Kai and Lu Bu made their way back to the large gathering of spirit beasts that had been waiting for them. As they approached, the creatures erupted with excitement, their vibrant forms shimmering in the fading light. Some of them bounded forward, eager to leap onto Kai and shower him with affection, their tails wagging and eyes sparkling with joy.

  However, Kai quickly raised his hands, gently pushing them back. “Easy, everyone! Not too close!” he called out, a smile on his face despite the need for caution. The spirit beasts paused, their enthusiasm momentarily dampened, confusion flickering in their eyes. They had grown accustomed to their bond with Kai, and their instinct was to express their affection freely.

  But as they noticed Lu Bu trembling slightly behind Kai, the creatures quickly understood. They exchanged glances, their instincts kicking in as they sensed the child’s apprehension. With a collective decision, they opted to keep their distance, allowing Kai to maintain a protective barrier around Lu Bu. They would save their exuberant displays of affection for when the boy wasn't so close to Kai

  Even after spending a few days around these creatures, Lu Bu still felt a twinge of fear whenever they were near. Their size and energy were overwhelming, and he instinctively clung to Kai’s side, seeking reassurance and protection. The boy watched the spirit beasts with wide eyes, his heart racing as they moved about, their playful antics both fascinating and intimidating.

  Kai lifted his gaze to the sky, studying the shifting hues of twilight. The sun hovered just above the horizon, casting long, golden streaks across the landscape. By his estimate, they had no more than an hour or two of daylight left. If they wanted, they could press northward through the night—after all, darkness posed little challenge for him.

  His cultivation allowed him to see far better than any mortal, his senses sharp even in the absence of light. Many of the spirit beasts in their group were naturally nocturnal, their keen eyes and instincts making them perfect guides through the night. Navigation wouldn’t be an issue. And this was Zan—the chances of encountering another cultivator or a rival spirit beast were slim to none. There would be no danger in traveling through the night.

  Yet, despite all the advantages, there was one problem.

  Kai lowered his gaze to Lu Bu. The boy yawed beside him, his movement a little slower than before, his small shoulders drooping with exhaustion. Even without saying a word, it was clear—Lu Bu was tired.

  Kai exhaled through his nose, his decision made.

  While he and the spirit beasts could push forward without issue, Lu Bu could not. The child had endured much already, and though he was strong-willed, he was still just that—a child. To force him to travel through the night would be cruel, and Kai had no intention of doing that.

  "We’ll make camp here for the night and set out at first light," Kai said.

  The spirit beasts responded immediately, some letting out low huffs of acknowledgment, others already moving to find a suitable spot for shelter. A few of the larger ones began clearing an area.

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  Kai glanced at Lu Bu again, watching as the boy let out a barely concealed yawn.

  The spirit beasts quickly fanned out, their keen senses guiding them as they searched the area for a suitable campsite. After a brief but thorough exploration, one of the larger beasts, a majestic reptilian creature with shimmering emerald scales, let out a triumphant call. It had discovered a little alcove nestled near the riverbank, hidden away from any well-trodden paths. The spot was perfect—sheltered from the wind, surrounded by lush foliage, and with the soothing sound of flowing water nearby.

  Kai smiled, grateful for the spirit beasts’ instincts. “Great find!” he called out, giving the creature an appreciative nod. He knew that this secluded spot would provide them with the safety and comfort they needed for the night.

  Once they reached the alcove, Kai went through his familiar routine of setting up camp. With Igni, the flame striped tiger, he quickly gathered dry twigs and leaves and created a fire.

  Next, Kai turned his attention to preparing their evening meal. He rummaged through his ring, pulling out whatever vegetables they had managed to scavenge during their travels. There were some hearty roots, a few wild mushrooms, and a handful of vibrant greens that had been collected along the way. He chopped them up with practiced ease, the rhythmic sound of his knife against the wooden cutting board blending harmoniously with the sounds of nature around them.

  As he worked, he added the leftover boar meat into a pot, mixing it with the fresh vegetables and fresh water drawn from the river. The aroma of the cooking meal wafted through the air, enticing the spirit beasts who had gathered nearby. They watched with eager eyes, their tails wagging in anticipation. Kai chuckled, knowing that while he was preparing their meal, the spirit beasts had already taken care of their own needs.

  Earlier, while he had been in Wuyuan City, the spirit beasts had scavenged and hunted for their meals, showcasing their resourcefulness. They had brought back an assortment of fruits, nuts, and even some small game, which they had stored in a hidden cache near the alcove.

  As the pot simmered over the fire, the rich scents of the stew filled the air, and Lu Bu, who had been quietly observing, perked up. “It smells amazing, uncle Kai! Can I help?” he asked, his eyes shining with enthusiasm.

  “Of course!” Kai replied, handing Lu Bu a wooden spoon. “You can stir the pot while I set up the bedding.”

  Lu Bu took the spoon with a grin, carefully stirring the bubbling mixture. Kai moved to gather soft leaves and moss, creating a comfortable sleeping area for the night. The spirit beasts, sensing the impending feast, began to gather around the fire.

  As the meal neared completion, Kai returned to the pot, adding a sprinkle of salt. “Just a little seasoning to make it perfect,” he said, stirring it in with a flourish. The stew was now ready, and he ladled generous portions into wooden bowls, handing them out to Lu Bu.

  “Dinner is served!” Kai announced, his heart swelling with pride as he watched Lu Bu’s face light up with joy. The boy eagerly took his bowl, inhaling the fragrant steam rising from it.

  The spirit beasts pulled out the food they stored and dug into their own meals, their playful banter filling the alcove with warmth and laughter. Kai sat beside Lu Bu, sharing stories of his travels as they enjoyed the hearty stew. The combination of flavors and the camaraderie around the fire created a sense of belonging that wrapped around them like a warm blanket.

  As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of deep blue and indigo, Kai felt a profound sense of gratitude. They were safe, surrounded by friends, and nourished by the fruits of their labor. The night promised rest and rejuvenation, and with the gentle sounds of the river and the crackling fire, Kai knew that tomorrow would bring new adventures and discoveries. Together, they would face whatever challenges lay ahead, united by their bond.