Chapter 189: Auntie's Back Is Perfect for Scraping Therapy, the Former Saintess Stirred by Desire (1)
If this got out, her enemies would probably laugh themselves to death, and her prestige would take a hit.
If she had another chance, she'd swear she'd rather lose this soul fragment than stay here another second.
But at this moment, her soul was bound and sealed. She couldn't send out any information, let alone leave.
All she could do was silently endure the humiliation of defeat and the intense frustration eating at her.
Like swallowing bitter medicine in silence, her heart was full of suffering, but she had no one to tell.
She knew very well—the more miserable she looked, the happier they would be.
When would this kind of day finally end?!
Meanwhile, at White Jade Pavilion's Phoenix Luan Pool—
A thick herbal fragrance wafted off the pale green water, refreshing and invigorating.
This was the highest quality medicinal bath available, requiring countless rare herbs and spiritual treasures.
Normally, only the Empress herself would occasionally use it. It was considered a royal privilege.
But because of Su Qing's special status, as soon as he gave the order, it was prepared immediately.
The golden-haired beauty had already undressed, changing into a thin, sheer gown suited for bathing.
Her snow-white skin was so pale it almost blended in with the white jade of the poolside.
Her slender waist sharply contrasted her massive, proud tits, a visual feast of curves and elegance.
Her full, yet toned legs, combined with her flawless hourglass figure, looked like ripened peaches—impossibly seductive.
But her aura was the complete opposite.
Holy and untouchable, like a divine being who kept all at arm's length.
There was no expression on her face, but it wasn't because she was trying to act cold.
Ever since being betrayed, she had become used to this emotionless facade.
Still, as her eyes lingered on the medicinal bath, Gu Hanyan's lips curled into a faint smile.
That touch of warmth was like spring flowers blooming—shockingly beautiful.
Though she'd acted calm before, the truth was she'd been heavily drained.
Removing her senior sister's soul fragment alone wouldn't have taken much effort.
But the intricate restrictions she placed on that fragment had cost her dearly.
To put it simply: it's easy to kill someone, but trying to do delicate surgery to save them? Much harder.
And now, this extra-concentrated medicinal bath was exactly what she needed to recover!
Gu Hanyan brushed her golden hair aside, revealing a hint of gentle charm.
She was growing more and more satisfied with the nephew she'd only recently accepted.
She hadn't even asked for a medicinal bath, yet he had it prepared in advance.
When it came to handling people and situations, he was flawless—no one could fault him.
She stepped into the water, closed her eyes, and began to recuperate.
She now had a clear sense of Su Qing's influence and authority.
Few people could even access this place, let alone afford the precious herbs used here.
Qing'er… he really was being dutiful and considerate.
Just as this thought crossed her mind, Gu Hanyan's eyes suddenly snapped open, sharp and alert.
Only after she looked toward the door did a soft sound emerge from there.
Then came a slightly hesitant voice.
"Auntie, I came to help you relieve fatigue and better absorb the medicinal effects."
Su Qing didn't walk in directly; he called from outside the door.
After confirming the witch was safe and still very lively, he could finally relax.
Now it was about time to show some filial piety and help ease her fatigue!
When it came to winning favor, he had plenty of experience.
Simply put: the fewer the clothes, the better the relationship.
When people wore less, it was easier for hearts to connect.
Of course, that only worked between opposite sexes. Otherwise, it wouldn't have the same effect.
Well... for certain people, even same-sex might work.
"Relieve fatigue?"
The sharpness in Gu Hanyan's eyes faded, replaced by curiosity.
"Exactly! His Majesty himself has praised my technique. I've practiced for years!"
"If it's done in the medicinal pool, it helps absorb the herbs better and speeds up recovery!"
"If Auntie gives it a try, I guarantee you'll love it!"
Su Qing spoke with full confidence.
And he wasn't exaggerating—anyone who'd experienced his massage skills had sung their praises.
Sadly, although they praised it, nobody ever volunteered for a full-body massage.
As a man who made his living with his hands, he could only sigh about that.
Gu Hanyan showed some hesitation after hearing all that.
She might be aloof from worldly matters, but she wasn't some saint without desires.
If she really were that detached, she wouldn't spend all day plotting revenge.
So being tempted by Su Qing's words? Totally natural.
After all, she was already enjoying a medicinal bath usually reserved for the Empress.
If she added a massage reserved for the Empress too, wouldn't that be a complete imperial treatment?
She didn't have any interest in fighting for the throne, but... it wouldn't hurt to enjoy it once, right?
"Auntie, then I'm coming in."
Su Qing spoke as he stepped inside.
He played the shy young man to perfection, looking a little embarrassed.
He kept his head down, not daring to glance at the bath.
And this attitude, ironically, made the already-hesitant blonde beauty lower her guard even more.
Was she being too paranoid?
He was just a kid. He probably didn't even have thoughts in that direction.
"Auntie, let me give you a massage to soothe your muscles and improve circulation,"
Su Qing explained softly.
No matter how you looked at him, he seemed completely harmless—it was impossible to be on guard around him.
"Mm, thank you, Qing'er."
Gu Hanyan smiled gently.
Her face was warm, and she had only one thought in her mind:
Her sweet nephew was here to show his filial love.
How could she possibly reject that?
The golden-haired beauty had never experienced a massage before and had no idea what was about to happen.
"Auntie, just lie down over there. That's where Her Majesty lies when soaking in the bath."
Su Qing pointed to the edge of the pool.
It had been carefully designed—perfectly shaped for lying down or leaning forward.
Still submerged in the medicinal bath, but with no risk of choking.
Gu Hanyan walked over without hesitation, laid herself down, and adjusted her posture.
Every part of her—arms, head—had the perfect place to rest.
As she felt the ergonomic white jade curves conforming to her body, she couldn't help but sigh emotionally.
No wonder so many people crave power. Who wouldn't want to experience this level of comfort?
Su Qing silently walked over, eyes falling on her smooth, pink-white back—absolutely perfect for scraping therapy.
Next time, he should definitely get a scraping board and give her the full treatment.
Just one session would leave her feeling completely satisfied and fulfilled.
But for now, he chose to take it slow.