Chapter 10: Stillness and Sound
The moon was high over Jade Sect, casting silver light across the polished courtyards and winding skybridges. The world outside Lin Mu's chamber was still. Disciples meditated. Teachers slept. And the quiet night should have brought him peace.
But it didn't.
Lin Mu sat cross-legged on a cushion in his side chamber, attempting to cycle his spiritual energy. The faint glow of the moonstone lamp lit the edges of the room. The incense was fresh. His posture was perfect.
But his heart was unsteady.
Because the walls were thin.
From just three doors down, a rhythm had begun. Slow at first—thudding against the wall, almost imperceptible. But soon came the breathing. Then the gasps.
Then her voice.
"Ah... deeper—yes, gods, right there!"
Lin Mu's fingers tightened on his knees.
He knew that voice. He had heard it whisper love into his ear, laugh in the garden, promise to stay by his side.
But he had never heard it like this.