Every morning, Qian Renxue arrived at the main courtyard right on time, preparing Chen Xuan's washing things and a pot of tea.
She did everything with great care. Every movement was beyond reproach, perfectly befitting a disciple.
Chen Xuan accepted her service without hesitation.
Sometimes he sat by the window reading; other times, he closed his eyes to rest. He seemed not to notice her at all.
But Qian Renxue knew he had seen her.
His omnipresent spiritual sense could probably keep track of every time her heartbeat quickened.
The feeling made her feel as if she had thorns in her back.
That afternoon.
Chen Xuan sat in the pavilion in the courtyard, holding an ancient book.
Qian Renxue stood at his side, serving him tea.
Her movements flowed like water and were a pleasure to watch. She had clearly received excellent etiquette training.
"Teacher, please have some tea."
She respectfully offered Chen Xuan a freshly brewed cup of Biluochun Tea.
Chen Xuan did not take the teacup. His gaze remained on the book.
"Your Soul Power circulation has three points of stagnation along the Lesser Yin Foot Meridian."
He spoke in a calm voice.
Qian Renxue's hand, holding the teacup, suddenly froze.
She instinctively gripped the saucer, and her heart skipped a beat despite herself.
Here it came again.
That feeling of being seen through at a glance.
"...Yes. This student is foolish."
She replied softly.
"Take off your shoes and socks."
Chen Xuan's tone held not the slightest trace of emotion, as if he were asking her to do something utterly ordinary.
"What?"
Qian Renxue jerked her head up. The color drained from her face, then flooded back in an unnatural crimson.
Take... take off her shoes and socks?
Here?
"What, don't understand?"
Chen Xuan finally lifted his