Xiao Yun's Nighttime Meeting with Shui Ruoyan

He could feel her trembling, the strength with which she clung to him, and the warmth of her face pressed against his chest.

It was longing, worry, the joy and grievance of reunion after a long separation, all pouring out in this moment.

After a long while, Shui Ruoyan finally calmed down a little.

She raised her head, her eyes slightly red, yet stubbornly refusing to let her tears fall.

She looked at Xiao Yun and reached out to touch his face, as if confirming that he was real.

"You really came." She spoke softly, and at last, a smile appeared on her lips.

Xiao Yun took her hand and gently kissed it. "I really did."

Shui Ruoyan's face reddened even more, but she did not pull her hand away. Instead, she snuggled closer.

The two of them sat there embracing, neither willing to let go first.

After a long time, Shui Ruoyan softly asked, "When did you get here? Why didn't you tell me beforehand?"

Xiao Yun said, "I arrived today. I saw how lively things were outside your academy, so I waited until nightfall to come in."

Shui Ruoyan froze for a moment before realizing what he meant. "You mean what happened during the day?"

Xiao Yun nodded.

Shui Ruoyan sighed. "You saw it too. This time, Spirit Hall is determined to force us to submit to them or drive us away."

Xiao Yun did not reply. He merely gently stroked her hair.

Shui Ruoyan leaned against his chest, feeling the warmth of his palm. An indescribable sense of peace welled up within her. After a moment of silence, she suddenly asked, "By the way, did you come to see me because you needed something?"

Xiao Yun said, "I came to Snow Spirit Province this time for my