Chapter 1: The First Failure
The moon hung low over Jade Sect, casting silver light across the tiered roofs and hanging bridges that wound between its peaks. Beneath the soft glow, disciples practiced sword forms, whispered incantations, and walked hand-in-hand beneath the plum blossoms in bloom. It was the kind of night made for lovers.
And Lin Mu was in love.
He stood barefoot on the polished balcony of his private residence in Cloudveil Hall, overlooking the mountain lake below. His robes were neatly folded inside, a low-burning spirit lamp bathing the room in warm light. The air smelled faintly of incense—jasmine, her favorite.
Tonight was their night.
Xue Lan was inside, preparing.
They had been promised to each other since they were inner disciples—an arrangement of mutual affection, not just cultivation alliance. She had always looked at him with warmth, had always reached for his hand first when the elders paired them during training.
He loved her.
Truly, deeply.
And tonight, after months of restraint and meditation, of slow courting and meaningful touches, he would finally have her.