Chapter 2: A Fateful Encounter

Outside Jianye City, the verdant hills stretched endlessly, their slopes lush with vegetation—a favored haven for herbal collectors.

Xu Xuan, a young yet skilled physician, often carried his herbal basket into these mountains to gather medicinal plants.

Though appearing no older than fifteen or sixteen, his demeanor marked him as a budding medical scholar, with movements still somewhat tentative.

On this day, under a gentle sun, Xu Xuan followed the winding mountain path as usual.

As he walked, he carefully examined the herbs along the trail. His keen eyes soon filled his basket with several rare and precious plants.

In a quiet valley, a clear spring shimmered, its waters crystal pure and its surroundings adorned with exotic flowers and herbs. Nearby, Little Bai and Little Qing played by the spring’s edge.

Little Bai wore flowing white robes that fluttered softly in the breeze, blending seamlessly with the serene landscape. Little Qing was clad in a lively green tunic, full of spirited charm.

“Sister, the scenery here is truly beautiful,” Little Qing said with a smile.

Little Bai nodded gently. “Indeed, Little Qing. But we must be cautious not to let mortals discover our presence.”

As they spoke, the sound of footsteps approached. Startled, Little Qing slipped behind Little Bai.

Rounding a bend, Xu Xuan saw the two young women before him. Surprised to find such beauty deep in the mountains, he quickly regained his composure and politely inquired, “Ladies, what brings you here? These mountains hold many dangers.”

Little Bai met his gaze, a strange feeling stirring within her. She softly replied, “Sir, my sister and I came to enjoy the mountain, but we have lost our way.”

Xu Xuan hurriedly said, “I see. Fear not, young ladies. I am familiar with these paths and can guide you safely down.”

Little Qing peeked out from behind, skeptical. “You’re a mortal—how can we trust you?”

Xu Xuan smiled reassuringly. “Rest assured, I am Xu Xuan, a physician from Lin’an City. I am here to gather herbs and mean no harm.”

Little Bai gently tugged at Little Qing’s sleeve and said to Xu Xuan, “Thank you kindly, sir.”

Looking at Little Bai, Xu Xuan felt a growing fascination. “May I ask your name, lady?”

After a moment’s hesitation, she responded, “I am Little Bai, and this is my sister, Little Qing.”

Xu Xuan nodded. “Little Bai, there are some particularly precious herbs here. If you don’t mind, I could share my knowledge with you.”

Curious, Little Bai agreed. “That would be most kind of you.”

Xu Xuan crouched beside a plant. “See this one? It’s Lingzhi grass, known for nourishing vitality and prolonging life. However, it requires a very specific environment to thrive.”

Listening to his explanation, Little Bai and Little Qing admired his vast knowledge.

Suddenly, dark clouds drifted overhead, signaling impending rain. Xu Xuan hurriedly said, “Ladies, there’s a small herbal cabin nearby. Let’s take shelter there.”

Exchanging a glance, the sisters nodded in agreement.

Xu Xuan quickly led them to the modest cabin. Though simple, it offered refuge from the wind and rain. Inside, he kindled a fire to warm Little Bai and Little Qing.

Watching Xu Xuan bustle about, Little Qing whispered to Little Bai, “Sister, this Xu Xuan seems quite alright.”

Little Bai playfully scolded, “Little Qing, don’t speak so freely.”

The rain pattered softly outside, and within the cabin the atmosphere grew subtly charged. Xu Xuan gazed at Little Bai, a mysterious affection blossoming in his heart. Little Bai, too, stole glances at the kind and learned mortal, her heart quietly marked by this encounter.

When the rain ceased, Xu Xuan led the sisters out of the cabin.

“Thank you, Master Xu, for your help today. We should be on our way now,” Little Bai said.

Reluctantly, Xu Xuan replied, “Little Bai, I hope we meet again someday.”

As Little Bai and Little Qing disappeared along the mountain path, Xu Xuan watched them go, aware that this meeting marked the beginning of a wondrous fate.