gnovel Chapter 24 Snow Woman
Chapter 24 Snow Woman
After leaving the State of Zhao, the group headed towards the State of Han.
Xia Bing walked in front, Jing Ni followed behind carrying Xia Yan, and Xia Yufang brought up the rear.
……
Three days later.
The group entered South Korea.
South Korea was more prosperous than the State of Zhao.
"Let's find a place to stay first," Xia Bing said.
"Um."
In the evening, Xia Bing found a courtyard in the city. It wasn't big, but it was enough for her to stay in.
"Stay here for now." Xia Bing put down her bag. "We'll deal with the rest later."
Xia Yufang carried Xia Yan into the house to rest, while Jing Ni stood in the courtyard, looking at Xia Bing.
How long do you plan to stay in South Korea?
"It depends." Xia Bing sat on the stone bench. "The Net won't be able to track us here for the time being."
Aren't you worried?
"Worrying won't help." Xia Bing leaned back in her chair. "Let's focus on improving our strength first, and we can worry about other things later."
Jing Ni remained silent.
"I'm just a nuisance," she said. "Why not hand me over to them?"
Xia Bing glanced at her.
"Do you want to be handed over?"
"In no mood."
"Then don't ask."
Jingni remained silent.
……
night.
Xia Yan was asleep, and the courtyard was quiet.
Xia Bing walked over and sat down next to Xia Yufang.
"Mother, this is for you."
He took out the Marrow Cleansing Bead.
Xia Yufang looked at the beads in her hand.
"What is this?"
"It will help with your cultivation; you can hold it while you cultivate every day."
Xia Yufang didn't ask where the bead came from; she simply held it tightly in her hand.
"You silly child, I don't know where you got all these strange and unusual things."
"As long as it works. Get some rest."
Xia Bing got up and walked into the house.
……
The next morning.
Xia Bing got up early and went out.
There are also treasure chests in South Korea, which he needs to collect.
"Where are you going?" Jingni asked.
"I'll take a walk around and be back at noon."
"Um."
……
Outside Koreatown.
Xia Bing travels through the mountains and forests, collecting treasure chests.
The morning was quite fruitful.
[Received: 3 Day-Tian Pills]
[Obtained: Cloud Step x1]
[Received: A certain amount of silver]
At noon, Xia Bing started walking back.
He paused as he passed through a valley.
A fight is taking place in the valley.
A white-haired woman was surrounded and attacked by three men in black.
The woman wore a white dress, had a cool and aloof expression, gray-blue eye makeup, and two gemstones embedded in the corners of her eyes.
Gray hair.
Xia Bing thought of the characters in "Qin's Moon".
Yuki Onna.
He had seen the anime and knew this person's story.
All three men in black were at the late stage of the Acquired Realm, as was the Snow Maiden, but they were clearly outmatched in a three-on-one fight.
"Grab her!" a man in black shouted.
The snow woman didn't speak, but simply gripped her sword tighter.
Her white dress was stained with blood, but her gaze remained cold.
"What do you want?"
"What we want isn't important; what's important is that you come with us."
The snow woman turned and darted into the depths of the valley.
"Chase!"
Xia Bing watched for a while, then flashed away and rushed towards the valley.
……
Deep in the valley.
The snow woman was forced to the edge of a cliff.
Behind him was an abyss, and in front of him were three men in black.
"Run! Why did you stop running?"
The snow woman did not speak.
She knew she couldn't win.
Just as she was preparing to fight desperately, a figure landed in front of her.
Xia Bing had her back to the three men in black.
"Get out of the way," he said.
The snow woman paused for a moment.
"Who are you?" the man in black frowned. "Mind your own business!"
"Three men are bullying one woman." Xia Bing turned around. "I'm going to get involved in this."
"court death!"
A man in black rushed forward, his sword aimed straight at Xia Bing's chest.
Xia Bing raised her hand and grasped the sword's edge.
"What?!" The man in black's pupils shrank.
Xia Bing exerted force, and the sword tip broke.
He slapped the man in black in the chest with his backhand.
"Bang--"
The man in black was sent flying backward, crashing to the ground and losing consciousness.
The other two men in black had drastic changes in expression.
"Innate? Run!"
The two turned and fled.
Xia Bing did not chase after her.
He glanced back at the Snow Woman.
"Are you alright?"
The snow woman looked at him without saying a word.
"...Thank you," she whispered.
"You're welcome." Xia Bing glanced at her. "You're injured, get it treated first. Follow me."
He turned and walked out of the valley.
The snow woman followed.
……
Outside the valley.
"What's your name?"
"Snow Woman."
"Xia Bing," he said, "where did you come from?"
"The State of Zhao."
"How did you end up in South Korea?"
"They escaped."
Xia Bing didn't ask any more questions.
Do you know martial arts?
"I know some."
"That's fine then." Xia Bing continued walking forward. "Come back with me first, and we'll talk more after you've recovered."
The snow woman followed behind him.
"You're such an annoying person."
The snow woman suddenly spoke.
Xia Bing paused, turned around and glanced at her.
"Likewise."
"..."
The snow woman was taken aback, not expecting him to answer like that.
"Why do you want to help me?" she continued to ask.
Xia Bing stopped and looked back at her.
"smoothly."
"smoothly?"
"Hmm." Xia Bing shrugged. "I just happened to be passing by, and I just happened to see it, so I helped. Let's go, my mother and friend are still waiting for me."
He continued walking forward.
……
evening.
Xia Bing led the Snow Maiden back to the courtyard.
Jingni stood in the courtyard and saw him bring back a white-haired woman.
"Who is this?"
"I found her on the road," Xia Bing said. "Let her stay for a few days."
Jingni glanced at Xue Nu but didn't ask any more questions.
Xia Yufang carried Xia Yan out.
"This girl is...?"
"Her name is Yuki-onna. She's a little injured; let her rest here for now."
Xia Yufang looked at the snow maiden's white hair and aloof face.
"Come in quickly, I'll get you something to eat."
Xue Nu nodded and followed Xia Yufang into the house.
Jingni stood still, watching the Snow Maiden's back.
This woman exudes a murderous aura.
He is not an ordinary person.
She glanced at Xia Bing, who simply shrugged.
The morning air in Xinzheng City is slightly damp.
Xia Bing stood in the courtyard, looking at her surroundings. The house wasn't large, but it was clean and tidy, enough for the few of them to stay in.
"The place is alright," he muttered to himself.
Footsteps sounded behind them, and Jingni came out of the house carrying Xia Yan.
"Where is Mother?" Xia Bing asked.
"Hurry up inside," Jingni said. "She said she wanted to make the bed."
"Okay." Xia Bing nodded. "Let's settle in first, we'll talk about other things later."
Jingni glanced at him but didn't say anything.
Xia Yan babbled in her arms, waving her little hands, seemingly very interested in this new environment.
"Come here, let Daddy hold you." Xia Bing reached out and took her son.
Xia Yan giggled and slapped Xia Bing's face with her little hand, leaving a few drool marks.
"This kid." Xia Bing smiled helplessly and wiped her face with her sleeve.
Jing Ni's lips curled up slightly; this was a rare moment of tenderness for her.
"Xia Bing," she said.
"Um?"
"Are we... really staying here?"
"Let's stay here for now." Xia Bing looked at her son. "South Korea is relatively peaceful. The matter with Ye Mu is temporarily over, but we still need to find a place to stay."
"What about the Zhao state...?"
"The Net won't be able to catch up to me here for now," Xia Bing said. "Besides, with their strength, they can't do anything to me."
Jingni didn't ask any more questions.
She knew Xia Bing was telling the truth.
……
Around noon.
Xia Yufang came out of the house and saw Xia Bing teasing Xia Yan in the yard, and a smile appeared on her face.
"This child is becoming more and more like you."
"Like me?" Xia Bing raised an eyebrow. "Was I this mischievous when I was little?"
"Even more mischievous than you were when you were little." Xia Yufang walked over. "You weren't this cheerful back then."
Xia Bing smiled and did not refute.
"Mother, I'm going out for a bit."
Where to?
"Let's wander around and get familiar with the surroundings," Xia Bing said, handing Xia Yan to Jing Ni. "And see what good stuff there is in Xinzheng City."
"I'll go with you," Jingni said.
"No need," Xia Bing shook her head. "You stay here to take care of Mother and Xia Yan. I can go by myself."
"……good."
Jing Ni did not persist.
Xia Bing turned and walked towards the door.
"Come back soon," Jingni said from behind.
"Don't worry, I'll definitely be back before dark."
……
People come and go on the streets of Xinzheng.
Xia Bing walked down the street, looking at the shops and pedestrians around her.
The capital of the State of Han was indeed more prosperous than that of the State of Zhao, with wider streets and more bustling shops.
He opened the system map as he walked.
On the map, every corner of Xinzheng City is marked with a bright dot.
That's where the treasure chest is.
"There are a few here..." Xia Bing glanced around, "Let's start with the ones closest to us."
He turned and walked into a small alley.
Deep in the alley, in an inconspicuous corner, sits a dusty, gray box.
[Found 1 Normal Treasure Chest]
Xia Bing walked over and opened the box.
[Received: Fifty taels of silver]
"Not bad." He put the silver into his pocket. "Continue."
Over the next hour, Xia Bing wandered around Xinzheng City and collected seven or eight treasure chests.
[Received: 300 taels of silver]
[Received: Healing Pill x2]
[Received: 1-year-old Ganoderma lucidum]
[Received: Snow Lotus x1]
"Lingzhi and snow lotus?" Xia Bing's eyes lit up as she looked at the two medicinal herbs in her hand.
These two items are quite rare; they can be used for alchemy or consumed directly, and they can greatly aid in cultivation.
He found a secluded spot and carefully examined the two medicinal herbs.
The Ganoderma lucidum is entirely red and emits a faint fragrance.
The snow lotus is as white as snow, with glistening dewdrops on its petals.
"These are all good things." Xia Bing nodded in satisfaction. "I'll take them back to Mother and Jing Ni."
……
It was evening.
When Xia Bing returned to the mansion, it was already dark.
Jingni stood at the door waiting, and breathed a sigh of relief when she saw him return.
"I'm back."
"Hmm." Xia Bing walked into the courtyard. "Nothing happened, right?"
"No." Jingni shook her head. "Xia Yan is very well-behaved; she's been sleeping the whole time."
"That's good."
Xia Bing went into the house and took out two medicinal herbs from her bosom.
"What is this?" Xia Yufang's eyes lit up when she saw it.
"Lingzhi and snow lotus." Xia Bing placed the medicinal herbs on the table. "They're good for cultivation; you and Jing Ni should share them."
"This..." Xia Yufang hesitated, "Wouldn't it be too wasteful for me to use something so precious?"
"What are you saying, Mother?" Xia Bing smiled. "This stuff is for you to use; there's no point in wasting it."
Xia Yufang looked at him, her eyes slightly moist.
"You child..."
"Alright, alright, don't overthink it." Xia Bing waved her hand. "Focus on getting better first, we'll talk about other things later."
Jingni stood aside, looking at the two medicinal herbs, feeling somewhat moved.
She knew how precious these things were.
Xia Bing, however, took it out for them to use without hesitation.
"Thank you," she whispered.
"No need to thank me." Xia Bing glanced at her. "You're one of my people, this is only what I should do."
Jingni lowered her head and remained silent.
But her heart felt warm.
……
night.
Xia Bing sat in the courtyard, looking at the stars in the sky.
Jingni came out of the house and sat down next to him.
"Xia Bing."
"Um?"
"Did you find anything interesting today?"
"Not bad." Xia Bing leaned back in her chair. "I've collected a few things, and I'm fairly satisfied."
"That's good."
The two remained silent for a while.
"Jing Ni."
"Um?"
Do you regret it?
"Regret what?"
"Follow me." Xia Bing looked at her. "You'll be homeless, wandering from place to place, and possibly hunted down by the Net."
Jingni remained silent for a moment.
"No regrets," she said. "Following you is a hundred times better than being in the Net."
Xia Bing smiled.
"Then don't regret it."
"Um."
The two sat side by side, gazing at the starry sky.
Xia Yan was asleep in the room, and Xia Yufang was keeping watch over him.
This moment is quiet and warm.
……
(And so began life in Xinzheng City.)
early morning.
The sound of weapons clashing came from the courtyard.
Xia Bing stepped out of the room and saw Jing Ni practicing her sword in the courtyard.
Her swordsmanship was sharp and precise, each strike carrying a fierce killing intent.
But Jingni seemed somewhat distracted today.
"What's wrong?" Xia Bing walked over.
Jingni sheathed her sword and glanced at him.
"It's nothing."
"It doesn't seem like nothing's wrong."
Jingni remained silent for a while.
"Xia Yan..." she whispered, "He's grown up; it's time he learned something."
Xia Bing was stunned for a moment.
"You want to teach him?"
"Hmm." Jing Ni nodded. "I come from an assassin background, and my swordsmanship is passable. I can't let him be completely clueless."
Xia Bing looked at her and suddenly smiled.
"I never knew you had this side to you."
"What kind of noodles?"
"The loving mother's side."
Jingni blushed slightly and turned her head away.
"I just... want him to be able to protect himself in the future."
"I know," Xia Bing said, walking over. "But there's no need to rush when it comes to teaching a child. How old is he?"
"He's over a year old," Jingni said. "When I was his age, I was already practicing basic skills."
"That's the training method of the Net." Xia Bing frowned. "Xia Yan is different; he has me."
Jingni looked at him.
"Will you teach him?"
"Of course." Xia Bing smiled. "My son will definitely be a master in the future."
Jing Ni didn't speak, but the corners of her mouth turned up slightly.
……
I've had breakfast.
Jingni carried Xia Yan into the courtyard.
Xia Yufang also came out and stood under the eaves watching.
Xia Bing sat on the stone bench, watching Jing Ni teach Xia Yan.
"Here, hold the hilt." Jing Ni handed a short sword to Xia Yan.
Xia Yan looked at the sword curiously and reached out her little hand to grab it.
But the sword was too heavy for him to handle.
"It's okay, take your time." Jingni's voice was unusually gentle.
She took another wooden stick and handed it to Xia Yan.
Xia Yan caught it this time, waving it in the air and giggling.
"Is this considered sword practice?" Xia Bing couldn't help but laugh out loud from the side.
Jingni glared at him.
"The first stage is to familiarize him with the feeling of holding a sword."
"Alright, alright, you can continue." Xia Bing waved her hand, looking like she was watching a good show.
Jingni ignored him and continued to teach Xia Yan.
Although Xia Yan couldn't understand, she seemed to sense her mother's seriousness and followed suit, swinging the wooden stick in a similar manner.
The scene was somewhat comical, but as Xia Bing watched it, a warm feeling welled up in her heart.
……
After a while, Xia Yan got tired, threw down the stick, and climbed into Jing Ni's arms to nurse.
Jingni held him and sat on the stone bench to feed him.
Xia Bing walked over and sat down next to her.
"Well taught."
"You're always making sarcastic remarks." Jingni glared at him.
"I'm serious," Xia Bing said, looking at Xia Yan. "This child will definitely amount to something."
How did you know?
"Because he's my son." Xia Bing smiled. "Like father, like son. With a father as capable as him, how could he be anything less?"
Jingni was speechless at his shamelessness.
"Can't you be a little more humble?"
"What's with the modesty?" Xia Bing said seriously, "I'm just telling the truth."
Jingni stared at him speechlessly.
This man can be really annoying sometimes.
……
afternoon.
Xia Yan fell asleep, and Jing Ni put him inside the house.
Xia Bing walked into the courtyard and picked up a sword.
"Come on, let me teach you a few tricks."
Jing Ni was stunned for a moment.
Didn't you say there was no need to rush?
"That was just now," Xia Bing smiled. "Now I want to teach."
Jingni looked at him without moving.
"What, you don't want to?"
"……willing."
She picked up her sword and stood opposite Xia Bing.
Xia Bing looked at her and suddenly noticed that Jing Ni's face was a little red.
"What's wrong?"
"It's nothing." Jing Ni turned her head away. "Let's begin."
Xia Bing raised an eyebrow but didn't ask any further questions.
He raised his sword and assumed a starting stance.
"Watch closely, I'll only demonstrate once."
Jingni nodded, her eyes fixed on his movements.
Xia Bing drew her sword, its light flashing like a bolt of lightning.
His swordsmanship may seem simple, but it contains profound principles.
Every move and every stance was just right, with nothing superfluous.
Jing Ni was completely absorbed in watching.
She had never seen such exquisite swordsmanship.
"Did you see it clearly?"
"I see it clearly," Jing Ni nodded, "but I can't do it."
"Take your time." Xia Bing sheathed her sword. "This sword technique is called 'Surprising Beauty,' and it's something I created myself. It emphasizes speed, accuracy, and ruthlessness—a single, fatal strike."
"You created this yourself?" Jingni looked at him in surprise.
"Hmm." Xia Bing smiled. "How about it? Your man's amazing, isn't he?"
Jingni looked at him, then suddenly reached out and pinched his waist.
"You're bragging again."
"I'm telling the truth."
"You always tell the truth."
"Of course, I never lie."
Jingni stared at him speechlessly.
This man is really asking for a beating.
……
evening.
Xia Yufang was cooking dinner in the kitchen, and Jingni was helping her.
Xia Bing was playing with Xia Yan in the yard.
"Xia Yan, call him Father." He pointed to himself.
Xia Yan tilted her head and looked at him, making muffled sounds.
"Father...Father..."
Xia Bing's eyes lit up.
"He called me 'Dad'!"
"He's only a little over a year old, he can't even speak clearly yet," Jingni poked her head out from the kitchen. "Don't teach him to bark randomly."
"How is this calling me 'dad'?" Xia Bing protested. "It's only natural for my son to call me 'Dad'!"
"He's still young, we'll teach him later."
"No, you have to call him now." Xia Bing teased Xia Yan, "Come on, call him 'Daddy' again."
Xia Yan giggled, drool dripping from her mouth.
"Father...Father..."
"Good son!" Xia Bing was overjoyed and kissed him on the cheek.
Xia Yan was startled by his kiss, then reached out her little hand and patted his face.
The father and son had a great time.
Jingni watched this scene with a slight smile on her lips.
Xia Yufang walked over, saw this scene, and smiled.
"This father and son are truly cut from the same cloth."
"Are they all this cheeky?" Xia Bing laughed.
"You're both so shameless." Xia Yufang rolled her eyes at him. "You were like this when you were little, always clinging to your dad wanting to be held."
Do I have one?
"have."
Xia Bing touched her nose and remained silent.
……
night.
The family sat together for a meal.
Xia Yan sat on Xia Bing's lap, occasionally reaching out to grab the food from the plate.
"Stop fooling around and eat properly." Xia Bing pressed down on his little hand.
Xia Yan made a few dissatisfied noises, but still sat there obediently.
"This child looks like you," Jingni said.
"Like me in what way?"
"Just like you, disobedient."
"When have I ever been disobedient?"
"You know the answer in your heart."
Xia Bing smiled and did not refute.
Xia Yufang watched them bicker and shook her head with a smile.
These days are wonderful.
……
After finishing the meal.
Xia Bing carried Xia Yan around the yard, trying to lull him to sleep.
Jingni came out of the house and stood next to him.
"Let me carry you."
"No need," Xia Bing shook her head. "You go and rest, I'll comfort him."
"Are you sure you can do it?"
"Why not?" Xia Bing laughed. "I'm his father."
Jingni looked at him and did not insist any further.
She leaned against a pillar, watching Xia Bing comfort her son.
The moonlight shone on them, making the silhouettes of the father and son look especially warm and loving.
"Xia Bing."
"Um?"
"Thank you."
"What are you thanking me for?"
"Thank you... for giving us a home."
Xia Bing looked at her and suddenly smiled.
"Fool, you're mine, this is your home."
Jingni lowered her head and remained silent.
But her eyes were a little moist.
Xia Bing carried Xia Yan over and put her arm around her waist.
"Don't cry, I'm here for you, everything will be alright in the future."
"I didn't cry."
"Okay, okay, you didn't cry."
Xia Bing smiled and kissed her on the forehead.
Jingni nestled in his arms, while Xia Yan fell asleep between them.
The moonlight, like water, shone down on the three of them.
This moment is quiet and beautiful.
……
(That night, Jingni slept soundly.)
(Because she knew that from now on, she would no longer be alone.)
early morning.
When Xia Bing got up, she found that there were already people in the yard.
The Snow Woman stood in the courtyard, holding a long sword, practicing her swordsmanship.
Her swordsmanship was light and agile, with a touch of elegance.
White hair fluttered in the morning breeze, like a silver waterfall.
Xia Bing leaned against the door frame, watching her movements.
It must be said that the Snow Woman's swordsmanship is indeed quite good.
Although she hasn't reached the Innate Realm yet, her sword skills are already quite impressive.
"Have you seen enough?" the Snow Woman suddenly asked.
She didn't turn around, but she had clearly noticed Xia Bing's presence.
"Not yet." Xia Bing walked over. "Who taught you your swordsmanship?"
The snow woman sheathed her sword and glanced at him.
"Master."
Who is your master?
"...The Snow Woman was silent for a moment, then said, "She's gone."
Xia Bing was stunned for a moment.
"Feel sorry."
"It's alright," the Snow Woman shook her head, "It was a long time ago."
She turned and walked into the house.
"Wait a minute," Xia Bing called out to her.
The snow woman stopped in her tracks.
"What's wrong?"
"Would you like to learn more advanced sword techniques?"
The snow woman turned around and looked at him.
"...Will you teach me?"
"Since you live here, you're one of us." Xia Bing smiled. "Of course we'll take care of you."
The snow woman looked at him with a complicated expression.
Why are you so nice to me?
"I already asked, you're the person I saved." Xia Bing leaned against a pillar. "It was just a small favor, nothing serious."
The Snow Woman remained silent.
It was "just in passing" again.
She didn't know what to say.
"What, you don't want to?" Xia Bing looked at her.
"...I'm willing." The snow woman nodded. "Thank you."
"You're welcome." Xia Bing turned and walked into the courtyard. "Come on, let me take a look at your features first."
……
For the next hour, Xia Bing continued to instruct Xue Nu on her swordsmanship.
He discovered that the Snow Woman was indeed quite talented and had a high level of comprehension.
He only needed to explain many of the principles of swordsmanship once for her to understand.
"Not bad." Xia Bing sheathed her sword. "Your foundation is better than I expected."
The snow woman wiped the sweat from her forehead.
"It's still a long way off."
"Take your time, no rush." Xia Bing looked at her. "Your current cultivation level is at the peak of the Acquired Realm, just one step away from breaking through to the Innate Realm."
"Innate..." the Snow Woman whispered, "I've tried, it's very difficult."
"I know." Xia Bing nodded. "Innate factors are a hurdle; many people get stuck at this stage their entire lives."
"Can you break through?"
"Yes," Xia Bing smiled, "but not now."
The snow woman looked at him without saying a word.
She knew Xia Bing was very strong.
But she couldn't see how strong it really was.
"That's all for today." Xia Bing put her sword back in its rack. "We'll continue tomorrow."
"……good."
The snow woman turned and walked into the house.
"Snow Woman."
She stopped again.
"What's wrong?"
"...It's nothing, get some rest."
The snow woman didn't say anything and continued walking into the house.
But her steps were lighter than before.
……
noon.
Xia Bing was resting inside, while Xue Nu was practicing her swordsmanship outside.
Jing Ni carried Xia Yan over.
"Is the Snow Woman practicing her sword?"
"Yes." Xia Bing nodded. "I had her practice."
"Teach her swordsmanship?"
"Give me some pointers." Xia Bing glanced at Jing Ni. "What's wrong?"
"It's nothing," Jingni shook her head, "I just feel... you're very kind to the Snow Maiden."
Xia Bing raised an eyebrow.
Are you jealous?
"No." Jing Ni turned her head away. "I just..."
"Just what?"
"...It's nothing."
Xia Bing smiled.
He reached out and pulled Jingni into his arms.
"Don't worry, no matter who I'm good to, you'll always be mine."
Jingni nestled in his arms without saying a word.
"Xia Bing."
"Um?"
"The Snow Woman... she seems to treat you differently."
Xia Bing was stunned for a moment.
"What do you mean?"
"I can tell," Jing Ni whispered. "The way she looks at you... is different from how she looks at others."
Xia Bing fell silent.
He did notice that the Snow Woman had been acting differently lately.
But he didn't think much of it.
"You're overthinking it," he said.
"Really?" Jingni looked up at him.
"Yes." Xia Bing kissed her forehead. "Don't overthink it. Don't you understand how I feel about you?"
Jingni looked at him without saying a word.
But she felt uneasy.
……
in the afternoon.
Xia Bing played with Xia Yan in the yard, while Xue Nu watched from the side.
"Xia Bing," she suddenly said.
"Um?"
"Thank you for teaching me swordsmanship today."
"You're welcome." Xia Bing teased Xia Yan, "You have good talent, practice hard, and you'll be successful in the future."
The snow woman looked at him, hesitant to speak.
"What's wrong?" Xia Bing noticed her unusual behavior. "Just say what's on your mind."
"...It's nothing." The Snow Woman shook her head and turned to walk into the house.
Xia Bing frowned as she watched her retreating figure.
"This woman is acting strangely today."
Xia Yan babbled in his arms, as if she were echoing his words.
"You think so too?" Xia Bing smiled. "That's right, your father thinks so too."
……
evening.
Xia Bing went out to collect treasure chests.
The snow woman stood at the doorway, watching him leave.
"Where are you going?" she asked.
"Let's go for a walk." Xia Bing turned around. "What's wrong?"
"...It's nothing, come back soon."
Xia Bing smiled, turned and left.
The snow woman stood at the door, watching his figure disappear at the end of the alley.
Her eyes held a complex expression.
……
into the night.
When Xia Bing returned, it was already completely dark.
The Snow Woman sat in the courtyard, looking at the stars in the sky.
"Why aren't you asleep yet?" Xia Bing walked over.
"I can't sleep," said the Snow Woman.
Xia Bing sat down next to her.
"What are you thinking about?"
The snow woman did not answer.
The two remained silent for a while.
"Xia Bing," the Snow Woman suddenly spoke.
"Um?"
"Do you... have someone you like?"
Xia Bing was stunned for a moment.
"Why are you suddenly asking this?"
"It's nothing," the Snow Woman said, lowering her head. "Just asking."
Xia Bing glanced at her.
Under the moonlight, the Snow Woman's profile is beautiful.
Her long, silvery-white hair cascaded over her shoulders, making her skin appear as smooth as jade.
"Yes," he said.
The snow woman's body stiffened slightly.
"...Who is it?"
"My mother," Xia Bing smiled, "and my son."
The snow woman paused for a moment, then breathed a sigh of relief.
"Be serious."
"I'm being very serious." Xia Bing looked at her. "Why are you asking this? Do you have someone you like?"
The snow woman did not answer.
She stood up.
"It's getting late, I'm going back to sleep."
"Wait." Xia Bing grabbed her hand.
The snow woman's body stiffened.
"What's wrong?"
Xia Bing looked at her with a serious expression.
"Snow Woman, I know what you want to ask."
The Snow Woman's heart skipped a beat.
"You want to ask how I feel about you," Xia Bing said, "right?"
The snow woman lowered her head and remained silent.
"To be honest," Xia Bing released her hand, "at first, I did save you on a whim. But now..."
"What's going on now?"
"Now you're mine." Xia Bing looked at her. "Living here means you're family."
The snow woman looked up at him.
"Just...family?"
Xia Bing remained silent for a while.
"What else do you want?"
The snow woman did not speak.
She turned and walked into the house.
"Snow Woman."
She stopped in her tracks.
"If you'd like..." Xia Bing said, "you can stay here indefinitely."
The snow woman's body trembled slightly.
She didn't turn around.
"...I do."
Her voice was very low, almost inaudible.
Xia Bing smiled.
"Then get some rest."
"……Um."
The snow woman quickly went into the house and closed the door.
Xia Bing looked at the door and shook her head.
"This woman, really..."
He looked up at the stars in the sky and suddenly smiled.
Some things don't need to be explained too clearly.
Just let things take their natural course.
……
(The night in Xinzheng City is very quiet.)
(But some people can't sleep.)
morning.
Xia Bing was in the courtyard instructing the Snow Maiden Sword Technique when someone suddenly knocked on the door.
"I'll go open it." Jing Ni stood up.
A moment later, Jingni led a woman into the courtyard.
With purple hair and a purple dress, she was stunningly beautiful.
It was Zi Nu.
"Young Master Xia," Zi Nu smiled slightly, "I apologize for disturbing you."
"Miss Zi Nu?" Xia Bing was somewhat surprised. "What brings you here?"
"I was just passing by and thought I'd take a look." Zi Nu's gaze swept across the courtyard. "This house is nice, quiet."
"It'll have to do." Xia Bing gestured for her to sit down. "Sit down and have a cup of tea."
Zi Nu sat down on the stone bench, her gaze lingering on Xue Nu for a moment.
The Snow Woman sheathed her sword and stood aside.
"This must be the Snow Woman," said the Purple Woman with a smile. "I've long admired your name."
"...Hello," the Snow Woman said calmly.
Zi Nu smiled, not taking her coldness to heart.
"Young Master Xia, Zi Lan Xuan recently received a batch of new tea; it tastes quite good." She took out a porcelain bottle from her sleeve. "I specially brought some for you."
"Miss Zi Nu is too kind." Xia Bing accepted the porcelain bottle. "I can't accept this tea for nothing."
"It's just a small token," Zi Nu said, looking at him. "If Young Master Xia doesn't accept it, it would be disrespectful to Zi Nu."
Xia Bing smiled helplessly.
"Then I'll accept it without being impolite."
"That's more like it." Zi Nu smiled with satisfaction.
……
The two chatted for a while.
Zi Nu spoke about the recent situation in Xinzheng City.
"After the matter of Nightfall was resolved, the situation in Korea has become much more stable," she said. "Young Master Han Fei is now in charge of the Ministry of Justice and is currently reorganizing domestic affairs."
"Han Fei is a capable man," Xia Bing nodded. "Handing Han over to him should be fine."
"Young Master Xia has good judgment," Zi Nu said with a smile. "Young Master Han Fei is indeed quite capable."
"Miss Zi and him..."
"We're just friends," Zi Nu interrupted him. "Young Master Xia, don't overthink it."
Xia Bing raised an eyebrow but didn't ask any further questions.
Zi Nu glanced at him and suddenly smiled.
"Young Master Xia, there's a hidden meaning in your words."
"No," Xia Bing said seriously. "I was just thinking that with such high standards, Miss Zi Nu must find most people unworthy of your attention."
"Young Master Xia certainly knows how to talk," Zi Nu said, covering her mouth with a smile. "But you're right, most people don't meet my standards."
"So what kind of people are eligible to get in?"
Zi Nu looked at him with a meaningful gaze.
"Does Young Master Xia want to hear the truth?"
"think."
"Then you have to treat me to a meal."
Xia Bing paused for a moment, then smiled.
"Okay, I'll treat you another day."
"It's a deal." Zi Nu extended her little finger. "Pinky promise."
Xia Bing watched her actions, feeling both amused and exasperated.
This woman, sometimes she really is like a child.
He reached out his hand and made a pinky promise with her.
"A pinky promise, a hundred years from now," Zi Nu laughed. "Young Master Xia, you can't go back on your word."
"Don't worry, I'm a man of my word."
Zi Nu nodded in satisfaction.
Her gaze swept across the courtyard again, finally settling on the Snow Woman.
"Miss Snow Maiden, do you live with Young Master Xia?"
The snow woman paused for a moment.
"……yes."
"That's wonderful!" Zi Nu said with a smile. "We can visit each other more often from now on."
The Snow Maiden glanced at Xia Bing but said nothing.
"What's wrong?" Zi Nu noticed her gaze. "Speak your mind."
"...It's nothing." The Snow Woman shook her head, turned, and walked into the house. "You two chat, I'm going to rest."
Zi Nu watched her retreating figure, lost in thought.
"Young Master Xia."
"Um?"
"The Snow Maiden... seems to treat you differently."
Xia Bing picked up her teacup and took a sip.
"Miss Zi Nu, what do you want to say?"
"It's nothing," Zi Nu smiled. "It's just that I feel the way Xue Nu looks at you is different from how she looks at others."
Xia Bing put down her teacup.
"You're overthinking it."
"Really?" Zi Nu looked at him. "Then, Young Master Xia, whose gaze is different?"
Xia Bing did not answer.
He looked at Zi Nu and suddenly smiled.
"Miss Zi Nu, what do you mean by that?"
"It's nothing," Zi Nu stood up. "Just chatting. Young Master Xia, please don't take it to heart."
"Then I'll take it seriously."
"Suit yourself." Zi Nu straightened her skirt. "It's getting late, I should go."
"I send you."
"No need." Zi Nu waved her hand. "Young Master Xia, please wait."
She walked towards the door.
She suddenly stopped when she reached the door.
"By the way, Young Master Xia."
"Um?"
"Come visit Zilanxuan next time." She turned around, her smile meaningful. "I have fine tea and kind people there."
After saying that, she turned and left.
Xia Bing watched her retreating figure and shook her head.
"This woman, really..."
……
in the afternoon.
Xia Bing sat in the courtyard, while Xue Nu came out of the house.
"Zi Nu is gone?"
"They're gone." Xia Bing nodded. "What happened?"
"It's nothing." The snow woman sat down next to him. "She... seems quite interested in you."
"Yeah?"
Don't you think so?
Xia Bing glanced at her.
"You sound like you're jealous."
The snow woman blushed slightly.
"I didn't."
"That's good." Xia Bing smiled. "Jealousy is bad for your health."
The snow woman glared at him but didn't say anything.
Xia Bing leaned back in her chair, looking at the clouds in the sky.
"Actually, Zi Nu is a smart person."
"What do you mean?"
"Her coming here isn't just about delivering tea," Xia Bing said. "She's testing us."
"What are you testing?"
"Testing me," Xia Bing looked at her, "and testing you too."
The Snow Woman frowned.
"What do I have to test?"
"Look at our relationship," Xia Bing smiled, "look at where you stand in my heart."
The snow woman fell silent.
"Did she figure it out?"
"Probably." Xia Bing stretched. "But it doesn't matter, I didn't intend to hide it from anyone anyway."
The snow woman looked at him, hesitant to speak.
"What's wrong?" Xia Bing noticed her unusual behavior. "Just say what's on your mind."
"...Xia Bing, what are you really thinking?"
"What are you thinking about?"
"about Us."
Xia Bing remained silent for a while.
"Snow Woman, do you want to hear the truth?"
"think."
"To be honest..." Xia Bing looked at her, "I haven't decided yet."
The snow woman's eyes dimmed slightly.
"But," Xia Bing continued, "there is one thing I can be sure of."
"What is it?"
"You're mine." Xia Bing smiled. "That will never change."
The snow woman raised her head and looked at him.
"...You're always like this."
"What?"
"Say something...that will touch people's hearts."
Xia Bing smiled.
"Really? Do you like it?"
The snow woman did not answer.
She stood up and walked into the house.
"I'll go check on Xia Yan."
"Hey, I'm asking you a question."
The Snow Woman ignored him and went straight into the house.
Xia Bing looked at the door and shook her head.
"This woman, she really is..."
He looked up at the sky and suddenly sighed.
Love is indeed the most troublesome thing.
……
night.
The family sat together for a meal.
Snow Maiden sat next to Xia Bing, eating with her head down and not saying much.
Jingni glanced at her, seemingly lost in thought.
Xia Yufang sensed that something was off, but didn't ask any further questions.
"Xia Bing," Xia Yufang began, "did you gain anything from your trip today?"
"Not bad." Xia Bing snapped out of her reverie. "I collected a few treasure chests and got some good stuff."
"What good stuff?"
"Some pills and silver," Xia Bing said, picking up a piece of food. "And a sword technique."
"Swordsmanship?" Xia Yufang's eyes lit up. "What swordsmanship?"
"The swordsmanship of the Eight Swords of the King of Yue," Xia Bing glanced at Jing Ni, "is perfect for teaching Xia Yan."
Jing Ni was stunned for a moment.
"You've collected the Eight Swords of Yue?"
"Yes." Xia Bing nodded. "Although it's an incomplete copy, it's enough."
The Eight Swords of Yue were eight famous swords forged by Ou Yezi at the behest of King Goujian of Yue.
Each sword has a unique lineage of swordsmanship.
The Jingni Sword in Jingni's hand is one of them.
"You plan to pass on your swordsmanship to Xia Yan?" Jing Ni asked.
"Of course," Xia Bing smiled. "My son should naturally learn the best swordsmanship."
Jingni looked at him, her eyes slightly moist.
"Xia Bing..."
"What's wrong?"
"……Thank you."
"No need to thank me." Xia Bing smiled. "He's my son, it's only right that I do this."
Xia Yan was babbling incoherently beside her, making out something unintelligible.
Xia Bing reached out and rubbed his head.
"Come here, son, call me father."
"Father...Father..."
"Good son!"
The family laughed.
This moment is warm and beautiful.
……
(The night in Xinzheng City is very quiet.)
(But in some people's hearts, ripples were stirred.)
into the night.
Xia Bing lay in bed, tossing and turning, unable to fall asleep.
Today's events have been bothering him.
Snow Woman, Purple Woman...
What are these women thinking?
He sighed and sat up.
"What's wrong?" Jingni's voice came from the side.
"I can't sleep," Xia Bing said.
"What are you thinking about?"
"It's nothing." He lay back down on the bed. "You go to sleep, don't worry about me."
Jing Ni remained silent.
She turned to look at him.
"Is it because of the Snow Woman?"
Xia Bing was stunned for a moment.
How did you know?
"I'm not stupid," Jingni said. "You looked at Xue Nu strangely today, and the way she looked at you was strange too."
Xia Bing fell silent.
"And then there's Zi Nu," Jing Ni continued, "she clearly has feelings for you."
"...What do you want to say?"
"It's nothing." Jing Ni turned her back to him. "Go to sleep, we'll talk about it tomorrow."
"Jing Ni."
"Um?"
Are you angry?
Jingni did not answer.
Xia Bing reached out and turned her around.
"Look at me."
Jingni opened her eyes and looked at him.
Her eyes shone brightly in the moonlight.
"I know what you're trying to say," Xia Bing said, "but there are some things I can't explain myself."
"Then tell me slowly."
"Okay." Xia Bing sighed. "Actually, I do have feelings for Xue Nu and Zi Nu."
Jing Ni's body stiffened slightly.
"But despite my feelings for her," Xia Bing continued, "I haven't decided what to do yet."
"...Are you planning to take them all?"
"I didn't say that," Xia Bing said with a wry smile. "I just felt... these things should be left to nature."
Jing Ni fell silent.
"Jingni, don't overthink it." Xia Bing pulled her into her arms. "No matter what, you're my first woman, and that won't change."
"The first one..." Jing Ni whispered, "And the second one? And the third one?"
"If it happens," Xia Bing smiled, "that's a matter for the future."
Jing Ni remained silent.
She buried her face in Xia Bing's chest, trying to hide her expression from him.
"Jingni, what are you thinking about?"
"...I was thinking, the Snow Woman is so pitiful."
Xia Bing was stunned for a moment.
"Pitiful?"
"Hmm," Jingni said, "She likes you, but you're unsure whether to accept her."
"How is that pitiful?"
"Because you like someone, but don't get a response," Jingni whispered, "that's the most painful thing."
Xia Bing fell silent.
He suddenly realized that Jingni was telling the truth.
"Jing Ni, have you... ever felt this way too?"
Jingni did not answer.
But her silence was the best answer.
Xia Bing sighed and hugged her even tighter.
"sorry."
"You haven't done anything to wrong me," Jingni whispered. "You're my first man, and the only one I want to be with."
"and you……"
"I don't ask for much." Jingni looked up at him, "As long as you have me in your heart, that's enough."
Xia Bing looked into her eyes.
Under the moonlight, her eyes were very gentle.
"Yes," he said. "It has always been there."
Jingni laughed.
This was the first time Xia Bing had seen her smile so happily.
"That's good."
The two fell asleep in each other's arms.
The moonlight shone on them, making them feel especially warm and cozy.
……
In the next room.
The snow woman lay on the bed, staring at the ceiling with her eyes open.
She heard the noise from next door.
She heard Xia Bing and Jing Ni's conversation clearly.
"Is the Snow Woman... pitiful?"
She muttered to herself, a bitter smile playing on her lips.
"Maybe."
She turned over and buried her face in the pillow.
There were some things she already knew.
She knew it from the very beginning.
Xia Bing's feelings for Jing Ni are different from her feelings for her.
Jingni was his first woman.
She was just a stranger who was rescued.
"But..." the snow woman closed her eyes, "I still love you..."
Tears streamed down her face, soaking the pillow.
She didn't know when she fell asleep.
All I remember is that Xia Bing's image is all I see in my dreams.
……
The next morning.
When Xia Bing got up, she found that Xue Nu was already practicing her sword in the courtyard.
Her swordsmanship was even more ferocious than yesterday, seemingly carrying a hint of catharsis.
Xia Bing frowned.
"Snow Woman."
The snow woman sheathed her sword and glanced at him.
"What's wrong?"
"How are you?"
"Very good." The Snow Woman said expressionlessly. "Don't worry."
"But you last night..."
"I told you, don't worry," the Snow Maiden interrupted him, turning to walk into the house. "I'm going to check on Xia Yan."
Xia Bing watched her retreating figure and sighed.
This woman is definitely overthinking things.
He went inside and happened to run into Jingni coming out.
"What's wrong with the Snow Woman?" Jingni asked.
"I don't know." Xia Bing shook her head. "She might have overheard what I said yesterday."
Jingni remained silent for a while.
"So what do you plan to do?"
"I don't know." Xia Bing smiled wryly. "I have no experience with matters of the heart."
"You've never liked anyone before?"
"Yes," Xia Bing thought for a moment, "but there's no result."
"What kind?"
"It's too complicated to explain," Xia Bing shook her head. "In short, I don't know how to handle this situation."
Jingni looked at him and suddenly smiled.
"I never thought you'd have such worries too."
"What, you're happy?"
"A little." Jing Ni's lips curled into a smile. "Aren't you usually quite capable?"
"What can I do?"
"You're quite the actor," Jingni rolled her eyes at him, "pretending to be someone who doesn't care about anything."
Xia Bing smiled helplessly.
"You saw right through me."
"You're my man, of course I understand you." Jing Ni leaned against the doorframe. "However, about the Snow Maiden..."
"What's wrong?"
"If you really have feelings for her," Jingni said, "then make a decision sooner rather than later."
"What decision?"
"Accept, or refuse." Jingni looked at him. "Don't keep her waiting."
Xia Bing fell silent.
Jing Ni's words surprised him somewhat.
"You... don't mind?"
"What do you mind?" Jing Ni smiled. "Anyway, you're not the only woman by your side."
How did you know?
"Just a guess." Jingni looked at him. "Given your personality, you wouldn't spend your whole life with just one woman."
Xia Bing was speechless.
Because what Jingni said was indeed what he truly felt.
"Then... let nature take its course?"
"Whatever you want." Jingni turned and walked into the house. "Whatever you do, I'll support you."
Why?
Jingni stopped and looked back at him.
"Because you are my man."
After she finished speaking, she went straight into the house.
Xia Bing watched her retreating figure and suddenly smiled.
"This woman..."
He shook his head and walked into the courtyard.
The Snow Woman reappeared at some point, standing in a corner, looking at the clouds in the sky.
Her figure looked somewhat lonely.
Xia Bing sighed.
Love is indeed the most troublesome thing.
But since we've encountered this situation, we can only face it.
"Snow Woman."
The snow woman turned around.
Are you free at noon?
"……have."
"Come for a walk with me."
The snow woman paused for a moment.
Where to?
"You'll see when you get there," Xia Bing smiled. "Don't overthink it, it's just a short trip."
The snow woman looked at him with a complicated expression.
"……good."
……
(A bright and sunny morning in Xinzheng City.)
(Some stories are just beginning.)
noon.
Xia Bing led the Snow Maiden out the door.
"Where to?" the Snow Woman asked.
"There's a hot spring outside the city," Xia Bing said. "Soaking in it is good for your health."
The snow woman blushed slightly.
"You... want me to soak in the hot springs?"
"Yes." Xia Bing nodded. "You didn't sleep well last night; soaking in the hot spring can relieve your fatigue."
The snow woman glanced at him but didn't say anything.
She knew Xia Bing was just making excuses.
But she did not refuse.
……
Ten miles outside the city.
In a valley, there is a hot spring.
Steam rose and mist filled the air.
"This is it." Xia Bing stopped. "You soak for a while, I'll go take a walk around."
"Aren't you going to take a bath?"
"No, thank you." Xia Bing smiled. "I'm afraid you'll feel embarrassed."
The snow woman glared at him.
"You're overthinking it."
"Really?" Xia Bing raised an eyebrow. "Then why didn't you go when Zi Nu invited you to take a bath last time?"
The snow woman's face turned even redder.
"That's...different."
"How are they different?"
"It's just different." The snow woman turned her head away. "Don't ask anymore."
Xia Bing looked at her and suddenly smiled.
"Okay, okay, I won't ask anymore." He turned and walked to the side. "Take your time soaking, I'll be nearby."
The Snow Woman watched his departing figure and breathed a sigh of relief.
……
At the hot spring.
The snow woman removed her outer garment and slowly walked into the water.
The warm water enveloped her body, gradually relaxing her tense nerves.
She leaned against the edge of the pool and closed her eyes.
"That feels so good..."
She murmured to herself, her tightly furrowed brows relaxing.
These days, she has been suppressing her feelings.
She knew that Xia Bing had Jing Ni in her heart.
She also knew that she shouldn't have any improper thoughts.
But feelings are something you can't just control.
"Why him of all people..." the Snow Woman sighed softly.
She recalled the first time she met Xia Bing.
At that time, she was surrounded by three men in black and was in dire straits.
Xia Bing saved her.
"Get out of the way." He only said two words.
Then, he slapped an enemy away with one palm.
At that time, he stood with his back to her, like a mountain.
"Don't overthink it," she told herself. "He just happened to save you."
"You're just a stranger who was taken in."
Don't ask for too much...
However, I couldn't suppress the flutter in my heart.
"Snow Woman, you're such a fool."
She smiled bitterly and buried her face in the water.
……
Half an hour later.
Xia Bing is back.
The snow woman was already dressed and was waiting for him by the pool.
"Is it ready?"
"Mm." The snow woman nodded. "Thank you."
"No need to thank me, it was just a small favor."
The snow woman looked at him and suddenly spoke.
"Xia Bing."
"Um?"
"You brought me here...is there something you want to tell me?"
Xia Bing was stunned for a moment.
This woman is truly perceptive.
"You saw right through me." He smiled. "There are indeed some things I want to tell you."
The snow woman looked at him calmly.
"Speak."
Xia Bing remained silent for a while.
"Snow Woman, I want to ask you a question."
"ask."
"do you like me?"
The snow woman's body stiffened slightly.
She hadn't expected Xia Bing to ask so directly.
"...Why do you ask that?"
"Because I want to know," Xia Bing looked at her, "what exactly are your feelings for me?"
The snow woman lowered her head and did not answer.
The valley was quiet, with only the sound of hot spring water.
It took her a long time to speak.
"Xia Bing, do you know what my master told me before he passed away?"
"What did you say?"
"She said..." The Snow Woman's voice was somewhat low, "'Snow, remember, don't lose yourself for a man.'"
Xia Bing fell silent.
"I've always remembered those words." The snow woman looked up at him. "That's why I've been alone all these years."
"I don't want to rely on anyone."
"I don't want to get hurt."
"But……"
Her voice trembled slightly.
"But after meeting you, I found myself changing."
I find myself thinking about you without even realizing it.
"I can be happy or sad because of a single word or glance from you."
"Xia Bing, do you know what this means?"
Xia Bing looked at her.
"What does it mean?"
"It means..." the Snow Woman took a deep breath, "that I like you."
After she finished speaking, it was as if she had let go of something.
I've fallen for you.
"I fell in love with you the day you saved me."
"But I've never dared to say it."
"Because I'm afraid... afraid of being rejected."
"I'm afraid we won't even be able to remain friends."
"I'm afraid I'll get hurt."
She looked at Xia Bing, her eyes slightly moist.
"Now that I've said it, I actually feel relieved."
"No matter what you think, I have no regrets."
Xia Bing looked at her and suddenly smiled.
"Snow Woman."
"Um?"
Do you know why I brought you here today?
The snow woman shook her head.
"Because I want to find a quiet place," Xia Bing said, "so I can listen to what you have to say."
"you……"
"Snow Woman, I won't lie to you." Xia Bing walked up to her. "Right now, I haven't completely made up my mind yet."
The snow woman's expression dimmed slightly.
"But," Xia Bing continued, "there is one thing I can be sure of."
"What is it?"
"You are different from everyone else in my heart."
The snow woman raised her head.
"no the same?"
"Hmm." Xia Bing looked at her. "Zi Nu, Yan Ling Ji... to me, they're just people I know."
"But you're different."
"You are the person I saved, and the person I want to protect."
"That will never change."
The snow woman looked at him, her eyes reddening even more.
"Xia Bing... what do you mean by that?"
"What I mean is..." Xia Bing reached out and gently took her hand, "Give me some time."
"Let me think this through carefully."
"Then, I will give you an answer."
The snow woman looked down at his hand.
His hands were warm.
"...Okay," she whispered, "I'll wait for you."
Xia Bing smiled.
"Then it's settled."
The snow woman nodded.
She did not pull her hand away.
The two walked out of the valley hand in hand.
……
on the way back.
The two walked side by side, neither of them speaking.
But the atmosphere was much more harmonious than when I arrived.
"Xia Bing."
"Um?"
"Don't tell Jingni about what happened today."
Why?
"Because I don't want her to overthink things," the Snow Woman said. "I'll handle our own affairs."
Xia Bing glanced at her.
Are you sure?
"I'm sure." The Snow Woman nodded. "This is between the two of us; it's nobody else's business."
Xia Bing remained silent for a while.
"good."
He agreed to her request.
Although he knew that Jing Ni had probably already guessed it.
But since the Snow Woman doesn't want to talk about it, he won't say anything more.
By the time the two returned to the city, it was already dark.
Jingni stood at the door waiting.
Her eyes flickered when she saw them return together.
"You're back?"
"Mm." Xia Bing nodded. "I went out for a walk."
Jingni's gaze lingered on the Snow Woman for a moment.
The snow woman's expression was somewhat unnatural.
"I'm going to check on Xia Yan," she said, and quickly went into the house.
Jingni watched her retreating figure, lost in thought.
"How did the chat go?" she asked Xia Bing in a low voice.
"It's alright." Xia Bing walked into the courtyard. "I've said everything I needed to say."
"That's good."
Jing Ni didn't ask any further questions.
She followed Xia Bing into the house.
Some things don't need to be explained too clearly.
They are all intelligent people.
……
(The night in Xinzheng City remains quiet.)
(But some people's hearts were already stirred.)
A few more days passed.
Xia Bing was practicing her sword in the courtyard, while Xue Nu watched from the side.
The Snow Woman has made rapid progress during this period.
Her swordsmanship is already quite advanced, and she is only one step away from the innate level.
"Not bad." Xia Bing sheathed her sword. "Your talent is better than I imagined."
The snow woman wiped the sweat from her forehead.
"It's still a long way off."
"Take your time, no rush." Xia Bing sheathed her sword. "The innate ability is a hurdle; you can't rush it."
The snow woman nodded.
As the two were talking, there was a knock on the door.
"I'll go open it." Jingni came out of the house.
A moment later, she led a familiar figure into the courtyard.
Purple hair and purple dress, as beautiful as ever.
It was Zi Nu.
"Miss Zi Nu?" Xia Bing was somewhat surprised. "What brings you here?"
"I was just passing by and thought I'd take a look," Zi Nu said with a smile. "Young Master Xia, aren't you welcome?"
"Welcome, welcome." Xia Bing gestured for her to sit down. "Would you like some tea?"
"Have a drink."
Zi Nu sat down on the stone bench, her gaze sweeping across the courtyard.
The snow woman stood up.
"I'm going to rest now."
"Wait," Zi Nu called out to her. "Miss Xue Nu, you don't need to leave. I'm here today to see Young Master Xia."
The snow woman stopped in her tracks.
"What is it?"
Zi Nu glanced at Xia Bing.
"Young Master Xia, there is a banquet at Zilan Pavilion tonight."
"banquet?"
"Yes." Zi Nu nodded. "Some dignitaries from South Korea will be attending, and I would like to invite Young Master Xia to participate."
Xia Bing frowned.
"Miss Zi Nu, you should know that I don't like social engagements."
"I know," Zi Nu smiled, "but this time is different."
"What's different?"
"Young Master Han Fei will also be attending this banquet," Zi Nu said. "He has a few friends who would like to meet you."
"See me?" Xia Bing raised an eyebrow. "What's so interesting about me?"
"Young Master Xia is too modest," Zi Nu said, covering her mouth with a smile. "Your reputation in Korea is quite considerable."
Xia Bing smiled helplessly.
"I don't know anything about their reputation."
"Young Master Xia himself doesn't know?" Zi Nu was somewhat surprised. "Right now, everyone in Korea is saying that you're a master."
"There are very few people in all of Korea who can defeat Ji Wuye with a single palm strike."
Xia Bing was stunned for a moment.
"The news about Ji Wuye... has spread?"
"Of course," Zi Nu nodded. "Ji Wuye is the leader of the Nightfall Sect, wielding immense power in Korea. How could news of your public victory not spread?"
Xia Bing shook her head.
He thought the matter would be handled discreetly, but it still got out.
"Young Master Xia," Zi Nu continued, "Young Master Han Fei said you are a rare talent. He wants to befriend you."
"Han Fei..." Xia Bing pondered, "The Han Fei of the Quicksand?"
"Indeed." Zi Nu nodded. "Young Master Han Fei has returned from overseas and is exceptionally talented. He greatly admires Young Master Xia."
Xia Bing thought for a moment.
"Okay, I'll go."
"Then it's settled." Zi Nu stood up. "I'll send a car to pick you up tonight."
"No need." Xia Bing waved her hand. "Tell me the location, I'll go there myself."
"Alright." Zi Nu took out an invitation from her sleeve. "Tonight at 7 PM, third floor of Zi Lan Xuan."
Xia Bing accepted the invitation.
"I see."
Zi Nu glanced at him again and suddenly smiled.