Another month passed, and Chu Yang's cultivation had stabilized at the second level of the Qi Refining Stage.
Though his progress was not especially fast, considering how little time he had spent cultivating, this speed was already quite impressive.
That evening, Chu Yang and Liu Ruyan took their usual walk through the valley.
When they reached the stream, Liu Ruyan suddenly stopped.
"Chu Yang, look." She pointed toward the stream.
Chu Yang followed her finger and saw a school of little fish swimming merrily through the water.
The fish were brightly colored, their scales glinting with flecks of gold beneath the setting sun. They were a beautiful sight.
"They're so pretty," Liu Ruyan said softly, her eyes full of admiration.
Seeing the focused look on her face, a surge of tenderness rose in Chu Yang's heart.
He knew that Liu Ruyan had given up everything in Chang'an City for him and followed him to this remote valley.
Though she had never complained, he knew she must miss her parents and friends dearly.
"Ruyan." He gently took her hand.
Liu Ruyan turned to look at him.
"What is it?"
Chu Yang took a deep breath and said solemnly, "Once my cultivation achieves success, I'll give you a grand wedding."
"When that time comes, I'll take you to see your parents and let them know that you did not marry the wrong man."
Liu Ruyan froze, her eyes turning slightly red.
"Chu Yang..."
Chu Yang gently pulled her into his arms.
"Ruyan, you've suffered these past days," he said softly. "I know you've endured a lot of hardship by following me here."
"But don't worry. I won't let you suffer like this forever."
"One day, I'll make the Cui Family pay for what they've done."
"One day, I'll give you a happy