[Featured ×4]
Du Rui, an exceptionally forgetful reader, finds himself transmigrated into one of the top male harem stallion novels, but as the antagonist. Now inhabiting the role of Xue Xinyu, the cunning villain, Du Rui struggles to maintain his s...
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Huai Xiaozhun wasn't lazy by any means; his body and mind simply weren't attuned to the early hours. He preferred the calm and quiet of the night, when he could reflect and practice in solitude. However, today was different, and he found himself thrust into the morning's bustle much earlier than he would have liked.
After several hours of restlessness, his eyelids still heavy with sleep, he heard a soft knock on the door. It was Lǐ Tāo, returning with another gown in hand, a hopeful smile on his face.
Huai Xiaozhun blinked in surprise at Lǐ Tāo's persistence and wondered how he had managed to acquire a new gown so quickly.
The morning sun streamed through the windows, casting a golden hue across the room, highlighting the intricate patterns on the floor mats and walls. The room itself was modest but exuded a sense of peace, and history, with scrolls, and books neatly arranged on shelves and a small table in the corner adorned with flowers and books.
Lǐ Tāo stepped forward, holding the gown up for Huai Xiaozhun to see. "The palace maids hand-made this for you," he said, his voice brimming with excitement. "They tried to replicate the embroidery from the gown your master made, ensuring it carries a touch of Lingyun Peak's tradition."
Huai Xiaozhun took the gown and examined it closely. The fabric was soft and smooth under his fingers, crafted from the finest silk.
The embroidery was delicate and intricate, featuring motifs of cranes and clouds, symbols of purity and aspiration. The colours were a beautiful blend of white and blue, reminiscent of the sky and the sea, with a hint of gold that added a regal touch, symbolising its connection to Lingyun Peak.
The gown managed to retain the essence of his master's design while incorporating elements unique to his new home.
A feeling of warmth and gratitude welled up within Huai Xiaozhun. "Thank you for going through so much effort for me," he said, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. Lǐ Tāo's face lit up with satisfaction, the tension of their earlier encounter melting away.
From that moment on, Lǐ Tāo seemed to take on a new mission: to help Huai Xiaozhun feel more at home and to foster a sense of camaraderie with the other disciples. After breakfast, which consisted of steamed buns, congee, and fresh fruit served in the communal dining hall, Lǐ Tāo assisted Huai Xiaozhun in putting on the new gown.
Huai Xiaozhun, still half-asleep, appreciated the help, though his movements were slow and his mind foggy. The dining hall itself was bustling with activity, filled with the chatter of disciples discussing their morning routines and training schedules.
Once he was dressed, Huai Xiaozhun caught Lǐ Tāo staring at him, a mixture of amusement and concern on his face. "Are you awake enough to get a tour from me?" Lǐ Tāo asked, his tone light-hearted but with a hint of urgency.
