The sun dipped behind the mountains as Hae-rin made her way through the bustling courtyard of Songrim, only to find herself stopped in her tracks at the sight of familiar faces approaching.

Her father, Park Tae-joon, and her mother, Lady Joo-hwa, led the way with her older brother, Ji-hoon, close behind. Alongside them, Master Park and Master Heo joined, exchanging smiles and bowing in respect to the Park family.

"Hae-rin!" her mother called warmly, her face lighting up as she reached out to pull her into an embrace.

"Mother, Father," Hae-rin greeted, bowing with decorum. Ji-hoon gave her a quick smile, a hint of mischief in his gaze.

Just behind her, Seo Yul and Dang-gu joined, their quiet respect evident as they acknowledged her family. Seo Yul offered a polite nod, his composed presence a grounding force in the gathering, while Dang-gu's usual cheer softened to a more reserved smile.

Master Heo and Master Park joined them, exchanging respectful nods with her family members.

"You raised a strong mage," Master Park said, his voice carrying a hint of pride.

"Hae-rin has made us proud here at Songrim."

Her father nodded in return, his eyes warm as he gazed at his daughter.

"She's always been strong-willed." His voice held a trace of amusement, something that made Hae-rin raise her brows slightly, but she kept silent.

"Perhaps too strong-willed," Ji-hoon added, crossing his arms with a smile.

"Though I don't think I need to tell you all that." Hae-rin shot him a narrow-eyed look.

"Ji-hoon, you're just as stubborn," she retorted, but the faint amusement in her eyes softened the sting of her words.

Lady Joo-hwa turned to Seo Yul, Dang-gu, and Master Heo, her expression gentle.

"I trust you'll continue to watch over our Hae-rin?" Her gaze settled on Seo Yul, and a fond, almost motherly warmth softened her tone.

"She may be independent, but a mother always worries."

Hae-rin felt heat rise to her cheeks, a mixture of embarrassment and indignation.

"Mother, I can look after myself," she protested, but her mother only chuckled lightly.

"Oh, Hae-rin, we know you can," her father said with a knowing smile.

"But you're still our little one."

Dang-gu grinned, unable to resist a comment.

"Don't worry, Lady Joo-hwa. We'll keep an eye on her. Though between you and me, she's more likely to be the one watching over us."

Ji-hoon looked at Seo Yul, a playful glint in his eye. "You especially, Seo Yul. I expect you'll be a steadying force on my sister. She respects you."

Hae-rin felt a surge of mixed emotions—a swell of respect for Seo Yul and irritation at her family's doting. She stole a glance at Seo Yul, half-expecting him to mirror her exasperation, but his expression remained composed.

"Of course," Seo Yul replied simply, his voice calm.

"But Hae-rin is more than capable on her own. We all know that well." Master Heo chuckled, patting Hae-rin on the shoulder.

"That she is. But even strong mages need their friends."

Hae-rin managed a sigh, her gaze flicking over her friends and family alike. While her family's protectiveness annoyed her, a warmth settled in her heart knowing they all cared.

Yet she couldn't help but wish they'd see her as more than the youngest, the one who needed constant protection.

As the group began walking back to the main courtyard, Hae-rin fell into step beside Seo Yul. He glanced at her, a hint of understanding in his eyes.

"They mean well," he said softly, his words meant just for her. She gave him a small, grateful smile.

"I know," she replied.

"But it doesn't make it any less irritating."

Just ahead, Ji-hoon shared a laugh with Dang-gu, both exchanging easy banter as they walked.

For a brief moment, Hae-rin let herself enjoy the feeling of unity that surrounded her, the bonds of family and friendship forming a comforting shield against the world's uncertainties.