In Bailing's palace on Wutong Mountain in the Blazing Nest.
A beautiful woman in brilliantly colored robes reclined on an embroidered couch. Her bearing was otherworldly, her purity like that of a celestial immortal banished to the mortal realm. She gazed pensively at the distant mountains, the faint flicker in her eyes revealing that her heart was not as tranquil as she appeared.
This woman was Bailing, daughter of the Golden Roc Great Sage and princess of both the Blazing Nest and the Feather Clan.
Just then, exquisite zither music drifted in from beyond the courtyard. Its clear, lingering notes plucked at her heartstrings, soon drawing her attention.
Li Chen walked slowly inside, carrying an antique zither of exceptional quality.
He had abandoned the alloy battle suit that other cultivators had found somewhat eccentric, changing into traditional long robes. After repeated enhancement modifications and beautification through Painted Skin, his handsome features possessed extraordinary charm. His bearing was as vast as the sun-filled heavens, inspiring others to look up to him.
Bailing had never expected Li Chen to visit her. She hurriedly rose and saluted him. "Bailing pays her respects to Grandmaster Li."
"No need for such formalities," Li Chen said. "I only came to meet with you privately and ask you a few questions."
Somewhat surprised, Bailing said, "Please go ahead, Grandmaster."
Li Chen went straight to the point. "What do you think of the marriage alliance your father proposed?"
"Well..." A trace of embarrassed irritation crossed Bailing's face. She had never expected Li Chen to ask her about this, but she had no choice but to answer. "It is my parents' command. I need only obey their wishes."
"So you are willing?" Li Chen asked.
"Yes." Bailing did not understand his intentions, but she still answered in the affirmative.