Stepping into Die Qing Palace…

  Yan Hong Lian gently leaned against Lan An, her warm breath brushing his cheek, joy shining in her eyes.

  Lan An had missed them dearly. Two years apart, despite being surrounded by many, his heart had always held space for them.

  Their bond was forged through life-and-death struggles in the cave mansion. Back then, he was still a naive youth newly departed from the Lan Clan, and their companionship became a light during his darkest hours.

  Though they came from an esteemed Eighth-Grade power, they willingly chose to stand by him. Their trust became something Lan An would never forget.

  Now, reunited, they saw how far he had come—strong, confident, surpassing rivals who once mocked him. Their hearts swelled with pride.

  Hong Lian laughed softly, brushing dust from his robe. “Look at you, returning like a tiger to the mountains.”

  Die Qing, though younger, held no reserve. She hugged him tightly, refusing to let go. “You’re finally back… we thought you’d forgotten us.”

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  “How could I?” Lan An replied, patting their hands affectionately. “Everything I achieved, I wanted to show you first.”

  The warmth between them grew, years of longing melting into smiles and shy glances. He led them toward the soft couch by the window, where moonlight spilled like silver water.

  “Sit here,” Lan An said, his voice low but full of affection. “I want to look at you properly… both of you.”

  Hong Lian wore the red Lotus Flame Robe he had gifted her long ago—its vibrant color matching her fiery spirit. Die Qing donned a light Wind Chime gown, her youthfulness shining through like a spring breeze.

  They looked at him nervously yet happily, cheeks lightly flushed.

  Lan An chuckled, gently taking their hands. “You’ve both grown stronger… and more beautiful.”

  Die Qing stuck out her tongue playfully. “Took me a long time! So you better praise me properly.”

  Hong Lian nudged her sister before looking at Lan An, voice softening. “We just want to stay by your side. Don’t push yourself alone anymore.”

  Lan An’s expression turned serious for a heartbeat. He held them close, his arms steady and warm.

  “I won’t let any of us be separated again.”

  The three sat together, exchanging stories, recounting every hardship and hope kept inside during the years apart. Their laughter occasionally trembled with emotion, tears brushed away before they could fall.

  Night deepened, and the palace grew quiet—only their whispered promises remaining.

  Lan An intertwined their fingers with his, smiling gently.

  “From today onward, we move forward together.”

  Both sisters nodded, resting contently against him, finally at peace.