Zhang Nu, weve lived our whole lives in the village and never leftwe dont know the first thing about protective artifacts, Liu Hai said. And we definitely dont know how to draw talismans. Well have to rely on you for this.

Zhang Nu was stunned. He turned his gaze slowly toward Zhao Yang and sure enough, Zhao Yang didnt dare meet his eyes either. At that moment, Zhang Nu realized the truththey were all counting on him. Every one of them had pushed the burden onto his shoulders. It was obvious none of them had a clue what to do.

So you all really have no idea what to do next? he said flatly. What now? You think Im an expert in this stuff?

Ill have to go back and think about it. Drawing talismans isnt something you can just wing.

After hearing Zhang Nus response, Liu Hai and the others lowered their heads in silence. None of them had expected this outcome. Theyd assumed Zhang Nu would know what to do and had relied entirely on him. Now they couldnt help but feel guilty. They hadnt meant to force everything onto him.

Zhang Nu is being with us exhausting? Liu Hai asked quietly. We dont know anything. We leave everything to you. Im sorry.

Zhang Nu blinked, startled by Liu Hais tone. Why was he suddenly getting so sentimental?

Hed never blamed them for any of this. Not once. And he certainly never thought they were a burden. In fact, he was deeply grateful that they chose to stay with him.

Liu Hai, what are you talking about? Are you thinking of leaving us? he asked. Why would you say something like that? If none of you understand this stuff, then of course someone has to. Its fine if its me.

Liu Hai relaxed a little after hearing that. Zhang Nu truly didnt resent thembut for some reason, Liu Hai still couldnt shake the guilt growing inside him.

I dont know whats gotten into me, he admitted. I just feel so guilty. Like weve put everything on you and havent done a single thing to help.

Only then did Zhang Nu understand. So thats what this is about?

He gave a small laugh. Its nothing. Were a team, arent we? No need to overthink it.

When the time comes and were in real danger, well all face it together. Its not like you guys would ever leave me behind.

To him, taking on more responsibilities wasnt a burdenit just meant hed learn more skills. And in a world like this, being more capable meant having more chances to survive.

Theres nothing for you to apologize for. Honestly, Im lucky to have teammates like you.

If not for you guys, Id still be walking this road alone.

Liu Hai grinned, as if hed been waiting for Zhang Nu to say exactly that.

Meanwhile, Ling Xi had been watching them whisper to each other from across the room. Her eyes narrowed suspiciously, and she strode straight toward them.

What are you all talking about? Why didnt you tell me? she demanded.

The group froze, not sure how to respond. Zhao Yang, however, suddenly had a thought.

We were talking about telling Patron Fu that theres a YaoGuai in town, he explained. But were worried that if we do, he might get hurt. So we were wondering if theres any way to protect himmaybe with a talisman or artifact. s

When Ling Xi heard that, she nearly laughed. All that fuss over something so small?

If thats all, you couldve just told me, she said casually. What kind of artifact do you need? For protection or to attack?

Zhang Nu stared at her in disbelief, You actually have something like that on you? Youre not joking?

Of course I do, she replied, nodding. Why would I lie? What would I even gain from it? I think they were things my parents left for me though, I dont clearly remember the details anymore.