He turned to look at the two children gathered beside Su Qingwei. Seeing their innocent, lively faces, he felt a faint warmth rise in his heart.
They sat around the campfire, picked up the roasted venison, and sprinkled it with the spices and seasonings they carried. The meat was crisp outside and tender within, its savory fragrance filling their mouths.
Mao Mao also received a large chunk of meat and lay to one side, clutching it and gnawing away in delight. Even the Golden Rat's whiskers gleamed with grease, and every so often, Mao Mao looked up and gave a few satisfied squeaks.
Everyone ate the roasted venison and wild fruit as they chatted.
Chu Lingxi took a bite of meat and looked up at the rolling mountains in the distance, her eyes full of wonder:
"The mountain forests here are so much more vast than those at the Azure Elixir Sect. Look at the treetops of those ancient trees, spreading into the distance layer after layer. It's completely different from the view in the sect's little courtyard."
Lin Ruoruo nodded repeatedly, her bright eyes sparkling. "Yes, when the wind passes through the woods, the leaves rustle. It's so soothing to listen to. It must sound even lovelier here at night."
Su Qingwei smiled faintly and gently tidied the hair at her temple. "It may be simple here, but it has the freedom of the wilds. It's just a pity the flames of war have yet to die down. Countless common people across the land can hardly hope for even a moment of peace like this."
Lin Fan nodded slightly at her words and said softly, "Once my cultivation advances another step, I'll have the ability to end this war. When that time comes, the common people of the world