When Zhu Zhuqing stepped out, morning light slanted through the window, gilding her in a soft golden halo.
Her black outfit clung to her tall, balanced frame; her hair—still damp—was loosely tied back, with stray strands clinging to her pale neck.
Her cheeks retained a faint flush, though much improved from when she'd first woken. Her eyes had regained their usual clarity.
Dai Chengfeng's gaze lingered on her for a moment. "Feeling better?"
"Much better."
Zhu Zhuqing tilted her head slightly, smoothing her hair. "The bath really helped."
Dai Chengfeng nodded, turned to tidy the bed, then looked out at the bright sunlight beyond the window.
Spirit City had fully awakened. Faint clamor drifted from the streets below, and the distant spires of the Spirit Hall gleamed gold in the sun.
"Shall we head to the training chamber now?"
But Zhu Zhuqing surprised him by shaking her head. "Today… I'd like to go for a walk."
Dai Chengfeng turned, eyebrows raised. "A walk?"
"Zhuqing, you should be resting…"
"I know."
She bit her lip lightly. "I just… We've never really strolled through Spirit City together."
Dai Chengfeng studied her rare display of vulnerability. Those eyes—usually so sharp and cool—now held a flicker of expectation… and a trace of shyness.
His heart softened.
He suddenly realized: since they'd met, their time had always revolved around training, combat, missions. Even back in Xing Luo, they'd never shared the simple moments ordinary couples enjoyed.
"Are you sure your body can handle it?"
His voice gentled as he stepped closer, brushing a damp strand from her cheek.
"Mm."
She nodded firmly. "Just a short walk. If I get tired, we'll come back."
Seeing her resolve, Dai Chengfeng finally relented.
"Alright."
A tender smile curved his lips. "Let's go for a walk."
"But promise me—if you feel unwell, tell me immediately."
"I promise."
Joy sparked in her eyes—a radiance that made Dai Chengfeng's chest tighten.
"Wait while I change."
He walked to the wardrobe, pulling out simple dark-gray casual wear.
As Dai Chengfeng disappeared into the bathroom to change, Zhu Zhuqing went to the dressing table and combed her hair smooth.
"What are you thinking about?"
His voice came from behind—he'd already emerged.
Dark-gray trousers paired with a white shirt, topped with a matching coat. The outfit accentuated his height and bearing, yet stripped away royal formality. He looked like an ordinary noble youth—though the innate aura of authority in his brows remained unmistakable.
"Nothing."
Zhu Zhuqing set down the comb and stood. "Ready to go?"
Dai Chengfeng nodded, naturally taking her hand. "Let's go."
Her fingers curled slightly in his grasp—but she didn't pull away, letting him lead her out.
---
Morning in Spirit City was vibrant.
As one of Douluo Continent's grandest cities, it teemed with soul masters, merchants, and travelers from every corner of the land.
Shops lined both sides of the street, their signs glittering in the dawn light.
The air carried the mingled scents of food, fresh flowers, and bustling crowds.
Hand in hand, Dai Chengfeng and Zhu Zhuqing walked side by side through the throng.
"Where to first?"
Dai Chengfeng glanced at her, subtly adjusting his pace to match hers.
He noticed her gait still carried a hint of stiffness—but said nothing, only slowing his steps to ease her stride.
Zhu Zhuqing scanned the surroundings, her eyes drawn to an elegant arched bridge in the distance.
"Let's go there. The river beneath looks clear."
It was the Tian Shui River, cutting through the city. Sunlight danced on its surface, where small boats drifted lazily. Both banks bustled with shops and stalls.
"Alright."
Dai Chengfeng led her toward the bridge.
Passing a flower shop, they saw a kind-faced elderly woman arranging fresh blooms at the entrance.
Morning light made the flowers glow; their fragrance filled the air. Zhu Zhuqing's steps slowed as her gaze fixed on a bouquet of pale purple irises.
Dai Chengfeng followed her look. "Like them?"
"They're beautiful," she murmured, still captivated.
"Ma'am, how much for these?"
Dai Chengfeng was already at the counter, coin purse in hand.
"Five copper soul coins, young man."
The old woman's eyes twinkled as she glanced between them. "For this lovely lady? Excellent choice—irises suit a girl with such a cool, refined aura."
Dai Chengfeng paid and took the carefully wrapped bouquet, offering it to Zhu Zhuqing.
She blinked in surprise, accepting the flowers. The purple petals trembled gently in her hands.
She bent her head to inhale—the scent was delicate, understated… much like herself.
"Thank you," she whispered, ears tinged pink.
"No need." Dai Chengfeng smiled, reclaiming her hand. "Let's go."
They walked on, Zhu Zhuqing cradling the flowers in one hand, the other clasped in his. A strange warmth bloomed in her chest.
This ordinary moment felt like a luxury.
In the Zhu family, her life had been nothing but training and competition. Even after meeting Dai Chengfeng—though she'd gained support—their bond had mostly been forged in battle.
To simply walk hand-in-hand under the sun, soaking in the city's energy without a care… this was entirely new.
They crossed the bridge, watching fish dart through the crystal-clear river below. Children played by the bank, laughter ringing like bells.
Unnoticed, the sun climbed higher. The streets grew more crowded.
"Ahead is Spirit City's famous Soul Master Market," Dai Chengfeng pointed to a vast plaza ahead—teeming with people and stalls. "Everything a soul master needs: soul-guided artifacts, potions, soul beast materials, martial arts manuals…"
"Want to take a look?"
Zhu Zhuqing nodded. Naturally, she was curious.
But as they neared the plaza, two familiar figures appeared at the entrance.
One was tall, golden-haired, exuding bold confidence—none other than Dai Mubai.
Beside him stood Oscar, his short hair neat, wearing his usual gentle smile.
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