Later that night.
Falling Blossom Villa.
The warm, gentle mist hovered over the natural hot springs hidden away in the secluded, bamboo-lined courtyard at the back of their villa.
The soft glow of spiritual lanterns cast long, flickering shadows across the smooth river stones surrounding the pool, while the pleasant aroma of crushed lavender and medicinal herbs filled the crisp night air.
Haoran entered the hotsprings, completely naked and relaxed on the water, sighing in relaxation.
The others have already finished soaking and left to rest or celebrate after the successfull trial, with Xu Xiansu and Shen Tao being the only ones to meet up and plan for their next steps now that they have acquired a pass to own their cities.
He leaned his head back against the smooth, worn rock at the edge of the bath, letting the hot, mineral-rich water wash away the lingering fatigue of the day's events.
