Spirit City lay shrouded in faint morning mist.
Wukong finished packing and left the guest courtyard with his luggage.
As soon as he stepped outside, he saw Qian Renxue standing at the courtyard gate.
The young girl wore a long golden dress today.
She also carried a heavy food box.
Her eyes were slightly red, clearly reluctant to see him leave.
"Monkey Bro, are you leaving already?"
Qian Renxue hurried forward and handed him the food box.
"I had someone make these pastries this morning. Keep them to eat on the road."
Wukong accepted the box with a smile and ruffled her hair.
"Thanks, Xue'er. Be good while I'm away."
"Don't keep skipping class. You still have to learn what you need to learn."
Qian Renxue nodded obediently.
"I know! Monkey Bro, you have to remember to write to me once you get back."
The two walked side by side down Spirit Hall's white jade steps.
They continued all the way outside Spirit Hall.
The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect's luxurious carriage was already waiting there.
"Even if you see a friend off for a thousand miles, you must part in the end. Go on back."
Wukong turned to Qian Renxue and waved.
Qian Renxue bit her lip and nodded firmly.
Wukong turned and climbed into the carriage.
The wheels rolled, and the carriage slowly headed into the distance.
Qian Renxue remained where she was, watching until the carriage vanished at the edge of her vision.
Only when she could no longer see it did she turn back toward Spirit Hall, downcast.
The carriage traveled steadily along the main road, its wheels rattling rhythmically over the flagstones.
After they had traveled several dozen li beyond Spirit Hall's territory, a faint, elusive fragrance suddenly wafted through the carriage.
Then-
A voluptuous