After Failing to Find Immortality 175

Chapter 175: Hot Spring Encounter, A Lenient Hand

Steam filled the air.

Lin Tianlu sat in the hot spring, his expression a mix of amusement and awkwardness.

He hadn’t expected a relaxing bath to turn into such a strange situation.

“Tianlu, I didn’t know Master would do this.”

A sheepish chuckle came from beside him.

He turned to see Mao Ruoyu, her face flushed, her skin glowing with a delicate pink hue under the water. Her bath towel had slipped slightly, revealing a tantalizing glimpse of her curves. She shyly covered her chest with her hand, but the water droplets clinging to her skin only enhanced her beauty, making her look like a blooming lotus flower.

They were alone.

The vast hot spring courtyard was deserted, with only the two of them sitting side by side.

“It’s fine. I don’t mind.”

Lin Tianlu chuckled and shook his head. “I just didn’t expect Martial Aunt to be so… open-minded about these things, considering her gentle and dignified demeanor.”

“That’s just how things are in the Lunar Valley.”

Mao Ruoyu gathered her wet hair, trying to regain her composure. “As I mentioned before, the Lunar Valley has been secluded for so long. Their customs and values are different from the outside world. The elders don’t value mortal lives. Although they don’t kill, they can be quite callous at times.”

“Master and I have had our disagreements over the years. But she’s truly a kind person. Her views are just… different.”

She smiled faintly. “In her opinion, a woman should be pure and chaste before marriage, avoiding unnecessary contact with men. But once she finds her soulmate, she should be completely devoted to him, both emotionally and physically.”

“So Ruoyu’s gentle and submissive nature… is a result of Martial Aunt’s teachings.”

Mao Ruoyu blushed, a smile appearing on her lips.

Lin Tianlu recalled the Ninth Elder’s behavior earlier, his expression amused. “But Martial Aunt, she…”

“Is she being too affectionate towards you?”

Seeing his awkwardness, Mao Ruoyu chuckled, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “It’s because of her love for me… But perhaps she’s also fond of your personality, Tianlu. She seems to enjoy your company. She wouldn’t be so warm and friendly towards just anyone.”

“Is Martial Aunt usually so cold and distant?”

“She’s only gentle with those she’s close to. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have so few disciples.”

Mao Ruoyu sighed softly. “I was too young and impulsive back then. I just wanted to escape, without considering Master’s feelings. Seeing her living alone in this empty courtyard… it makes me feel guilty.”

Although her master’s appearance hadn’t changed, her joy and excitement at their reunion had been evident.

Even after all these years, her master still cared for her deeply.

And she hadn’t visited her even once. She was truly unfilial.

Mao Ruoyu felt a pang of guilt and regret.

“You were wrong to leave like that, Ruoyu. It was cruel to Martial Aunt.”

Lin Tianlu gently squeezed her hand, his voice comforting. “But you can make it up to her now. Visit her more often. You two have a special bond, like mother and daughter. Don’t let it fade.

Although the journey is long, I’ll accompany you to the Lunar Valley during holidays and special occasions. We’ll bring gifts and pay our respects.”

“Sir…”

Mao Ruoyu felt the warmth of his hand, and a sweet smile appeared on her lips. “With you by my side, I truly feel… happy.”

“Since I’m going to marry you, I have to fulfill my duties as your husband.”

Lin Tianlu was about to chuckle, but he suddenly noticed something strange.

Mao Ruoyu’s face was flushed, her breath warm on his skin. Her legs brushed against his under the water, and a seductive aura emanated from her.

“Ruoyu, are you… Hmm?”

He noticed a subtle change in the water.

A small opening had appeared in the side of the pool, releasing a milky white liquid that flowed into the hot spring, carrying a faint, sweet fragrance, like blooming flowers.

“Could this be…”

“Tianlu…”

Mao Ruoyu leaned closer, biting her lip shyly, her eyes sparkling with desire. “Master deliberately left us alone. Why don’t we… fulfill her wish?”

Lin Tianlu chuckled at her blatant invitation and gently caressed her waist.

A while later, soft moans and gasps echoed through the courtyard, blending with the sound of splashing water, a sensual melody fading into the quiet night.

But a small fox silently slipped into the water.

…

Hua Shuya, dressed in her Lunar Valley robe, her hair neatly combed, returned to the private chamber.

The Ninth Elder was waiting for her, dressed in a thin, silver robe, her tall and alluring figure faintly visible in the moonlight, her beauty as flawless as a work of art. Hua Shuya was mesmerized, not knowing how to break the silence.

“Miss Shuya, I apologize for calling you out here alone.”

The Ninth Elder turned around, a gentle smile on her face. “Seeing that you’re still… innocent, I wanted to talk to you about something.”

Hua Shuya’s heart skipped a beat, and she bit her lip. “What is it, Elder?”

“Don’t worry, I’m not trying to separate you and Tianlu.”

The Ninth Elder chuckled and took her hand, leading her towards the pavilion.

“I’ve learned a lot about your relationship with Tianlu and Ruoyu these past few days. If you don’t mind, you can call me Martial Aunt, just like Tianlu.”

Hua Shuya was startled. “W-wouldn’t that be too…”

“Considering your relationship, it’s only a matter of time, isn’t it?” The Ninth Elder helped her sit down. “It’s better to start now, so we can be closer.”

Hua Shuya blushed, and after a moment of hesitation, she whispered, “Martial Aunt.”

“You’re such a good girl. No wonder Ruoyu is so fond of you.”

The Ninth Elder gently stroked her hair. “I know I might have neglected you a bit with all this talk about Ruoyu’s marriage. And I’m grateful that you’ve been so understanding and patient.

But as an elder, I should offer you some compensation.”

“There’s no need, Martial Aunt. I—”

“Shuya, I’ve noticed your strong and healthy physique, your flexibility and agility. And there’s a certain aura about you. Have you been practicing swordsmanship for many years?”

Hua Shuya blinked her beautiful eyes. “Yes, Martial Aunt. I’ve been practicing since I was a child.”

“To have comprehended sword intent at such a young age… you’re truly gifted. But you seem to be lacking a suitable cultivation technique.”

The Ninth Elder raised her hand, and a sword flew from a nearby building, landing in her palm.

She twirled it effortlessly and held it out to Hua Shuya.

“Cultivating through martial arts and honing your skills through battles is a valid path. Your internal energy is the purest I’ve ever seen, truly remarkable. But with a proper cultivation technique to guide your spirit, your progress will be even faster.”

She formed a hand seal with her left hand and gently touched Hua Shuya’s forehead.

“Close your eyes and focus. Memorize the technique I’m about to impart to you.”

“…Mm!”

Seeing her unwavering focus, the Ninth Elder nodded approvingly.

Her calm and steady mind was admirable.

…

An hour later…

Hua Shuya slowly opened her eyes, emerging from her meditative state. The Ninth Elder was about to ask if she had memorized everything when her expression suddenly changed.

A faint aura was emanating from Hua Shuya. She was clumsily circulating the first level of the cultivation technique, clearly having grasped its basics.

“This girl… She’s incredibly talented!”

The Ninth Elder was astonished.

Although not as impressive as Tianlu, to master the basics of a cultivation technique in just an hour was still extraordinary.

Recalling the stories she had heard about their daily life, she finally believed…

“Tianlu also has a talent for teaching?”

The Ninth Elder sighed inwardly.

This son-in-law was full of surprises.

But then she glanced at the backyard, her expression turning strange as she calculated the time.

“It’s been almost an hour. Why haven’t Tianlu and Ruoyu come out yet?”

She felt a pang of concern.

Ruoyu’s constitution was unique, and she was quite passionate. She wondered if Tianlu could handle it.

If he was exhausted, she would have to help him recover.

…

The next morning…

Lin Tianlu, dressed in his clothes, opened the door and froze.

The Ninth Elder was standing outside, her hand raised as if she was about to knock.

“Tianlu?”

“Martial Aunt?”

They spoke at the same time, then fell silent, their expressions awkward.

Lin Tianlu chuckled and stepped out of the room, closing the door behind him.

The Ninth Elder asked with concern, “Tianlu, you didn’t sleep until the fourth watch last night. Shouldn’t you rest for a while longer?”

“I’m used to waking up early. I’m fine, Martial Aunt. Don’t worry.”

She studied his face, his complexion healthy and his eyes bright.

She was relieved, but also surprised.

No wonder his Yang energy had been so strong yesterday. He was truly full of vigor.

“You young people are so full of energy. Ruoyu is truly fortunate to have met you.”

Her words seemed to have a double meaning.

Lin Tianlu chuckled awkwardly. “Why are you up so early, Martial Aunt?”

“I wanted to see how you two were doing.”

The Ninth Elder smiled gently. “If you were exhausted, I would have helped you recover. I wouldn’t want you to be tired all day.”

“Cough, cough! Th-there’s no need for that.”

“Seeing you so energetic, I guess there’s no need for me to worry.”

She chuckled mischievously, her eyes twinkling with a hint of teasing. “It seems the tonic I added to the hot spring last night was quite effective.”

This Martial Aunt…

She was truly straightforward.

Lin Tianlu chuckled awkwardly.

“There’s no need to be embarrassed, Tianlu. Just relax.”

The Ninth Elder’s smile softened, her eyes warm and inviting. “Well, since you’re already up, why don’t you come with me?”

“Hmm?”

Lin Tianlu was surprised. “Go out? Leave the courtyard?”

“Second Elder has already explained the situation to the other elders, and the Valley Master is aware of it. You’re now allowed to walk around the Lunar Valley. You don’t have to stay cooped up in the courtyard anymore.”

The Ninth Elder smiled. “Since the Valley Master has granted you permission, I should show you around.”

…

Inside the main hall of the estate…

It was still early morning, and the hall was deserted.

Lin Tianlu took the opportunity to admire the surroundings, his eyes filled with awe.

The grand hall was truly magnificent, its ancient architecture exuding an aura of grandeur and mystery, like a celestial palace. Precious ornaments glittered, and a faint mist filled the air, creating a mystical ambiance.

“How long did it take to build this magnificent structure?”

“It was built by our predecessors centuries ago, and we’ve been using Yin techniques to maintain and renovate it ever since. That’s how it’s remained intact for a thousand years.”

The Ninth Elder stood beside him, her voice soft. “Be careful, Tianlu. Don’t touch anything. Many of these objects are protected by formations. You might get hurt.”

“I’ll be careful.”

Lin Tianlu looked around. “Where are we going, Martial Aunt?”

“Since you’re going to marry Ruoyu, I, as her master, should give you a dowry.”

The Ninth Elder smiled. “I’m taking you to the estate’s treasury. Choose whatever you like.”

“This…” Lin Tianlu chuckled helplessly. “Why are we suddenly discussing dowry gifts, Martial Aunt?”

“You’re from an ordinary family, Tianlu. I should follow the customs of the mortal world. But since you don’t seem interested in material possessions, I’ll choose something for you.”

The Ninth Elder smiled gently, her eyes filled with affection. “Consider it a welcome gift from me.”

…

In front of the treasury…

This place was equally grand and mysterious, protected by numerous Yin formations.

The Ninth Elder didn’t enter. She raised her hand, and several streaks of light flew out from within, landing in her palm.

“Here.”

She handed them to Lin Tianlu.

He saw two exquisite jade boxes, their craftsmanship intricate and beautiful.

Lin Tianlu was stunned. “What are these…?”

“These are pills refined by the elders, using the finest ingredients.”

The Ninth Elder lowered her voice. “There are four pills here. One to strengthen your body and enhance your physique. One to cure all illnesses and heal internal injuries. The third pill can help you clear your mind and stay true to your heart. If you ever encounter a demon or ghost who tries to use illusions on you, take this pill to break free.”

“And the fourth pill…”

“It’s for… intimate matters.”

The Ninth Elder’s voice softened, and she said seriously, “Ruoyu has a special constitution. An ordinary man wouldn’t be able to handle her. Although your Yang energy is strong, your body is still weak. You need this tonic.”

“…”

Lin Tianlu’s expression turned awkward.