return from lanling

[shangba]

A full moon, unblinking.

You did not sleep, to see?

Comments

[shangba]

'I do not like you on this day.'

Then, 'I love you.'

Unsure our quarrels would flow.

[emperorssmile]

Yeah, it probably would feel out of place at best and sarcastic at worst.

Did our argument distract you?

[shangba]

Unlikely.

It was chance. Pure chance. Even to me.

[emperorssmile]

You're not just saying that to make me feel better?

It's okay, I believe you.

Still, I don't like that you were hurt. You should take better care of my husband, Lan Zhan.

[shangba]

He will become stronger. That too, a lesson. Must provide better.

[emperorssmile]

Stronger, hmm? Hanguang-Jun is already so strong, if he becomes more so, I’ll swoon every time he holds me.

[shangba]

You do not take this seriously.

[emperorssmile]

You’re right. I was trying to lighten the mood.

I get it. You could have died or been severely injured. I’m just scared to let that sink in.

[shangba]

Not that.

The urgency to strengthen. To protect.

Now, I have a family who requires me fully. Sizhui, Liang, Wei Ying.

[emperorssmile]

Do you think having a training partner would help you get stronger faster?

[shangba]

Perhaps.

But it cannot be Wei Ying.

[emperorssmile]

Right… I’d probably hold you back if we tried training together.

[shangba]

No.

But could never strike at my beloved with full force.

[emperorssmile]

Good! I don’t think I have a talisman strong enough to survive that if you did.

Do you ever spar with Zewu-Jun?

[shangba]

At times.

Demonic spirits, meditation. Calisthenics, forms.

[emperorssmile]

Too bad you don’t get along with Jiang Cheng. He’s not weak and you’d gladly use full force.

[shangba]

Too gladly. Shall increase my drills.

[emperorssmile]

Maybe if I get back in his good graces, he can get over himself and accept you.

[shangba]

He has answered your letter?

[emperorssmile]

I’m waiting until morning to send it. That way he can sleep off some of his temper first.

Oh! We could always track down Wen Ning if you want someone to train with.

[shangba]

Your favourite friend.

[emperorssmile]

He’s a good friend, but he’s not my favorite.

[shangba]

Shall inquire if he will assist.

[emperorssmile]

I wonder if he’s still in Gusu. He likes to support the juniors on their night hunts, but Sizhui’s been traveling with me.

Okay, just talked to Sizhui about it and Wen Ning’s been staying in a hut outside of Caiyi.

[shangba]

I do not believe he cherishes conflict. Battle.