CM: C05

Chapter: 5 | Chapter Five

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Chapter Five

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This novel was posted on cnt18 [dot] blogsp0t [dot] com, by anasiana. If you're not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)

Chapter Pic

_{Han Yang: "..."}
Within the study, three people sat with not a word exchanged between them. In such a large room the only sounds that could be heard, were the trickling of the poured tea, and the soft clicks of chess pieces against their board.

Han Yang: "..."

_{Chapter Five}Han Yang said in his heart.

Chapter Five

_{"Lao TouziT/n: Lao Touzi is more casual, personal form of address here. Han Yang's speech became friendlier., I haven't enjoyed myself so much in such a long time. You really should go, get downstairs for dinner." Lao Yezi stood up and left the room.}"Just get over there first." Seeing him still staring off blankly, Helian Qing just pulled him towards Lao Yezi and sat him down directly across from the old man, then said indifferently, "Keep Grandad company in the next chess game."

"Lao TouziT/n: Lao Touzi is more casual, personal form of address here. Han Yang's speech became friendlier., I haven't enjoyed myself so much in such a long time. You really should go, get downstairs for dinner." Lao Yezi stood up and left the room.

_{"Come on then, play another round of chess with me." Lao Yezi said.}
After a while, Lao Yezi suddenly called, "WaziT/n: child, come here and accompany this Lao TouziT/n: Old man for the next round."

"Come on then, play another round of chess with me." Lao Yezi said.

_{"Huh?" Han Yang softly exclaimed, lifting his head to look at Helian Qing who was now standing beside him, then to Lao Yezi who still sat where he was. Could it be when he called for, Wazi, he was referring to Helian Qing?}The two, in unison, turned to face one another, staring. Han Yang suddenly couldn't anymore, his ears began to flush red. Helian Qing remained silent, though the corners of his mouth did faintly curve upwards.

"Huh?" Han Yang softly exclaimed, lifting his head to look at Helian Qing who was now standing beside him, then to Lao Yezi who still sat where he was. Could it be when he called for, Wazi, he was referring to Helian Qing?

_{Lao Yezi's attention rose away from his chess game, it was clear he was not very pleased with Helian Qing's interruption, waved aside and said, " You should go get some rest. Before when you were a kid, why didn't I realise how troublesome you are? You never had any time to play chess with me and now you want to your wife to do the same."}
Upon hearing his request, Han Yang unconsciously stood up, but he did not go over just yet.

Lao Yezi's attention rose away from his chess game, it was clear he was not very pleased with Helian Qing's interruption, waved aside and said, " You should go get some rest. Before when you were a kid, why didn't I realise how troublesome you are? You never had any time to play chess with me and now you want to your wife to do the same."

_{Han Yang: "..."}
"Why are you just standing there?" Helian Qing asked when he noticed Han Yang just stood there, dumbfounded.

Han Yang: "..."

_{In his childhood years, he would often accompany his grandfather who played chess with the old men of their village. Seeing that for so long, he naturally developed an interest in the game, so his grandpa personally taught him for many years.}"Nothing." Han Yang responded, shaking his head.

In his childhood years, he would often accompany his grandfather who played chess with the old men of their village. Seeing that for so long, he naturally developed an interest in the game, so his grandpa personally taught him for many years.

_{Helian Qing: "..."}
"Huh?" Han Yang softly exclaimed, lifting his head to look at Helian Qing who was now standing beside him, then to Lao Yezi who still sat where he was. Could it be when he called for, Wazi, he was referring to Helian Qing?

Helian Qing: "..."

_{"..." The change in Helian Qing's expression was obvious as he looked towards Han Yang sporting a resentful glare, "What stupid thing are you asking? Did playing a game of chess for so long give you courage?"}
Helian Qing was very amused by his reaction, "Don't tell me you're thinking such a silly address as, Wazi, was really intended for me?"

"..." The change in Helian Qing's expression was obvious as he looked towards Han Yang sporting a resentful glare, "What stupid thing are you asking? Did playing a game of chess for so long give you courage?"

_{Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind.}Chapter Five

Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind. My Grandpa is a chess fiend, so when I younger, I just followed him and learned to play. But before someone like you, my skills cannot dare compareT/n: 班门弄斧: bān mén nòng fǔ: this is an idiom that means to show off your skills in front of someone who's an expert. It's used in a self-deprecating manner, so the last line is where Han Yang uses it.."

_{Little by little, time passed by as the two people played their game of chess. A servant even came up to announce it was already time for dinner, yet Lao Yezi still wished to continue playing.}Suddenly, Han Yang recalled the times when he and his grandpa also sat around playing chess. Simply thinking of that old man who loved him dearly made him, little by little, unable to help the joy-filled expression that arose on his face, allowing the restlessness within his heart to calm. If he just regarded the old man who now sat before him as just an ordinary old man, it'd probably be okay.

Little by little, time passed by as the two people played their game of chess. A servant even came up to announce it was already time for dinner, yet Lao Yezi still wished to continue playing.

_{{What is this? Your own grandson brings home a man, and says he wishes to marry him. Shouldn't he face strong opposition from his family? Even though the same-sеx marriage law was passed, it's still new, and a good number of families are still not truly accepting of it.}}His tone made it unclear whether his statement was one of praise, Han Yang simply stared at him, just as he continued speaking, "Dropping by for a chess game, and your husband's presence slips your mind too. I'm trying to decide whether I should give you a chess set, do you want to go set up a stall on the street?"

What is this? Your own grandson brings home a man, and says he wishes to marry him. Shouldn't he face strong opposition from his family? Even though the same-sеx marriage law was passed, it's still new, and a good number of families are still not truly accepting of it.

_{Upon hearing his request, Han Yang unconsciously stood up, but he did not go over just yet.}
To the "are you stupid or something" expression on his face, Han Yang turned a blind eye, then whispered, "He's your grandfather, why wouldn't he be calling for you?"

Upon hearing his request, Han Yang unconsciously stood up, but he did not go over just yet.

_{Han Yang knew for certain Lao Yezi wouldn’t have not known his name beforehand. With a that kind of family, he guessed from the moment he and Helian Qing's relationship began, his entire past was thoroughly investigated and delivered to the old man.}"Do you know how to play?" Lao Yezi disrupted his original game then began separating the chess pieces. Seeing this, Han Yang quickly started sorting the pieces with him, politely replying, "Yes, a little."

Han Yang knew for certain Lao Yezi wouldn’t have not known his name beforehand. With a that kind of family, he guessed from the moment he and Helian Qing's relationship began, his entire past was thoroughly investigated and delivered to the old man.

_{Um, please forgive him for that self-description, the situation was proving to be beyond his abilities to comprehend.}Helian Qing: "Ha Ha, when we go back home, you'll see just how I'll sort you out."

Um, please forgive him for that self-description, the situation was proving to be beyond his abilities to comprehend.

_{Han Yang: "..." he really had forgotten all about Helian Qing while visiting for a chess game.}
Who could've known that the instant he finished those words, Lao Yezi would put down the chess piece onto the board with a clack, lifting his head, "How could you say that? Since you're together with Helian Qing, why wouldn't I be your grandfather?"

Han Yang: "..." he really had forgotten all about Helian Qing while visiting for a chess game.

_{Who could've known that the instant he finished those words, Lao Yezi would put down the chess piece onto the board with a clack, lifting his head, "How could you say that? Since you're together with Helian Qing, why wouldn't I be your grandfather?"}His tone made it unclear whether his statement was one of praise, Han Yang simply stared at him, just as he continued speaking, "Dropping by for a chess game, and your husband's presence slips your mind too. I'm trying to decide whether I should give you a chess set, do you want to go set up a stall on the street?"

Who could've known that the instant he finished those words, Lao Yezi would put down the chess piece onto the board with a clack, lifting his head, "How could you say that? Since you're together with Helian Qing, why wouldn't I be your grandfather?"

_{Han Yang, bewildered, involuntarily turned his head towards the man sitting beside him just to see the expressionless face donned by Helian Qing, who sat there as if he wasn't being referred to by that name. With a touch of hesitance, Han Yang inquired, "...Qing'er?"}
"..." Han Yang stood awkwardly beside Helian Qing, in that moment, he was unable to refute those words. Helian Qing on the other hand, as one would expect, looked delighted by his helplessness.

Han Yang, bewildered, involuntarily turned his head towards the man sitting beside him just to see the expressionless face donned by Helian Qing, who sat there as if he wasn't being referred to by that name. With a touch of hesitance, Han Yang inquired, "...Qing'er?"

_{Han Yang: "..."}"Really?" Helian Qing shot Han Yang a glance, neither cold nor warmly said, "So why don't you tell us your childhood name, was it Guo DanT/n: dog eggs perhaps?"

Han Yang: "..."

_{"Why are you just standing there?" Helian Qing asked when he noticed Han Yang just stood there, dumbfounded.}"What's your name?" Lao Yezi casually asked as he arranged the chess pieces.

"Why are you just standing there?" Helian Qing asked when he noticed Han Yang just stood there, dumbfounded.

_{Helian Qing saw by his expression, he was trying to figure out the right response. His face face gradually darkened, and with a scoff, he strode off ahead of him.}
What is this? Your own grandson brings home a man, and says he wishes to marry him. Shouldn't he face strong opposition from his family? Even though the same-sеx marriage law was passed, it's still new, and a good number of families are still not truly accepting of it.

Helian Qing saw by his expression, he was trying to figure out the right response. His face face gradually darkened, and with a scoff, he strode off ahead of him.

_{Upon hearing his request, Han Yang unconsciously stood up, but he did not go over just yet.}"Alright." Han Yang nodded.

Upon hearing his request, Han Yang unconsciously stood up, but he did not go over just yet.

_{{After all, as a c*ckRooster, get your minds out the gutter he was unable to lay eggs.}}"Don't take a mile when you're only given an inch." Helian Qing said.

After all, as a c*ckRooster, get your minds out the gutter he was unable to lay eggs.

_{The two, in unison, turned to face one another, staring. Han Yang suddenly couldn't anymore, his ears began to flush red. Helian Qing remained silent, though the corners of his mouth did faintly curve upwards.}
After all, as a c*ckRooster, get your minds out the gutter he was unable to lay eggs.

The two, in unison, turned to face one another, staring. Han Yang suddenly couldn't anymore, his ears began to flush red. Helian Qing remained silent, though the corners of his mouth did faintly curve upwards.

_{To the "are you stupid or something" expression on his face, Han Yang turned a blind eye, then whispered, "He's your grandfather, why wouldn't he be calling for you?"}
Um, please forgive him for that self-description, the situation was proving to be beyond his abilities to comprehend.

To the "are you stupid or something" expression on his face, Han Yang turned a blind eye, then whispered, "He's your grandfather, why wouldn't he be calling for you?"

_{Han Yang was seriously unable to bear his ridicule.}Han Yang said in his heart.

Han Yang was seriously unable to bear his ridicule.

_{Han Yang: "..."}"Just get over there first." Seeing him still staring off blankly, Helian Qing just pulled him towards Lao Yezi and sat him down directly across from the old man, then said indifferently, "Keep Grandad company in the next chess game."

Han Yang: "..."

_{Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind.}After the board was arranged, out of respect, Han Yang allowed Lao Yezi to go first, Lao Yezi on the other hand, gestured with a wave to let him make the first move instead. Han Yang respectfully accepted and thus made the first move.

Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind. My Grandpa is a chess fiend, so when I younger, I just followed him and learned to play. But before someone like you, my skills cannot dare compareT/n: 班门弄斧: bān mén nòng fǔ: this is an idiom that means to show off your skills in front of someone who's an expert. It's used in a self-deprecating manner, so the last line is where Han Yang uses it.."

_{"Don't take a mile when you're only given an inch." Helian Qing said.}
"Just get over there first." Seeing him still staring off blankly, Helian Qing just pulled him towards Lao Yezi and sat him down directly across from the old man, then said indifferently, "Keep Grandad company in the next chess game."

"Don't take a mile when you're only given an inch." Helian Qing said.

_{"Nothing." Han Yang responded, shaking his head.}"Han Yang and Helian Qing left right after, with the latter mentioning, "Your chess skills aren't that bad, huh."

"Nothing." Han Yang responded, shaking his head.

_{Han Yang was seriously unable to bear his ridicule.}
Han Yang sat stiffly in his seat, with neither his hands nor feet quite knowing where they should rest. Only after noting the gentle expression adorning Lao Yezi's face, was he able to finally relax, if only just a little. Perhaps this situation wasn't as bad as he thought, at least it was nothing like he had expected—him to be cursed then driven out.

Han Yang was seriously unable to bear his ridicule.

_{Han Yang: "..." he really had forgotten all about Helian Qing while visiting for a chess game.}What is this? Your own grandson brings home a man, and says he wishes to marry him. Shouldn't he face strong opposition from his family? Even though the same-sеx marriage law was passed, it's still new, and a good number of families are still not truly accepting of it.

Han Yang: "..." he really had forgotten all about Helian Qing while visiting for a chess game.

_{{...just why is this guy's mouth so mean!}}"Lao Yezi, doesn't mind being called Lao Yezi by you but it does sound kind of awkward." Lao Yezi took the cup of tea handed to him by Helian Qing, drinking a sip, then to Han Yang said, "So since you and Qing'er are to be wed, you might as well start calling me grandad too."

...just why is this guy's mouth so mean!

_{Han Yang: "..."}In the final inning, Han Yang still lost though. Saying in a hushed tone, "Lao Yezi, you were difficult to deal withT/n: the word translated as "difficult to deal with" also means "ferocious" and "awesome"."

Han Yang: "..."

_{Han Yang knew for certain Lao Yezi wouldn’t have not known his name beforehand. With a that kind of family, he guessed from the moment he and Helian Qing's relationship began, his entire past was thoroughly investigated and delivered to the old man.}
"Do you know how to play?" Lao Yezi disrupted his original game then began separating the chess pieces. Seeing this, Han Yang quickly started sorting the pieces with him, politely replying, "Yes, a little."

Han Yang knew for certain Lao Yezi wouldn’t have not known his name beforehand. With a that kind of family, he guessed from the moment he and Helian Qing's relationship began, his entire past was thoroughly investigated and delivered to the old man.

_{Acting thoughtless always leads to pay back. He thought, unable to prevent himself from nodded a bit.}
"Relax a bit, I won't eat you. Just play a round with me." Lao Yezi said.

Acting thoughtless always leads to pay back. He thought, unable to prevent himself from nodded a bit.

_{"Just get over there first." Seeing him still staring off blankly, Helian Qing just pulled him towards Lao Yezi and sat him down directly across from the old man, then said indifferently, "Keep Grandad company in the next chess game."}Being well accustomed to Helian Qing's taunts, this look of resentment from that man made him feel somewhat shocked. It was evident that this "Princess Qing" had put him in a bad mood.

"Just get over there first." Seeing him still staring off blankly, Helian Qing just pulled him towards Lao Yezi and sat him down directly across from the old man, then said indifferently, "Keep Grandad company in the next chess game."

_{{After all, as a c*ckRooster, get your minds out the gutter he was unable to lay eggs.}}What is this? Your own grandson brings home a man, and says he wishes to marry him. Shouldn't he face strong opposition from his family? Even though the same-sеx marriage law was passed, it's still new, and a good number of families are still not truly accepting of it.

After all, as a c*ckRooster, get your minds out the gutter he was unable to lay eggs.

_{Within the study, three people sat with not a word exchanged between them. In such a large room the only sounds that could be heard, were the trickling of the poured tea, and the soft clicks of chess pieces against their board.}
Suddenly, Han Yang recalled the times when he and his grandpa also sat around playing chess. Simply thinking of that old man who loved him dearly made him, little by little, unable to help the joy-filled expression that arose on his face, allowing the restlessness within his heart to calm. If he just regarded the old man who now sat before him as just an ordinary old man, it'd probably be okay.

Within the study, three people sat with not a word exchanged between them. In such a large room the only sounds that could be heard, were the trickling of the poured tea, and the soft clicks of chess pieces against their board.

_{Helian Qing was very amused by his reaction, "Don't tell me you're thinking such a silly address as, Wazi, was really intended for me?"}
With this new way of thinking, he nodded, "Okay."

Helian Qing was very amused by his reaction, "Don't tell me you're thinking such a silly address as, Wazi, was really intended for me?"

_{"Really?" Helian Qing shot Han Yang a glance, neither cold nor warmly said, "So why don't you tell us your childhood name, was it Guo DanT/n: dog eggs perhaps?"}Chapter Five

"Really?" Helian Qing shot Han Yang a glance, neither cold nor warmly said, "So why don't you tell us your childhood name, was it Guo DanT/n: dog eggs perhaps?"

_{The two, in unison, turned to face one another, staring. Han Yang suddenly couldn't anymore, his ears began to flush red. Helian Qing remained silent, though the corners of his mouth did faintly curve upwards.}...just why is this guy's mouth so mean!

The two, in unison, turned to face one another, staring. Han Yang suddenly couldn't anymore, his ears began to flush red. Helian Qing remained silent, though the corners of his mouth did faintly curve upwards.

_{How did it go by so quickly? Han Yang was surprised as he never played chess for such a long time, and never did he think that today he would be playing with Helian Qing's grandfather from since earlier in that afternoon. Pretty soon the time was already six-thirty in the evening.}
"What's your name?" Lao Yezi casually asked as he arranged the chess pieces.

How did it go by so quickly? Han Yang was surprised as he never played chess for such a long time, and never did he think that today he would be playing with Helian Qing's grandfather from since earlier in that afternoon. Pretty soon the time was already six-thirty in the evening.

_{After a while, Lao Yezi suddenly called, "WaziT/n: child, come here and accompany this Lao TouziT/n: Old man for the next round."}With this new way of thinking, he nodded, "Okay."

After a while, Lao Yezi suddenly called, "WaziT/n: child, come here and accompany this Lao TouziT/n: Old man for the next round."

_{Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind.}
"Han Yang." Han Yang replied.

Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind. My Grandpa is a chess fiend, so when I younger, I just followed him and learned to play. But before someone like you, my skills cannot dare compareT/n: 班门弄斧: bān mén nòng fǔ: this is an idiom that means to show off your skills in front of someone who's an expert. It's used in a self-deprecating manner, so the last line is where Han Yang uses it.."

_{"..." Han Yang stood awkwardly beside Helian Qing, in that moment, he was unable to refute those words. Helian Qing on the other hand, as one would expect, looked delighted by his helplessness.}
Han Yang knew for certain Lao Yezi wouldn’t have not known his name beforehand. With a that kind of family, he guessed from the moment he and Helian Qing's relationship began, his entire past was thoroughly investigated and delivered to the old man.

"..." Han Yang stood awkwardly beside Helian Qing, in that moment, he was unable to refute those words. Helian Qing on the other hand, as one would expect, looked delighted by his helplessness.

_{Compared to the one he wore just a moment ago, Lao Yezi's expression transformed into an even more friendly one. In looking at Han Yang, he could also see the surge of fondness and admiration that lay in the youth's eyes.}Helian Qing: "Ha Ha, when we go back home, you'll see just how I'll sort you out."

Compared to the one he wore just a moment ago, Lao Yezi's expression transformed into an even more friendly one. In looking at Han Yang, he could also see the surge of fondness and admiration that lay in the youth's eyes. This change was, after all, because of this youngster's ability to keep up with him for so long during a match, when only a handful of others had managed to do so. Han Yang's technique was seasoned, his reasoning—meticulous, skills that can only appear after a lot of training. Not to mention Han Yang's calm, without a trace of impatience, temperament was also very much to his liking.

_{Seeing the deeper meaning behind Helian Qing's stare made a chill run-down Han Yang's back. As expected, he couldn't flaunt his clever quips this time, since this Princess Qing appears to be more like HuanzhuT/n: Princess Huanzhu is also a character from and star of, My Fair Princess. (She's feisty) on the inside, so good at dismissing.}"Come on then, play another round of chess with me." Lao Yezi said.

Seeing the deeper meaning behind Helian Qing's stare made a chill run-down Han Yang's back. As expected, he couldn't flaunt his clever quips this time, since this Princess Qing appears to be more like HuanzhuT/n: Princess Huanzhu is also a character from and star of, My Fair Princess. (She's feisty) on the inside, so good at dismissing.

_{In the final inning, Han Yang still lost though. Saying in a hushed tone, "Lao Yezi, you were difficult to deal withT/n: the word translated as "difficult to deal with" also means "ferocious" and "awesome"."}
After the board was arranged, out of respect, Han Yang allowed Lao Yezi to go first, Lao Yezi on the other hand, gestured with a wave to let him make the first move instead. Han Yang respectfully accepted and thus made the first move.

In the final inning, Han Yang still lost though. Saying in a hushed tone, "Lao Yezi, you were difficult to deal withT/n: the word translated as "difficult to deal with" also means "ferocious" and "awesome"."

_{Um, please forgive him for that self-description, the situation was proving to be beyond his abilities to comprehend.}
One move after the other, the two players carried on with their match as Helian Qing sat beside them looking on, not uttering a peep.

Um, please forgive him for that self-description, the situation was proving to be beyond his abilities to comprehend.

_{After a while, Lao Yezi suddenly called, "WaziT/n: child, come here and accompany this Lao TouziT/n: Old man for the next round."}
For almost half an hour, the match continued. At first, Lao Yezi made his moves carelessly, but soon he discovered his opponent wasn't one to be underestimated. After noticing the difference in Han Yang's gaze, his moves became increasingly more cautious.

After a while, Lao Yezi suddenly called, "WaziT/n: child, come here and accompany this Lao TouziT/n: Old man for the next round."

_{Seeing the deeper meaning behind Helian Qing's stare made a chill run-down Han Yang's back. As expected, he couldn't flaunt his clever quips this time, since this Princess Qing appears to be more like HuanzhuT/n: Princess Huanzhu is also a character from and star of, My Fair Princess. (She's feisty) on the inside, so good at dismissing.}After a while, Lao Yezi suddenly called, "WaziT/n: child, come here and accompany this Lao TouziT/n: Old man for the next round."

Seeing the deeper meaning behind Helian Qing's stare made a chill run-down Han Yang's back. As expected, he couldn't flaunt his clever quips this time, since this Princess Qing appears to be more like HuanzhuT/n: Princess Huanzhu is also a character from and star of, My Fair Princess. (She's feisty) on the inside, so good at dismissing.

_"That..
In the final inning, Han Yang still lost though. Saying in a hushed tone, "Lao Yezi, you were difficult to deal withT/n: the word translated as "difficult to deal with" also means "ferocious" and "awesome"."

"That... Princess QingT/n: Princess Qing, aka Qing'er, is a character from a famous TV series, My Fair Princess.?" Admittedly, Han Yang really was doing it on purpose. Before, with Helian Qing's cheap mouth he could only choke back his words of annoyance but now, at this moment, it was as if they had finally found their escape, and it was simply refreshing. Especially when seeing Helian Qing's ears appear unnaturally flushed due to his rage. Though, he must admit, he was a bit sceptical at that reaction, and wondered if that man could've possibly instead been a teensy bit embarrassed.

_{"Why are you just standing there?" Helian Qing asked when he noticed Han Yang just stood there, dumbfounded.}
Compared to the one he wore just a moment ago, Lao Yezi's expression transformed into an even more friendly one. In looking at Han Yang, he could also see the surge of fondness and admiration that lay in the youth's eyes. This change was, after all, because of this youngster's ability to keep up with him for so long during a match, when only a handful of others had managed to do so. Han Yang's technique was seasoned, his reasoning—meticulous, skills that can only appear after a lot of training. Not to mention Han Yang's calm, without a trace of impatience, temperament was also very much to his liking.

"Why are you just standing there?" Helian Qing asked when he noticed Han Yang just stood there, dumbfounded.

_{"Han Yang and Helian Qing left right after, with the latter mentioning, "Your chess skills aren't that bad, huh."}
"Your chess skills are pretty good. You nearly got me, giving me quite the run-around." Lao Yezi said with admiration, "How long have you been playing?"

"Han Yang and Helian Qing left right after, with the latter mentioning, "Your chess skills aren't that bad, huh."

_{Compared to the one he wore just a moment ago, Lao Yezi's expression transformed into an even more friendly one. In looking at Han Yang, he could also see the surge of fondness and admiration that lay in the youth's eyes.}"You should go get some rest." Helian Qing said apathetically.

Compared to the one he wore just a moment ago, Lao Yezi's expression transformed into an even more friendly one. In looking at Han Yang, he could also see the surge of fondness and admiration that lay in the youth's eyes. This change was, after all, because of this youngster's ability to keep up with him for so long during a match, when only a handful of others had managed to do so. Han Yang's technique was seasoned, his reasoning—meticulous, skills that can only appear after a lot of training. Not to mention Han Yang's calm, without a trace of impatience, temperament was also very much to his liking.

_{Um, please forgive him for that self-description, the situation was proving to be beyond his abilities to comprehend.}Helian Qing was very amused by his reaction, "Don't tell me you're thinking such a silly address as, Wazi, was really intended for me?"

Um, please forgive him for that self-description, the situation was proving to be beyond his abilities to comprehend.

_{Han Yang sat stiffly in his seat, with neither his hands nor feet quite knowing where they should rest. Only after noting the gentle expression adorning Lao Yezi's face, was he able to finally relax, if only just a little. Perhaps this situation wasn't as bad as he thought, at least it was nothing like he had expected—him to be cursed then driven out.}
Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind. My Grandpa is a chess fiend, so when I younger, I just followed him and learned to play. But before someone like you, my skills cannot dare compareT/n: 班门弄斧: bān mén nòng fǔ: this is an idiom that means to show off your skills in front of someone who's an expert. It's used in a self-deprecating manner, so the last line is where Han Yang uses it.."

Han Yang sat stiffly in his seat, with neither his hands nor feet quite knowing where they should rest. Only after noting the gentle expression adorning Lao Yezi's face, was he able to finally relax, if only just a little. Perhaps this situation wasn't as bad as he thought, at least it was nothing like he had expected—him to be cursed then driven out.

_{"What are you thinking about?" Helian Qing asked.}Helian Qing saw by his expression, he was trying to figure out the right response. His face face gradually darkened, and with a scoff, he strode off ahead of him.

"What are you thinking about?" Helian Qing asked.

_{The two, in unison, turned to face one another, staring. Han Yang suddenly couldn't anymore, his ears began to flush red. Helian Qing remained silent, though the corners of his mouth did faintly curve upwards.}After the board was arranged, out of respect, Han Yang allowed Lao Yezi to go first, Lao Yezi on the other hand, gestured with a wave to let him make the first move instead. Han Yang respectfully accepted and thus made the first move.

The two, in unison, turned to face one another, staring. Han Yang suddenly couldn't anymore, his ears began to flush red. Helian Qing remained silent, though the corners of his mouth did faintly curve upwards.

_{Helian Qing didn't believe him, so much so, he was about to speak but Lao Yezi suddenly interjected, "Come on, stop flirting in public."}
In his childhood years, he would often accompany his grandfather who played chess with the old men of their village. Seeing that for so long, he naturally developed an interest in the game, so his grandpa personally taught him for many years.

Helian Qing didn't believe him, so much so, he was about to speak but Lao Yezi suddenly interjected, "Come on, stop flirting in public."

_{"Alright." Han Yang nodded.}Qing'erT/n: it's common to add, 儿: er, to the name of a younger family member. ?

"Alright." Han Yang nodded.

_{"Your chess skills are pretty good. You nearly got me, giving me quite the run-around." Lao Yezi said with admiration, "How long have you been playing?"}
"Lao Yezi, doesn't mind being called Lao Yezi by you but it does sound kind of awkward." Lao Yezi took the cup of tea handed to him by Helian Qing, drinking a sip, then to Han Yang said, "So since you and Qing'er are to be wed, you might as well start calling me grandad too."

"Your chess skills are pretty good. You nearly got me, giving me quite the run-around." Lao Yezi said with admiration, "How long have you been playing?"

_{For almost half an hour, the match continued. At first, Lao Yezi made his moves carelessly, but soon he discovered his opponent wasn't one to be underestimated. After noticing the difference in Han Yang's gaze, his moves became increasingly more cautious.}Qing'erT/n: it's common to add, 儿: er, to the name of a younger family member. ?

For almost half an hour, the match continued. At first, Lao Yezi made his moves carelessly, but soon he discovered his opponent wasn't one to be underestimated. After noticing the difference in Han Yang's gaze, his moves became increasingly more cautious.

_{Lao Yezi lowered his head, paying no attention to the peculiar actions of the two, arranging the chess board as he spoke, "Qing'er is a nickname. Originally, we thought he'd be born a girl, so we chose the name Helian Qing'er. Who knew he would turn out to be a boy? We changed his name to Helian Qing later and calling him Qing'er just became his childhood name."}
Qing'erT/n: it's common to add, 儿: er, to the name of a younger family member. ?

Lao Yezi lowered his head, paying no attention to the peculiar actions of the two, arranging the chess board as he spoke, "Qing'er is a nickname. Originally, we thought he'd be born a girl, so we chose the name Helian Qing'er. Who knew he would turn out to be a boy? We changed his name to Helian Qing later and calling him Qing'er just became his childhood name."

_{"Alright." Han Yang nodded.}Helian Qing: "..."

"Alright." Han Yang nodded.

_N/A Upon hearing his request, Han Yang unconsciously stood up, but he did not go over just yet.

N/A

_{"That's very nice to hear. In my hometown they also have the custom of giving childhood names to kids as well." Han Yang smiled, ignoring the frosty air emanating from the one beside him. It was a rare chance to make Helian Qing suffer a defeat, how could he let such a moment slip by in vain.}
Han Yang, bewildered, involuntarily turned his head towards the man sitting beside him just to see the expressionless face donned by Helian Qing, who sat there as if he wasn't being referred to by that name. With a touch of hesitance, Han Yang inquired, "...Qing'er?"

"That's very nice to hear. In my hometown they also have the custom of giving childhood names to kids as well." Han Yang smiled, ignoring the frosty air emanating from the one beside him. It was a rare chance to make Helian Qing suffer a defeat, how could he let such a moment slip by in vain.

_{Han Yang was seriously unable to bear his ridicule.}Qing'erT/n: it's common to add, 儿: er, to the name of a younger family member. ?

Han Yang was seriously unable to bear his ridicule.

_{Han Yang sat stiffly in his seat, with neither his hands nor feet quite knowing where they should rest. Only after noting the gentle expression adorning Lao Yezi's face, was he able to finally relax, if only just a little. Perhaps this situation wasn't as bad as he thought, at least it was nothing like he had expected—him to be cursed then driven out.}"..." The change in Helian Qing's expression was obvious as he looked towards Han Yang sporting a resentful glare, "What stupid thing are you asking? Did playing a game of chess for so long give you courage?"

Han Yang sat stiffly in his seat, with neither his hands nor feet quite knowing where they should rest. Only after noting the gentle expression adorning Lao Yezi's face, was he able to finally relax, if only just a little. Perhaps this situation wasn't as bad as he thought, at least it was nothing like he had expected—him to be cursed then driven out.

_{"Lao TouziT/n: Lao Touzi is more casual, personal form of address here. Han Yang's speech became friendlier., I haven't enjoyed myself so much in such a long time. You really should go, get downstairs for dinner." Lao Yezi stood up and left the room.}
"..." The change in Helian Qing's expression was obvious as he looked towards Han Yang sporting a resentful glare, "What stupid thing are you asking? Did playing a game of chess for so long give you courage?"

"Lao TouziT/n: Lao Touzi is more casual, personal form of address here. Han Yang's speech became friendlier., I haven't enjoyed myself so much in such a long time. You really should go, get downstairs for dinner." Lao Yezi stood up and left the room.

_{"Lao Yezi, doesn't mind being called Lao Yezi by you but it does sound kind of awkward." Lao Yezi took the cup of tea handed to him by Helian Qing, drinking a sip, then to Han Yang said, "So since you and Qing'er are to be wed, you might as well start calling me grandad too."}Qing'erT/n: it's common to add, 儿: er, to the name of a younger family member. ?

"Lao Yezi, doesn't mind being called Lao Yezi by you but it does sound kind of awkward." Lao Yezi took the cup of tea handed to him by Helian Qing, drinking a sip, then to Han Yang said, "So since you and Qing'er are to be wed, you might as well start calling me grandad too."

_{Helian Qing: "Ha Ha, when we go back home, you'll see just how I'll sort you out."}"You should go get some rest." Helian Qing said apathetically.

Helian Qing: "Ha Ha, when we go back home, you'll see just how I'll sort you out."

_{Helian Qing didn't believe him, so much so, he was about to speak but Lao Yezi suddenly interjected, "Come on, stop flirting in public."}Helian Qing didn't believe him, so much so, he was about to speak but Lao Yezi suddenly interjected, "Come on, stop flirting in public."

Helian Qing didn't believe him, so much so, he was about to speak but Lao Yezi suddenly interjected, "Come on, stop flirting in public."

_{For almost half an hour, the match continued. At first, Lao Yezi made his moves carelessly, but soon he discovered his opponent wasn't one to be underestimated. After noticing the difference in Han Yang's gaze, his moves became increasingly more cautious.}
"That... Princess QingT/n: Princess Qing, aka Qing'er, is a character from a famous TV series, My Fair Princess.?" Admittedly, Han Yang really was doing it on purpose. Before, with Helian Qing's cheap mouth he could only choke back his words of annoyance but now, at this moment, it was as if they had finally found their escape, and it was simply refreshing. Especially when seeing Helian Qing's ears appear unnaturally flushed due to his rage. Though, he must admit, he was a bit sceptical at that reaction, and wondered if that man could've possibly instead been a teensy bit embarrassed.

For almost half an hour, the match continued. At first, Lao Yezi made his moves carelessly, but soon he discovered his opponent wasn't one to be underestimated. After noticing the difference in Han Yang's gaze, his moves became increasingly more cautious.

_{To the "are you stupid or something" expression on his face, Han Yang turned a blind eye, then whispered, "He's your grandfather, why wouldn't he be calling for you?"}After a while, Lao Yezi suddenly called, "WaziT/n: child, come here and accompany this Lao TouziT/n: Old man for the next round."

To the "are you stupid or something" expression on his face, Han Yang turned a blind eye, then whispered, "He's your grandfather, why wouldn't he be calling for you?"

_{Chapter Five}
"Don't take a mile when you're only given an inch." Helian Qing said.

Chapter Five

_{{After all, as a c*ckRooster, get your minds out the gutter he was unable to lay eggs.}}Within the study, three people sat with not a word exchanged between them. In such a large room the only sounds that could be heard, were the trickling of the poured tea, and the soft clicks of chess pieces against their board.

After all, as a c*ckRooster, get your minds out the gutter he was unable to lay eggs.

_{Han Yang picked up a chess piece but halted, unsure of whether he should as he suddenly felt that Lao Yezi getting some rest might not have been a bad idea. No more than a second later he heard Helian Qing say, "Oh, then just don't rest, let him just keep playing chess with you."}For almost half an hour, the match continued. At first, Lao Yezi made his moves carelessly, but soon he discovered his opponent wasn't one to be underestimated. After noticing the difference in Han Yang's gaze, his moves became increasingly more cautious.

Han Yang picked up a chess piece but halted, unsure of whether he should as he suddenly felt that Lao Yezi getting some rest might not have been a bad idea. No more than a second later he heard Helian Qing say, "Oh, then just don't rest, let him just keep playing chess with you."

_{"You should go get some rest." Helian Qing said apathetically.}
Han Yang: "I also just gave an inch to lose a mile."

"You should go get some rest." Helian Qing said apathetically.

_{Helian Qing: "Ha Ha, when we go back home, you'll see just how I'll sort you out."}
Helian Qing: "Ha Ha, when we go back home, you'll see just how I'll sort you out."

Helian Qing: "Ha Ha, when we go back home, you'll see just how I'll sort you out."

_{Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind.}"You should go get some rest." Helian Qing said apathetically.

Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind. My Grandpa is a chess fiend, so when I younger, I just followed him and learned to play. But before someone like you, my skills cannot dare compareT/n: 班门弄斧: bān mén nòng fǔ: this is an idiom that means to show off your skills in front of someone who's an expert. It's used in a self-deprecating manner, so the last line is where Han Yang uses it.."

_{"Why did you say something like that?" Lao Yezi raised his head to look at Helian Qing.}
Being well accustomed to Helian Qing's taunts, this look of resentment from that man made him feel somewhat shocked. It was evident that this "Princess Qing" had put him in a bad mood.

"Why did you say something like that?" Lao Yezi raised his head to look at Helian Qing.

_{In the final inning, Han Yang still lost though. Saying in a hushed tone, "Lao Yezi, you were difficult to deal withT/n: the word translated as "difficult to deal with" also means "ferocious" and "awesome"."}"Han Yang." Han Yang replied.

In the final inning, Han Yang still lost though. Saying in a hushed tone, "Lao Yezi, you were difficult to deal withT/n: the word translated as "difficult to deal with" also means "ferocious" and "awesome"."

_{Qing'erT/n: it's common to add, 儿: er, to the name of a younger family member. ?}Um, please forgive him for that self-description, the situation was proving to be beyond his abilities to comprehend.

Qing'erT/n: it's common to add, 儿: er, to the name of a younger family member. ?

_{Han Yang knew for certain Lao Yezi wouldn’t have not known his name beforehand. With a that kind of family, he guessed from the moment he and Helian Qing's relationship began, his entire past was thoroughly investigated and delivered to the old man.}After all, as a c*ckRooster, get your minds out the gutter he was unable to lay eggs.

Han Yang knew for certain Lao Yezi wouldn’t have not known his name beforehand. With a that kind of family, he guessed from the moment he and Helian Qing's relationship began, his entire past was thoroughly investigated and delivered to the old man.

_{Qing'erT/n: it's common to add, 儿: er, to the name of a younger family member. ?}
Acting thoughtless always leads to pay back. He thought, unable to prevent himself from nodded a bit.

Qing'erT/n: it's common to add, 儿: er, to the name of a younger family member. ?

_{Helian Qing: "Ha Ha, when we go back home, you'll see just how I'll sort you out."}After all, as a c*ckRooster, get your minds out the gutter he was unable to lay eggs.

Helian Qing: "Ha Ha, when we go back home, you'll see just how I'll sort you out."

_{After the board was arranged, out of respect, Han Yang allowed Lao Yezi to go first, Lao Yezi on the other hand, gestured with a wave to let him make the first move instead. Han Yang respectfully accepted and thus made the first move.}Han Yang, bewildered, involuntarily turned his head towards the man sitting beside him just to see the expressionless face donned by Helian Qing, who sat there as if he wasn't being referred to by that name. With a touch of hesitance, Han Yang inquired, "...Qing'er?"

After the board was arranged, out of respect, Han Yang allowed Lao Yezi to go first, Lao Yezi on the other hand, gestured with a wave to let him make the first move instead. Han Yang respectfully accepted and thus made the first move.

_{"Huh?" Han Yang softly exclaimed, lifting his head to look at Helian Qing who was now standing beside him, then to Lao Yezi who still sat where he was. Could it be when he called for, Wazi, he was referring to Helian Qing?}
"What are you thinking about?" Helian Qing asked.

"Huh?" Han Yang softly exclaimed, lifting his head to look at Helian Qing who was now standing beside him, then to Lao Yezi who still sat where he was. Could it be when he called for, Wazi, he was referring to Helian Qing?

_{Han Yang said in his heart.}
"Nothing." Han Yang responded, shaking his head.

Han Yang said in his heart.

_{Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind.}Helian Qing was very amused by his reaction, "Don't tell me you're thinking such a silly address as, Wazi, was really intended for me?"

Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind. My Grandpa is a chess fiend, so when I younger, I just followed him and learned to play. But before someone like you, my skills cannot dare compareT/n: 班门弄斧: bān mén nòng fǔ: this is an idiom that means to show off your skills in front of someone who's an expert. It's used in a self-deprecating manner, so the last line is where Han Yang uses it.."

_{Suddenly, Han Yang recalled the times when he and his grandpa also sat around playing chess. Simply thinking of that old man who loved him dearly made him, little by little, unable to help the joy-filled expression that arose on his face, allowing the restlessness within his heart to calm. If he just regarded the old man who now sat before him as just an ordinary old man, it'd probably be okay.}
Helian Qing didn't believe him, so much so, he was about to speak but Lao Yezi suddenly interjected, "Come on, stop flirting in public."

Suddenly, Han Yang recalled the times when he and his grandpa also sat around playing chess. Simply thinking of that old man who loved him dearly made him, little by little, unable to help the joy-filled expression that arose on his face, allowing the restlessness within his heart to calm. If he just regarded the old man who now sat before him as just an ordinary old man, it'd probably be okay.

_{"That's very nice to hear. In my hometown they also have the custom of giving childhood names to kids as well." Han Yang smiled, ignoring the frosty air emanating from the one beside him. It was a rare chance to make Helian Qing suffer a defeat, how could he let such a moment slip by in vain.} "Your chess skills are pretty good. You nearly got me, giving me quite the run-around." Lao Yezi said with admiration, "How long have you been playing?"

"That's very nice to hear. In my hometown they also have the custom of giving childhood names to kids as well." Han Yang smiled, ignoring the frosty air emanating from the one beside him. It was a rare chance to make Helian Qing suffer a defeat, how could he let such a moment slip by in vain.

_{"Do you know how to play?" Lao Yezi disrupted his original game then began separating the chess pieces. Seeing this, Han Yang quickly started sorting the pieces with him, politely replying, "Yes, a little."}Compared to the one he wore just a moment ago, Lao Yezi's expression transformed into an even more friendly one. In looking at Han Yang, he could also see the surge of fondness and admiration that lay in the youth's eyes. This change was, after all, because of this youngster's ability to keep up with him for so long during a match, when only a handful of others had managed to do so. Han Yang's technique was seasoned, his reasoning—meticulous, skills that can only appear after a lot of training. Not to mention Han Yang's calm, without a trace of impatience, temperament was also very much to his liking.

"Do you know how to play?" Lao Yezi disrupted his original game then began separating the chess pieces. Seeing this, Han Yang quickly started sorting the pieces with him, politely replying, "Yes, a little."

_{Who could've known that the instant he finished those words, Lao Yezi would put down the chess piece onto the board with a clack, lifting his head, "How could you say that? Since you're together with Helian Qing, why wouldn't I be your grandfather?"}
Helian Qing: "..."

Who could've known that the instant he finished those words, Lao Yezi would put down the chess piece onto the board with a clack, lifting his head, "How could you say that? Since you're together with Helian Qing, why wouldn't I be your grandfather?"

_{Little by little, time passed by as the two people played their game of chess. A servant even came up to announce it was already time for dinner, yet Lao Yezi still wished to continue playing.}"..." The change in Helian Qing's expression was obvious as he looked towards Han Yang sporting a resentful glare, "What stupid thing are you asking? Did playing a game of chess for so long give you courage?"

Little by little, time passed by as the two people played their game of chess. A servant even came up to announce it was already time for dinner, yet Lao Yezi still wished to continue playing.

_{"Your chess skills are pretty good. You nearly got me, giving me quite the run-around." Lao Yezi said with admiration, "How long have you been playing?"}Being well accustomed to Helian Qing's taunts, this look of resentment from that man made him feel somewhat shocked. It was evident that this "Princess Qing" had put him in a bad mood.

"Your chess skills are pretty good. You nearly got me, giving me quite the run-around." Lao Yezi said with admiration, "How long have you been playing?"

_{Guo Dan is used as a nickname under the belief that if jealous spirits search for you to snatch away your life, having such a ridiculous name will make it look like you're not a person.}
Han Yang: "..."

Guo Dan is used as a nickname under the belief that if jealous spirits search for you to snatch away your life, having such a ridiculous name will make it look like you're not a person. Guo Dan also lit. means Dog Eggs. Dog is used as an insult sometimes and Egg is prominent in a lot of curses, e.g., 王八蛋: Wang Ba Dan: son of a tortoise, aka, Son of a b*tch. So, another way to interpret, Guo Dan (son of a dog) is sonovabiіtch.[]Princess Huanzhu is in the gif above. As you can see, she's looks like a spitfire.[]A pic of Princess Qing'er below. 💖✴Princess Qing'er✴💖

_{One move after the other, the two players carried on with their match as Helian Qing sat beside them looking on, not uttering a peep.}
The two, in unison, turned to face one another, staring. Han Yang suddenly couldn't anymore, his ears began to flush red. Helian Qing remained silent, though the corners of his mouth did faintly curve upwards.

One move after the other, the two players carried on with their match as Helian Qing sat beside them looking on, not uttering a peep.

_{"What's your name?" Lao Yezi casually asked as he arranged the chess pieces.}"..." Han Yang stood awkwardly beside Helian Qing, in that moment, he was unable to refute those words. Helian Qing on the other hand, as one would expect, looked delighted by his helplessness.

"What's your name?" Lao Yezi casually asked as he arranged the chess pieces.

_{Han Yang picked up a chess piece but halted, unsure of whether he should as he suddenly felt that Lao Yezi getting some rest might not have been a bad idea. No more than a second later he heard Helian Qing say, "Oh, then just don't rest, let him just keep playing chess with you."}
Lao Yezi lowered his head, paying no attention to the peculiar actions of the two, arranging the chess board as he spoke, "Qing'er is a nickname. Originally, we thought he'd be born a girl, so we chose the name Helian Qing'er. Who knew he would turn out to be a boy? We changed his name to Helian Qing later and calling him Qing'er just became his childhood name."

Han Yang picked up a chess piece but halted, unsure of whether he should as he suddenly felt that Lao Yezi getting some rest might not have been a bad idea. No more than a second later he heard Helian Qing say, "Oh, then just don't rest, let him just keep playing chess with you."

_{{...just why is this guy's mouth so mean!}}"Don't take a mile when you're only given an inch." Helian Qing said.

...just why is this guy's mouth so mean!

_{Han Yang knew for certain Lao Yezi wouldn’t have not known his name beforehand. With a that kind of family, he guessed from the moment he and Helian Qing's relationship began, his entire past was thoroughly investigated and delivered to the old man.}"Really?" Helian Qing shot Han Yang a glance, neither cold nor warmly said, "So why don't you tell us your childhood name, was it Guo DanT/n: dog eggs perhaps?"

Han Yang knew for certain Lao Yezi wouldn’t have not known his name beforehand. With a that kind of family, he guessed from the moment he and Helian Qing's relationship began, his entire past was thoroughly investigated and delivered to the old man.

_{"Nothing." Han Yang responded, shaking his head.}
"That's very nice to hear. In my hometown they also have the custom of giving childhood names to kids as well." Han Yang smiled, ignoring the frosty air emanating from the one beside him. It was a rare chance to make Helian Qing suffer a defeat, how could he let such a moment slip by in vain.

"Nothing." Han Yang responded, shaking his head.

_{{After all, as a c*ckRooster, get your minds out the gutter he was unable to lay eggs.}}N/A

After all, as a c*ckRooster, get your minds out the gutter he was unable to lay eggs.

_{"Just get over there first." Seeing him still staring off blankly, Helian Qing just pulled him towards Lao Yezi and sat him down directly across from the old man, then said indifferently, "Keep Grandad company in the next chess game."}
"Really?" Helian Qing shot Han Yang a glance, neither cold nor warmly said, "So why don't you tell us your childhood name, was it Guo DanT/n: dog eggs^[1] perhaps?"

"Just get over there first." Seeing him still staring off blankly, Helian Qing just pulled him towards Lao Yezi and sat him down directly across from the old man, then said indifferently, "Keep Grandad company in the next chess game."

_{After the board was arranged, out of respect, Han Yang allowed Lao Yezi to go first, Lao Yezi on the other hand, gestured with a wave to let him make the first move instead. Han Yang respectfully accepted and thus made the first move.}
Han Yang: "..."

After the board was arranged, out of respect, Han Yang allowed Lao Yezi to go first, Lao Yezi on the other hand, gestured with a wave to let him make the first move instead. Han Yang respectfully accepted and thus made the first move.

_{{How did it go by so quickly?} Han Yang was surprised as he never played chess for such a long time, and never did he think that today he would be playing with Helian Qing's grandfather from since earlier in that afternoon. Pretty soon the time was already six-thirty in the evening.}N/A

How did it go by so quickly? Han Yang was surprised as he never played chess for such a long time, and never did he think that today he would be playing with Helian Qing's grandfather from since earlier in that afternoon. Pretty soon the time was already six-thirty in the evening.

_{Han Yang picked up a chess piece but halted, unsure of whether he should as he suddenly felt that Lao Yezi getting some rest might not have been a bad idea. No more than a second later he heard Helian Qing say, "Oh, then just don't rest, let him just keep playing chess with you."}"Huh?" Han Yang softly exclaimed, lifting his head to look at Helian Qing who was now standing beside him, then to Lao Yezi who still sat where he was. Could it be when he called for, Wazi, he was referring to Helian Qing?

Han Yang picked up a chess piece but halted, unsure of whether he should as he suddenly felt that Lao Yezi getting some rest might not have been a bad idea. No more than a second later he heard Helian Qing say, "Oh, then just don't rest, let him just keep playing chess with you."

_{Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind.}What is this? Your own grandson brings home a man, and says he wishes to marry him. Shouldn't he face strong opposition from his family? Even though the same-sеx marriage law was passed, it's still new, and a good number of families are still not truly accepting of it.

Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind. My Grandpa is a chess fiend, so when I younger, I just followed him and learned to play. But before someone like you, my skills cannot dare compareT/n: 班门弄斧: bān mén nòng fǔ: this is an idiom that means to show off your skills in front of someone who's an expert. It's used in a self-deprecating manner, so the last line is where Han Yang uses it.."

_{...just why is this guy's mouth so mean!}
Seeing the deeper meaning behind Helian Qing's stare made a chill run-down Han Yang's back. As expected, he couldn't flaunt his clever quips this time, since this Princess Qing appears to be more like HuanzhuT/n: Princess Huanzhu is also a character from and star of, My Fair Princess. (She's feisty) on the inside, so good at dismissing.

...just why is this guy's mouth so mean!

_N/A His tone made it unclear whether his statement was one of praise, Han Yang simply stared at him, just as he continued speaking, "Dropping by for a chess game, and your husband's presence slips your mind too. I'm trying to decide whether I should give you a chess set, do you want to go set up a stall on the street?"

N/A

_{"Lao Yezi, doesn't mind being called Lao Yezi by you but it does sound kind of awkward." Lao Yezi took the cup of tea handed to him by Helian Qing, drinking a sip, then to Han Yang said, "So since you and Qing'er are to be wed, you might as well start calling me grandad too."}
"Why did you say something like that?" Lao Yezi raised his head to look at Helian Qing.

"Lao Yezi, doesn't mind being called Lao Yezi by you but it does sound kind of awkward." Lao Yezi took the cup of tea handed to him by Helian Qing, drinking a sip, then to Han Yang said, "So since you and Qing'er are to be wed, you might as well start calling me grandad too."

_{Han Yang: "..."}
"You should go get some rest." Helian Qing said apathetically.

Han Yang: "..."

_{Suddenly, Han Yang recalled the times when he and his grandpa also sat around playing chess. Simply thinking of that old man who loved him dearly made him, little by little, unable to help the joy-filled expression that arose on his face, allowing the restlessness within his heart to calm. If he just regarded the old man who now sat before him as just an ordinary old man, it'd probably be okay.}Han Yang picked up a chess piece but halted, unsure of whether he should as he suddenly felt that Lao Yezi getting some rest might not have been a bad idea. No more than a second later he heard Helian Qing say, "Oh, then just don't rest, let him just keep playing chess with you."

Suddenly, Han Yang recalled the times when he and his grandpa also sat around playing chess. Simply thinking of that old man who loved him dearly made him, little by little, unable to help the joy-filled expression that arose on his face, allowing the restlessness within his heart to calm. If he just regarded the old man who now sat before him as just an ordinary old man, it'd probably be okay.

_{The two, in unison, turned to face one another, staring. Han Yang suddenly couldn't anymore, his ears began to flush red. Helian Qing remained silent, though the corners of his mouth did faintly curve upwards.}Guo Dan is used as a nickname under the belief that if jealous spirits search for you to snatch away your life, having such a ridiculous name will make it look like you're not a person. Guo Dan also lit. means Dog Eggs. Dog is used as an insult sometimes and Egg is prominent in a lot of curses, e.g., 王八蛋: Wang Ba Dan: son of a tortoise, aka, Son of a b*tch. So, another way to interpret, Guo Dan (son of a dog) is sonovabiіtch.[]Princess Huanzhu is in the gif above. As you can see, she's looks like a spitfire.[]A pic of Princess Qing'er below. 💖✴Princess Qing'er✴💖

The two, in unison, turned to face one another, staring. Han Yang suddenly couldn't anymore, his ears began to flush red. Helian Qing remained silent, though the corners of his mouth did faintly curve upwards.

_{"Come on then, play another round of chess with me." Lao Yezi said.}How did it go by so quickly? Han Yang was surprised as he never played chess for such a long time, and never did he think that today he would be playing with Helian Qing's grandfather from since earlier in that afternoon. Pretty soon the time was already six-thirty in the evening.

"Come on then, play another round of chess with me." Lao Yezi said.

_N/A
Lao Yezi's attention rose away from his chess game, it was clear he was not very pleased with Helian Qing's interruption, waved aside and said, " You should go get some rest. Before when you were a kid, why didn't I realise how troublesome you are? You never had any time to play chess with me and now you want to your wife to do the same."

N/A

_{Han Yang picked up a chess piece but halted, unsure of whether he should as he suddenly felt that Lao Yezi getting some rest might not have been a bad idea. No more than a second later he heard Helian Qing say, "Oh, then just don't rest, let him just keep playing chess with you."}"What are you thinking about?" Helian Qing asked.

Han Yang picked up a chess piece but halted, unsure of whether he should as he suddenly felt that Lao Yezi getting some rest might not have been a bad idea. No more than a second later he heard Helian Qing say, "Oh, then just don't rest, let him just keep playing chess with you."

_{"..." The change in Helian Qing's expression was obvious as he looked towards Han Yang sporting a resentful glare, "What stupid thing are you asking? Did playing a game of chess for so long give you courage?"}"..." The change in Helian Qing's expression was obvious as he looked towards Han Yang sporting a resentful glare, "What stupid thing are you asking? Did playing a game of chess for so long give you courage?"

"..." The change in Helian Qing's expression was obvious as he looked towards Han Yang sporting a resentful glare, "What stupid thing are you asking? Did playing a game of chess for so long give you courage?"

_{"What's your name?" Lao Yezi casually asked as he arranged the chess pieces.}
Han Yang picked up a chess piece but halted, unsure of whether he should as he suddenly felt that Lao Yezi getting some rest might not have been a bad idea. No more than a second later he heard Helian Qing say, "Oh, then just don't rest, let him just keep playing chess with you."

"What's your name?" Lao Yezi casually asked as he arranged the chess pieces.

_{{...just why is this guy's mouth so mean!}}His tone made it unclear whether his statement was one of praise, Han Yang simply stared at him, just as he continued speaking, "Dropping by for a chess game, and your husband's presence slips your mind too. I'm trying to decide whether I should give you a chess set, do you want to go set up a stall on the street?"

...just why is this guy's mouth so mean!

_{Han Yang knew for certain Lao Yezi wouldn’t have not known his name beforehand. With a that kind of family, he guessed from the moment he and Helian Qing's relationship began, his entire past was thoroughly investigated and delivered to the old man.}Guo Dan is used as a nickname under the belief that if jealous spirits search for you to snatch away your life, having such a ridiculous name will make it look like you're not a person. Guo Dan also lit. means Dog Eggs. Dog is used as an insult sometimes and Egg is prominent in a lot of curses, e.g., 王八蛋: Wang Ba Dan: son of a tortoise, aka, Son of a b*tch. So, another way to interpret, Guo Dan (son of a dog) is sonovabiіtch.[]Princess Huanzhu is in the gif above. As you can see, she's looks like a spitfire.[]A pic of Princess Qing'er below. 💖✴Princess Qing'er✴💖

Han Yang knew for certain Lao Yezi wouldn’t have not known his name beforehand. With a that kind of family, he guessed from the moment he and Helian Qing's relationship began, his entire past was thoroughly investigated and delivered to the old man.

_{One move after the other, the two players carried on with their match as Helian Qing sat beside them looking on, not uttering a peep.}"..." The change in Helian Qing's expression was obvious as he looked towards Han Yang sporting a resentful glare, "What stupid thing are you asking? Did playing a game of chess for so long give you courage?"

One move after the other, the two players carried on with their match as Helian Qing sat beside them looking on, not uttering a peep.

_{What is this? Your own grandson brings home a man, and says he wishes to marry him. Shouldn't he face strong opposition from his family? Even though the same-sеx marriage law was passed, it's still new, and a good number of families are still not truly accepting of it.}
Han Yang: "..."

What is this? Your own grandson brings home a man, and says he wishes to marry him. Shouldn't he face strong opposition from his family? Even though the same-sеx marriage law was passed, it's still new, and a good number of families are still not truly accepting of it.

_{His tone made it unclear whether his statement was one of praise, Han Yang simply stared at him, just as he continued speaking, "Dropping by for a chess game, and your husband's presence slips your mind too. I'm trying to decide whether I should give you a chess set, do you want to go set up a stall on the street?"}
"Come on then, play another round of chess with me." Lao Yezi said.

His tone made it unclear whether his statement was one of praise, Han Yang simply stared at him, just as he continued speaking, "Dropping by for a chess game, and your husband's presence slips your mind too. I'm trying to decide whether I should give you a chess set, do you want to go set up a stall on the street?"

_{"Do you know how to play?" Lao Yezi disrupted his original game then began separating the chess pieces. Seeing this, Han Yang quickly started sorting the pieces with him, politely replying, "Yes, a little."}
"Alright." Han Yang nodded.

"Do you know how to play?" Lao Yezi disrupted his original game then began separating the chess pieces. Seeing this, Han Yang quickly started sorting the pieces with him, politely replying, "Yes, a little."

_{{What is this? Your own grandson brings home a man, and says he wishes to marry him. Shouldn't he face strong opposition from his family? Even though the same-sеx marriage law was passed, it's still new, and a good number of families are still not truly accepting of it.}}Han Yang: "..."

What is this? Your own grandson brings home a man, and says he wishes to marry him. Shouldn't he face strong opposition from his family? Even though the same-sеx marriage law was passed, it's still new, and a good number of families are still not truly accepting of it.

_{The two, in unison, turned to face one another, staring. Han Yang suddenly couldn't anymore, his ears began to flush red. Helian Qing remained silent, though the corners of his mouth did faintly curve upwards.}Because of their match, Han Yang's manner towards Lao Yezi also was not as it was just moments ago—unfamiliar and revered. He smiled, then modestly replied, "Lao Yezi's words were too kind. My Grandpa is a chess fiend, so when I younger, I just followed him and learned to play. But before someone like you, my skills cannot dare compareT/n: 班门弄斧: bān mén nòng fǔ: this is an idiom that means to show off your skills in front of someone who's an expert. It's used in a self-deprecating manner, so the last line is where Han Yang uses it.."

The two, in unison, turned to face one another, staring. Han Yang suddenly couldn't anymore, his ears began to flush red. Helian Qing remained silent, though the corners of his mouth did faintly curve upwards.

_{Calmly acting like he was non-existent was just fine.}
Little by little, time passed by as the two people played their game of chess. A servant even came up to announce it was already time for dinner, yet Lao Yezi still wished to continue playing.

Calmly acting like he was non-existent was just fine.

_{Little by little, time passed by as the two people played their game of chess. A servant even came up to announce it was already time for dinner, yet Lao Yezi still wished to continue playing.}Han Yang: "..."

Little by little, time passed by as the two people played their game of chess. A servant even came up to announce it was already time for dinner, yet Lao Yezi still wished to continue playing.

_N/A "You should go get some rest." Helian Qing said apathetically.

N/A

_{"Han Yang." Han Yang replied.}"Just get over there first." Seeing him still staring off blankly, Helian Qing just pulled him towards Lao Yezi and sat him down directly across from the old man, then said indifferently, "Keep Grandad company in the next chess game."

"Han Yang." Han Yang replied.

_{Seeing the deeper meaning behind Helian Qing's stare made a chill run-down Han Yang's back. As expected, he couldn't flaunt his clever quips this time, since this Princess Qing appears to be more like HuanzhuT/n: Princess Huanzhu is also a character from and star of, My Fair Princess. (She's feisty) on the inside, so good at dismissing.}
How did it go by so quickly? Han Yang was surprised as he never played chess for such a long time, and never did he think that today he would be playing with Helian Qing's grandfather from since earlier in that afternoon. Pretty soon the time was already six-thirty in the evening.

Seeing the deeper meaning behind Helian Qing's stare made a chill run-down Han Yang's back. As expected, he couldn't flaunt his clever quips this time, since this Princess Qing appears to be more like HuanzhuT/n: Princess Huanzhu is also a character from and star of, My Fair Princess. (She's feisty) on the inside, so good at dismissing.

_{"That's very nice to hear. In my hometown they also have the custom of giving childhood names to kids as well." Han Yang smiled, ignoring the frosty air emanating from the one beside him. It was a rare chance to make Helian Qing suffer a defeat, how could he let such a moment slip by in vain.} "Lao Yezi, doesn't mind being called Lao Yezi by you but it does sound kind of awkward." Lao Yezi took the cup of tea handed to him by Helian Qing, drinking a sip, then to Han Yang said, "So since you and Qing'er are to be wed, you might as well start calling me grandad too."

"That's very nice to hear. In my hometown they also have the custom of giving childhood names to kids as well." Han Yang smiled, ignoring the frosty air emanating from the one beside him. It was a rare chance to make Helian Qing suffer a defeat, how could he let such a moment slip by in vain.

_{In his childhood years, he would often accompany his grandfather who played chess with the old men of their village. Seeing that for so long, he naturally developed an interest in the game, so his grandpa personally taught him for many years.}
"Lao TouziT/n: Lao Touzi is more casual, personal form of address here. Han Yang's speech became friendlier., I haven't enjoyed myself so much in such a long time. You really should go, get downstairs for dinner." Lao Yezi stood up and left the room.

In his childhood years, he would often accompany his grandfather who played chess with the old men of their village. Seeing that for so long, he naturally developed an interest in the game, so his grandpa personally taught him for many years.

_{In his childhood years, he would often accompany his grandfather who played chess with the old men of their village. Seeing that for so long, he naturally developed an interest in the game, so his grandpa personally taught him for many years.}Han Yang: "..."

In his childhood years, he would often accompany his grandfather who played chess with the old men of their village. Seeing that for so long, he naturally developed an interest in the game, so his grandpa personally taught him for many years.

_{"Relax a bit, I won't eat you. Just play a round with me." Lao Yezi said.}
"Han Yang and Helian Qing left right after, with the latter mentioning, "Your chess skills aren't that bad, huh."

"Relax a bit, I won't eat you. Just play a round with me." Lao Yezi said.

_{In the final inning, Han Yang still lost though. Saying in a hushed tone, "Lao Yezi, you were difficult to deal withT/n: the word translated as "difficult to deal with" also means "ferocious" and "awesome"."}"What are you thinking about?" Helian Qing asked.

In the final inning, Han Yang still lost though. Saying in a hushed tone, "Lao Yezi, you were difficult to deal withT/n: the word translated as "difficult to deal with" also means "ferocious" and "awesome"."

_{Han Yang was seriously unable to bear his ridicule.}"Why are you just standing there?" Helian Qing asked when he noticed Han Yang just stood there, dumbfounded.

Han Yang was seriously unable to bear his ridicule.

_{In the final inning, Han Yang still lost though. Saying in a hushed tone, "Lao Yezi, you were difficult to deal withT/n: the word translated as "difficult to deal with" also means "ferocious" and "awesome"."}"Han Yang." Han Yang replied.

In the final inning, Han Yang still lost though. Saying in a hushed tone, "Lao Yezi, you were difficult to deal withT/n: the word translated as "difficult to deal with" also means "ferocious" and "awesome"."

_{"Really?" Helian Qing shot Han Yang a glance, neither cold nor warmly said, "So why don't you tell us your childhood name, was it Guo DanT/n: dog eggs perhaps?"}
His tone made it unclear whether his statement was one of praise, Han Yang simply stared at him, just as he continued speaking, "Dropping by for a chess game, and your husband's presence slips your mind too. I'm trying to decide whether I should give you a chess set, do you want to go set up a stall on the street?"

"Really?" Helian Qing shot Han Yang a glance, neither cold nor warmly said, "So why don't you tell us your childhood name, was it Guo DanT/n: dog eggs perhaps?"

_{"What are you thinking about?" Helian Qing asked.}
Han Yang: "..." he really had forgotten all about Helian Qing while visiting for a chess game.

"What are you thinking about?" Helian Qing asked.

_{Han Yang: "I also just gave an inch to lose a mile."}
Helian Qing saw by his expression, he was trying to figure out the right response. His face face gradually darkened, and with a scoff, he strode off ahead of him.

Han Yang: "I also just gave an inch to lose a mile."

_{"Don't take a mile when you're only given an inch." Helian Qing said.}To the "are you stupid or something" expression on his face, Han Yang turned a blind eye, then whispered, "He's your grandfather, why wouldn't he be calling for you?"

"Don't take a mile when you're only given an inch." Helian Qing said.

_{In the final inning, Han Yang still lost though. Saying in a hushed tone, "Lao Yezi, you were difficult to deal withT/n: the word translated as "difficult to deal with" also means "ferocious" and "awesome"."}With this new way of thinking, he nodded, "Okay."

In the final inning, Han Yang still lost though. Saying in a hushed tone, "Lao Yezi, you were difficult to deal withT/n: the word translated as "difficult to deal with" also means "ferocious" and "awesome"."

_{"Han Yang." Han Yang replied.}
Calmly acting like he was non-existent was just fine.

"Han Yang." Han Yang replied.

_{{Acting thoughtless always leads to pay back.} He thought, unable to prevent himself from nodded a bit.}"Don't take a mile when you're only given an inch." Helian Qing said.

Acting thoughtless always leads to pay back. He thought, unable to prevent himself from nodded a bit.

_{Little by little, time passed by as the two people played their game of chess. A servant even came up to announce it was already time for dinner, yet Lao Yezi still wished to continue playing.}Upon hearing his request, Han Yang unconsciously stood up, but he did not go over just yet.

Little by little, time passed by as the two people played their game of chess. A servant even came up to announce it was already time for dinner, yet Lao Yezi still wished to continue playing.

_{Helian Qing didn't believe him, so much so, he was about to speak but Lao Yezi suddenly interjected, "Come on, stop flirting in public."}Helian Qing: "..."

Helian Qing didn't believe him, so much so, he was about to speak but Lao Yezi suddenly interjected, "Come on, stop flirting in public."

_{Being well accustomed to Helian Qing's taunts, this look of resentment from that man made him feel somewhat shocked. It was evident that this "Princess Qing" had put him in a bad mood.}
Han Yang said in his heart.

Being well accustomed to Helian Qing's taunts, this look of resentment from that man made him feel somewhat shocked. It was evident that this "Princess Qing" had put him in a bad mood.

_{With this new way of thinking, he nodded, "Okay."}
...just why is this guy's mouth so mean!

With this new way of thinking, he nodded, "Okay."

_{Lao Yezi lowered his head, paying no attention to the peculiar actions of the two, arranging the chess board as he spoke, "Qing'er is a nickname. Originally, we thought he'd be born a girl, so we chose the name Helian Qing'er. Who knew he would turn out to be a boy? We changed his name to Helian Qing later and calling him Qing'er just became his childhood name."}"Just get over there first." Seeing him still staring off blankly, Helian Qing just pulled him towards Lao Yezi and sat him down directly across from the old man, then said indifferently, "Keep Grandad company in the next chess game."

Lao Yezi lowered his head, paying no attention to the peculiar actions of the two, arranging the chess board as he spoke, "Qing'er is a nickname. Originally, we thought he'd be born a girl, so we chose the name Helian Qing'er. Who knew he would turn out to be a boy? We changed his name to Helian Qing later and calling him Qing'er just became his childhood name."

_{Han Yang: "I also just gave an inch to lose a mile."}Han Yang: "..."

Han Yang: "I also just gave an inch to lose a mile."

_{"Alright." Han Yang nodded.}"Come on then, play another round of chess with me." Lao Yezi said.

"Alright." Han Yang nodded.

_{Compared to the one he wore just a moment ago, Lao Yezi's expression transformed into an even more friendly one. In looking at Han Yang, he could also see the surge of fondness and admiration that lay in the youth's eyes.}
Han Yang was seriously unable to bear his ridicule.

Compared to the one he wore just a moment ago, Lao Yezi's expression transformed into an even more friendly one. In looking at Han Yang, he could also see the surge of fondness and admiration that lay in the youth's eyes. This change was, after all, because of this youngster's ability to keep up with him for so long during a match, when only a handful of others had managed to do so. Han Yang's technique was seasoned, his reasoning—meticulous, skills that can only appear after a lot of training. Not to mention Han Yang's calm, without a trace of impatience, temperament was also very much to his liking.

_{Seeing the deeper meaning behind Helian Qing's stare made a chill run-down Han Yang's back. As expected, he couldn't flaunt his clever quips this time, since this Princess Qing appears to be more like HuanzhuT/n: Princess Huanzhu is also a character from and star of, My Fair Princess. (She's feisty) on the inside, so good at dismissing.}One move after the other, the two players carried on with their match as Helian Qing sat beside them looking on, not uttering a peep.

Seeing the deeper meaning behind Helian Qing's stare made a chill run-down Han Yang's back. As expected, he couldn't flaunt his clever quips this time, since this Princess Qing appears to be more like HuanzhuT/n: Princess Huanzhu is also a character from and star of, My Fair Princess. (She's feisty) on the inside, so good at dismissing.

_{"That's very nice to hear. In my hometown they also have the custom of giving childhood names to kids as well." Han Yang smiled, ignoring the frosty air emanating from the one beside him. It was a rare chance to make Helian Qing suffer a defeat, how could he let such a moment slip by in vain.} Compared to the one he wore just a moment ago, Lao Yezi's expression transformed into an even more friendly one. In looking at Han Yang, he could also see the surge of fondness and admiration that lay in the youth's eyes. This change was, after all, because of this youngster's ability to keep up with him for so long during a match, when only a handful of others had managed to do so. Han Yang's technique was seasoned, his reasoning—meticulous, skills that can only appear after a lot of training. Not to mention Han Yang's calm, without a trace of impatience, temperament was also very much to his liking.

"That's very nice to hear. In my hometown they also have the custom of giving childhood names to kids as well." Han Yang smiled, ignoring the frosty air emanating from the one beside him. It was a rare chance to make Helian Qing suffer a defeat, how could he let such a moment slip by in vain.

---

Author's Note:

N/A

Notes:

^1.Guo Dan is used as a nickname under the belief that if jealous spirits search for you to snatch away your life, having such a ridiculous name will make it look like you're not a person. Guo Dan also lit. means Dog Eggs. Dog is used as an insult sometimes and Egg is prominent in a lot of curses, e.g., 王八蛋: Wang Ba Dan: son of a tortoise, aka, Son of a b*tch. So, another way to interpret, Guo Dan (son of a dog) is sonovabiіtch.

Princess Huanzhu is in the gif above. As you can see, she's looks like a spitfire.

A pic of Princess Qing'er below.

💖✴Princess Qing'er✴💖

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