After nightfall, Empress Dowager was delighted to hear that Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu would be staying together. She cajoled the two youngsters and specially prepared a set of clothes for Feng Bailing before sending someone to take her to see Dugu Wu.
In a side hall, Dugu Wu had already ordered the preparation of a wooden tub for a medicinal bath.
Feng Bailing’s previous medicinal baths, though not favored by Dugu Wu, undeniably brought about some improvements—after several such baths, his legs gradually regained sensation. Coupled with Feng Bailing’s acupuncture treatment, the muscles, which had started to atrophy, finally showed signs of recovery.
The pale muscles gradually regained color, becoming elastic.
"I will attend to the Prince; you all may leave."
Feng Bailing glanced at the several palace maids following her.
These palace maids were sent by Empress Dowager to serve her, but whether any of them were spies for someone else was unknown.
The palace maids voiced their compliance and withdrew outside the hall.
Dugu Wu, having walked with a cane the entire day, also felt somewhat tired.
He saw Feng Bailing dressed in a moon-white cotton skirt, embellished with bright pink silk threads forming blossoming peach flowers, and a green silk ribbon accentuating her slender waist, making her appear even more delicate than the flowers themselves.
Having spent a lot of time with Feng Bailing, Dugu Wu noticed she didn’t like to wear various ornaments. Like today, she had no extra accessories in her hair, just his jade pendant tied around her waist.
Feng Bailing closed the door and surveyed the side hall, which although a side hall, was well-equipped.
She casually took down a candle and lit an aromatherapy candle as thick as a small forearm.
"This is a type of candle that has recently become popular in the city, mixed with Chinese medicine, it can help calm and nourish the spirit."
Once the candle was lit, a faint floral scent indeed filled the air.
Feng Bailing helped Dugu Wu up, reaching to remove his clothes.
"What are you doing?"
Dugu Wu grabbed Feng Bailing’s hand.
This woman was becoming bolder.
"Helping you change. The medicinal bath won’t be as effective with clothes on."
Feng Bailing spoke with the caring tone of a physician.
After repeated trials, Feng Bailing discovered a pattern.
The closer they were, the more of the Emperor’s aura she could perceive.
Being naked, rather than clothed, allowed for absorbing more of the Emperor’s aura.
Also, when Dugu Wu’s emotions fluctuated, whether joyful or angry, the Emperor’s aura would vary as well.
Feng Bailing and Dugu Wu stood at an impasse.
"The water will cool down."
The room was filled with steam, the water in the large tub continuously emitting vapor.
"I’ll undress myself."
Seemingly wary of Feng Bailing’s next move, Dugu Wu removed his shirt.
Although it wasn’t the first time she had seen Dugu Wu shirtless, Feng Bailing still marveled at his impressive physique.
His skin tone, darker than most men due to years of campaigning, was a bronze color. He appeared lean, yet possessed a well-defined, muscular build with broad shoulders, narrow waist, beautifully sculpted arms, a visibly defined six-pack, enticing V-lines, and long legs.
It was a pity his legs were still crippled...
"Have you stared enough? Come and help."
Dugu Wu, wearing a stiff expression, motioned towards his trousers as Feng Bailing hurried over.
"You can leave the trousers on."
Feng Bailing blushed.
Dugu Wu’s expression was icy.
Feng Bailing slowly and awkwardly began to remove his trousers and boots.
Fortunately, he was wearing boxer shorts; incidentally, it’s worth mentioning that Dugu Wu had a rather shapely rear.