As the day wore on, Tie Cheng and the villagers returned, their arms laden with goods—spirit herbs, rare ores, even a few cultivation manuals.
"Young Master Yun!" Tie Cheng laughed. "This old man hasn't had this much fun in years!"
Yun Lintian chuckled. "Then visit anytime."
Tie Muqiu, who had wandered the streets in silence, finally spoke. "Uncle Cheng... I'll stay here for a while."
Tie Cheng's eyes softened. "Good. Your father would be happy."
Yun Lintian nodded in approval. "I'll arrange a residence for you."
Tie Muqiu glanced at him. "...Thank you."
It was a small word, but for someone like her, it carried weight.
Yun Lintian grinned. "Don't mention it."
As the sun set over Nine Firmament City, casting golden light over the canals, something in Tie Muqiu's chest—something that had been cold for so long—began to thaw.
Perhaps... this was worth living for.
