4.54 Kunlun Mirror

When Heimo emerged from the bath, he had changed out of his white robes to his signature black and gold robes, his hair tied into a high ponytail with a gold ribbon, the hairpin dangling along with his long jet black hair. For a split second, it was like the arduous ten years didn't exist and Heimo was still the same Heimo, save for his thinner face and the more mature and somber way he carried himself. He walked to the back garden because he knew Luqiu Ning would be there and he was right on mark. There she was, reclining on a chair as she enjoyed the lukewarm sun, eyes softly closed. Time had changed the sickly nine years old to an elegant and sophisticated little lady and for a while, Heimo was struck with a sudden nostalgia. He spent a few moments simply gazing at the peaceful Luqiu Ning until the woman stirred, sensing his presence.

"Brother—" Her smile froze as soon as she caught sight of him, eyes opened wide in utter astonishment. "Oh…"