Early the next morning, General Lin Huiye gathered her companions—Wu Yue, Zi Ling, and Ting Xue—before heading to the Qinghuan Inn. As they approached, Chu Xiyue and Ye Mingzhi were already standing at the entrance, awaiting their arrival.
"Long time no see, my friends!" Ye Mingzhi greeted them with a warm smile.
They enjoyed a simple breakfast together while checking their gear and ensuring everything was prepared for the journey ahead. Just before departure, Ye Mingzhi turned to the group. "I need to visit someone important before we leave. Wait for me a little while."
Although curious, Chu Xiyue nodded in understanding. She knew everyone carried secrets, and she respected his choice. Turning to Lin Huiye and the others, she asked with a playful smile, "So... does he have other girls who like him?"
A collective thought passed through their minds: Forgive us, my lord...
"Yes," Wu Yue replied carefully. "But one of them is actually his youngest sister."
"Huh? His youngest sister?" Chu Xiyue tilted her head. "Then I need to prepare a present for her. Is she cute?"
They exchanged glances, realizing she was probably feeling a little jealous—perhaps an effect of her newly awakened bloodline stirring forgotten emotions. Zi Ling smiled gently and said, "Yes, she's very cute. But she's your biggest supporter too, Lady Lord."
Hearing that, Chu Xiyue's smile grew even brighter.
Meanwhile, Ye Mingzhi made his way to the rooftop of the Qinghuan Inn, where the true owners resided.
"Hey Mingzhi, long time no see. Leaving so soon?" Ye Yishi raised his wine cup and drank deeply. "You found her already? Are you sure it's the right time to go to the Demon Realm?"
Sitting beside him, Liu Huanyin placed a calming hand on his arm.
"Yes, Uncle," Ye Mingzhi replied steadily. "She's awakened her bloodline. I must go to the Demon Realm to protect her. I've brought my followers as support. I won't let anything happen to her."
Looking into Ye Yishi's eyes, he continued, "I promise not to take any reckless risks."
Liu Huanyin gently handed him a small pouch and a folded set of armor. "Your father asked your uncle to keep this for you. We've grown tired of war and court politics. All we want now is a peaceful life. Forgive us if we can't help you more."
"There's nothing to forgive," Ye Mingzhi said, his voice softening. "How... how is my father doing?" It had been a long time since he had spoken that word.
"He's well," Ye Yishi replied. "Busy caring for your mother. He had no time to search for you himself. Just remember—don't rush your decisions. Take everything one step at a time."
"I will," Ye Mingzhi promised. "Thank you, Uncle. Aunt. Take care."
Shortly afterward, Ye Mingzhi rejoined the group outside the inn. "Let's go," he said. "To the Demon Realm."
Their journey took them south through Wuya County, where a teleportation array prepared by Emperor Chu awaited. The scenery was serene and beautiful, bringing a sense of peace… until they arrived at the Demon Realm.
The landscape shifted—cold and chaotic. Demons begged on the roadside; others fought violently for power. It was a land of unrest, unsafe even for its own people—let alone outsiders.
Chu Xiyue's heart tightened. "What happened to this place? How did it become like this? How will I ever find my family here?"
Before she could ponder further, a demon lunged at them with a weapon.
"Outsiders! Leave now!" he yelled.
Ye Mingzhi and his companions quickly defended themselves, defeating the attacker. Chu Xiyue, visibly upset, confronted them. "Why did you kill him so quickly? Maybe he could've told us what's going on here. Maybe he knew about my family!"
Ye Mingzhi's sharp eyes met hers. His voice was cold. "He attacked us first. That weapon wasn't from the Demon Emperor's guard. His words couldn't be trusted. You're too naïve, little sweetheart. You must listen to me."
Tears welled up in Chu Xiyue's eyes. She turned and ran.
Ye Mingzhi sighed and ordered, "Wu Yue, Ting Xue—go after her. Keep her safe."
Zi Ling, dressed in a red-rose blouse, her long hair cascading down her shoulders, stepped forward. "My lord, our lady is still young. She just awakened her bloodline. Her memories are confused. She needs time—and your patience. I know you worry, but sometimes you must let her stumble so she can learn who to trust. Wu Yue and Ting Xue will protect her."
Ye Mingzhi exhaled heavily. "I feel like a father worrying about a stubborn daughter. She's too naïve… was I too harsh?"
"A little, my lord," Zi Ling replied honestly. "Especially for someone still figuring herself out. I suggest you speak with more care next time. Be gentle—but honest."
Ye Mingzhi nodded slowly, reflecting on her words.
At the same time, Chu Xiyue sat on a rocky ledge, grumbling to herself. "Cold-hearted Ye Mingzhi. You made me cry. Next time, I'm punching you."
Just then, Wu Yue and Ting Xue arrived.
"Lady Lord! We found you. Please don't be angry with our lord. He's just worried about you."
"But why does he speak so coldly? It makes me feel so… hurt."
"He's always like that," Ting Xue said gently. "Harsh words, but a soft heart. He just wants to protect you, even if he doesn't always know how. You can scold him later, if it makes you feel better."