Vasha threw herself into Situ Xuan's arms like a swallow returning to its nest.
Her body pressed lightly against Situ Xuan's broad, solid chest, her long orange-red hair spilling loose, the soft strands brushing over his arm. The star mark on her forehead dimmed slightly, and she completely shed the cool aloofness she usually wore as the Starry Sage, leaving only utter dependence. She buried her cheek against his chest, listened to the steady, powerful heartbeat beneath her, and spoke in a muffled voice.
"You're back?"
All the killing intent and indifference in Situ Xuan's eyes faded away, leaving only gentle warmth. He lowered his head to look at the person in his arms, the corners of his mouth lifting into a rare, tender smile. His long arm naturally tightened, wrapping steadily around Vasha's slender, supple waist and holding her firmly in his embrace.
"Mm. I'm back."
After experiencing the Three Cosmic Calamities and reaching perfect enlightenment, he had already let go of all his former obsessions, and no longer deliberately suppressed his own emotions or true nature.
In the past, his heart had held only becoming stronger and revenge. He had deliberately cut himself off from all warmth, severed every unnecessary bond, and forced himself to become a sharp blade that knew only slaughter.
Now that his Martial Dao had reached sincerity, following his heart was the Dao. He no longer needed to suppress the softness within him, nor did he need to push away those who treated him with sincerity.
Just as the two of them were embracing in quiet intimacy, a rush of quick, light footsteps came from the stairwell leading to the rooftop.
A slender figure hurried onto the high platform, red hair drifting in the wind, her brows and eyes filled with unconcealable nervousness and