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The wind had a sharp sting as the chill whipped across You XiaoMo’s tender and exposed face. Under its onslaught, the full cheeks were becoming a peachy pink color. Strong currents of air hit him at full force, thrashing against his small frame, threatening to toss him under its drift.

They were on their way home from Zhongtian. You XiaoMo had wanted to buy some more books for his study, so he and Ling Xiao took a small trip out there. While there, they also saw a few of You XiaoMo’s old Happy House friends and acquaintances. At the Pieces Restaurant, they caught up together, ate some food and discussed the new gossipings along with any new pill refining topics.

They didn’t linger long, only stopping to shop for a little bit before an excited You XiaoMo couldn’t wait any longer, he was anxious to stock up his study once again, so they headed back to XiJing.

Only flying for about three hours since their Dimensional Seal sent them out in the middle of the mountainous XiJing. They could’ve used Ling Xiao’s ability to teleport, but since the man has become the Supreme, he’s rarely used the new skill. Besides, You XiaoMo found it as an excellent excuse to use the Dimensional Seal gathering dust in his magic bag, if not used it’d be too wasteful!

He had been excited to fly over the mountainous and valleys view, he’s been cooped up too long in the palace walls lately. It’s been a couple of months since he’s flown this long, then again, when You XiaoMo suggested this he thought the weather would resemble that of the nice and clear Zhongtian.

Instead, You XiaoMo shivered for the third time. Flying under depressing dark and low clouds, heavy with what he assumes is soon to be rain, as the air was cold and damp.

He could use his soul power to cover his body and keep some warmth to himself. Although, that would take a lot of soul power consumption and to fly with his ability was already not a small price.

Ling Xiao who was flying slightly ahead, side glanced at his wife’s body posture, saw him holding his arms and biting his teeth.

“Do you want to take a break?” Ling Xiao asked, slowing down his flight enough to be next to him.

Shaking his head, You XiaoMo’s face was a little uncomfortable, stiffly said, “No, I can go on, I’m just cold..”

Ling Xiao’s eyebrows rise, sweeping a gaze up and down his body, “Why don’t you use your soul power?”

You XiaoMo sighed, with a slightly pained expression, explained, “Because I’m already consuming soul power at a decent rate. If I do that, I will deplete too quickly. I’ll have to resort to drinking spirit water.”

Ling Xiao looked at him with an odd expression, he felt like his wife was making a fuss, raising the corners of his mouth, revealed a cynical smile, “You know I could carry you and solve this whole problem.”

Then, opening his arms wide toward him, Ling Xiao smiled until his eyes turned into slits, saying with a tone as light as down, “Come, your husband’s arms are always open for you.”

You XiaoMo was giving Ling Xiao his patented kitten like glower. The mouth had just opened to speak, a loud rumble of thunder drummed as rain was finally set free, falling on them like a spilled bucket of water.

Instantly You XiaoMo’s face collapsed, he had wanted to avoid the rain...

Looking pitifully defeated, a sulky You XiaoMo slumped his shoulders and silently lifted his arms towards his husband.

Ling Xiao had to use his willpower of steel as not to laugh, looking at that cute face that was fuming with agitation, so quickly turn around to acceptance, along with that pout, one could possibly hang two catties of pork on that little mouth. So pitiful and amusing his wife ever is.

Scooping up his little wife in his arms, Ling Xiao holds him tight, with the speed of flight increased toward the closest town.

Thanks to Ling Xiao’s masterpiece, as soon as You XiaoMo was held in the man’s arms, he instantly felt the rain no longer pelt him, along with the fierceness of the cold had decreased.

Sighing with content, You XiaoMo suddenly is very happy he didn’t refuse Ling Xiao after all.

He snuggled in as close as he could, soaking up the man’s warmth. Nestling his face deeper into Ling Xiao’s chest, inadvertently using the fabric of his luxurious black robe to rub the rain off his face.

Even though XiJing has grown a lot in the recent four years, the area still isn’t kind enough to easily build human-like cities. So the closest town was still two hours away, luckily Ling Xiao’s speed of strength is beyond fast so they will probably get there within the hour.

You XiaoMo with his face buried in the black cloth, lungs started to have a feeling akin to that of an itch. While avoiding the cold further, he tucked his arms into Ling Xiao’s side, letting out a few muffled coughs into the broad chest.

Of course, Ling Xiao heard and felt it, bowing his head he looks down at his wife, looking at him intensely, “Do you want to go into my dimension? I’ll call you out when we arrive.”

You XiaoMo hurriedly shook his head against him, he doesn’t like being thrown in there, he wants to stay with him.

Ling Xiao narrowed his eyes at him, but he no longer keeps the topic. Instead, he pulled his speed up even faster, in the blink of an eye the terrain flashed splashes of color as they mixed.

Within even shorter time, they arrive at the closest available small town. It’s not fancily built but looks sturdy, mostly all shaped Wicked residents, the area is surrounded by a natural fence of trees and encircling hills.

Landing outside the unguarded gates, Ling Xiao walks into the town, eyes scouting through the rain for a place to stay. After walking five minutes, he finally finds a modest looking wooden cabin style inn.

Walking in you can see the inn isn’t huge, but it’s spaciously organized.

The front is simple but welcoming as the first floor serves as a small restaurant. There are even a couple of patrons already eating dinner, sitting near the middle and rear of the dining room lobby area. When the two of them enter, everyone’s gaze zeroed in on them momentarily before withdrawing back to their own respectable conversations.

You XiaoMo was dozing in and out during the rest of the way here, and when they arrived at the inn he shivered as he felt the change in temperature on his cold skin.

You XiaoMo looked around after slowly awakening and was slightly startled. He didn’t realize they already made it to a town, he tried to move his hands and let himself down, but Ling Xiao’s unyielding arms wouldn’t budge, firm grip holding him even tighter in response.

Ling Xiao didn’t even look down at him, in a stern tone warned, “Behave and stay still.”

You XiaoMo’s efforts immediately stopped, his heart quickly rang warning bells, he felt like Ling Xiao’s voice held a certain level of threatening. Why would he be mad though? He hasn’t done anything wrong…

You XiaoMo summons the courage to curiously venture a look up at the side of Ling Xiao’s face. At one glance he shrank back down in his arms upon looking. The handsome face was currently expressionless, if maybe a little tense, besides that he couldn’t tell what had happened.

Little did a clueless You XiaoMo know or even realize, that the whole way when he was buried in Ling Xiao’s chest he was periodically coughing and shaking. You XiaoMo was asleep, so of course, he doesn’t remember doing it.

As Ling Xiao paid for the room, You XiaoMo could only passively lay in the man’s arms, looking away in embarrassment when the Inn’s Stewart stole a glance at him before leading them up to their room.

Even though it was the inn’s best room, it was still somewhat small with humble but straightforward furniture, at least it was nicely decorated in certain places.

You XiaoMo’s grip tightens excitedly when he notices the bed. Luckily it is a nice and large size, now to hope it’s at least soft enough to his liking.

In his excitement, he unknowingly let out a cough. He then heard Ling Xiao excuse the Stewart, he turned his head and saw the humble looking man already gone. He watched as Ling Xiao maneuvered his arms to close the door behind him and lock it.

Ling Xiao took them to the edge of the bed, and when You XiaoMo was placed across it, to his disappointment he found the bed wasn't soft. At least it’s not hard as wooden boards.

Shivering slightly, You XiaoMo looked towards the window. The rain was pouring against the glass, as the sky was now fully darkening into evening hours. In his distraction, he suddenly feels deft fingers removing his clothes. Startled, he looked at the culprit across him with big wide orbs.

You XiaoMo grabbed his hand to stop him, looking at him doubtfully, asked, “What are you doing?”

Ling Xiao gave him a smile but yet not a smile, calmly explained, “Your clothes are damp.”

You XiaoMo looked down at himself, it’s only then that he realized what Ling Xiao said is true. With all the sensations outside he forgot about it, but now that he mentioned it, it felt very uncomfortable against his skin. It was drying with an almost steaming, and itching sensation to it.

Ling Xiao doesn’t wait for him to respond, with swift movements he pulled off his garments, leaving You XiaoMo’s ability to object out the door.

By the time he’s pretty much naked, You XiaoMo is thinking Ling Xiao is going to try something and make a move on him. Then contrary to his expectations, the man instead goes to his magic bag placed on the table and removed You XiaoMo’s spare clothes from it. Ling Xiao took a thin white long sleeve shirt and pants and brought it back to the bed’s naked occupant.

You XiaoMo’s head had become cloudy, he watched embarrassed as Ling Xiao dressed him in his clothes. He had wanted to protest and say he could do it himself, but with one look at Ling Xiao’s domineering attitude, You XiaoMo decided to let the words disappear from his tongue. When the man was finished, he let out a sigh of contentment, as the fresh and crisp feeling of dry clothes on his skin felt so good.

Ling Xiao rubbed his head gently, smiling lightly, “Feels better, no?”

Leaning into the touch, You XiaoMo closed his eyes and nodded his head in the affirmative.

“Then you should rest and sleep. We’ll leave here first thing tomorrow and go back home.” Ling Xiao said as he is already pressing You XiaoMo’s body down to the bed.

You XiaoMo’s eyes snapped open, blinking rapidly, with a confused tone said, “Isn’t it early still?”

Ling Xiao stared at him with unfathomable eyes, half-squinting, “Does it matter?”

You XiaoMo looked up and weakly replied, “.......no.”

When his head touched the pillow, You XiaoMo suddenly felt tired. He faintly wondered why, as last night he had a full night’s sleep, but before he could ask himself any further, he already dozed off in a blink of an eye.

An hour later, You XiaoMo’s head is giving off a light dull throb, along with a stomach that feels like it’s somersaulting around. Since he hasn’t eaten anything after breakfast, he assumed it's hunger yelling at him to wake up. He slowly cracked open his eyes, making a light hum noise as he woke up. The first thing he saw was a still awake Ling Xiao staring at him from the tea table nearby.

Ling Xiao has been watching his wife with very intense and thoughtful eyes. Even though they’ve been together for many years now, he has yet to see You XiaoMo sick with anything more than a headache or slight head cold.

You XiaoMo licked his lips, a slightly hoarse voice asked, “Is the kitchen still open?”

Ling Xiao raised his eyebrows slightly, “You’re hungry?”

You XiaoMo was grimacing as he attempted to get up, with a voice full of doubt, said, “I think so.”

Ling Xiao’s eyes narrowed as he questioned him, “Something hurts?”

“Head throbs a bit, nothing bad. I’m fine.” You XiaoMo replied with a grin, releasing the hold he had on his head.

Ling Xiao went to the bed and once again pushed down his shoulder, making You XiaoMo lay back down, “I’ll go order something, you stay still.” Finished talking, he didn’t wait for You XiaoMo to speak before he turned and left the room.

As soon as the door was shut, You XiaoMo’s body was wracked by a coughing fit. It at first felt like a tickle, so he tried to cough it out, but it kept getting worse. By the end of it, his chest is so uncomfortable and burning, he groaned into his pillow miserably.

Around this time, Ling Xiao has returned to the room, along with a tray of hot food. Steaming bread rolls, a bowl of soup and vegetables.

You XiaoMo watched as Ling Xiao placed the tray on the table. His eyes instantly sank, with his chest burning he didn’t think the idea of eating will feel so great. That said, he wanted to make his stomach stop flipping against his ribs, so he decided to suck it and made the effort to get up.

You XiaoMo clenched his teeth when he held the urge to moan, the dull throbbing intensified with his movement.

When he made his way toward the table to sit, he didn’t notice Ling Xiao’s sharp eyes as they watched his every reaction. After he sat down, You XiaoMo reached for the spoon, but his hand paused mid-way, it hovered awkwardly before retracting back at his side, his eyes swept around the room.

Ling Xiao was still standing near him, noticing his eyes floating everywhere, he thoughtfully asked, “You’re looking for something?”

You XiaoMo’s focus snapped back to the man when he heard his voice, biting his lip before he replied, “I forgot to wash my hands, was looking for the basin.”

The corner of Ling Xiao’s lip slightly curved up, eyes smiling, pointed to the left side corner, “Over there.”

You XiaoMo’s lips made a silent ‘oh’ sound. His head jarred with the movement of standing, causing a sharp pain to shoot across it. You XiaoMo’s face quickly contorted into a pained wince, his movements froze in the air, back still bent over awkwardly.

A hand went to hold down his shoulder, pushing him back down in his chair. You XiaoMo heard Ling Xiao’s voice float over him with a simple order, “Sit.”

When the sharpness finally subsided a few moments later, he feebly lifted up his head up to see a damp washcloth offered in front of him.

Embarrassed, You XiaoMo gingerly took the cloth into his hands, flushed while saying, “Thank you.” He was feeling overly self-conscious, his heart was nervous, not sure how to handle such an attentive Ling Xiao at the moment.

After wiping his hands thoroughly, You XiaoMo dived into the food. At first, he wasn’t excited about eating, but the warm soup down his burning throat started to feel relaxing. A small smile escaped his lips as he sipped greedily.

Ling Xiao sat across him, watched with smiling eyes, amused at the facial expressions his little wife was making. Happy to see him act more like his usual self, Ling Xiao started to relax a little. Just as he was thinking this, You XiaoMo paused in his eating actions abruptly, standing frozen in motion, his face looked stiff.

Ling Xiao instantly narrowed his eyes, he quickly asked, “What’s the matter?”

You XiaoMo pursed his lips tightly together, face paling fast, he dropped the spoon back in the bowl, leaned back into his chair, in a tight voice, replied, “Don’t feel good…”

Ling Xiao’s eyes look him up and down, urged him, “Where?”

Not answering his question, You XiaoMo instead took deep breaths through his nose, with eyes shut tightly, he tried to calm his body to relax against the stomach flips. A terrible wave of nausea hit him so fast, he wasn’t prepared.

Seeing him not reply, Ling Xiao asked again.

You XiaoMo finally opened his eyes, in a tired tone he answered, “I’m fine, now. Sorry.”

Ling Xiao suspiciously stared at him, of course, he doesn’t believe him.

Feeling the pressure under the man’s stare, You XiaoMo tried to use an upbeat tone to convince him, “Really. I felt nauseous, but it’s passed. I think I’ll just go back to bed as you said.”

Finished talking he gets up very slowly, movements were that of a snail’s pace. Having walked back and got back into the bed, he pulled the covers up and over himself.

Ling Xiao remained seated at the tea table, dark eyes didn’t stop continuing to watch him, his face was thoughtful.

Although the night was still early, around eight o’clock, Ling Xiao decided to lay down with him. He wrapped his arms tightly around his wife as he closed his eyes to go to sleep.

Not even an hour had passed before the small body across Ling Xiao’s chest was fluttering with a slight coughing spasm. Ling Xiao opened his eyes, looking down at the person in his arms. His wife was taking small wheezing breaths in his fretful sleep, the fair and delicate face covered with a thin layer of sweat.

Ling Xiao raised his arm, wanting to get a better view of his face, he lifted a hand to brush the loose strands of hair off his damp forehead, in doing so he felt the heat emanating off his skin. Shock floated across his face, Ling Xiao’s eyebrows rise, seemed his wife now has a fever as well.

Afraid he is having trouble breathing, Ling Xiao pulls You XiaoMo off his chest and positions him to sleep on his back instead. Turning on his side, Ling Xiao lays next to You XiaoMo’s body, at the same time not too closely, as he doesn’t want to add any more heat to him than necessary. He ends up only putting a resting arm across You XiaoMo’s thin waist.

Ling Xiao’s profound eyes stared at his wife’s chest. He watched it go rhythmically up and down, and only when it has been stabilized for a couple of hours, did he finally allow himself to fall asleep for a little while.

When dawn arrived Ling Xiao woke up, he immediately zoned in on the little body next to him. His wife was still sleeping, but in the middle of the night seemed to have moved to cling to him like always. Except now there’s a more substantial amount of sweat dampening his hair and face and his breathing seemed oddly labored. When he touched his cheek Ling Xiao felt his temperature was also slightly higher.

Ling Xiao frowned deeply, he wasn’t sure what to do. In order for You XiaoMo to recover, he needed to get them home as soon as possible. Possibly his wife’s alchemy room has something to help him or Tian Xiu might, but then again You XiaoMo was is in no condition to travel.

He would like to let him go rest in his dimension as he makes the journey, but with no one there to watch over him, that option doesn’t make him feel at ease. Sighing, Ling Xiao looked deeply down at him, seems like the only option is to make his wife travel-friendly and extremely bundled up.

Sometime later, You XiaoMo woke up, in doing so he made a noise of discomfort, feeling like his body was disassembled and put back together improperly. In finally opening his very heavy eyelids he noticed Ling Xiao wasn’t here, casting a quick gaze at the window he realized it was already morning.

Slowly sitting up, You XiaoMo held his sluggish head, the throbbing has gone but has now been replaced by a fuzzy and dizzying feeling.

When he swallowed saliva, he felt his chest constrict painfully like something was blocking it. You XiaoMo tried to cough in an attempt to see if that would release the pressure, to which he regretted immediately. As that just made things worse, whatever it was, was now constantly blocking his airway, quickly developing into a severe coughing bout.

At the same time, while his body is being violently wracked by coughs, his stomach decided it’s going to reject last night’s little bit of soup. The rushing of nausea hit him so quickly he barely had time to register it.

Forcing his limbs to react, You XiaoMo jumped up and out of the blankets at panicking speeds, rushing towards the empty stone basin in the corner he used last night. He only has time to grab the bowl as he kneeled to the floor, emptying what felt like all his insides.

Ling Xiao happened to walk in at this exact moment, quickly saw You XiaoMo bent over on the floor, violently sick and coughing at the same time.

Within a second Ling Xiao is already at his side, kneeling on one knee, his large hand stroked his back in soothing circles, movements were careful as to not disturb him any further, but also afraid that he would choke if he didn’t calm down, “Calm down. Breathe slowly.”

You XiaoMo’s body is being wracked wildly, constructing painfully to the point of two crocodile tears sliding down. The contents of his stomach have already long been expelled, now it’s just dry heaving and whatever bile he has remaining.

Ling Xiao carded his fingers through his hair, action helping to move it out of his face, voice unconsciously softening, “Lady. Be good. You have to calm down.”

Under the calming actions and soothing voice, You XiaoMo finally was able to focus on willing his body to slow down, he took shaky and short breaths. Finally calming down, he felt so physically used and abused as he wiped his mouth hastily.

Not knowing how much longer he can hold himself up, You XiaoMo shifted his gaze to Ling Xiao, with a weak voice he asked, “Water?”

Ling Xiao only paused for a moment before getting up, pouring him a cup of water and handing it to him quickly.

You XiaoMo took it greedily, as his mouth now has a lingering and horrible aftertaste. He sipped a mouthful before spitting it out into the bowl to wash out his mouth. Placing the cup on the floor, You XiaoMo looked around as if in a fog and started to move.

Before he even had the opportunity, Ling Xiao already had picked him up and was taking him to sit on the bed.

Looking over Ling Xiao’s shoulder, You XiaoMo gazed at the floor in a slight panic, hurriedly said, “Wait, I need to throw that out…”

Words not even finished, a ‘puchi’ sound could be heard as the stone bowl suddenly lite up, flashes of red flames flickering in You XiaoMo’s surprised wide eyes.

Ling Xiao’s voice floats over his head, in a dull tone, said, “No need.”

Once he sat up, You XiaoMo took in a rattling hot breath, one could hear the apparent congestion inside. Thinking about things, he lifted his head to looks at Ling Xiao, curiously asked, “Ah, where’d you go earlier?”

With a thoughtful expression, Ling Xiao’s hand reached out to stroke his fever reddened cheeks, in an unhurried voice, “I was looking for supplies so that we can leave as soon as possible.”

You XiaoMo tilted his head, looking at him questionably. Not quite understanding, what supplies could they possibly need?

Ling Xiao doesn’t answer his silent question, after all, he’ll know it later, instead, he asks his own, “Feeling any better? Do you want to take a bath?”

As You XiaoMo resisted the urge to cough again, he thought about it for a moment. He does feel sweaty and he did just throw his guts up, but then again, his body was aching so bad he’s not sure he has the motivation.

Ling Xiao saw his forlorn expression, able to guess what’s going through his head, with a smiling gently said, “I can help you.”

You XiaoMo immediately gave him a suspicious look, he opened his mouth to comment but instead lets out a series of coughs. It was such painful discomfort every time he breathes, his throat was starting to burn so much his eyes were turning red with moisture.

Ling Xiao caught the body in front of him drooping, quickly patted him lightly on the back, helping to alleviate his stress.

Frowning, Ling Xiao quickly made the decision for him, securely hooking his arms under You XiaoMo’s legs and back, he looked at him and spoke in a no room for discussion tone, “We’re going to your dimension.”

You XiaoMo doesn’t even have the energy to look at him, only a small hand to catch Ling Xiao’s arm as the two instantly disappear in place.

Instantaneously through the spatial distortion, the two are surrounded by a majestic view; luscious green grass, bright blue sunny sky, lines of trees in the distance, not far away there are large tracts of magic herb fields in different maturity stages. The most eye-catching scene is near a small wooden cabin there is a softly colored rainbow translucent water-filled lake in the center.

Taking them to the edge of the lake, Ling Xiao let You XiaoMo down gently from his arms, helping to stabilize his weight upon standing. His hands are already outstretched ready to help undress him when You XiaoMo grabs his collar, with a pout on his lips, softly protested, “I can do it this time.”

Ling Xiao removed his hands, knowing his little wife can be stubborn, with a crafty smile on his face, he lifted his hands up in surrender, “Okay, okay.”

You XiaoMo puffs his cheeks out, proud of the first small victory in two days. Then proceeds to start undressing as he lets out sounds of suppressed coughing.

By the time he’s removed his pants, You XiaoMo is swaying a little unsteady. That’s when a hand is suddenly on his elbow, he turned his head sharply to its direction and saw Ling Xiao has caught him in his firm grip. Not only that, the man is also undressed.

Surprise awakens You XiaoMo’s tired face briefly, breathlessly said, “You’re also taking one?”

Ling Xiao’s face seemed a little tense, but it only lasted a moment, as an exuberant smile replaced it quickly, with a tone as smooth as jade he spits out, “Of course, who’s going to wash your back if not?”

You XiaoMo wanted to make a snarky comment, but he saw it, the taut nerves of Ling Xiao. He knows the man is worried about him, so he chooses to be a good and complainant wife instead.

Ling Xiao held his hand and pulled him into the lake water, the pace is slow as they wade into the cool liquid.

You XiaoMo instantly started to shiver uncontrollably. It was freezing to his overheated skin, like walking through snow feeling. As they got in deeper, he started to move at a snail’s pace, dreading to be surrounded by that chill.

Ling Xiao felt the resistance and hesitation in his arm, with a teasing tone, he mercilessly said, “You know it’s like a band-aid, the faster you get it over with the faster you’ll acclimate to it.”

You XiaoMo pouts pitifully at him, half of him wanted to ask him when he learned that saying, but when he thinks the man is the master of everything, he lets it go.

When the snail kept on hesitating Ling Xiao finally got fed up, moving to scoop up his little feverish wife into his arms, plunking him down with him into the colorful water as they sat them down on the lakebed floor.

You XiaoMo wailed pitifully while he shrank into the man’s arms, he shivered so violently it was making his already aching muscles feel even worse. You XiaoMo buried his face and arms into Ling Xiao’s chest, trying to steal his immediate warmth.

Ling Xiao’s eyes danced with amusement, the corners of his lips curled looking at the sight before him, but when he thought about why he was acting this way, his face fell into a deep frown.

Ling Xiao brought him closer to his body, placing a wet hand to You XiaoMo’s forehead, he felt the heat was still on the rise. Using his hand, he started to scoop water and pour it over the unexposed areas of his wife’s skin.

With every drip of water, You XiaoMo’s body jolted with discomfort. He’s already frustratedly upset that this bath is unbearable and now he’s rubbing more salt in his wounds.

“I-it’s..too-oo...c-cold…” You XiaoMo softly complained in a jerky manner, he squirmed as if to escape the man’s ministrations but the strong arms refuse to loosen.

Ling Xiao now has mostly covered his steaming skin with water, in an indifferent tone, explained, “The temperature is fine. It’s only cold to you because you’re overheating.”

When he finished speaking, Ling Xiao lifted You XiaoMo from his chest and in a domineering manner, lowered the thin body back into the water, effectively dipping the majority of his head into the lake water.

You XiaoMo’s eyes become big black orbs in alert. He was startled when he was abruptly lowered into the wet coldness, but before he could complain, he was already lifted back to sitting position on Ling Xiao’s lap. In his overexcitement, You XiaoMo started another small round of coughing and wheezing fit.

Ling Xiao once again stroked his back in a gentle manner, trying to soothe the tense body, hoping to ease the fit to end sooner. He let out a relieved breath, when he saw You XiaoMo’s remove his hand from his chest, he knew that it had passed.

Ling Xiao held a wheezing You XiaoMo to lean and be supported on his shoulder, he lifted the black hair that was draped naturally over his wife’s shoulder. Soft and supple, shiny like lustrous silk that he loved to touch, any other day, he’d be taking advantage of this moment to enjoy him more fully. He was hoping the spirit water will work and help him regain his strength quickly, he didn’t like seeing his wife like this.

After a while You XiaoMo’s body started to adjust better, the shivering soon subsided to just slight tremors, till finally his whole body was soft and sinking into Ling Xiao’s sturdy and strong chest.

When the person in his arms was starting to fall asleep, Ling Xiao got up and out of the water, holding his precious cargo he went toward the cabin nearby. Water dripped along the wooden floors as he placed You XiaoMo to sit on the bed. After making sure he wouldn’t fall, Ling Xiao went and gathered towels from a cupboard and returned to his side.

His wife’s little cabin had pretty much everything by now. As he very much liked to shop and has collected a lot of varied items. Especially practical everyday things, he always seemed to feel they never had enough of that.

Throwing a towel around You XiaoMo’s thin shoulders, Ling Xiao started to dry him off, he took great care as to not jostle him around too much. He had expected him to protest in his actions, but the little body below him was very much almost a foot into dreamland.

Hurrying up as much as he could, Ling Xiao dressed You XiaoMo into a spare set of clothes, which are also kept in the cabin. Afterwards, he dries off the remaining water left on himself before putting on a clean set of clothes as well.

You XiaoMo’s head was so heavy. He heard a soft voice call to him, it even had a teasing affliction to it as well, it told him something along the lines of ‘we can leave the dimension now’.

He obeyed sleepily before feeling the spatial distortion change and they were now back into the hotel room. Having done what he was asked to do, You XiaoMo no longer wanted to stay awake, his eyelids drooped he fell into a restful sleep.

It was sometime later until he opened his eyes.

When You XiaoMo awoke, the sound of wind whistling entered his ears, although the sound itself was slightly muffled as if hitting something.

He forced his eyes open and everything was dark, all he could see was a broad and strong chest in view. The white and luxurious robe fabric was caressing his cheek as a familiar scent entered his nose.

Taking stock of his own person, You XiaoMo quickly felt he was tightly wrapped and constricted in heavily layered fabrics. It left him feeling simultaneously hot and cold at the same time.

“Hi there sleepyhead.”

Above You XiaoMo’s head, Ling Xiao’s deep and unhurriedly voice, extremely pleasant to the ear was heard.

It’s only then that You XiaoMo noticed it, that he was wearing a long hooded cape. As his face had been completely covered by it, no wonder it was so dark when he woke up.

You XiaoMo raised his arm, tilting the cape’s hood back so he can look up at the man. When he does so he’s immediately assaulted by bright sunlight, defensively he quickly shut them again, it seemed the sun was already nearing noon.

Adjusting some, You XiaoMo tunneled out from under the hood, rubbing his still asleep eyes. He craned his neck looking around but only saw they flying in the air.

Ling Xiao pulled the hood back to cover his face again, firmly said, “Be good. We’re almost home.”

For the most part, after their spirit bath, Ling Xiao saw You XiaoMo’s condition improve. His wife slept soundly in his arms until an hour ago. That’s when he felt his breaths were getting shallower, and through his hold, he felt You XiaoMo’s chest still rattling at times.

You XiaoMo fiddled with the edge of the cape’s material. The gray color was kind of bland, but it’s actually better quality than he would assume at first look. It seemed to have a decent wind blocking ability, he barely felt the push of the cold air against him with it wrapped tightly around him like this.

Realization flashed across his fatigued face, You XiaoMo lifted his face to look at Ling Xiao and excitedly asked, “Is this what you meant by supplies?”

Ling Xiao bowed his head, a playful grin had spread across the corners of his lips as he said, “What do you think?”

You XiaoMo bit his lip, in a shy manner he replied, “....yes.”

That said, You XiaoMo then proceeded to pull the special fabric tighter around him, snuggling back into Ling Xiao’s chest. Honestly, he’s still very tired and would prefer a few more hours of sleep.

Ling Xiao didn’t say anymore, also wanting to let him continue to rest.

Despite efforts, You XiaoMo instead got a very fitful sleep, as his chest was burning up with every breath along with nausea hitting his stomach walls. Struggling to get comfortable, he let out slight moans and fidgeted in the man’s arms.

Luckily, Ling Xiao’s speed was fast, so they were flying over the Demon Mountains within fifteen minutes later, passing over familiar hills and valleys.

Just as they just hovered over the remains of the old Cartilage mountains, You XiaoMo suddenly choked on his breath, another coughing fit wracked his small body.

You XiaoMo gripped Ling Xiao’s robes tightly in his small hands, squeezing with every ounce of strength he had, burying his face into his chest as his eyes stung with the tears he refused to release.

Ling Xiao’s face tensed, he looked expressionlessly down at his wife. He had hoped the spirit water would cure him, but for some reason, it only alleviated his current level of fatigue and not the symptoms.

Thinking of this, Ling Xiao couldn’t help but feel a little irritated and worried. He immediately picked up his speed and flew towards the back of the mountains, in the direction of their palace.

Landing outside the gate, Ling Xiao made his way toward the very elaborate door, kicking it open and heading towards their bedroom suite.

Luckily no one was at the entrance or main hall to see them, not that Ling Xiao would stop to talk to them right now, his goal was firm.

Having made it to their room, Ling Xiao passed the inner screen taking You XiaoMo into their bedroom. After having discarded the extra clothing around You XiaoMo, he made sure his wife was comfortable and tucked in bed.

As soon as his head touched his extra soft and silky bed, You XiaoMo released a wheezy moan, comfortably nestling his face into the cool pillow, instantly dozing back into a fretful sleep.

Ling Xiao reached out to feel his forehead once more, he sensed the temperature was still high, but at least it’s not risen. The bath seemed to help in that aspect temporarily.

Ling Xiao observed him carefully for a few more moments, getting up he turned around and left the room, swiftly in the direction of Ghost Crying Cliff to find Tian Xiu.

You XiaoMo was being roused awake by coldness, the horrible feeling of ice like fingers touching his skin, they were moving his face around as cold air touched his chest and arms.

In his dazed haze, he shied away from the touch, trying to turn around and away from it, but a stubborn cool hand refused to relent and let him.

You XiaoMo let out a whine of discomfort and frustration in the back of his throat. Why are the cold hands bothering him? He just wanted to rest, he was finally resting damn it.

In his unhappiness, he heard distant voices talking over him. They sounded like they were above thick water at times, coming in and out as he zoned between consciousness.

“What’s wrong with him?” A deep voice laced with heavy worry broke his haze, the soul deep familiarity rose his consciousness.

“If I’m correct, it’s going to be very hard to treat…” Tian Xiu’s voice said faintly.

Ling Xiao’s voice was stern as he impatiently said, “Out with it.”

“He seems to have caught an ancient strain of flu. To be more specific it’s called the Cullan flu, it’s originality is from a lower level plane. From what I have read, over 50,000 years ago someone crossing the planes brought it over, it was a small epidemic but well contained. After that, the people of the Tong Tian Continent have grown an immunity, and it’s thus no longer has been a problem, just to be forgotten.” Tian Xiu calmly said, his cold like voice softening some.

“Then why does he have it?” Ling Xiao’s asked directly, voice tinged with frustration.

There was a momentary pause before Tian Xiu replied, “The Young Master isn’t from the Tong Tian Continent correct? His immune system must have been weakened enough to allow the strain to take effect, especially since he’s not from here originally he won’t have the immunity.”

Ling Xiao quickly zeros in on what he said earlier, in a cold like voice, “Why did you say it will be hard to treat?”

Tian Xiu sighed, in a factorial tone, answered, “As I said, it’s been gone for nearly 50,000 years. As well as it’s not originating from Tong Tian Continent, so there are no ancient recipes for an elixir or magic pill left behind. We can only treat his symptoms and use whatever knowledge previously gained to prevent his flu from becoming severe pneumonia.”

Ling Xiao’s voice ringed out darkly, “He’s already getting worse.”

“He seems to be on the edge of pneumonia already. He needs to be treated immediately. I’ll go back to study the textbooks and leave a list of instructions for you as soon as possible.” Tian Xiu said readily.

As the voices faded, You XiaoMo heard faint footsteps as they exited the vicinity.

In the quiet of the room, relief finally finds him as his chest and arms were once again covered up by a soft blanket.

With burning lungs, You XiaoMo wheezed into the cold side of the pillow. Immediately fingertips are stroking his face gently, these are also cold, but they brush so feather-like careful You XiaoMo isn’t bothered by this touch. Instead, he sighed and rubbed against them as they soothed him back to sleep.

The following in You XiaoMo’s memory was very choppy and fragmented.

At difficult moments, when he felt like he couldn’t breathe, a hand would rotate him over on his side. It would also stroke soothing motions up and down his back, doing so until he would calm down enough to fall back into a very bone aching exhausted sleep.

Other times, You XiaoMo felt a horrible cold wetness traveling across his face and chest. He’d whine and squirm away, but he had no strength to fight back, as someone held him firmly in their hold.

He doesn’t know when it happened, but he was shaking non-stop, as it felt like he was outside in winter time. It wasn’t helping that a hand kept pulling the blankets off him, he’d absentmindedly reach for it, but it’d always be out of reach.

You XiaoMo would also wake up periodically feeling like he was drunk. Watching through a fuzzy lens and using eyes that didn’t want to open, before dozing back into another light sleep.

His shivering finally escalated to the point of sparking muscle spasms. You XiaoMo’s face would contort in pain, groaning absentmindedly through clenched teeth, these were moments he finally saw through the haze for a second.

Around this time, You XiaoMo felt a sudden burst of even more air hit him. His skin was slowly being nakedly exposed to the chill, he hated it, but as he trembled he again had no energy to fight against it.

Then, feeling his body pressure lifted up, he was vaguely aware of being no longer on the bed. Before he could struggle to open his eyes and look out the lens, he was very much forced to awaken.

You XiaoMo screamed, the loud shrill sound reverberated off all the walls in the bathing room. Waking not only himself but probably anyone in the palace.

You XiaoMo found himself in a freezing tub of bath water, his eyes were as wide as they ever could be. He was gasping for breath trying to escape it, arms and legs finally found some resemblance of strength with fight or flight senses, he was kicking water everywhere.

Ling Xiao’s arms reached out and quickly held the flailing arms in both firm hands, holding the person still to prevent his violent reaction from quickly hurting himself.

Ling Xiao was slightly shocked, he didn’t expect him to have such a strong reaction, but then thinking over it made sense. His wife’s fever had risen so high it had reached dangerous levels, so to lower it as soon as possible, he had to do this. Although the water wasn’t covered with ice like You XiaoMo probably assumed, it was decently cold, especially so to his overheating skin.

Quickly and naturally recovering, Ling Xiao in a commanding tone, sternly said, “Lady, calm down.”

You XiaoMo stopped his movements, the panic-stricken eyes instantly snapped to his face. He tried to talk but couldn't, his breathing was coming in so ragged with light coughs mixing in between. The small body was violently shaking as if someone was kicking him.

Ling Xiao knew what he wanted to say, calmly said, “Your fever is too high. We have to get it down fast. Do you understand?”

You XiaoMo stared blankly. He was scared, no, he doesn’t understand. To be suddenly woken up like this, why and what has been happening? Plus, his mind was being distracted by the freezing temperatures attacking him.

Too many things to process at once; his body hurts, mind felt like it’s underwater, chest burned, and then the missing lapses in time. You XiaoMo was so very overwhelmed...

Ling Xiao watched his wife’s face carefully and he soon slightly jumped in shock. To his unexpected horror, he saw You XiaoMo’s eyes quickly go red before two little silent tears trickled down his delicate cheeks, what followed that was weak and faltering sobs escaping his thin and frail body.

Not understanding why he was crying, Ling Xiao hastily held up his face with both of his hands and unconsciously softened his voice, “Lady, don’t cry. It’s fine. You’re fine. You’ve just been in and out of sleep this whole time, okay? Don’t cry.”

In the midst of his fever-stricken drunkenness, You XiaoMo felt Ling Xiao’s hand caress all over his face. He’s not sure if it’s his actions or voice, possibly both, but he was instantly feeling calmer.

The soothing and melodic, deep voice was leading You XiaoMo out of his delirium state. He sniffled as he took shaky deep breaths in, and finally looked up with tear stained cheeks at the man expectantly.

Ling Xiao sighed imperceptibly, rubbing the tear tracks away, he smilingly said, “Perfect. Now behave and try to not move around so much. The sooner you relax, the faster your temperature will go down, and then you can get out of there.”

You XiaoMo nodded numbly in reply, teeth clattering against the cold.

He looked on blankly as Ling Xiao placed his arms back under the freezing water. He hissed and reflexively wanted to retract them, but thinking of what he said just a moment ago, he willed himself to stay still.

Trying to get comfortable, You XiaoMo leaned back against the jade tub. It was harder said than done, as he was trembling so hard his muscles protested in exertion, it was like an icy hell.

You XiaoMo let out a fragmented groan, moving his sad and pitiful eyes toward Ling Xiao. The man was sitting next to him, arms rested on the edge of the tub, lips were holding a small curvature of a knowing smile.

You XiaoMo would love to try to speak and ask questions, it would at least distract him from this torture, but he’s too afraid of biting off his tongue right now.

After around three minutes, Ling Xiao reached out and touched You XiaoMo’s forehead, feeling the temperature had lowered a little, he let a satisfied smile tug at his lips. Grabbing a stray cloth next to them, he proceeded to dip it in the water and use it to start to cool off his reddening face.

With every excruciating second that passed, You XiaoMo was becoming exceedingly exhausted. At the same time, some awakening was being jarred into his cloudy mind.

When the ten-minute mark hit, his body had finally acclimated somewhat. As he stopped convulsing in shivers and was just now periodically tremoring. You XiaoMo wanted so badly to sleep, but he as he had finally saw above that hazy lens, he also wanted to stay awake.

Eyes closed, You XiaoMo whispered ever so softly, “Ling Xiao….”

Ling Xiao immediately answered him, “Yes?”

You XiaoMo weakly raised his right hand out of the water, palm outstretched as if wanting something.

Ling Xiao readily held the offered hand into his large one, thumb gently massaged the side of it as he asked in a low tone, “Feeling better?”

You XiaoMo opened his heavy eyes, mustering up more strength, he licked his dry lips before he weakly replied, “A….a little...what...what’s wrong with...me...”

Although the last few parts were said as softly as a mosquito, Ling Xiao still managed to hear it.

Ling Xiao kissed the fair white hand within his, with a thick voice, reassuringly told him, “You have a type of flu, but you don’t have to worry, you’ll be just fine. You have the great me taking care of you after all.” After he spoke, the corners of his mouth lifted up to reveal a devilish and charming smile.

You XiaoMo looked blindly at Ling Xiao’s smile, it was quite refreshing to see honestly. The handsome face was tinged with an enchanting and manly elegance, he felt his heart start to calm after seeing Ling Xiao act so natural. Believing his words, he let a small smile flutter across his lips.

After a few more minutes had passed, a dozing off You XiaoMo felt arms reach under the water to hold underneath his back and knees. Having felt his body pressure lifted up, he woke up to see Ling Xiao was already moving him toward a decorative stone chair in the corner.

When You XiaoMo sat down, he looked up numbly. For some reason, he zeroed in on Ling Xiao’s now front soaked chest, a sad tone, he cried, “Your shirt got wet…”

Ling Xiao when straightened up he squinted at him, indifferently said, “So? Such trivial things.”

Even so, You XiaoMo let his eyes drop to the floor. He became angry with himself now. Look how useless he’d become, some strong mage he was. Who knew what trouble he has been causing Ling Xiao, he doesn’t want to be a burden to him.

To make matters worse, in his self-reflection, Ling Xiao was wiping him down with a towel. Feeling guilty, You XiaoMo reached out a shaky hand to catch the towel currently around his shoulders, hurriedly said, “Wait. Wait.”

When he felt Ling Xiao pause and not make any further action, he jumped to explain, flushing while he said, “I-I can do it. You don’t have to bother yourself.”

Ling Xiao raised his eyebrows, looking down at him, he stated, “I’m not bothering myself.”

You XiaoMo pulled gently on the towel anyway, refusing to meet his eyes, he meekly whispered, “Please…”

Ling Xiao let him pull the cloth from his hands, “Whatever you want.”

You XiaoMo quickly did a victory pose in his heart. He then took the remaining dry side of the towel and aimed to work on his wet chest and thighs.

At first, he had confidence in doing this much, but as he got toward his hips, he started to struggle with the effort. The act itself made his arms look as if bobbing in and out of the water, the sight was quite pitiful.

Finally could not take it any longer, Ling Xiao reached out to hold the tiny wrist, stopping his attempts. When Ling Xiao caught his gaze, in a placating manner, said, “That’s enough. I can do the rest.”

Knowing when defeated, You XiaoMo passively lowered his head, nodding in agreement as he released a few stray coughs.

Ling Xiao didn’t take long, he made quick work of finishing with efficient movements. When done, he carried You XiaoMo back up and went through the adjoining door to their bedroom.

You XiaoMo’s hands circled Ling Xiao’s neck, clinging to him tightly as he buried his face in the man’s chest, trying to suppress the coughs that wanted out.

Ling Xiao intended to rest You XiaoMo in the chair near their bed, but You XiaoMo’s grip became desperate as he held on. In his current condition, he doesn’t have much strength at all, but his attempts were noticed by Ling Xiao, causing the man’s eyebrows to rise in surprise.

Ling Xiao straightened up as he held a squirming You XiaoMo in his arms, amusement touched his voice as he questioned, “Lady?”

You XiaoMo muffledly stated, “No.”

Ling Xiao rubbed his cheek against his damp head, laughed, “While I’m perfectly fine with holding you, does this mean my wife is okay if someone comes by and sees his perfectly delicious bare ass in my arms?”

You XiaoMo’s tired mind suddenly rang alarm bells, no, no he does not want that…

When he felt his wife’s little arms released their desperate cling, Ling Xiao’s lips curved upward in a bright grin and this time successfully transferred him to sit in the chair.

Before he moved to the wardrobe, Ling Xiao paused and looked at You XiaoMo, eyes looked him up and down and said, “Are you okay to sit up?”

You XiaoMo slunk down into the chair. Honestly, he was fading fast, that strength he used earlier soaked him almost dry, but he still nodded his head at the man anyways.

To keep himself from zoning out, You XiaoMo started to look around the room. He saw Ling Xiao’s tea table was moved even closer to the bed, and not only that, he finally noticed the chair he was sitting in.

It’s one of their large wicker chairs from the outer bedroom. Ling Xiao must have moved it in here next to the bed. His guilt suddenly just folded three times more. Wait? How long has he been out of it? Ling Xiao never said that part…

In his musings, Ling Xiao had already returned in front of him.

You XiaoMo took a wheezing breath as Ling Xiao maneuvered him gently into his nightshirt. Drumming up the courage, he drowsily whispered, “How-how long...have I been sick?”

Ling Xiao didn’t pause or blink while he vaguely answered, “Only a few days.”

You XiaoMo finally summoned up the strength to lift his head up, staring at the man’s face, nervously asked, “No really, how?…” He doesn’t finish his words as a coughing fit hit him, sparked by getting himself so worked up.

Ling Xiao stopped to hold You XiaoMo steady, already used to soothing these coughing fits, he quickly calmed his stressed body with deft movements.

You XiaoMo was like a rag doll in Ling Xiao’s arms, without the man’s hold, he would long be on the floor.

Ling Xiao kept him supported as he skillfully finished pulling up You XiaoMo’s pants.

“Just one more minute then we’ll lay down, okay?” Ling Xiao comfortingly said to him, rubbing his head gently.

When You XiaoMo felt the disappearance of his hand, he moved his gaze to the bed. Where the man with one swift tug pulled the sheets off the bed, then readily replaced a new clean one in its place. Like Ling Xiao said, he was back in no time, You XiaoMo’s soft body was soon lifted up again.

As they landed on the bed together, You XiaoMo coughed before sighing with content. He once again had his Ling Xiao ‘pillow’ back, and most importantly he could go back to sleep.

Before sleep could capture him, You XiaoMo remembered something, against the broad warm chest he staggeringly whispered, “You never did...answer me.”

Ling Xiao’s hand was idlingly twisting a lock of You XiaoMo’s hair, hearing his question his actions had a moment of stagnation, but the body in his arms didn’t notice, as if the words were an easy breeze, he answered, “Just five days.”

You XiaoMo’s mind froze in its haze, ‘just’ the man said… He’s missed out on three days of time, in fact, he didn’t even really remember getting home so it’s more like four.

Feeling the body in arms go stiff, Ling Xiao in his soothing magnetic voice, quickly said, “Listen to me. Yes, it’s been few days but look at you now. Talking and being awake, you’re already on the mend. Be happy.” When he finished his words he squeezed his thin waist.

You XiaoMo wasn’t happy but he was successfully consoled. Proceeding to no longer fight off sleep as he nestled deeper into the man’s chest.

Ling Xiao was relieved when he felt his wife has finally fallen asleep. The peaceful and rhythmic steady breaths taken were lovely to his ears, he was just hoping they stay that way. Ling Xiao had told You XiaoMo that he’s on the mend, in actuality, it’s the opposite, as he’s been steadily getting worse. That being said though, with him being mostly coherent and talking was a great sign, so that was progress in Ling Xiao’s eyes.

Thanks to the bath at least his fever went down some. In all honesty, Ling Xiao figured he probably shouldn’t be laying down with him right now. He might run the risk of forcing You XiaoMo’s temperature to climb again, but he also at the time didn’t want to upset his wife. The fever was apparently getting to him as he was seemingly disoriented and fragile.

The next time You XiaoMo awakened, it’s only been a few hours later. Although, since he didn’t pay attention to the time earlier, he had no sense of how long he’d been out.

Feeling Ling Xiao no longer underneath him, You XiaoMo made an unhappy sound as he fumbled his hand around the bed for him. He finally decided to lift his head to look, and the night luminescent pearl that illuminated the room showed him there was no Ling Xiao in sight.

Sighing, You XiaoMo let his head fall back to the pillow, when his gaze shifted to the bed he discovered something. No wonder he was so cold, Ling Xiao only has a sheet on top of him. He knew the man did so because of his fever, but still, how was he supposed to relax and recover when he shivered himself awake? One more blanket wouldn’t hurt him.

Thinking this, You XiaoMo’s focus shifted toward the spare linen cabinet along the wall. Taking a few rattling breaths he coughed a bit before he finally decided on what to do. He told himself, if he thinks he can’t make it, he’ll just turn around.

You XiaoMo rolled slowly over onto his side, but in doing so he realized his whole chest ached with fire. Pushing past it, he used a burst of strength to push himself up to sit on the edge of the bed.

Just that exertion of muscles had his arms quivering and panting, but he didn’t want to give in yet.

You XiaoMo’s soft little bare feet soon touched the cold floor. As he prepared and steeled himself to move, he quickly once more checked the door, upon seeing the coast clear, he raised up on weak knees. Walking only two steps he almost fell immediately, grabbing the wicker chair for the support he managed to stay upright.

Immediately, he wasn’t sure how much longer he could stand up, as his knees were already wobbling. Not only that, his increased panting has caused his breathing to constrict, causing it to felt like someone squeezed his chest together in a vice grip and kept doing so.

You XiaoMo finally couldn’t take the blinding pain. It was wracking all over his body, struggling to breathe gasping he eventually collapsed to the floor. Knees falling as his body crashed against the smooth surface of the floor.

In You XiaoMo’s distress, all he could do was fight the black spots that threaten his vision. Scared, he called out Ling Xiao’s name when he could.

As soon as Ling Xiao opened their bedroom door, he heard it. It was so soft, barely a sound. Ordinary individuals shouldn’t be able to this far away, but Ling Xiao immediately heard his wife call his name.

Ling Xiao’s face sank as he disappeared in place. Not within even a second, he’s into their room, startled and eyes widened at the scene before him. In the blink of an eye, he’s already at his wife’s side.

You XiaoMo was laying on his front, struggling to breathe as Ling Xiao carefully turned him around. Kneeling on the floor, Ling Xiao picked him up into his arms, checking him quickly for any sign of external injuries, luckily he saw none but they were still not out of the woods yet.

You XiaoMo’s eyes were unfocused staring past Ling Xiao, he spits out fragmented breaths as his throat fought him with spasms, in a whispery voice said, “Ling…” Not finished speaking You XiaoMo’s eyelids slowly closed shut, finally blacking out as his head lulled against the man’s chest.

Ling Xiao’s face became expressionless before panic flashed wildly in his eyes, moving a hand to touch his face, he gently shook him while he called out loudly, “Lady!...Lady, XiaoMo!” His movements grew more desperate and louder as he went.

Ling Xiao patted his cheeks to try and wake him, the little body was wheezing so badly. Suddenly a thought crossed his mind, his head snapped up as is gaze shifted to a shelf on the wall.

Standing up, Ling Xiao held the passed out You XiaoMo in his arms going toward the shelf. Adjusting his hold around, he reached a hand out to grab a magic bag. As he sifted through it, his hand landed on that jade bottle of spirit water, and relief briefly flashed across Ling Xiao’s stiff face. It was only ten drops but hopefully, it was better than nothing.

Biting off on the cork, Ling Xiao poured the water into his mouth, then leaned over and pressed on You XiaoMo’s listless lips, forcing the highly concentrated water down the unwilling throat.

A few seconds passed and there wasn’t any change. Ling Xiao’s continued attempts at coaxing You XiaoMo awake have also fallen to naught. The man finally could not stand it, in frustration and also hope to wake him, a loud roar ripped from Ling Xiao’s throat. Held within it was every bit earth shattering and aggressive that a Emperor Beast of his magnitude contained.

The sound itself shaking the mountains and moon awake. Even the people down in Bone City felt the ground beneath their feet vibrate at this action.

Not sure which one caused it but You XiaoMo’s eyelids finally started to show signs of movement beneath them. It’s was so small a response but Ling Xiao was already elated at just the sight of it.

“Lady, be good and wake up, or I’m going to be mad.” Ling Xiao softly threatened, his deep voice was filled with taut nerves and laced with thinly held anxiousness.

As if answering to his threat, You XiaoMo’s eyes fluttered open. It was only a few seconds that afterward his face contorted into pain, as his taking a deep breath in turned into a cough, in a hoarse voice, whispered, “Hurts…”

Ling Xiao was at first filled with instant relief, he couldn’t stop himself from leaning forward to touch his forehead with his. Although, his happiness was only a moment, as You XiaoMo’s whisper broke through his senses.

Pulling back abruptly, Ling Xiao’s eyes scanned his face intensely, urgently asked, “Where?”

You XiaoMo’s eyes were tightly closed, breathing through his nose, he could only put a shaky hand on top of his chest.

Ling Xiao’s eyes became intense while thinking. Tian Xiu was currently making a magic pill to elevate You XiaoMo’s coughing symptoms, if his calculations were correct, he should be done by today. He could also force You XiaoMo to take them back inside his dimension, but if he passed out again he would have no way to leave. Seemed like there is only one option left right now.

In a protective manner, Ling Xiao held his wife close to his chest as they instantly disappeared in place.

The next time You XiaoMo woke up it was in an unfamiliar room. In an impressive first glance, the brightly lit area showcased shell color painted walls with high-quality decorations strung across it.

“Do you think cost is a problem? Do you know who my wife is? It doesn’t matter, so just get on with it.”

What got You XiaoMo’s sluggish attention was hearing Ling Xiao’s curt and deep voice. There was a tinge of irritation painting it that got him alert.

“Ling…” You XiaoMo whispered weakly. He tried to speak but found his voice was so dry and unused, it felt like sandpaper.

A moment later, Ling Xiao’s handsome face was instantly magnified in You XiaoMo’s view. His senses were being overfilled with the man’s scent and touch, the familiarity that was so deep in his bones, it gave his soul a pleasurable calm feeling.

Ling Xiao gave a smile that was as fresh as a spring breeze, he touched his hair soothingly, “How are you feeling?”

You XiaoMo licked his dry lips, swallowing hard a few times, and when he felt he could finally use his voice, faintly replied, “Tired. Where are we?”

Ling Xiao’s hand cupped his face as he slowly said, “We’re in Zhongtian. Here to pick up magic pills as well as commission some to be made for you. Just simple transactions.”

You XiaoMo’s drowsy gaze stared at Ling Xiao’s face, “I-I don’t remember…”

Ling Xiao knowingly smiled at him before he patiently explained, “That’s fine. You not remembering is normal. At the palace, your flu suddenly turned into pneumonia, and you had a severe reaction where you lost consciousness. We’ve been treating your symptoms, so you should start to feel at ease now.”

You XiaoMo thought it over. Although there was still a difficulty, he did seem to be able to breathe easier than before, as well as the burning sensations were simmering down greatly.

His gaze shifted over the room, he noticed that whoever Ling Xiao had been speaking with earlier had already excused themselves and were gone.

You XiaoMo suddenly felt extremely thirsty. He then started to stare at the pitcher of water on the table, in a hoarse voice asked, “Can I have water?”

Even though it was hard to detect, Ling Xiao’s eyes were lit up with joy, “Of course.”

Ling Xiao got up and poured him a cup, he brought it back towards him saying, “You’ll need to sit up.”

You XiaoMo nodded his head in understanding. Then his back was soon being lifted and supported by Ling Xiao’s hand wrapped around him. Before he could reach out, Ling Xiao already had the cup placed at his dry lips. He soon took large greedy sips, not realizing how thirsty he was.

Much to his dismay, Ling Xiao abruptly removed the cup from his lips, the man gave him a funny look and said, “Slowly.”

When the cool crystal returned to him, You XiaoMo obediently obeyed.

Having finished getting his fill, You XiaoMo licked his now moistened lips, he looked up gratefully to Ling Xiao and in a voice much clearer said, “Thank you.”

Ling Xiao patted his head, eyes held a smile as he replied, “No problem.”

You XiaoMo leaned forward to rest on Ling Xiao’s shoulder, realizing it’s been a full five minutes without an attack, he curiously asked, “What did you give me? I do feel better.”

Arms circling the tiny waist, Ling Xiao bowed his head and looked at him, “Tian Xiu made a cough suppressant pill for you first. Once we arrived here, you were also given a magic pill to stop your muscle spasms, it seemed to ease your breathing.”

You XiaoMo closed his eyes and soaked in the man’s presence, thinking of another question in mind, he softly asked, “What did you mean when you said commissioned?”

Ling Xiao adjusted You XiaoMo further into his lap and explained, “There isn’t a cure-all pill for your flu, treating your ailments one by one will be too taxing for your body. So coming here is to have the Mage Division Union, Trade Unions and Cang Alliance's high-level mages attempt to make one cover them all.”

After he had listened, You XiaoMo finally understood something, as to why whoever spoke earlier to Ling Xiao mentioned a price.

To make a special user created pill from scratch, having employed so many establishments and their mages, and knowing Ling Xiao’s requirements were probably also in the goods to high-quality level, together all added up will be nothing short of millions upon millions of spirit gems.

Luckily, over the years they’ve accumulated a decent sized nest egg. If it still is not enough, You XiaoMo can just ask them to issue an IOU and pay them back later. They should know a mage of his level is good enough credit. Plus, at the end of the day, who’s brave enough to make The Supreme Ling Xiao angry? He wasn’t worried.

The room soon fell into a comfortable quiet time.

“I’m sorry.”

You XiaoMo’s soft whisper of a voice broke the room’s enveloping silence.

Ling Xiao’s eyebrows lifted in surprise, looked down at him and curiously asked, “What are you sorry for?”

You XiaoMo buried his face in Ling Xiao’s chest, hiding away the shame, in a muffled voice said, “For being so much of a burden.”

Ling Xiao looked confused for a moment, then in slight astonishment, shook his head back and forth. Then moved to take a burrowed You XiaoMo out from of his chest, he stretched him out so they could be face to face.

When his wife still refused to look up at him, Ling Xiao mercilessly said, “If you really believe that, then your IQ did drop to the negative three digits after all.”

A guilty You XiaoMo suddenly froze. Again with the attack on his IQ. Fortunately, he’s long been immune and used to it, but that said, he absolutely refuses to drop any lower. He’s already negative two! He can only go up, not down…

You XiaoMo finally bit the bullet and willed himself to look up at Ling Xiao’s expectant eyes.

Ling Xiao gave him an extremely gentle smile, one as if he’s not the wolf catching the sheep that he is, in a teasing tone said, “Why is my wife so stupid? Huh? Saying such stupid things, it’s going to rub off on me if you keep this up.”

Finished speaking, Ling Xiao pressed his finger and thumb together and lightly flick You XiaoMo on the head.

You XiaoMo shut his eyes against the hit, having made a silent exclamation before quickly and pitifully surrendering, “Okay, I get it. I take it back. I’m sorry.”

Even while sick this guy bullies him!

Satisfied, Ling Xiao’s eyes gave off a triumph and domineering look of victory.

You XiaoMo’s neck shrank reflexively before crawling back into the man’s arms for forgiveness.

Ling Xiao let out a low laughter from his chest, his wife is always so stupid and yet amusing.

The rest of the day and night passed by uneventful.

You XiaoMo thoroughly enjoyed the relief he felt from those two magic pills. He still had that itching feeling that egged him to want to cough, but once he did, it didn’t trigger a bout of attacks like previously. He also still had a fever but with regular cool compresses, it was being maintained for the time.

You XiaoMo used this time to recoup his strength and sleep. Occasionally in between, asking for water to soothe his sore throat and talking with Ling Xiao. The man hasn’t once seemed to leave his side.

By the You XiaoMo’s third day of being awake at their hotel suite, they finally heard the news.

The time was when Ling Xiao was helping You XiaoMo take a bath to keep his fever maintained.

You XiaoMo was currently being washed, as well as every now and again being playfully fondled. Ling Xiao would innocently pretend like it was an accident, yet would just do it again with that sly crafty smile on his handsome face.

Ling Xiao was quite enjoying the kitten glower he was being given, those angry puffed up pink stained cheeks of his were especially cute. When paired with that signature pout of his wife’s, Ling Xiao wanted to lean forward and kiss those lips so badly.

You XiaoMo was shivering in the cool tub when he saw Ling Xiao’s face change and look toward the door of the outer room. Just when he was about to ask what it was, Ling Xiao readily offered and faintly said, “Someone’s here.”

Then looking down at him, Ling Xiao gazed at his face deeply, as if looking for something before he asked, “Will you be okay for a minute?”

You XiaoMo readily nodded.

Although he doesn’t feel a hundred percent or anything, with the magic pills temporarily suppressing his symptoms, he feels a lot better than a few days ago.

When Ling Xiao got up and was near the door, he paused for a moment and looked back at him.

“I’ll be fine, go on. I’m not going anywhere.” You XiaoMo reassuringly said, using as much of an assertive tone he could muster.

Ling Xiao looked him up and down, then finally deciding to believe him, he swiftly left the room.

When You XiaoMo watched him leave the room, he was half tempted to use his soul power to eavesdrop on their conversation. Then after thinking it over, he decided it wasn’t necessary as Ling Xiao would tell him when asked. So, he instead closed his eyes and leaned back against the tub, resting his mind and body.

You XiaoMo had recently given himself a pep talk as to how to get well faster. He’s going to not sweat the small things and let the stress hinder his recovery. Instead, he just going to accept what he can do and take the small victories. Just like cultivating, a clear mind will take you lengths.

It wasn’t even five minutes later that You XiaoMo heard the crack of the door. A familiar presence then walked in from behind the screen that shielded the tub.

Ling Xiao had a neutral expression on his face. He bent over wordlessly as he took You XiaoMo out of the tub, settling him down on a stool before he started to dry him off.

You XiaoMo just passively sat there, he watched Ling Xiao carefully as he ventured to gently ask, “Everything okay?”

Ling Xiao had already started to dress You XiaoMo into his sleeping clothes, lazily replied, “Everything is fine, just some setbacks. We still have a couple of options left in play.”

You XiaoMo pondered for a moment before understanding, then solemnly asked, “So they failed?”

“Out of the eight I employed, five did. Even if the medicine wears off, I still have another dose prepared.” Ling Xiao said confidently, having finished dressing him and already carrying him toward the bed.

Before they made it to the bed, You XiaoMo caught Ling Xiao’s arm, hastily said, “I want to sit with you at the table.”

Ling Xiao bowed his head, “You sure?”

“Yes.” You XiaoMo said excitedly, eyes lighting up.

He’s missed the feeling of being normal and sitting across Ling Xiao. After doing nothing but laying down and resting, a change of pace will lift his spirits.

The tea table was originally in the outer room but Ling Xiao had long moved it to the inner room. It was currently placed closely near the bed where a resting You XiaoMo usually was.

After being released into his chair, You XiaoMo suppressed a cough into his hand. Then eagerly reached for the pitcher of water and shakily poured himself a cup of water. He’s been so thirsty lately he’s not sure why, it was probably a possible side effect.

Ling Xiao quickly grabbed the pitcher, stopping him before he was about to spill it, with an elegant smile on his face, smoothly advised, “Calm down.”

Ling Xiao sat across his little wife, amusement shined in his deep eyes as he watches him drink as if a guppy out of the water.

When finished drinking, You XiaoMo coughed again before looking at him with a hopeful expression, “I want something to eat. Can we order something light?”

“Sure.” Ling Xiao replied easily, standing up and getting ready to leave.

Although before he left, he gave You XiaoMo a sounding stone, saying to call if he’s not back and he needs him. You XiaoMo thought he was being a tad overly cautious, but still, nevertheless, he agreed.

After Ling Xiao left, You XiaoMo thought the room felt strangely empty and quiet. Bored, he started to drum his fingers across the table, making a rhythmic sound to fill the void.

He vaguely wondered what his Dad was up to. No doubt got notice of his condition by now. The last he was told, he was in Nan Lu with Tian Gui doing their yearly retraining of keeping the order in the Red Blood Family. Knowing him, he probably wanted to run straight back but Ling Xiao convinced him not too. As always, Boss so strong!

Ling Xiao had informed him his Happy House friends were asking about him, but because he needed to save his strength, Ling Xiao had turned them away from visiting.

In only less than ten minutes Ling Xiao soon returned, this time holding a tray of steaming food.

When placed down on the table, You XiaoMo looked on with hungry eyes, it smelled so good! It was a vegetable and beef soup, buttery buns and a plate of spirit fruit. He eagerly grabbed a spoon, hastily giving Ling Xiao his thanks before digging in.

Although he was hungry and it smelled so good, You XiaoMo filled up with barely a quarter of the food on the plate.

Ling Xiao looked at him doubtfully, “You done?”

Looking thoughtful, You XiaoMo’s actions had a stagnation to them, tired arms rested on the table, he finally nodded in the affirmative.

“Then that’s enough fun for today. Time for bed.” Ling Xiao walked over and picked him up, speaking in a no room for discussion tone.

You XiaoMo doesn’t object, he does feel tired, and when his head touches to the pillow, he’s already asleep.

The next day, You XiaoMo woke up to the burning in his chest increasing. He grabbed his chest looking for Ling Xiao, he wanted water.

Moments later, Ling Xiao entered the room with a tense-looking face. You XiaoMo figured more not-so-good news had come while he was asleep.

Ling Xiao immediately saw him awake, his lips slowly curled up at the corners as he said, “Morning. Want water?” He’s already used to You XiaoMo’s requests.

You XiaoMo nodded, hopeful eyes sparkled at him.

As he struggled to lift himself up into a sitting position, Ling Xiao had already sat down on the bed next to him and handed him a cup.

You XiaoMo happily accepted the drink, sighing with content at the coolness sliding down his throat.

When he was finished drinking, You XiaoMo raised his eyes to look at Ling Xiao, “I feel the burning is increasing. I think the effects are starting to wear off.”

Upon hearing that, Ling Xiao’s eyes become deeper, immense black unfathomable pools swirled with something You XiaoMo couldn’t pinpoint. Before he could speak and ask, the man’s hand was on his head, fingers brushing through his hair.

Ling Xiao’s voice held a confident tone as he lazily said, “We just need to hold off a couple of more days. Until then, we’ll hopefully have better news.”

The rest of the day went pretty much their usual, You XiaoMo would sleep more and in between would pull Ling Xiao down to be his pillow.

This day You XiaoMo even nibbled sparingly on slices of spirit fruit. The taste of spirit fruit he’s always quite enjoyed, but You XiaoMo found the burst of juiciness even helped quench his thirsty feeling. Plus, he’s not sure if it’s just a placebo effect or not, but he felt like he got bursts of energy at the same time.

Around six o’clock in the afternoon, You XiaoMo was flushed with fever as he coughed into Ling Xiao’s broad chest, panting to catch his breath. After he calmed down enough, You XiaoMo lifted his tired head and curiously asked, “Will you get me something to read?”

Ling Xiao was still idly stroking You XiaoMo’s back, he paused in his actions, bowing his head to look at him, he lightly mocked him, “Bored, are we?”

You XiaoMo shyly buried his cheek into Ling Xiao’s robes, spoke with a slightly muffled voice, “Feels so weird not being productive. I just want to do something more than lay in bed.”

“You are being productive, your job is to recover, but yes, I will get you something to read. It will have to wait until tomorrow though, as it’s already getting late. Does my dear Lady have any requests?” Ling Xiao languidly spits out those words, his deep and smooth voice had such a magnetic charm to it, making the listener can’t help but be pulled in.

You XiaoMo thought about it for a moment then replied, “Something non-textbook. Fiction stories.”

Ling Xiao nodded his confirmation of the request, then unexpectedly and suddenly sighed deeply.

Curiously looking at him, You XiaoMo couldn’t help but ask, “What?”

Ling Xiao’s handsome face suddenly was one of over exaggerated regret, in a wistful tone said, “If it was any other time, I’d say I’ll give you something to do in bed.” When he finished speaking, Ling Xiao’s face had an awe-inspiring-evil wicked smile across it, blinding the room and You XiaoMo’s eyes.

You XiaoMo couldn’t stop the silly smile that slapped itself on his face. This guy. Really!

In the darkness of early morning hours, a splash of water rang loudly in the heavy silence.

At three o’clock in the morning, an overheated You XiaoMo was being given another bath. Taking hot and short breaths as he was dozing in and out. He used Ling Xiao’s arm as a pillow while water was being poured over him periodically.

You XiaoMo coughed himself awake and looked around, the night luminescent pearl only dimly lit the room so he struggled to see, in a confused voice said, “Ling Xiao?…”

“Yes, my wife, I’m right here.” Ling Xiao’s voice cut through the darkness into You XiaoMo’s ears.

Realizing it was Ling Xiao’s arm he was on, You XiaoMo rubbed his face against it intimately and sluggishly whispered, “Tired…”

“I know.” Ling Xiao softly said, voice sounding extremely gentle.

Words fallen, You XiaoMo is already back to dreamland.

By the time noon rolled around, Ling Xiao was fighting an internal battle with himself.

He was stuck between two decisions as his wife’s condition was once again rapidly decreasing. Ling Xiao could give him the magic pills again to temporarily stave off his ailments. Although, if and once the one-for-all pill was done, he’d have to wait until those left his system before administering. His wife was already so weakened, it could possibly worsen his condition to continuously make him work to absorb the magic pills. The sooner they had the one-for-all magic pill, the less stress his body will be put under and recover faster.

“Ling Xiao…”

Having heard his wife’s voice, Ling Xiao returned to his senses. His gaze shifted to the small and slender body on the bed, blankets were being weakly kicked about as he struggled to lift his arms up and sit.

Ling Xiao quickly made his way over to him, having lifted him up into a comfortable sitting position, he then replied, “Yes?”

You XiaoMo licked his dry lips, tired gaze lifting up to look at him, in a weak like voice asked, “Are you still going to get the books today?”

Ling Xiao froze for a moment, he honestly didn’t want to. With his condition as such, he didn’t want another incident like what happened at the palace. That said, he did previously agree and if he says no, his wife will surely be disappointed.

You XiaoMo noticed his pause, his face instantly painted with worry and questioning. He didn’t have time to ask him though, as Ling Xiao had already naturally recovered, giving him a fresh smile as he answered, “Of course.”

Seeing his confused and worried expression, Ling Xiao leaned forward and quickly gave You XiaoMo a kiss on the lips, maneuvering them so he was held snugly in his arms. Falling to the bed together, they comfortably embraced each other tightly as the sun bathed their skin leisurely.

When You XiaoMo woke up from their short nap, he requested a plate of spirit fruit. Ling Xiao offered to go downstairs and get it for him, taking this as an opportunity to leave the room and set things up.

As Ling Xiao made his way to the kitchen, he found one of the not-so-busy hired help and gave the young man a sizable offer to run him an errand.

The youth wasn’t slow, as it wasn’t even two hours before their suite’s door was knocked, and Ling Xiao was handed the predetermined magic bag.

After having checked the contents, Ling Xiao gave the remaining amount of his generous sized payment. The hired youth’s face was lit up like the sky as he ran off, probably never having earned such an amount of crystals at one time.

You XiaoMo was currently propped up with pillows surrounding him, sitting against the backboard of the bed, upon seeing Ling Xiao walk in his tired face lit up with pure joy.

The corners of Ling Xiao’s lifted up as he sat down beside him, he grabbed and turned over You XiaoMo’s palm, placing the magic bag gently onto it.

Ling Xiao casually put his hand on You XiaoMo’s rested thigh, gently urged him, “Look inside.”

You XiaoMo’s face was painted with surprise as he was given the magic bag, but when told to look inside, he was instantly filled with a curious excitement. Without wasting a second, he pulled the strings at the top, loosening the edges of the bag. Once opened, You XiaoMo’s face was frozen in place momentarily before his sparkling bright eyes were staring at the man across from him.

“W-what, when? There is so many!” You XiaoMo softly exclaimed, his cheeks were tinting with a rosy color, this time it was from excitement instead of fever. How did he pull this off? He was been pretty sure Ling Xiao hadn’t left his side for more than fifteen minutes today.

Ling Xiao’s eyes had turned into slits as he smiled, boastfully said, “Do you expect any less from the great me? As your husband, I have this conscientiousness.”

Taking a book out of the bag, Ling Xiao added leisurely, “I had someone run and get it. There should be plenty to keep my wife out of boredom.”

You XiaoMo looked inside the magic bag on his lap, that’s an understatement.

Whoever Ling Xiao got to fetch these books got a whole shelf and more. Even though he first requested non-textbooks, there were a few thrown in, as well as history and magic herb atlases mixed in. You XiaoMo had plenty of variety to choose and read from.

Picking up a book, You XiaoMo stroked the cover. He was feeling so touched, his man has gone above and beyond taking care of him, he’s not sure how he got so lucky.

You XiaoMo hid his face behind his hair, in a small voice blushingly said, “Thank you.”

Ling Xiao saw his blushing manner. With a mischievous smile upon his face, he reached out a hand to touch and provoke up the small chin, in a dangerously low and husky voice, he said, “ Ah, my wife doesn’t have to worry about anything. After you get well and better, I’ll reclaim your gratitude in full.”

After he spoke, Ling Xiao licked the edges of his mouth in a suggestive and hungry lustful manner.

You XiaoMo’s eyes widen as he felt his body stiffen unconsciously. That sexy low voice with such lewd actions, he had to quiet down that tingling inside his body at seeing Ling Xiao’s face.

Ling Xiao was not disappointed at watching his wife’s reaction, the smile on his devilish face widening even farther.

Wanting to distract himself from the topic, and onto less dangerous territory, You XiaoMo quickly zeroed in on his plate of spirit fruit at his side. Reaching out a hand, he grabbed one of the few slices he left and started to nibble on it.

Noticing Ling Xiao was still watching him, You XiaoMo innocently reached for another and held it up to him, earnestly asking, “Want one?”

Even though they’ve been ordering a lot of fruit, Ling Xiao has barely touched it, instead offering it all to You XiaoMo.

Ling Xiao opened his mouth and You XiaoMo proceeded to naturally feed it to him.

As soon as he did though, You XiaoMo felt like he didn’t do a good job at distracting himself. Watching those evil lips that have roamed him so many times, linger on his fingers just for a second, sent shivers down his spine.

Seconds later, You XiaoMo didn’t have to worry much longer at distracting himself, as his stuttering breaths slipped into a hard coughing fit that did that for him.

You XiaoMo abruptly released his hold on his own fruit slice as it fell to the bed. Crouching over on reflex while his body wracked violently with spasms.

Ling Xiao pushed him to lean back against his pillows once more, soothingly stroking his arm, tried to coach him, “Breathe slowly.”

You XiaoMo was taking wheezing breaths in, his eyes teared up with the struggle to obey. When his mind was going dizzy, he felt Ling Xiao’s hands hold his face.

“Lady, focus on me. Look at me and only concentrate on that. Follow my voice.” Ling Xiao said unhurriedly, his voice as gentle jade, extremely pleasant to the ear.

With teary eyes, You XiaoMo did as he was asked. It’s slow at first, and when his eyes started to droop again Ling Xiao would just repeat his words and coax his attention back to him.
“No, look at me. Breathe, there you go. Very good.”

Finally, after an excruciatingly long time, when really it was only a couple of minutes. You XiaoMo blinked away the moisture filling his vision, two small tear tracks fell as his view cleared to see Ling Xiao’s face in front of him.

Ling Xiao’s face was full of taut nerves and worry, but once he saw You XiaoMo gaze start to regain focus and clear, it gave way to a happy smile.

“Lady, you are now to rest.” Ling Xiao promptly ordered him, brushing the tear trails off his puffy cheeks before forcefully tucking him into the bed, not giving him a chance to counter.

You XiaoMo refused to sleep alone though, in a reluctant manner grabbed the man’s hand, in a pitiful tone, he poutingly said, “No, don’t go…”

With each of those fits, You XiaoMo always felt like he couldn’t breathe, it left him scared and nervous.

Ling Xiao didn’t need much convincing as he quickly caved in, laying down with him yet again.

When You XiaoMo woke up again, his head was covered with a cold compress and Ling Xiao was no longer in bed with him. Shifting his drowsy gaze, he noticed the man was standing with his back to him facing the table.

His tall slender figure was vaguely visible under the luxurious robe, revealing the contours of his strong muscles. Although he was still kind of out of it, You XiaoMo could tell his by his posture his back was so tense and stiff that it must be painful.

Looking on, You XiaoMo just watched silently, as guilt and worry etched in his heart for his man. He then noticed the paper held tightly within the man’s palm, but at this distance, he wasn’t able to tell what was written on it.

Although he had tried to be quiet and not bother him, You XiaoMo’s raspy and wheezing breaths must have alerted the man.

Ling Xiao turned around at hearing his wife, looked down to see the big and earnest eyes staring up at him. He quickly sent the paper in his hands away to his dimension, with a smile in his eyes, pleasantly said, “Lady.”

You XiaoMo just lifted up his weak and shaky arms, a silent request and plea to the man.

Ling Xiao didn’t need to be asked twice, he slowly climbed into the bed and placed his arm under his wife’s head and over his waist, pulling their bodies closely together in a tight embrace.

As they laid in each other’s presence, the room was encased in a comfortable quiet time.

You XiaoMo’s voice that was painted with worry, broke the silence, “Everything okay?”

Ling Xiao gently squeezed his wife’s waist, in a dull tone, indifferently said, “More failed, although most have already been reattempting. I was even told one mage is very close to possibly finishing. East Island’s Ancient Horse Tribe Saint Summer also sent news, she heard of our request. She claims she could successfully procure one for us but has conditions.”

You XiaoMo’s mind that was already fuzzy, struggled with the gears turning, with a confused voice said, “What conditions? Do you think she already has one completed, or else, why would she even send news?”

In You XiaoMo’s opinion, Ancient Horse Tribe’s Saint Summer, although is a powerful high level mage, is a very cutthroat person. Definitely not someone so easily trusted.

Ling Xiao’s eyes looked deep as he stared into nothingness, thoughtfully answered, “It’s a strong possibility, she also could be bluffing.”

You XiaoMo coughed a few times and when he calmed down, realized Ling Xiao never answered him, he gently tapped the man’s chest, in a whispery voice said, “You never answered my question.”

Ling Xiao was still continuing to soothingly stroke You XiaoMo’s back, in a casual tone, replied to him, “She wants three years worth of my protection of her tribe.”

You XiaoMo was so startled, he choked on his breath to where Ling Xiao had to quickly switch to patting him on the back to alleviate his stress.

You XiaoMo with a teary voice, jerkily asked, “You’re not-not really-y thinking of accepting are you?”

To do such a thing, for such a horrible person, You XiaoMo couldn’t let his man be wrapped up in an obligation like that for his sake. He won’t let him!

Ling Xiao looked down at him, with a hint of contempt in his eyes, his voice was laced with vague disdain, confidently saying, “Do you think she can tell The Supreme what to do? If all else fails, I’ll just threaten to kill her, or just plain kill her.”

Ling Xiao’s smile became quite bloodthirsty evil at the end of his words, he doesn't like his wife being a pawn in anyone’s schemes.

The next day tested Ling Xiao’s patience.

You XiaoMo struggled to keep steady breaths as his coughing bouts increased in strength. No longer could he eat, drink or sit up on his own.

Even so, much too Ling Xiao’s amazement, You XiaoMo kept a positive outlook. His wife as always, surprising him, this fact hasn’t changed. One of his strengths were: you knock him down, he just keeps getting back up. That small smile on his wife’s face would always lift Ling Xiao’s spirits but also made his heartache.

When it was got very bad, Ling Xiao set up a small barrier around the bathing area. Placing small flames over spirit water and regular water jars, steaming the air with highly concentrated moisture and aura. To make sure You XiaoMo wouldn’t overheat they kept him in the tub with cold water.

The effect was very gratifying, as You XiaoMo’s breathing instantly eased up quite a bit. The water lapped at his white and tender skin and his face started to relax as he rested in the water leisurely.

You XiaoMo was so happy at being able to breathe easier, he mustered the energy and bravery to playfully flick water at Ling Xiao.

The man looked at him with a raised eyebrow, in a serious tone, questioned him, “Do you really want to do that?”

You XiaoMo gave the man a weak and shaky grin in reply.

Ling Xiao leaned over and was about to retaliate when he looked at the door, the knock was heard moments later.

You XiaoMo interjected before the man could ask, strengthening his voice to assure confidence, reassuringly said, “I’ll be fine, go ahead.”

Ling Xiao turned back to glance at him. He deeply scanned his face, and after a moment of confirmation, he believed in his words enough to confidently leave the room.

When You XiaoMo heard the door click he was getting tired, already pushing the effort to keep his eyes open as long as possible. Consoling himself that he just needed to stay awake long enough for Ling Xiao to return at least. After two minutes, every second was becoming longer than the last as his head started to bob up and down. When the four minute mark hit, the man didn’t leave You XiaoMo waiting any longer.

The white flash of a robe whilst passed him, the blur lifted up his damp face and gave him a bruisingly passionate kiss. It wasn’t deep but it was meaningful. You XiaoMo felt reawakened as his heart burst at the love through the kiss.

Ling Xiao soon released the soft small lips. He kept it brief, not wanting to cut off his oxygen for too long. Looking into his wife’s big and confused beautiful eyes, Ling Xiao leaned forward to press their foreheads together, his voice was filled with joy as he whispered, “Lady, they did it.”

You XiaoMo’s tired eyes lit up with excitement, reaching out a weak hand to hold and squeeze against Ling Xiao’s, his smile was just as big as the one across from him.

One of the mages had managed to successfully make the one-for-all cure, although it was only a level nine magic pill. With so many failures and limited materials at reach, they could only successfully create one at that level. Any higher and the risk of continued failure will rise and Ling Xiao’s orders were urgently being sent out.

The only problem with the good news was the mage wasn’t in Zhongtian, so they had to wait for him to travel here.

The two of them didn’t let it hinder their good moods though.

With the positive news, You XiaoMo’s energy levels rose enough to finally drink some water.

With their cultivation, one doesn’t need to repair the internal organs with substance for many months, but even so, the replenishment was a sign of improvement and helped the process of his recovery.

The happy day turned into a night that was very long for both of them.

You XiaoMo’s condition remained the same if not worse. His physical strength was already in a weakened state, but now he could barely lift his head off the pillow. Paired with his burning breaths, he was constantly wanting to drink, but with every cool liquid that touched his stomach, he wanted to throw it up.

When the stars were high in the sky and the nightlife of the city was in full swing, You XiaoMo and Ling Xiao were once again in the bathing enchantment.

You XiaoMo sighed into the moist air, breathing in the calming atmosphere, after a few moments he said in wistful regret, “I haven’t got... to r-read those books…”

Ling Xiao’s eyes looked at him worriedly, in a forceful tone stated, “You can later.”

You XiaoMo tilted his head to a different position against the tub, in a sad voice between congested breaths said, “I mean… my eyes are too…. tired to focus. I-I can... barely stare at one….one spot for more than a f-few seconds….”

Ling Xiao looked down at him with a slight smile, in a smooth as jade tone, lazily said, “If you want I can read to you.” He then continued in a playful tone, “Of course, you can wait a couple of days when you’re better if that’s not good enough.”

You XiaoMo giggled in response, “I-I guess… you will do.”

Ling Xiao laughed, leaning forward to rub his head gently, “Oh, so generous my wife. Your husband will make valiant efforts.”

After a few more minutes had passed, Ling Xiao reached in and fished him out of the tub. Placing him down in the chair, he held him tightly as he supported him and quickly dried him.

You XiaoMo was powerlessly leaning his head against the man’s chest, taking comfort in his familiar scent, it was full of male maturity and pheromones with something so uniquely him.

“Thirsty.” You XiaoMo whispered, as his arms were being gently put through his nightshirt.

Ling Xiao placed You XiaoMo’s arms around his neck, “Okay. Hold on tight.” Feeling his arms squeeze, he then gently raised him from the chair enough to lift his pants the rest of the way up. Afterwards, moved to scoop him up in his arms and headed back towards their bed.

After You XiaoMo was laid down on the bed, he watched as Ling Xiao promptly went to get a cup of water. He tried to kick his toes around to shuffle under the warm blankets, but his legs refused to obey him and he ended up just giving up with a huff. By the time he made the noise, Ling Xiao had already returned to his side, and as if a telepathic wave linked up, he picked up the blankets for him and covered him up.

You XiaoMo’s eyes shined with appreciation and admiration at his man, fingers happily intertwining into the fabric. The next moment he was supported into a sitting position, he felt Ling Xiao’s strong arm stay wrapped behind his back to keep him steady.

He reached for the cup with wobbly arms, when his fingers touched and cradled the cup, he was surprised to notice it was only half filled, thus lighter than usual. Although it was lighter, Ling Xiao’s fingers never left the cup, holding it steady for him as he lifted it to his lips.

You XiaoMo took small gentle sips, enjoying the feel on his tongue and in his mouth before testingly swallowing it. Seeing as he didn’t immediately feel sick, he kept taking a few more sips. When his arms were giving out and the cup started to slowly droop lower and lower, ultimately Ling Xiao took back control over it, raising it up to keep its place at his lips.

Seeing his eyes rapidly blink away sleep, and pause in his drinking, Ling Xiao asked, “Done?”

“I want-want more.” You XiaoMo’s tired and sluggish voice replied.

Ling Xiao removed the cup, placing it beside the bed, “Later. Let’s lay down.”

You XiaoMo was once again was being laid down on the bed, this time he refused to close his eyes till Ling Xiao was beside him. When he climbed into the bed, You XiaoMo’s eyes showed joy, happily being hugged and tucked into him, releasing a content sigh as he reached across his broad chest to hold him.

The rest of the night went to their now usual. You XiaoMo would wake up sporadically and Ling Xiao would either be already awake or quickly woke up from a light sleep to be with him.

The next day, by the time the door was knocked on, it was already to Ling Xiao’s limit of patience.

His wife was already struggling without the magic pills in his system, he didn’t want him to wait another day.

Ling Xiao had set up a new barrier surrounding the bed area, once again steaming highly concentrated spirit water aura into it. This time it was just the aura, as You XiaoMo had already taken so many baths he started to prune. That was enough though, as Ling Xiao has long noticed the aura has a calming effect, it was able to at least help soothe his wife’s breathing.

Ling Xiao opened the door and without much of any greeting, the mage and his escorts were let into the outer room.

The mage had a sense of awareness to know Ling Xiao had waited long enough and didn’t delay. In an offering style manner readily handed over the exquisite jade bottle to Ling Xiao.

Ling Xiao took the bottle in hand, looking inside at the small blue with red spots magic pill. The quality was in peak goods and high-grade.

The mage seeing Ling Xiao not displeased with a not perfect product internally sighed in relief. Being near The Supreme for the first time was overwhelming and a lot of pressure. Even though this Supreme has never been malevolent toward the people of the Tong Tian Continent, the ancient stories tell enough to leave the people in fear of his power.

“My Lord, as the level is a bit weaker, it should take at least a week to fully take effect. If he can successfully cultivate it, the time frame should be shorter. If has difficulties...then longer, I’m afraid.” The man willingly gave Ling Xiao the information.

Ling Xiao nodded as he replied with gratitude, “I understand. Thank you for your efforts.”

With that, the group didn’t overstay their welcome and excused themselves from the room.

Ling Xiao stood there for a moment longer, gripped the bottle tightly in his hand before turning around toward the inner room, his wife was waiting for him.

Ling Xiao could barely contain his excitement as he entered the room. You XiaoMo was still sleeping as he approached the bed. Opening the cork and dropping the magic pill into his hand, Ling Xiao lifted and supported You XiaoMo into his arms.

“My dear wife, it’s time to wake up.” Ling Xiao radiantly said, softly coaxing him awake.

You XiaoMo opened his eyes, eyelashes fluttered against delicate and fair cheeks, trying to focus and blink away the haze of sleep.

Ling Xiao had a smile in his eyes as he instructed him, “Open your mouth.”

You XiaoMo was slightly confused, but still obediently obeyed and opened his mouth for him.

Ling Xiao raised his arm and You XiaoMo soon felt something enter his mouth and land on his tongue. Surprise flitted across his flushed face, is this what he thought it was? Judging by Ling Xiao’s body language, that gave You XiaoMo plenty of the answer he needed, he then eagerly swallowed the pill into his tummy.

Instantly there was a mix of energy released into his system, You XiaoMo felt his whole body on the inside start to slowly warm as it hit his meridians.

You XiaoMo was so happy, locking eyes with Ling Xiao, he lifted his tired and quivering arms to circle around his neck. Ling Xiao immediately knew what he wanted, reaching out a hand to hold his tender face, he leaned forward the rest of the way to meet his eager little lips.

Just like a butterfly, the kiss was fluttering and delicate, and yet at the same time, was full of bursting emotions, they were soaring.

When his lips were released, You XiaoMo couldn’t accept just one, he was too ecstatic. He took a few stuttering few breaths before he bluntly met Ling Xiao’s lips once again, demanding another.

Ling Xiao’s smirked against his kiss, as a qualified perfect husband, he, of course, is willing to fulfill any of his wife’s needs.

They kissed a few more times before Ling Xiao cut him off. There is only so much heat a man can take, as well as You XiaoMo needed to focus on recovering and not over exhausting himself right now.

With all the excitement, You XiaoMo wanted to stay awake, but instead just ended up tiring him out even more, and soon he was once again dozing off under the enchantment barrier. Ling Xiao didn’t know if it was his imagination or not, but to his eyes, You XiaoMo’s cheeks seemed to look less pale already.

The rest of the afternoon, You XiaoMo’s coughing attacks came in like normal. He’d wake up and struggle to breathe before Ling Xiao would help him back to sleep. Although this time, after six hours of taking the magic pill, the time between attacks would lengthen by a few minutes each time.

It wasn’t an amazing improvement, but it was a sign that the pill was taking effect.

When twelve hours passed and it was time for Ling Xiao to light new jars, he noticed the tension on You XiaoMo’s face had eased a lot as he was sleeping much more peaceful.

By twenty-four hours his attacks were spaced more than an hour apart, didn’t sound like much, but they were very much relieved, as it gave You XiaoMo more strength to rest.

On the third day, You XiaoMo’s bouts were now more than three hours apart. At those moments, You XiaoMo felt like he was being given a holiday pass. Finally tired of being in bed, he wanted to make use of that time to do something. Turning his head toward Ling Xiao at the tea table, he watched as the man was elegantly drinking his hot tea, he thought for a moment before an idea came to him.

“Ling Xiao, is there a balcony or outdoor patio to our room?” You XiaoMo’s sleep covered voice asked.

Ling Xiao finished his sip before eyes shifted to him and answered, “Yes, a small one. It’s connected to the outer room.”

At hearing that, You XiaoMo’s eyes lit up with hopeful excitement, biting his lip in a shy manner, he forced the wording as he ventured to ask, “Will you take me to it? I want a change of scenery, and it’s felt like weeks since I’ve felt fresh air.”

Ling Xiao gave him a piercing stare, in a voice laced with contempt, “You know you still have a fever. You’re just starting to feel better, do you want to reverse it all?”

Knowing he was now fighting an uphill battle, You XiaoMo dropped his gaze to stare at the bed sheets, using his hair to cover his face, a pitiful tone, sadly said, “It doesn’t have to be long and I can be in your arms for warmth if need. When you say it’s been enough, I won’t fight you on it.”

Ling Xiao narrowed his eyes at him, after a long moment, he got up and walked to the occupant on the bed, reaching out he pinched the puffy clouds of You XiaoMo’s cheeks saying, “Fine, but you must be obedient.”

You XiaoMo raised his eyes that finally had a sparkle to it, readily nodded to his requirements. At the same time he internally giggled, it seemed a small sense of crisis had paid off.

A few minutes later, You XiaoMo was no longer in his thin sleeping garments, but instead heavily bundled up in his day clothes. To ensure he could even possibly stay out longer, You XiaoMo quickly grabbed a blanket off the edge of the bed before he was being lifted up and carried by Ling Xiao.

He would’ve loved to walk on his own, but seeing as how he’s barely been able to sit up on his own strength, he has no option but to be held.

As they walked into the outer room, You XiaoMo realized this was his first time seeing it.

It was a very spacious and luxurious room, a large sitting area with plenty of furniture, even an area for dining. When paired with the large inner room they’ve been cooped up in for the last week, You XiaoMo felt like they’ve really splurged on the living accommodations.

The sun kissed his white fair skin as if a welcoming, and You XiaoMo immediately felt the difference in the air when they crossed the threshold to the balcony patio.

It wasn’t as cold outside like he thought it would be, it was still a bit nippy on his feverish skin but he was able to block it out of his mind. As You XiaoMo was to busy joyously taking in the fresh air as it entered his lungs unabated.

Seeing his little wife so happy and excited, Ling Xiao couldn’t suppress the smile that escaped his lips. Compared to his previous manner and condition, he’d much rather see this expression on his wife’s face anytime.

Below their room, the location was lively and packed with people, as the hotel Ling Xiao picked was in one of the busiest areas of Zhongtian. Although the city was awake and loud, it wasn’t so intense as to disturb or annoying them, on the contrary, it gave You XiaoMo a sense of awareness.

Beautiful and ornate stores lined the streets on each side, they were different arrays of colors and shape, trees and lights embellished buildings, it was all very sparkling and appealing.

Their patio balcony had a chair as well as a love style couch to sit on. The railings that gated them off were covered with a green plant vine that twirled and twined around the bars, there were vague signs of it soon to bloom flowers.

Ling Xiao sat them in the love seat, placing You XiaoMo in the spot with the best view of the street below, draping his arm around his shoulders comfortably.

You XiaoMo hurriedly pulled up the blanket around himself, as well as even cheekily throwing some on top of Ling Xiao, tucking them both in.

You XiaoMo leaned into the warmth of Ling Xiao’s side, head resting against a broad shoulder, sighing with content as he got comfortable.

After a few minutes of relaxing, his curious big eyes watched every little thing that happened down below on the streets. You XiaoMo entertained himself with it, as he felt like he was watching some type of tv show of the busy lives of Tong Tian Continent residents.

When a large build of a guy with an ugly mustache, rudely pushed aside a nice couple in his way before accidentally walking into a sign pole, You XiaoMo couldn’t hold the crack of laughter that bubbled out of him.

Pure unadulterated laughter sang in Ling Xiao’s ears, he bowed his head as he lazily gazed at his wife’s expressions. When he had calmed down enough, Ling Xiao’s deep voice asked curiously, “What’s so funny, huh?”

You XiaoMo suppressed the urge to cough, hand covering up the action, before smiling up at the man and explaining.

Ling Xiao had a smile in his eyes, wistfully said, “Ah, that is too bad, wish I could’ve seen it.”

Ling Xiao’s face then turned into a mischievous one, one with an evil-like-aura surrounding him, he watched his wife’s face with keen interest while he said, “Should I knock someone over so I can watch it this time?”

You XiaoMo’s eyes went wide as he was momentarily speechless. At the same time though, he felt he shouldn’t be surprised by now, his man has always been quite bad.

You XiaoMo gave him sly smile, nonchalantly said, “No need. I’m sure there will be another. Patience.”

They stayed together like this a while longer. Each just relaxing in each other’s presence and the breeze on their skin.

“Do you think The Qui Team and Dad are doing alright?” You XiaoMo’s tired voice spoke in the afternoon air, even though it was barely noticeable, it was laced with guilt.

Ling Xiao had a lazy posture, bathed in the drowsy rays of the sun exuded his elegant noble atmosphere in magnitude, in a melodic relaxed tone, “They’re fine. They are capable of taking care of themselves.”

You XiaoMo lifted the blanket closer to his mouth. He knew that, he knows that they are all very much powerful individuals, he would pity the lost soul who picked a fight with them. Although that wasn’t what he meant completely when he had asked, in the end, he decided to let the topic go and not fret.

When a leisurely hour and a half had passed, Ling Xiao’s sudden movements alerted You XiaoMo. In a blank daze, he saw the man was already hooking an arm under his knees and back, lifting him and the blanket together up in his arms.

You XiaoMo had honestly wanted to protest, but when he thought about their original agreement, the words fell heavily into his stomach. Thinking of his future happiness also, if he behaved, Ling Xiao might easily agree to tomorrow as well.

Facts prove You XiaoMo was correct.

The next day after much resting, around the same time You XiaoMo was taken out to the balcony patio, enjoying the sunlight in Ling Xiao’s arms once more.

The time duration wasn’t always the same but it nevertheless lifted You XiaoMo’s spirits.

On the sixth day of his recovery, You XiaoMo was finally denied. Since his attacks have been spanning farther apart, the time he would normally ask to go outside clashed around his coughing bouts.

You XiaoMo’s small body had flipped itself on his belly, as backbreaking coughs wracked his system violently. Tears were on the edge of his vision, gasping, he felt Ling Xiao’s pressure suddenly on the bed. The man rotated him off his stomach and into a sitting position, applying a small amount of pressure in his stokes up and down his back, soothingly forcing his tense body to obey and relax.

When the worst of it had passed and You XiaoMo was panting against Ling Xiao’s strong chest, in a wheezing breath said, “I’ll be happy when the pill finally finishes taking over.”

Ling Xiao twisted You XiaoMo’s loose hair, sweeping it to rest naturally down the side of his shoulder, faintly said, “Soon.”

The next day You XiaoMo was preemptive, he asked to go ahead of schedule. Since he knew Ling Xiao wouldn’t let him go in the late afternoon or evening, he had to ask for early lunch time.

You XiaoMo didn’t know why, but he felt anxious to check on the vines, he eagerly wanted to see the flowers bloom.

Before they left to go outside, You XiaoMo asked for a large cup of water.

Ling Xiao didn’t think anything of it, and after You XiaoMo was given his requested water they went out.

Once situated, You XiaoMo’s eyes zeroed in and found what he was looking for.

Wiggling as much as he could out of Ling Xiao’s loose hold, You XiaoMo was haphazardly leaning forward, reaching for the clay pot with the cup of water in hand. In his weakened state, water jostled around almost splashing out, his arm was shaking so much you’d think he was doing it on purpose.

Ling Xiao finally held him back and looked at him questioningly, eyebrows raised, he couldn’t help but ask, “What are you doing?”

You XiaoMo didn’t look back at him, as his goal was still held a firm, with a stubborn tone he said, “I want to water the flower vine. If it’s going to bloom soon it needs more strength.”

Ling Xiao paused for a moment as he thought he understood now, his little wife was sympathizing his situation with that of the little flowers struggling to bloom.

Ling Xiao sighed, stretching out an offered hand, in a dull tone, lazily said, “Give it to me.”

You XiaoMo finally stopped in his efforts, with a big grin, he turned over and readily gave Ling Xiao the water.

Ling Xiao just gave him a long side glance, then got up to water the flower vines for his little wife.

You XiaoMo’s reply was to happily burrow into his side when he returned next to him.

On the eighth day of taking the magic pill, You XiaoMo was confused. Finally could not help but finally direct his questions to Ling Xiao.

Pillows surrounding him, You XiaoMo was propped up against the headboard of the bed, irritation painted his delicate facial features as he questioned, “It’s been eight days, why am I not cured yet? Shouldn’t it work faster than this?”

Sitting across him, Ling Xiao answered in a calm voice, “Have you not vastly improved already? Do not be so impatient.”

You XiaoMo pursed his lips in defeat, in an unhappy voice, “Of course, but..but why is my strength still so weakened?” The last words were said in almost a whine.

“We just need to build up your strength when you recover is all. Simple as that.” Ling Xiao said in a dismissive tone as if the answer was that simple.

Thus, You XiaoMo’s irritation was temporarily quelled, as well as being told by Ling Xiao to refocus on resting and absorbing the magic pill instead.

So, You XiaoMo did just that.

The next day, You XiaoMo’s coughing attacks decreased in severity, now just light ones that didn’t make his body quake. They seemed like a paper tiger in comparison to the old roaring ones.

On the tenth day of taking the magic pill, You XiaoMo’s fever finally broke.

You XiaoMo was overjoyed and couldn’t stop smiling, because he felt like if it didn’t break soon, he’d forever be taking a cold bath every night.

In order to celebrate, You XiaoMo wanted to eat a varied of delicious fruits on the balcony patio with Ling Xiao.

Taking a red slice of spirit fruit, You XiaoMo was about to eat it when he paused abruptly, pointing at the vines he excitedly exclaimed, “Ling Xiao! Look, look!”

Ling Xiao’s gaze lazily shifted to land at the location.

There were a few hanging buds that had glimpses of the telltale signs of blooming, but that wasn’t what got You XiaoMo’s attention the most. It was because hidden beneath those buds, there were a couple of bloomed flowers still covered by the early morning dew, the small pink petals glistened in the soft sunlight.

“Aren’t they pretty?” You XiaoMo said in soft admiration.

Slowly retracting his gaze, Ling Xiao focused it back towards the person tucked securely in his arms, giving them a long visual once-over.

The tender puffy cheeks were colored rosy with emotion, big and expressive black eyes sparkled like gems, the kind of look that would be the death of people at one glance. In his excitement, the slender white hands gripped his robe tightly, burying himself closer to his body.

Ling Xiao looked intensely only at him, tightened his hold and lazily said, “Ah, yes, very much so.”