NOVEL NEXT Chapter 26: Chapter 26: Lin Yue’s Visit
Zhang Hao was about to step out, eager to test his strength at the training grounds after a period of secluded cultivation. Just as his hand touched the doorknob, a clear knock interrupted his action.
"Who is it?" Zhang Hao asked with curiosity, wondering if it was a fellow disciple seeking a sparring session.
"It's me, Lin Yue," came the clear voice from outside, taking Zhang Hao by surprise. He opened the door to find Lin Yue standing there, her presence striking him with a sense of elegance.
Lin Yue's flowing hair danced gently in the breeze, the sunlight casting a healthy sheen on her dark locks. She wore a light green dress that fluttered with the wind, a simple white sash at her waist accentuating her delicate figure. Her face was exquisite, her bright eyes as clear as autumn waters, and her slightly upturned lips wore a charming smile.
"Lin Yue, what brings you here?" Zhang Hao was surprised to see his fellow disciple take the initiative to visit.
"Zhang Hao, it's been a while," Lin Yue's voice was as pleasant as the ringing of silver bells, with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "I just ran into Li Bao, and he mentioned he saw you recently, so I thought I'd come find you."
Zhang Hao felt a warmth in his heart, touched that Lin Yue cared enough to seek him out. As he invited her in, he said with a smile, "Yes, it has been a while. I've been so caught up in my training that I haven't had time to visit you all."
Lin Yue entered the room, her gaze sweeping over the tidy space, admiration in her voice as she remarked, "Wow, Zhang Hao, your training area is so clean and organized." She noticed some training equipment and several open martial arts manuals on his bed, impressed by his dedication.
"How's your training going?" she asked with a curiosity that betrayed her passion for martial arts.
Zhang Hao grinned with pride, "I just broke through to the fifth layer, and I feel like I'm brimming with strength, as if I could move mountains and fill seas."
"Wow, the fifth layer?" Lin Yue's eyes lit up, and she scrutinized Zhang Hao's physique, "I didn't expect you to progress so quickly. I've only just reached the fourth layer of the Body Refinement stage, still far behind you."
Feeling a bit uneasy under Lin Yue's close inspection, Zhang Hao coughed lightly and changed the subject, "Lin Yue, your hair seems to have grown longer; it looks beautiful."
Lin Yue brushed her hair back, shyly responding, "Really? I've been so focused on my training that I haven't paid much attention to such things." As she moved closer to Zhang Hao, a fresh scent enveloped him, stirring his heart.
"By the way, how long have you been training here?" Lin Yue inquired with curiosity.
"Hmm?" Zhang Hao paused, calculating the days, "I haven't really kept track, but it must be a month or so."
"A month?" Lin Yue's mouth opened in surprise, "I didn't realize you've been so dedicated; time flies."
Zhang Hao scratched his head, smiling awkwardly. "So, what brings you to see me today?"
A blush spread across Lin Yue's face, and she bit her lip gently, her voice softening, "Can't I visit just to see you? I wanted to come and chat with you." Her eyes held an expectant gaze.
Zhang Hao felt a flutter in his heart, never expecting such words from Lin Yue. He reached out to touch her but hesitated mid-air.
Seeing Zhang Hao's gesture, Lin Yue's blush deepened, and she gently took his hand in hers, softly saying, "I… I just want to spend more time with you, don't overthink it."
Zhang Hao felt the soft warmth of Lin Yue's palm, a current seeming to spread from his hand throughout his body. He cleared his throat and suggested, "How about we take a walk? I could use a bit of exercise."
"Sure!" Lin Yue responded excitedly, her eyes sparkling.
Together, they left the room, sunlight bathing them as Lin Yue's smile bloomed like a flower. She walked lightly beside Zhang Hao, each step exuding a youthful vivacity that captivated him. Zhang Hao was drawn to her enchanting demeanor, thinking how Lin Yue was not only a formidable martial artist but also so beautiful and elegant.
As they strolled along the forest path, blooming flowers lined the way, butterflies dancing among them. Lin Yue plucked a fully-bloomed peony, inhaling its fragrance with a blissful smile.
"Zhang Hao, look how beautiful this flower is!" Lin Yue's voice was filled with delight as she turned to Zhang Hao, her eyes brimming with tenderness.
Zhang Hao looked at Lin Yue, her smile radiant under the sunlight. He nodded, "Yes, it's beautiful." His gaze softened, seemingly infected by her joy.
They crossed a small bridge, Lin Yue's steps lively, occasionally glancing back with a smile that quickened Zhang Hao's heartbeat. Suddenly, she stumbled, as if tripped by something.
Zhang Hao swiftly grabbed Lin Yue's wrist, steadying her.
"Be careful!" Zhang Hao said with concern, his eyes filled with worry.
Lin Yue's cheeks flushed slightly as she looked at her hand held by Zhang Hao, softly saying, "Thank you, Zhang Hao. I'm fine, just lost my footing."
Feeling the warmth of Lin Yue's hand, her soft and slender fingers made Zhang Hao want to hold on forever. He gently released her hand, the sensation lingering.
Lin Yue looked up, her gaze evasive, and apologized softly, "I… I was a bit distracted, sorry for worrying you."
Zhang Hao looked at Lin Yue, a whirlwind of emotions within him. He knew his relationship with Lin Yue was undergoing subtle changes, but he had更重要的任务 to complete and had to suppress the fluttering in his heart for now.
"It's okay, just be more careful in the future," Zhang Hao gently patted Lin Yue's shoulder, his eyes showing a hint of care.
A relieved smile appeared on Lin Yue's face, and she reached out to touch Zhang Hao's cheek, but stopped mid-air, finally gently stroking his arm. "Zhang Hao, you're so kind, thank you for always looking out for me."
Zhang Hao's heart raced as he felt Lin Yue's soft touch on his arm, a tingling sensation spreading from his arm throughout his body. He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. "Lin Yue, you're too polite. We're fellow disciples; it's only natural to help each other."
A flicker of disappointment crossed Lin Yue's eyes, but she quickly regained her smile. "Alright, let's continue walking," she gently took Zhang Hao's arm, and they continued their stroll through the forest.