Chapter 163 Intimate Nocture
The setting sun cast a warm glow over the ambiance as Long Tian relaxed in an alfresco café on the outskirts of Shanghai.
In contrast to the densely packed, sweltering city plagued by traffic jams in his past life, Shanghai had transformed into a much-improved version in this world. Reiki played a crucial role, coupled with a strategic geographical layout that prompted populations to disperse from crowded urban areas.
Long Tian savored a steaming cup of black coffee, his sigh following afterward, harmonizing with the tranquil atmosphere.
"What a peaceful day. After the exhausting events in that mysterious world, it's time to focus on facing Qin Chen," he declared, a smirk playing on his lips.
Gently placing the cup back on its saucer, he rose from his seat with a fluid grace. Moving away from the café, he strolled leisurely through the vibrant streets of Shanghai.
Amidst his stroll, a familiar voice broke the city's hum, calling out, "Hey, Long Tian!"
Turning around, he spotted a woman with striking long black hair. In her thirties, clad in office attire, she was undeniably familiar – Zhang Mei, his ex-girlfriend.
"Hey, Zhang Mei. It's great to see you," he greeted warmly.
"Nice seeing you too, Long Tian. What brings you here?" Zhang Mei asked.
"Just taking a leisurely stroll and enjoying some free time. How about you? Just finished work?" Long Tian inquired.
"Yeah, you know, Long Tian, work has been quite demanding lately, especially with the unstable economy due to the sand-covered incident in Tianhai City," Zhang Mei responded, sighing.
Long Tian nodded, then flashed a reassuring smile, placing his hand on his hip. "I understand that work can be a real pressure cooker. Just take a deep breath and tackle one thing at a time. We all go through tough times, but I believe you'll handle it like a champ."
Zhang Mei smiled. "Well, it's nice to hear those words from you, Long Tian. Sometimes, I kind of miss our time together. Up for a comeback?" she teased, her smile growing playfully.
Long Tian just smiled. "We've talked about this, Zhang Mei," he said.
Hearing this, Zhang Mei sighed but maintained her smile. "But at least, we're friends, right?" she asked.
"Absolutely," Long Tian responded, a warm smile on his face.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt"Well then, wouldn't it be a good idea for us to hang out? There are many fun things in the old town. Want to go there?" Zhang Mei suggested.
"That's a good idea, but let me change my clothes first," Long Tian responded, adjusting his casual clothes.
"You still look good in those clothes."
"They're a bit dirty."
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The ambiance shifted to a cooler tone as the sun dipped below the horizon, surrendering to the embrace of a dark night sky.
In this moment, Long Tian and Zhang Mei found themselves in the heart of the old town, surrounded by myriad amusements, including a vibrant night market.
Long Tian, now dressed in a sleek black shirt paired with a matching suit, trousers, and polished black shoes, sat across from Zhang Mei. She adorned herself in a mesmerizing starry azure dress. Their chosen spot for the evening was a quaint restaurant, adorned with classic décor that added a touch of timeless elegance to their surroundings.
"By the way, Long Tian, I intend to resign from my company. The daily pressure is really getting to me, and it's not doing any favors for my mental health," Zhang Mei confided.
"Do you have any plans for what comes next?" Long Tian inquired.
"I'm not sure. Well, maybe I'll join the hunter's guild," Zhang Mei mused.
Long Tian raised an intrigued eyebrow. "Are you certain about that? Dealing with soul beasts isn't the safest choice. Alternatively, what about working at the Tianjia Pavilion? It's under my ownership now," he suggested.
"What? You own the Tianjia Pavilion? I heard they got a new owner, but I didn't expect it to be you," Zhang Mei exclaimed, genuine surprise coloring her tone.
A subtle smile played on Long Tian's lips. "Yes, it's mine now. I could offer you a position if you're interested," he proposed.
Hearing this, Zhang Mei fell silent for a moment, then responded, "I appreciate the offer, Long Tian. But I'll have to decline. I understand your concerns, and I'll show you something."
She lifted her finger, and a flame danced at its tip.
Long Tian was genuinely astonished. "How did you do that?" he asked.
"Hehe, believe it or not, I actually possess a secret technique passed down through my family," Zhang Mei revealed, a mischievous smile gracing her face.
Hearing this, Long Tian rubbed his chin, still marveling at Zhang Mei's abilities. However, in the next moment, a sudden recollection flashed across his mind.
"You once said you're from the great Yuan Dynasty, right? If I'm not mistaken, that might be one of their distinctive techniques," he suggested.
"Yes, that's precisely why I declined your offer. Soon, it will be Tsagaan Sar, and I'll be returning to the great Yuan Dynasty," Zhang Mei explained.
Long Tian nodded in understanding. Zhang Mei's reasoning resonated with him. He was well aware of Tsagaan Sar, marking the New Year for the entire population of the great Yuan Dynasty.
In his previous life on Earth, Tsagaan Sar was an annual celebration, but in this world, it occurred once every 1000 years.
But he suddenly realized something, "Wait, I remember it's not mandatory for those living abroad," he said.
"Yes, it's not mandatory for ordinary citizens. Unfortunately, I have the Khan's mark, which obligates me to return to the great Yuan Dynasty. Take a look at this," Zhang Mei said, showing her lower wrist with a crescent moon mark.
Seeing this, Long Tian rubbed his chin, feeling like he had seen that mark before.
"Is this the Khan's mark? What does it mean?" he inquired.
"It means I am a descendant of Genghis Khan. It doesn't look special because there are millions of people with that mark. You see, he slept with and bred with so many women before his death. And here I am, one of his descendants," Zhang Mei responded.
Long Tian nodded in understanding, then playfully teased, "Well, at least you're a descendant of a famous leader."
"It doesn't mean much to me," Zhang Mei smiled, shaking her head.
The two of them continued their dinner, engaged in conversation. Despite being former lovers, their relationship remained amicable.
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As the night deepened and the sky remained starless, Long Tian and Zhang Mei concluded their dinner, venturing into the enchanting corners of the old town. From a lively park filled with a variety of mini-games to the savory realm of street food delights, they immersed themselves in the allure of their surroundings.
After more than two hours of exploration, they discovered a secluded spot by the river, distanced from the dwindling crowds. In this tranquil setting, adorned with scattered bottles of Soju and assorted alcoholic beverages, the cool night breeze gently tousled Zhang Mei's hair, infusing the atmosphere with tranquility.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm"It's been an incredible time, Long Tian. Thank you for accompanying me," she expressed, her gaze lingering on Long Tian's eyes, a soft smile gracing her face.
"It's been quite enjoyable for me too," Long Tian agreed with a nod.
"Well, it's bound to be even more enjoyable with these drinks," Zhang Mei remarked, reaching for one of the alcoholic beverages.
"Are you certain about drinking? I recall you not being the best at it," Long Tian teased, a mischievous smirk playing on his face.
"Mind your words, boy. Who do you think taught you how to drink in the first place?" Zhang Mei retorted with a snort.
"Alright, alright, my apologies," Long Tian conceded playfully, then picked up a bottle of Soju. "Now, shall we say, cheers?" he proposed.
Zhang Mei also seized a bottle of Soju, clinking it against Long Tian's. "Cheers."
And so, the two of them began to revel in the intoxicating embrace of the night...
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The night deepened, enveloping the old town in an intimate quiet as its lanes gradually emptied of the departing crowd.
Meanwhile, in a secluded spot near the river, eight emptied bottles of alcoholic drinks bore witness to the passionate moments shared between Long Tian and Zhang Mei. The brisk night breeze wrapped a tender warmth around them, their flushed cheeks revealing the intoxicating effects of the night.
Long Tian's hand delicately traced the contours of Zhang Mei's clothing, expressing a desire to remove it. However, Zhang Mei intervened, introducing a momentary pause to their escalating intimacy.
"Others might catch a glimpse of us. My apartment is just around the corner; let's head there," she suggested with a teasing smile and a seductive undertone.
"Then, hold on tight," Long Tian responded with a grin.
In the next second, wings of darkness unfurled on his back, and he lifted Zhang Mei, gliding swiftly toward the apartment area.
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In no time, Long Tian and Zhang Mei found themselves inside the apartment. She promptly pushed Long Tian onto the bed and assumed a position on top.
Without a hint of hesitation, they shed their clothes, immersing themselves in a passionate embrace and a lingering kiss.
As the moments unfolded, the room echoed with the sounds of their breaths in the cool air, creating an intimate symphony of shared desire.