Two weeks had passed since the glorious return of braised pork belly to the master courtyard.
The results of the new, meat-inclusive diet were undeniable. Yan Shuo's fifteen-year-old physical vessel was practically glowing with healthy mortal vitality. His pale cheeks had gained a faint, healthy color, and his dark eyes were bright and sharp. The Heavenly Dao curse remained perfectly frozen, completely dormant under Tantai Zhi's flawless Yin-ice seal.
For the first time in seven months, Yan Shuo felt like a functioning human being rather than a fragile glass ornament.
He sat up on his heated jade cushion and stretched his arms over his head. His spine popped in a deeply satisfying cascade.
He lowered his arms, looking across the courtyard.
Exactly ten paces away was the koi pond. The crystal-clear water glittered invitingly in the morning sun, and fifteen fat, lazy spirit-koi swam in slow, peaceful circles.
Yan Shuo made a decision.
