"Are we just going to stand outside? Not going to invite me in for a seat? Or are you afraid I'll eat you?"
The neighboring residents were all disciples of the Daoist academy. Already, some were craning their necks and pointing this way. Attention followed the academy's aloof fairy of the two rankings everywhere; every little oddity would become tomorrow's academy news.
Zhao Xintong fumbled the courtyard gate open, not knowing why she had failed to refuse him. Or perhaps refusing would have been useless. This man was used to throwing his weight around. Was he the sort to listen to anyone?
The little courtyard was very tidy, with almost none of the furnishings one would expect in a woman's dwelling. Only a chayote vine planted in one corner provided a touch of green. In this respect, she had probably taken after Daoist Xi's tastes.
Simple, unadorned.
But everyone's character and preferences were, in fact, different.
He planted himself on a stone stool, legs spread, and took out a Treasure Gourd. One look at its exterior told her where it had come from.
"Your aunt had something to attend to and couldn't come, so she sent me to bring you some clothes."
Zhao Xintong stood to one side. She wanted to sit, but somehow could not bring herself to do it. She could not force herself to face this villain's intensely aggressive gaze.
Seeing her standing there like a wooden post, looking somewhat at a loss, Hou Niao felt amused.
Deep in her heart, there was nothing wrong with Zhao Xintong.
But some things were ordained at birth, beyond human power to change.
Seek murderous intent amid change, and strike the decisive blow amid murderous intent.
But Daoist Xi had spoken vaguely, offering too many cryptic hints, so he could