Cao Xing did not pay much attention to the fog and headed straight for Raines's residence.
Before long, he pushed open the door.
Raines was sitting beside the fireplace, adjusting the longbow in her hands.
The moment she saw Cao Xing, the archer swiftly rose to her feet and bowed respectfully.
"Good evening, my lord."
Cao Xing said nothing. Instead, his gaze fell upon the back of her hand.
There was a bluish scar there, as if some creature had bitten her.
Cao Xing frowned slightly and asked, "How did that happen?"
Raines said softly, "Last time, in that forest, I encountered a venomous beast and suffered a minor injury while fighting it."
"But it's almost healed now."
After saying that, she hid her injured hand behind her back, seemingly embarrassed.
Cao Xing directly reached out, grabbed her hand, and pulled her into his arms.
"You've worked hard, Raines," Cao Xing said with concern.
A mist immediately welled up in the eyes of the woman in his arms.
A strong woman like her was usually quiet and reserved, as if nothing could bring her down.
But that was only in front of outsiders.
When she was alone with Cao Xing, she cast aside all her defenses.
Hearing her lord's concerned voice now, she felt as though she had found a harbor to rely on, and waves of warmth surged through her heart.
"No... it wasn't hard."
"It is my honor... to serve my lord..."
After hearing that, Cao Xing gently picked her up, sat down by the bed, and shared a tender moment with her.
Raines closed her eyes in his arms, savoring this rare time alone with him.
A moment later, as if remembering something, she softly said, "My lord, shall I report what I've discovered during this time?"