Chapter 410: Night’s Embrace, Maintaining Bonds
After Wu Jingyun quietly left, only the Valley Master remained on the rooftop of the pavilion.
With a wave of her sleeve, the faintly visible barrier reappeared, enveloping Lunar Valley, until peace and tranquility returned, not a trace of disturbance remaining.
“Did you anticipate tonight’s incident?”
Just then, a low and hoarse voice echoed from behind her.
First Elder emerged from the shadows, her expression cold as she glanced at the clear night sky.
“That spirit girl’s rebirth would naturally attract tribulation lightning.”
“Perhaps.” The Valley Master chuckled softly: “But at least everyone is safe and sound now, reunited.”
“…”
First Elder pursed her lips slightly, her head lowered, a complex expression on her face as she sighed softly.
She understood her elder sister… but also didn’t understand her.
Her sister had kept so many secrets and made plans in the dark for thousands of years, and she had been angry at first. But now, having calmed down, she was no longer as shocked.
However—
“Do you really think you can keep Lin Tianlu bound to our Lunar Valley?”
First Elder suddenly spoke, musing: “He’s not a puppet, he’ll return to Changling County with Ruoyu and the others after the New Year.”
“I understand the principle of moderation.”
The Valley Master looked back with a gentle smile, her expression still saintly and ethereal: “To bind someone against their will is foolish. It’s better to build a genuine connection, to understand and support each other, to maintain a lasting and friendly relationship.”
As she spoke, she waved her sleeve, her gaze sweeping over the valley below. Under the night sky, Lunar Valley was quiet and peaceful.
Although there had been a dazzling white light and earth-shattering thunder earlier, the terrifying power had been blocked by the Valley Master, and several elders had reinforced the formation afterward.
Because of this, the disciples in the valley hadn’t been too alarmed and had returned to their rooms to rest.
“After Tianlu and his group return to Changling, we’ll choose a few outstanding disciples and send them there to become his students. Even if they’re not as talented as Ruoyu and the others, they can still learn something. And the bond between master and disciple will naturally strengthen our connection with Tianlu.”
“You…”
First Elder’s eyes flickered: “Will Tianlu truly accept those disciples?”
The Valley Master chuckled: “To build a good relationship, one has to understand each other.
Do you know that Tianlu plans to open a private school in Changling after the New Year, to teach children martial arts and literature? Although he seems idle, he’s already thinking about his responsibilities as a husband and father, wanting to earn some money to support his family.”
First Elder was speechless.
Tianlu was actually going to open a private school?
“Of course, we can also let Tianlu meet with the disciples in the valley these next few days.”
The Valley Master chuckled: “These little girls have grown up in the valley and rarely interact with men. Seeing Tianlu will surely pique their curiosity. And Tianlu can also get used to teaching, it’s a win-win situation.”
First Elder’s gaze turned distant as she murmured: “Your actions… you’re treating him like his own mother, so thoughtful and caring. Even the elders in the valley are revolving around him.”
“Naturally, you have to seize such an opportunity.”
Under the moonlight, the Valley Master gathered her hair and looked back, a gentle yet mysterious smile on her face: “Of course, we have plenty of time, there’s no rush.
Song Xi and Song Xuan were a bit too crude and straightforward. Being rejected twice should make them reflect. Sometimes, a natural and sincere approach is more effective.”
“I can’t believe you.” First Elder sighed softly, turning away: “After a thousand years, you’re still torturing yourself with these thoughts.”
“I wouldn’t call it torture.”
The Valley Master smiled gently.
Seeing her unchanging smile, First Elder felt a sense of frustration and helplessness. She turned and walked to the edge of the pavilion, leaping and disappearing into the distance.
“…”
As silence returned, the Valley Master’s smile faded, and she looked down at the dimly lit courtyard.
Several faintly visible, beautiful crystals appeared in her palm, their light illuminating her flawless face.
“Lord of the Heavenly Sea, Yu Xuanling— even after tens of thousands of years of glory, you still met such a tragic end, truly pitiful.”
“But… also admirable, without regrets.”
The Valley Master slowly clenched her hand, a hint of a smile appearing: “Perhaps… it’s also enviable.”
…
Late at night, in the deep silence.
A shadowy figure flickered, and Wu Jingyun, dressed in black gauze, quickly appeared in the bedroom.
She softened her steps, quietly approaching the bed, and peeked inside. She saw Mao Ruoyu and Hua Shuya, one on each side, holding Yu Xuanling in their arms, sleeping peacefully, their silver and snow-white hair intertwined, like three close sisters.
And in their sleep, their faces were calm and serene, their beauty breathtaking. Even Yu Xuanling, who had been so lively and mischievous earlier, now had a peaceful and beautiful face, like a delicate porcelain doll, making one want to gently caress her smooth and soft skin.
“Just these hands are still restless.”
Wu Jingyun chuckled softly and pulled the blanket over them.
“Now that this little girl has her own body, it’s a relief for both Tianlu and Ruoyu. They won’t have to run around anxiously anymore, they can finally settle down in Changling.”
Her thoughts stirring, she quietly left the bedroom, not wanting to wake them.
But just as she reached the corridor, Wu Jingyun paused slightly, faintly smelling a subtle fragrance.
She froze for a moment, a blush appearing on her face, and murmured inwardly: “This fox is truly tireless.”
She had originally planned to return to her room and rest, but a sudden impulse made her move her feet, her figure flickering like a phantom, arriving at the door of another bedroom.
Peeking through the window, under the faint moonlight, she could vaguely see two figures sitting on the bed, seemingly Lin Tianlu and Yun Yue, embracing each other tightly.
The fox woman’s naked back, as fair and luminous as the moon, her arms wrapped around Tianlu, her slender waist and full hips forming a captivating curve.
With a soft moan, Yun Yue curled up in his arms, her head buried in his neck, her body moving slightly. Her long, moon-white hair cascaded down like a veil, like a shimmering moonlight, a beautiful and seductive scene.
Wu Jingyun stared at the scene, silent, until she faintly smelled another fragrance, intoxicating and alluring, like aged wine, yet also cool and refreshing.
Until—
The fox woman, who had been nestled in Lin Tianlu’s arms, suddenly turned her head slightly, her face flushed with passion and desire, her eyes shimmering with a playful glint, as she glanced at the woman watching secretly outside the window.
Wu Jingyun’s expression changed slightly.
After a moment of silence, she nodded slightly with a complex expression and silently turned to leave.
Yun Yue, suppressing the tingling warmth spreading through her body, bit her lip lightly, her eyes soft and seductive, a shy blush on her face, thinking: “Martial Aunt is truly always so concerned…”
“What are you thinking about, Yue’er?”
Lin Tianlu leaned closer to her ear, his warm breath making the fox woman tremble slightly, and she gave him a playful glare: “I was just thinking that you have such a good memory, Tianlu, remembering all those strange ‘techniques’ from the book, it truly… makes one lose themselves in ecstasy.”
She glanced sideways at Cheng Yishi, who was also lying in bed.
The newlywed, having fallen asleep long ago, was curled up slightly, a faint blush still lingering on her face.
Lin Tianlu chuckled awkwardly: “My memory is indeed quite good.”
But he quickly whispered in her ear with a chuckle: “However, you seem lazy and carefree, Yue’er, but you’ve also… read quite a bit in secret.”
“Hmm?”
Yun Yue raised her beautiful eyes slightly, twisting her waist gently, and smiled faintly: “In that case, how about we share our… insights tonight? Let me see how much you’ve truly… learned from those books, Tianlu~”
Lin Tianlu’s lips twitched, and he chuckled awkwardly, taking a deep breath: “Are you serious?”
“Of course.” Yun Yue wrapped her arms around his neck, her hair falling over her eyes, and said lazily and seductively: “Or do you want Sister Yun to give you some more… guidance tonight?”
As she teased him, she pressed her body against his, her lips close to his ear, and whispered:
“If you’re unconvinced, Tianlu, then show me what you’ve learned~”
…
The next morning.
The sound of whistling sword wind filled the courtyard, then subsided into a gentle breeze.
The beautiful and graceful sword dance came to an end, the sword twirling beside her before returning to its sheath on her back, a soft sigh escaping her lips.
Hua Shuya stretched her body, feeling the warm morning sun on her face, her heart filled with peace and tranquility.
To be able to practice her swordsmanship so freely and comfortably was truly satisfying, especially with her family here, the atmosphere warm and harmonious.
However—
Hua Shuya returned to the pavilion, took a sip of tea, and looked curiously at Yun Yue, who was lying on the long chair.
“Sister Yun, why are you so… listless today?”
“…Hmm?”
Yun Yue was lying languidly on her fluffy fox tails, her robe slipping from her shoulder, her ample bosom partially exposed, her aura lazy and seductive.
She stirred slightly, touched her forehead, and said with a slightly embarrassed blush: “It’s just that the sun is so strong today, it makes me a bit drowsy.”
“Indeed.” Hua Shuya nodded in agreement and chuckled: “The weather is beautiful today, it would be wonderful to take a nap.”
“If you want to rest, Shuya, you’re welcome to.”
Yun Yue’s eyes flickered, and she quickly regained her usual lazy and seductive demeanor, smiling as she stroked her fox tails.
Hua Shuya put down her teacup, her face slightly flushed—
If others saw this, it would be… embarrassing.
But Sister Yun’s tails were truly soft and fluffy, incredibly comfortable to be wrapped in.
“I’m here~~”
A cheerful voice suddenly echoed.
Hua Shuya and Yun Yue turned their heads to see a slender figure skipping towards them.
Her sleeves fluttered like a painting, her long blue and white dress swaying like clouds, revealing glimpses of her delicate legs. Dressed in a high-waisted skirt today, she looked even more youthful and vibrant, as beautiful and radiant as blooming flowers.
Yu Xuanling walked briskly towards the pavilion with a playful smile, then quickly put on a gentle and demure expression, placing the tray of food and dishes on the table: “Madam Hua, Madam Yun, please enjoy your breakfast.”
“Ah… thank you, Miss Xuanling.” Hua Shuya thanked her: “You even brought breakfast for us.”
Yun Yue sat up with some effort and chuckled: “Little girl, where did you learn to act like this?”
“Since Ling’er is Master’s servant, I naturally have to be responsible!”
Yu Xuanling puffed out her chest proudly, patting her ample bosom: “I saw how the maids in Madam Cheng’s house behaved, I’ll practice and learn how to take care of everyone properly!”
Saying this, she quickly opened the food boxes, a tempting aroma filling the air.
Hua Shuya looked at the exquisite pastries inside and couldn’t help but exclaim: “This… did you make these, Miss Xuanling?”
But Yu Xuanling’s face froze slightly, and she chuckled awkwardly, scratching her cheek: “Madam Mao prepared these in the kitchen, Ling’er just brought them over.”
“There’s no need to force yourself.”
Yun Yue leaned closer with a soft and gentle smile: “As a devoted servant, being able to serve tea and water is enough, there’s no need to learn such complicated skills.”
“Madam Yun, you’re so kind~” Yu Xuanling’s eyes lit up as she smiled sweetly.
“However—”
Yun Yue smiled and poked her cheek gently: “There’s no need to act like a servant, in my opinion, little girl, you’re more like Ruoyu’s daughter. If she had given birth earlier, her child would probably be about your age.”
“Indeed.”
Hua Shuya, taking a bite of a glutinous rice cake, nodded with a smile: “We were just talking about this last night, Sister Ruoyu and Miss Xuanling were quite embarrassed.”
Yun Yue extended her finger, wiping a crumb from Hua Shuya’s lips, and said with interest: “You and Xuanling shared a soul before, your faces do look quite similar.”
“R-Really?”
Hua Shuya and Yu Xuanling looked at each other in surprise, touching their faces.
Looking closely, there were indeed some similarities?
But after examining each other for a moment, they felt that their features were quite distinct.
“It’s just your aura and general outline.” Yun Yue smiled, pulling them down to sit beside her: “If you truly looked alike, you two would be like twins.”
Yu Xuanling’s smile was unusually subdued as she blinked her bright eyes, glancing sideways curiously: “Where is Master now? I looked for him in several bedrooms, but I couldn’t find him. I thought he was here with the two Madams.”
“Master?”
Hua Shuya’s thoughts stirred, and she said directly: “I think he went out with Martial Aunt, perhaps they have something to discuss?”
“They must be discussing something… important.”
Yun Yue leaned against the table, resting her chin on her hand, and smiled meaningfully: “I wonder if he can get along with those girls.”
…
Meanwhile, inside the solemn and scholarly hall, a faint fragrance of books lingered in the air.
Third Elder paced back and forth, her hair neatly tied up, her dress simple and elegant, her expression serious as she recited aloud.
She occasionally made hand seals, patiently explaining to the disciples below.
“This—”
Lin Tianlu, standing outside the hall, looked at the elegant and refined woman on the platform, a slightly surprised expression on his face.
After all, during their two previous encounters, this Third Elder had always been seductive and alluring, although she hadn’t touched him directly, her gaze had been captivating, and if he weren’t careful, he might have been completely charmed.
But now, from afar, she looked like a proper and gentle teacher, reciting ancient texts seriously, without a trace of her previous seductive aura, her demeanor dignified and composed.
“Are you surprised, Tianlu?”
A soft chuckle echoed beside his ear.
Lin Tianlu turned his head slightly, chuckling awkwardly: “Indeed, quite surprised. I thought Third Elder, she usually…”
“She and Fourth Elder are the ‘teachers’ of the valley, responsible for teaching basic techniques and explaining the classics.”
Wu Jingyun, dressed in a dignified robe, her hand gently resting on his arm, smiled faintly: “Although they were a bit… forward the other day, they are usually quite sensible and adaptable.
They were just trying to get closer to you, Tianlu, it’s understandable. And now that there are no… conflicts of interest, there’s no need for them to act seductively, they can just focus on teaching the disciples.”
“I see…”
“Their attempts at seduction weren’t malicious, but not entirely sincere either. Remember to be discerning, Tianlu, don’t be fooled by those two sisters.”
“I understand.”
Seeing Lin Tianlu’s serious expression, Wu Jingyun chuckled softly, covering her mouth with her sleeve: “Of course, there’s no need to think too badly of them.
After all, you’re the only son-in-law of Lunar Valley, favored by both the Valley Master and First Elder, that’s why they acted that way. And if you truly tried to take advantage of them, those two sisters would probably turn on you and give you a good scolding.”
Lin Tianlu’s expression turned slightly subtle.
So it was a… honey trap?
Although he was a bit speechless, looking at the dozen or so young disciples sitting in the hall, he still asked hesitantly: “Martial Aunt, do I really have to… meet these disciples?”
This was the “suggestion” that had been made earlier.
It was hard to refuse the elders’ kindness, so he could only try.
“The commotion last night was quite significant, even though we tried to minimize the impact, many disciples are suspicious. Sooner or later, they’ll find out. And you’ve already met a disciple last night, you should know what to expect.”
Wu Jingyun smiled gently: “Since you’re our son-in-law, there’s no need to hide it anymore, just be yourself with the disciples, I’m sure they’ll accept you with your abilities, Tianlu.”
“There’s no need to be nervous, husband, they’re just little girls.” Cheng Yishi, who had been quietly standing beside him, suddenly spoke, gently straightening his clothes with a smile: “If any of them are too… enthusiastic, I’ll deal with them.”
“…”
Lin Tianlu suddenly felt a chill.
Was his wife… jealous?
Wu Jingyun suppressed a smile and patted his back gently: “Go on, Third Elder has already prepared an explanation.”
“…Alright.”
Lin Tianlu took a deep breath and entered the hall.
At the same time, the young girls sitting inside, hearing Third Elder’s words, were curious about this so-called “surprise” and looked towards the entrance.
“…”
Instantly, their eyes met.
Lin Tianlu tried to put on a warm and gentle smile, bowing politely: “My name is Lin Tianlu, greetings to all—”
“Aaaaaaaaah!”
A series of high-pitched screams suddenly erupted, like an invisible shockwave, making Lin Tianlu’s smile freeze as he instinctively leaned back slightly.
These girls were truly… loud!
