Ao Tu returned to the Flower Realm, where Jiangzhu and the Apricot Immortal both came to welcome him.
Seeing Ao Tu carrying Nezha on his back and Wukong in his hand, Jiangzhu asked, "Benefactor, what is this?"
Ao Tu smiled. "These two drank themselves drunk. Have two side halls cleaned out for them to stay in."
Jiangzhu and the Apricot Immortal agreed and prepared two side halls.
Ao Tu settled the monkey and Nezha in their respective rooms.
Jiangzhu asked, "Benefactor, shall I prepare some sobering tea?"
"No need," Ao Tu said. "Let them wake up naturally."
Jiangzhu smiled. "Benefactor, I meant for you!"
Ao Tu paused briefly, then smiled and tapped the tip of Jiangzhu's nose, teasing, "What, do you find the smell of wine on me choking?"
Jiangzhu turned away. "If you don't want any, then don't drink it. When did I ever find fault with you?"
Ao Tu smiled and pulled her back. "When did I say I didn't want any? You're the only one in this household who understands me. Hurry and prepare it."
Delighted, Jiangzhu went to prepare it.
Beside them, the Apricot Immortal quietly studied her example.
Ao Tu casually asked the Apricot Immortal, "Have you settled in here?"
The Apricot Immortal considered how she should imitate Jiangzhu's tone in her reply.
Seeing the thoughtful crease between her brows and her rather awkward manner, Ao Tu gave it a little thought and understood the reason. He drew her into his arms and smiled.
"You're someone cold on the outside but warm within, forthright and devoted to those you care about. Since I've kept you by my side, I regard you as someone close to me. What is there you cannot say plainly?"
The Apricot Immortal was delighted. She nestled into Ao Tu's embrace and,