Chapter 256: Húxiān
The footsteps beyond the tree line grew closer, accompanied by the soft rustle of fabric against leaves.
Grim tensed, his hand instinctively moving toward his sword while the dark mana responded to his heightened alertness.
"Peace," a melodious voice called from the shadows. "I mean no harm to either of you."
A figure emerged from the forest, and both Grim and Ruxi froze in recognition—though for different reasons.
The woman who stepped into the clearing was breathtakingly beautiful in ways that defied normal description.
Her hair flowed down to her knees. Her eyes looked just like Ruxi’s.
She wore robes that seemed to be woven from moonlight itself, the fabric shifting between silver and pale blue as she moved. Nine magnificent tails swayed behind her, each one more luxurious than any Grim had seen among anyone in this realm.
Grim found himself staring, unable to look away from the most beautiful woman he had ever encountered. Even Ruxi, who had always seemed perfection incarnate, paled in comparison to this ethereal figure.
Ruxi’s reaction was immediate and dramatic. She dropped to her knees, pressing her forehead to the ground in a gesture of complete prostration.
"Honored Húxiān," she whispered, her voice filled with reverence and barely controlled awe. "This humble servant greets you."
"Ruxi," Grim said, confused by her sudden submission. "What are you—"
"Rise, child," the woman—Húxiān—said with gentle amusement. "Such formality is unnecessary between us."