Upon hearing Lin Xiaos indifferent response, Ling Xi became visibly frustrated.

If I had known youd treat me like this, I wouldnt have bothered saving you! she huffed. Do you have any idea what wouldve happened if I hadnt stepped in? Youd all be dead by now! And instead of showing a little gratitude, you act like I owe you something?

Zhang Nu and the others could see how upset she was. Ling Xi still didnt understand Lin Xiaos condition, and they knew they had to explain.

Ling Xi, dont take it personally, Zhang Nu said gently. Lin Xiao isnt trying to be rude. He was born with an emotional detachment.

There are things we understand instinctively, but he doesnt. He doesnt feel emotions the way we do.

Ling Xis anger wavered as she turned to Lin Xiao, a hint of pity in her gaze. She had always assumed that everyone experienced emotions the same waythat everyone could. But it turned out that there were people who couldnt.

Wait really? she muttered. Thats thats kind of sad.

She let out a small sigh. Fine, I wont hold it against him.

Zhang Nu smiled at her understanding. Ling Xi was a rare kind of spirit, kind, and compassionate. If there were more like her, the world would be a better place.

The four of them followed Ling Xi back to her dwelling. The place was tranquil, eerily soit was as if she lived entirely alone. Zhang Nu, observing her youthful appearance, suddenly realized something.

Ling Xi, where are your parents? he asked. We havent seen any sign of them since we arrived.

At his words, Ling Xis expression dimmed. Zhang Nu immediately regretted asking.

They disappeared when I was very young, she admitted, her voice softened. Ive been looking for them ever since but Im too much of a coward to leave this place.

Zhang Nus heart clenched.

Coward? Was she joking? If not for Ling Xi, they would have died back there. She was anything but a coward.

Youre stronger than you think, he told her. If not for you, we wouldnt have escaped today.

Then, after a pause, he added, If you want, you could come with us. Well help you find your parents.

Ling Xis eyes widened. She hesitated, unsure if Zhang Nu was serious.

You really mean that? she asked, her voice wavering. I could leave with you? But Im not as strong as you guys

That doesnt matter. Zhang Nu shook his head. Strength isnt the only thing that counts. We all started somewhere. If you want to come with us, well grow stronger together.

For a moment, Ling Xi actually considered it. But before she could give her answer, Lin Xiao suddenly spoke.

Are you sure about this? he asked flatly, turning to Zhang Nu. Were struggling enough as it is. Now you want to bring along another burden?

Silence fell. Ling Xis eyes instantly welled with tears. She knew she wasnt strong, but to hear it so bluntly

Liu Hai, noticing her reaction, quickly stepped in.

Ling Xi, dont take it the wrong way, he said. Lin Xiao isnt looking down on you.

Hes worried. None of us are strong enough right now, and if we run into danger, we might not be able to protect you.

In fact, he thinks of himself as a burden, too.

Ling Xi clenched her fists, forcing back her tears. She wanted to believe Liu Hai. And deep down, she did believe him. Zhang Nu and the others werent bad people. If she doesnt go with them now, she will never meet people like them again. .

I get it, she murmured. I wont hold it against him.

But I wont stay weak. Ill work to get stronger. One day, Ill be strong enough to protect you guys.

Zhang Nu, Liu Hai, and even Lin Xiao couldnt help but smile.

Just focus on protecting yourself for now, Zhang Nu said. Well handle the rest.

Alright, he added, stretching his arms. Lets get some rest. Tomorrow we hunt.