Brother-in-law: C04-2

04.2: Envy

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

_{The Imperial Sword was an honorary award gifted to the winning sect of the competition between the five great houses. It represented supreme authority and honour, as it was bestowed by the emperor of Shengyang himself.}
In this world, many things are of a mystifying nature, and one such thing is the relationships between people.

The Imperial Sword was an honorary award gifted to the winning sect of the competition between the five great houses. It represented supreme authority and honour, as it was bestowed by the emperor of Shengyang himself.

_{The interaction between them was done with such little restraint that the smiling expression worn by Fang Shixiu during their interaction was incredibly relaxed. There was not a single trace of the patience and tolerant visage he usually wore when dealing with them both.}After six years of struggle, the Ximen Sect was finally able to recapture the highest honour and bring the Imperial Sword bestowed on the winner of the Sword that Moves the World, back into their grasp.

The interaction between them was done with such little restraint that the smiling expression worn by Fang Shixiu during their interaction was incredibly relaxed. There was not a single trace of the patience and tolerant visage he usually wore when dealing with them both.

That same evening, a grand banquet was held by the Xuanyuan Sect for their large group of guests. Although the final honour still belonged to the participants of House Ximen, Xuanyuan Wuji was still in high spirits.

_{House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.}Contrary to the others, Yan Ran and Ximen Rongruo sat together and drank in silence that night, both feeling that Fang Shixiu and the others existed in a realm beyond their own.

House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.

Fang Shixiu served as his best man, and it was the first time that man wasn’t dressed in all white. But even while dressed in a pale pink robe, the youthfulness it made him encompaѕs, along with his natural grace, caused him to still steal all of the budding groom’s glory.

_{Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”}
Yan Ran did not like Ximen Rongruo. This was true without the slightest shred of doubt.

Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”

_{Yan Ran looked on at that scene as though all of his breath was stolen because, in this brief moment, Fang Shixiu was as perfect as a god in his eyes.}“About my loss during this competition, do you want to know why I was so distraught?”

Yan Ran looked on at that scene as though all of his breath was stolen because, in this brief moment, Fang Shixiu was as perfect as a god in his eyes.

_{Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.}After many cruel rounds of elimination, five of the most skilled competitors were chosen to represent the Ximen Sect. Fang Shixiu and Ximen Rongruo were of course included in this selection, but so was Yan Ran, who was lucky to defeat his opponents and claim the last available place.

Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.

_{He was the sole heir of House Ximen, with one of the highest positions there could be. Yet he rarely acted with the air of superiority that was common in young masters. In fact, most of the time, he treated everyone around him politely—with kindness—and was simply a child that everyone could not help but love.}“Don’t thank me. It was Rongruo who took care of you all night. I was rather intoxicated last night, and after I got back here, I saw you clutching his hand tightly while you slept like a baby.”

He was the sole heir of House Ximen, with one of the highest positions there could be. Yet he rarely acted with the air of superiority that was common in young masters. In fact, most of the time, he treated everyone around him politely—with kindness—and was simply a child that everyone could not help but love.

_{“Huh?” Yan Ran was so shocked that he shot upward. But Fang Shixiu made him lie back down just as quickly.}
But on account of his jealousy, at the same time he poured his attention on Fang Shixiu, he also unwittingly placed his focus on Ximen Rongruo. Then, as time paѕsed, he gradually realised that there were indeed many likeable aspects to his supposed foe.

“Huh?” Yan Ran was so shocked that he shot upward. But Fang Shixiu made him lie back down just as quickly.

_{Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”}The Biennial Swordsmanship Competition was quickly approaching, and the host for the current year’s activities was House Xuanyuan of the capital city of Tianshu.

Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”

But these were not the only reasons he stood out from everyone else because, in conjunction with his natural talents, the effort he had put into honing his skills was grand. He was the type to stay at the training ground to train on his own after everyone else had left. There were naturally some instances where Fang Shixiu would accompany him, but when trained, he was completely devoted to that act.

_{Their match had gone on for two hours. Yet there was still no champion to declare.}Unlike him, Ximen Rongruo made it to the second round of the competition. His swordplay was graceful but not glitzy, delicate but not gaudy. He was like a brilliant pearl in the moonlight. Even in the sunlight, his slender and flexible blade glistened. And when caressed by his fingers, it released an enchanting hum. But even a comparative novice like Yan Ran could tell what he lacked despite his radiance. It was a murderous aura, a deterrent that all top-level sword masters must invariably possess.

Their match had gone on for two hours. Yet there was still no champion to declare.

_{Witnessing the sight, Yan Ran felt conflicted. He couldn't, for the life of him, figure out Fang Shixiu’s heart. {What exactly does Rongruo mean to him?}}He was intoxicated by Fang Shixiu’s charm. He longed for him—he adored him. More than anything, he yearned for that man’s love. More than anything, he wished for that man’s soothing embrace.

Witnessing the sight, Yan Ran felt conflicted. He couldn't, for the life of him, figure out Fang Shixiu’s heart. What exactly does Rongruo mean to him?

_{Rongruo sighed in response, hiding his face in his palms before working up the nerve to answer, “I know how he sees me. In his eyes, I am just a kid—he even said he considers me his fourth child.”}
He was handsome and had looks that were as brilliant as the moon on high, and that went without saying. Then there was that ever-peaceful temperаment of his, his ever-gentle smile, and that serene gaze, which was enough to entice the hearts of others, leaving them with a feeling of comfort once in his presence.

Rongruo sighed in response, hiding his face in his palms before working up the nerve to answer, “I know how he sees me. In his eyes, I am just a kid—he even said he considers me his fourth child.”

_{The more Yan Ran saw this unrelenting determination of his, in fact, the more he seemingly understood.}In fact, a few years following this period, in this very arena of the Xuanyuan Sect, another young swordsman would enact this very technique. Han Xiling will be his name, and within just one move, he, too, will win.

The more Yan Ran saw this unrelenting determination of his, in fact, the more he seemingly understood.

_{Whether it was attacking or defending, both were impressively skilled. Even the elegance of their movements and the beauty of their swordplay were a match on every scale. And despite there being no discernible movements within their expressions, that silence nonetheless roared with the thundering of hearts.}“I have some business to take care of, so I’m going to visit Xuanyuan Wuji. As for you, don’t move; you need to rest for a while longer. I already told the cook to make you something, and after you’re done eating, you need to rest yourself well.”

Whether it was attacking or defending, both were impressively skilled. Even the elegance of their movements and the beauty of their swordplay were a match on every scale. And despite there being no discernible movements within their expressions, that silence nonetheless roared with the thundering of hearts.

_{“Before, I treated you pretty badly. So I’m really sorry for that, and I hope you aren’t holding any grudges.”}It all happened in a breath. From charging towards a dark path where only death seemed to await him—to emerging from the depths into a brilliant light—had taken Fang Shixiu no more than a quick breath to accomplish. But despite its brevity, it was nonetheless a show of pure mastery itself. Something that would soon be regarded as a piece of history itself.

“Before, I treated you pretty badly. So I’m really sorry for that, and I hope you aren’t holding any grudges.”

_{Witnessing the sight, Yan Ran felt conflicted. He couldn't, for the life of him, figure out Fang Shixiu’s heart. What exactly does Rongruo mean to him?}
He was the sole heir of House Ximen, with one of the highest positions there could be. Yet he rarely acted with the air of superiority that was common in young masters. In fact, most of the time, he treated everyone around him politely—with kindness—and was simply a child that everyone could not help but love.

Witnessing the sight, Yan Ran felt conflicted. He couldn't, for the life of him, figure out Fang Shixiu’s heart. What exactly does Rongruo mean to him?

_{“Thank you for taking care of me.” He said, upon realising the situation.}In preparation for this event, House Ximen trained their swordsmen rigorously for those two years, unabated.

“Thank you for taking care of me.” He said, upon realising the situation.

_{So, as a result, in this second round, Ximen Rongruo lost.}
With regard to his swordsmanship skills, his talents were also without question. A flexible and agile body, quick reflexes, swift swordplay, and lithe movements made him able to win a match in one move when his opponent never expected it.

So, as a result, in this second round, Ximen Rongruo lost.

_{Yan Ran nodded in lieu of speaking an answer, and Rongruo continued in return.}After all the preparations were made, the five all made their way to the city of Tianshu in haste.

Yan Ran nodded in lieu of speaking an answer, and Rongruo continued in return.

_{Fang Shixiu chuckled as he gave the other man his thanks, but he was still quite satisfied with his current life and had no plans on leaving Xiji at the moment.}Since Yan Ran had entered the Ximen Sect, this was the first time that man had ever taken it upon himself to invite him back to the house together.

Fang Shixiu chuckled as he gave the other man his thanks, but he was still quite satisfied with his current life and had no plans on leaving Xiji at the moment.

_{Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”}Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”

Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”

_{Yan Ran’s jaw dropped.}
But these were not the only reasons he stood out from everyone else because, in conjunction with his natural talents, the effort he had put into honing his skills was grand. He was the type to stay at the training ground to train on his own after everyone else had left. There were naturally some instances where Fang Shixiu would accompany him, but when trained, he was completely devoted to that act.

Yan Ran’s jaw dropped.

_{While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.}While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.

While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.

_{He was handsome and had looks that were as brilliant as the moon on high, and that went without saying. Then there was that ever-peaceful temperаment of his, his ever-gentle smile, and that serene gaze, which was enough to entice the hearts of others, leaving them with a feeling of comfort once in his presence.}
With a solemn face that seemed to exude frost, all traces of the delicate young master he was were gone. It was at such a moment when all of Ximen Rongruo was dedicated to his resolve that he gained Yan Ran’s favour.

He was handsome and had looks that were as brilliant as the moon on high, and that went without saying. Then there was that ever-peaceful temperаment of his, his ever-gentle smile, and that serene gaze, which was enough to entice the hearts of others, leaving them with a feeling of comfort once in his presence.

_{House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.}Fang Shixiu… Oh, Fang Shixiu! How can there be someone like you in this world?

House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.

_{When their match began, it was an absolute delight to witness. All was a feast for eyes, be it their unparalleled beauty and manner or the terrifying splendour of their swordsmanship.}Slowly, Xuanyuan Wuji lowered his sword, a smile tugging at his lips as he uttered, “You win. Congrats.”

When their match began, it was an absolute delight to witness. All was a feast for eyes, be it their unparalleled beauty and manner or the terrifying splendour of their swordsmanship.

_{“My family has long been in great debt due to mismanagement, and the Ye family, the ones who proposed the marriage to my father, are quite wealthy. What’s more… I’m already seventeen years of age, and my parents also want grandchildren…”}With a solemn face that seemed to exude frost, all traces of the delicate young master he was were gone. It was at such a moment when all of Ximen Rongruo was dedicated to his resolve that he gained Yan Ran’s favour.

“My family has long been in great debt due to mismanagement, and the Ye family, the ones who proposed the marriage to my father, are quite wealthy. What’s more… I’m already seventeen years of age, and my parents also want grandchildren…”

_{After the wedding ceremony, Yan Ran was planning to find the right moment to leave. But when he found it, Fang Shixiu walked over and grabbed him by the arm, leaning close to his ear before he whispered, “Stay, we’ll go back home together later tonight.”}
The more Yan Ran saw this unrelenting determination of his, in fact, the more he seemingly understood.

After the wedding ceremony, Yan Ran was planning to find the right moment to leave. But when he found it, Fang Shixiu walked over and grabbed him by the arm, leaning close to his ear before he whispered, “Stay, we’ll go back home together later tonight.”

_{“Well… I know now that you’re a really sweet person—a really great one, in fact! The kind of nice person who would even take care of his enemy.” Yan Ran said all this without hesitation, speaking as frankly as he always had before.}Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”

“Well… I know now that you’re a really sweet person—a really great one, in fact! The kind of nice person who would even take care of his enemy.” Yan Ran said all this without hesitation, speaking as frankly as he always had before.

_{In fact, a few years following this period, in this very arena of the Xuanyuan Sect, another young swordsman would enact this very technique. Han Xiling will be his name, and within just one move, he, too, will win.}Right then, his singular gaze was met by Xuanyuan Wuji’s figure rushing towards Fang Shixiu from behind in a move so shocking that he almost let out a scream.

In fact, a few years following this period, in this very arena of the Xuanyuan Sect, another young swordsman would enact this very technique. Han Xiling will be his name, and within just one move, he, too, will win.

_{“Are you getting married, then? How come I don't know about any of this?”}When Xuanyuan Wuji heard that newfound pal had to roam all the way to the distant lands of Xiji to earn a living, he couldn’t help but feel sorry for the man—even insisted he join their sect. “I am serious. Come join us here. I give you my word; we'll treat you with the highest possible respect.”

“Are you getting married, then? How come I don't know about any of this?”

_{Using the excuse that he was feeling a bit unwell, Ximen Rongruo pardoned himself to head back to his room. But when Fang Shixiu only told him to rest well and did nothing else in response when he bade him farewell, disappointment etched itself into the younger man’s heart, and he made his exit with unhappiness.}After all the preparations were made, the five all made their way to the city of Tianshu in haste.

Using the excuse that he was feeling a bit unwell, Ximen Rongruo pardoned himself to head back to his room. But when Fang Shixiu only told him to rest well and did nothing else in response when he bade him farewell, disappointment etched itself into the younger man’s heart, and he made his exit with unhappiness.

☆☆☆

_{“Don’t thank me. It was Rongruo who took care of you all night. I was rather intoxicated last night, and after I got back here, I saw you clutching his hand tightly while you slept like a baby.”}
The Biennial Swordsmanship Competition was quickly approaching, and the host for the current year’s activities was House Xuanyuan of the capital city of Tianshu.

“Don’t thank me. It was Rongruo who took care of you all night. I was rather intoxicated last night, and after I got back here, I saw you clutching his hand tightly while you slept like a baby.”

_{Rongruo sputtered out a laugh upon hearing those words. “Do you take me as some sort of villain?”}Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”

Rongruo sputtered out a laugh upon hearing those words. “Do you take me as some sort of villain?”

_{Yan Ran’s jaw dropped.}To which Fang Shixiu returned in kind as he replied, “Thank you.”

Yan Ran’s jaw dropped.

“I have some business to take care of, so I’m going to visit Xuanyuan Wuji. As for you, don’t move; you need to rest for a while longer. I already told the cook to make you something, and after you’re done eating, you need to rest yourself well.”

_{Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.}He was an outstanding man, one who took great care of his appearance. Yet oftentimes, he would do amazing things that would leave others in a daze of fascination.

Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.

_N/A☆☆☆

N/A

_{Fang Shixiu, in response, nimbly twisted his body to avoid the sword attacking him. Then, stiffening his right wrist and flipping it upwards, the double-edged sword in his hand accurately darted threw the gap between his opponent’s legs before, with a flіcker, his body phased to now reside at that man’s back, where that thrown sword was captured.}
After many cruel rounds of elimination, five of the most skilled competitors were chosen to represent the Ximen Sect. Fang Shixiu and Ximen Rongruo were of course included in this selection, but so was Yan Ran, who was lucky to defeat his opponents and claim the last available place.

Fang Shixiu, in response, nimbly twisted his body to avoid the sword attacking him. Then, stiffening his right wrist and flipping it upwards, the double-edged sword in his hand accurately darted threw the gap between his opponent’s legs before, with a flіcker, his body phased to now reside at that man’s back, where that thrown sword was captured. Finally, with a back-handed grip, he lifted his sword, pressing its tip flush against Xuanyuan Wuji’s chеst, which had belatedly turned to meet him.

_{After many cruel rounds of elimination, five of the most skilled competitors were chosen to represent the Ximen Sect. Fang Shixiu and Ximen Rongruo were of course included in this selection, but so was Yan Ran, who was lucky to defeat his opponents and claim the last available place.}He was handsome and had looks that were as brilliant as the moon on high, and that went without saying. Then there was that ever-peaceful temperаment of his, his ever-gentle smile, and that serene gaze, which was enough to entice the hearts of others, leaving them with a feeling of comfort once in his presence.

After many cruel rounds of elimination, five of the most skilled competitors were chosen to represent the Ximen Sect. Fang Shixiu and Ximen Rongruo were of course included in this selection, but so was Yan Ran, who was lucky to defeat his opponents and claim the last available place.

Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”

_{He was handsome and had looks that were as brilliant as the moon on high, and that went without saying. Then there was that ever-peaceful temperаment of his, his ever-gentle smile, and that serene gaze, which was enough to entice the hearts of others, leaving them with a feeling of comfort once in his presence.}The interaction between them was done with such little restraint that the smiling expression worn by Fang Shixiu during their interaction was incredibly relaxed. There was not a single trace of the patience and tolerant visage he usually wore when dealing with them both.

_{Since Yan Ran had entered the Ximen Sect, this was the first time that man had ever taken it upon himself to invite him back to the house together.}
It was Yan Ran’s first time entering the capital, so amongst everyone there, he was especially excited.

Since Yan Ran had entered the Ximen Sect, this was the first time that man had ever taken it upon himself to invite him back to the house together.

_{“Well… I know now that you’re a really sweet person—a really great one, in fact! The kind of nice person who would even take care of his enemy.” Yan Ran said all this without hesitation, speaking as frankly as he always had before.}The two left alone in the room now stared at the other for a while, neither saying a word.

_{Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.}“About my loss during this competition, do you want to know why I was so distraught?”

Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.

_{Yan Ran’s jaw dropped.}He seemed quite energetic, as one might expect on the outside, yet those eyes of his kept darkening with a melancholic haze. But none of this was noticed if you gave him a paѕsing glance. So as long as someone did not look carefully, his gratefulness and serene smiling expression would make one think he was over the moon at being able to wed such a beautiful bride.

Yan Ran’s jaw dropped.

_{iana: Han Xiling is a character in book 2 of this series.}
With a white ribbon binding his now longer hair loosely—hair that was now the same lеngth as Fan Shixiu's—he was also dressed in similar clothes to the man he admired. So, in the eyes of those around them, on account of this, they looked no different than a pair of brothers.

iana: Han Xiling is a character in book 2 of this series.

_“What?”Contrary to the others, Yan Ran and Ximen Rongruo sat together and drank in silence that night, both feeling that Fang Shixiu and the others existed in a realm beyond their own.

“What?”

_{That man was combing his hair, neatly urging his jet-black strands towards his back, where they hung. As Yan Ran watched those smooth and primly snipped ends sway with each of that man’s movements, that heart of his was also made to flutter in turn.}
Yan Ran was brimming with enthusiasm at the thought of showing off his skills and gaining Fang Shixiu’s attention. But the heavens were not on his side during his match, and he was eliminated during the preliminary round—when the competition had just begun.

That man was combing his hair, neatly urging his jet-black strands towards his back, where they hung. As Yan Ran watched those smooth and primly snipped ends sway with each of that man’s movements, that heart of his was also made to flutter in turn.

_{“Don’t thank me. It was Rongruo who took care of you all night. I was rather intoxicated last night, and after I got back here, I saw you clutching his hand tightly while you slept like a baby.”}From Ximen Danque to the servant busy with one odd job or another, everyone at the Ximen residence had an indescribable amount of joy etched on their faces. But on the day of Ximen Rongruo’s wedding, Yan Ran kept his concerned gaze focused on the young master, unable to shake the feeling of unease.

_{“Are you getting married, then? How come I don't know about any of this?”}It was even more pronounced when his obsidian-like eyes ensnared a person in their gaze. Whether it be a man or woman, all were helplessly captured the same.

“Are you getting married, then? How come I don't know about any of this?”

_{Rongruo sighed in response, hiding his face in his palms before working up the nerve to answer, “I know how he sees me. In his eyes, I am just a kid—he even said he considers me his fourth child.”}Xuanyuan Wuji was a sturdy fellow with handsome features—features so wonderfully sculpted and proportioned that one would think he was a carving from a master sculptor made flesh.

_{From Ximen Danque to the servant busy with one odd job or another, everyone at the Ximen residence had an indescribable amount of joy etched on their faces. But on the day of Ximen Rongruo’s wedding, Yan Ran kept his concerned gaze focused on the young master, unable to shake the feeling of unease.}
Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.

From Ximen Danque to the servant busy with one odd job or another, everyone at the Ximen residence had an indescribable amount of joy etched on their faces. But on the day of Ximen Rongruo’s wedding, Yan Ran kept his concerned gaze focused on the young master, unable to shake the feeling of unease.

_☆☆☆
Unlike him, Ximen Rongruo made it to the second round of the competition. His swordplay was graceful but not glitzy, delicate but not gaudy. He was like a brilliant pearl in the moonlight. Even in the sunlight, his slender and flexible blade glistened. And when caressed by his fingers, it released an enchanting hum. But even a comparative novice like Yan Ran could tell what he lacked despite his radiance. It was a murderous aura, a deterrent that all top-level sword masters must invariably possess.

☆☆☆

_{Fang Shixiu turned back after a moment, looking at the entranced youth as he asked, “You’re up now. Are you feeling better?”}Unlike him, Ximen Rongruo made it to the second round of the competition. His swordplay was graceful but not glitzy, delicate but not gaudy. He was like a brilliant pearl in the moonlight. Even in the sunlight, his slender and flexible blade glistened. And when caressed by his fingers, it released an enchanting hum. But even a comparative novice like Yan Ran could tell what he lacked despite his radiance. It was a murderous aura, a deterrent that all top-level sword masters must invariably possess.

Fang Shixiu turned back after a moment, looking at the entranced youth as he asked, “You’re up now. Are you feeling better?”

That man seemed so carefree at that wedding, as if there was nothing that could disturb his mood. Regardless of whether it was Ximen Rongruo’s sadness or Yan Ran’s confounded distress.

_{Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”}But even though Yan Ran was hoping to steal a few more glances at Fang Shixiu, he too had to call it in for the night due to that same man’s order for him to head to his room and get some rest.

Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”

_{This was also in part due to the upcoming nuptials of House Ximen’s sole young master, giving truth to the saying that good things come in pairs.}Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.

This was also in part due to the upcoming nuptials of House Ximen’s sole young master, giving truth to the saying that good things come in pairs.

_{“About my loss during this competition, do you want to know why I was so distraught?”}
Thus, the last hope of the Ximen Sect rested on Fang Shixiu.

“About my loss during this competition, do you want to know why I was so distraught?”

_{iana: Han Xiling is a character in book 2 of this series.}House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.

iana: Han Xiling is a character in book 2 of this series.

_{Thus, the last hope of the Ximen Sect rested on Fang Shixiu.}
In the final match, he would face off against Xuanyuan Wuji, the eldest son of House Xuanyuan itself.

Thus, the last hope of the Ximen Sect rested on Fang Shixiu.

_{Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”}It all happened in a breath. From charging towards a dark path where only death seemed to await him—to emerging from the depths into a brilliant light—had taken Fang Shixiu no more than a quick breath to accomplish. But despite its brevity, it was nonetheless a show of pure mastery itself. Something that would soon be regarded as a piece of history itself.

Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”

_{Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.}
Xuanyuan Wuji was a sturdy fellow with handsome features—features so wonderfully sculpted and proportioned that one would think he was a carving from a master sculptor made flesh.

Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.

_{“Huh?” Yan Ran was so shocked that he shot upward. But Fang Shixiu made him lie back down just as quickly.}Yan Ran opened his mouth, wanting to ask more, but Fang Shixiu had already swiftly walked away.

“Huh?” Yan Ran was so shocked that he shot upward. But Fang Shixiu made him lie back down just as quickly.

_{It was Yan Ran’s first time entering the capital, so amongst everyone there, he was especially excited.}
But it was the majestic grandeur of his nobility that did more to captivate the hearts of others than his beauty, unlike the delicacy that was Ximen Ronruo’s. A natural, royal kind of charm exuded from every inch of him. Every move he made was done with dignity, elegance, and ease, to the point where it kept onlookers enraptured by this charm of his from the very beginning to the end.

It was Yan Ran’s first time entering the capital, so amongst everyone there, he was especially excited.

_{The two left alone in the room now stared at the other for a while, neither saying a word.}From Ximen Danque to the servant busy with one odd job or another, everyone at the Ximen residence had an indescribable amount of joy etched on their faces. But on the day of Ximen Rongruo’s wedding, Yan Ran kept his concerned gaze focused on the young master, unable to shake the feeling of unease.

The two left alone in the room now stared at the other for a while, neither saying a word.

_{It was Yan Ran’s first time entering the capital, so amongst everyone there, he was especially excited.}Ximen Rongruo’s face stiffened when he heard those words, however, followed by a bitter smile as he spoke. “Yan Ran, you have no idea, do you? You have no idea how much I envy you. How you can do whatever you want—can say whatever you please—but I..."

It was Yan Ran’s first time entering the capital, so amongst everyone there, he was especially excited.

_{To which Fang Shixiu returned in kind as he replied, “Thank you.”}
It was even more pronounced when his obsidian-like eyes ensnared a person in their gaze. Whether it be a man or woman, all were helplessly captured the same.

To which Fang Shixiu returned in kind as he replied, “Thank you.”

_{He was an outstanding man, one who took great care of his appearance. Yet oftentimes, he would do amazing things that would leave others in a daze of fascination.}Rongruo sighed in response, hiding his face in his palms before working up the nerve to answer, “I know how he sees me. In his eyes, I am just a kid—he even said he considers me his fourth child.”

He was an outstanding man, one who took great care of his appearance. Yet oftentimes, he would do amazing things that would leave others in a daze of fascination.

_{Thus, the last hope of the Ximen Sect rested on Fang Shixiu.}“About my loss during this competition, do you want to know why I was so distraught?”

Thus, the last hope of the Ximen Sect rested on Fang Shixiu.

_{“Well… I know now that you’re a really sweet person—a really great one, in fact! The kind of nice person who would even take care of his enemy.” Yan Ran said all this without hesitation, speaking as frankly as he always had before.}It was Yan Ran’s first time entering the capital, so amongst everyone there, he was especially excited.

_{He was the sole heir of House Ximen, with one of the highest positions there could be. Yet he rarely acted with the air of superiority that was common in young masters. In fact, most of the time, he treated everyone around him politely—with kindness—and was simply a child that everyone could not help but love.}
But in this world, nothing is absolute. There did exist a special few who did not fall prey to such allure, and such a person was drаped in all white. His grace and bearing were just as prominent as Xuanyuan Wuji's, and none could tell which of their majesties could be described as greater.

_{In fact, a few years following this period, in this very arena of the Xuanyuan Sect, another young swordsman would enact this very technique. Han Xiling will be his name, and within just one move, he, too, will win.}He was handsome and had looks that were as brilliant as the moon on high, and that went without saying. Then there was that ever-peaceful temperаment of his, his ever-gentle smile, and that serene gaze, which was enough to entice the hearts of others, leaving them with a feeling of comfort once in his presence.

_{He was an outstanding man, one who took great care of his appearance. Yet oftentimes, he would do amazing things that would leave others in a daze of fascination.}
When their match began, it was an absolute delight to witness. All was a feast for eyes, be it their unparalleled beauty and manner or the terrifying splendour of their swordsmanship.

He was an outstanding man, one who took great care of his appearance. Yet oftentimes, he would do amazing things that would leave others in a daze of fascination.

_{Fang Shixiu served as his best man, and it was the first time that man wasn’t dressed in all white. But even while dressed in a pale pink robe, the youthfulness it made him encompaѕs, along with his natural grace, caused him to still steal all of the budding groom’s glory.}It all happened in a breath. From charging towards a dark path where only death seemed to await him—to emerging from the depths into a brilliant light—had taken Fang Shixiu no more than a quick breath to accomplish. But despite its brevity, it was nonetheless a show of pure mastery itself. Something that would soon be regarded as a piece of history itself.

_{Their match had gone on for two hours. Yet there was still no champion to declare.}Their match had gone on for two hours. Yet there was still no champion to declare.

Their match had gone on for two hours. Yet there was still no champion to declare.

_{So, too, was our Yan Ran, whose heart pounded so fiercely that he feared it might stop. He wished to the heavens that he had possessed eight pairs of eyes, just so he could watch that exquisitely complex match from every conceivable angle.}
Whether it was attacking or defending, both were impressively skilled. Even the elegance of their movements and the beauty of their swordplay were a match on every scale. And despite there being no discernible movements within their expressions, that silence nonetheless roared with the thundering of hearts.

So, too, was our Yan Ran, whose heart pounded so fiercely that he feared it might stop. He wished to the heavens that he had possessed eight pairs of eyes, just so he could watch that exquisitely complex match from every conceivable angle.

_{Ximen Rongruo’s face was devoid of colour as he spoke, his eyes flіckering as he stared at Yan Ran. “You will never know just how much I envy you. You have no idea at all.”}It all happened in a breath. From charging towards a dark path where only death seemed to await him—to emerging from the depths into a brilliant light—had taken Fang Shixiu no more than a quick breath to accomplish. But despite its brevity, it was nonetheless a show of pure mastery itself. Something that would soon be regarded as a piece of history itself.

Ximen Rongruo’s face was devoid of colour as he spoke, his eyes flіckering as he stared at Yan Ran. “You will never know just how much I envy you. You have no idea at all.”

_{Rongruo sighed in response, hiding his face in his palms before working up the nerve to answer, “I know how he sees me. In his eyes, I am just a kid—he even said he considers me his fourth child.”}With a white ribbon binding his now longer hair loosely—hair that was now the same lеngth as Fan Shixiu's—he was also dressed in similar clothes to the man he admired. So, in the eyes of those around them, on account of this, they looked no different than a pair of brothers.

_{When Yan Ran again opened his eyes, the sky was already bright. And within his waking vision was Fang Shixiu’s glorious sight.}
Their match had gone on for two hours. Yet there was still no champion to declare.

When Yan Ran again opened his eyes, the sky was already bright. And within his waking vision was Fang Shixiu’s glorious sight.

_{Contrary to the others, Yan Ran and Ximen Rongruo sat together and drank in silence that night, both feeling that Fang Shixiu and the others existed in a realm beyond their own.}☆☆☆

Contrary to the others, Yan Ran and Ximen Rongruo sat together and drank in silence that night, both feeling that Fang Shixiu and the others existed in a realm beyond their own.

_{With that, Fang Shixiu tousled Rongruo’s hair, then made his way out.}04.2: Envy

With that, Fang Shixiu tousled Rongruo’s hair, then made his way out.

_{But on account of his jealousy, at the same time he poured his attention on Fang Shixiu, he also unwittingly placed his focus on Ximen Rongruo. Then, as time paѕsed, he gradually realised that there were indeed many likeable aspects to his supposed foe.}
The crowd had long abandoned themselves in the thrilling sight—every muscle tensed, every gaze firmly locked as they poured their all into witnessing that fight.

But on account of his jealousy, at the same time he poured his attention on Fang Shixiu, he also unwittingly placed his focus on Ximen Rongruo. Then, as time paѕsed, he gradually realised that there were indeed many likeable aspects to his supposed foe.

_{So, too, was our Yan Ran, whose heart pounded so fiercely that he feared it might stop. He wished to the heavens that he had possessed eight pairs of eyes, just so he could watch that exquisitely complex match from every conceivable angle.}Witnessing the sight, Yan Ran felt conflicted. He couldn't, for the life of him, figure out Fang Shixiu’s heart. What exactly does Rongruo mean to him?

_☆☆☆
So, too, was our Yan Ran, whose heart pounded so fiercely that he feared it might stop. He wished to the heavens that he had possessed eight pairs of eyes, just so he could watch that exquisitely complex match from every conceivable angle.

☆☆☆

_{In preparation for this event, House Ximen trained their swordsmen rigorously for those two years, unabated.}In preparation for this event, House Ximen trained their swordsmen rigorously for those two years, unabated.

In preparation for this event, House Ximen trained their swordsmen rigorously for those two years, unabated.

_“What?”Yan Ran was brimming with enthusiasm at the thought of showing off his skills and gaining Fang Shixiu’s attention. But the heavens were not on his side during his match, and he was eliminated during the preliminary round—when the competition had just begun.

“What?”

_{That man seemed so carefree at that wedding, as if there was nothing that could disturb his mood. Regardless of whether it was Ximen Rongruo’s sadness or Yan Ran’s confounded distress.}Xuanyuan Wuji was a sturdy fellow with handsome features—features so wonderfully sculpted and proportioned that one would think he was a carving from a master sculptor made flesh.

That man seemed so carefree at that wedding, as if there was nothing that could disturb his mood. Regardless of whether it was Ximen Rongruo’s sadness or Yan Ran’s confounded distress.

_☆☆☆He was intoxicated by Fang Shixiu’s charm. He longed for him—he adored him. More than anything, he yearned for that man’s love. More than anything, he wished for that man’s soothing embrace.

☆☆☆

_{In preparation for this event, House Ximen trained their swordsmen rigorously for those two years, unabated.}
Right then, his singular gaze was met by Xuanyuan Wuji’s figure rushing towards Fang Shixiu from behind in a move so shocking that he almost let out a scream.

In preparation for this event, House Ximen trained their swordsmen rigorously for those two years, unabated.

_{Rongruo sighed in response, hiding his face in his palms before working up the nerve to answer, “I know how he sees me. In his eyes, I am just a kid—he even said he considers me his fourth child.”}Right then, his singular gaze was met by Xuanyuan Wuji’s figure rushing towards Fang Shixiu from behind in a move so shocking that he almost let out a scream.

_{But it was the majestic grandeur of his nobility that did more to captivate the hearts of others than his beauty, unlike the delicacy that was Ximen Ronruo’s. A natural, royal kind of charm exuded from every inch of him. Every move he made was done with dignity, elegance, and ease, to the point where it kept onlookers enraptured by this charm of his from the very beginning to the end.}Fang Shixiu chuckled as he gave the other man his thanks, but he was still quite satisfied with his current life and had no plans on leaving Xiji at the moment.

But it was the majestic grandeur of his nobility that did more to captivate the hearts of others than his beauty, unlike the delicacy that was Ximen Ronruo’s. A natural, royal kind of charm exuded from every inch of him. Every move he made was done with dignity, elegance, and ease, to the point where it kept onlookers enraptured by this charm of his from the very beginning to the end.

_{But these were not the only reasons he stood out from everyone else because, in conjunction with his natural talents, the effort he had put into honing his skills was grand. He was the type to stay at the training ground to train on his own after everyone else had left.}
Fang Shixiu, in response, nimbly twisted his body to avoid the sword attacking him. Then, stiffening his right wrist and flipping it upwards, the double-edged sword in his hand accurately darted threw the gap between his opponent’s legs before, with a flіcker, his body phased to now reside at that man’s back, where that thrown sword was captured. Finally, with a back-handed grip, he lifted his sword, pressing its tip flush against Xuanyuan Wuji’s chеst, which had belatedly turned to meet him.

_{“What?” Yan Ran blinked in confusion.}When Yan Ran made it outside, it was raining, and despite the heavy showers, he made his way back to his lodging in a daze. That final scene of the competition, the one that seared itself in his mind, not only kept him enthralled, it also caused his entire body to grow heated.

“What?” Yan Ran blinked in confusion.

_{Their match had gone on for two hours. Yet there was still no champion to declare.}That same evening, a grand banquet was held by the Xuanyuan Sect for their large group of guests. Although the final honour still belonged to the participants of House Ximen, Xuanyuan Wuji was still in high spirits.

Their match had gone on for two hours. Yet there was still no champion to declare.

_{The Biennial Swordsmanship Competition was quickly approaching, and the host for the current year’s activities was House Xuanyuan of the capital city of Tianshu.}“Thank you for taking care of me.” He said, upon realising the situation.

The Biennial Swordsmanship Competition was quickly approaching, and the host for the current year’s activities was House Xuanyuan of the capital city of Tianshu.

_{That same evening, a grand banquet was held by the Xuanyuan Sect for their large group of guests. Although the final honour still belonged to the participants of House Ximen, Xuanyuan Wuji was still in high spirits.}
It all happened in a breath. From charging towards a dark path where only death seemed to await him—to emerging from the depths into a brilliant light—had taken Fang Shixiu no more than a quick breath to accomplish. But despite its brevity, it was nonetheless a show of pure mastery itself. Something that would soon be regarded as a piece of history itself.

_{When Yan Ran made it outside, it was raining, and despite the heavy showers, he made his way back to his lodging in a daze. That final scene of the competition, the one that seared itself in his mind, not only kept him enthralled, it also caused his entire body to grow heated.}The Imperial Sword was an honorary award gifted to the winning sect of the competition between the five great houses. It represented supreme authority and honour, as it was bestowed by the emperor of Shengyang himself.

When Yan Ran made it outside, it was raining, and despite the heavy showers, he made his way back to his lodging in a daze. That final scene of the competition, the one that seared itself in his mind, not only kept him enthralled, it also caused his entire body to grow heated.

_{The Biennial Swordsmanship Competition was quickly approaching, and the host for the current year’s activities was House Xuanyuan of the capital city of Tianshu.}
In fact, a few years following this period, in this very arena of the Xuanyuan Sect, another young swordsman would enact this very technique. Han Xiling will be his name, and within just one move, he, too, will win.

The Biennial Swordsmanship Competition was quickly approaching, and the host for the current year’s activities was House Xuanyuan of the capital city of Tianshu.

_{Yan Ran stared in shock as Rongruo made this confession. It turned out, contrary to his expectations, that this was the way Fang Shixiu had regarded Rongruo.}In this world, many things are of a mystifying nature, and one such thing is the relationships between people.

Yan Ran stared in shock as Rongruo made this confession. It turned out, contrary to his expectations, that this was the way Fang Shixiu had regarded Rongruo.

_{Such was Yan Ran, who now stared at that man in a stupor. Whatever words he had to say were long forgotten in his daze.}
Slowly, Xuanyuan Wuji lowered his sword, a smile tugging at his lips as he uttered, “You win. Congrats.”

Such was Yan Ran, who now stared at that man in a stupor. Whatever words he had to say were long forgotten in his daze.

_{04.2: Envy}Rongruo sighed in response, hiding his face in his palms before working up the nerve to answer, “I know how he sees me. In his eyes, I am just a kid—he even said he considers me his fourth child.”

04.2: Envy

_{With that, Fang Shixiu tousled Rongruo’s hair, then made his way out.}With that, Fang Shixiu tousled Rongruo’s hair, then made his way out.

With that, Fang Shixiu tousled Rongruo’s hair, then made his way out.

_{Yan Ran was brimming with enthusiasm at the thought of showing off his skills and gaining Fang Shixiu’s attention. But the heavens were not on his side during his match, and he was eliminated during the preliminary round—when the competition had just begun.}Yan Ran did his best to remеmber, at his questioning, until he finally recalled himself getting caught in the rain.

Yan Ran was brimming with enthusiasm at the thought of showing off his skills and gaining Fang Shixiu’s attention. But the heavens were not on his side during his match, and he was eliminated during the preliminary round—when the competition had just begun.

_{But right then, Ximen Rongruo walked in after knocking on the door. He seemed to be in good spirits considering their last meeting, and he had even changed into a new set of clothes.}N/A

But right then, Ximen Rongruo walked in after knocking on the door. He seemed to be in good spirits considering their last meeting, and he had even changed into a new set of clothes.

_{With regard to his swordsmanship skills, his talents were also without question. A flexible and agile body, quick reflexes, swift swordplay, and lithe movements made him able to win a match in one move when his opponent never expected it.}
To which Fang Shixiu returned in kind as he replied, “Thank you.”

With regard to his swordsmanship skills, his talents were also without question. A flexible and agile body, quick reflexes, swift swordplay, and lithe movements made him able to win a match in one move when his opponent never expected it.

_{With a solemn face that seemed to exude frost, all traces of the delicate young master he was were gone. It was at such a moment when all of Ximen Rongruo was dedicated to his resolve that he gained Yan Ran’s favour.}The Biennial Swordsmanship Competition was quickly approaching, and the host for the current year’s activities was House Xuanyuan of the capital city of Tianshu.

With a solemn face that seemed to exude frost, all traces of the delicate young master he was were gone. It was at such a moment when all of Ximen Rongruo was dedicated to his resolve that he gained Yan Ran’s favour.

_☆☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆

_{Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.}Using the excuse that he was feeling a bit unwell, Ximen Rongruo pardoned himself to head back to his room. But when Fang Shixiu only told him to rest well and did nothing else in response when he bade him farewell, disappointment etched itself into the younger man’s heart, and he made his exit with unhappiness.

Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.

_{“Are you feeling better?”}After the wedding ceremony, Yan Ran was planning to find the right moment to leave. But when he found it, Fang Shixiu walked over and grabbed him by the arm, leaning close to his ear before he whispered, “Stay, we’ll go back home together later tonight.”

“Are you feeling better?”

_{The crowd had long abandoned themselves in the thrilling sight—every muscle tensed, every gaze firmly locked as they poured their all into witnessing that fight.}
Yan Ran looked on at that scene as though all of his breath was stolen because, in this brief moment, Fang Shixiu was as perfect as a god in his eyes.

The crowd had long abandoned themselves in the thrilling sight—every muscle tensed, every gaze firmly locked as they poured their all into witnessing that fight.

_{When Xuanyuan Wuji heard that newfound pal had to roam all the way to the distant lands of Xiji to earn a living, he couldn’t help but feel sorry for the man—even insisted he join their sect. “I am serious. Come join us here. I give you my word; we'll treat you with the highest possible respect.”}He was an outstanding man, one who took great care of his appearance. Yet oftentimes, he would do amazing things that would leave others in a daze of fascination.

When Xuanyuan Wuji heard that newfound pal had to roam all the way to the distant lands of Xiji to earn a living, he couldn’t help but feel sorry for the man—even insisted he join their sect. “I am serious. Come join us here. I give you my word; we'll treat you with the highest possible respect.”

☆☆☆

_{Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”}
That same evening, a grand banquet was held by the Xuanyuan Sect for their large group of guests. Although the final honour still belonged to the participants of House Ximen, Xuanyuan Wuji was still in high spirits.

Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”

_{{Fang Shixiu… Oh, Fang Shixiu! How can there be someone like you in this world?}}Yan Ran stared in shock as Rongruo made this confession. It turned out, contrary to his expectations, that this was the way Fang Shixiu had regarded Rongruo.

Fang Shixiu… Oh, Fang Shixiu! How can there be someone like you in this world?

_{With that, Fang Shixiu tousled Rongruo’s hair, then made his way out.}
He and Fang Shixiu had now become friends in what seemed to be an instant, and so, for the rest of the evening, the two spent all night talking and laughing with each other non-stop.

With that, Fang Shixiu tousled Rongruo’s hair, then made his way out.

_{He was handsome and had looks that were as brilliant as the moon on high, and that went without saying. Then there was that ever-peaceful temperаment of his, his ever-gentle smile, and that serene gaze, which was enough to entice the hearts of others, leaving them with a feeling of comfort once in his presence.}He was intoxicated by Fang Shixiu’s charm. He longed for him—he adored him. More than anything, he yearned for that man’s love. More than anything, he wished for that man’s soothing embrace.

_{As he thought, he felt his mind dizzy. As he mused, he noticed his gaze grow dark. But that heart of his, that pure unsullied heart, still burned with a righteous fury. Then, for the first time, he realised as he descended that his feelings towards Fang Shixiu were not solely because he was his sister’s husband—at least now, after she had paѕsed.}The two left alone in the room now stared at the other for a while, neither saying a word.

As he thought, he felt his mind dizzy. As he mused, he noticed his gaze grow dark. But that heart of his, that pure unsullied heart, still burned with a righteous fury. Then, for the first time, he realised as he descended that his feelings towards Fang Shixiu were not solely because he was his sister’s husband—at least now, after she had paѕsed.

_{Slowly, Xuanyuan Wuji lowered his sword, a smile tugging at his lips as he uttered, “You win. Congrats.”}
When Xuanyuan Wuji heard that newfound pal had to roam all the way to the distant lands of Xiji to earn a living, he couldn’t help but feel sorry for the man—even insisted he join their sect. “I am serious. Come join us here. I give you my word; we'll treat you with the highest possible respect.”

Slowly, Xuanyuan Wuji lowered his sword, a smile tugging at his lips as he uttered, “You win. Congrats.”

_{Yan Ran’s jaw dropped.}“You are welcome. When I saw you lying unconscious in the rain from my window, it gave me quite a fright. But thankfully, you seem to be alright now. Xiu, are you going out? If so, I will take care of Yan Ran in the meantime.”

Yan Ran’s jaw dropped.

_{He and Fang Shixiu had now become friends in what seemed to be an instant, and so, for the rest of the evening, the two spent all night talking and laughing with each other non-stop.}Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.

He and Fang Shixiu had now become friends in what seemed to be an instant, and so, for the rest of the evening, the two spent all night talking and laughing with each other non-stop.

_{When their match began, it was an absolute delight to witness. All was a feast for eyes, be it their unparalleled beauty and manner or the terrifying splendour of their swordsmanship.}
Fang Shixiu chuckled as he gave the other man his thanks, but he was still quite satisfied with his current life and had no plans on leaving Xiji at the moment.

When their match began, it was an absolute delight to witness. All was a feast for eyes, be it their unparalleled beauty and manner or the terrifying splendour of their swordsmanship.

_{Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”}☆☆☆

Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”

_{Slowly, Xuanyuan Wuji lowered his sword, a smile tugging at his lips as he uttered, “You win. Congrats.”}After the wedding ceremony, Yan Ran was planning to find the right moment to leave. But when he found it, Fang Shixiu walked over and grabbed him by the arm, leaning close to his ear before he whispered, “Stay, we’ll go back home together later tonight.”

Slowly, Xuanyuan Wuji lowered his sword, a smile tugging at his lips as he uttered, “You win. Congrats.”

_{When Xuanyuan Wuji heard that newfound pal had to roam all the way to the distant lands of Xiji to earn a living, he couldn’t help but feel sorry for the man—even insisted he join their sect. “I am serious. Come join us here. I give you my word; we'll treat you with the highest possible respect.”}
Contrary to the others, Yan Ran and Ximen Rongruo sat together and drank in silence that night, both feeling that Fang Shixiu and the others existed in a realm beyond their own.

_{Yan Ran was the first to break the silence, unable to stand it any longer. “Rongruo. I’m sorry.”}The Imperial Sword was an honorary award gifted to the winning sect of the competition between the five great houses. It represented supreme authority and honour, as it was bestowed by the emperor of Shengyang himself.

Yan Ran was the first to break the silence, unable to stand it any longer. “Rongruo. I’m sorry.”

He seemed quite energetic, as one might expect on the outside, yet those eyes of his kept darkening with a melancholic haze. But none of this was noticed if you gave him a paѕsing glance. So as long as someone did not look carefully, his gratefulness and serene smiling expression would make one think he was over the moon at being able to wed such a beautiful bride.

_{He was an outstanding man, one who took great care of his appearance. Yet oftentimes, he would do amazing things that would leave others in a daze of fascination.}That same evening, a grand banquet was held by the Xuanyuan Sect for their large group of guests. Although the final honour still belonged to the participants of House Ximen, Xuanyuan Wuji was still in high spirits.

He was an outstanding man, one who took great care of his appearance. Yet oftentimes, he would do amazing things that would leave others in a daze of fascination.

_{“My family has long been in great debt due to mismanagement, and the Ye family, the ones who proposed the marriage to my father, are quite wealthy. What’s more… I’m already seventeen years of age, and my parents also want grandchildren…”}
While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.

_{“Before, I treated you pretty badly. So I’m really sorry for that, and I hope you aren’t holding any grudges.”}Unlike him, Ximen Rongruo made it to the second round of the competition. His swordplay was graceful but not glitzy, delicate but not gaudy. He was like a brilliant pearl in the moonlight. Even in the sunlight, his slender and flexible blade glistened. And when caressed by his fingers, it released an enchanting hum. But even a comparative novice like Yan Ran could tell what he lacked despite his radiance. It was a murderous aura, a deterrent that all top-level sword masters must invariably possess.

“Before, I treated you pretty badly. So I’m really sorry for that, and I hope you aren’t holding any grudges.”

_{Yan Ran was the first to break the silence, unable to stand it any longer. “Rongruo. I’m sorry.”}
The interaction between them was done with such little restraint that the smiling expression worn by Fang Shixiu during their interaction was incredibly relaxed. There was not a single trace of the patience and tolerant visage he usually wore when dealing with them both.

Yan Ran was the first to break the silence, unable to stand it any longer. “Rongruo. I’m sorry.”

_{Unlike him, Ximen Rongruo made it to the second round of the competition. His swordplay was graceful but not glitzy, delicate but not gaudy.}Thus, the last hope of the Ximen Sect rested on Fang Shixiu.

Unlike him, Ximen Rongruo made it to the second round of the competition. His swordplay was graceful but not glitzy, delicate but not gaudy. He was like a brilliant pearl in the moonlight. Even in the sunlight, his slender and flexible blade glistened. And when caressed by his fingers, it released an enchanting hum. But even a comparative novice like Yan Ran could tell what he lacked despite his radiance. It was a murderous aura, a deterrent that all top-level sword masters must invariably possess.

_{Yan Ran was a bit reluctant at their parting; after all, what he wanted most at that moment was family to stay by his side.}
Using the excuse that he was feeling a bit unwell, Ximen Rongruo pardoned himself to head back to his room. But when Fang Shixiu only told him to rest well and did nothing else in response when he bade him farewell, disappointment etched itself into the younger man’s heart, and he made his exit with unhappiness.

Yan Ran was a bit reluctant at their parting; after all, what he wanted most at that moment was family to stay by his side.

_{With regard to his swordsmanship skills, his talents were also without question. A flexible and agile body, quick reflexes, swift swordplay, and lithe movements made him able to win a match in one move when his opponent never expected it.}Ximen Rongruo’s face was devoid of colour as he spoke, his eyes flіckering as he stared at Yan Ran. “You will never know just how much I envy you. You have no idea at all.”

_{Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.}“What?”

Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.

_{“I made a bet with my father and Fang Shixiu. I bet that if I became the number one swordsman in the world, I would be allowed to not marry and that I would be allowed to freely choose my own future path. But…”}
Yan Ran looked on as the departing figure disappeared into the distance, unable to stop the sliver of pity he felt for the guy who had left. That young master, raised in the lap of luxury provided by the noble House Ximen’s well-endowed coffers, turned out to be a helplessly pitiful child when thrυst into the outside world.

“I made a bet with my father and Fang Shixiu. I bet that if I became the number one swordsman in the world, I would be allowed to not marry and that I would be allowed to freely choose my own future path. But…”

_☆☆☆Yan Ran looked on as the departing figure disappeared into the distance, unable to stop the sliver of pity he felt for the guy who had left. That young master, raised in the lap of luxury provided by the noble House Ximen’s well-endowed coffers, turned out to be a helplessly pitiful child when thrυst into the outside world.

☆☆☆

Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”

_{He was handsome and had looks that were as brilliant as the moon on high, and that went without saying. Then there was that ever-peaceful temperаment of his, his ever-gentle smile, and that serene gaze, which was enough to entice the hearts of others, leaving them with a feeling of comfort once in his presence.}He and Fang Shixiu had now become friends in what seemed to be an instant, and so, for the rest of the evening, the two spent all night talking and laughing with each other non-stop.

_{“Before, I treated you pretty badly. So I’m really sorry for that, and I hope you aren’t holding any grudges.”}
But even though Yan Ran was hoping to steal a few more glances at Fang Shixiu, he too had to call it in for the night due to that same man’s order for him to head to his room and get some rest.

“Before, I treated you pretty badly. So I’m really sorry for that, and I hope you aren’t holding any grudges.”

_{From Ximen Danque to the servant busy with one odd job or another, everyone at the Ximen residence had an indescribable amount of joy etched on their faces. But on the day of Ximen Rongruo’s wedding, Yan Ran kept his concerned gaze focused on the young master, unable to shake the feeling of unease.}When Yan Ran again opened his eyes, the sky was already bright. And within his waking vision was Fang Shixiu’s glorious sight.

_☆☆☆Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”

☆☆☆

_{He seemed quite energetic, as one might expect on the outside, yet those eyes of his kept darkening with a melancholic haze. But none of this was noticed if you gave him a paѕsing glance. So as long as someone did not look carefully, his gratefulness and serene smiling expression would make one think he was over the moon at being able to wed such a beautiful bride.}
When Yan Ran made it outside, it was raining, and despite the heavy showers, he made his way back to his lodging in a daze. That final scene of the competition, the one that seared itself in his mind, not only kept him enthralled, it also caused his entire body to grow heated.

_{Fang Shixiu, in response, nimbly twisted his body to avoid the sword attacking him. Then, stiffening his right wrist and flipping it upwards, the double-edged sword in his hand accurately darted threw the gap between his opponent’s legs before, with a flіcker, his body phased to now reside at that man’s back, where that thrown sword was captured.}Contrary to the others, Yan Ran and Ximen Rongruo sat together and drank in silence that night, both feeling that Fang Shixiu and the others existed in a realm beyond their own.

_☆☆☆He seemed quite energetic, as one might expect on the outside, yet those eyes of his kept darkening with a melancholic haze. But none of this was noticed if you gave him a paѕsing glance. So as long as someone did not look carefully, his gratefulness and serene smiling expression would make one think he was over the moon at being able to wed such a beautiful bride.

☆☆☆

_{“Huh?” Yan Ran was so shocked that he shot upward. But Fang Shixiu made him lie back down just as quickly.}The crowd had long abandoned themselves in the thrilling sight—every muscle tensed, every gaze firmly locked as they poured their all into witnessing that fight.

“Huh?” Yan Ran was so shocked that he shot upward. But Fang Shixiu made him lie back down just as quickly.

_{Yan Ran was the first to break the silence, unable to stand it any longer. “Rongruo. I’m sorry.”}After six years of struggle, the Ximen Sect was finally able to recapture the highest honour and bring the Imperial Sword bestowed on the winner of the Sword that Moves the World, back into their grasp.

Yan Ran was the first to break the silence, unable to stand it any longer. “Rongruo. I’m sorry.”

_{While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.}It was even more pronounced when his obsidian-like eyes ensnared a person in their gaze. Whether it be a man or woman, all were helplessly captured the same.

While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.

_{Fang Shixiu turned back after a moment, looking at the entranced youth as he asked, “You’re up now. Are you feeling better?”}
As he thought, he felt his mind dizzy. As he mused, he noticed his gaze grow dark. But that heart of his, that pure unsullied heart, still burned with a righteous fury. Then, for the first time, he realised as he descended that his feelings towards Fang Shixiu were not solely because he was his sister’s husband—at least now, after she had paѕsed.

Fang Shixiu turned back after a moment, looking at the entranced youth as he asked, “You’re up now. Are you feeling better?”

_{Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”}Ximen Rongruo’s face was devoid of colour as he spoke, his eyes flіckering as he stared at Yan Ran. “You will never know just how much I envy you. You have no idea at all.”

Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”

_{Right then, his singular gaze was met by Xuanyuan Wuji’s figure rushing towards Fang Shixiu from behind in a move so shocking that he almost let out a scream.}Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”

Right then, his singular gaze was met by Xuanyuan Wuji’s figure rushing towards Fang Shixiu from behind in a move so shocking that he almost let out a scream.

_{After many cruel rounds of elimination, five of the most skilled competitors were chosen to represent the Ximen Sect. Fang Shixiu and Ximen Rongruo were of course included in this selection, but so was Yan Ran, who was lucky to defeat his opponents and claim the last available place.}
He was intoxicated by Fang Shixiu’s charm. He longed for him—he adored him. More than anything, he yearned for that man’s love. More than anything, he wished for that man’s soothing embrace.

_{As he thought, he felt his mind dizzy. As he mused, he noticed his gaze grow dark. But that heart of his, that pure unsullied heart, still burned with a righteous fury. Then, for the first time, he realised as he descended that his feelings towards Fang Shixiu were not solely because he was his sister’s husband—at least now, after she had paѕsed.}In this world, many things are of a mystifying nature, and one such thing is the relationships between people.

☆☆☆

_{Yan Ran did not like Ximen Rongruo. This was true without the slightest shred of doubt.}
When Yan Ran again opened his eyes, the sky was already bright. And within his waking vision was Fang Shixiu’s glorious sight.

Yan Ran did not like Ximen Rongruo. This was true without the slightest shred of doubt.

_{House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.}But these were not the only reasons he stood out from everyone else because, in conjunction with his natural talents, the effort he had put into honing his skills was grand. He was the type to stay at the training ground to train on his own after everyone else had left. There were naturally some instances where Fang Shixiu would accompany him, but when trained, he was completely devoted to that act.

House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.

_{Since Yan Ran had entered the Ximen Sect, this was the first time that man had ever taken it upon himself to invite him back to the house together.}But on account of his jealousy, at the same time he poured his attention on Fang Shixiu, he also unwittingly placed his focus on Ximen Rongruo. Then, as time paѕsed, he gradually realised that there were indeed many likeable aspects to his supposed foe.

Since Yan Ran had entered the Ximen Sect, this was the first time that man had ever taken it upon himself to invite him back to the house together.

_{Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.}Slowly, Xuanyuan Wuji lowered his sword, a smile tugging at his lips as he uttered, “You win. Congrats.”

Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.

_{Xuanyuan Wuji was a sturdy fellow with handsome features—features so wonderfully sculpted and proportioned that one would think he was a carving from a master sculptor made flesh.}
That man was combing his hair, neatly urging his jet-black strands towards his back, where they hung. As Yan Ran watched those smooth and primly snipped ends sway with each of that man’s movements, that heart of his was also made to flutter in turn.

Xuanyuan Wuji was a sturdy fellow with handsome features—features so wonderfully sculpted and proportioned that one would think he was a carving from a master sculptor made flesh.

_{“Are you getting married, then? How come I don't know about any of this?”}Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.

“Are you getting married, then? How come I don't know about any of this?”

_{It all happened in a breath. From charging towards a dark path where only death seemed to await him—to emerging from the depths into a brilliant light—had taken Fang Shixiu no more than a quick breath to accomplish. But despite its brevity, it was nonetheless a show of pure mastery itself. Something that would soon be regarded as a piece of history itself.}
He was an outstanding man, one who took great care of his appearance. Yet oftentimes, he would do amazing things that would leave others in a daze of fascination.

It all happened in a breath. From charging towards a dark path where only death seemed to await him—to emerging from the depths into a brilliant light—had taken Fang Shixiu no more than a quick breath to accomplish. But despite its brevity, it was nonetheless a show of pure mastery itself. Something that would soon be regarded as a piece of history itself.

_{But on account of his jealousy, at the same time he poured his attention on Fang Shixiu, he also unwittingly placed his focus on Ximen Rongruo. Then, as time paѕsed, he gradually realised that there were indeed many likeable aspects to his supposed foe.}That man was combing his hair, neatly urging his jet-black strands towards his back, where they hung. As Yan Ran watched those smooth and primly snipped ends sway with each of that man’s movements, that heart of his was also made to flutter in turn.

_{House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.}To which Fang Shixiu returned in kind as he replied, “Thank you.”

House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.

_{“Thank you for taking care of me.” He said, upon realising the situation.}
Such was Yan Ran, who now stared at that man in a stupor. Whatever words he had to say were long forgotten in his daze.

“Thank you for taking care of me.” He said, upon realising the situation.

_{It all happened in a breath. From charging towards a dark path where only death seemed to await him—to emerging from the depths into a brilliant light—had taken Fang Shixiu no more than a quick breath to accomplish. But despite its brevity, it was nonetheless a show of pure mastery itself. Something that would soon be regarded as a piece of history itself.}Yan Ran was a bit reluctant at their parting; after all, what he wanted most at that moment was family to stay by his side.

_{“Are you feeling better?”}
Fang Shixiu turned back after a moment, looking at the entranced youth as he asked, “You’re up now. Are you feeling better?”

“Are you feeling better?”

_{He and Fang Shixiu had now become friends in what seemed to be an instant, and so, for the rest of the evening, the two spent all night talking and laughing with each other non-stop.}Yan Ran was a bit reluctant at their parting; after all, what he wanted most at that moment was family to stay by his side.

He and Fang Shixiu had now become friends in what seemed to be an instant, and so, for the rest of the evening, the two spent all night talking and laughing with each other non-stop.

_{But on account of his jealousy, at the same time he poured his attention on Fang Shixiu, he also unwittingly placed his focus on Ximen Rongruo. Then, as time paѕsed, he gradually realised that there were indeed many likeable aspects to his supposed foe.}“Huh?” Yan Ran was so shocked that he shot upward. But Fang Shixiu made him lie back down just as quickly.

After six years of struggle, the Ximen Sect was finally able to recapture the highest honour and bring the Imperial Sword bestowed on the winner of the Sword that Moves the World, back into their grasp.

_{“About my loss during this competition, do you want to know why I was so distraught?”}That man was combing his hair, neatly urging his jet-black strands towards his back, where they hung. As Yan Ran watched those smooth and primly snipped ends sway with each of that man’s movements, that heart of his was also made to flutter in turn.

“About my loss during this competition, do you want to know why I was so distraught?”

_{Witnessing the sight, Yan Ran felt conflicted. He couldn't, for the life of him, figure out Fang Shixiu’s heart. {What exactly does Rongruo mean to him?}}When their match began, it was an absolute delight to witness. All was a feast for eyes, be it their unparalleled beauty and manner or the terrifying splendour of their swordsmanship.

Witnessing the sight, Yan Ran felt conflicted. He couldn't, for the life of him, figure out Fang Shixiu’s heart. What exactly does Rongruo mean to him?

_{Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.}With regard to his swordsmanship skills, his talents were also without question. A flexible and agile body, quick reflexes, swift swordplay, and lithe movements made him able to win a match in one move when his opponent never expected it.

Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.

_☆☆☆
Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”

☆☆☆

_{Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.}So, as a result, in this second round, Ximen Rongruo lost.

Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.

_{But in this world, nothing is absolute. There did exist a special few who did not fall prey to such allure, and such a person was drаped in all white. His grace and bearing were just as prominent as Xuanyuan Wuji's, and none could tell which of their majesties could be described as greater.}“You are welcome. When I saw you lying unconscious in the rain from my window, it gave me quite a fright. But thankfully, you seem to be alright now. Xiu, are you going out? If so, I will take care of Yan Ran in the meantime.”

But in this world, nothing is absolute. There did exist a special few who did not fall prey to such allure, and such a person was drаped in all white. His grace and bearing were just as prominent as Xuanyuan Wuji's, and none could tell which of their majesties could be described as greater.

_{“Well… I know now that you’re a really sweet person—a really great one, in fact! The kind of nice person who would even take care of his enemy.” Yan Ran said all this without hesitation, speaking as frankly as he always had before.}
Yan Ran did his best to remеmber, at his questioning, until he finally recalled himself getting caught in the rain.

_{But right then, Ximen Rongruo walked in after knocking on the door. He seemed to be in good spirits considering their last meeting, and he had even changed into a new set of clothes.}Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”

But right then, Ximen Rongruo walked in after knocking on the door. He seemed to be in good spirits considering their last meeting, and he had even changed into a new set of clothes.

_{Fang Shixiu… Oh, Fang Shixiu! How can there be someone like you in this world?}
“Thank you for taking care of me.” He said, upon realising the situation.

Fang Shixiu… Oh, Fang Shixiu! How can there be someone like you in this world?

☆☆☆

_{House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.}
“Don’t thank me. It was Rongruo who took care of you all night. I was rather intoxicated last night, and after I got back here, I saw you clutching his hand tightly while you slept like a baby.”

House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.

_{“Are you feeling better?”}He was the sole heir of House Ximen, with one of the highest positions there could be. Yet he rarely acted with the air of superiority that was common in young masters. In fact, most of the time, he treated everyone around him politely—with kindness—and was simply a child that everyone could not help but love.

“Are you feeling better?”

_{“Well… I know now that you’re a really sweet person—a really great one, in fact! The kind of nice person who would even take care of his enemy.” Yan Ran said all this without hesitation, speaking as frankly as he always had before.}Rongruo sputtered out a laugh upon hearing those words. “Do you take me as some sort of villain?”

_{Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”}To which Fang Shixiu returned in kind as he replied, “Thank you.”

Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”

_☆☆☆
“Huh?” Yan Ran was so shocked that he shot upward. But Fang Shixiu made him lie back down just as quickly.

☆☆☆

_{But even though Yan Ran was hoping to steal a few more glances at Fang Shixiu, he too had to call it in for the night due to that same man’s order for him to head to his room and get some rest.}Contrary to the others, Yan Ran and Ximen Rongruo sat together and drank in silence that night, both feeling that Fang Shixiu and the others existed in a realm beyond their own.

But even though Yan Ran was hoping to steal a few more glances at Fang Shixiu, he too had to call it in for the night due to that same man’s order for him to head to his room and get some rest.

_{Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”}But he lost.

Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”

_{It all happened in a breath. From charging towards a dark path where only death seemed to await him—to emerging from the depths into a brilliant light—had taken Fang Shixiu no more than a quick breath to accomplish. But despite its brevity, it was nonetheless a show of pure mastery itself. Something that would soon be regarded as a piece of history itself.}“Before, I treated you pretty badly. So I’m really sorry for that, and I hope you aren’t holding any grudges.”

_{“What?” Yan Ran blinked in confusion.}
“I have some business to take care of, so I’m going to visit Xuanyuan Wuji. As for you, don’t move; you need to rest for a while longer. I already told the cook to make you something, and after you’re done eating, you need to rest yourself well.”

“What?” Yan Ran blinked in confusion.

_{That man was combing his hair, neatly urging his jet-black strands towards his back, where they hung. As Yan Ran watched those smooth and primly snipped ends sway with each of that man’s movements, that heart of his was also made to flutter in turn.}When Xuanyuan Wuji heard that newfound pal had to roam all the way to the distant lands of Xiji to earn a living, he couldn’t help but feel sorry for the man—even insisted he join their sect. “I am serious. Come join us here. I give you my word; we'll treat you with the highest possible respect.”

_{He was intoxicated by Fang Shixiu’s charm. He longed for him—he adored him. More than anything, he yearned for that man’s love. More than anything, he wished for that man’s soothing embrace.}
Yan Ran was a bit reluctant at their parting; after all, what he wanted most at that moment was family to stay by his side.

He was intoxicated by Fang Shixiu’s charm. He longed for him—he adored him. More than anything, he yearned for that man’s love. More than anything, he wished for that man’s soothing embrace.

_{Ximen Rongruo’s face stiffened when he heard those words, however, followed by a bitter smile as he spoke. “Yan Ran, you have no idea, do you? You have no idea how much I envy you. How you can do whatever you want—can say whatever you please—but I..."}He was an outstanding man, one who took great care of his appearance. Yet oftentimes, he would do amazing things that would leave others in a daze of fascination.

Ximen Rongruo’s face stiffened when he heard those words, however, followed by a bitter smile as he spoke. “Yan Ran, you have no idea, do you? You have no idea how much I envy you. How you can do whatever you want—can say whatever you please—but I..."

_{Yan Ran nodded in lieu of speaking an answer, and Rongruo continued in return.}This was also in part due to the upcoming nuptials of House Ximen’s sole young master, giving truth to the saying that good things come in pairs.

Yan Ran nodded in lieu of speaking an answer, and Rongruo continued in return.

_{Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”}So, too, was our Yan Ran, whose heart pounded so fiercely that he feared it might stop. He wished to the heavens that he had possessed eight pairs of eyes, just so he could watch that exquisitely complex match from every conceivable angle.

Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”

_{In fact, a few years following this period, in this very arena of the Xuanyuan Sect, another young swordsman would enact this very technique. Han Xiling will be his name, and within just one move, he, too, will win.}Yan Ran did his best to remеmber, at his questioning, until he finally recalled himself getting caught in the rain.

_{Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.}
But right then, Ximen Rongruo walked in after knocking on the door. He seemed to be in good spirits considering their last meeting, and he had even changed into a new set of clothes.

Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.

_{Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.}He and Fang Shixiu had now become friends in what seemed to be an instant, and so, for the rest of the evening, the two spent all night talking and laughing with each other non-stop.

Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.

_{Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.}Unlike him, Ximen Rongruo made it to the second round of the competition. His swordplay was graceful but not glitzy, delicate but not gaudy. He was like a brilliant pearl in the moonlight. Even in the sunlight, his slender and flexible blade glistened. And when caressed by his fingers, it released an enchanting hum. But even a comparative novice like Yan Ran could tell what he lacked despite his radiance. It was a murderous aura, a deterrent that all top-level sword masters must invariably possess.

Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.

_{In preparation for this event, House Ximen trained their swordsmen rigorously for those two years, unabated.}“Well… I know now that you’re a really sweet person—a really great one, in fact! The kind of nice person who would even take care of his enemy.” Yan Ran said all this without hesitation, speaking as frankly as he always had before.

In preparation for this event, House Ximen trained their swordsmen rigorously for those two years, unabated.

_{Fang Shixiu chuckled as he gave the other man his thanks, but he was still quite satisfied with his current life and had no plans on leaving Xiji at the moment.}
“Are you feeling better?”

Fang Shixiu chuckled as he gave the other man his thanks, but he was still quite satisfied with his current life and had no plans on leaving Xiji at the moment.

_{“Are you getting married, then? How come I don't know about any of this?”}Yan Ran nodded in lieu of speaking an answer, and Rongruo continued in return.

“Are you getting married, then? How come I don't know about any of this?”

_{With a white ribbon binding his now longer hair loosely—hair that was now the same lеngth as Fan Shixiu's—he was also dressed in similar clothes to the man he admired. So, in the eyes of those around them, on account of this, they looked no different than a pair of brothers.}The interaction between them was done with such little restraint that the smiling expression worn by Fang Shixiu during their interaction was incredibly relaxed. There was not a single trace of the patience and tolerant visage he usually wore when dealing with them both.

With a white ribbon binding his now longer hair loosely—hair that was now the same lеngth as Fan Shixiu's—he was also dressed in similar clothes to the man he admired. So, in the eyes of those around them, on account of this, they looked no different than a pair of brothers.

_{So, as a result, in this second round, Ximen Rongruo lost.}Witnessing the sight, Yan Ran felt conflicted. He couldn't, for the life of him, figure out Fang Shixiu’s heart. What exactly does Rongruo mean to him?

So, as a result, in this second round, Ximen Rongruo lost.

_{This was also in part due to the upcoming nuptials of House Ximen’s sole young master, giving truth to the saying that good things come in pairs.}
Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”

This was also in part due to the upcoming nuptials of House Ximen’s sole young master, giving truth to the saying that good things come in pairs.

_{{Fang Shixiu… Oh, Fang Shixiu! How can there be someone like you in this world?}}Right then, his singular gaze was met by Xuanyuan Wuji’s figure rushing towards Fang Shixiu from behind in a move so shocking that he almost let out a scream.

Fang Shixiu… Oh, Fang Shixiu! How can there be someone like you in this world?

_{It was even more pronounced when his obsidian-like eyes ensnared a person in their gaze. Whether it be a man or woman, all were helplessly captured the same.}“You are welcome. When I saw you lying unconscious in the rain from my window, it gave me quite a fright. But thankfully, you seem to be alright now. Xiu, are you going out? If so, I will take care of Yan Ran in the meantime.”

It was even more pronounced when his obsidian-like eyes ensnared a person in their gaze. Whether it be a man or woman, all were helplessly captured the same.

_{Yan Ran did his best to remеmber, at his questioning, until he finally recalled himself getting caught in the rain.}Yan Ran opened his mouth, wanting to ask more, but Fang Shixiu had already swiftly walked away.

Yan Ran did his best to remеmber, at his questioning, until he finally recalled himself getting caught in the rain.

_{Right then, his singular gaze was met by Xuanyuan Wuji’s figure rushing towards Fang Shixiu from behind in a move so shocking that he almost let out a scream.}
“You are welcome. When I saw you lying unconscious in the rain from my window, it gave me quite a fright. But thankfully, you seem to be alright now. Xiu, are you going out? If so, I will take care of Yan Ran in the meantime.”

Right then, his singular gaze was met by Xuanyuan Wuji’s figure rushing towards Fang Shixiu from behind in a move so shocking that he almost let out a scream.

_☆☆☆He was an outstanding man, one who took great care of his appearance. Yet oftentimes, he would do amazing things that would leave others in a daze of fascination.

☆☆☆

_“What?”
With that, Fang Shixiu tousled Rongruo’s hair, then made his way out.

“What?”

_{After six years of struggle, the Ximen Sect was finally able to recapture the highest honour and bring the Imperial Sword bestowed on the winner of the Sword that Moves the World, back into their grasp.}The Imperial Sword was an honorary award gifted to the winning sect of the competition between the five great houses. It represented supreme authority and honour, as it was bestowed by the emperor of Shengyang himself.

_{Contrary to the others, Yan Ran and Ximen Rongruo sat together and drank in silence that night, both feeling that Fang Shixiu and the others existed in a realm beyond their own.}Slowly, Xuanyuan Wuji lowered his sword, a smile tugging at his lips as he uttered, “You win. Congrats.”

Contrary to the others, Yan Ran and Ximen Rongruo sat together and drank in silence that night, both feeling that Fang Shixiu and the others existed in a realm beyond their own.

_{Rongruo sputtered out a laugh upon hearing those words. “Do you take me as some sort of villain?”}
Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.

Rongruo sputtered out a laugh upon hearing those words. “Do you take me as some sort of villain?”

_N/ABut even though Yan Ran was hoping to steal a few more glances at Fang Shixiu, he too had to call it in for the night due to that same man’s order for him to head to his room and get some rest.

N/A

_{Yan Ran stared in shock as Rongruo made this confession. It turned out, contrary to his expectations, that this was the way Fang Shixiu had regarded Rongruo.}
The two left alone in the room now stared at the other for a while, neither saying a word.

Yan Ran stared in shock as Rongruo made this confession. It turned out, contrary to his expectations, that this was the way Fang Shixiu had regarded Rongruo.

_{The two left alone in the room now stared at the other for a while, neither saying a word.}House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.

The two left alone in the room now stared at the other for a while, neither saying a word.

_{Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.}“What?” Yan Ran blinked in confusion.

Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.

_{Right then, his singular gaze was met by Xuanyuan Wuji’s figure rushing towards Fang Shixiu from behind in a move so shocking that he almost let out a scream.}Ximen Rongruo’s face stiffened when he heard those words, however, followed by a bitter smile as he spoke. “Yan Ran, you have no idea, do you? You have no idea how much I envy you. How you can do whatever you want—can say whatever you please—but I..."

Right then, his singular gaze was met by Xuanyuan Wuji’s figure rushing towards Fang Shixiu from behind in a move so shocking that he almost let out a scream.

_{With regard to his swordsmanship skills, his talents were also without question. A flexible and agile body, quick reflexes, swift swordplay, and lithe movements made him able to win a match in one move when his opponent never expected it.}Such was Yan Ran, who now stared at that man in a stupor. Whatever words he had to say were long forgotten in his daze.

_{In the final match, he would face off against Xuanyuan Wuji, the eldest son of House Xuanyuan itself.}
Yan Ran was the first to break the silence, unable to stand it any longer. “Rongruo. I’m sorry.”

In the final match, he would face off against Xuanyuan Wuji, the eldest son of House Xuanyuan itself.

_{Fang Shixiu, in response, nimbly twisted his body to avoid the sword attacking him. Then, stiffening his right wrist and flipping it upwards, the double-edged sword in his hand accurately darted threw the gap between his opponent’s legs before, with a flіcker, his body phased to now reside at that man’s back, where that thrown sword was captured.}Fang Shixiu served as his best man, and it was the first time that man wasn’t dressed in all white. But even while dressed in a pale pink robe, the youthfulness it made him encompaѕs, along with his natural grace, caused him to still steal all of the budding groom’s glory.

_{Yan Ran was the first to break the silence, unable to stand it any longer. “Rongruo. I’m sorry.”}Unlike him, Ximen Rongruo made it to the second round of the competition. His swordplay was graceful but not glitzy, delicate but not gaudy. He was like a brilliant pearl in the moonlight. Even in the sunlight, his slender and flexible blade glistened. And when caressed by his fingers, it released an enchanting hum. But even a comparative novice like Yan Ran could tell what he lacked despite his radiance. It was a murderous aura, a deterrent that all top-level sword masters must invariably possess.

Yan Ran was the first to break the silence, unable to stand it any longer. “Rongruo. I’m sorry.”

_{Unlike him, Ximen Rongruo made it to the second round of the competition. His swordplay was graceful but not glitzy, delicate but not gaudy.}
“Before, I treated you pretty badly. So I’m really sorry for that, and I hope you aren’t holding any grudges.”

_{Yan Ran did not like Ximen Rongruo. This was true without the slightest shred of doubt.}Yan Ran looked on as the departing figure disappeared into the distance, unable to stop the sliver of pity he felt for the guy who had left. That young master, raised in the lap of luxury provided by the noble House Ximen’s well-endowed coffers, turned out to be a helplessly pitiful child when thrυst into the outside world.

Yan Ran did not like Ximen Rongruo. This was true without the slightest shred of doubt.

_{But it was the majestic grandeur of his nobility that did more to captivate the hearts of others than his beauty, unlike the delicacy that was Ximen Ronruo’s. A natural, royal kind of charm exuded from every inch of him. Every move he made was done with dignity, elegance, and ease, to the point where it kept onlookers enraptured by this charm of his from the very beginning to the end.}He was handsome and had looks that were as brilliant as the moon on high, and that went without saying. Then there was that ever-peaceful temperаment of his, his ever-gentle smile, and that serene gaze, which was enough to entice the hearts of others, leaving them with a feeling of comfort once in his presence.

_{But even though Yan Ran was hoping to steal a few more glances at Fang Shixiu, he too had to call it in for the night due to that same man’s order for him to head to his room and get some rest.}
Rongruo sputtered out a laugh upon hearing those words. “Do you take me as some sort of villain?”

But even though Yan Ran was hoping to steal a few more glances at Fang Shixiu, he too had to call it in for the night due to that same man’s order for him to head to his room and get some rest.

That man seemed so carefree at that wedding, as if there was nothing that could disturb his mood. Regardless of whether it was Ximen Rongruo’s sadness or Yan Ran’s confounded distress.

_{He and Fang Shixiu had now become friends in what seemed to be an instant, and so, for the rest of the evening, the two spent all night talking and laughing with each other non-stop.}
“Well… I know now that you’re a really sweet person—a really great one, in fact! The kind of nice person who would even take care of his enemy.” Yan Ran said all this without hesitation, speaking as frankly as he always had before.

He and Fang Shixiu had now become friends in what seemed to be an instant, and so, for the rest of the evening, the two spent all night talking and laughing with each other non-stop.

_{But these were not the only reasons he stood out from everyone else because, in conjunction with his natural talents, the effort he had put into honing his skills was grand. He was the type to stay at the training ground to train on his own after everyone else had left.}With a white ribbon binding his now longer hair loosely—hair that was now the same lеngth as Fan Shixiu's—he was also dressed in similar clothes to the man he admired. So, in the eyes of those around them, on account of this, they looked no different than a pair of brothers.

_{He seemed quite energetic, as one might expect on the outside, yet those eyes of his kept darkening with a melancholic haze. But none of this was noticed if you gave him a paѕsing glance. So as long as someone did not look carefully, his gratefulness and serene smiling expression would make one think he was over the moon at being able to wed such a beautiful bride.}As he thought, he felt his mind dizzy. As he mused, he noticed his gaze grow dark. But that heart of his, that pure unsullied heart, still burned with a righteous fury. Then, for the first time, he realised as he descended that his feelings towards Fang Shixiu were not solely because he was his sister’s husband—at least now, after she had paѕsed.

_{Yan Ran stared in shock as Rongruo made this confession. It turned out, contrary to his expectations, that this was the way Fang Shixiu had regarded Rongruo.}“I made a bet with my father and Fang Shixiu. I bet that if I became the number one swordsman in the world, I would be allowed to not marry and that I would be allowed to freely choose my own future path. But…”

Yan Ran stared in shock as Rongruo made this confession. It turned out, contrary to his expectations, that this was the way Fang Shixiu had regarded Rongruo.

_{04.2: Envy}
Ximen Rongruo’s face stiffened when he heard those words, however, followed by a bitter smile as he spoke. “Yan Ran, you have no idea, do you? You have no idea how much I envy you. How you can do whatever you want—can say whatever you please—but I..."

04.2: Envy

_{The more Yan Ran saw this unrelenting determination of his, in fact, the more he seemingly understood.}Using the excuse that he was feeling a bit unwell, Ximen Rongruo pardoned himself to head back to his room. But when Fang Shixiu only told him to rest well and did nothing else in response when he bade him farewell, disappointment etched itself into the younger man’s heart, and he made his exit with unhappiness.

The more Yan Ran saw this unrelenting determination of his, in fact, the more he seemingly understood.

_{After the wedding ceremony, Yan Ran was planning to find the right moment to leave. But when he found it, Fang Shixiu walked over and grabbed him by the arm, leaning close to his ear before he whispered, “Stay, we’ll go back home together later tonight.”}With regard to his swordsmanship skills, his talents were also without question. A flexible and agile body, quick reflexes, swift swordplay, and lithe movements made him able to win a match in one move when his opponent never expected it.

_{With a white ribbon binding his now longer hair loosely—hair that was now the same lеngth as Fan Shixiu's—he was also dressed in similar clothes to the man he admired. So, in the eyes of those around them, on account of this, they looked no different than a pair of brothers.}“I made a bet with my father and Fang Shixiu. I bet that if I became the number one swordsman in the world, I would be allowed to not marry and that I would be allowed to freely choose my own future path. But…”

_{While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.}
Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”

While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.

_{The interaction between them was done with such little restraint that the smiling expression worn by Fang Shixiu during their interaction was incredibly relaxed. There was not a single trace of the patience and tolerant visage he usually wore when dealing with them both.}That man was combing his hair, neatly urging his jet-black strands towards his back, where they hung. As Yan Ran watched those smooth and primly snipped ends sway with each of that man’s movements, that heart of his was also made to flutter in turn.

_{“I have some business to take care of, so I’m going to visit Xuanyuan Wuji. As for you, don’t move; you need to rest for a while longer. I already told the cook to make you something, and after you’re done eating, you need to rest yourself well.”}
Rongruo sighed in response, hiding his face in his palms before working up the nerve to answer, “I know how he sees me. In his eyes, I am just a kid—he even said he considers me his fourth child.”

_☆☆☆Xuanyuan Wuji was a sturdy fellow with handsome features—features so wonderfully sculpted and proportioned that one would think he was a carving from a master sculptor made flesh.

☆☆☆

_{Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”}Unlike him, Ximen Rongruo made it to the second round of the competition. His swordplay was graceful but not glitzy, delicate but not gaudy. He was like a brilliant pearl in the moonlight. Even in the sunlight, his slender and flexible blade glistened. And when caressed by his fingers, it released an enchanting hum. But even a comparative novice like Yan Ran could tell what he lacked despite his radiance. It was a murderous aura, a deterrent that all top-level sword masters must invariably possess.

Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”

_{Yan Ran looked on as the departing figure disappeared into the distance, unable to stop the sliver of pity he felt for the guy who had left. That young master, raised in the lap of luxury provided by the noble House Ximen’s well-endowed coffers, turned out to be a helplessly pitiful child when thrυst into the outside world.}
Yan Ran stared in shock as Rongruo made this confession. It turned out, contrary to his expectations, that this was the way Fang Shixiu had regarded Rongruo.

Yan Ran looked on as the departing figure disappeared into the distance, unable to stop the sliver of pity he felt for the guy who had left. That young master, raised in the lap of luxury provided by the noble House Ximen’s well-endowed coffers, turned out to be a helplessly pitiful child when thrυst into the outside world.

_{While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.}“You are welcome. When I saw you lying unconscious in the rain from my window, it gave me quite a fright. But thankfully, you seem to be alright now. Xiu, are you going out? If so, I will take care of Yan Ran in the meantime.”

While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.

“You are welcome. When I saw you lying unconscious in the rain from my window, it gave me quite a fright. But thankfully, you seem to be alright now. Xiu, are you going out? If so, I will take care of Yan Ran in the meantime.”

_{“You are welcome. When I saw you lying unconscious in the rain from my window, it gave me quite a fright. But thankfully, you seem to be alright now. Xiu, are you going out? If so, I will take care of Yan Ran in the meantime.”}“Don’t thank me. It was Rongruo who took care of you all night. I was rather intoxicated last night, and after I got back here, I saw you clutching his hand tightly while you slept like a baby.”

_{“I have some business to take care of, so I’m going to visit Xuanyuan Wuji. As for you, don’t move; you need to rest for a while longer. I already told the cook to make you something, and after you’re done eating, you need to rest yourself well.”}“Well… I know now that you’re a really sweet person—a really great one, in fact! The kind of nice person who would even take care of his enemy.” Yan Ran said all this without hesitation, speaking as frankly as he always had before.

_{Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.}Rongruo got a small stool after Fang Shixiu’s departure, then took a seat beside Yan Ran’s bed.

Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.

_{In this world, many things are of a mystifying nature, and one such thing is the relationships between people.}
Yan Ran nodded in lieu of speaking an answer, and Rongruo continued in return.

In this world, many things are of a mystifying nature, and one such thing is the relationships between people.

_{{Fang Shixiu… Oh, Fang Shixiu! How can there be someone like you in this world?}}With a white ribbon binding his now longer hair loosely—hair that was now the same lеngth as Fan Shixiu's—he was also dressed in similar clothes to the man he admired. So, in the eyes of those around them, on account of this, they looked no different than a pair of brothers.

Fang Shixiu… Oh, Fang Shixiu! How can there be someone like you in this world?

_{But he lost.}
“I made a bet with my father and Fang Shixiu. I bet that if I became the number one swordsman in the world, I would be allowed to not marry and that I would be allowed to freely choose my own future path. But…”

But he lost.

_{Fang Shixiu turned back after a moment, looking at the entranced youth as he asked, “You’re up now. Are you feeling better?”}But it was the majestic grandeur of his nobility that did more to captivate the hearts of others than his beauty, unlike the delicacy that was Ximen Ronruo’s. A natural, royal kind of charm exuded from every inch of him. Every move he made was done with dignity, elegance, and ease, to the point where it kept onlookers enraptured by this charm of his from the very beginning to the end.

Fang Shixiu turned back after a moment, looking at the entranced youth as he asked, “You’re up now. Are you feeling better?”

_{Yan Ran did his best to remеmber, at his questioning, until he finally recalled himself getting caught in the rain.}The crowd had long abandoned themselves in the thrilling sight—every muscle tensed, every gaze firmly locked as they poured their all into witnessing that fight.

Yan Ran did his best to remеmber, at his questioning, until he finally recalled himself getting caught in the rain.

_{It was even more pronounced when his obsidian-like eyes ensnared a person in their gaze. Whether it be a man or woman, all were helplessly captured the same.}
Yan Ran’s jaw dropped.

It was even more pronounced when his obsidian-like eyes ensnared a person in their gaze. Whether it be a man or woman, all were helplessly captured the same.

_{Xuanyuan Wuji was a sturdy fellow with handsome features—features so wonderfully sculpted and proportioned that one would think he was a carving from a master sculptor made flesh.}Using the excuse that he was feeling a bit unwell, Ximen Rongruo pardoned himself to head back to his room. But when Fang Shixiu only told him to rest well and did nothing else in response when he bade him farewell, disappointment etched itself into the younger man’s heart, and he made his exit with unhappiness.

Xuanyuan Wuji was a sturdy fellow with handsome features—features so wonderfully sculpted and proportioned that one would think he was a carving from a master sculptor made flesh.

_{As he thought, he felt his mind dizzy. As he mused, he noticed his gaze grow dark. But that heart of his, that pure unsullied heart, still burned with a righteous fury. Then, for the first time, he realised as he descended that his feelings towards Fang Shixiu were not solely because he was his sister’s husband—at least now, after she had paѕsed.}
“Are you getting married, then? How come I don't know about any of this?”

_{Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”}The more Yan Ran saw this unrelenting determination of his, in fact, the more he seemingly understood.

Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”

_{Ximen Rongruo’s face stiffened when he heard those words, however, followed by a bitter smile as he spoke. “Yan Ran, you have no idea, do you? You have no idea how much I envy you. How you can do whatever you want—can say whatever you please—but I..."}
“My family has long been in great debt due to mismanagement, and the Ye family, the ones who proposed the marriage to my father, are quite wealthy. What’s more… I’m already seventeen years of age, and my parents also want grandchildren…”

_{“About my loss during this competition, do you want to know why I was so distraught?”}So, as a result, in this second round, Ximen Rongruo lost.

“About my loss during this competition, do you want to know why I was so distraught?”

_N/A
Ximen Rongruo’s face was devoid of colour as he spoke, his eyes flіckering as he stared at Yan Ran. “You will never know just how much I envy you. You have no idea at all.”

N/A

_{Ximen Rongruo’s face was devoid of colour as he spoke, his eyes flіckering as he stared at Yan Ran. “You will never know just how much I envy you. You have no idea at all.”}Fang Shixiu, in response, nimbly twisted his body to avoid the sword attacking him. Then, stiffening his right wrist and flipping it upwards, the double-edged sword in his hand accurately darted threw the gap between his opponent’s legs before, with a flіcker, his body phased to now reside at that man’s back, where that thrown sword was captured. Finally, with a back-handed grip, he lifted his sword, pressing its tip flush against Xuanyuan Wuji’s chеst, which had belatedly turned to meet him.

Ximen Rongruo’s face was devoid of colour as he spoke, his eyes flіckering as he stared at Yan Ran. “You will never know just how much I envy you. You have no idea at all.”

☆☆☆

_{With a white ribbon binding his now longer hair loosely—hair that was now the same lеngth as Fan Shixiu's—he was also dressed in similar clothes to the man he admired. So, in the eyes of those around them, on account of this, they looked no different than a pair of brothers.}
After six years of struggle, the Ximen Sect was finally able to recapture the highest honour and bring the Imperial Sword bestowed on the winner of the Sword that Moves the World, back into their grasp.

_{Unlike him, Ximen Rongruo made it to the second round of the competition. His swordplay was graceful but not glitzy, delicate but not gaudy.}The Imperial Sword was an honorary award gifted to the winning sect of the competition between the five great houses. It represented supreme authority and honour, as it was bestowed by the emperor of Shengyang himself.

_{“You are welcome. When I saw you lying unconscious in the rain from my window, it gave me quite a fright. But thankfully, you seem to be alright now. Xiu, are you going out? If so, I will take care of Yan Ran in the meantime.”}Fang Shixiu, in response, nimbly twisted his body to avoid the sword attacking him. Then, stiffening his right wrist and flipping it upwards, the double-edged sword in his hand accurately darted threw the gap between his opponent’s legs before, with a flіcker, his body phased to now reside at that man’s back, where that thrown sword was captured. Finally, with a back-handed grip, he lifted his sword, pressing its tip flush against Xuanyuan Wuji’s chеst, which had belatedly turned to meet him.

_{Yan Ran stared in shock as Rongruo made this confession. It turned out, contrary to his expectations, that this was the way Fang Shixiu had regarded Rongruo.}Yan Ran was the first to break the silence, unable to stand it any longer. “Rongruo. I’m sorry.”

Yan Ran stared in shock as Rongruo made this confession. It turned out, contrary to his expectations, that this was the way Fang Shixiu had regarded Rongruo.

_{Ximen Rongruo’s face was devoid of colour as he spoke, his eyes flіckering as he stared at Yan Ran. “You will never know just how much I envy you. You have no idea at all.”}
The Imperial Sword was an honorary award gifted to the winning sect of the competition between the five great houses. It represented supreme authority and honour, as it was bestowed by the emperor of Shengyang himself.

Ximen Rongruo’s face was devoid of colour as he spoke, his eyes flіckering as he stared at Yan Ran. “You will never know just how much I envy you. You have no idea at all.”

_{It all happened in a breath. From charging towards a dark path where only death seemed to await him—to emerging from the depths into a brilliant light—had taken Fang Shixiu no more than a quick breath to accomplish. But despite its brevity, it was nonetheless a show of pure mastery itself. Something that would soon be regarded as a piece of history itself.}He was intoxicated by Fang Shixiu’s charm. He longed for him—he adored him. More than anything, he yearned for that man’s love. More than anything, he wished for that man’s soothing embrace.

_{The more Yan Ran saw this unrelenting determination of his, in fact, the more he seemingly understood.}
House Ximen was in a state of pure exaltation; in fact, every inch of the main residence was strung with lights and decorations that outdid those used to usher in a new year.

The more Yan Ran saw this unrelenting determination of his, in fact, the more he seemingly understood.

_{Their match had gone on for two hours. Yet there was still no champion to declare.}“About my loss during this competition, do you want to know why I was so distraught?”

Their match had gone on for two hours. Yet there was still no champion to declare.

_{In this world, many things are of a mystifying nature, and one such thing is the relationships between people.}Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”

In this world, many things are of a mystifying nature, and one such thing is the relationships between people.

_{With that, Fang Shixiu tousled Rongruo’s hair, then made his way out.}Yan Ran was a bit reluctant at their parting; after all, what he wanted most at that moment was family to stay by his side.

With that, Fang Shixiu tousled Rongruo’s hair, then made his way out.

_{He seemed quite energetic, as one might expect on the outside, yet those eyes of his kept darkening with a melancholic haze. But none of this was noticed if you gave him a paѕsing glance. So as long as someone did not look carefully, his gratefulness and serene smiling expression would make one think he was over the moon at being able to wed such a beautiful bride.}After six years of struggle, the Ximen Sect was finally able to recapture the highest honour and bring the Imperial Sword bestowed on the winner of the Sword that Moves the World, back into their grasp.

_{“Are you getting married, then? How come I don't know about any of this?”}
This was also in part due to the upcoming nuptials of House Ximen’s sole young master, giving truth to the saying that good things come in pairs.

“Are you getting married, then? How come I don't know about any of this?”

_{In this world, many things are of a mystifying nature, and one such thing is the relationships between people.}That man seemed so carefree at that wedding, as if there was nothing that could disturb his mood. Regardless of whether it was Ximen Rongruo’s sadness or Yan Ran’s confounded distress.

In this world, many things are of a mystifying nature, and one such thing is the relationships between people.

_{After many cruel rounds of elimination, five of the most skilled competitors were chosen to represent the Ximen Sect. Fang Shixiu and Ximen Rongruo were of course included in this selection, but so was Yan Ran, who was lucky to defeat his opponents and claim the last available place.}Ximen Rongruo’s face was devoid of colour as he spoke, his eyes flіckering as he stared at Yan Ran. “You will never know just how much I envy you. You have no idea at all.”

_{After all the preparations were made, the five all made their way to the city of Tianshu in haste.}
From Ximen Danque to the servant busy with one odd job or another, everyone at the Ximen residence had an indescribable amount of joy etched on their faces. But on the day of Ximen Rongruo’s wedding, Yan Ran kept his concerned gaze focused on the young master, unable to shake the feeling of unease.

After all the preparations were made, the five all made their way to the city of Tianshu in haste.

_{“Well… I know now that you’re a really sweet person—a really great one, in fact! The kind of nice person who would even take care of his enemy.” Yan Ran said all this without hesitation, speaking as frankly as he always had before.}It was even more pronounced when his obsidian-like eyes ensnared a person in their gaze. Whether it be a man or woman, all were helplessly captured the same.

_{In this world, many things are of a mystifying nature, and one such thing is the relationships between people.}He and Fang Shixiu had now become friends in what seemed to be an instant, and so, for the rest of the evening, the two spent all night talking and laughing with each other non-stop.

In this world, many things are of a mystifying nature, and one such thing is the relationships between people.

_{Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.}That man was combing his hair, neatly urging his jet-black strands towards his back, where they hung. As Yan Ran watched those smooth and primly snipped ends sway with each of that man’s movements, that heart of his was also made to flutter in turn.

Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.

_{This was also in part due to the upcoming nuptials of House Ximen’s sole young master, giving truth to the saying that good things come in pairs.}Yan Ran looked on as the departing figure disappeared into the distance, unable to stop the sliver of pity he felt for the guy who had left. That young master, raised in the lap of luxury provided by the noble House Ximen’s well-endowed coffers, turned out to be a helplessly pitiful child when thrυst into the outside world.

This was also in part due to the upcoming nuptials of House Ximen’s sole young master, giving truth to the saying that good things come in pairs.

_{Contrary to the others, Yan Ran and Ximen Rongruo sat together and drank in silence that night, both feeling that Fang Shixiu and the others existed in a realm beyond their own.}
He seemed quite energetic, as one might expect on the outside, yet those eyes of his kept darkening with a melancholic haze. But none of this was noticed if you gave him a paѕsing glance. So as long as someone did not look carefully, his gratefulness and serene smiling expression would make one think he was over the moon at being able to wed such a beautiful bride.

Contrary to the others, Yan Ran and Ximen Rongruo sat together and drank in silence that night, both feeling that Fang Shixiu and the others existed in a realm beyond their own.

_{But in this world, nothing is absolute. There did exist a special few who did not fall prey to such allure, and such a person was drаped in all white. His grace and bearing were just as prominent as Xuanyuan Wuji's, and none could tell which of their majesties could be described as greater.}Xuanyuan Wuji was a sturdy fellow with handsome features—features so wonderfully sculpted and proportioned that one would think he was a carving from a master sculptor made flesh.

_{From Ximen Danque to the servant busy with one odd job or another, everyone at the Ximen residence had an indescribable amount of joy etched on their faces. But on the day of Ximen Rongruo’s wedding, Yan Ran kept his concerned gaze focused on the young master, unable to shake the feeling of unease.}That man was combing his hair, neatly urging his jet-black strands towards his back, where they hung. As Yan Ran watched those smooth and primly snipped ends sway with each of that man’s movements, that heart of his was also made to flutter in turn.

_{“I have some business to take care of, so I’m going to visit Xuanyuan Wuji. As for you, don’t move; you need to rest for a while longer. I already told the cook to make you something, and after you’re done eating, you need to rest yourself well.”}But even though Yan Ran was hoping to steal a few more glances at Fang Shixiu, he too had to call it in for the night due to that same man’s order for him to head to his room and get some rest.

_{Yan Ran nodded in lieu of speaking an answer, and Rongruo continued in return.}
Fang Shixiu served as his best man, and it was the first time that man wasn’t dressed in all white. But even while dressed in a pale pink robe, the youthfulness it made him encompaѕs, along with his natural grace, caused him to still steal all of the budding groom’s glory.

Yan Ran nodded in lieu of speaking an answer, and Rongruo continued in return.

_{Unlike him, Ximen Rongruo made it to the second round of the competition. His swordplay was graceful but not glitzy, delicate but not gaudy.}While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.

_{Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.}
Witnessing the sight, Yan Ran felt conflicted. He couldn't, for the life of him, figure out Fang Shixiu’s heart. What exactly does Rongruo mean to him?

Forced to sit in the stands with the rest of the crowd for the remainder of the event, Yan Ran held mixed feelings in his heart.

_{This was also in part due to the upcoming nuptials of House Ximen’s sole young master, giving truth to the saying that good things come in pairs.}With a white ribbon binding his now longer hair loosely—hair that was now the same lеngth as Fan Shixiu's—he was also dressed in similar clothes to the man he admired. So, in the eyes of those around them, on account of this, they looked no different than a pair of brothers.

This was also in part due to the upcoming nuptials of House Ximen’s sole young master, giving truth to the saying that good things come in pairs.

_{That man seemed so carefree at that wedding, as if there was nothing that could disturb his mood. Regardless of whether it was Ximen Rongruo’s sadness or Yan Ran’s confounded distress.}It all happened in a breath. From charging towards a dark path where only death seemed to await him—to emerging from the depths into a brilliant light—had taken Fang Shixiu no more than a quick breath to accomplish. But despite its brevity, it was nonetheless a show of pure mastery itself. Something that would soon be regarded as a piece of history itself.

That man seemed so carefree at that wedding, as if there was nothing that could disturb his mood. Regardless of whether it was Ximen Rongruo’s sadness or Yan Ran’s confounded distress.

_{But it was the majestic grandeur of his nobility that did more to captivate the hearts of others than his beauty, unlike the delicacy that was Ximen Ronruo’s. A natural, royal kind of charm exuded from every inch of him. Every move he made was done with dignity, elegance, and ease, to the point where it kept onlookers enraptured by this charm of his from the very beginning to the end.}
That man seemed so carefree at that wedding, as if there was nothing that could disturb his mood. Regardless of whether it was Ximen Rongruo’s sadness or Yan Ran’s confounded distress.

_{Xuanyuan Wuji was a sturdy fellow with handsome features—features so wonderfully sculpted and proportioned that one would think he was a carving from a master sculptor made flesh.}☆☆☆

Xuanyuan Wuji was a sturdy fellow with handsome features—features so wonderfully sculpted and proportioned that one would think he was a carving from a master sculptor made flesh.

_{Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”}So, too, was our Yan Ran, whose heart pounded so fiercely that he feared it might stop. He wished to the heavens that he had possessed eight pairs of eyes, just so he could watch that exquisitely complex match from every conceivable angle.

Yan Ran nodded. “Thank you for helping me.”

_{Whether it was attacking or defending, both were impressively skilled. Even the elegance of their movements and the beauty of their swordplay were a match on every scale. And despite there being no discernible movements within their expressions, that silence nonetheless roared with the thundering of hearts.}
After the wedding ceremony, Yan Ran was planning to find the right moment to leave. But when he found it, Fang Shixiu walked over and grabbed him by the arm, leaning close to his ear before he whispered, “Stay, we’ll go back home together later tonight.”

_{“Huh?” Yan Ran was so shocked that he shot upward. But Fang Shixiu made him lie back down just as quickly.}In the final match, he would face off against Xuanyuan Wuji, the eldest son of House Xuanyuan itself.

“Huh?” Yan Ran was so shocked that he shot upward. But Fang Shixiu made him lie back down just as quickly.

_{Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.}“Are you getting married, then? How come I don't know about any of this?”

Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.

_{Yan Ran was brimming with enthusiasm at the thought of showing off his skills and gaining Fang Shixiu’s attention. But the heavens were not on his side during his match, and he was eliminated during the preliminary round—when the competition had just begun.}
Yan Ran opened his mouth, wanting to ask more, but Fang Shixiu had already swiftly walked away.

_{Yan Ran stared in shock as Rongruo made this confession. It turned out, contrary to his expectations, that this was the way Fang Shixiu had regarded Rongruo.}Their match had gone on for two hours. Yet there was still no champion to declare.

Yan Ran stared in shock as Rongruo made this confession. It turned out, contrary to his expectations, that this was the way Fang Shixiu had regarded Rongruo.

_{He was handsome and had looks that were as brilliant as the moon on high, and that went without saying. Then there was that ever-peaceful temperаment of his, his ever-gentle smile, and that serene gaze, which was enough to entice the hearts of others, leaving them with a feeling of comfort once in his presence.}Yan Ran was a bit reluctant at their parting; after all, what he wanted most at that moment was family to stay by his side.

_{Yan Ran looked on at that scene as though all of his breath was stolen because, in this brief moment, Fang Shixiu was as perfect as a god in his eyes.}
Since Yan Ran had entered the Ximen Sect, this was the first time that man had ever taken it upon himself to invite him back to the house together.

Yan Ran looked on at that scene as though all of his breath was stolen because, in this brief moment, Fang Shixiu was as perfect as a god in his eyes.

_{“My family has long been in great debt due to mismanagement, and the Ye family, the ones who proposed the marriage to my father, are quite wealthy. What’s more… I’m already seventeen years of age, and my parents also want grandchildren…”}Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”

_{The two left alone in the room now stared at the other for a while, neither saying a word.}
Honestly, it made Yan Ran both excited and a bit uneasy. Regardless, he had a sinking feeling that something out of the ordinary would take place on this night.

The two left alone in the room now stared at the other for a while, neither saying a word.

_{While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.}The Imperial Sword was an honorary award gifted to the winning sect of the competition between the five great houses. It represented supreme authority and honour, as it was bestowed by the emperor of Shengyang himself.

While they had to depend on Fang Shixiu’s grace, Xuanyuan Wuji could coexist with that man freely and as an equal.

_{“You are welcome. When I saw you lying unconscious in the rain from my window, it gave me quite a fright. But thankfully, you seem to be alright now. Xiu, are you going out? If so, I will take care of Yan Ran in the meantime.”}Using the excuse that he was feeling a bit unwell, Ximen Rongruo pardoned himself to head back to his room. But when Fang Shixiu only told him to rest well and did nothing else in response when he bade him farewell, disappointment etched itself into the younger man’s heart, and he made his exit with unhappiness.

_{Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”}Yan Ran stared at Rongruo curiously as his words faltered. “Is there something wrong? Is there something you’re afraid of saying?”

Fang Shixiu walked over to the bedside, extending a hand to touch his forehead. “Good. It feels like your fever has already broken. Why did you go running around in the rain last night, anyhow?”

Author's Note:

N/A

Notes:

iana: Han Xiling is a character in book 2 of this series.

Updated every Friday. Raws: Kobo

Brother-in-law: C04-2

04.2: Envy

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