Return to Holy Soul Village

Holy Soul Village, this small village, still retained its usual tranquility and simplicity.

The low mud-brick houses, curling smoke from cooking fires, and the iconic large locust tree at the village entrance—everything was much the same as before.

The carriage stopped at the village entrance. Tang San jumped down first, then carefully helped Cinderella down.

Having received word long ago, Village Chief Old Jack and several villagers were already waiting at the entrance.

The moment he saw them, Old Jack's face broke into a broad smile as he hurried forward.

"Little San, Xian Di, you're finally back!" Old Jack's voice carried the hoarseness and warmth unique to the elderly. He carefully looked the two of them over, his eyes full of gratification.

"Good, good, you've both grown taller and look much more spirited! Studying in Notting City must have been hard, right?"

"Grandpa Jack." Cinderella called sweetly, stepping forward to link her arm through Old Jack's.

"It wasn't hard. Are you keeping well?"

"Good, I'm doing very well!" Old Jack grinned from ear to ear, his gaze toward Cinderella brimming with affection.

He then looked at Tang San and patted his shoulder. "Little San too—you're getting sturdier by the day."

Tang San nodded to Old Jack in greeting. Though his expression remained calm, it was far gentler than when he dealt with outsiders.

His gaze swept over the villagers behind Old Jack, whose faces held curiosity and a trace of reverence, and he gave them a slight nod.

"Grandpa Jack, have the things for the awakening ceremony been prepared?" Cinderella asked.

"They're ready, they've been ready for ages! They're in the village's Spirit Hall. Ah, that little wooden house." Old Jack hurriedly replied.

"There are six children turning six this year. They've been waiting for you two to return!"

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