Zhu and Ning's Late-Night Talk

Ning Rongrong grew a little uncomfortable under her gaze. She lowered her head and muttered softly, "Really, there isn't..."

Zhu Zhuqing sighed softly.

"That's good." She released Ning Rongrong's hand, her gaze settling on the osmanthus tree in the courtyard. "Then why did you bring up that matter? Do you know that raising such a topic at the meeting was completely thankless?"

Ning Rongrong fell silent for a moment before finally raising her head.

Under the moonlight, her eyes were somewhat conflicted.

"Zhu Qing," she said quietly, "as a member of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, I have to consider the interests of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect."

Zhu Zhuqing froze slightly.

Ning Rongrong continued, "Besides, given my status, I'll definitely have to marry someday. That isn't something I get to decide."

She paused, her voice growing even softer. "My father has only one daughter. Sooner or later, the future of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect will fall on my shoulders. I... I can't think only of myself."

Zhu Zhuqing fell silent.

She understood.

She understood all too well.

If she had remained in the Star Luo Empire, remained with the Zhu Family, her fate would have been so similar to Ning Rongrong's—used by her family as a tool for a political marriage, wed to that promiscuous Dai Mubai, and made a sacrifice in a power struggle.

But things were different now.

She was free.

Zhu Zhuqing looked at Ning Rongrong, complicated emotions rising within her. She opened her mouth, wanting to persuade her of something.

But Ning Rongrong spoke first.

"I know what you want to say." Ning Rongrong looked at her with a trace of understanding in her eyes. "You want me to stay here forever, or simply become Teacher Xiao's wife, don't you?"

Zhu