"My lady, there's something I'd like to discuss with you."
At last, having gathered his thoughts, Ling Feng spoke.
Nuwa raised her head and looked at him with feigned nonchalance. "Whatever it is, go ahead."
Ling Feng did not hesitate. He went straight to the point. "Here's the thing. I discovered a treasure trove on Mount Buzhou, but I can't get inside. So I'd like to ask you to come with me, my lady. We'll split whatever we find equally. How does that sound?"
"Aren't you afraid I'll go back on my word and keep everything for myself?"
Nuwa stared at Ling Feng, deliberately teasing him. He was instantly struck dumb.
Right! How did I overlook that? What now? I've already said it.
Ah, spilled water can't be gathered back up. All I can do now is hope this little wench isn't that kind of person...
Inside, he wanted to cry but had no tears. Outwardly, however, Ling Feng wore a sincere expression as he told Nuwa, "I trust your character, my lady."
"Oh, do you?"
Nuwa played with the bangs over her forehead, regarding this man whose words belied his thoughts with a faint, knowing smile.
Ling Feng had no idea that Nuwa had already seen through him. He maintained his air of absolute loyalty and trust.
"Of course I do."
Looking at this thoroughly dishonest man, who appeared respectful but was always plotting rebellion inside, Nuwa could not help smiling faintly. Somehow, she found this side of Ling Feng particularly amusing.
"In that case, let's go. As it happens, I sense an opportunity meant for me there as well, so I might as well pay it a visit. I can also use the journey to teach you about the Dao."
Nuwa's words aroused no suspicion in Ling Feng.