Chapter 548
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Chapter 548
Goodness, Lady Luo-Luo! Are ye all right?
Assailed by the glaring sunlight and irritated by the noise, Luo-Luo squeezed her eyes shut and offered a wordless groan of displeasure. Why was her bed so uncomfortable, with her head pressed against a hard surface and back angled in an awkward position? Also, her blanket was doing a woefully inadequate job of keeping her warm, with the cold winter air streaming into the room and brushing over her bare, uncovered legs. Waving Anrhi (or perhaps Sorya, for they both looked and sounded alike) away, she rolled over to find a more comfortable position and go back to sleep, but her bed disappeared from under her and she came to with a start. Mother in Heaven, she exclaimed, her heart beating furiously within her chest even though shed barely shifted in place. Where... what...??
The world slowly came into focus as her mind made sense of the chaos and her memories returned in full. She wasnt lying nestled in bed and covered in blankets, but seated on the floor by the doorway where shed fallen asleep last, covered only in a winter cloak meant only to keep her warm for a few brief seconds. Why? Because last night, shed made up her mind to barge into Lord Husbands room and demand he finally consummate their marriage despite his protests of waiting until after his marriage to Sister Mila, but Man proposes, and Heaven disposes. Unlike most nights where he idled the late hours away reading in his room, he spent the better part of the evening chatting with his parents in the living room across the courtyard, where all three of them had a direct line of sight to Luo-Luos bedroom door. Unable to sneak into his room without being spotted, she settled down to wait them out, but evidently fell asleep before their conversation came to an end.
The things one does for marriage...
Im fine, Luo-Luo replied, waving aside her concerned handmaiden while trying to come up with an explanation for why she was sleeping by the doorway. Sorya and Anrhi were good people and hard workers, but they did so love to gossip. If Luo-Luo didnt give them a proper reason for her current dilemma, then half the citadel would know about her strange sleeping habits by sundown. I... my back was sore, so I tried laying on the ground.
...And ended up leaning against the door frame? Anrhis tone (yes, it was most certainly Anrhi, for Sorya preferred white ribbons for her hair, rather than red) belied her disbelief, but the sweet girl didnt let it get in the way of her work, already wrapping a warm quilt around Luo-Luos shivering frame. Only then did she realize how cold she was, and she clutched her sweet handmaiden close to steal her warmth. Oh, you silly girl, you shouldve at least brought your blanket and pillow. Martial Warrior or not, youll freeze to death if you try this back home in the north. Hugging Luo-Luo tight, Anrhi launched into yet another bleak tale of the Norths harsh clime, smiling as if she were proud of how the weather abused her so. Luo-Luo was not looking forward to seeing Lord Husbands childhood home, which according to the twin handmaidens was as far north as one could get without leaving the Empire, a remote, secluded village hidden deep within the mountains. Even Tali and Tates tales were fraught with danger and uncertainty, though their youthful, innocent eyes didnt see it that way. To them, giant birds of prey circling overhead or stumbling across dangerous predators whilst on a trek through the dark forest wasnt even worth calling an adventure, but merely a part of everyday life.
A life, which to Luo-Luo, sounded like her nightmares made true. The world outside her Academy room was so vast and terrifying. What she wouldnt give to be back in there again, safe from all the Demons, Defiled, assassins, and worse lurking in the shadows...
Between her inner grumbling over her failed ploy and fending off Anrhis well-intentioned suggestions for more comfortable sleep, Luo-Luos morning routine felt like it dragged on forever, but she eventually made it through unscathed and set out to join Lord Husband for a late breakfast. Granted, it was only late in comparison to the rest of the household, as Luo-Luo hardly considered nine in the morning late, but the Bekhai were an industrious bunch who started each day at an ungodly hour, long before the sun rose to greet them. Even Lord Husband was falling back into the habit now that his health had improved, so it came as a surprise to find the dining room empty and devoid of his presence. The animals were also nowhere to be found, so Luo-Luo was torn between playing the part of dutiful courtesan and standing by the door to await her Lord Husbands presence or taking a seat at the table to rest her weary head.
He was probably still in bed right now, no doubt exhausted from his late night conversation with his parents and the subsequent visit from Yan soon after...
Go on and take a seat, Lady Luo-Luo, Anrhi said, pulling out a chair for her to sit in. Ill go see how Sorya is farin with yer breakfast.This chapter is updated by nov(e)(l)biin.com
Sorya? Usually brother-in-law Charok cooked breakfast, or sister-in-law Alsantset.
Yes Lady Luo-Luo. Seeing her confusion, Anrhi lowered her head and explained in a whisper, Master Rain woke up early and left to go make breakfast for Lady Mila, so...
So they all forgot about Luo-Luo and left her to fend for herself. Ah, I see. Doing her best to hold back her tears, she took the offered seat with grace and aplomb, which was ruined when Anrhi leaned over to hug her.
Its alright Lady Luo-Luo, she whispered, squeezing her tight for encouragement. Hell come around soon enough. Youll see.
Doubtful. Almost an entire year had passed since they first met, the anniversary of which was coming up on the first day of spring, and still he had yet to accept her into his life, much less his marital bed. Lin-Lins advice to let nature take its course had failed to bear fruit, and now here Luo-Luo sat, alone in the dining room waiting for breakfast because no one besides her handmaidens remembered her existence. How pitiful...
Sorya arrived soon after with a piping hot breakfast and while Luo-Luo appreciated the effort that went into the meal, she ate mechanically without tasting it. The day had only just begun and it was already ruined beyond all measure, because while she might have some answer for hostile sister-wives, tyrannical in-laws, covetous in-laws, and what have you, she hadnt the faintest clue how to combat Lord Husbands baffling principles and cold indifference. He said he wanted to get to know her true self, but he never took the time to bother learning, so what choice was left to her? Grow old and die alone, she supposed, though at least shed have Sorya and Anrhi to keep her company.
So disheartened by her morning, Luo-Luo considered sending her handmaidens away so she could mope in her room, but then Sorya reminded her of their plans for the day. Its almost time to meet up with the others to go visit the farm, but do ye think I should pack us somethin to nibble on fer lunch?
Right. The farm. Theyd made plans to visit the Medical Saint today, a curious but pleasant man who didnt seem entirely... there. No need, Luo-Luo replied, hurriedly finishing the rest of her breakfast for fear of being forgotten a second time today. Lord Husband mentioned something about cooking lunch for his Teacher. Though knowing him, he was liable to forget to bring enough for Luo-Luo and her handmaidens, so it would probably be best to prepare something. No, if he forgets, then so be it. Luo-Luo would go hungry and refuse all offers to share so he could stew in guilt and remorse. It worked well enough for Sister Mila, shaming Lord Husband into running off to make it up to her, so perhaps it would work for Luo-Luo as well.
The poor girl. To think, Lord Husband could be so insensitive as to forget the date for their marriage after only a single day...
...Oh. Yea, that makes more sense. Lord Husband took the explanation in stride, but Luo-Luos breath caught in her throat as she remembered Lin-Lin asking her to find a mature bamboo grove for sale some weeks ago. It was a strange request because most people bought their lumber after it was cut and treated, but the half-hare had insisted on finding a grove which had yet to be harvested, and now Luo-Luo understood why. What she didnt understand was how the bamboo survived the month-long journey to the citadel without dying in transit, but perhaps the plants were hardier than expected.
Instead of focusing on the irrelevant details, she asked, Medical Saint, might this one ask: who arranged the bamboo stalks? There was something about the path which this one found particularly soothing, so this one would like to know more. So she might possibly replicate it once Lord Husband finally settled down somewhere permanent.
The path? I made it, the Medical Saint replied, and before Luo-Luo could gather her courage to ask for more details, he tilted his head and added, But I dont understand what you mean about a soothing arrangement. I just planted the stalks wherever they fit without really thinking. It is rather pleasant though, now that you mention it. Calm and serene, yes?
Lin-Lin, Mila, Yan, and Li-Li all nodded in agreement, but Lord Husband evidently didnt notice anything special about the bamboo path and simply waved the topic aside. Yea, lovely nature and all that. Very nice. Gesturing around the loose dirt clearing, he asked, So your gardens looking a little bare, Teacher. I know you said nothing was growing, but didnt you say you were also trying to grow plants normally too? What happened to them?
A handsome man with honeyed skin and a cheery smile, the Medical Saint transformed before Luo-Luos eyes as he scowled at the dirt around him. I havent the faintest clue, he declared, almost proudly without a care for face. Not only is nothing growing, even the seeds are disappearing now. Its not birds, he continued, rushing to speak before Lord Husband could make some pithy comment or the other. I had nets installed overhead and guards stationed here day and night, but theyve seen and heard nothing. I plant the seeds in the dirt, and theyre gone the next day, vanishing into thin air. Plopping down in the dirt with an audible harrumph, the Medical Saint grabbed a fistful of dirt and tossed it aside, grumbling, Its madness is what it is, sheer madness. How can seeds just disappear? Its not like they can sprout wings and fly away...
Stepping aside to avoid the dirt, Lord Husband wore a scandalized expression while offering his teacher a clean handkerchief. Err Teacher, considering what youve been mixing into the dirt, I really dont think you should be throwing it around, much less with your bare hands.
Bah. Dismissing Lord Husbands concerns with a wave of his hand, the Medical Saint snorted and said, Its just poop. Hardly anything to be concerned about.
Yea but
But nothing. Poop is fertilizer, fertilizer is dirt, so whats all the big fuss? Grabbing another fistful of dirt, he tossed it into the air, and this time, Lord Husband wasnt the only one to dart aside. Luo-Luo joined her sister wives in avoiding the fecal bombardment, after which poor Lin-Lin put on an aggrieved expression and set to brushing the dirt off her coat using her handkerchief. Utterly oblivious to his precious daughters grievance, the Medical Saint continued, Whats important is finding the damnable creature eating my seeds. Its a Spiritual Beast no doubt, a small, crafty one, else theres no way it could escape notice. I want you to trap it boy, then I want you to kill it and cook it. I dont care what manner of creature it might be, I intend to eat and enjoy it for all the suffering its put me through.
Doing his best not to smile, Lord Husband nodded along with the Medical Saints increasingly absurd requests while offering a few suggestions of his own. Seeing Yan back away towards the sequestered path, Luo-Luo quietly followed suit, while Mila pulled Li-Li away to do the same. Once there, Luo-Luo followed the path back out while enjoying the peaceful serenity of the bamboo grove which even blocked out Lord Husbands conversation with the Medical Saint.
It was so similar to how she felt while playing Rise to Glory, as if she were the only person in the world with the music to accompany her, except instead of notes and melodies, it was wind and wood. She couldnt quite explain it, but she felt lessened by the loss as she stepped back out the other side, and she could see the others felt the same way. This one is not mistaken, right? she asked, not entirely certain how to explain it. There is something... something marvellous about the path, is there not?
It felt like finding Balance in the physical world, Song murmured, and Luo-Luo instantly agreed, marvelling at her own stupidity for not seeing it sooner.
It is a place of Enlightenment, Mila answered, gazing wistfully back at the path. One which brings nothingness to mind.
When it became clear Mila had nothing more to add, Yan picked up the slack. Grandpa Du had a garden like that, back in Yantai, paid a fortune for a Diviner to come in and arrange it. See, most Martial Warriors can find Balance anywhere, but some believe it is best to do so in an optimal location, where the natural four elements are in Balance as well. Shrugging, she added, I didnt feel any different in Grandpas garden, but that grove...
Was something the Medical Saint simply threw together. Truly a man standing at the peak of his craft, so utterly in tune with nature that he could accidentally create such a marvel.
Trading a quick glance, they all wordlessly came to an agreement and headed back into the grove. Mila stopped first, then Li-Li a little distance away, then once both were out of sight, Yan took Luo-Luos hand in her own. Stay here and meditate, she Sent, offering a small smile of encouragement. Focus on nothing but awareness itself. Seek nothing, and perhaps you might find your Path, but if not, meditation can only be beneficial.
Already lost in the splendour around her, Luo-Luo nodded until she noticed Yan had long since left. It was magical here even without meditation, as if nature itself was trying to whisper in her ear, but Luo-Luo couldnt quite understand the message. Putting the world out of mind, she gathered her skirts, sat down in the dirt, and sought the warm embrace of the Mother. Balance came easily, easier than ever before, and she felt the rush of Heavenly Energy washing all her worries away. Where before it was always a trickle, Chi now streamed into her Core and filled an emptiness inside her she never knew existed. It was like hearing a prominent musician play for the first time, or a master artist revealing their work, a sublime experience which transcended words and sensations.
It was Heavenly, a description which said everything, and nothing at all.
Chapter Meme
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Chapter 548
Goodness, Lady Luo-Luo! Are ye all right?
Assailed by the glaring sunlight and irritated by the noise, Luo-Luo squeezed her eyes shut and offered a wordless groan of displeasure. Why was her bed so uncomfortable, with her head pressed against a hard surface and back angled in an awkward position? Also, her blanket was doing a woefully inadequate job of keeping her warm, with the cold winter air streaming into the room and brushing over her bare, uncovered legs. Waving Anrhi (or perhaps Sorya, for they both looked and sounded alike) away, she rolled over to find a more comfortable position and go back to sleep, but her bed disappeared from under her and she came to with a start. Mother in Heaven, she exclaimed, her heart beating furiously within her chest even though shed barely shifted in place. Where... what...??
The world slowly came into focus as her mind made sense of the chaos and her memories returned in full. She wasnt lying nestled in bed and covered in blankets, but seated on the floor by the doorway where shed fallen asleep last, covered only in a winter cloak meant only to keep her warm for a few brief seconds. Why? Because last night, shed made up her mind to barge into Lord Husbands room and demand he finally consummate their marriage despite his protests of waiting until after his marriage to Sister Mila, but Man proposes, and Heaven disposes. Unlike most nights where he idled the late hours away reading in his room, he spent the better part of the evening chatting with his parents in the living room across the courtyard, where all three of them had a direct line of sight to Luo-Luos bedroom door. Unable to sneak into his room without being spotted, she settled down to wait them out, but evidently fell asleep before their conversation came to an end.
The things one does for marriage...
Im fine, Luo-Luo replied, waving aside her concerned handmaiden while trying to come up with an explanation for why she was sleeping by the doorway. Sorya and Anrhi were good people and hard workers, but they did so love to gossip. If Luo-Luo didnt give them a proper reason for her current dilemma, then half the citadel would know about her strange sleeping habits by sundown. I... my back was sore, so I tried laying on the ground.
...And ended up leaning against the door frame? Anrhis tone (yes, it was most certainly Anrhi, for Sorya preferred white ribbons for her hair, rather than red) belied her disbelief, but the sweet girl didnt let it get in the way of her work, already wrapping a warm quilt around Luo-Luos shivering frame. Only then did she realize how cold she was, and she clutched her sweet handmaiden close to steal her warmth. Oh, you silly girl, you shouldve at least brought your blanket and pillow. Martial Warrior or not, youll freeze to death if you try this back home in the north. Hugging Luo-Luo tight, Anrhi launched into yet another bleak tale of the Norths harsh clime, smiling as if she were proud of how the weather abused her so. Luo-Luo was not looking forward to seeing Lord Husbands childhood home, which according to the twin handmaidens was as far north as one could get without leaving the Empire, a remote, secluded village hidden deep within the mountains. Even Tali and Tates tales were fraught with danger and uncertainty, though their youthful, innocent eyes didnt see it that way. To them, giant birds of prey circling overhead or stumbling across dangerous predators whilst on a trek through the dark forest wasnt even worth calling an adventure, but merely a part of everyday life.
A life, which to Luo-Luo, sounded like her nightmares made true. The world outside her Academy room was so vast and terrifying. What she wouldnt give to be back in there again, safe from all the Demons, Defiled, assassins, and worse lurking in the shadows...
Between her inner grumbling over her failed ploy and fending off Anrhis well-intentioned suggestions for more comfortable sleep, Luo-Luos morning routine felt like it dragged on forever, but she eventually made it through unscathed and set out to join Lord Husband for a late breakfast. Granted, it was only late in comparison to the rest of the household, as Luo-Luo hardly considered nine in the morning late, but the Bekhai were an industrious bunch who started each day at an ungodly hour, long before the sun rose to greet them. Even Lord Husband was falling back into the habit now that his health had improved, so it came as a surprise to find the dining room empty and devoid of his presence. The animals were also nowhere to be found, so Luo-Luo was torn between playing the part of dutiful courtesan and standing by the door to await her Lord Husbands presence or taking a seat at the table to rest her weary head.
He was probably still in bed right now, no doubt exhausted from his late night conversation with his parents and the subsequent visit from Yan soon after...
Go on and take a seat, Lady Luo-Luo, Anrhi said, pulling out a chair for her to sit in. Ill go see how Sorya is farin with yer breakfast.This chapter is updated by nov(e)(l)biin.com
Sorya? Usually brother-in-law Charok cooked breakfast, or sister-in-law Alsantset.
Yes Lady Luo-Luo. Seeing her confusion, Anrhi lowered her head and explained in a whisper, Master Rain woke up early and left to go make breakfast for Lady Mila, so...
So they all forgot about Luo-Luo and left her to fend for herself. Ah, I see. Doing her best to hold back her tears, she took the offered seat with grace and aplomb, which was ruined when Anrhi leaned over to hug her.
Its alright Lady Luo-Luo, she whispered, squeezing her tight for encouragement. Hell come around soon enough. Youll see.
Doubtful. Almost an entire year had passed since they first met, the anniversary of which was coming up on the first day of spring, and still he had yet to accept her into his life, much less his marital bed. Lin-Lins advice to let nature take its course had failed to bear fruit, and now here Luo-Luo sat, alone in the dining room waiting for breakfast because no one besides her handmaidens remembered her existence. How pitiful...
Sorya arrived soon after with a piping hot breakfast and while Luo-Luo appreciated the effort that went into the meal, she ate mechanically without tasting it. The day had only just begun and it was already ruined beyond all measure, because while she might have some answer for hostile sister-wives, tyrannical in-laws, covetous in-laws, and what have you, she hadnt the faintest clue how to combat Lord Husbands baffling principles and cold indifference. He said he wanted to get to know her true self, but he never took the time to bother learning, so what choice was left to her? Grow old and die alone, she supposed, though at least shed have Sorya and Anrhi to keep her company.
So disheartened by her morning, Luo-Luo considered sending her handmaidens away so she could mope in her room, but then Sorya reminded her of their plans for the day. Its almost time to meet up with the others to go visit the farm, but do ye think I should pack us somethin to nibble on fer lunch?
Right. The farm. Theyd made plans to visit the Medical Saint today, a curious but pleasant man who didnt seem entirely... there. No need, Luo-Luo replied, hurriedly finishing the rest of her breakfast for fear of being forgotten a second time today. Lord Husband mentioned something about cooking lunch for his Teacher. Though knowing him, he was liable to forget to bring enough for Luo-Luo and her handmaidens, so it would probably be best to prepare something. No, if he forgets, then so be it. Luo-Luo would go hungry and refuse all offers to share so he could stew in guilt and remorse. It worked well enough for Sister Mila, shaming Lord Husband into running off to make it up to her, so perhaps it would work for Luo-Luo as well.
The poor girl. To think, Lord Husband could be so insensitive as to forget the date for their marriage after only a single day...
...Oh. Yea, that makes more sense. Lord Husband took the explanation in stride, but Luo-Luos breath caught in her throat as she remembered Lin-Lin asking her to find a mature bamboo grove for sale some weeks ago. It was a strange request because most people bought their lumber after it was cut and treated, but the half-hare had insisted on finding a grove which had yet to be harvested, and now Luo-Luo understood why. What she didnt understand was how the bamboo survived the month-long journey to the citadel without dying in transit, but perhaps the plants were hardier than expected.
Instead of focusing on the irrelevant details, she asked, Medical Saint, might this one ask: who arranged the bamboo stalks? There was something about the path which this one found particularly soothing, so this one would like to know more. So she might possibly replicate it once Lord Husband finally settled down somewhere permanent.
The path? I made it, the Medical Saint replied, and before Luo-Luo could gather her courage to ask for more details, he tilted his head and added, But I dont understand what you mean about a soothing arrangement. I just planted the stalks wherever they fit without really thinking. It is rather pleasant though, now that you mention it. Calm and serene, yes?
Lin-Lin, Mila, Yan, and Li-Li all nodded in agreement, but Lord Husband evidently didnt notice anything special about the bamboo path and simply waved the topic aside. Yea, lovely nature and all that. Very nice. Gesturing around the loose dirt clearing, he asked, So your gardens looking a little bare, Teacher. I know you said nothing was growing, but didnt you say you were also trying to grow plants normally too? What happened to them?
A handsome man with honeyed skin and a cheery smile, the Medical Saint transformed before Luo-Luos eyes as he scowled at the dirt around him. I havent the faintest clue, he declared, almost proudly without a care for face. Not only is nothing growing, even the seeds are disappearing now. Its not birds, he continued, rushing to speak before Lord Husband could make some pithy comment or the other. I had nets installed overhead and guards stationed here day and night, but theyve seen and heard nothing. I plant the seeds in the dirt, and theyre gone the next day, vanishing into thin air. Plopping down in the dirt with an audible harrumph, the Medical Saint grabbed a fistful of dirt and tossed it aside, grumbling, Its madness is what it is, sheer madness. How can seeds just disappear? Its not like they can sprout wings and fly away...
Stepping aside to avoid the dirt, Lord Husband wore a scandalized expression while offering his teacher a clean handkerchief. Err Teacher, considering what youve been mixing into the dirt, I really dont think you should be throwing it around, much less with your bare hands.
Bah. Dismissing Lord Husbands concerns with a wave of his hand, the Medical Saint snorted and said, Its just poop. Hardly anything to be concerned about.
Yea but
But nothing. Poop is fertilizer, fertilizer is dirt, so whats all the big fuss? Grabbing another fistful of dirt, he tossed it into the air, and this time, Lord Husband wasnt the only one to dart aside. Luo-Luo joined her sister wives in avoiding the fecal bombardment, after which poor Lin-Lin put on an aggrieved expression and set to brushing the dirt off her coat using her handkerchief. Utterly oblivious to his precious daughters grievance, the Medical Saint continued, Whats important is finding the damnable creature eating my seeds. Its a Spiritual Beast no doubt, a small, crafty one, else theres no way it could escape notice. I want you to trap it boy, then I want you to kill it and cook it. I dont care what manner of creature it might be, I intend to eat and enjoy it for all the suffering its put me through.
Doing his best not to smile, Lord Husband nodded along with the Medical Saints increasingly absurd requests while offering a few suggestions of his own. Seeing Yan back away towards the sequestered path, Luo-Luo quietly followed suit, while Mila pulled Li-Li away to do the same. Once there, Luo-Luo followed the path back out while enjoying the peaceful serenity of the bamboo grove which even blocked out Lord Husbands conversation with the Medical Saint.
It was so similar to how she felt while playing Rise to Glory, as if she were the only person in the world with the music to accompany her, except instead of notes and melodies, it was wind and wood. She couldnt quite explain it, but she felt lessened by the loss as she stepped back out the other side, and she could see the others felt the same way. This one is not mistaken, right? she asked, not entirely certain how to explain it. There is something... something marvellous about the path, is there not?
It felt like finding Balance in the physical world, Song murmured, and Luo-Luo instantly agreed, marvelling at her own stupidity for not seeing it sooner.
It is a place of Enlightenment, Mila answered, gazing wistfully back at the path. One which brings nothingness to mind.
When it became clear Mila had nothing more to add, Yan picked up the slack. Grandpa Du had a garden like that, back in Yantai, paid a fortune for a Diviner to come in and arrange it. See, most Martial Warriors can find Balance anywhere, but some believe it is best to do so in an optimal location, where the natural four elements are in Balance as well. Shrugging, she added, I didnt feel any different in Grandpas garden, but that grove...
Was something the Medical Saint simply threw together. Truly a man standing at the peak of his craft, so utterly in tune with nature that he could accidentally create such a marvel.
Trading a quick glance, they all wordlessly came to an agreement and headed back into the grove. Mila stopped first, then Li-Li a little distance away, then once both were out of sight, Yan took Luo-Luos hand in her own. Stay here and meditate, she Sent, offering a small smile of encouragement. Focus on nothing but awareness itself. Seek nothing, and perhaps you might find your Path, but if not, meditation can only be beneficial.
Already lost in the splendour around her, Luo-Luo nodded until she noticed Yan had long since left. It was magical here even without meditation, as if nature itself was trying to whisper in her ear, but Luo-Luo couldnt quite understand the message. Putting the world out of mind, she gathered her skirts, sat down in the dirt, and sought the warm embrace of the Mother. Balance came easily, easier than ever before, and she felt the rush of Heavenly Energy washing all her worries away. Where before it was always a trickle, Chi now streamed into her Core and filled an emptiness inside her she never knew existed. It was like hearing a prominent musician play for the first time, or a master artist revealing their work, a sublime experience which transcended words and sensations.
It was Heavenly, a description which said everything, and nothing at all.
Chapter Meme
Chapter 548Goodness, Lady Luo-Luo! Are ye all right?Assailed by the glaring sunlight and irritated by the noise, Luo-Luo squeezed her eyes shut and offered a wordless groan of displeasure. Why was her bed so uncomfortable, with her head pressed against a hard surface and back angled in an awkward position? Also, her blanket was doing a woefully inadequate job of keeping her warm, with the cold winter air streaming into the room and brushing over her bare, uncovered legs. Waving Anrhi or perhaps Sorya, for they both looked and sounded alike away, she rolled over to find a more comfortable position and go back to sleep, but her bed disappeared from under her and she came to with a start. Mother in Heaven, she exclaimed, her heart beating furiously within her chest even though shed barely shifted in place. Where... what...??The world slowly came into focus as her mind made sense of the chaos and her memories returned in full. She wasnt lying nestled in bed and covered in blankets, but seated on the floor by the doorway where shed fallen asleep last, covered only in a winter cloak meant only to keep her warm for a few brief seconds. Why? Because last night, shed made up her mind to barge into Lord Husbands room and demand he finally consummate their marriage despite his protests of waiting until after his marriage to Sister Mila, but Man proposes, and Heaven disposes. Unlike most nights where he idled the late hours away reading in his room, he spent the better part of the evening chatting with his parents in the living room across the courtyard, where all three of them had a direct line of sight to Luo-Luos bedroom door. Unable to sneak into his room without being spotted, she settled down to wait them out, but evidently fell asleep before their conversation came to an end.The things one does for marriage...Im fine, Luo-Luo replied, waving aside her concerned handmaiden while trying to come up with an explanation for why she was sleeping by the doorway. Sorya and Anrhi were good people and hard workers, but they did so love to gossip. If Luo-Luo didnt give them a proper reason for her current dilemma, then half the citadel would know about her strange sleeping habits by sundown. I... my back was sore, so I tried laying on the ground....And ended up leaning against the door frame? Anrhis tone yes, it was most certainly Anrhi, for Sorya preferred white ribbons for her hair, rather than red belied her disbelief, but the sweet girl didnt let it get in the way of her work, already wrapping a warm quilt around Luo-Luos shivering frame. Only then did she realize how cold she was, and she clutched her sweet handmaiden close to steal her warmth. Oh, you silly girl, you shouldve at least brought your blanket and pillow. Martial Warrior or not, youll freeze to death if you try this back home in the north. Hugging Luo-Luo tight, Anrhi launched into yet another bleak tale of the Norths harsh clime, smiling as if she were proud of how the weather abused her so. Luo-Luo was not looking forward to seeing Lord Husbands childhood home, which according to the twin handmaidens was as far north as one could get without leaving the Empire, a remote, secluded village hidden deep within the mountains. Even Tali and Tates tales were fraught with danger and uncertainty, though their youthful, innocent eyes didnt see it that way. To them, giant birds of prey circling overhead or stumbling across dangerous predators whilst on a trek through the dark forest wasnt even worth calling an adventure, but merely a part of everyday life.A life, which to Luo-Luo, sounded like her nightmares made true. The world outside her Academy room was so vast and terrifying. What she wouldnt give to be back in there again, safe from all the Demons, Defiled, assassins, and worse lurking in the shadows...Between her inner grumbling over her failed ploy and fending off Anrhis well-intentioned suggestions for more comfortable sleep, Luo-Luos morning routine felt like it dragged on forever, but she eventually made it through unscathed and set out to join Lord Husband for a late breakfast. Granted, it was only late in comparison to the rest of the household, as Luo-Luo hardly considered nine in the morning late, but the Bekhai were an industrious bunch who started each day at an ungodly hour, long before the sun rose to greet them. Even Lord Husband was falling back into the habit now that his health had improved, so it came as a surprise to find the dining room empty and devoid of his presence. The animals were also nowhere to be found, so Luo-Luo was torn between playing the part of dutiful courtesan and standing by the door to await her Lord Husbands presence or taking a seat at the table to rest her weary head.He was probably still in bed right now, no doubt exhausted from his late night conversation with his parents and the subsequent visit from Yan soon after...Go on and take a seat, Lady Luo-Luo, Anrhi said, pulling out a chair for her to sit in. Ill go see how Sorya is farin with yer breakfast.This chapter is updated by novelbiin.comSorya? Usually brother-in-law Charok cooked breakfast, or sister-in-law Alsantset.Yes Lady Luo-Luo. Seeing her confusion, Anrhi lowered her head and explained in a whisper, Master Rain woke up early and left to go make breakfast for Lady Mila, so...So they all forgot about Luo-Luo and left her to fend for herself. Ah, I see. Doing her best to hold back her tears, she took the offered seat with grace and aplomb, which was ruined when Anrhi leaned over to hug her.Its alright Lady Luo-Luo, she whispered, squeezing her tight for encouragement. Hell come around soon enough. Youll see.Doubtful. Almost an entire year had passed since they first met, the anniversary of which was coming up on the first day of spring, and still he had yet to accept her into his life, much less his marital bed. Lin-Lins advice to let nature take its course had failed to bear fruit, and now here Luo-Luo sat, alone in the dining room waiting for breakfast because no one besides her handmaidens remembered her existence. How pitiful...Sorya arrived soon after with a piping hot breakfast and while Luo-Luo appreciated the effort that went into the meal, she ate mechanically without tasting it. The day had only just begun and it was already ruined beyond all measure, because while she might have some answer for hostile sister-wives, tyrannical in-laws, covetous in-laws, and what have you, she hadnt the faintest clue how to combat Lord Husbands baffling principles and cold indifference. He said he wanted to get to know her true self, but he never took the time to bother learning, so what choice was left to her? Grow old and die alone, she supposed, though at least shed have Sorya and Anrhi to keep her company.So disheartened by her morning, Luo-Luo considered sending her handmaidens away so she could mope in her room, but then Sorya reminded her of their plans for the day. Its almost time to meet up with the others to go visit the farm, but do ye think I should pack us somethin to nibble on fer lunch?Right. The farm. Theyd made plans to visit the Medical Saint today, a curious but pleasant man who didnt seem entirely... there. No need, Luo-Luo replied, hurriedly finishing the rest of her breakfast for fear of being forgotten a second time today. Lord Husband mentioned something about cooking lunch for his Teacher. Though knowing him, he was liable to forget to bring enough for Luo-Luo and her handmaidens, so it would probably be best to prepare something. No, if he forgets, then so be it. Luo-Luo would go hungry and refuse all offers to share so he could stew in guilt and remorse. It worked well enough for Sister Mila, shaming Lord Husband into running off to make it up to her, so perhaps it would work for Luo-Luo as well.The poor girl. To think, Lord Husband could be so insensitive as to forget the date for their marriage after only a single day......Oh. Yea, that makes more sense. Lord Husband took the explanation in stride, but Luo-Luos breath caught in her throat as she remembered Lin-Lin asking her to find a mature bamboo grove for sale some weeks ago. It was a strange request because most people bought their lumber after it was cut and treated, but the half-hare had insisted on finding a grove which had yet to be harvested, and now Luo-Luo understood why. What she didnt understand was how the bamboo survived the month-long journey to the citadel without dying in transit, but perhaps the plants were hardier than expected.Instead of focusing on the irrelevant details, she asked, Medical Saint, might this one ask: who arranged the bamboo stalks? There was something about the path which this one found particularly soothing, so this one would like to know more. So she might possibly replicate it once Lord Husband finally settled down somewhere permanent.The path? I made it, the Medical Saint replied, and before Luo-Luo could gather her courage to ask for more details, he tilted his head and added, But I dont understand what you mean about a soothing arrangement. I just planted the stalks wherever they fit without really thinking. It is rather pleasant though, now that you mention it. Calm and serene, yes?Lin-Lin, Mila, Yan, and Li-Li all nodded in agreement, but Lord Husband evidently didnt notice anything special about the bamboo path and simply waved the topic aside. Yea, lovely nature and all that. Very nice. Gesturing around the loose dirt clearing, he asked, So your gardens looking a little bare, Teacher. I know you said nothing was growing, but didnt you say you were also trying to grow plants normally too? What happened to them?A handsome man with honeyed skin and a cheery smile, the Medical Saint transformed before Luo-Luos eyes as he scowled at the dirt around him. I havent the faintest clue, he declared, almost proudly without a care for face. Not only is nothing growing, even the seeds are disappearing now. Its not birds, he continued, rushing to speak before Lord Husband could make some pithy comment or the other. I had nets installed overhead and guards stationed here day and night, but theyve seen and heard nothing. I plant the seeds in the dirt, and theyre gone the next day, vanishing into thin air. Plopping down in the dirt with an audible harrumph, the Medical Saint grabbed a fistful of dirt and tossed it aside, grumbling, Its madness is what it is, sheer madness. How can seeds just disappear? Its not like they can sprout wings and fly away...Stepping aside to avoid the dirt, Lord Husband wore a scandalized expression while offering his teacher a clean handkerchief. Err Teacher, considering what youve been mixing into the dirt, I really dont think you should be throwing it around, much less with your bare hands.Bah. Dismissing Lord Husbands concerns with a wave of his hand, the Medical Saint snorted and said, Its just poop. Hardly anything to be concerned about.Yea but But nothing. Poop is fertilizer, fertilizer is dirt, so whats all the big fuss? Grabbing another fistful of dirt, he tossed it into the air, and this time, Lord Husband wasnt the only one to dart aside. Luo-Luo joined her sister wives in avoiding the fecal bombardment, after which poor Lin-Lin put on an aggrieved expression and set to brushing the dirt off her coat using her handkerchief. Utterly oblivious to his precious daughters grievance, the Medical Saint continued, Whats important is finding the damnable creature eating my seeds. Its a Spiritual Beast no doubt, a small, crafty one, else theres no way it could escape notice. I want you to trap it boy, then I want you to kill it and cook it. I dont care what manner of creature it might be, I intend to eat and enjoy it for all the suffering its put me through.Doing his best not to smile, Lord Husband nodded along with the Medical Saints increasingly absurd requests while offering a few suggestions of his own. Seeing Yan back away towards the sequestered path, Luo-Luo quietly followed suit, while Mila pulled Li-Li away to do the same. Once there, Luo-Luo followed the path back out while enjoying the peaceful serenity of the bamboo grove which even blocked out Lord Husbands conversation with the Medical Saint.It was so similar to how she felt while playing Rise to Glory, as if she were the only person in the world with the music to accompany her, except instead of notes and melodies, it was wind and wood. She couldnt quite explain it, but she felt lessened by the loss as she stepped back out the other side, and she could see the others felt the same way. This one is not mistaken, right? she asked, not entirely certain how to explain it. There is something... something marvellous about the path, is there not?It felt like finding Balance in the physical world, Song murmured, and Luo-Luo instantly agreed, marvelling at her own stupidity for not seeing it sooner.It is a place of Enlightenment, Mila answered, gazing wistfully back at the path. One which brings nothingness to mind.When it became clear Mila had nothing more to add, Yan picked up the slack. Grandpa Du had a garden like that, back in Yantai, paid a fortune for a Diviner to come in and arrange it. See, most Martial Warriors can find Balance anywhere, but some believe it is best to do so in an optimal location, where the natural four elements are in Balance as well. Shrugging, she added, I didnt feel any different in Grandpas garden, but that grove...Was something the Medical Saint simply threw together. Truly a man standing at the peak of his craft, so utterly in tune with nature that he could accidentally create such a marvel.Trading a quick glance, they all wordlessly came to an agreement and headed back into the grove. Mila stopped first, then Li-Li a little distance away, then once both were out of sight, Yan took Luo-Luos hand in her own. Stay here and meditate, she Sent, offering a small smile of encouragement. Focus on nothing but awareness itself. Seek nothing, and perhaps you might find your Path, but if not, meditation can only be beneficial.Already lost in the splendour around her, Luo-Luo nodded until she noticed Yan had long since left. It was magical here even without meditation, as if nature itself was trying to whisper in her ear, but Luo-Luo couldnt quite understand the message. Putting the world out of mind, she gathered her skirts, sat down in the dirt, and sought the warm embrace of the Mother. Balance came easily, easier than ever before, and she felt the rush of Heavenly Energy washing all her worries away. Where before it was always a trickle, Chi now streamed into her Core and filled an emptiness inside her she never knew existed. It was like hearing a prominent musician play for the first time, or a master artist revealing their work, a sublime experience which transcended words and sensations.It was Heavenly, a description which said everything, and nothing at all.Chapter Meme
