“Hello! *Ahem*, long time no see.”
“You...” Caifeng was startled at first, but upon seeing the person behind, she immediately cupped her hands in a respectful salute. “Master.”
“Hey, hey, hey! I greeted you first. You could at least give me a word back. That’s just mean,” Chu Ruo grumbled.
Nan Muxue gave a slight nod. “Are there any vacant rooms?”
“Yes, I will have someone arrange it immediately.”
Chu Ruo stood with her hands on her hips, looking indignant. “None of you are paying any attention to me. Xiao Guo’er was the same this morning. No fun, none of you are any fun at all.”
“Acting like a child again,” Nan Muxue remarked.
“It’s all your fault! You drove me to such desperation that I had to try my luck with Xiao Guo’er...” Her tone shifted abruptly. “Wait, why are you poking my pressure point?”
“I think I poked it too lightly. You actually dared to set your sights on Xiao Guo’er, and you even have the nerve to say it out loud? Do you even respect me anymore?”
Chu Ruo felt like she was being poked two and a half inches deep. “What are you talking about? I meant taking her as a disciple! Nothing else!”
Nan Muxue let go, turning her face away awkwardly. “Who’s to blame for not speaking clearly?”
*Vixen, jealous woman, vinegar jar, little scorpion...* “Ow, ow! My ear! Stop pinching, it hurts~”
“Master,” Caifeng’s voice approached, allowing Chu Ruo to ‘escape’ the danger. “The upper room is ready. I shall lead you there now.”
“I need to head out for a moment. Lead the Holy Envoy to the room.”
“Yes.”
“Where are you going... ah,” Chu Ruo sighed. Nan Muxue left without even lifting an eyelid. Feeling dejected and melancholy, Chu Ruo had no choice but to follow Caifeng. Soon, her attention shifted to her guide. “Hey, we haven’t seen each other in so long. How have you been?”
Caifeng remained silent. But who was Chu Ruo? She was someone who could chatter incessantly for half a day even if no one responded. “Look at you, why is everyone so silent? It’s rude, you know? Just give me a response. How are you doing? Is business good here? How is the intelligence network coming along? Oh, right, right—how is your mother’s health?”
The veins on Caifeng’s temples throbbed slightly. She pushed open a door. “We are here.”
“You haven’t answered my questions yet. You...”
Finally reaching her limit, Caifeng snapped, “Are you always this talkative?”
Chu Ruo sat down unceremoniously. “It’s one of my virtues.”
“The kitchen is in the back, the latrine is to the southeast, and there is hot tea in the pot on the table. If there’s nothing else, I’m leaving.”
“Wait, wait! There is something! Sit down, let’s chat.”
Caifeng felt a wave of frustration. She had already stepped one foot out the door; why hadn't she been faster? For a moment, she wanted to bury her face in her hands, but she ultimately sat down reluctantly. “What is it?”
“Just the same questions as before. How are you? And your mother? Is she well?”
“Mm. It is kind of you to ask. Master specially permitted me to bring my mother to the inn to care for her. Both she and I are doing well.”
It had to be said that Caifeng was indeed a disciple Nan Muxue had once favored; her tone and temperament were quite similar—both possessed a certain coldness. Her executive abilities were excellent too; she managed Xueruo Pavilion with great success. “Then I’ll find time to visit the old lady. It must be hard work for you here.”
“It is fine.”
*Exactly the same. Does saying two more words kill you?* Chu Ruo thought. *But it’s not awkward with my little scorpion; it’s different with you.* For a moment, Chu Ruo regretted dragging her into a conversation, not knowing how to continue.
“You,” Caifeng broke the silence first, asking, “How are you?”
“I’m alright.”
“I meant... I heard the Palace Master has emerged from seclusion. Are you two... alright?”
Chu Ruo poured a cup of tea for both of them, offering a forced smile. “We’re fine. What could possibly happen between me and Master?”
“Chu Ruo,” Caifeng suddenly called her by name. “You and Master... you must be careful.”
“You too. Xueruo Pavilion doesn't belong to Baihua Palace. You’re working for Master, so watch your own back. Don’t let your mother worry.”
“Mm.” It was strange. They had started as enemies, then they weren't exactly friends, yet now they were concerned for each other’s safety. Caifeng felt she had many questions for this person—she wanted to talk to her, to understand the story between her and her Master. But she didn't know where to start. She no longer hated her; in fact, she had felt a faint sense of worry when she heard Chu Ruo had fallen off the cliff. Life was unpredictable; who would have thought they would be in this situation when they met again?
Finally, she gathered her courage. “Chu Ruo, you and Master... you two are...”
“You want to ask what the relationship between me and Master really is?” Chu Ruo took a sip of tea and nodded. “It’s exactly what you imagine.”
“Can you tell me what happened after you fell off the cliff?”
“Of course! But it’s a bit of a long story. I’ll try to keep it brief...”
Caifeng immediately regretted asking.
***
An hour later.
Nan Muxue returned to the inn. Caifeng usually stayed in the back and didn't show herself easily, just as they had gone straight to the back when they first arrived. However, she was now standing respectfully at the door, waiting for her Master. As soon as Nan Muxue entered, she stepped forward. “Master.”
“Mm.” Nan Muxue, as sharp as ever, followed her toward the rooms. “Where is Ruo’er?”
“In her room. She hasn't left the inn.”
“Is your mother’s health well?”
“Thank you for your concern, Master. Mother is doing very well.”
“Since she is by your side, spend more time with her.”
“Yes.”
“You have worked hard during this period. Xueruo Pavilion is doing well.”
Caifeng replied humbly, “It is all thanks to Master’s leadership. I dare not take the credit.”
Nan Muxue kept her hands behind her back. Caifeng already knew what she was holding and was secretly astonished. Chu Ruo’s status was indeed extraordinary. Just as she was lost in thought, the woman behind her spoke again. “What is Ruo’er doing now?”
“The Holy Envoy is... reviewing the ledgers for the Xueruo Pavilion in Tianyou.”
Caifeng was surprised yet again. She had experienced enough surprises for one day. She saw her Master’s lips curl into a smile, the doting affection in her eyes overflowing as she murmured to herself, “She certainly cares about her own business.” Then, her smile vanished in a second. “Regarding Ruo’er’s branch of Xueruo Pavilion, do not interfere with anything else. Let her do as she pleases. Monitor the profits and losses in secret. If there is a loss, cover it for her. Make the accounts look good, and do not let her find out. It must be seamless, without a single flaw. Remember this.”
“This disciple will keep it in mind.” *All this trouble just to keep Chu Ruo from finding out, so she thinks she’s a great manager?* Caifeng felt she truly couldn't fathom her Master. How could such a peerless woman fall for Chu Ruo? It wasn't that Chu Ruo was bad—she had her virtues, and few in the world would jump off a cliff to save someone—but her Master was so unique. No matter how she looked at it, they didn't seem like a match. Not to mention, Chu Ruo was a woman. Well, it wasn't her place to question. “Master, actually, the Holy Envoy is managing it quite well. You asked me to keep an eye on the Tianyou branch before; it’s not only organized, but the daily revenue has increased significantly compared to before. I have the ledgers ready for your inspection at any time.”
“Ruo’er is naturally capable.” They had reached the door. Nan Muxue asked, “Where is Ruo’er’s room?”
“Right next door. The two rooms are adjacent.”
Nan Muxue waved her hand. “Go attend to your duties.”
“This disciple takes her leave.”
*Creak—*
“You’re back!” There was no sign of anyone at the table. Along with the sound of a ledger being tossed aside, a gust of wind brought Chu Ruo right in front of Nan Muxue. “If you’d come any later, the food would be cold. Come eat. Sweet and sour pork tenderloin—it’s your favorite flavor. And the blanched heart of cabbage you always eat. Didn't I say I’d make you winter melon meatball soup? And look, I didn't forget the peanuts you have every day. Oh, right, right—there’s pumpkin juice too. It’s in the ice cellar; we can drink it in a bit.”
“You cooked again?”
“Mm, the inn’s kitchen is well-stocked. Come, try my skills today.”
“Doing favors for no reason...”
“You’ve had enough...”
“However,” Nan Muxue raised the paper-wrapped bundle in her hand, “it wasn't in vain that I bought this for you.”
Chu Ruo sniffed hard. This smell... her favorite stinky tofu! she grabbed it immediately. It was indeed the real deal—so tempting, so mouth-watering. she lunged forward in a bear hug. “Xue’er~”
“Silly.”
“Don’t you hate this the most?” *She actually carried it all the way back. What kind of celestial being is my little scorpion? I’m so moved, boohoo.*
“In any case, you aren't allowed to kiss me after eating it.”
*You’re so cruel, cruel, cruel...* Chu Ruo was immediately poked in the back. Nan Muxue’s expression was the picture of kindness and grace, her face "beaming with smiles" as she said with extreme tenderness, “Ruo’er, what are you thinking about?”
“I, I, I...” Chu Ruo leaned in and kissed her. “I was thinking, I should give you a good kiss before I eat.”
“Shameless~”
Chu Ruo kissed her beloved woman deeply. Finally, she pulled Nan Muxue’s arms around her own waist. “Where did you go by yourself? You didn't even take me.”
“You complain every day about following me...”
“When did I ever comp—*ahem*, go on,” Chu Ruo muttered. *What do I do when my wife glares at me? Shut up, obviously.*
“Isn't it good to give you some freedom? Lest you say I’m hindering you from meeting other people.”
“Then you should have come back later. I could have gone to a brothel... Ow! Why did you step on me?”
“You can go right now. Go on.”
Chu Ruo held her tighter. “Just kidding, just kidding! I haven't even settled the score with you yet. That Drunken Dream Pavilion is clearly a property of Baihua Palace, but you didn't tell me when I went there last time. That wasn't fair.”
Nan Muxue froze. “Who told you that?”
“Duan Ning. She...” *Crap, I let it slip.* “Hehe, let’s sit down and eat.”
Nan Muxue sat down, but she had no intention of dropping the subject. “What else did she tell you?”
“Nothing, nothing at all. But really, how many secrets are you keeping from me? How many things do I not know? Come on, confess everything!”
“No sense of propriety. If others saw you, they’d wonder how you ever became the Holy Envoy.”
“I don't have much of an image left in their eyes anyway. Just this morning, before we came down the mountain, I asked Xiao Guo’er if she’d be my disciple. That kid is so not cute. Not only did she refuse, she went around like a loudspeaker telling all the other disciples. Now they run when they see me. I couldn't get a single disciple. I mean, am I really that scary?”
“Scary? No,” Nan Muxue said. Chu Ruo was about to praise her, but the next sentence was: “Just pathetic.”
Chu Ruo pouted and glared. “You!” Then she had a second thought and let it go. “When are we going back?”
“Do you have business back there?”
“Yeah, I just told you. The disciple thing...”
Nan Muxue took a bite of the sweet and sour pork, her expression neutral. “In three days.”
“Huh?! You... you did that on purpose!”
“And what if I did?”
“You clearly agreed that if someone accepted me as their master within three days, it would be fine. Now you’re staying here for three days before going back. You’re obviously blocking me from taking a disciple!”
Nan Muxue smiled, a hint of craftiness in her eyes. “The trip down the mountain was decided beforehand. I said I’d give you three days, and you agreed without hesitation. Blame your own lack of thought. Do you want to pin it on me?”
“Well, you were still intentional. Tell me, are you just a sore loser?” *What else can I do now? Just talk tough.*
Nan Muxue arched an eyebrow. “Do you think anyone would agree even if you went back now?”
“Why wouldn't they? Xiao Guo’er couldn't have told everyone. Besides, I’ll find those new young disciples. They haven't been in the palace long and aren't familiar with things. If I coax them a bit, they’ll definitely agree.”
“They won’t.”
“What do you mean they won’t?”
“No one will agree to be your disciple.”
“How can you be so sure? I was personally taught by you; do you have that little faith in me?”
Nan Muxue took a sip of the soup, finding the flavor just right. She said slowly, “I have ordered them. No one is allowed to be your disciple.”
*Pfft!* The mouthful of rice in Chu Ruo’s mouth almost sprayed out like a rainbow. *I’m coughing up blood here!* “You... what are you trying to do? You forbid everyone from bowing to me, and while you won’t let me use threats or bribes, you do it yourself! Where’s the fun in that?”
“So? I’m allowed, you aren't. Besides,” Nan Muxue tilted her head and smiled softly, “if someone is still willing under these circumstances, then they truly wish to follow you. I wouldn't stop them then.”
“Forget it. In your Baihua Palace, who dares to disobey your orders?”
“Mm,” Nan Muxue actually nodded in agreement, which was infuriating. “Except for you, they are all quite obedient.”
“Well, except for me, you don't fancy anyone else either. You couldn't possibly like people who don't listen to you, could you? I didn't realize you were a... mmm...” Her mouth was pinched shut again. *Toxic. Truly toxic.*
“Isn't Ruo’er unafraid of me? Let me see just how big your guts have grown.”
“Mmm,” Chu Ruo finally managed to pull the hand away. She took a few breaths and leaned in. “Xue’er, I just want to be a master~”
Nan Muxue refused sternly. “No.”
“But why?”
“I don't like it.”
Since she had blurted it out, Chu Ruo pressed for an answer. “Why don't you like me taking a disciple?”
Nan Muxue hadn't expected to say it, but since she had, she wouldn't deny it. “No reason. In short, you are not allowed to take a disciple.” She didn't like her establishing any relationship with anyone other than herself—friends, mentors, disciples—none of it was allowed. She couldn't have Chu Ruo focusing her care and energy on others. She never denied her own selfishness. Her Ruo’er was hers alone, belonging only to her. She could not have a connection with anyone else, no matter what it was.
Seeing there was no hope, Chu Ruo nodded honestly. “Oh. Then I’ll wait until you agree.”
“So obedient?”
“Well, it’s you. If my Xue’er says it, of course I’ll listen.”
“Ruo’er.”
Chu Ruo looked up. “Hmm?”
The woman had already stood up and curled into her arms. “Listen well. I am a selfish little scorpion. I... do not allow you to associate with others.”
“Oh,” Chu Ruo whispered into her ear. “All this talk... are you jealous? Afraid that if I take a disciple, I won’t have time for you?”
“Eat your food. I’ll take you to the streets this afternoon. Didn't I say I’d pick out some clothes for you? Qingxi Street is quite lively; you can take a look.”
“Mm, then let’s eat fast. You’re already done? I’ll hurry up, and we’ll go.”
After a hasty meal, the two went to the streets. Nan Muxue took her to the best silk merchant and picked out several colors and styles, all of the most expensive variety. Chu Ruo secretly asked the shopkeeper the price; a single outfit could buy several shops on this street. The shopkeeper, having landed a major client, was all smiles. He told them the clothes would be rushed and ready in about three days. Since it was Baihua Palace, and Guangjiang City was at the foot of Cloud-Entering Peak, most people recognized them. He would send someone to deliver the clothes to the foot of the mountain. Chu Ruo thought that if they hadn't left by then, it might be faster to just come and pick them up herself.
After the silk merchant, they went to a jade shop. Chu Ruo picked up a jade pendant to look at, saying casually, “Actually, those clothes didn't need to be custom-made. He had ready-made ones that weren't as expensive.”
Nan Muxue looked at the precious jades on the table and replied, “Custom-made ones are measured to your figure; they fit better. The style and patterns are also what you like. They are much better than ready-made ones.”
“I just think it’s too expensive.” *The little scorpion pampers me too much. Everything—food, clothes, daily items—is the best. I bet even the children of princes and dukes don't get this treatment.* The feeling of having a wealthy wife was simply too wonderful.
“It doesn't matter, as long as you like it.” Nan Muxue finally picked up two jade pendants that fit together as one but could be worn separately. “Come, try this.”
The jade was translucent throughout. Although Chu Ruo didn't understand jade, she knew it was high quality. Most importantly, they could each wear one—a couple’s set! She wanted to buy it immediately. The shopkeeper gave a high price of over a thousand taels, but since they liked it, it was worth it.
***
Chu Ruo collapsed on the bed. “Sigh, I’m exhausted. And we spent so much money. My heart hurts, my wallet hurts.”
Nan Muxue handed her some tea. “You’ve become quite frugal lately. You weren't this thrifty before.”
“Well, you spent so much silver on me, of course I’m pained. Those clothes and this jade pendant cost a fortune. But look, this jade is so beautiful. And there are two pieces; we can each have half.”
“Didn't you want to wear the same things as me before? Does this jade satisfy your heart?”
“Mm.” After finishing the tea, Chu Ruo sat up and embraced her. Since Nan Muxue was standing, Chu Ruo’s head only reached her chest. “Mm, I love it.”
“Tomorrow, I’ll take you somewhere else.”
Chu Ruo closed her eyes, feeling content. “Where?”
“A large manor, a valley, and a hilltop.”
Chu Ruo opened her eyes. “What are you planning?”
“Didn't you say you wanted to elope?”
“Now? Are you serious?”
Nan Muxue continued to hold her. “In the future, that will be our home. We can go into seclusion there. The location is good, near several cities. If you want to come out and see the excitement, it will be convenient.”
“Xue’er, you’re too good to me...”
“Are you tired?”
“Mm, a little. Anyway, we’ve already eaten out. Let’s rest.”
After they lay down, Chu Ruo remained well-behaved. It had been a long day. She was fine, but Nan Muxue had gone out in the morning after visiting Xueruo Pavilion and then spent the afternoon shopping with her; she must be exhausted. Chu Ruo made no other moves, simply pulling the woman into her arms. “Sleep.”
“You forgot something.”
“What?”
Nan Muxue had somehow placed a pill in her mouth. She leaned in and said, “Today’s antidote for the Baihua Curse.”
Chu Ruo understood and captured her lips. “Okay.”
***
The next morning.
Chu Ruo woke up in a daze, only to find...
“You little scorpion—no, you female demon! You’re stripping me while I’m asleep?”
“Come here.” Nan Muxue’s tone left no room for doubt. She pulled Chu Ruo on top of her and commanded, “Take off your top.”
“Oh.” Her mouth was reluctant, but her body was very honest~
Then, a cool ointment with a herbal fragrance was spread across her back. “It’s been applied for so long; why won’t they fade?”
Nan Muxue was referring to the scars on Chu Ruo’s back from her fall off the cliff. They were crisscrossed and jagged, a testament to everything she had done for her. Chu Ruo laughed lightly. “It’s a blessing just to have kept my life. Scars are just scars; they won’t stop you from loving me.”
Nan Muxue didn't laugh at the joke. Instead, she gently stroked the scars. Of course, among them were several much fresher scratches—marks Nan Muxue often left during their intimate moments. These were the brands she had carved into her. Over time, through repetition, they had become vivid and indelible, just like the bond between them.
“Does it hurt?”
Chu Ruo shook her head. “The only thing that makes me hurt is your injuries. Are the blisters on your hands better?”
“Almost.” Nan Muxue propped herself up and kissed Chu Ruo’s forehead. “Sleep a bit longer.”
A long time passed before Chu Ruo was awakened by a knock on the door. “Chu Ruo, are you there?”
This time, she was facing the door, while Nan Muxue remained silent behind her. She instinctively answered, “Is something wrong?”
Caifeng said from outside, “A disciple came to deliver breakfast this morning and found no one in Master’s room. Did she go out?”
“Huh? *Hiss—*”
The person outside heard her sudden change in tone and asked hurriedly, “What’s wrong?”
“Oh, no, nothing’s wrong.” *This little scorpion. She won’t speak, but she’s scratching my back. It’s itchy, tingly... but also a bit electric. So comfortable...* “Uh, Master probably went out. Don't worry about it. We have things to do today and might not be back for a while.”
“In that case, I’ll go attend to my work.”
As the footsteps faded, Chu Ruo turned around and grabbed the soft hand. “Tell me, why were you secretly messing with my back? What are you trying to do?”
“Was I?”
Chu Ruo flipped over, pinning her down. “Don't you know I have no self-control? Xue’er~”
Nan Muxue had already wrapped her arms around her. “Mm. And so?”
“Hehe, you know exactly why...”
***
| Chinese | English | Notes/Explanation |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| 广江城 | Guangjiang City | The city located at the foot of Cloud-Entering Peak. |
| 庆喜街 | Qingxi Street | A lively commercial street in Guangjiang City. |
| 天幽 | Tianyou | A location where a branch of Xueruo Pavilion is located. |
| 圣使 | Holy Envoy | Chu Ruo's official title within Baihua Palace. |
| 绸缎庄 | Silk Merchant / Silk Shop | A shop selling high-end fabrics and clothing. |
| 玉器店 | Jade Shop | A shop specializing in jade jewelry and ornaments. |
| 入云峰 | Cloud-Entering Peak | The mountain where Baihua Palace is situated. |
