even have the strength to stand, crying out loudly: “I’m so useless, I couldn’t save Li Lu. Without you, I can’t do anything… Zhou Ying, Zhou Ying…”

Nan Yu embraced her with both arms. “You did wonderfully. This is your own strength; you didn’t rely on anyone…”

“Nan Yu…” Guier held Nan Yu tighter, weeping even more miserably. “Nan Yu… what if Zhou Ying doesn’t come back… what if he never returns?”

“He will…” Nan Yu couldn’t finish the sentence, holding Guier tightly as tears streamed down her own face as well.

Nan Yu and Guier supported each other out of the alley. Behind them, the street was beginning to stir, and a building was engulfed in flames. The sound of fire engines approached from a distance. Guier turned back for one last look, and Nan Yu whispered, “Don’t worry, nothing will be left.”

“Then their nightmare will finally end,” Guier finally managed a slight smile. Nan Yu’s current power couldn’t erase all the memories of the tragic experience from those women’s minds; she could only lead them away from there, ensuring they forgot the existence of Nan Yu and Guier.

“Perhaps one day they will forget it all and reclaim their dreams.”

“Mm.”

The two walked in silence for a while. Guier suddenly asked, “Nan Yu, can you teach me magic?”

“Me?” Nan Yu was slightly surprised. Her magic wasn't well-suited for demons to cultivate; Guier should have known this perfectly well.

“If I don’t return to the forest, my inherent power will never advance. Perhaps I can learn human magic instead!”

Nan Yu nodded. “That makes sense. As long as you are willing to learn, of course, I will teach you.”

“I don’t want to rely on others whenever trouble arises again. I want to be as formidable as you, Nan Yu,” Guier’s tone was filled with admiration.

“Like me… I wish I could live the life you have,” Nan Yu’s voice was so faint that even Guier beside her couldn’t hear it.

“Nan Yu, what if Zhou Ying doesn’t come back?”

“I don’t know… I will wait for him to return.”

“Wait forever?”

“Yes.”

“What if he never comes back?”

“I will wait.”

Guier bit her lip. She had hoped to get some advice from Nan Yu, but Nan Yu… “No, I won’t wait here! I’m going to look for him!”

“Look for him?”

“No matter where he is, to the ends of the earth, I will find him!” Guier declared, clenching her fist.

“But Guier…”

“I know it’s dangerous, that’s why I need to learn magic from you! Once I become strong enough, I’ll go find him! If you stay here waiting for him, I’ll bring him to you!” Guier’s voice was finally filled with renewed vigor as she spoke loudly, “If he doesn’t come back, I will go find him!”

Guier swung her shovel while chanting under her breath, pointing her finger, and a fireball flew out. However, instead of accurately hitting the stove, it bounced and headed toward Nan Yu. Nan Yu quickly clapped her hands together and extinguished it.

“Sigh, failed again,” Guier sighed.

“Don’t rush, take it slow,” Nan Yu comforted patiently.

“Watch me! Again: Fire!” Guier shouted, and another fireball flew from her fingertip.

It had been nearly three months since Liu Di and Zhou Ying left Lixin City. After the initial chaos, the demons of Lixin City seemed to gradually establish a new order. A few relatively powerful demons claimed their own territories, and the other demons survived according to these zones. Everything, on the surface at least, had returned to peace, and the conviction in everyone’s hearts solidified: Zhou Ying and Liu Di would not return again.

During these days, besides running her shop and doing chores, Guier spent the rest of her time learning magic from Nan Yu. Under Nan Yu’s careful guidance, she finally made slight progress, but the spells she learned were never wielded with ease. This current fireball bounced erratically and flew straight toward Guier herself.

Guier swept her iron shovel, batting the fireball away. Immediately followed by her realization, “Oh no!” the fireball whistled into the living room. With a soft thump, the smell of charring filled the air, and smoke mixed with sparks drifted in. Guier sighed, “It’s ruined, the new sofa I just bought…”

“Why hit me!” A deliberately aggrieved voice suddenly came from the living room.

“Don’t look at me, it wasn't me! My fire wouldn't just burn a sofa! It would burn you along with it!” Another voice asserted loudly and righteously.

Guier and Nan Yu exchanged a look of astonishment and rushed out of the kitchen together.

In the living room, Liu Di was struggling to fix his hairstyle in front of a mirror—two hairs on his temple were singed, causing him great distress. Huo’er zipped back and forth, criticizing the fire for not being large enough, not being fierce or sustained enough—it simply didn't resemble a fire that should come from Huo’er’s family. Meanwhile, beside the burning sofa, a figure was carefully pressing out the small flames one by one.

“Zhou Ying…”

“Guier, Nan Yu, did you miss me!” Liu Di flung his arms open, trying to embrace them both at once. Huo’er kicked him away from behind, then zipped over, shouting: “Get away, I’m starving! Is dinner ready, Guier! Nan Yu, have you saved any demons for me lately?”

“Zhou Ying…” Nan Yu and Guier didn’t shift their gaze.

Zhou Ying put down the sofa, turned around, “We’re back.”

Nan Yu nodded, a smile appearing on her face.

Guier stared at him for a long time, finally remembering something: “Ah, have you eaten? It’ll be ready soon!”

“Food! Food! Starving!” Liu Di and Huo’er shouted in unison and rushed into the kitchen.

Zhou Ying looked at Nan Yu, then at Guier, and a smile surfaced on his face as well. “Nan Yu, Guier, I’ve returned.”