As the first glimmers of sunlight kissed the horizon, a new day quietly unfolded. The gentle warmth of the morning sun spread across the vast palace, illuminating its halls and chambers in a cascade of golden and rose-colored hues. The majestic structure basked in the serene glow, its elegant architecture standing tall beneath the awakening sky. In one of the sunlit chambers, Li Tian lay peacefully in bed, his expression calm and composed. Beside him, Lin Hua rested quietly, her arms wrapped around his waist, her head resting gently on his chest.
Li Tian stirred awake, his eyes opening slowly, revealing a subtle yet radiant gleam within them. Turning his gaze to his wife, he smiled softly as he felt the gentle rhythm of her breathing against him. Her embrace was warm and tender, and her serene expression filled him with a deep sense of contentment. He reached up and gently ran his fingers through her hair, his thoughts drifting.
"It's been a beautiful experience, learning and growing with her," he mused silently. "Last night was memorable in its own right—intimate, meaningful, and filled with affection."
Rather than disturb the peaceful moment, he chose to remain still, enjoying the quiet morning as he awaited her awakening.
More than an hour passed before Lin Hua stirred. Her eyes fluttered open, meeting Li Tian's gaze, which held a quiet fondness. A gentle smile curved his lips as he leaned down to kiss her forehead. Wrapping his arms around her, he pulled her close, and she nestled against his chest once again, her body relaxed and warm in his embrace.
After a moment of comfortable silence, Li Tian broke it softly. "So... how are you feeling this morning?" he asked, brushing a lock of hair from her face. "Especially after last night."
Lin Hua blinked, then smiled with a faint blush rising to her cheeks. "A little sore, but I'm alright. I truly enjoyed our time together. It felt... special. And now, I feel refreshed." She paused before continuing, her voice tinged with excitement. "Would you like to take a stroll with me through Violet Luminous City? It's not far from here."
Li Tian raised an eyebrow slightly, a playful expression on his face. "Violet Luminous City, hmm? Are you sure you're up for a walk around the city so soon?"
"Absolutely," she said, her voice soft but brimming with anticipation. "I want to explore it with you—taste some street food, wander through the markets, and just spend the day together."
He chuckled softly, the amusement evident in his voice. "If that's truly what you want, I won't refuse. But you should know—Violet Luminous City is vibrant, and its streets are lively. Are you sure you'll be comfortable after a night like last?"
She nodded with enthusiasm, her eyes glowing with excitement. "I've heard so many stories about it, and I want to experience it for myself—with you by my side. Maybe we'll even come across some rare cultivation items."
Seeing her eager expression, he couldn't help but smile. "Very well. We'll begin with some food, as you mentioned. After that, we can explore the markets, maybe even uncover a few hidden treasures if we're lucky."
Her smile widened, and she leaned forward to plant a light kiss on his lips. "Thank you, my love. I couldn't imagine a better way to spend the day. And when Sister Chen Lian returns, we should bring her along with us next time and make even more memories together."
"Agreed," Li Tian said with a nod. "Let's freshen up and get ready for the day."
With that, he rose from the bed and made his way toward the bathroom, Lin Hua trailing close behind. There was a lightness to their steps, driven by the anticipation of the day ahead.
In the softly lit bathroom, the gentle sound of water filled the air as Li Tian turned on the faucet. The soothing aroma of herbal soaps and warm steam created a tranquil atmosphere. As they went about their morning routine, casual conversation flowed between them, accompanied by occasional smiles and laughter. Lin Hua hummed a soft tune, and Li Tian watched her fondly, touched by her charm and presence.
After a refreshing bath, they emerged dressed for the occasion. Li Tian wore a modest yet refined robe that matched his calm composure, while Lin Hua chose a vibrant, flowing dress that reflected her bright spirit and playful elegance.
Once ready, Li Tian extended his hand to her. "Shall we begin our stroll?"
"With pleasure," she replied, slipping her hand into his and beaming warmly.
Together, they ascended into the sky, their figures gliding smoothly above the land. As they approached the gates of Violet Luminous City, the fading light of the sun painted the sky in deep shades of amber and rose, casting a radiant glow over the sprawling city below.
Li Tian's keen senses, sharpened by years of cultivation, took in the city's layout. The streets, buildings, and alleyways were woven with the energy of Qi, forming a living, breathing city brimming with vitality and motion.
Descending gracefully, the couple landed just beyond the city gates. Li Tian's robes stirred with the wind, a quiet testament to his inner strength and discipline. Beside him, Lin Hua's steps carried a graceful poise, her smile gentle and her eyes wide with wonder. Her beauty, coupled with her serene demeanor, gave her an almost ethereal presence.
Their footsteps fell in rhythm as they walked together, exchanging small smiles and glances that needed no words.
"This will be my first real adventure in the world of cultivation, and I'm fortunate to have such a remarkable woman beside me," Li Tian thought as he looked ahead. "In the stories I've read, protagonists often start weak, struggling and growing stronger over time. But I've already walked the path of solitude, poured years into my cultivation, and now I'm ready to enjoy the fruits of that effort."
"There will always be those who challenge or provoke," he continued mentally, "arrogant young masters testing their fate—but I am no novice. I'll face them with confidence, not for pride, but because I've earned this strength through perseverance. Let today mark the beginning of new memories and a new chapter my life."
With Lin Hua by his side and the vibrant world of Violet Luminous City ahead.