"Food's ready! Time to eat!"
"What are you doing?" Duan Ning hissed, delivering a sharp kick to Chu Ruo’s leg under the table. "Have you been possessed?"
Chu Ruo let out a pained yelp. "Are you crazy? Why did you kick me... that hurts!"
"You're the crazy one," Duan Ning replied, her grin wide and mischievous. "Sitting there with your head in your hands, not saying a word. You didn't even move or offer a hand when they brought the dishes out. Where’s your situational awareness?"
"Hey, I—"
"What? Oh, I see," Duan Ning’s smile turned wicked. "Can't stomach your food without Xue’er at the table? You two really are inseparable. Tsk, tsk..."
"Bah, nonsense! I was... I was thinking about the Martial Arts Assembly tomorrow. *Cough, cough!*" As if punished for her lie, Chu Ruo began to choke. She pounded her chest and gulped down several mouthfuls of tea before she could breathe again. "You think everyone is like you? All you know is how to play. You don't act like a Third Protector at all."
She *was* thinking about the Assembly, but her mind was mostly occupied by her 'Little Scorpion.' She had told herself that tomorrow was a big day and she shouldn't disturb Nan Muxue’s rest, but even over lunch, her thoughts had drifted up to a certain guest room on the second floor. Mo Yang wasn't like Tian You; tonight, they truly had to sleep in separate rooms. *Ugh, my Xue’er... I won't even see her today...*
"Oho, listen to that. If anyone else said it, I might believe them. Me, playful? I bet if you added up all the disciples in the Hundred Flowers Palace, they wouldn't be half as playful as you, Holy Envoy Chu. But then again," Duan Ning leaned in with an ambiguous smirk, "you've spent so much time with Xue’er that you're starting to sound just like her. If I didn't know better, I’d think our Young Palace Master was lecturing me. Little Ruo, you really have a talent for being a male favorite. Tsk, tsk..."
Chu Ruo spat another "Bah" at her. "You’re the one suited to be a favorite! I’ve noticed the other Protectors are perfectly normal, but you... you’re just..."
"Just what?" Duan Ning interrupted, looking utterly self-satisfied. "Just lively, cute, interesting, wise, and sharp all in one? I am indeed one of a kind."
"Ugh, I haven't even eaten yet and I want to throw up. Is there a limit to your narcissism? You’re so shameless. Utterly shameless!"
Chu Ruo was sticking her tongue out to make a face when her smile suddenly vanished. Duan Ning was a true 'scorpion woman' in her own right—she had reached out and pinched Chu Ruo’s tongue with her chopsticks.
"What was that? I didn't quite catch it. Say it again, hmm?"
"Hurth... leth... go..." Chu Ruo whimpered. The women of the Hundred Flowers Palace were all lethal. Their methods of torment were endless, and their arrogance was a perfect match for Nan Muxue’s. *Just you wait. Revenge is a dish best served within three days.* "Let go of me, or... or I’ll tell my Mas—"
"She doesn't have time to deal with—" *Whish!*
A hidden projectile streaked through the air. Duan Ning, despite her boasting, was agile enough to dodge instantly. She spun around toward the source of the attack, only to see a white figure already standing firmly before them.
"So much noise. I could hear the two of you all the way in my room. This is Mo Yang. One is a Holy Envoy, the other a Protector. Where is your decorum?"
Nan Muxue’s face was expressionless and her tone was stern, but Chu Ruo was never one to follow the rules. She immediately scurried to Nan Muxue’s side. "She pinched my tongue with chopsticks! Look, it hurts so much. And just now, some soup splashed into my eye. It’s so uncomfortable..."
"I'm still standing right here! If you want to file a pillow-talk complaint, wait until you two are—"
*Whish, whish, whish!*
This time, a swarm of golden needles flew out. They were dense, but Duan Ning managed to dodge them with a graceful flourish. However, just as she finished her move, a gust of icy qi, shaped like a needle by internal power, struck her laughing acupoint.
Duan Ning’s face contorted as she burst into uncontrollable laughter. "Xue’er! Hahaha... You... you’re so biased... Hahaha! Unseal... unseal it for me... Hahahaha!"
Nan Muxue kept her hands behind her back. "Your tongue is too loose. It’s time you learned a lesson." She looked straight ahead. "Unseal her in one hour."
"Yes." No one ever dared to disobey the Young Palace Master of the Hundred Flowers Palace. Even if it was a joke, if she said one hour, it was one hour. Not a moment sooner.
"Master," Chu Ruo said, remembering to use the formal title since others were present.
"Come out with me," Nan Muxue commanded.
"Yes!"
As they left, Duan Ning, still laughing hysterically, tried to grab Yin Liuli. But Yin Liuli stepped back, avoiding her grasp. "Hahahaha... Liuli, haha, help... haha, unseal me... hahahaha!"
Yin Liuli supported her but made no move to help. Instead, she began to laugh as well. "You always let your mouth run wild. It’s about time someone put you in your place. We’ll talk again in an hour."
"You... hahaha... you won't... haha, help either... hahahahaha... you people... hahaha..."
***
"Master, where are we going? Is something wrong?" Chu Ruo asked as they walked. Nan Muxue had been so serious when she led her out. She was supposed to be resting and meditating in her room today. Something was definitely up.
Nan Muxue suddenly stopped. Chu Ruo stopped too, looking puzzled. "What is it?"
Looking at that face, Nan Muxue’s heart softened. Seeing no one around, she parted her crimson lips and asked, "What did you call me?"
"Mas...ter?" Chu Ruo replied. *Haven't I been calling you that? Before, when I called you Nan Muxue, you weren't happy and insisted I call you Master. Women are so hard to read, even if I am one.* "Is that wrong?"
Nan Muxue pinched her cheek. "What do you think?"
"Gentle, gentle! Then... then... Little Scorpion?"
"Chu Ruo, do you have a death wish?"
"Ow, take it easy! Let me think, let me think." After a few seconds of thought, Chu Ruo remained as dense as ever. She searched her brain and finally blurted out, "Nan Muxue..."
"Hmm?"
That meaningful hum made Chu Ruo feel like her life was in peril. It was... hard to describe. "It really hurts, Xue’er! Be a little gentler with my face..."
"Hmph." Nan Muxue released her, flicked her sleeves, and walked forward elegantly.
Chu Ruo hurried to catch up. "How did I offend you?" *Could it be she likes me calling her Xue’er? That must be it. But I don't dare say it out loud now, or I’ll be punished for sure.*
Nan Muxue didn't answer and continued walking in silence. Chu Ruo scratched her head and followed obediently. She wanted to take the other woman’s hand, but they were in public. If someone saw, there would be gossip. She had to endure.
They walked for five blocks without a word. Finally, Chu Ruo couldn't take it anymore. "What’s wrong? Did I make you angry again? Just say it, I’ll apologize."
"Don't ignore me..."
"I really didn't know which name was wrong. You used to demand I call you that..."
"Don't be mad..."
"Can I buy you some candied hawthorns?"
"..."
"Oh, for heaven's sake!" Chu Ruo had been talking the whole way, but Nan Muxue wouldn't engage. Finally, she ran ahead and blocked Nan Muxue’s path, arms spread wide. "What is it, really?"
Nan Muxue didn't respond or even look at her. This drove Chu Ruo frantic. Although she had been afraid of the 'Little Scorpion' before, ever since they reunited and established their relationship, Chu Ruo felt she was scared of her in a completely different way. Nan Muxue didn't have to say a word, or even cough; a single look—or the lack of one—was enough to make Chu Ruo’s heart race with panic. She found herself scurrying to please her. *Ugh, I’m so whipped. I have zero resistance against my Little Scorpion.*
She stepped closer. "I was wrong, okay? I was wrong, Xue’er!"
"Are you not afraid of gossip now?"
"Is that what you're angry about?" Chu Ruo explained hurriedly. "I'm not afraid of what people say about me. It's just that there are so many martial artists here. I’m afraid if they see us together, they’ll say things that are harmful or unpleasant for you to hear..."
"Nonsense." The wind caught the stray hairs on Nan Muxue’s forehead, making her look spirited and bold. "Since when does Nan Muxue care about such things?" Her sharp edges only softened for one person. "Foolish."
Her tone was so tender that Chu Ruo hopped with joy. "So, you're not mad?"
"When did I say I was mad? You really are dim-witted..."
"That’s not fair," Chu Ruo interrupted as soon as she saw the anger had vanished. "You’ve been scaring me a lot lately..."
Her cheek was pinched again. "On purpose. I did it on purpose."
"...Then, can I just say I misspoke?"
"Spineless. You’re getting dimmer by the day. Utterly useless."
As soon as the grip on her face loosened, Chu Ruo reverted to her old self. "It’s too late to be disgusted now. You’ll never get rid of me. I’m going to stick to you like a poultice for the rest of my life."
Those last words echoed in Nan Muxue’s mind. *A lifetime.* She used to think life was so long, tedious, and meaningless. Now, it felt so short. "Ruo’er."
"Yeah? What is it?"
The woman looked at her with total focus, her eyes reflecting only Chu Ruo. Nan Muxue smiled. "Nothing."
"You’re very strange today. Something’s not right. You’re acting very out of character." Chu Ruo reached out to feel her forehead. "Do you have a fever?"
Her hand was slapped away. Chu Ruo continued to mutter to herself, "No fever... then what’s wrong with you?"
"Take me fishing."
"Ah... huh?" Chu Ruo started feeling her own forehead. Had she heard correctly? "Aren't you supposed to be resting to build up your energy?" The Little Scorpion was a famous workaholic. When others practiced, she practiced. When others rested, she still practiced. Usually, Chu Ruo had to drag her out to play. When had she ever suggested fishing?
If it were the old days, with such a major event tomorrow, she certainly wouldn't have come out. But now, everything had changed. Nan Muxue found she couldn't settle her mind. Whenever that person wasn't by her side, she felt restless and unable to concentrate. She was supposed to be resting, but the moment she heard that voice, she couldn't help herself. Especially when she heard her being bullied—even if it was a joke, even if it was Duan Ning. No matter who it was, she wouldn't allow anyone to touch her. Not even in jest.
"Didn't you say before that you would teach me how to fish?"
"I did say that, but are you sure you want to play today?" Chu Ruo asked as she followed. "What is it? Are you troubled? Or under pressure? Tell me."
Nan Muxue didn't answer. Instead, she took Chu Ruo’s hand, their fingers intertwining. Chu Ruo immediately grew tense. "Careful, there might be—oh." She realized they had already reached the riverbank. There wasn't a soul in sight. "When did we get here?"
"You were so busy talking you didn't notice anything. How many times must I tell you to pay attention?"
"Well, I have you with me, so what am I afraid of?" Since no one was around, Chu Ruo gripped her hand tightly without reservation. "Hehe..."
They reached the lakeside. Chu Ruo was about to look for materials to make a rod, but Nan Muxue had already produced a complete set of fishing gear from somewhere. Chu Ruo stared, mouth agape. "You prepared this in advance?"
"Mhm."
"Oh, so you planned to come out and play with me all along?"
As usual, she received no answer to such questions. After setting up the rods and sitting down, Chu Ruo naturally put an arm around Nan Muxue’s shoulder. "The last time we fished together was back at the Hundred Flowers Palace. I think that was the only time."
Memories of the past resurfaced. Nan Muxue turned to look at the person beside her. Someone so irreverent and rule-breaking had actually refrained from disturbing her today. Her words and actions had been so cautious, all because she feared her presence might have a negative impact. She had truly changed her attitude for her, thinking and considering for her sake. Nan Muxue brushed her hand over Chu Ruo’s brow. "Back then, you were just as lawless in the Palace. Now that we’re out, you’ve become well-behaved?"
"I just didn't want to disturb you. Actually, the weather is so nice today that I really wanted to ask you out, but then I thought about how you usually like quiet. Every time I drag you out, you’re just humoring me. Besides, the Martial Arts Alliance Leader will be chosen tomorrow. I didn't want to mess up your form. Speaking of which, since you’re out with me, don't you need to review your mental techniques or sword manuals?"
"I’ve prepared long enough. Besides, there is always someone better. Even if I give my all, my martial arts have not reached a state of invincibility. There are many stronger than me; the title of 'Number One in the World' will never belong to just one person forever." Nan Muxue leaned her head onto Chu Ruo’s shoulder, looking relaxed. "Do you think everyone is like you? Every time I ask you to memorize a technique, you don't even flip the pages until the final night. It’s clear you love cramming at the last minute."
"But... but I still remembered it, didn't I? Xue’er," Chu Ruo’s eyes suddenly flashed with concern, "if... if you don't win the Alliance Leader position, will your mother punish you again when we go back?"
"She..."
"And if she finds out about us..." Chu Ruo didn't even dare to imagine the consequences. "Right, didn't they say she would come out after a year of secluded cultivation? By my count, it’s almost time. She hasn't come out yet?"
"It’s not necessarily that precise. They say a year, but sometimes there are obstacles, and it might be delayed."
Hearing this, Chu Ruo felt a surge of joy. "That’s great! I hope she never comes out."
Nan Muxue laughed at her happy expression. "What? You’re such a fearless creature that you’re not even afraid of me, yet you’ve never even met my mother and you’re scared like this?"
"I'm not afraid of her. I'm just worried about you. I'm afraid she’ll punish you again. It hurts my heart. When I first came to the Palace and saw those scars on your hands, it hurt so much. If I saw that again now, I’d die of heartache."
"At most, it’s just some injuries. It won't take my life." Nan Muxue wouldn't admit it, but knowing there was someone in this world who felt such pain for her made her heart slip further out of her control.
"I don't want to drive a wedge between you, but she’s not good to you. Not at all."
"After all these years, I’m used to it. Ruo’er."
"Yeah?"
"I'm tired."
"Tired? Didn't sleep well? I told you that you woke up too early. Let’s go back—"
However, the other woman had already stood up and, with a light movement, drifted into Chu Ruo’s lap. Chu Ruo didn't even have time to react; she was completely stunned. The Little Scorpion had voluntarily crawled into her arms? And her movements were incredibly clingy, like a docile cat.
"Hold me tight."
"Ah, oh." The three words drifted into her ears, and Chu Ruo instinctively obeyed. Then, fully coming to her senses, she began to smile. Looking at this girl who seemed almost cute, she said softly, "Then sleep for a while." No matter how strong she was, she was just a girl the same age as her—even two months younger—who had been forced to become unyielding. "I’ll stay with you."
"Mhm..."
"Xue’er, let me tell you, after I found out you were 'Yan’er,' I had it all planned out. I thought about where I wanted to take you, all the delicious food we’d eat, all the things we’d do together," Chu Ruo gazed at the river, gently swaying her body as if rocking a child to sleep. She was so careful, using a soothing tone as she continued to whisper her long-held plans. "But then we were separated for so long. Once this Assembly is over, I don't even want to go traveling anymore. Let’s go back to the Hundred Flowers Palace and do everything together. We’ll eat together, rest together. I’ll go to the Ice Cave with you while you practice, and we’ll go rowing on the Silent Lake. The raft I built must still be there..."
The bright sunlight reflected the two overlapping silhouettes by the river.
*Splash!*
A sound from the river woke Nan Muxue from her slumber. Just as she was about to open her eyes, a hand covered them. "What are you..."
"The sun is a bit bright. I was afraid it would be uncomfortable for your eyes."
This scene was enough to remind her of the time she had shaded this person’s eyes while she napped against her. Now, it was as if everything was happening in reverse. She pursed her lips and took that hand. "It’s fine now."
The hand was slowly moved away. Nan Muxue propped herself up. "Is there a fish?"
"Erm, looks like we’re going home empty-handed today. It’s okay, we’ll be together every day from now on. We can fish anytime."
She looked directly at her. "Earlier you said soup splashed into your eye?"
"Oh, that. A little bit got in at the time, it was just uncomfortable for a moment." Chu Ruo instinctively went to rub her eye. "But it’s fine, it’s all better now."
"Let me see." The other woman leaned closer and closer. Chu Ruo obediently leaned in too. "Really, it’s nothing. You—"
The word 'you' left her mouth, but no other words followed. Nan Muxue had leaned in and kissed Chu Ruo’s eye. Even if it only lasted a few seconds, the emotion in that kiss was beyond words.
Her lips withdrew. Chu Ruo met those eyes, then spread her arms and fell backward, lying flat on the ground. "Nan Muxue, you really are a little scorpion."
Nan Muxue leaned over her, pinching her chin with a raised eyebrow. "Oh?"
"You’ve stolen my heart away; it’s all with you now. You’re a heart-snatching enchantress."
Rarely, the other woman didn't get angry. Instead, she laughed. "So, will Ruo’er learn to be well-behaved from now on?"
"Naturally," Chu Ruo whispered, tilting her head slightly to kiss the shell of her ear. "Not a chance."
*Drip, drop. Drip, drop.*
Raindrops began to fall. The two stood up. Chu Ruo pouted. "This weather is such a buzzkill. It was sunny just a moment ago, and now it’s raining. I wanted to fish with you a bit longer."
"Another day." Although they had stood up, they remained in each other's arms. Seeing Chu Ruo’s deflated look, Nan Muxue couldn't help but say, "Such a long face over something so small. You’re like a child."
The rain intensified quickly, pattering down on their heads. Chu Ruo looked at her; those eyes were full of her, filled with such indulgence. So, Chu Ruo stepped forward, called out "Xue’er," and once again kissed the woman who pulled at her heartstrings—but this time, she aimed for her lips.
Nan Muxue’s first reaction was surprise, but it only lasted an instant. Soon, her expression turned to one of pleasure. She closed her clear eyes and obediently cooperated.
...
"A-choo! A-choo!"
Chu Ruo sneezed several times as they stepped into the Wanfu Inn. She pushed Nan Muxue toward her room. "Go inside quickly and change out of those wet clothes. It’s my fault for keeping you in the rain so long. Change into dry clothes and lie down. I’ll go get some hot water for you to take a bath. If you catch a cold, it’ll affect your performance tomorrow..."
"You—"
Nan Muxue only got one word out before the other person vanished, running off at top speed.
"Xue’er, Xue’er, open up! The inn has hot water ready. I brought two large buckets. If it’s not enough, I’ll get more."
The door opened. Chu Ruo poured the hot water into the wooden tub in the room. "There, hurry up and wash. Go to sleep after. I’ll have the waiter bring dinner to your room later. I’ll tell Duan Ning and the others so they won't disturb you. We’ll leave you to rest..."
The other woman stopped her as she was about to leave. "Are you sure you’re not coming tonight?"
"I..." *Of course I want to come!* But the inn was crowded and full of all sorts of people from different sects. She didn't dare let anyone see. *Ugh, my fragrant, cool, comfortable Little Scorpion that I can hold while I sleep is gone.* She felt miserable. Gritting her teeth, she said, "You should rest well. Xue’er, you... you..." She stammered, her eyes widening. "What are you doing?!"
Only one thing could make Chu Ruo look this shocked: Nan Muxue was unfastening her inner robe. She was doing it right there, barely a step away, face-to-face—she was undressing in broad daylight! The shock was no less than when Chu Ruo first traveled to this world. Holding onto the principle of 'see no evil' and not wanting to desecrate her beloved, she covered her eyes with both hands. However, the gaps between her fingers were suspiciously wide. She swallowed hard several times. "Xue... Xue’er, what are you doing..."
Nan Muxue, on the other hand, showed no change in expression. She continued to undo her buttons. "Bathing, of course. What else would I be doing?"
*Sigh, why do I feel a tiny bit disappointed?* Feeling dejected, Chu Ruo lowered her hands. "But you don't have to undress right in front of me..."
Before she could finish, Nan Muxue looked up. Her smile was... hard to describe. It was a half-smile, and she leaned in closer and closer, forcing Chu Ruo to retreat until she hit the bed. "Um..."
"Could it be that Ruo’er thought your Master was going to do something else? Offer herself to you?"
*Well... I did think that, but I won't admit it! Hmph.* She turned her head to look at the ceiling. "I didn't say that. I just meant you’re undressing right in front of me... aren't you afraid I’ll look?"
Her chin was pinched again—or rather, her face was turned back so their eyes met. "During those days when you were pretending to be blind, did you see any less? Now that I’m letting you look openly, you’re acting like a gentleman?"
"I..."
"Fine, stop stuttering." Nan Muxue let go. When Chu Ruo looked again, she was already in the tub, her clothes hanging neatly to the side. *Tsk, that speed. She must have pressed the 32x fast-forward button.* "Go on out. Don't interfere with my bath."
*Phew, my heart is racing. I can't control myself.* Chu Ruo had indeed been having some stray thoughts just now. Now, she felt a sense of relief. She couldn't help but steal a glance; even just the sight of her back was enough to make her feel like she might faint from excitement. She quickly looked up, fearing a nosebleed. "Then... I’m going. Rest well tonight. Go to sleep early." She fled the room and shut the door. If this continued, she wouldn't be able to hold back. This Little Scorpion was teasing her on purpose. Didn't she know she was easily tempted? Honestly.
***
Dinner without the Little Scorpion was tasteless, like chewing wax. She had no appetite and was bored to tears.
Playing cards without the Little Scorpion was dull. Winning felt pointless, and losing didn't matter. Even though Nan Muxue didn't play, Chu Ruo couldn't stop thinking about her.
Bickering without the Little Scorpion was uninspiring. Little Guo wasn't fun, Duan Ning wasn't fun, and seeing Nan Gongyan only made her more depressed. Every time she saw that face, she thought of her own Little Scorpion ten times over. She remained unmoved even when they teased her for ages. *Sigh, missing someone is so painful. Why was I so stupid to dig this hole for myself? I want to sleep with her. So miserable...*
The bed without the Little Scorpion felt small and uncomfortable. It was hard as a rock. The soft moonlight outside was now an eyesore. *She’s usually so cool to the touch, so why is she so comfortable to sleep with? It’s a mystery.*
She tossed and turned, turned and tossed. She couldn't sleep. *Why is there such an annoying thing as a Martial Arts Assembly? It’s stopping me from sleeping with my Xue’er. I curse this Assembly to be the last one ever.*
Chu Ruo was restless, unable to find comfort in any position. Finally, unable to toss anymore, she grabbed her pillow and threw it blindly. She didn't expect it to hit anything, but a sound followed.
"You have no sleeping posture at all. What did this pillow ever do to you?"
That voice! Chu Ruo sat up instantly. "Xue’er! Why are you here?"
She never imagined that after her agonizing decision to sleep alone, Nan Muxue would come to her room. Her joy was equivalent to winning the lottery a hundred times over—and it had to be the jackpot.
Nan Muxue put the pillow back. "What? You look very surprised. If you don't want to see me, then I’ll just—"
"Wait!" Chu Ruo grabbed her. "You’re already here, don't tease me."
"Didn't you want to go back to your own room?"
"I was just afraid..."
"Afraid of wolves in front and tigers behind," Nan Muxue interrupted dismissively, then commanded, "Move over."
'Move over' meant 'get into bed.' Would Chu Ruo refuse? Could she? She moved with the speed of lightning, still holding the other woman’s hand. "Hehe, I’m all set."
As soon as Nan Muxue lay down, Chu Ruo pressed against her, hugging her tightly. "Mmm, holding you is the only way to sleep comfortably."
"I was just passing by to see if you were asleep. I’ll be leaving shortly."
"Could you bear to leave me?"
"Ruo’er is getting more shameless by the day."
"Say whatever you want. I have my 'warm jade' in my arms, so I don't care."
"Thick-skinned," Nan Muxue chuckled softly. She never would have thought that even for a single night, she wouldn't be able to overcome her own feelings. She knew Chu Ruo was right—the Wanfu Inn was crowded and full of mixed company. She knew the martial arts world had long been speculating about their relationship. She knew this could be discovered. Yet, she couldn't suppress herself. She was afraid. Afraid of a day like the one at Cloud Mist Mountain. Afraid that one day she would wake up, or that in a moment when Chu Ruo left her sight, she would never find her again. Nan Muxue found she couldn't endure it a second time.
Holding the person she loved, Chu Ruo’s mood became very buoyant. She remembered something. "Xue’er, I suddenly thought... how did Liu Songhe know I lost my martial arts? My fall from the cliff wasn't a secret, but very few people knew about my loss of power."
"Is there even a need to ask? It was either the Heavenly Demon Palace, or your 'Zhi’er' and her sister who told him. Why is it that as soon as it involves your gentle, soft-spoken Lady Zhi’er, you lose your brain?"
"I didn't—"
"Hmph," Nan Muxue snorted disdainfully. "Tomorrow, those sisters and the Heavenly Demon Palace will surely make a move. Why don't you go find your Zhi’er then?"
*A jealous woman is truly not to be trifled with, especially a Little Scorpion who is already petty to the extreme.* "Ow! Why did you pinch me again?"
"What were you calling me in your head just now?"
"Nothing! I wouldn't dare..." *Ugh, the Little Scorpion is lethal...*
"Still won't admit it?"
"I was wrong, Xue’er! I won't do it again!"
Finally, she let go and leaned in. Chu Ruo only got two words in response: "Go to sleep."
"Oh." Chu Ruo obediently settled down, pulling the other woman into her arms. At the same time, Nan Muxue immediately tucked her hand against Chu Ruo’s heart. "Sleep."
"Ruo’er."
"Yeah?"
"Tomorrow... are you afraid? If you are, you don't have to go. I’ll have Ning’er and Yan’er stay with you..."
"No, I want to go. Xue’er, didn't we agree? We’ll go everywhere together and never be apart. I want to be with you. I want to help you. I’m just... a little nervous. I’m afraid I’ll be a burden to you."
Nan Muxue pressed a finger to her lips. "My Ruo’er will not disappoint me."
***
The day of the Martial Arts Assembly, early morning...
Nan Muxue’s eyes fluttered open. Before the morning light could fully reach her, darkness returned, accompanied by warmth. Someone was already draped over her, holding the corners of the blanket over both their heads, completely shrouding them from head to toe. The person had a mischievous, grinning face as she whispered "Good morning." Nan Muxue’s mood brightened instantly. She reached up to hook her arms around the other woman. "What are you up to now?"
The tone was incredibly indulgent. Chu Ruo loved it. she leaned down so they were pressed tightly together. "How is this 'being up to something'?" She couldn't control herself and began to peck at those lips. It started as teasing, but with the beautiful woman’s cooperation, it quickly escalated into a deep, passionate kiss.
The kiss fell like a promised appointment. Nan Muxue smiled and let herself be kissed.
Chu Ruo had them completely covered by the blanket. By the time the kiss ended, both were struggling for breath. The woman beneath her panted heavily. "You... you never behave properly."
This time, her tone was unmistakably coquettish. "I don't need dignity when I’m with you, let alone anything else. Besides, which day do I wake up and *not* kiss you?"
"Rogue."
In the darkness, expressions were invisible. Chu Ruo continued to kiss those lips fervently. "I saw you woke up too early. Even if it’s the Assembly today, it’s still very early. Sleep a bit longer?"
"Lazy."
She was always so proud and stubborn, saying one thing but doing another. Yet, she always gave in to her. Chu Ruo felt incredibly lucky to have traveled to this world and found someone who treated her with such sincerity. "Xue’er, I won't disappoint you."
"You... suddenly so serious." Nan Muxue was surprised, but she still looked at her with indulgence, stroking her cheek. "Fine. I believe you."
"Then let’s get up. Let’s go early."
"No more sleep?"
"Mhm."
The two rose, washed, changed, and stepped out of the room.
The Hundred Flowers Palace disciples were standing ready, with the four Protectors flanking the sides. Chu Ruo noticed everyone’s attire was very formal. The disciples wore veils, and their outfits were marked by rank. The flowers on their white robes represented their status. The four Protectors wore Mandrake, Poppy, Luoru Flower, and Trumpet Creeper.
As for Nan Muxue, she was still in white, but a closer look revealed that the robe was embroidered with countless flowers using the finest silk thread. 'Hundred Flowers' indeed—every single flower was different. At first glance, it seemed plain, but the detail was staggering. Furthermore, the robe featured several blood-red streaks shaped like flames that connected the entire garment. The cuffs and hem had a gradient of orange-red. Combined with Nan Muxue’s aura, she looked peerless.
"What are you staring at, you dunderhead?"
Chu Ruo had been completely mesmerized. She snapped out of it. "Looking at you. Who told you to be so beautiful?" Chu Ruo looked at her own clothes; they were practically a couple’s outfit. She whispered, "Is it okay for us to wear something so obviously matching?"
"If you don't like it, you can take it off."
"...Can you not be so sharp-tongued with me?"
Little Guo carefully handed over their gold and silver masks, which had been cleaned until they looked brand new. Nan Muxue put on her own, then, in front of everyone, personally placed the mask on her beloved disciple.
"Are you ready?"
| Chinese | English | Notes/Explanation |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| 笑穴 | Laughing Acupoint | A pressure point that, when struck, causes uncontrollable laughter. |
| 膏药 | Poultice / Plaster | Used metaphorically here to mean someone who sticks very closely to another. |
| 曼陀罗 | Mandrake / Datura | Flower motif for one of the Protectors. |
| 虞美人 | Corn Poppy | Flower motif for one of the Protectors. |
| 洛如花 | Luoru Flower | Flower motif for one of the Protectors. |
| 凌霄花 | Trumpet Creeper | Flower motif for one of the Protectors. |
| 万福楼 | Wanfu Inn | The name of the inn where they are staying in Mo Yang. |
| 墨央 | Mo Yang | The location of the Martial Arts Assembly. |
Enjoying the story? Rate this novel:
Master, Spare My Life: A Disciple's Sweet Rebellion | Chapter 63 | The Calm Before the Assembly | Novela.app | Novela.app
