Chapter 31 - Fiery Mystic Forest

In the heart of the Fiery Mystic Forest, where ancient trees reached for the skies, their branches tangled like a chaotic dance, stood a refined and powerful expert. He is a tall and sturdy figure whose every movement exuded an aura of refined strength. Opposite him was a 15-year-old young man, a literal vision of divine beauty. His tall, godly figure with sharp features painted a picture of ethereal handsomeness. He is mighty and his aura is cold.

He exuded a hint of abstinence.

The two conversed in a small courtyard nestled within the forest. The air was thick with the scent of moss and ancient magic, creating an almost surreal atmosphere. The ground beneath them was covered in soft, vibrant moss, and the sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting a dappled glow on the scene.

The courtyard held a simple wooden house, its structure weathered by time yet retaining a rustic charm. The furniture, made of sturdy wood, displayed the simplicity of forest living. A small wooden table and chairs adorned the courtyard, inviting moments of quiet contemplation.

The refined expert, his eyes gleaming with an otherworldly wisdom, spoke to the young man, "Young master, I've checked the Akashic Records of the mystic realms and glimpsed the threads of fate. Your destined person has set foot on this continent. The time is uncertain, but the person at this moment is here for sure."

The young man, his gaze piercing through the forest shadows, questioned, "Qin Si, are you sure about this? And if I meet this person, will I uncover the secrets of my birth?"

Qin Si nodded solemnly, "I am as sure as the roots run deep in this ancient forest, the meeting will come to pass. As for the secrets being revealed, only your meeting with the person can tell us."

The young man became silent. 

The small wooden house, with its simple furnishings, seemed like a haven in the midst of the mystical wilderness. The sun played peek-a-boo through the thick foliage, casting a warm glow on the courtyard where the threads of fate were being delicately woven. The meeting of the Qin Si and the godly young man marked a moment in time where destiny whispered through the leaves and shadows of the Fiery Mystic Forest.

Chujiu reached her room, took a bath and slept.

The night had been an adventure for Chujiu, but even adventurers need their rest. As the moon sailed through the sky, casting a silvery glow, Chujiu slept peacefully. She had a mission of a different kind – a mission for slumber.

Morning, after having her breakfast, Chujiu made her way to Grandfather Lin's study room.

"Grandpa," she called as she entered the room, "could you invite Eldest Uncle and Aunt? I have matters to discuss with them."

Grandfather Lin, nodded and sent a guard for his eldest son and daughter in law. However, there was an unexpected guest in tow – Lin Kai, the envious second uncle who had some grumbles of his own.

As the trio gathered, Lin Kai wore a clouded expression, a storm of annoyance playing on his face. He couldn't fathom why Chujiu always seemed to seek his eldest brother's company. Wasn't he an uncle too? A part of the manor? Though he spent most of his time at the South Lin Army campus, he did visit once or twice a week. Why did Chujiu ignore him?

Blaming his eldest brother for monopolising Chujiu's affection, Lin Kai grumbled inward. "What's so special about him? I'm here too, you know."

Meanwhile, Chujiu, unaware of Lin Kai's inner turmoil, was ready for some light-hearted banter. "Good evening, everyone! I've gathered you all for a grand summit," she declared with a playful glint in her eyes.

Eldest Uncle and Aunt exchanged amused glances, wondering what their naughty niece had in store this time. Lin Kai, on the other hand, was still caught in the whirlwind of his own vexation.

Lin Kai couldn't keep it to himself any longer. "Why is it always him? I'm here too, Little Jiu. Don't I deserve some attention?"

Chujiu couldn't wait to tell them about her night adventure. "Guess what? I had the craziest shopping trip ever – at the Song family treasury!" she blurted out excitedly.

Eldest Uncle raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise. "Oh, do tell, our little princess went on a night adventure alone. And what did you buy in the Song manor?"

Chujiu grinned mischievously as she gestured towards the vast array of treasures laid out before her family. "Here you go, I purchased a lot."

Eldest Uncle, Eldest Aunt, and even Lin Kai, all stared wide-eyed at the mountain of riches that seemed to have materialised out of thin air. Grandfather Lin, though maintaining his composed demeanour, couldn't help but raise an impressed eyebrow.

"What... in the world?" Eldest Uncle stammered, utterly flabbergasted.

Chujiu chuckled. "Oh, just a little 'shopping' spree in the Song family treasury. Turns out they hoard quite the collection of interesting trinkets. Now, feast your eyes on this golden extravaganza!"

Lin Kai, eyed the pile of gold jewellery with a glint in his eyes. "Not bad, Chujiu. I might need to accompany you on your next adventure."

He has to take care of a large group of soldiers, medical pills these days are getting more and more expensive. Having extra resources is not bad.

"Easy, Uncle Kai," Chujiu teased, "I doubt Song family would appreciate having both of us as uninvited guests."