Wang Yan did not rush to meet her immediately.
After settling into a nearby inn, he first cleaned himself properly and changed into fresh clothes. The long journey from Lingyun City had left traces of fatigue on him, and he did not want to appear careless when meeting her. Only after everything was in order did he take the small box containing the gift and leave the inn.
He headed toward Harmonic Court Academy.
When he arrived, he learned that Tang Yuehua was still inside. As a senior student, she often stayed longer than others and sometimes assisted during lessons, guiding juniors with demonstrations. She was still occupied and would not be free until evening.
Wang Yan did not interrupt her. He quietly left the academy grounds and waited.
As evening approached, the surroundings of the academy gradually grew calm. When the sounds of music faded and students began leaving, Wang Yan returned once more. This time, inside the academy, he finally saw her.
When Wang Yan saw her, she looked as beautiful as ever.
Her figure was calm and graceful, as if untouched by time. The moment he noticed her, a soft smile appeared on his face, and he walked toward her without hesitation.
Tang Yuehua also saw him.
For a brief second, she froze—then her eyes lit up. The joy on her face was impossible to hide. She quickly stepped closer, her lips curving into a bright smile.
"You came," she said softly.
"Yes," Wang Yan replied, just as simply.
They stood close, the noise of the academy fading into the background. After a few casual words, Wang Yan spoke again, his tone gentle.
"Do you want to go outside for a while? Just walk around… together."
Tang Yuehua's smile slowly softened. She shook her head lightly.
"Inside the academy, it's fine. But if I go outside, two soul masters from my clan will follow me. If they see me with you, they'll definitely report it. It could bring trouble to you."
Wang Yan fell silent.
For a moment, he seemed to be thinking. Then, without warning, he reached out and took her hand.
"Come with me," he said.
Before she could react, he pulled her closer and lifted her into his arms, holding her like a princess.
"Y–you—" she started.
"If no one knows we're outside," Wang Yan said calmly, "then the problem is solved."
The next instant, his figure blurred.
Using his speed, he moved through hidden paths and shadows, avoiding every line of sight. No one noticed them leave the academy. He did not stop until they reached the quiet edge of Tian Dou City, where buildings thinned out and greenery took over.
Only then did he gently set her down.
Tang Yuehua's face was slightly red. She lowered her head, her fingers still holding onto his sleeve.
"We're… outside?" she asked softly.
Wang Yan smiled.
"Yes."
They began walking forward together, hand in hand. The city sounds faded behind them as trees and open land appeared ahead. Soon, they reached a peaceful place filled with blooming flowers. In the center stood a single tree, its branches spreading gently above the colorful field.
They stopped beneath it.
Wang Yan looked at her for a moment, then spoke softly, "Yuehua… I have something for you."
Tang Yuehua blinked in slight surprise and turned fully toward him. "For me?" she asked.
He nodded and took out a small box, placing it gently into her hands. "I thought it would suit you."
She opened the box. Inside were a pair of hair clips—silver flowers and leaves, carrying a faint light-blue shimmer. Her eyes paused on them, and a soft smile slowly appeared on her lips.
"They're beautiful," she said quietly. "Thank you."
She carefully took the clips out. They were about the size of her palm. Lifting her hands, she began placing them on both sides of her hair, her movements light and graceful.
"Let me help," Wang Yan said, stepping closer.
He reached out, clearly not very skilled, his fingers hesitating. Tang Yuehua smiled and gently guided his hand, adjusting the clips herself until they were set properly.
When she was done, she looked up at him.
Wang Yan met her gaze and said softly, "You look beautiful."
At his words, a faint blush spread across Tang Yuehua's cheeks. She lowered her gaze slightly and turned her face aside, trying to avoid meeting his eyes.
Wang Yan noticed.
He reached out slowly, his fingers gentle as they brushed her cheek. With a soft touch, he guided her face back toward him. She did not resist. Their eyes met at close distance, breaths quiet and steady.
He leaned in.
Their lips met softly, unhurried. Tang Yuehua froze for the briefest moment, then relaxed, accepting the kiss. It was gentle and warm, carrying everything they did not need to say aloud.
Time seemed to pass unnoticed.
When they finally separated, they moved beneath the tree and sat together. Tang Yuehua leaned against his chest, her head resting comfortably as if it belonged there. Wang Yan's hand moved slowly through her hair, his touch calm and protective.
Neither spoke.
Under the tree, surrounded by flowers and quiet, the world felt distant—and for that moment, it was just the two of them.
After a while, Wang Yan spoke again, his voice low and steady.
"I won't be leaving Tian Dou City from now on," he said. "I plan to open a branch of the Iron Guard here. On the surface, Zhao Qing will handle everything and act openly. I'll stay hidden, working from the shadows."
Tang Yuehua was quiet for a moment, listening carefully.
"That way," Wang Yan continued, "I can remain in the city without drawing attention… and I can be here with you."
She looked up at him, understanding settling in her eyes. A gentle smile appeared, and she nodded lightly.
"That's good," she said softly.
Sitting together beneath the tree, they spoke about plans, about caution, about staying close without causing trouble. The conversation was calm, natural, and unhurried.
When they finally stood up to leave, Tang Yuehua did not hesitate this time. Wang Yan lifted her into his arms once more, holding her securely. With controlled speed and careful movement, he carried her back, unseen, returning her safely to the academy grounds just as quietly as before.
End of chapter.