Douluo Dalu: The Abandoned Child

It took longer for me to return to the academy than it had to reach Slaughter City. Without the Dragon Slaying Saber's flying ability, I was forced to travel by more mundane means. Though my new Asura Domain brought a sense of empowerment, it couldn't solve the basic logistical problem of long-distance travel. After two weeks of arduous running, I finally arrived at the academy.

The gates stood closed as always, but the usual buzz of activity was missing. The courtyard, usually with some staff members, was empty. No familiar faces greeted me, no welcoming shouts or hurried footsteps. For a moment, I wondered if I'd returned to the wrong place.

I continued walking deeper into the grounds, trying to make sense of the emptiness. Then I heard it, the faint sounds of laughter and conversation drifting from the main hall. As I approached, the sounds grew clearer. People were talking and cheering, a tone of celebration unmistakable in their voices.

What could they be celebrating? It couldn't possibly be my arrival. There was no way anyone could have predicted I'd return today. Curiosity piqued, and I decided to investigate. A mischievous smile spread across my face as I activated my 5th spirit ability: Camouflage. Instantly, my presence vanished from sight, undetectable to anyone, anyone except Grandpa.

Moving silently, I approached the source of the commotion. The main hall was alive with people, food, and decorations. Long tables were laden with dishes, and a small band played cheerful tunes while people danced and mingled. Slipping inside undetected, I grabbed a handful of snacks from a nearby table, It was nice to have some real food again. Munching quietly, I scanned the room.

At the head of the central table sat Dugu Bo with his unmistakable green robes and serene demeanor. Nearby, Uncle Dugu Xin and Liu Erlong danced joyfully. A little girl, no older than three, clung shyly to Liu Erlong's side. It took me a moment to recognize her, Dugu Yan. She'd grown so much in the two years since I'd last seen her.

I moved closer, savoring the moment. Just as I reached the edge of their circle, Grandpa's head snapped up, his eyes narrowing as they scanned the room. His perception was as sharp as ever. He'd detected me immediately, as expected of a Titled Douluo.

I grinned and deactivated my spirit ability, revealing myself right in the middle of the group. "It seems I got home just in time for the party," I said casually, popping another snack into my mouth. Then, with a cheeky grin, I added, "So… who died?"

The room fell silent for a brief moment before erupting with mixed reactions. Grandpa Dugu Bo let out a long-suffering sigh, realizing there was no intruder after all, and then chuckled. Uncle Dugu Xin didn't waste a second. Ignoring what I said entirely, he rushed forward to bury me in a bear hug.

"Bei! You brat! You're finally back," he exclaimed, his voice thick with emotion. "Two years! Two long years without so much as a word. Do you know how worried we were?"

I returned the hug, though the guilt of my prolonged absence tugged at me. "I'm sorry, Uncle," I said sincerely. "But as you can see, I'm perfectly fine."

Liu Erlong shook her head in mock exasperation. "Of course, you'd think we were celebrating someone's death, you crazy kid," she said, her eyes glinting with amusement. "No, Bei. We're celebrating because your uncle and I reached rank 77, and your grandpa broke through to rank 94 just a few days ago!"

I raised my eyebrows in genuine surprise. "Rank 94? That's incredible, Grandpa!" I said, looking at him with joy.

Dugu Bo gave a small smile. "All thanks to the immortal herbs you procured for us, Bei. They've accelerated our cultivation immensely. But enough about me. Look who's here."

He gestured toward the little girl hiding behind Liu Erlong. Dugu Yan peeked out timidly, her big eyes wide with curiosity and a hint of shyness. She clearly didn't remember me.

Uncle Dugu Xin stepped forward, scooping her up in his arms. "Yan Yan, this is your cousin, Bei. Do you remember him?"

The little girl shook her head but stared at me intently, her gaze filled with wonder. I offered her a warm smile.

"Hello, little snake," I said playfully.

Her eyes lit up at the nickname, and a giggle escaped her lips. "Little snake?" she repeated, her voice small and melodic.

I nodded. "That's right. You're the cutest little snake I've ever seen."

She giggled again, her shyness melting away. Uncle Dugu Xin laughed heartily. "Looks like you've already won her over."

The atmosphere lightened, and the family gathered around, laughing and talking as though no time had passed. The celebration continued, filled with warmth and joy. Though I had many stories to share, I decided to hold off for now. There would be time to catch up later. For the moment, I allowed myself to rest in the presence of my family, their laughter and love were more than welcome after the trials I'd endured.

As the party continued, Grandpa Dugu Bo pulled me aside. "Bei, you've grown stronger. I can feel it," he said, his piercing gaze searching mine.

I nodded, my expression turning serious. "I'll explain everything, Grandpa. But first, let's enjoy this moment."

He studied me for a moment longer before nodding. "Very well. But don't think you're off the hook. We'll talk soon."

"Of course," I replied, grateful for his understanding.

The celebration stretched long into the night, the warmth of family and shared achievements filling the air. For the first time in a long time, I felt at peace. But beneath the surface, many questions lingered. For now, though, those questions could wait. This was a moment to cherish, and I intended to make the most of it.