The morning was a nauseatingly perfect cliché. Think postcard-worthy, with a sky so ridiculously blue it looked painted on, and fluffy white clouds that seemed to be auditioning for a laundry detergent commercial. Golden sunlight dripped through the trees, creating dappled patterns on the forest floor, and a chorus of chirping birds seemed determined to break some kind of world record for twee-ness. It was all so breathtakingly idyllic that it almost made you want to gag.

Apparently, XiShi and family had finally stumbled their way into their cave hideout a little while ago. You know, after their completely relaxing and not-at-all stressful trek across who-knows-where. She'd finally finished washing off whatever questionable substances she’d picked up along the way, and now, the kitchen was a chaotic ballet of culinary action. XueLing, bless his Michelin-star-obsessed heart, was attempting to create some kind of brunch experience (as if they were at a five-star resort instead of a damp cave). HaoYue, ever the eager apprentice, was hovering nearby, jotting down mental notes and offering his own heavily-fire-influenced opinions. Naturally, he was a big fan of charring, admitting how his own tribe had a questionable love for fire, basically.

And then, just as predictably, the great berry debate of all times has ignited. XueLing and HaoYue were locked in a fierce argument over the merits (or lack thereof) of those damn berries. Seriously, you'd think they were debating the fate of the universe based on the dramatic hand gestures and exaggerated sighs. Meanwhile, FengXiu, our resident sarcastic commentator, stood to the side, throwing in perfectly timed zingers about how XueLing was clearly losing his marbles. "Did that man's brain rust over the years or did he just forget how to taste?", was probably what he was thinking. He clearly expected more from an elder like XueLing.

XiShi, enjoying the utter absurdity of it all, let out a chuckle. "Guys," she interjected, her voice dripping with amused exasperation. "I wanted to discuss something with you all." She strolled into the kitchen area, effectively putting an end to the berry squabble (for now). Because, let's be honest, when you're surrounded by this level of domestic chaos, a serious conversation is probably the most dangerous thing you can throw at them. And she knew, she would regret it later ( not really , she knows they'll understand )

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[A/N: I plan on ending this book after a few arcs . It will be over before February ends...... how's the plot so far?]

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