The morning sun peeked through the ornate windows of the Tengbang Sect’s grand residence, casting golden light over the sprawling courtyard. The delicate scent of blooming jasmine and dewy grass drifted through the open balcony doors, accompanied by the faint chirping of birds.

Chi Chi stretched her arms, letting out a tiny yawn before wriggling out of the soft embrace of her silk blankets. Her small feet touched the cool wooden floor, sending a shiver up her spine as she scurried to the ornate washbasin.

Servants had already prepared warm water scented with lotus petals, and she eagerly splashed her face, feeling refreshed.

“Xiao Chi, are you awake?” A gentle knock followed her elder sister’s voice.

“I’m up!” Chi Chi chirped, rushing to open the door. The moment she did, her second eldest sister, Chi Lianhua, beamed at her. Dressed in flowing lavender robes, Lianhua knelt down, adjusting Chi Chi’s slightly dishevelled hair.

“Good! Breakfast is ready, and everyone is waiting for you,” Chi Lianhua said, taking her hand and leading her through the sprawling halls of their residence.

The dining hall was lively with the warm glow of lanterns and the sound of clinking porcelain. The scent of warm buns, fresh fruit, and savory broth filled the air. Chi Chi took her seat between Chi Yuyan and Chi Ren. Her eldest brother, Chi Liang, was already tearing into a meat bun, while Chi Yuyan sipped delicately from her tea.

“You’re late, Xiao Chi,” Chi Ren teased, setting down his chopsticks. “I was about to eat your share.”

“Nooo! That’s mine!” Chi Chi puffed her cheeks and reached for a bun, only for Chi Ren to snatch it first.

“Too slow.” He grinned mischievously.

Chi Liang sighed. “Ren, don’t bully her. Here, Chi Chi.” He passed her a fresh, steaming bun.

Chi Chi took a big bite, savoring the flavors. “Mmm! Liang-gege, you’re the best!”

Chi Ren pouted. “I was just joking.”

“Then share your meat skewer,” Chi Chi countered with a triumphant smile.

Chi Ren hesitated but eventually sighed, placing a skewer on her plate. “Fine. Only because you’re cute.”

After breakfast, they moved to the courtyard, where the servants had prepared an assortment of games. The morning sun warmed the stone pathways, and a gentle breeze carried the fragrance of plum blossoms.

Birds flitted between the branches of a great cherry tree that stood in the center of the courtyard, its pink petals drifting lazily in the wind.

“Let’s play shuttlecock!” Chi Yuyan suggested, holding up a feathered toy.

Chi Chi’s eyes sparkled. “Yes!”

They took turns kicking the shuttlecock into the air, laughter echoing around them. Chi Chi struggled at first but soon managed to keep it airborne for several kicks.

“Look, look! I’m getting better!” she cheered, twirling with excitement.

Chi Lianhua clapped. “Good job! Let’s try flying kites.”

Servants brought out colorful kites, each crafted with intricate designs representing their sect’s insignia.

Chi Chi’s kite—a pink bunny—danced happily in the wind as she ran through the courtyard, her laughter ringing in the crisp air. Her siblings cheered her on, adjusting their own kites against the strong winds.

The bright noon sun bathed the Tengbang Sect’s courtyard in a warm glow, casting long shadows from the trees as Chi Chi skipped along the stone path, her laughter filling the air. She wore a soft, light green dress, twirling in circles as she chased after a butterfly, her bare feet brushing against the cool grass.

“Xiao Chi, slow down!” Chi Yuyan called from the garden, watering the plants with delicate care.

Chi Chi paused, turning to see her third eldest sister with a gentle smile. “Catch me if you can!” she teased, darting away with a burst of speed.

Chi Yuyan raised an eyebrow, setting down the watering can. “You’re going to wear yourself out if you don’t stop running.”

“But I’m not tired!” Chi Chi giggled, glancing back at her sister. “Bet you can’t catch me!”

Chi Yuyan shook her head, amused. “Alright, little one. You’re on.”

With that, Chi Yuyan dashed after her, her light steps quickening as she neared Chi Chi. The two sisters raced around the courtyard, weaving between the tall garden hedges and running past the stone fountains, their laughter echoing through the serene space.

Finally, after a few minutes, Chi Yuyan caught up, wrapping her arms around Chi Chi’s waist and lifting her off the ground. “Got you!” she exclaimed triumphantly.

Chi Chi gasped, still giggling. “You cheated!”

“I did not!” Chi Yuyan replied, grinning. “You just didn’t think I could catch you. You need to be faster next time.”

“No fair!” Chi Chi pouted, but it was all in good fun.

From the side of the courtyard, Chi Lianhua, dressed in her usual lavender robes, watched the scene with fond amusement. “Are you two going to keep running, or can I finally get some peace?” she teased, holding a tray of freshly made dumplings in her hands.

“Dumplings!” Chi Chi squealed, rushing to her sister. “I’m starving!”

Chi Lianhua chuckled. “You can’t just eat and run, Xiao Chi. Sit down and have some tea first.”

Chi Chi huffed but complied, sitting on the mat and pouring herself a cup of jasmine tea. As she sipped, she glanced over at Chi Liang, who was sitting nearby sharpening a sword. “Liang-gege, come play with us! We’re having fun!”

Chi Liang looked up, his serious expression softening into a rare smile. “I’m afraid I’m too busy with my training, Xiao Chi. I’ll join in later.”

Chi Ren, who had been sitting on the other side of the courtyard, leaned over with a smirk. “If you’re not going to play, then can I have your dumplings?”

“Not a chance!” Chi Chi cried, clutching the plate protectively. “These are mine!”

The family gathered together as the afternoon continued, enjoying the simple pleasures of each other’s company. They ate, played, and teased one another, with Chi Chi in the center of it all, her laughter like music filling the air.

By midday, their games had left them famished. They settled down under the shade of the cherry tree for a light lunch of cold noodles with sesame sauce, fresh-cut watermelon, and honey-glazed pastries. Chi Chi sighed in contentment, leaning against Chi Liang’s side as they nibbled on sweet red bean cakes.

“Xiao Chi, how about we take you shopping?” Lady Meiyun suggested as she arrived, dressed in an elegant jade-green robe.

Chi Chi’s eyes widened with excitement but then hesitated. “Do I have to buy anything?”

Chi Wuying chuckled, patting her head. “You can get whatever you like.”

__________

The bustling marketplace was alive with energy. Stalls lined the streets, their colorful fabrics fluttering in the breeze, the scent of roasted chestnuts and sweet osmanthus cakes filling the air.

Chi Chi held onto Chi Lianhua’s sleeve, her wide eyes darting from one shop to another, feeling a little overwhelmed.

"Ah, our little Chi Chi looks nervous," Chi Liang chuckled, ruffling her hair. "Could it be she’s afraid of spending money?"

Chi Yuyan smirked. "Or is she scared we’ll dress her up like a little doll?"

Chi Chi pursed her lips. "...I am not scared."

Chi Ren grinned mischievously. "Then let’s start with new robes! Something bright, something elegant, something that screams, ‘I am the Tengbang Sect’s precious little sister!’"

Before she could protest, she was gently ushered into a grand clothing boutique. Silk gowns of every color lined the shelves, shimmering under the soft lantern lights. Lady Meiyun smiled as she lifted a delicate lavender robe embroidered with golden plum blossoms. "This one would look lovely on you, my dear."

Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

Chi Wuying, ever the composed father, simply nodded. "Something warm, too. We wouldn’t want her catching a cold."

Chi Chi hesitated as robe after robe was brought before her. They were beautiful, but—

"Try this one!" Chi Lianhua clapped her hands, holding up a red and gold outfit.

"No, no, this one suits her better!" Chi Yuyan waved a pastel pink dress covered in embroidered butterflies.

"Black and silver is better—mysterious, like a little martial arts prodigy!" Chi Ren declared, holding up a darker set.

Chi Chi, now utterly trapped, sighed. They were having too much fun.

One after another, she was dressed and spun around like a little doll, her siblings commenting, laughing, and making her try different styles. Some were elegant, some playful, and some—

"Why do I look like a tiny empress?" Chi Chi mumbled, staring at her reflection in a regal golden robe.

Chi Liang grinned. "Because you are our little empress!"

Despite herself, Chi Chi giggled. Their teasing was relentless, but deep down, she felt warm. This—this was family.

Finally, they settled on a few outfits, and Chi Chi, reluctant at first, eventually allowed herself to choose one she liked—a soft blue robe with silver embroidery.

Chi Wuying paid for everything without blinking, while Lady Meiyun gently adjusted Chi Chi’s hair, tucking a jade hairpin into place.

As they left the shop, Chi Chi held onto her new robes tightly, a soft smile on her lips.

Maybe… just maybe… shopping wasn’t so bad after all.

As soon as her family rounded the corner, a large toy shop appeared infront of them.

Grinning, Chi Ren said "This must be fate" and dragged Chi Chi inside.

The moment they stepped into the toy shop, Chi Chi felt overwhelmed. The store was filled with vibrant colors, soft plush toys stacked high on shelves, and wooden swords glinting under lantern light. Delicate paper kites hung from the ceiling, painted with swirling clouds and soaring dragons.

A faint scent of polished wood and fresh ink lingered in the air.

Chi Chi took a small step forward, her eyes darting around the room. She could hear the laughter of other children running between the aisles, their arms full of toys.

“Ah, I see someone is interested,” Chi Liang teased, watching her gaze flick from one shelf to another.

Chi Chi immediately shook her head. “I don’t need toys.”

Chi Yuyan smirked. “Then why are your eyes so big?”

Chi Lianhua giggled and grabbed her hand. “Come, come! Let’s look at the plushies first!”

Before she could protest, Chi Chi was gently dragged deeper into the shop, her feet shuffling against the polished wooden floor. Shelves upon shelves of stuffed animals lined the walls, each one more adorable than the last.

Chi Ren plucked a large, fluffy fox plush from a nearby shelf and pushed it into her arms. “This one looks just like you—small and soft.”

Chi Chi huffed. “I am not small and soft.”

Chi Ren smirked and ruffled her hair. “Of course not, little one.”

Chi Yuyan picked up a tiny, chubby dragon plush and examined it. “This one is nice. It has a fierce face, just like when Chi Chi glares at us.”

“I do not glare!” Chi Chi protested, only for her siblings to burst into laughter.

Meanwhile, Lady Meiyun was watching with a knowing smile. She reached for a delicate white bunny plush with embroidered eyes and held it out to Chi Chi. “What about this one, dear? It reminds me of you.”

Chi Chi stared at the bunny for a long moment, her fingers hesitantly brushing against its soft fur. She liked it—but buying it felt unnecessary. “I don’t want to waste money…”

Chi Wuying, who had been silently observing, finally spoke. His voice was gentle yet firm. “Chi Chi, our sect has enough wealth to last 6000 generations. Buying you a few toys won’t even make a dent.”

“But—”

“No buts,” Chi Liang said, stacking even more toys into her arms. “This fox, this bunny, and—oh, this little tiger looks nice too. It suits you.”

Chi Chi let out a small sigh as the pile in her arms grew. “Why do I need so many?”

“Because you’re our baby sister,” Chi Yuyan said simply, as if that explained everything.

Despite her protests, they left the shop with Chi Chi carrying her new stuffed bunny and a tiny wooden sword rattle, a playful gift from Chi Ren.

She held them close, her heart warm.

After their shopping trip, they returned home, and Chi Chi spent the evening playing with her new treasures.

The courtyard shimmered under the moonlight, the cool evening breeze rustling the lanterns that lined the pavilion. The faint scent of night-blooming jasmine lingered in the air as Chi Chi stood barefoot on the smooth stone floor.

Before her, Chi Wuying, the strongest cultivator in the Tengbang Sect and her father, stood with his real sword in hand—his movements as fluid as flowing water. With each strike, his blade cut through the air effortlessly, glowing under the silver moon.

Chi Chi’s eyes sparkled with admiration. “Father, you look so cool!”

Chi Liang, who was lounging lazily on the pavilion steps, smirked. “Of course he does. That’s why everyone calls him the ‘Heavenly Sword’—did you only just notice, little one?”

Chi Chi pouted. “I always knew! But today, he looks extra cool!”

Chi Wuying chuckled, sheathing his sword. “Would you like to try?”

Chi Chi nodded eagerly, bouncing on her feet. “Yes! Teach me, teach me!”

With an amused glint in his eyes, Chi Wuying handed her the wooden sword. But the moment she lifted it, her arms wobbled. The practice sword wasn’t even heavy, but her form was all wrong.

Chi Ren, who had been watching from the side, whistled. “Careful, Chi Chi. If you hold it like that, you’ll end up hitting yourself before your opponent.”

Chi Chi’s cheeks puffed up. “I won’t!”

Chi Wuying, smiling at his daughter’s determination, stepped behind her and gently placed his hands over hers. “Too stiff. Relax your grip.” He adjusted her fingers, his deep voice calm and patient. “The sword isn’t a club. It should feel like an extension of your arm.”

Chi Chi furrowed her brows in concentration. “Like this?”

“Better,” her father said, his hands guiding her into a proper stance. “Feet apart. Keep your balance.”

She followed his instructions, but just as she was about to make her first swing, Chi Yuyan called out, “Try not to fall on your face, little one.”

Chi Chi turned to glare at her sister. “I won’t fall!”

Thud!

The moment she swung, her foot slipped, and she tumbled onto her back. The courtyard filled with laughter as Chi Chi groaned in embarrassment.

Chi Lianhua clapped her hands together. “Oh dear, our little warrior was defeated by the ground!”

Chi Chi huffed, crossing her arms. “It was a warm-up fall.”

Chi Wuying extended a hand to help her up, his warm chuckle rumbling in his chest. “Again.”

Determined, Chi Chi took a deep breath, grabbed her sword, and this time, when she swung—her form was steady. The movement wasn’t perfect, but it was much better.

Chi Wuying nodded in approval. “Well done, my little warrior.”

Chi Chi’s chest swelled with pride, but before she could bask in her triumph, Chi Ren smirked. “Congratulations! You’ve officially mastered one move. Only a million more to go.”

Chi Chi scowled, pointing her wooden sword at him. “Hmph! Just wait! I’ll master them all and then defeat you!”

Chi Ren grinned, raising an eyebrow. “Oh? I’ll be waiting, then.”

Laughter filled the courtyard, the moon shining down on the warm, teasing family. And as Chi Chi continued practicing under her father’s watchful eyes, she knew—one day, she really would dance with a sword just like him.

The Tengbang Sect’s garden was bathed in soft moonlight. Fireflies danced among the flowers, their golden light flickering in the darkness, and the faint scent of jasmine lingered in the breeze.

Chi Chi sat cross-legged on a silk cushion, her eyes sparkling as she reached out to catch a firefly between her tiny hands. Chi Liang leaned back against a pavilion pillar, sipping tea, while Chi Yuyan and Chi Ren engaged in a lighthearted game of throwing stones into a nearby pond, trying to outdo each other in making the biggest splash.

Chi Lianhua, ever the doting sister, sat beside Chi Chi, braiding her hair. “Little one, don’t you think it’s time for bed?” she asked with a knowing smile.

“No,” Chi Chi replied firmly, hugging a plush bunny to her chest. “Not tired.”

Lady Meiyun, seated gracefully on a woven mat, let out a soft chuckle. “Not tired? But your yawns say otherwise, my dear.”

Chi Chi quickly covered her mouth. “That wasn’t a yawn! It was… just a deep breath!”

Chi Wuying, who had been watching silently, smiled. “A deep breath, hm?”

Chi Yuyan smirked. “Then why are your eyes drooping?”

“They’re not!” Chi Chi pouted, hugging her bunny tighter. “I want to stay outside longer.”

Lady Meiyun sighed playfully and reached for the guqin beside her. “Then how about a lullaby?”

As soon as she plucked the first string, Chi Chi shot up. “No! If you play, I’ll fall asleep for sure!”

Her siblings burst into laughter. Chi Ren leaned closer. “Then that means you are sleepy, aren’t you?”

Chi Chi turned away with a huff. “I’m not.”

Lady Meiyun smiled softly, her fingers continuing to dance over the strings. The melody was warm and gentle, like a mother’s embrace, wrapping the garden in its tender tune.

Chi Chi tried to fight it—she really did—but her eyelids felt heavier, her body sinking into Lianhua’s lap.

“Mother, stop playing!” she whined, her voice muffled against her plush bunny. “It’s not fair…”

Lady Meiyun chuckled, her music never stopping. “Life is never fair, my little one.”

Chi Wuying stood and effortlessly scooped Chi Chi into his arms, cradling her like she weighed nothing. “Come, it’s time for bed.”

Chi Chi struggled weakly but gave up almost instantly, her exhaustion finally winning. Her small fingers curled into his robe as she murmured, half-asleep, “But… I wanted to stay…”

Chi Wuying smiled down at her. “Tomorrow, my love. The stars will still be here tomorrow.”

And as Lady Meiyun’s music filled the night air, Chi Chi finally surrendered to sleep.

The room was dimly lit by the soft glow of a jade night lamp, casting gentle shadows over the silk curtains that swayed with the faint evening breeze.

Chi Chi lay nestled in her blankets, her small fingers swiping through the translucent golden interface of the system store.

Rows of items flickered before her eyes—mystical artifacts, powerful talismans, rare potions—but none of them were what she sought.

At the top corner of the interface, her balance gleamed in soft numbers: 100 points.

She had earned them after helping countless poor villagers, feeding their children, and offering them kindness where the world had given them none. Yet, now that she had gathered enough, she found herself hesitating.

“BunBun,” she whispered, her voice quiet so as not to disturb the sleeping night.

The fluffy white creature materialized at her side, floating lazily in the air, his long ears twitching. “Mmm? What is it, host? Ready to spend your points?”

Chi Chi tapped her chin, her eyes thoughtful. “Do we have a skill that lets me control those who fall for me?”

BunBun froze mid-air, his ears shooting up in alarm. His beady eyes widened. “...That’s against the rules.”

Chi Chi blinked. “I’m not talking about forcing people to fall in love with me.”

BunBun squinted at her suspiciously. “Then what exactly are you talking about?”

Chi Chi turned on her side, propping her head up with one hand. “You see,” she explained patiently, “when people are at their lowest, when they’ve lost all hope and someone reaches out and saves them, they tend to fall in love with their savior. It’s not something unnatural—it’s just how humans work. Gratitude turns into admiration, admiration into dependence, and then… love.”

BunBun bobbed in the air, tilting his head. “And you want to… stop that?”

Chi Chi nodded. “I don’t want to reject people cruelly, but I also don’t want romantic feelings to grow just because I helped someone in their darkest moment. I want a skill that makes sure that, if I don’t want to, their feelings for me will never go beyond that of a close friend or a best friend.”

BunBun’s little nose twitched. He stared at her for a long moment before sighing. “...There’s no such skill in the store.”

Chi Chi frowned. “Oh.”

“But,” BunBun continued, stretching out his tiny paws, “I can submit a request for it to be created. It’ll take some time, though.”

A small smile tugged at Chi Chi’s lips. “That’s great. Just let me know when it’s available.”

BunBun yawned. “Got it. Now sleep, host. You’ll get wrinkles if you think too much before bed.”

Chi Chi giggled, closing the system screen with a soft flick of her fingers. She let her head sink into the plush pillows, warmth wrapping around her as her eyelids fluttered shut.

As the night deepened, the gentle rhythm of her breathing filled the quiet room, and BunBun, now curled up at her side, blinked his tiny eyes before murmuring, “What a strange host…”

And with that, both of them drifted into slumber.