Going nowhere

Liu Sumeng chased Chen Anyue out into the courtyard. She was in a rush, hiding her embarrassment and flustered face with a hurried pace. And though she knew she could hear the Ivory Sword Saint chase her steps, she dared not turn back.

She dared not have a glance and see his face.

"Where are you going?" She heard him ask.

The words spilled out in a fluster, "I…I just need some air." She was making it to the gate. The city was on the other side, an atmosphere full of festivities and things to distract her from her thoughts.

There was a long, stone-paved road that wound downward into the heart of the city. From the golden manor's lofty spot, the city of Reling at its feet was like a sparkling gem. Echoes of song trailed up like rising steam, dots of lantern light glowed in welcome.

In a trance, Chen Anyue went toward the lights and the sounds.

"It's late."