Xiaofen jolted awake, her eyes snapped open, her breaths coming in panicked gasps, her heart hammering against her ribs. Her body was slick with sweat, her robes clinging to her. The terror of her nightmare lingered, heavy and oppressive, like a storm cloud hanging low in the sky. The dream had been a horrifying tableau of violence and destruction. Their peaceful village had a been transformed into a hellish inferno. Crimson banners with strange, menacing symbols fluttered ominously in the wind.
A monstrous army, their faces contorted into grotesque masks, had descended upon them like a plague. Their eyes, glowing with an unnatural, malevolent light, seemed to pierce even through her dream. Her father, his once-familiar face now contorted with fear, was forced to his knees by a towering figure with a rusted blade that dripped with a viscous, crimson fluid. Her mother, her screams a strangled cry, was dragged away by a group of soldiers, their laughter as chilling as the icy wind that swept across the burning village. Xiaotian, her tiny body trembling with terror, was tossed into the flames, her screams swallowed by the monstrous roar of the inferno.
The air was thick with the stench of burning flesh, the smell of death searing itself into her memory.
Gradually calming her nerves, Xiaofen looked around and realized she was alone in the room. She slowly climbed down from the bed and walked toward the hallway of the inner chambers. As she approached, she noticed that one particular chamber emitted a chilling, icy air. Curiosity piqued, she slid the door open. Inside, she found Bingwen, his upper body bare and glistening. His well-toned physique was a sight to behold, with sweat trickling down his skin despite the cold atmosphere.
Just as she was about to slide the door shut, her cold attribute activated, sending a sharp pain coursing through her body. She doubled over and collapsed on the floor, shaking violently as her complexion turned pale. Gritting her teeth, she managed to sit up in a cultivation pose. Remembering his teachings, she began to focus inward. Frost-like energy flowed through her pathways, her spiritual energy intertwining with the icy power she sought to harness. Yet, as always, her body struggled to contain it, causing her spiritual energy to leak away.
Desperate, she crawled toward Bingwen, each movement draining her strength further as the icy power raged within her, threatening to consume her internal organs. Upon reaching him, she struggled to maintain her cultivation pose, resting his hands on her shoulders. Drawing upon her remaining resolve, she focused her energy once more. With Bingwen's energy flowing through him, she used it as a conduit to aid her cultivation, channeling their combined power to stabilize the turmoil inside her.
Bingwen felt a sudden influx in his own cultivation—a sensation that felt familiar. Slowly opening his eyes, he found Xiaofen in front of him, her body trembling as she cultivated, his hands resting on her shoulders.
As he supported her, he contemplated the various physical constitution manuals he should impart to her. Just then, she leaned against him, succumbing to exhaustion. Her hair clung to his damp chest, and her palm lay weakly against his sculpted abs. A familiar heat surged through Bingwen, his breath catching in his throat. Unbidden, inappropriate thoughts flickered across his mind, making him acutely aware of Xiaofen's presence. Shivering, she pressed closer, seeking warmth from his body. Bingwen sighed, the sound of a whisper against her hair as he drew her closer. The gentle curve of her back pressed against his chest. He inhaled her delicate scent, his hand, guided by instinct, began to trace soothing circles on her back,
Princess Han Cufen, her brow furrowed in concentration, meticulously scanned the list of potential suitors for her daughter, Crown Princess Han Ting. Her personal maid, Xinyi, stood silently behind her,
"Xinyi," Han Cufen finally spoke, her voice a gentle yet commanding melody, "What are your thoughts on these choices?"
Xinyi glanced at the list, her expression carefully neutral.
"Your Highness," she replied, her tone deferential, "Your decision is undoubtedly the wisest and most fitting for the Crown Princess." Han Cufen's gaze remained fixed on the parchment, a hint of impatience flickering in her eyes. "You may speak freely, Xinyi," she insisted,
"It would be prudent, Your Highness," Xinyi suggested, her voice steady and measured, "to wait for the celebration in honor of the Conqueror. Many royals and dignitaries from across the province will be present, paying their respects to the Emperor and offering tributes. It would be an excellent opportunity for Her Highness, Princess Han Ting, to observe her potential suitors firsthand."
Han Cufen pondered Xinyi's suggestion, a thoughtful crease appearing on her forehead. "Oh," she murmured. Before she could respond further, a soft rap on the door announced a visitor.
Xinyi welcomed the visitor into the room. The imperial eunuch, Zhōu Níng, clasped his fists and bowed respectfully. "Greetings, Your Highness."
"Please, have a seat," the princess replied,as Xinyi poured a cup of tea for the eunuch.
As Zhōu Níng's gaze wandered to a plate of cakes, he reached for a few, but Xinyi swiftly intercepted his hand. The eunuch chuckled softly and took a sip of his tea, feigning innocence.
"How goes the salt monopoly along the southeast coast?" The princess inquired, her tone both inquisitive and commanding.
"Exceedingly well, Your Highness. Another successful negotiation, as always," Zhōu Níng flattered, his eyes glinting with a mix of ambition and servility. Han Cufen regarded him knowingly,
"This must remain between us. Betray me, and it will cost you dearly."
Zhōu Níng nodded, his demeanor shifting slightly,
"Of course, Your Highness. I will ensure that our efforts in the south remain steadfast."
With a satisfied nod, Han Cufen leaned back,
Xiaofen awoke to the soothing scent of medicinal incense. She realized she was nestled in Bingwen's arms, his hand gently rubbing her back, transferring spiritual energy to ease her discomfort.
"Comfortable enough?" he asked. Startled, she jolted away, her cheeks burning as she took in his bare torso. The heat of embarrassment deepened as she struggled to regain her composure.