The atmosphere in the area had undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding its once-dull and lifeless aura. It now exuded a vibrant energy that echoed the newfound vitality coursing through the village since the curse's eradication. The sensation was akin to the relief one feels when a persistent headache, tormenting them for thousands of years, finally dissipates into nothingness.
With the restoration of their ability to cultivate, the villagers eagerly embraced the wonders of cultivation once more. Like a long-suppressed desire bursting forth, they threw themselves into their training, quickly advancing to the Nascent Profound Realm.
However, it was Feng Caiyun and Feng Baichuan's astonishing progress that left the village in awe. They had consumed two of Yun Che's special pills—the same pills that had catalyzed their children's transformation. One pill before Yun Che embarked on his trial and another upon his triumphant return. Fueled by the Phoenix's revitalized energy, they had effortlessly ascended to the True Profound Realm. The sight left the villagers astounded and inspired.
The village, in particular, appeared to have gained a new lease on life. Freed from the relentless curse, their spirits soared, and the once-dull place had transformed into a hub of celebration. Gratitude radiated from warm smiles and lively chatter that filled the air.
Feng Baichuan, alongside his wife, couldn't express their gratitude enough, bowing their heads repeatedly in Yun Che's presence. Despite his incredible abilities, Yun Che maintained his modesty, insisting that he was merely an ordinary mortal, albeit an exceptional one.
The bittersweet moment came when Feng Caiyun posed the inevitable question. "Then, Yun Che, are you leaving this place? Now that your mission is complete?" Her voice carried a tinge of sadness, mirrored by the twins and their father.
Yun Che's response, though tinged with sorrow, was resolute. "I believe I am. All of us. In three days' time, we will confront the source of the attacks and finally make our way to the Blue Wind Imperial City." He acknowledged the attachment they had formed during his stay but recognized that his duty called him onward. The quest was over, but the story had to continue.
"I see," Feng Caiyun nodded, her expression a mix of understanding and sadness, as if she were a mother reluctantly letting her son embark on a journey far from home.
However, the scene took an unexpected turn as little Feng Xian'er, with teary eyes, clung to Yun Che and asked the million-dollar question, "Big brother... sniff* Why do you and big sisters have to leave?"
Yun Che knelt down to her level, offering a tender smile. "We have to leave because it's our journey, Xian'er," he replied, aware that the little girl wouldn't comprehend the complexities of his true answer.
Her eyes still glistening with unshed tears, Xian'er implored, "Promise you'll visit us."
Feng Zu'er, standing nearby, didn't share his sister's melancholy. Instead, he bravely declared, "Big bro, I promised to become a hero when you meet me again." His determination to follow in Yun Che's footsteps was evident, hinting at the potential for greatness in this young boy. One day, he and his sister might become renowned figures in the Profound Sky Continent.
Yun Che tousled Zu'er's hair affectionately and encouraged, "Then, be sure to become a hero, little bro."
Before anyone could fully digest Zu'er's declaration, Xian'er chimed in with her own heartfelt pledge, leaving everyone—including her parents—utterly shocked. "If Zu'er becomes a hero, then Xian'er will be big brother's wife."
Zu'er's excitement couldn't be contained as he exclaimed, "Then, if Xian'er marries big bro, he'll become my big bro for real?! Then, we can be this world's heroes together, big bro!"
Feng Caiyun couldn't help but smirk, a mischievous glint in her eye as she envisioned Yun Che becoming her son-in-law. "Oh my~~" she teased, fully embracing the idea.
Retsu, observing this exchange, wore a gentle smile. While her brother aspired to be a hero, she had anticipated Feng Xian'er's heartfelt wish. It stirred a faint tinge of jealousy within her, which she couldn't help but acknowledge. Cang Yue found herself in a similar boat, grappling with emotions she wasn't prepared to confront. Meanwhile, Little Fairy was left utterly astonished by Xian'er's candor.
Cang Yue, teeth gritted in frustration, wished she could express herself as openly as Xian'er. She was envious of the girl's ability to wear her heart on her sleeve.
In response to this unexpected proposal, Little Fairy quickly ushered Feng Xian'er to the side, adopting a protective stance. She leaned in and, in a hushed tone, began what seemed like a series of warnings, bordering on character assassination. Little Fairy aimed to protect Xian'er's innocence from Yun Che, but it was hard to ignore the hint of jealousy that colored her words. She couldn't fathom how the once-shy girl she met had now openly declared her intention to marry Yun Che. Even though Xian'er was just a child, her promise carried a weight that couldn't be dismissed lightly. "Xian'er, this man is a bad man. Are you sure you want to be his wife?"
Xian'er, unfazed by Little Fairy's warnings, responded with unshakable innocence. "Hnn... Xian'er wants to marry big brother. He is a good man, just like father."
Little Fairy persisted, attempting to dissuade the determined young girl. "Xian'er... he is really a bad man. I don't want you to be a bad girl."
However, Xian'er remained resolute in her desire. "Xian'er wants to marry big brother. Big sister Retsu and big sister Yue really like him. They want to be his wife too. But, big sister, you'll be his wife as well, right? Xian'er can be your little sister."
This heartfelt declaration turned the surrounding atmosphere into a whirlwind of emotions. Retsu blushed, her fingers twiddling nervously, while Cang Yue couldn't deny the embarrassment that painted her cheeks. It was evident to everyone that they shared Xian'er's feelings for Yun Che.
Before Yun Che could intervene, a pile of snow came crashing down upon him, silencing him and covering him in a cold, fluffy layer.
"Xian'er! Where did you learn such things?" Little Fairy exclaimed, her shock still palpable.
Xian'er, completely unphased, replied with utmost innocence, "The sisters in the village said so."
Little Fairy, her protective instincts in full swing, issued a stern decree. "Don't spend time with them anymore. Those village girls will start teaching you strange things."
Feng Caiyun, seizing the opportunity to tease Yun Che, couldn't resist. "Oh my~~ Maybe this mother should join in as well, alongside little Xian'er. Welcoming a son-in-law in the future might be fun, right, husband?"
Her husband, clearly embarrassed by the teasing, pleaded, "Caiyun... Please."
But she only chuckled mischievously, making it clear that her teasing wasn't about to stop anytime soon.
With the clan now brimming with newfound hope and a sense of purpose as True Profound Realm warriors, Yun Che decided to contribute further by distributing his Mark II pills among the villagers. He entrusted this vital task to Feng Baichuan, who would ensure the pills reached every member of the clan. These miraculous pills promised to elevate their strength, allowing many to reach the Earth Profound Realm and propelling the Feng family into the ranks of the Sky Profound Realm. It was Yun Che's way of repaying the clan for their hospitality during his stay and for granting him the opportunity to undertake the trial.
As the morning sun bathed the clan's residence in golden light, Yun Che and Retsu, the culinary maestros, prepared a scrumptious breakfast for the Feng family. The aroma of their cooking wafted through the air, a familiar and comforting scent that brought smiles to the faces of the clan members. They had sorely missed Yun Che's culinary delights during his month-long absence.
Once breakfast was ready, Yun Che led the girls to the vicinity of the phoenix ruins, their determination steeled for the challenges that lay ahead.
Meanwhile, the village chief and the other residents were deeply engrossed in their martial arts training. Their dedication was evident, driven by the knowledge that they needed to be prepared for the inevitable next hollow invasion. With their newfound strength and the expected return of the Ten Thousand Beast Mountain Range, they planned to turn this area into their hunting ground, asserting their dominance over any threats that dared to approach.
====================
As for their Haki training, Yun Che had a clear plan in mind. He anticipated that Retsu might grasp the concept almost instantly, thanks to her unique innate abilities. However, for Cang Yue and Little Fairy, he knew it would be a different story. Training them in the ways of Haki would require time, effort, and a more traditional approach.
In the aftermath of their battle against the Menos and the trial he undertook a month ago, Yun Che had unlocked the power of his Haki, which was a fusion of his Sharingan abilities and something far more potent. He had explored the intricacies of this evolved Haki, particularly its Observation Instinct. This extraordinary skill allowed him to dodge attacks almost instinctively, without the need for conscious thought. It went beyond conventional Observation Haki, enabling him to evade attacks that were otherwise unpredictable. It was akin to a finely tuned sixth sense that granted him unparalleled agility and precision in combat.
His Spiritual Enhancement, another facet of his evolved Haki, was distinct from regular Busoshoku Haki. It amplified his attack and defense capabilities to astounding levels. He could channel his Spirit Force into weapons, armor, or even people, enhancing their properties significantly. The catch was that this enhancement was only maintained as long as he sustained a spiritual link. Yun Che had even used this ability to cast the powerful Dual Getsuga Tenshou technique, showcasing its sheer versatility.
Yun Che had also renamed his Will of the Evil Conqueror to Haoshoku No Haki, to distinguish it from the other Haki types. This Haki allowed him to dominate the willpower of those at or below his cultivation realm. If faced with opponents of superior willpower, he could directly assault their souls, inducing fear and causing them to falter, regardless of their mental fortitude. Haoshoku No Haki went beyond simply overwhelming weaker wills; it could penetrate even the most resolute minds.
However, Yun Che couldn't teach his companions the advanced, evolved versions of Haki. Instead, he focused on instructing them in the basics of ordinary Haki, which would be a crucial asset in their upcoming battle against the formidable foes lurking in the Ten Thousand Beast Mountain Range.
Yun Che led the girls to a serene plain near the phoenix ruins and had them sit down, their curiosity about Haki palpable. Throughout the morning, they had bombarded him with questions about this mysterious power, but he had deftly evaded answering, teasing them that it was going to be a surprise. However, Cang Yue's inquisitiveness finally got the best of her, and she couldn't resist asking again.
"Yun Che? What is Haki?" Cang Yue's question hung in the air.
Yun Che sighed, realizing that he couldn't put off their curiosity any longer. "Haki," he began, "is a mysterious power that resides within all living things, be they human or beast. The key to Haki lies in one's ability to awaken it."
Little Fairy, who had traveled extensively and studied various arts, found herself utterly intrigued by this concept of Haki. It seemed unlike anything she had encountered before. "How did you come to learn about this, you rascal?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
"In the Dead Spirit Realm, where we come from, we use Haki regularly," Yun Che replied vaguely, not wanting to divulge the true source of his knowledge. "As for Retsu here, she actually awakened her Haki a long time ago, though she might not have been aware of it."
Retsu's eyes widened in surprise. "I did?"
"Yes, you did," Yun Che affirmed. "Today, we're going to refresh your understanding of these abilities. Perhaps you've relied on your other formidable powers and haven't fully recognized your Haki potential."
He then delved deeper into the topic. "Now, back to the story. While all living things possess the potential to use Haki, people on this continent tend to focus on cultivating profound energy, practicing emotion-sealing arts, and various other disciplines. These practices inadvertently block the flow of their willpower, essentially sealing their Haki forever."
Cang Yue couldn't help but be curious about one specific aspect. "Willpower?"
"Haki," Yun Che continued, "is the tangible manifestation of your willpower and spirit. When you block or seal your emotions, you inadvertently suppress your willpower as well. This is why many people on this continent lose the ability to use Haki over time. It's best to awaken Haki before reaching the Elementary Profound Realm."
As Yun Che explained the connection between Haki and one's willpower, both Cang Yue and Little Fairy exchanged glances filled with uncertainty. "So, if our cultivation has already reached this stage," Little Fairy questioned, "does that mean we're no longer suited to cultivate Haki?"
Yun Che shook his head. "I didn't say it's impossible. Little Fairy, your Frozen Cloud Arts cultivate the Ice Heart, which seals your emotions, correct?"
Little Fairy replied, "Yes, that's correct. But I can no longer cultivate it. The Ice Heart shattered during our first encounter."
Cang Yue, intrigued and a bit perplexed, interjected, "Shattered? How is that even possible? Frozen Cloud Asgard's Ice Hearts are renowned for being unbreakable."
With a heavy sigh, Little Fairy admitted, "I wish I knew. But if I'm being honest, it shattered in a rather embarrassing way. I'd rather not go into the details."
Yun Che couldn't help but chuckle at the mysterious circumstances surrounding the Ice Heart's shattering, though he refrained from pressing for further information. Instead, he returned to the topic of Haki. "Regardless of the past, I believe you both still have the potential to awaken Haki. We just need to find a way to unlock it."
As Yun Che spoke about the shattered Ice Heart and the path it had opened for them to cultivate Haki, he couldn't help but remember his promise to teach Qingyue about it once they resolved their issues.
"But then again, Little Fairy," Yun Che continued, "the absence of your Ice Heart actually makes things much easier. Without it, I can help you and Cang Yue trigger your Haki using my spiritual energy. However, you must be aware that awakening Haki can be challenging. It might become difficult to control initially, potentially even posing a threat to your mind and body. So, I hope both of you are mentally prepared."
Their determination showed clearly as both Cang Yue and Little Fairy assured him they were ready for the challenge.
"Good," Yun Che said with a reassuring smile. "You need to understand that Haki is divided into three types. The first is Kenbunshoku No Haki, also known as Observation Haki. With this Haki, you merge your consciousness with your surroundings. You'll be able to sense people's and beasts' cultivations and energy, even if they're masking their aura. Essentially, you can detect any cultivation. Observation Haki also grants you the ability to foresee your opponent's moves before they reach you, allowing you to react accordingly. You can even sense their presence even with your eyes closed."
Little Fairy suddenly realized how Yun Che had effortlessly dodged her attacks during their first encounter. "So, that's how you managed to avoid all my moves back then."
Yun Che nodded in confirmation. "Exactly. The second type is Busoshoku No Haki, or Armament Haki. This form enables you to transform your willpower into protective armor on different parts of your body or enhance your attacks. Armament Haki allows you to touch and harm intangible opponents, making them vulnerable to your attacks. Some opponents may cultivate arts that transform their bodies into elemental or even ghostly forms to avoid harm, but Armament Haki can still affect and harm them. You can even imbue it into weapons, making them as effective as cutting through butter."
Cang Yue posed an intriguing question. "So, can we use this Haki to defeat ghosts?"
Little Fairy followed up with her own query. "And can it cut through bodies made of snow and ice?"
Yun Che paused for a moment, contemplating their questions. "Well, it's not that simple. The effectiveness of Armament Haki depends on the user's proficiency and the opponent's strength and type. While it can potentially affect ghosts or bodies made of ice, it may not be as straightforward as cutting through regular materials. The power of Armament Haki varies from person to person."
Yun Che nodded before gracefully removing his white coat, revealing his well-built body and the rippling muscles beneath. The three girls couldn't help but blush slightly at the sight. Yun Che raised his right fist toward them, and they watched in amazement as his arm slowly transformed into a pure, shiny black. Their eyes widened at the remarkable sight.
"This is what I meant by Armament Haki," Yun Che explained. "It can make your body as hard as steel, rendering you nearly invulnerable to most attacks. However, I'm quite certain none of you would want your skin to turn as black as coal."
The girls shivered at the thought but understood that sometimes they might need to use this power to protect themselves. Yun Che continued, "You can also channel Armament Haki into your weapons. When imbued with Haki, your weapons become similar to your body armor, allowing you to harm intangible beings with your sword."
To illustrate his point, Yun Che picked up a branch from the ground and imbued it with Haki. The branch gradually turned into a shiny black color, leaving the girls in awe. He then hurled the Haki-imbued branch at a nearby rock. The moment it struck the rock, it exploded into tiny pieces, with the branch embedding itself in the remnants before slowly returning to its ordinary appearance.
"Incredible, this art is truly priceless, even compared to the skills of the Four Sacred Grounds," Little Fairy exclaimed, her shock evident.
Cang Yue, however, had a more practical concern. "But is the color of the Haki always pure shiny black?" She worried about the idea of her face turning coal-black if she practiced this art.
Yun Che couldn't help but chuckle at the thought, imagining the girls with faces as black as coal. He assured them, "No, the pure shiny black is the advanced version of Armament Haki. In the basic form, the Haki won't be visible, but fellow Haki users will be able to detect if your body or weapons are imbued with Haki. Even the basic version is more than sufficient to change the balance of cultivation in this world."
Cang Yue and Little Fairy, now aware of the capabilities of Haki, were eager to learn more. Cang Yue asked, "This is already astonishing. I can't wait to hear about the third type. Is it even more powerful than this one?"
Yun Che then continued "Yeah, the third one is a rare and unobtainable by training. Only one in a million people possessed it. It is called Haoshoku No Haki or Conqueror's will. It enables the user to overpower weak will opponents and forcing them to lose consciousness."
Little Fairy slowly thought that those stronger cultivators able to overpower the weaker easily but she never heard about overpowering will power before. "Overpower the weaker will?"
"It amplifies the fear within your heart and force you to lose consciousness. In battle, the moment your fear takes over you. It'll be over. But keep in mind that if your opponent have stronger willpower, Haoshoku will be useless against them." He explained to them.
Retsu eyes was full of glitter when she heard about this incredible skill. "Incredible. So, Young master? You had this kind of Haki?"
Yun Che fell silent but slowly activated his Sharingan, its crimson eye spinning with the tomoe pattern. With practiced ease, he emitted a lower level of Haki toward a bird soaring high in the sky. Instantly, the bird plummeted from the heavens, but Yun Che swiftly caught it before it could hit the ground. During his month of training, he had perfected the art of using Sharingan to target specific energy signatures, ensuring that his Haki would only affect the intended targets. His display left the others in shock, especially Retsu.
Little Fairy was amazed once again. "Incredible, you possess this rare Haki? If the world were to discover this, sects would either hunt you down or desperately seek to recruit you." However, she also harbored concerns that the sects would go to extreme lengths to extract this unique power from them.
"It's not just me; Retsu has this Haki as well," Yun Che revealed, directing everyone's astonished gaze toward Retsu.
Retsu tilted her head in confusion and said, "Ara, I had this Haki all along?"
Yun Che's explanation continued, shedding light on Retsu's latent Haki abilities. "Yes, your Bankai was the catalyst for awakening your Haki. It draws upon your killing intent as its foundation. When you were regaining your skills, both your Kenbunshoku and Busoshoku Haki awakened alongside you, but you weren't aware of it then. I chose not to tell you because you were still in the process of mastering your other skills. Your Haoshoku Haki manifested once you achieved your Bankai." Yun Che had noticed the similarities between her awakening and the manifestation of Haoshoku Haki. However, he kept it to himself, for he needed to fully master his own Haki before teaching her.
He couldn't help but feel a tinge of envy toward Retsu. She had awakened her Haoshoku Haki simply by unlocking her Bankai, while he had to reach Level 61 to awaken his own. Nevertheless, he held his admiration for her in high regard and had complete faith in her abilities.
Realizing the capabilities of her Haki, Retsu couldn't help but sigh. "If I had known, I might have been able to overcome those Hollows more effectively."
Yun Che gently bumped her head with his hand. "That wouldn't have been possible. Hollows are instinct-driven creatures without will or fear, so Haoshoku wouldn't work on them." Retsu let out another sigh at the realization.
Cang Yue looked at the two with a tinge of envy. "I can't help but envy you both. You possess the most powerful Haki, which is a one-in-a-million occurrence."
Yun Che smiled and reassured her, "Don't be envious; it's a blessing not to have it. As Little Fairy mentioned earlier, if people found out, you could risk being hunted down for its secrets. Possessing the other two Haki has the same risks."
Little Fairy had already made up her mind to learn this ability. "Indeed, it's fortunate that we don't have it. However, we must be extremely cautious not to reveal the secrets of Haki to others. This world is already dominated by the strong controlling the weak, and being hunted for its secret would be a nightmare." She couldn't help but worry about the potential chaos if others discovered the existence of Haki, including the Four Sacred Grounds.
Yun Che emphasized the importance of strength. "Strength is your shield and sword, and Haki is the whetstone that sharpens them both. Combined with your existing power, the three of you may one day become the most formidable warriors beneath the heavens. So, are you ready to learn Haki?"
All three nodded simultaneously. Cang Yue and Little Fairy needed to reawaken their latent abilities, while Retsu required only practice. Given her prodigious talent, she might master advanced Haki techniques within days.
Before Yun Che could continue explaining, a sudden interruption occurred. Bright lights emerged seemingly out of thin air, and an annoying yet familiar face materialized. It was Kon, appearing in his plushy form.
"It is I, Kon-sama! This super Idol Ore-sama wants to learn too," Kon declared with his usual flamboyant enthusiasm. Having overheard everything from Yun Che's inner world, he was eager to acquire Haki, which he missed out on during the Phoenix Trial.
The girls were both curious and perplexed by the talking plush toy that had jumped out of nowhere. Retsu, in particular, observed Kon with interest, as she had only heard about him but had never seen him up close before.
Yun Che explained to the girls, "Oh, this is the creature I obtained during the Phoenix Trial. His name is Kon, but he's a perverted lion who can't seem to get women off his mind."
Cang Yue, hearing the word "pervert," immediately took refuge behind Little Fairy, letting out a startled "Kyaa!" She was clearly unnerved by the notion of a pervert in their midst.
"Araa~~" Retsu's playful smile graced her lips as she eyed Kon with an air of mystery and amusement. Kon, on the other hand, seemed utterly terrified of Retsu's gaze.
Little Fairy assumed her protective big sister role, warning Kon sternly, "Beast or not, if you harbor any perverted intentions toward me or my sisters, I will personally teach you a lesson you won't forget."
Kon gulped and nodded fervently, responding with a shaky "Hai."
Yun Che interjected, explaining his reasons for introducing Kon to them, "It's better for them to know about you now rather than later when you get yourself into trouble. Especially Retsu; you really don't want to make her angry."
Kon couldn't help but shiver at the thought of Retsu's potential wrath when she came to see her future sister. He had experienced her anger firsthand in Yun Che's inner world when he tried to jump on her, only to receive a swift fist to his plushy face. Before that, he had gotten in trouble with the Phoenix, Mizu, and Kaze, who had relentlessly chased him around. Though things had since improved thanks to the playful antics of Shirayuki and Kuroyuki, Kon knew that Retsu was not to be trifled with. His only refuge from their antics had been with Jasmine, who, thankfully, didn't treat him as a punching bag.
Jasmine's relationship with Kon somehow mirrored his once relationship with Kuchiki Rukia.
But now, hearing about Yun Che's Haki training, Kon decided it was time to join in and learn something useful. After all, if he could master Haki, he could empower the bodies he possessed, adding a new dimension to his combat capabilities.
When Yun Che agreed to let Kon learn Haki, the plush toy found a rock to stand on and declared his intentions. Yun Che accepted, recognizing the potential benefits of teaching Kon Haki.
With everyone onboard, Yun Che announced their tight schedule for mastering Haki. "Haki typically takes three months to master, but I'm giving you girls and Kon three days." His tone was firm; they were now racing against time.
He continued, "If you can't master it within three days, I'm afraid I'll have to leave you here for your own safety."
The girls understood his sense of urgency and nodded in agreement. Three days was a short window, but they were determined to master basic Haki to become more formidable allies.
Kon, now perched on Yun Che's shoulder, enthusiastically exclaimed, "Let's get started, Yun Che! Let's go!" Yun Che couldn't help but sigh at Kon's unrelenting energy, but at least someone or something was in high spirits.
Retsu, walking beside Yun Che, finally spoke up, "What about me, young master?" She had already awakened all three forms of Haki but had yet to develop them.
"I will personally train your Haki until you reach the advanced stage, Retsu," Yun Che assured her. Retsu nodded, anticipation in her eyes as she eagerly looked forward to enhancing her Haki further. With that, their intense Haki training began.
As the days passed, Yun Che devoted himself to instructing the girls and Kon on the intricacies of Haki. He demonstrated the fundamentals of Observation Haki, showing them how to sense the energy and presence of living beings around them. The girls practiced detecting the aura of nearby creatures and cultivating the instinct to predict their movements.
Next, they delved into Busoshoku Haki, learning how to infuse their willpower into their bodies and weapons to strengthen their attacks and defenses. Yun Che guided them in honing their Haki to become a powerful shield against any threats they might face.
During breaks, Retsu received specialized training to develop her Haoshoku Haki. Yun Che shared his experiences and insights, helping her unlock the full potential of this rare and fearsome form of Haki.
Kon, though initially clumsy, made significant progress thanks to Yun Che's guidance and the motivation to improve his possession abilities. He learned how to channel Haki through the bodies he possessed, making his combat forms even more formidable.
The training sessions were grueling, pushing everyone to their limits. But as the third day arrived, the girls and Kon had made remarkable strides in mastering their respective forms of Haki. They had grown more confident in their abilities, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
===================
Then, three days later, it was finally time to say their goodbyes. The entire Phoenix clan gathered in the square, where Cang Yue's eagle awaited to take them to the forbidden zone of the forest. They could have stayed longer, but the risk of another hollow attack loomed, and this departure would buy the Phoenix clan some much-needed time to cultivate, at least up to the lowest benchmark, Sky Profound Realm.
"Farewell, Yun Che. May you have a safe journey," Feng Caiyun spoke as if she were bidding farewell to her own son.
"I'll be fine, Mom," Yun Che replied with a reassuring grin.
"Oh my~~ Are you starting to see yourself as my son-in-law? Maybe I shouldn't let my 'son' go at this rate," Feng Caiyun teased, her tone playfully maternal.
"Caiyun," Feng Baichuan chimed in, a bit embarrassed by his wife's teasing.
"Hehe, I just can't help myself, husband," Feng Caiyun smiled warmly. However, when Cang Yue and Retsu said their goodbyes and gave her hugs, her composure faltered. These girls had become like daughters to her within a month, and she couldn't hide her emotions any longer. When Retsu embraced her, she melted and tears welled up in her eyes.
"Immortal Yun, please forgive my wife," Feng Baichuan apologized for her emotional outburst. He tried to maintain a calm demeanor as his wife wasn't ready to part with her 'daughters'.
"Ahahaha, there's nothing to forgive. I appreciate her candidness with me and the others," Yun Che reassured with a warm smile.
Feng Xian'er clung tightly to Kon, not willing to let the plushy go. She also buried herself in Little Fairy's embrace much to Kon's pleasure, reluctant to release her hold. Despite Little Fairy's tough exterior, everyone knew she wasn't ready to part with these children.
Xian'er had grown close to Retsu and learned many things from her, including various dishes. She also had a special connection with Cang Yue due to her ladylike nature. However, she was closest to Little Fairy, who exuded a motherly aura. In the future, Feng Xian'er might grow to be as beautiful as her mother, protective as her father, as intelligent as Retsu, as graceful as Cang Yue, and as calm and composed as Little Fairy.
"Big brother, I promised I'll become a hero by the time you return," Feng Zu'er said, struggling to hold back tears. This young boy idolized Yun Che and believed that all heroes should be like him.
"Then, a hero needs bravery and more than just courage," Yun Che replied, handing Feng Zu'er a tactical combat knife. The knife was imbued with a protective kido charm that would shield the user in the event of a foreign attack. He had also given a necklace with similar properties to Feng Caiyun, a gift from Retsu, and a bracelet to Feng Baichuan, a token from Yun Che himself. If the Phoenix clan discovered these gifts, they would be overwhelmed with envy.
As for Feng Xian'er, after releasing her embrace of Little Fairy, it was Yun Che's turn to receive her hug. "Big brother, when I grow up, I want to marry you." Her innocent proclamation left the air tinged with both amusement and warmth, and Yun Che couldn't help but smile.
Yun Che grinned warmly and patted Feng Xian'er's head affectionately. "Then, big brother will be patiently waiting for that day."
Feng Xian'er's happiness knew no bounds when Yun Che accepted her proposal. Her eyes lit up like the morning sun, and her face blossomed into a radiant smile that could rival the most beautiful flowers. She clapped her hands together in joy, her laughter chiming like a melody in the air.
"Big brother Yun Che, you promise?" she exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement and pure delight. Her eyes sparkled with a childlike innocence, her trust in Yun Che unwavering. To her, Yun Che was not just a big brother but someone truly special, someone she admired and cherished deeply.
In that moment, it was clear to everyone present that Feng Xian'er's affection for Yun Che was genuine and wholehearted. She might be a little girl now, but her feelings for him ran deep, and she believed in the promise he had made to her. As they watched her brimming with happiness, they couldn't help but wonder what the future held for her and Yun Che. In ten years' time, when she had grown into a young woman, who knew what their relationship might become?
Little Fairy had already prepared a Frozen Cloud Charm for Feng Xian'er's necklace, imbuing it with similar protective properties as Yun Che's Kido charm for Feng Zu'er. However, Yun Che had his own special gift in mind. He had asked Shirayuki and Kuroyuki to create a unicorn plushy for Feng Xian'er as well.
This plushy resembled a white unicorn with a glistening golden horn on its head, a golden-red crest and tail, and plushy black hooves. But the real surprise lay in the enchantments Yun Che had placed upon it. He imbued it with the same protective Kido charm as the necklace, ensuring her safety. Additionally, he gave the unicorn plushy an AI soul programmed to protect her and her brother, acting as her loyal companion. This AI soul functioned similarly to a pet horse, following her around and offering her company.
When Yun Che released the plushy, it began to move, leaving behind a brilliant golden-red neon trail as it ran around Feng Xian'er. Her eyes widened in amazement as she watched the enchanting display.
"This thing looks even better than me! Unfair! This is discrimination against lions!" Kon protested from Yun Che's shoulder, his eyes filled with jealousy. The unicorn plushy had been created by Shirayuki and Kuroyuki and boasted a fiery crest that left a vibrant, delayed neon trail as it moved. It even had an AI horse soul, making it an impressive gift.
Yun Che chuckled and grabbed Kon's head, producing a plushy sound. "Suck it up, buddy."
Feng Baichuan and Feng Caiyun were equally astonished by the unicorn plushy. They were taken aback by the unexpected nature of Feng Zu'er's combat knife and Feng Xian'er's unique gift.
"How..." Feng Caiyun couldn't help but wonder aloud. She never expected that a plushy could come to life. Seeing Kon in his lion form had been surprising enough, but a sentient plushy was beyond her wildest imagination.
"We have our ways," Yun Che replied with a knowing smile. With the combat knife and the enchanted plushy, both twins were left utterly bewildered by their extraordinary gifts.
As they boarded the eagle and prepared to depart, Yun Che felt a bittersweet mixture of emotions. He was leaving behind a place that had become a second home to him, a family that had welcomed him with open arms. The warmth and camaraderie he had experienced in the Phoenix Clan had touched his heart in a profound way.
Feng Baichuan's words were filled with genuine concern, and Yun Che replied, "I'll take care, clan leader Baichuan. Please take care of yourselves as well."
But it was Feng Caiyun's teasing and playful remark that brought a blush to Yun Che's face. "Aren't we your in-laws?" she quipped mischievously. Her husband, Feng Baichuan, playfully bonked her head, and the family shared a hearty laugh.
Retsu and Cang Yue, equally mischievous, joined in the fun, promising to take good care of their "son-in-law." Yun Che couldn't help but sweatdrop at their antics.
With final pats on the twins' heads and heartfelt goodbyes, Yun Che and his party boarded the eagle, ready to continue their journey. As they soared away from the Phoenix Clan, Yun Che couldn't help but smile. This family, once strangers, had welcomed them with open arms and given them refuge when they needed it most. Little Fairy, who had initially appeared tough and stoic, couldn't hold back a tear. She was overwhelmed by the warmth and kindness they had received, silently thanking their newfound family.
In the end, the Phoenix Clan had not only provided them with shelter but also the opportunity to grow stronger and master the basics of Haki. It was a bond forged in adversity, a bond they knew they would carry in their hearts forever. The debt of gratitude was something they could never fully repay, and the Phoenix Clan owed them just as much for restoring their lost cultivation. It was a mutual exchange of kindness and support that bound them together, leaving an indelible mark on their souls.