Morning sunlight streamed through the curtains, casting a warm glow on Grandma’s desk. The chirping of birds outside was a gentle contrast to the quiet of the room. The old desk lamp was still on, its light reflecting off the rows of books on the shelves. Grandma sat at her computer with a cup of warm tea in her hands, her face calm as always.

Suddenly, a clear email notification broke the silence. Grandma glanced at the screen, and the subject of an email immediately caught her eye:

From: Professor Li

Subject: Urgent! Kane Has Begun Moving!

Grandma opened the email, and the words appeared line by line:

"We have confirmed reports that Kane's men have started searching for fragments in several ancient sites across China. Their actions are very secretive. We must act immediately!"

Grandma’s face grew serious. Her hand gripped the mouse tightly, and her breathing slowed. The email brought her back to reality, pulling her out of her memories. The unfinished mission loomed before her again. She sighed deeply, her expression a mix of worry and the weight of responsibility.

By noon, sunlight filled the garden, and a soft breeze moved the curtains. Noah burst into the study, full of energy, with Xiaolong trotting behind him. He was about to share a funny story from school when he noticed something was wrong. Grandma’s eyes were fixed on the computer screen, her brow furrowed in deep thought.

“Grandma, what’s wrong?” Noah asked curiously, his voice full of concern.

Grandma quickly closed the laptop and took a sip of tea, trying to stay calm.

“Nothing,” she said softly. “Just some emails from old friends.”

But Noah wasn’t so easily fooled. He stood in front of Grandma with his hands on his hips, looking straight at her.

“Grandma, I know something’s up. You always tell me to be honest with family. Now it’s your turn.”

Grandma sighed and hesitated for a moment. Finally, she reopened the laptop and showed Noah the email.

Noah read it, his eyes widening as he looked back at Grandma.

“Kane? Is that the bad guy you told me about? He’s back?”

Grandma nodded, her voice heavy with worry.

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“Yes. They’re searching for the fragments. If they get them all, the consequences will be unimaginable.”

Noah clenched his fists, his voice firm with determination.

“Then we have to stop them! Grandma, let me help!”

Grandma shook her head sharply.

“No! You have no idea how dangerous this is! Kane’s men won’t hesitate to hurt anyone, especially someone connected to us.”

“But I’m different!” Noah stood tall, his eyes unwavering. “They won’t suspect a kid. I can do it!”

Grandma was at a loss for words. She looked at the young boy standing before her, torn between his logic and the danger she knew too well.

Grandma slowly got up and walked to the bottom shelf of the bookcase. She pulled out an old wooden box from the back and opened it. Inside was a faded black-and-white photograph. In the photo, a proud corgi stood in front of an ancient Chinese ruin, the scene behind it full of untold stories.

Grandma picked up the photo, her eyes soft with nostalgia. She sighed and spoke to Noah without turning around.

“This is Blaze, Xiaolong’s ancestor and the bravest member of our team.”

Noah stared at the photo in awe.

“Xiaolong’s ancestor? It went on adventures too?”

Grandma nodded, her voice filled with pride.

“Yes. Blaze saved all of us once. We were trapped in a stone cave and nearly ran out of air. Blaze used its sharp nose to find a hidden tunnel and saved the whole team. Without Blaze… we might not have survived. Xiaolong has inherited that same ability. I spent four years training him to use his magnetic sense to find fragments. I always knew this day might come.”

Noah looked at Xiaolong, who usually loved to cuddle and play. Now, he seemed to have a heroic aura. Noah gently patted his head, and Xiaolong looked up with bright, trusting eyes, as if to say, “I’m ready.”

Grandma hesitated, her voice quieter now.

“But this mission is so dangerous… I can’t let you take the risk.”

Noah took a deep breath and stepped forward. His gaze was steady and determined.

“Grandma, I’m not Blaze, and maybe I’m not as amazing as he was. But I have his courage. You’ve always told me that running away doesn’t solve problems. If you don’t want to face the regrets of the past, then let me do it. I won’t let you down!”

Grandma looked into Noah’s eyes and saw a reflection of her younger self and the fearless Blaze. She stayed silent for a moment, then let out a long sigh. Slowly, she handed the map and photo to Noah.

“Alright, Noah, I trust you. But remember, no matter what happens, you must keep yourself safe.”

The first rays of morning light filled the yard. The air carried a hint of farewell. Noah stood with his backpack full of supplies, and Xiaolong by his side, looking unusually spirited.

Grandma stood at the doorway, her expression both reluctant and firm.

“Remember, trust Xiaolong and protect yourself, no matter what.”

Noah nodded firmly.

“I won’t let you down, Grandma.”

The boarding announcement echoed through the airport. Noah held Xiaolong’s leash and walked toward the gate. The plane rose into the sky, cutting through the clouds. In the distance, the outline of the ancient Eastern land came into view, waiting for this young adventurer to begin his legendary journey.