7. Under Yue's Pressure
Yue sat gracefully at the edge of the bed while Yiran carefully massaged her feet. The gentle, attentive movements conveyed everything without the need for many words. Yiran didn't complain, fully aware that the woman before him was the one who had saved him from ruin. Even so, this was the first time he had ever massaged and washed a woman's feet, making him incredibly nervous.
"You have skilled hands, Yiran," Yue said in a calm tone.
(Whatever you say… Thank you? That sounded like a compliment since your tone wasn't harsh. But this is ridiculous… It should be a mother's feet being washed, not the feet of a woman who means nothing to me…) Yiran thought to himself.
"Someone once told me that good people treat others with kindness. From their touch, we can judge what kind of person they are. Thinking about it now, you seem to be that kind of person. You're kind… If only you understood what I was saying, you'd probably be very proud, wouldn't you?"
Yue moved her foot slightly, signaling for Yiran to wash the other one.
Yiran could feel the texture of Yue's skin through his touch. There were scars and signs of hardship, proof that this woman had worked hard. He knew Yue was no ordinary person. As a remarkable figure, she had led many people into battle. That was what Yiran understood about her.
(If this were my world, you would be the pride of all women…)
"What are you mumbling about? It sounds like a complaint."
Yiran shook his head, not understanding Yue's words.
Once Yiran finished his task, he gestured for permission to leave Yue's room. Pointing toward the door, he spoke in a foreign language Yue couldn't understand.
"Are you uncomfortable staying here? Many men want to break in. If you understood what I was saying, you'd be shocked to hear it," Yue said.
(How long is she going to keep talking? This is what I hate the most, having to explain everything with gestures. If only Yun Zhi were here, she could help me. That girl always understands my signals so quickly. Yun Zhi is amazing!) Yiran thought.
Meanwhile, the person being thought of was currently choking on her drink.
Yiran stared blankly at Yue, who continued talking endlessly about the future, the strength that needed to be improved, and the army she commanded.
(This is ridiculous. You know I don't understand your language, yet you still talk to me. Please, lady, I have no idea what you're saying…)
"It feels freeing to talk without worrying that you'll tell anyone. It's also quite satisfying to see you confused and frustrated. Knowing that someone else is more frustrated than I am is truly enjoyable," Yue said with a playful smile.
(Damn it, is she doing this on purpose?) Yiran muttered in his mind.
"From your tone, it seems like you're angry?"
Yue stepped closer and placed her hand on Yiran's shoulder. Instantly, Yiran dropped to his knees, struggling to withstand the immense pressure radiating from Yue.
As a true master, Yue could control her inner energy (Qi) and lighten her body (Qinggong). Despite being a woman, her strength far surpassed that of ten muscular men.
Instinctively, Yiran knelt. Resisting was pointless, the risk was too great. His shoulders could be crushed. He had no desire to suffer broken bones or permanent injury.
(Damn it…)
Yue smiled, pleased with her actions.
"Quick to respond, wise decision, Yiran."