Chapter 193: A Heavy Step
A week had passed since my conversation with Song Song about our plans and since my cousins had left. I had already sent the letter requesting leave, and as Song Song's subordinate, they would certainly approve it. If not, Song Song and I had agreed to act as if she had told me the Sect confirmed my vacation. If anyone asked, we'd pretend she "lied" to me. The worst that could happen would be a slap on the wrist.
Even that would be excessive. Allowing Song Song to be punished for something like this would send a message to the entire Sect—that the Song Clan could be easily reprimanded, even for minor issues. Whether her clan liked Song Song or not was irrelevant; they had to consider the bigger picture in such situations. They couldn't afford to give even an inch to their real enemies. After all, the Song Clan hadn't done much to make friends, and they had made plenty of enemies with their often ruthless behavior.
"C'mon now, big guy, just step on the jade platform," I coaxed Speedy, who eyed the translucent surface warily. He nudged it with his head, testing its texture, and let out a faint whine.
The sky was a soft canvas of clouds, their edges tinged with the fading hues of the setting sun. It was late summer, and the oppressive heat had eased into a gentle warmth. The air was mild, carrying the faint scent of leaves just beginning to think about turning for autumn.
With such good weather, I had no idea what he was complaining about.
"What? Not soft enough for you? Or are you worried it'll break?" I teased. "Don't worry, we'll take it slow once we're away from the Sect. And really, what are you so concerned about? With that tough shell of yours, you could fall from space and be fine."
Speedy whined again, rubbing his cheek against the grass before looking up at me.
"What the hell is that supposed to mean?" I asked.
He made a louder sound this time, rubbing his face against a nearby tree before lying down and standing up again.