Chapter 12: The Thrill of Reckless Spending
Previously, Nuoxue hadn’t had time to fully examine the carriage, but now she suddenly realized that her protector seemed incredibly wealthy—no, extraordinarily rich! The base of the carriage was crafted from spirit jade, emitting a chilling aura and spiritual energy that sent a shiver through Nuoxue’s mind. The frame was made from the finest white pear wood, a material brimming with spiritual essence. The interior was spacious, with a soft layer of white fur carpeting the floor. On the left stood a small table fashioned from glazed jade, accompanied by a petite bookshelf.
Though there were no other furnishings, Nuoxue couldn’t help but recall her master’s words: “This is utter extravagance. How could you be so wasteful, using such precious items to make a carriage?” Her heart ached, yet she felt an inexplicable thrill.
In truth, Nuoxue didn’t fully understand the carriage; this world was entirely different from the one she came from. Here, people cultivated profound energy, while she herself cultivated spiritual energy. Their studies diverged greatly. Yet this world was also home to monstrous beasts, many of considerable strength dwelling within the Endless Forest.
Watching the little fox rummage about inside the carriage, her large eyes darting as if deep in thought, Nuoxue suddenly sensed a surge of spiritual energy and decided to investigate. She glanced at Xuanyuan Yu, who was engrossed in reading, then made a determined leap. It had to be something valuable—such strong spiritual energy—if she absorbed it, would her own power recover somewhat?
Before she could reach it, Xuanyuan Yu’s hand swiftly grabbed her back. Holding the little fox in his arms, he flicked her lightly on the head and sighed, “You little fox, you’re so restless. You cause trouble in no time.”
The little fox struggled fiercely in his embrace, “Squeak, squeak, squeak! What do you mean, restless? If your thing wasn’t so interesting, I wouldn’t have touched it. Hmph, stingy!” Unable to break free, the little fox huffed and turned her head away in defiance.
If Xuanyuan Yu hadn’t acted quickly, the little fox might have been harmed. Yet this brat showed no gratitude and had the nerve to be angry. Clearly, she needed a lesson to understand her place. Thinking this, Xuanyuan Yu set her down on the carpet and resumed reading, ignoring her.
Nuoxue shook herself off, stood up, and gracefully padded over to lie down nearby. “Hmph, if you ignore me, I won’t bother with you either.”
After a long while, Nuoxue could no longer bear it. She wanted to lie in his cool embrace; she didn’t want to be ignored. A sense of abandonment gnawed at her. Finally, she leapt into Xuanyuan Yu’s arms, but he gently pushed her away and continued reading.
With no other recourse, Nuoxue nuzzled his hand with her head. He seemed upset—would he abandon her? Anxiety swelled within her. She adored this master; if he rejected her, what would she do?
“Squeak, squeak, squeak! Master, please don’t be angry. I was wrong—I won’t touch things recklessly anymore.”
Hearing the little fox’s meek cries, Xuanyuan Yu sighed softly. He lifted her back into his arms, his slender index finger gently cupping her chin. Yet a tear slid down the corner of the little fox’s eye, falling onto Xuanyuan Yu’s hand.
Unexpectedly, he withdrew his hand. That single tear seared him with a burning pain. Seeing the little fox’s pitiful expression, Xuanyuan Yu’s anger melted away.
(Nuomi invites you to recommend and leave comments—your support is her motivation. Also, check out her other novel, “The General’s Cherished Wife: Spoiling the Little Wild Wife,” for more heartfelt stories!)