Lingxuan guided Su Qingyue through the bustling streets of the city. The morning sunlight danced across the rooftops and cobblestone paths, glinting off the windows of the small shops they passed. Children played in the alleys, chasing each other with laughter, and merchants called out to advertise their goods. Despite the commotion, Lingxuan moved with calm confidence, his black robes flowing elegantly with each step.
"Come," Lingxuan said softly, his voice steady and reassuring. "Let's go to a shop. You can rest there for a while."
Su Qingyue hesitated for a moment, glancing around as if the world itself were uncertain and threatening. Her chest rose and fell rapidly, a faint sheen of sweat on her forehead from the chase. Finally, she nodded. "Alright," she said quietly, her voice almost lost amidst the bustling city sounds.
The shop they entered was small but cozy, its wooden sign swaying slightly in the morning breeze. Inside, the smell of freshly baked bread and herbal tea filled the air. The proprietor, an elderly woman with a warm smile, greeted them politely. Lingxuan bowed slightly in acknowledgment before guiding Su Qingyue to a corner seat where she could sit comfortably.
"Sit here," he instructed gently. "Rest your legs. You must be tired from running."
Su Qingyue obeyed, sinking into the chair with a relieved sigh. Her dark eyes scanned the room, taking in the simple wooden furniture, the baskets of fresh bread, and the steaming cups of tea set on the counter. There was something comforting about this place—a quiet sanctuary away from the chaos of the streets.
Lingxuan leaned against the table across from her, his black hair slightly ruffled by the wind from earlier. His sharp black eyes softened as he studied her, sensing her unease and determination. "Tell me," he began carefully, "why did you run away from your engagement with Xuan Yue?"
Su Qingyue's lips pressed into a thin line, and she avoided his gaze for a moment. Lingxuan remained patient, giving her the space she needed to speak. Finally, she lifted her eyes to meet his, her expression serious yet tinged with vulnerability.
"Because… I don't like him," she said quietly, her voice firm despite the underlying fear that still lingered. "I never agreed to marry him, and I refuse to live a life dictated by someone else's whims."
Lingxuan's gaze narrowed slightly, his mind processing her words carefully. She has courage… and clarity. Very few people would dare defy a powerful lord like Xuan Yue. He inclined his head slightly, acknowledging her resolve. "I see," he said after a moment. "To me, Xuan Yue seems… handsome and seemingly respectable. Some might even call him admirable."
Su Qingyue let out a small, bitter laugh, shaking her head. "No," she said firmly. "He is nothing like what he appears to others. He may seem handsome and polite on the outside, but his nature is cruel. He delights in humiliating the weak and exerting power over those who cannot resist him. I cannot, and will not, marry such a man."
Lingxuan's eyes widened slightly, a flicker of surprise crossing his usually composed face. He had heard of Xuan Yue before, but this was the first time he was told of the man's true character. So this is the truth behind the stories… he thought. His lips pressed into a thin line as he considered her words, realizing the gravity of her situation.
"Is that so…" Lingxuan murmured, his voice quieter now, thoughtful. "Then it makes sense why you ran. I… understand your decision."
Su Qingyue's gaze softened slightly, and she gave him a small nod. "I had no choice. If I stayed, I would have been trapped under his control, living a life I did not choose. I couldn't let that happen."
Lingxuan leaned back slightly, folding his arms as he considered the situation further. His mind reflected on the power dynamics at play, the responsibilities of a lord like Xuan Yue, and the courage it took for someone like Su Qingyue to resist. "Rest here for now," he finally said, his voice calm but firm. "You've been through a lot, and it's important to regain your strength. We can discuss your next steps later."
Su Qingyue relaxed slightly at his words, feeling a sense of security she hadn't known in days. She took a slow breath, her body still tense from the chase, and allowed herself to sink deeper into the chair. The room was warm, quiet, and safe—an unexpected haven amidst the turmoil of her life.
Lingxuan observed her silently for a moment, then spoke again. "You showed great courage today, running from danger and refusing to submit. That alone tells me a lot about your character. Not many would dare do what you did."
Su Qingyue looked at him, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. "I… I only wanted to survive and make my own choices. I did not expect anyone to intervene on my behalf."
Lingxuan's lips curved slightly in a subtle, approving smile. "Perhaps it was fate that led me here. Sometimes, help arrives when it is most needed. Today, it came in the form of a friend… and perhaps something more."
Su Qingyue's eyes widened slightly at his words, uncertainty and curiosity mixing in her gaze. She had never experienced such calm authority combined with unexpected kindness. Lingxuan's presence was reassuring, his power undeniable, yet he carried it with a gentleness that contrasted sharply with the harshness of Xuan Yue.
Lingxuan gestured toward a small table where cups of warm herbal tea sat, steam curling into the air. "Drink some tea. It will help you relax. I will stay here until you feel ready to speak more."
Su Qingyue nodded and reached for the cup, letting the warm liquid soothe her tense body. As she drank, Lingxuan's gaze swept the room, alert yet calm, ensuring no threat lingered. The simple act of having someone protect her, yet not overbearing, gave her a sense of relief she had longed for.
After a few moments of quiet, Su Qingyue finally spoke again. "You… you don't seem afraid of Xuan Yue," she said cautiously. "Most people I know… they would tremble at the mention of his name."
Lingxuan's eyes met hers directly, calm and unwavering. "Fear is natural, but it does not serve you well. What matters is understanding the situation and acting accordingly. Today, you acted wisely by running. That was the right choice."
Su Qingyue felt a swell of respect and gratitude. "Thank you," she murmured. "I… I don't know how to repay you for helping me."
Lingxuan's expression remained composed, almost casual, yet his aura of power hinted at the depth of his capabilities. "No repayment is needed. Your safety is enough. But I suggest you stay here for a while, regain your strength, and plan your next move carefully. The world is not always kind to those who act alone."
She nodded again, finally allowing herself a genuine smile. The warmth of the shop, the safety of the environment, and Lingxuan's calm yet commanding presence combined to ease her worries. For the first time in days, she felt she could breathe without constant fear.
Lingxuan watched her quietly, noting her posture, her cautious movements, and the small but resilient glint in her eyes. Su Qingyue is clever, strong-willed, and determined. She will not bend easily… he thought. "Good," he said softly, almost to himself. "Rest. We will figure out what comes next together."
As the sun climbed higher outside, bathing the streets in golden light, Lingxuan allowed the moment to linger. For now, Su Qingyue was safe, and he had gained not only a new ally but someone whose courage and spirit reminded him of the importance of justice, choice, and protection.
The city outside bustled on, unaware of the subtle power present within the small shop. Lingxuan remained calm, alert, and ready—prepared to defend her from any further threat, while letting her recover. Su Qingyue, in turn, began to feel the first stirrings of trust and relief, knowing that her flight from danger had led her to someone capable, strong, and unexpectedly gentle.
Time seemed to slow in that small shop, the world outside continuing without pause. Within, Lingxuan and Su Qingyue sat together—one a master of power, the other a runaway noblewoman—but both beginning a chapter that would intertwine their fates in ways neither yet understood.
Lingxuan finally leaned back, letting his aura relax just slightly, yet still exuding an unshakable calm. "Drink your tea, Su Qingyue. You've done well to come this far, and it's time to regain your strength. Everything else… we can handle together, one step at a time."
Su Qingyue's eyes softened as she looked at him, the weight of her flight momentarily lifted. She could sense not just strength, but judgment, kindness, and understanding emanating from him. For the first time, she dared to believe that perhaps her future did not have to be dictated by fear, but by her own choices—and someone capable of protecting her as well.
Outside the small shop, the city streets were alive with the sounds of morning activity. Children ran and laughed, chasing each other in the open courtyards, their carefree energy filling the air with life. Lingxuan, noticing a group of children playing nearby, allowed a rare smile to cross his face.
"Come," one of the children called, waving their hands excitedly. "Master Lingxuan, play with us!"
Lingxuan's black eyes softened, and he nodded, his imposing aura slightly easing as he approached the children. "Very well," he said calmly, his voice carrying a gentle authority. The children squealed with joy as he joined their game, tossing a small ball and letting them chase after it, their laughter echoing through the streets.
Meanwhile, inside the shop, Su Qingyue remained seated, sipping her tea. The warmth of the drink helped her relax after the morning's chaos. She felt safer here, though her heart still held a cautious alertness. The peaceful environment allowed her to let her guard down just slightly, and she closed her eyes for a brief moment, savoring the quiet.
Suddenly, a small voice interrupted her thoughts. A young boy, no older than ten, peered up at her from across the table with wide, curious eyes. "Sister," he asked innocently, "do you like Brother Lingxuan?"
Su Qingyue's eyes snapped open in shock. Her tea cup trembled in her hand, and a small amount of tea spilled, splashing across the table. She sputtered, blinking rapidly, her face turning a faint shade of red. "W-What… what makes you say that?" she stammered, her voice betraying her sudden embarrassment.
The young boy grinned, unbothered by her reaction. "Brother Lingxuan is handsome and kind," he said with certainty, his eyes shining. "He always helps people in trouble, and he's so perfect. I can tell… he's amazing! That's why I thought maybe you like him too."
Su Qingyue's cheeks burned hotter, and she hastily set her tea cup down, trying to regain her composure. She looked away, flustered, and crossed her arms. "I… I don't know what you mean," she replied, her voice quieter, almost a whisper.
The boy, oblivious to her embarrassment, continued with a gleeful expression. "It's obvious! You were staring at him when he was helping you earlier. He's not just strong, he's gentle too. I think anyone would like him!"
Su Qingyue's mind raced, recalling the morning's events—the chase, the moment Lingxuan had rescued her, his calm yet commanding presence, and the way he had effortlessly subdued her pursuer. She felt a mixture of admiration and confusion. He is… different from anyone I've ever met, she thought, trying to deny the flutter in her chest.
Meanwhile, the laughter and shouts of children outside reminded her that life continued normally for others, even as her own life had been upended. She glanced toward the window where Lingxuan was playing with the children, the sunlight catching his black robes and making them ripple like liquid shadow. He moved with an effortless grace, commanding attention without trying, naturally drawing admiration from those around him.
Su Qingyue couldn't help but glance back at the young boy, whose innocent eyes were still fixed on her, awaiting a response. "Y-You… you don't know what you're saying," she murmured, her voice softer, a slight smile tugging at the corner of her lips despite her embarrassment.
The boy tilted his head, still grinning. "I do! He's really amazing. I've never seen anyone like him. You're lucky he saved you!"
Su Qingyue looked down at her hands, trying to calm the sudden warmth rising in her face. Lucky… yes, I am lucky, she thought. She hadn't expected to meet someone like Lingxuan—someone strong, kind, and capable of changing the course of her day in a single moment.
The boy, sensing her hesitation, leaned closer and whispered conspiratorially, "If I were you, I'd pay more attention to him. He's special, you know. Really special."
Su Qingyue blinked, a mixture of surprise and embarrassment flooding her senses. She coughed lightly, regaining her composure, though her heart still fluttered uncontrollably. "I… I see," she managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper.
The boy patted her hand lightly before scampering off, leaving Su Qingyue alone with her thoughts. She looked out the window again, watching Lingxuan toss the ball to a child who ran to catch it, the sunlight catching the strands of his black hair and highlighting the sharp yet gentle lines of his face. She couldn't deny it—his presence was overwhelming, his kindness undeniable, and his strength awe-inspiring.
For a moment, she let herself imagine a life where such a man was more than a savior—a companion, a protector, perhaps even something closer. The thought both excited and terrified her. He is extraordinary… but can someone like me ever be worthy of his attention?
Lingxuan's laughter carried faintly through the air as he played with the children, unaware of the silent, introspective gaze directed toward him. Su Qingyue sipped her tea again, letting the warmth settle her nerves, yet her mind remained preoccupied with thoughts of the young Heavenly Immortal who had changed the course of her morning—and perhaps, her life.
The simple, innocent comment from the young boy had unearthed feelings she wasn't yet ready to confront. And as she watched Lingxuan move with effortless grace, she realized that this encounter was just the beginning of something far greater than herself.
The sun dipped lower toward the horizon, casting long shadows across the bustling streets of the city. The once-bright morning had mellowed into the soft hues of evening, and the air was filled with the gentle sounds of merchants closing their shops and children's laughter fading into the distance.
Lingxuan stood in the open courtyard where the children had been playing. His black robes swayed lightly in the evening breeze, his presence calm yet commanding. "Alright, everyone," he said, his voice gentle but firm. "It's getting late. Go home before your parents begin to worry."
The children reluctantly stopped their games, their small faces marked with both disappointment and joy from the day's fun. "Yes, Master Lingxuan!" they chorused before scattering down the streets, their laughter echoing faintly in the distance as they hurried home.
Lingxuan watched them go, a faint smile brushing his lips. He turned to leave, planning to return to the sect after the day's excursion, when his sharp eyes caught sight of a familiar figure lingering in the shop nearby.
Su Qingyue.
She was seated quietly, sipping her tea, her posture tense yet composed. Lingxuan approached, his footsteps silent but precise, and gently inquired, "Why are you still here? It's getting late. You should head home."
Su Qingyue glanced up, her brown eyes reflecting both embarrassment and concern. "If I go home now… they will be angry," she said softly, her voice tinged with worry. "I cannot return yet."
Lingxuan's gaze softened immediately. He could sense the anxiety and the weight of her predicament. He considered her situation carefully. She cannot return home safely, yet she has nowhere else to go…
After a brief pause, he spoke with calm authority, yet warmth in his tone. "Then come with me. You can stay at the sect for the night. It will be safe, and you won't have to worry about them."
Su Qingyue blinked, startled by his offer. "The… sect?" she asked cautiously, her mind racing. "But… will that not be inconvenient? I don't wish to trouble anyone."
Lingxuan shook his head gently. "It will not be inconvenient. You need rest and protection tonight. Worrying about others' anger will only tire you further. The sect is secure, and you will be safe there. Come with me."
Her gaze met his, and for a moment, she saw not just the calm and commanding presence of a Heavenly Immortal, but also a subtle kindness and understanding that was rare in her experience. His words carried no hidden motives—only genuine concern for her well-being.
Su Qingyue hesitated, then nodded slowly. "Alright… I will go with you," she whispered, relief mixing with a hint of apprehension.
Lingxuan offered his hand gently. "Then let us go. The journey is short, and the sect awaits to welcome you safely."
The streets were bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun as they departed. Lingxuan led the way with measured, calm steps, his presence reassuring. Su Qingyue followed closely, feeling the weight of the day lift slightly with each step, comforted by the certainty that she would not face the night alone.
By the time they arrived at Azure Cloud Sect, the sun had dipped below the horizon completely, leaving only the soft glow of lanterns lighting the pathways. The sect was quiet, serene, and secure, a stark contrast to the tension and fear Su Qingyue had experienced earlier in the day.
Lingxuan turned to her once they reached the entrance, his black robes swaying lightly in the evening breeze. "You are safe now," he said simply. "Rest here tonight. Tomorrow, we will consider your next steps."
Su Qingyue's lips curved into a faint, grateful smile. For the first time that day, she felt a sense of calm and security. "Thank you," she murmured. "I… I don't know how to repay your kindness."
Lingxuan's expression remained composed, almost casual, yet his aura exuded a quiet strength. "No repayment is necessary. Rest, and gather your strength. Everything else can wait until tomorrow."
With that, he led her into the sect, the lanterns casting warm light over the stone pathways. Su Qingyue followed silently, feeling a newfound sense of safety and, perhaps, the first glimmer of trust in someone outside of her narrow, controlled world.
That night, within the secure walls of Azure Cloud Sect, Su Qingyue would sleep peacefully for the first time in days, while Lingxuan ensured her safety with the calm vigilance of a Heavenly Immortal. The city outside continued its nightly rhythm, unaware of the quiet guardianship within the sect, and the new bond forming between two souls whose paths had unexpectedly crossed.
As the evening deepened, the quiet of Azure Cloud Sect was punctuated by the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant calls of nocturnal birds. Tianyu had just finished his training with the disciples and was about to return to his quarters when a subtle unease prickled at him. Lingxuan had not yet returned, and the usually punctual master's absence made him restless.
He walked briskly through the courtyard, calling out softly, "Lingxuan… are you back yet?" His voice carried lightly through the dim lantern-lit paths.
In the distance, he finally saw a familiar figure walking steadily toward the sect gates—Lingxuan. But beside him was someone unusual. A young woman with flowing, shimmering white hair and striking blue eyes, her presence serene yet radiant, trailing lightly behind Lingxuan.
Tianyu paused, his eyes narrowing slightly as he whispered under his breath, "Lingxuan… is that… your lover?" His tone was teasing, though tinged with genuine curiosity.
Lingxuan glanced at him briefly, his expression calm and unbothered. "No," he replied quietly. "Her family has troubles, and she could not safely return home. That's why I brought her here."
Tianyu's brow relaxed, understanding immediately. "Ah… I see," he murmured softly. "Then it is not as I feared. She is in good hands, then."
Lingxuan's black eyes softened as he led Su Qingyue through the gates. "Tianyu," he said, his voice even, "this is Su Qingyue. She will be staying here for the night. I wanted you to meet her."
Tianyu's gaze shifted to Su Qingyue. Her white hair shimmered in the lantern light, and her blue eyes shone with a mixture of apprehension and curiosity. Even seated quietly, there was a subtle strength in her posture, a quiet dignity despite her recent ordeal.
"It's nice to meet you," Tianyu said politely, inclining his head slightly. His expression was warm, welcoming, and without the slightest hint of mockery. "I am Tianyu. Master Lingxuan has brought you here for your safety. You are welcome at Azure Cloud Sect."
Su Qingyue's eyes widened slightly, taken aback by the warmth in his tone. "Thank… thank you," she said softly. "I… I am Su Qingyue. I appreciate your kindness."
Lingxuan nodded subtly, then gave a small, approving glance at Tianyu. "She will be staying for tonight. Ensure she feels safe and comfortable," he instructed, his tone calm yet carrying authority.
Tianyu inclined his head again, acknowledging Lingxuan's words. "Of course. I will make sure she has everything she needs."
Su Qingyue hesitated for a moment, still absorbing the presence of the two powerful cultivators before her. She had expected uncertainty, perhaps coldness or suspicion, but instead, she found warmth, authority, and genuine care. For the first time in days, she felt truly safe.
Lingxuan's sharp black eyes scanned the courtyard, ensuring no lingering threat remained. Then, relaxing slightly, he allowed himself to step back, giving Tianyu the responsibility of welcoming her properly. "I will return shortly," he said. "For now, stay with her, and make sure she adjusts to the sect environment."
Tianyu smiled faintly, his brown eyes reflecting understanding and reassurance. "You can count on me," he said, stepping closer to Su Qingyue. "I'll guide you through the sect. Don't worry. You are safe here."
Su Qingyue looked up at him, a faint blush rising to her cheeks, but she nodded. "Thank you… Tianyu," she murmured, her voice steadying as she felt the weight of the day slowly lift.
Lingxuan observed the exchange silently, the corners of his lips hinting at a faint smile. For now, Su Qingyue was safe, the sect was calm, and his trusted companion Tianyu had taken the first step in making her feel at home. The evening lanterns glimmered around them, casting warm light over a quiet courtyard, and a sense of new beginnings hung subtly in the air.
It was a moment of calm after a storm, a gentle prelude to the bond that was quietly beginning to form between these three souls—the protector, the trusted friend, and the one in need of refuge.
As Lingxuan led Su Qingyue through the main gate of Azure Cloud Sect, the evening lanterns glimmered softly, illuminating the wide stone pathway. The disciples who had gathered along the path immediately noticed their master returning—and not just Lingxuan, but a young woman walking beside him.
The moment they saw Lingxuan, the disciples instinctively straightened, their expressions filled with respect and awe. "Greetings, Master Lingxuan!" they called in unison, bowing low to show their reverence.
Su Qingyue's steps faltered slightly at first, taken aback by the level of attention. Her white hair shimmered in the lantern light, and the striking blue of her eyes reflected the flickering glow. The disciples' hushed whispers reached her ears, and she could feel their admiration, curiosity, and awe.
They think… she is Master Lingxuan's companion, she realized, a faint blush rising to her cheeks. Su Qingyue's heart fluttered slightly, both from the attention and from the weight of the assumptions the disciples were making.
Lingxuan walked calmly, his black robes swaying with each measured step. He offered no correction, allowing the impression to stand for now. It is best that she feels respected and safe, he thought. His presence alone commanded the attention and obedience of everyone around him.
Once they reached the guest quarters at the sect, Lingxuan paused and gestured toward a small, well-furnished room. "This will be your room for the night," he said calmly. "If you encounter any problems or need assistance, call for me. I will come immediately."
Su Qingyue nodded, still slightly shy but reassured by his words. "Alright… thank you, Master Lingxuan," she replied softly, her voice steady but carrying a hint of warmth.
Lingxuan inclined his head once, offering a faint smile, and then turned toward the door. As he closed it behind him, he allowed the soft click to mark the end of their interaction for the night. Though they were apart, the sense of protection and calm lingered in the room, giving Su Qingyue a feeling of security she had not experienced in a long time.
She looked around the guest room, taking in the simple yet elegant furnishings, the neat bedding, and the warm lanterns casting soft light across the walls. For the first time, I feel safe… she thought, a quiet sense of relief settling over her.
Outside the room, Lingxuan walked silently through the hallways of the sect, his mind at ease knowing she was secure. The disciples had returned to their quarters, still whispering about the appearance of the young woman, their respect for both Lingxuan and his guest evident in every glance.
Within the walls of Azure Cloud Sect, the evening settled into a calm rhythm. Su Qingyue prepared to rest, her thoughts drifting to the events of the day—the chase, the rescue, and now this unexpected refuge. For her, it was a night of quiet reflection, safety, and the beginning of a new chapter under the protection of a man whose presence was as imposing as it was reassuring.
Outside, the lanterns swayed gently in the evening breeze, casting a golden glow over the stone pathways of the sect. Inside her guest room, Su Qingyue allowed herself to breathe deeply, feeling the rare comfort of peace. Lingxuan's presence lingered in her mind—not beside her, but as a silent guardian.
And as the night deepened, the Azure Cloud Sect stood quietly, the soft murmurs of the wind through the trees the only sound, marking the start of an unexpected bond between the Heavenly Immortal and the young woman he had saved.
The guest room was quiet, bathed in the soft glow of lantern light. The shadows of the furniture stretched across the floor, creating a calm and serene atmosphere. Yet for Su Qingyue, calmness was the last thing she felt.
She sat on the edge of the bed, her hands clasped tightly in her lap, her white hair falling delicately over her shoulders. Her blue eyes stared at the wooden floor, reflecting the flickering lantern light as her mind replayed the events of the day.
Lingxuan…
The thought of him filled her mind incessantly. His black hair, his calm yet commanding presence, his strength, and the gentle way he had guided and protected her—all of it weighed heavily on her heart. She felt warmth creeping into her chest, and a faint heat rose to her cheeks as she remembered how effortlessly he had rescued her, how kind and composed he had been throughout the day.
Su Qingyue's lips parted slightly, and she whispered to herself, though no sound escaped, "Why… why do I feel this way? Is this… is this what it means to like someone?"
Her face burned with embarrassment, and she quickly buried her face in her hands, her heart racing. No… I can't be thinking about him like that… can I? she chastised herself, but the feelings would not be denied. The thought of being near him, of speaking to him again, made her pulse quicken.
She shifted in the bed, trying to lie down, but sleep would not come. Every time she closed her eyes, the image of Lingxuan's calm, black eyes returned to her mind. Every movement he had made, every word he had spoken, replayed vividly in her thoughts.
Do I… do I really like him? she asked herself again, her voice barely a whisper. The question hung in the air, unspoken yet undeniable. Her cheeks burned hotter, and she hugged her knees to her chest, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety that made rest impossible.
Her gaze drifted to the lantern across the room, its warm light flickering softly. I want to see him… I want to meet him again as soon as possible, she thought, her heart thumping with both anticipation and nervousness. The day had ended, but her thoughts of him had only grown stronger.
She let out a quiet sigh, realizing the depth of her emotions. For the first time in her life, she felt this restless longing for someone—someone who was not just kind or strong, but someone who had truly left an impression on her heart.
Su Qingyue lay back on the bed, tossing slightly from side to side, yet her eyes remained wide open. Sleep seemed impossible, not because of exhaustion, but because of the fluttering warmth in her chest whenever she thought of Lingxuan.
Finally, she sat up again, resting her chin on her knees. I have to see him again tomorrow… she resolved, determination mingling with shyness. Her cheeks burned at the admission, yet a small, private smile curved her lips. The longing, the embarrassment, the excitement—they all pointed to the same truth: she wanted to be near him, to see him, and perhaps, to understand the feelings that had taken root in her heart.
The night continued quietly, but within Su Qingyue's room, her thoughts swirled endlessly. One thing was clear—her heart had been stirred in ways she had never experienced before, and the image of Lingxuan, calm, strong, and caring, would not leave her mind so easily.
As the lantern flickered and the shadows shifted, she whispered softly to herself, almost like a vow, "I… I must see him tomorrow. I want to see him… soon."
And with that thought, though sleep still eluded her, a sense of anticipation and gentle warmth settled within her heart, carrying her through the long night.