The Tushan foxes retreated. A pixiu might not be big enough a deterrent, but the presence of a mountain ghost was enough to make them think better of killing Lu Yun.

“You have to come get me in Qingqiu Mountain if you find the way home!” the little fox said pitifully. “I miss home, and I miss Yue Longsha and Zhu Yan...”

“I won’t abandon you.” Lu Yun petted her head while she undid the bell on her neck and handed it to Lu Yun.

“This is my greatest treasure,” she whispered into Lu Yun’s ear. “You can borrow it for now… Don’t forget to give it back to me once we go home!”

“This bell...” Lu Yun shook the bell gently. It jingled when tied to the little fox’s neck, but was silent in his hands no matter how hard he shook...