Zhou Hao and Zhou Jing'er

After Zhou Yuan's departure from the Capital, several days had passed before he finally arrived at the main territory of the Zhou Clan. To his dismay, he was greeted with icy stares and disdainful gazes from the clan members.

It seemed that news of the incident at the Capital had reached even this place. However, Zhou Yuan, being well-prepared for such negativity, chose to disregard their scornful looks and instead focused on his mission. His immediate priority was to meet with his revered grandfather.

Accompanied by Qing'er, Zhou Yuan proceeded towards his grandfather's residence. Suddenly, a familiar voice called out to him, breaking through the cold atmosphere. 

"Ah Yuan?" the voice exclaimed. Zhou Yuan instinctively turned towards the sound, recognizing it as the voice of his cousin, Zhou Jing'er.

Zhou Jing'er, a striking young woman with a pretty face, slender figure, dark hair, obsidian eyes, and red lips, approached him with a joyful giggle. 

"Ah Yuan, you're finally back!" she exclaimed, drawing closer with each step. 

"I've missed you so much! I heard you left for the Capital a few days ago. I didn't expect you to return so soon." With genuine happiness, she embraced him tightly.

Feeling the warmth and familiarity of her embrace, Zhou Yuan reciprocated with equal sincerity. 

"I've missed you too, Big Sister Jing'er," he replied, his voice filled with genuine affection. 

Over the past three years, Zhou Yuan had distanced himself from most of his clan members, sensing their insincerity. 

He had encountered his fair share of dishonest and manipulative individuals, becoming adept at recognizing them. 

Apart from his grandfather and a select few, his uncle and cousin were the only ones he felt truly close to within the Zhou Clan.

Zhou Jing'er, still holding him at arm's length, examined him with a smile. "Ah Yuan, you've become even more handsome," she remarked, her eyes sparkling. She then turned her attention to Qing'er, who stood beside Zhou Yuan. 

"Qing'er, you're becoming more beautiful with each passing day." Qing'er blushed slightly but quickly greeted Zhou Jing'er. "Thank you, young miss," she replied politely.

Curiosity stirred within Zhou Yuan as he realized that Zhou Jing'er's presence likely meant that his uncle had also returned. Filled with anticipation, he asked, "If you're here, does that mean Uncle has come back too?"

Zhou Jing'er nodded, her smile radiant. "Yes, my father and I arrived today. It's quite a coincidence," she replied, her voice filled with excitement.

Zhou Yuan's smile widened. "You must have some incredible stories to share after your two-year-long mission," he remarked, genuinely intrigued by the adventures she must have experienced.

Zhou Jing'er's smile grew warmer. "Of course, I have plenty of thrilling stories to share. Follow me, and I'll regale you with all the details," she said enthusiastically.

"Big Sister Jing'er, I plan to see Grandfather first. Let's catch up later," Zhou Yuan politely declined her offer.

"Very well, then allow me to accompany you. My father is currently discussing matters with our grandfather in the study," Zhou Jing'er quickly suggested, eager to spend time with Zhou Yuan.

Helpless, Zhou Yuan could only agree, silently noting in his heart how Zhou Jing'er's personality remained unchanged even after two years.

***

Within the Zhou Clan's grand residence, Zhou Xuan sat in his study, his gaze fixed on a middle-aged man with a robust physique. This man bore a striking resemblance to Zhou Ling'er; he was Zhou Hao, her father, and also Zhou Yuan's uncle.

"Father," Zhou Hao began, his expression heavy, "over the last two years, Ling'er and I have searched tirelessly, but we still couldn't find any cure for Little Yuan's condition. I'm sorry." His face displayed an unmistakable discomfort.

Zhou Xuan's expression softened as he listened to Zhou Hao's words.

He placed a comforting hand on his son's shoulder and spoke with a calm tone. "It's alright, Ah Hao. You and Ling'er have done everything you could." 

Two years ago, Zhou Xuan had entrusted Zhou Hao with a mission to venture beyond the borders of the Xue Empire in search of a method to detoxify the Extreme Yin Bone-Chilling Poison that afflicted Zhou Yuan. He even along his daughter to show her the world outside the clan. However, their efforts had yielded no results, leaving them with a sense of frustration and disappointment.

Zhou Hao nodded, his eyes filled with determination. "Father. I won't give up on finding a solution for Little Yuan's condition. We should keep searching and exploring every possibility. He is the son that my elder brother left behind. I'll definitely protect him." 

Zhou Hao's expression was stiff as he hesitated. "Father, should we ask that woman for help?"