The rich aroma of clear wine paired with the mouth-watering scent of grilled meat filled the small cabin in the forest. It was as if the place had reverted to the peaceful days when Lin Feng studied soul veins here—serene and tranquil.
Though they barely interacted, it seemed as if Bibi Dong and Qian Renxue had a silent understanding, only occasionally speaking their thoughts, with Lin Feng serving as the common ground between them.
"Little Feng, do you really think that transformed soul beast is the mother of that Soft Bone Rabbit?"
Lin Feng was stunned for a moment.
"Of course it is. You heard the conversation between that beautiful woman and the Soft Bone Rabbit yourself. They clearly stated their relationship."
Qian Renxue nodded thoughtfully.
"Indeed. I just didn't expect that they, being soul beasts, could display such strong feelings. To sacrifice oneself just to let one's daughter escape..."
Bibi Dong paused slightly with her silver spoon but continued to eat as if she hadn't heard. This lack of reaction annoyed Qian Renxue.
With a clang, she set her plate aside and turned to Lin Feng.
"Little Feng, don't you think that sometimes the bonds between soul beasts are even more genuine than those of humans?"
Ling Yuan and Lin Feng were speechless—so this was an indirect accusation? Why involve me as the mediator? No matter what I say, it'll be wrong.
Bibi Dong gently set down her plate, gracefully wiping the corner of her mouth.
"Little Feng, do you think soul beasts are born enemies of humans? Isn't it somewhat foolish to empathize with them?"
Lin Feng took a deep breath—why was she also dragging him into this?
Qian Renxue glared.
"Hah, that soul beast mother was far more caring than some people! Even her first instinct was to protect that rabbit. Little Feng, don't you think so?"
The conversation was loud enough for anyone within meters to hear—no need to shout. Also, Qian Renxue, calm down. Look at how composed Bibi Dong is—just from that, you're already at a disadvantage.
Lin Feng hesitated.
"I think..."
Bibi Dong scoffed.
"That rabbit still seems emotionally tied to that transformed soul beast, obediently following its orders."
Ling Yuan covered her mouth—it felt like the two of them were on the verge of an argument. But what should I say now? No guidebook covers this!
Qian Renxue clenched her teeth.
"Are you implying that I'm disobedient? You hardly ever cared about me growing up, so how could I be disobedient?"
She recalled the month spent soul hunting, feeling that their relationship had somewhat improved. Was she not allowed to express a little grievance now? Tears welled up in her eyes, but before she could speak, Bibi Dong intervened.
"Xue'er, I know I've treated you harshly in the past. I apologize. But let's not continue with these veiled accusations—it only harms both of us. We can't change the past, so let's look ahead, okay?"
"You..."
Qian Renxue was at a loss for words—this round clearly belonged to Bibi Dong.
Lin Feng shook his head, feeling it necessary to support Qian Renxue.
He stood up with a serious expression.
"Your Grace, while past mistakes can't be undone, future actions can make amends. The wounds in the heart need time and effort to heal. Even if they scar, if you truly feel guilty toward Xue'er, please make up for it in the days to come."
Bibi Dong looked at Lin Feng, murmuring softly,
"Make up for it in the future? Well said. I've learned something."
She smiled warmly at Qian Renxue, bowing deeply.
"Sorry, Xue'er."
Caught off guard, Qian Renxue tried to dodge the apology but was stopped by Lin Feng, who accepted the gesture on her behalf.
"Little Feng..."
Qian Renxue's breathing quickened. Had the proud sister from before really just lowered herself to apologize?
Bibi Dong smiled and spread her arms.
"Would you like a hug?"
"I don't..."
Before Qian Renxue could finish, Bibi Dong, moving faster than she could react, pulled her into a tight embrace.
"What are you doing!?"
Qian Renxue struggled but soon relaxed, surrendering to the gentle touch as Bibi Dong stroked her hair.
Bibi Dong, too, felt her heart quiver. Deep down, despite all the complexities, she still had feelings for this sister of hers.
"Thank you."
These words struck Bibi Dong's heart, but she couldn't respond. She kept reminding herself that there were still more important things to achieve.
Pulling Lin Feng closer, she wrapped an arm around him as well. As Lin Feng sensed a subtle tremble from Bibi Dong's hand, he couldn't help but wonder—was she nervous?
Qian Renxue, once calm, pulled Lin Feng away from Bibi Dong, her expression complicated.
That night, Qian Renxue lay exhausted in Lin Feng's arms, whispering,
"Little Feng, what should I do?"
Lin Feng gently embraced her, placing her head on his shoulder.
"Reconciliation doesn't mean immediate forgiveness. Take your time—see her change and make your decision."
The next morning, Lin Feng prepared to visit the Wuhun Hall's primary academy.
He encountered the old dean, who, after realizing Lin Feng's identity, was overjoyed.
"Lin Feng! You're back!"
Lin Feng nodded with a smile.
"Did the Pope inform you of my arrival?"
"She did! The students are eagerly waiting for you. I just didn't recognize you at first—must be getting old. Come, come to the classroom—the kids admire you so much!"
T/N: For twenty chapters ahead on all my fics become a P@tron at [email protected]/LordHipposApostle