22 Misfortune

"A proposal?" The Golden Tortoise was stunned.

Feng Qian then tentatively proposed, "Would you like to join our family?"

The Golden Tortoise, taken aback by the suddenness of the request, stared at Feng Qian with an air of perplexity. "Join your family?" it echoed, struggling to find the right words to respond.

Feng Qian's inviting gesture appeared to perplex the Golden Tortoise further, and it hesitated before speaking. "You see, you can take the Phoenix, but I'm not sure if I can... I have a rather complicated situation," confessed the Golden Tortoise.

"In what way?" inquired Feng Qian, concerned about the Golden Tortoise's plight.

The Golden Tortoise, visibly pensive, began to explain, "I possess the Misfortune Trait—a trait associated with the Black Tortoise bloodline. In our family, the Black Tortoise is a symbol of misfortune, capable of bringing great adversity to those around us."

A sense of sorrow and despair enveloped the Golden Tortoise's words, revealing the burden it had carried. "Because of this, I was chased away by my family, for fear that my presence would herald misfortune upon them."

Feng Qian's eyes widened in comprehension, understanding the weight of the Golden Tortoise's predicament. "But surely, that doesn't define who you are," Feng Qian asserted with empathy.

The Golden Tortoise shook its head gently. "I understand, but I cannot ignore the potential risks I might bring to others. I've always been cautious of getting close to anyone, lest my misfortune befall them —Yet even after being careful I have caused Phoenix a lot of trouble."

Feng Qian's compassionate gaze softened. "We respect your concerns and understand your hesitations. But let us assure you that we don't judge someone by their traits or lineage. What matters is the heart and intentions, and I can see that your heart is kind," Feng Qian conveyed with genuine earnestness.

The Golden Tortoise remained contemplative, its eyes glinting with a mix of hope and uncertainty. "Your kindness and words are touching, but I fear I may bring adversity to you, your sister, and even the Phoenix," it lamented.

"We are not afraid," Feng Qian stated firmly. "We embrace who you are, and we believe that together, we can face any challenges that come our way. If you choose to join us, you'll always have our support."

The Golden Tortoise's gaze softened, appreciating Feng Qian's unwavering empathy. "Thank you for your kindness and understanding. I need some time to consider your offer."

Feng Qian nodded understandingly. "Take all the time you need. The choice will always be yours, and we'll respect whatever decision you make."

With a grateful nod, the Golden Tortoise retreated into contemplation, pondering over the complex prospect of joining Feng Qian's family despite the foreseen adversity.

Feng Qian watched on, hopeful yet understanding of the Golden Tortoise's plight, ready to accept whatever path it chose.

However...

Crash~~, BOOM~~

"ROAAR~~~"

Suddenly the appearance of a massive Red Dragon appeared in front of Feng Qian and the others

Rumble, Rumble~~

Crack, Crack, Crack~~

Accompanied by it, an earthquake occurred, the ground began to crack and spread rapidly creating large and deep holes, the volcano began to give signs of erupting.

"Th-This is… Misfortune… It happened again.." The Golden Tortoise paled and felt guilty about the situation they were in due to its Misfortune Trait.