Teasing

Shen Yuan smirked. "A few sparring challenges, perhaps?"

"Possibly," Shen Yuxin replied, her lips curving into a smile. "But nothing too serious. The Sect Leader won't allow anything that might harm you, especially given your recent Tribulation."

Shen Yuan chuckled. "I'll be fine, Mom. You worry too much."

Shen Yuxin sighed, resting her hand on his chest. "It's my job to worry. You're my everything, Yuan'er."

Shen Yuan placed his hand over hers, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "And I'll make sure you never have to worry about me."

For a moment, they sat in comfortable silence. Then Shen Yuan broke the quiet with a playful grin.

"Do you think they'll let me skip the speeches if I promise to light the flame really well?"

Shen Yuxin laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Not a chance, Yuan'er. You'll have to endure it like everyone else."