After nodding to Han Yuying, Nian Xifeng led Nian Yuchi away from her home, heading back to their own place.

As they walked, Nian Xifeng’s brow furrowed slightly. Nian Yuchi noticed and asked curiously, “Brother, what’s wrong?” Her tone was calm, but concern bled through every word.

“Nothing,” Nian Xifeng replied, pausing briefly before shaking his head with a faint smile.

“No, something’s definitely up. You wouldn’t frown like this otherwise. And you’ve been silent so long—you always get quiet when you’re thinking hard.” Nian Yuchi pressed on. Honestly, she understood him better than he understood himself. That’s why she was so sure he’d run into trouble.

Nian Xifeng froze again, caught off guard by her words. But he stayed quiet. After years together, they knew each other’s hearts better than their own.

After a moment’s silence, he finally spoke slowly. “Our days ahead might not be peaceful.” His voice was heavy with gravity.

“It’s fine. I’ll face it with you,” Nian Yuchi said firmly. They’d always relied on each other, never parting. No hardship had broken them before—this wouldn’t either.

“Hmm. But this time… unexpected things might happen.” Though touched by her words, Nian Xifeng couldn’t risk her safety. Their enemy was strong—he’d seen it in that red-robed man. The man’s power matched his own; he was the first to escape the Dark Mist. And rumors said a powerful clan backed him.

They only had each other. If the red-robed man returned, he could hold Nian Xifeng down alone. His allies might target Nian Yuchi then—and Nian Xifeng couldn’t protect her while fighting. She had no combat skills. That was his deepest fear.

“No matter what happens, I’ll stay by your side,” Nian Yuchi declared, her voice unwavering. Her eyes shone with fierce resolve, like a girl unafraid of any danger.

“Okay,” Nian Xifeng murmured, ruffling her hair with a tender smile. “Let’s go home.”

“Alright!” Nian Yuchi snuggled happily into his arms as they walked.

But Nian Xifeng’s mind churned. If things turned dire, he’d never let her face it with him. This mess was his fault—he’d dragged her in. His gaze hardened, as if making a silent vow. This enemy demanded his full focus. Even then, victory wasn’t certain. But he’d shield her at all costs. Even with his life.

Back home, Nian Yuchi headed straight to cook dinner. Nian Xifeng stood by the window, watching the last streaks of sunset fade. He lost himself in thought.

Dinner was ready quickly. Nian Yuchi set simple dishes on the table. Seeing them, Nian Xifeng felt pure happiness. Her cooking had improved over the years, and she always made his favorites. Without hesitation, he dug in—just like every time she cooked for him.

Nian Yuchi watched contentedly, handing him water now and then. “Slow down. There’s no rush.”

After dinner, Nian Yuchi went to shower. Nian Xifeng sat silently on the couch, replaying the day’s events. He didn’t know when the red-robed man would strike—but he’d never let it go.

‘I’ll stay extra careful these next few days. Yuchi must stay safe.’ That was his only thought. He didn’t care about himself—but no one would harm his sister.

Soon, Nian Yuchi emerged from the bathroom in soft pajamas, damp hair clinging to her shoulders. A faint, pure fragrance drifted from her skin. She sat beside him, her heart aching at his furrowed brow.

“Brother… still thinking about today?” She leaned gently against his shoulder, offering silent comfort.

“Yeah. This enemy is strong. Someone escaping my grasp means his power rivals mine.” His voice was grave, laced with a trace of bitterness.

“Escaped you?” Nian Yuchi gasped. She knew his strength well—the Dark Mist was inescapable unless he released it. Hearing this from him… No wonder he was so serious.

“Mm. And behind him lies a massive force—one we can’t hope to fight.” Nian Xifeng met her eyes earnestly. “Yuchi… are you afraid?”

“No!” She answered instantly, no hesitation. “As long as I’m with you, I fear nothing.” Her smile was radiant, impossibly bright.

“Okay,” Nian Xifeng whispered, pulling her close. He said nothing more.

“Go shower now!” Nian Yuchi pushed him away playfully, feigning annoyance.

“Alright.” Nian Xifeng headed to the bathroom—she’d already laid out his clothes.

He emerged soon after, wished her goodnight, and retreated to his room.

Morning came quietly. Nian Xifeng rose early as usual, cooked breakfast, and set it on the table before waking Nian Yuchi.

This time, she didn’t laze in bed. She sat up slowly, dressing herself without hesitation. She never hid from him—after all, he’d helped her dress for years. Nothing was secret between them.

Nian Xifeng watched, surprised but pleased. She’s finally growing up, he thought with a soft smile before closing her door gently.

Nian Yuchi came downstairs soon after. She washed up, sat at the table, and ate her meal quietly, slowly.

“Why so well-behaved today?” Nian Xifeng teased, charmed by her grace.

“Well… I should change. I can’t keep making you worry about me.” She sounded utterly matter-of-fact.

“Aren’t you causing me enough trouble already?” He chuckled, no real scolding in his tone.

Nian Yuchi just stuck out her tongue shyly, cheeks flushing pink. But it didn’t matter—he’d never mind. She was his sister. Worrying for her was only right.

After breakfast, they headed to school. Nian Xifeng didn’t know when danger would strike—but guarding her was enough. Life had to go on. He wouldn’t let fear disrupt their routine.

Walking down school corridors, they drew envious glances from classmates. Nian Xifeng watched them wistfully. How he longed for that peace—carefree days with no worries. But they couldn’t have it. Unknown dangers awaited, forcing them to face burdens no teenagers should bear.

Only when you’re old do you envy the young. But that life wasn’t theirs. They’d just have to fight fate, tooth and nail.