Two Choices
Bi Fan smiled faintly and didn't argue with her. He leaned quietly against the tree trunk, gazing up at the sky and the half-moon barely visible overhead.
Chu Qingjue also leaned silently against the tree trunk, her clear eyes fixed on the burning fire as she stared blankly into it.
"Are you worried about how you'll explain things to the Palace Master of Wuji Palace when you get back, after falling out with that Senior Brother Mu?" Bi Fan turned to her and asked with a cheerful smile.
Her gaze dimmed. She watched the flames rise with the branches, then gradually die down, but didn't answer.
"I have an idea. Want to hear it?" Bi Fan asked, not minding whether she responded.
"What?" At last, she turned to him and raised her eyes, asking softly.
"Just act as if none of this happened. When you get back, carry on as usual," Bi Fan said with a smile.
Chu Qingjue furrowed her brows. "You call that an idea?"
He nodded with a smile. "Of course. Meet change with constancy. Besides, my instincts tell me the Palace Master won't hold it against you for taking my side. He might even blame that man surnamed Mu for being too petty."
Chu Qingjue's expression tightened as she pondered for a moment. Then she understood. Given that man's status, he would most likely see it as a young people's squabble over romantic rivalry.
She still held some standing in the sect, and that man had completely disregarded her when she left. He would indeed have to take responsibility for that.
"You do see things clearly," she said blandly, her eyes lowering as she gathered her thoughts.
"I'm just an outsider. It's easier to see clearly," Bi Fan said with an unconcerned smile, not