Chapter 23
A Restful Pause
Xiang's health gradually improved after a full day of rest, but her sleep was restless, and she repeatedly murmured Wen Shia's name. Shi Bao sat nearby, watching over her, her heart conflicted. The way Xiang called out for her master left no doubt—she had deep feelings for him. However, Shi Bao chose to remain silent, knowing it wasn't the right time to address such matters.
By the time Xiang regained full consciousness, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the village. She sat up slowly, her body still weak, and looked at Shi Bao. "What happened to me?" she asked, her voice soft and tired.
Shi Bao handed her a cup of warm tea. "You had a sudden fever last night. Your condition was severe, so I called for a doctor. He said your body has grown even weaker. He advised that you rest for at least three days before we resume our journey."
Xiang frowned, her expression resolute despite her fragile state. "Three days? We don't have that kind of time, Shi Bao. Every moment we delay only puts us further behind."
Shi Bao met her gaze firmly. "Mistress, your health comes first. If you don't recover properly, you won't be able to continue at all. Please, trust me on this. We'll leave tomorrow at the earliest, but you must rest tonight."
After a moment of hesitation, Xiang sighed and nodded. "Fine. Tomorrow, then. No later."
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An Evening Stroll
As evening fell, both Xiang and Shi Bao found themselves growing restless. "Let's go for a walk," Xiang suggested, her tone lighter now that she felt a bit better.
Shi Bao hesitated but eventually agreed. "Just a short walk. Don't overexert yourself."
The two stepped out into the village streets, where lanterns hung from every corner, casting a warm, inviting glow. The market buzzed softly with activity, a blend of peacefulness and life.
As they wandered, Xiang's eyes lit up with wonder. "This village is so simple yet beautiful. Look at all the lanterns and decorations—it feels like a different world."
Shi Bao smiled, happy to see her mistress momentarily carefree. They explored the market stalls, sampling candies and sweets, and admiring the colorful wares on display.
Among the items, Xiang's attention was drawn to a pouch embroidered with a phoenix in delicate silk thread. The pouch, a rich green color, seemed to resonate with her. She bought one for herself and another for Shi Bao.
Later, they came across a unique pendant—a pair designed as two squirrels, their tiny eyes glowing with a faint red light. The shopkeeper explained that the pendant pieces were enchanted; if separated, the glowing eyes would help reunite the pair, no matter how far apart they were.
Xiang bought the pendant without hesitation.
Shi Bao raised an eyebrow. "Why did you buy a couple's pendant?"
Xiang avoided her gaze, slipping the pendant into her bag. "I just liked it, that's all," she said nonchalantly.
Shi Bao, however, saw through her words. She knew Xiang had purchased the pendant with her master in mind. The thought of Wen Shia lingered in Xiang's expression, though she said nothing more.
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A Familiar Encounter
As they strolled through the market, a familiar figure appeared in the crowd—Wen Shia. He was browsing a stall but paused when he spotted Xiang and Shi Bao. Approaching them, he spoke in a calm but firm tone. "You shouldn't be out here. You need rest to recover properly."
Xiang froze at the sound of his voice. Something about it felt achingly familiar, though the man before her looked entirely different. She frowned and asked cautiously, "Do we know you? Your voice… it feels like I've heard it before."
Before Wen Shia could respond, Shi Bao intervened. "He's the doctor who treated you, Mistress. He told you to rest."
Wen Shia quickly seized the opportunity to deflect. "Yes, that's all. You should take care of your health."
Xiang narrowed her eyes, unsure but unwilling to press further. The resemblance in his voice stirred something deep within her, but she dismissed it, thinking perhaps she was imagining things.
Wen Shia, on the other hand, recognized Xiang's voice immediately. His heart skipped a beat, but he maintained his composure. Could it really be her? No, it's impossible. She wouldn't be in a place like this, weakened to this extent.
"I have work to attend to," Wen Shia said abruptly, stepping away before the conversation could deepen. Both sides harbored suspicions but chose not to act on them, fearing the consequences of their truths being revealed.
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The Lantern-Lit Market
After Wen Shia left, Xiang and Shi Bao continued exploring the market. The peaceful ambiance calmed Xiang's lingering doubts. She admired the simple beauty of the village, from the glowing lanterns to the cheerful chatter of the townsfolk.
At another stall, Wen Shia stopped to examine a white jade comb. Its design was simple yet elegant, with delicate carvings that reflected the light. It reminded him of Xiang—strong yet gentle, powerful yet graceful. His thoughts wandered as he considered buying it.
Elsewhere, Xiang held the squirrel pendant in her hand briefly, her fingers brushing against the smooth surface. She thought of her master again, her feelings a mix of longing and uncertainty. She slipped the pendant back into her bag, her heart heavy yet hopeful.
The market glowed with warmth and life, but underneath its surface, unspoken truths and emotions swirled among the three individuals, each holding onto secrets they dared not share.