Brother-in-law: C07-1

07.1: The Colour of the Wind

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

_{Having lived through those happy and unhappy days, he had grown more mature with time, as did Ximen Rongruo. The young master had grown more and more in terms of grandeur. He was now a great master. One who was calm, refined, and even seasoned.}
Not a soul was there when Yan Ran’s eyes again opened. After being stunned for a second, he hopped out of bed, scrаmbled to pull on his clothes, and then ran out of the room in a flurry.

Having lived through those happy and unhappy days, he had grown more mature with time, as did Ximen Rongruo. The young master had grown more and more in terms of grandeur. He was now a great master. One who was calm, refined, and even seasoned.

_{Without giving an answer, Fang Shixiu bent down and surrounded Ximen Rongruo with his embrace. “Ruo’er, take good care of yourself, alright? You have what it takes to do this well. Trust in my words. So don’t let everyone down, understand?”}Witnessing such changes in Ximen Rongruo made Yan Ran unable to help but admit that Fang Shixiu’s choice to depart was indeed the right choice. Although the young sect master had to endure the excruciating pain of parting, akin to having one’s flesh severed, in the end, the Ximen Rongruo born from this experience was finally able to spreаd his wings and learn to fly on his own.

Without giving an answer, Fang Shixiu bent down and surrounded Ximen Rongruo with his embrace. “Ruo’er, take good care of yourself, alright? You have what it takes to do this well. Trust in my words. So don’t let everyone down, understand?”

_{Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.}“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.

Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.

_{All dreams held by Ye Jingting to become the overlord of the Ximen Sect were dashed. That young sect master, having broken free of his Fang Shixiu dependence, had grown far stronger than that man had envisioned. So despite his treating his father-in-law with the utmost respect, as far as anyone could see, the reality was that this elder, by law, was being kept under homebound confinement.}Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.

All dreams held by Ye Jingting to become the overlord of the Ximen Sect were dashed. That young sect master, having broken free of his Fang Shixiu dependence, had grown far stronger than that man had envisioned. So despite his treating his father-in-law with the utmost respect, as far as anyone could see, the reality was that this elder, by law, was being kept under homebound confinement.

_{“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.}One after the other, days paѕsed by. But although the branches grew in number and the leaves became more lush, no flowers bloomed within these ever-changing, never-changing landscapes. And such was Yan Ran’s current existence.

“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.

_{With that, Yan Ran hugged that man fiercely, his arms latching onto him so tightly that it appeared he had no intention of ever letting him go.}
Fang Shixiu! Why would you not even let me see you off for the last time?

With that, Yan Ran hugged that man fiercely, his arms latching onto him so tightly that it appeared he had no intention of ever letting him go.

One after the other, days paѕsed by. But although the branches grew in number and the leaves became more lush, no flowers bloomed within these ever-changing, never-changing landscapes. And such was Yan Ran’s current existence.

_{Yan Ran was happy for him—quite so, in fact. He was now the most capable aide at Rongruo’s side—he was his friend.}Falling in love with Fang Shixiu meant loving him until death.

Yan Ran was happy for him—quite so, in fact. He was now the most capable aide at Rongruo’s side—he was his friend.

_{After paѕsing through the Ximen Sect’s gates, Yan Ran followed along at Fang Shixiu's side cautiously. But apart from lightly biting his lips, he did not shed any tears.}
Yan Ran rode his horse straight over to the Ximen Sect, not even tying off his horse before he bolted to the training ground.

After paѕsing through the Ximen Sect’s gates, Yan Ran followed along at Fang Shixiu's side cautiously. But apart from lightly biting his lips, he did not shed any tears.

_{“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.}The sword in Yan Ran’s hand fell to the floor with a thud, the sharpened blade just missing his foot.

“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.

_{At the dinner table, he was alone. Before, there was Fang Shixiu and his three children. Kids who were always lively but now... Unable to eat a further bite, Yan Ran pushed the bowl away and headed to his room. But, without realising it, his steps took him to Fang Shixiu’s instead.}Yan Ran was in the middle of training when Ximen Rongruo was first given word. The young Sect Master’s face paled, his legs carrying over to Yan Ran in haste. The words he spoke left him in a rush. “Something happened… Something happened to Fang Shixiu!”

At the dinner table, he was alone. Before, there was Fang Shixiu and his three children. Kids who were always lively but now... Unable to eat a further bite, Yan Ran pushed the bowl away and headed to his room. But, without realising it, his steps took him to Fang Shixiu’s instead.

_{But right then, the yearning Yan Ran noticed a letter pressed under the inkstone on the table. His feet moved before his mind reacted. To see what the note was, it was left by Fang Shixiu.}“The feeling was mutual,” Yan Ran replied with a snort. “I had no idea how to handle him either.”

But right then, the yearning Yan Ran noticed a letter pressed under the inkstone on the table. His feet moved before his mind reacted. To see what the note was, it was left by Fang Shixiu.

_{“Because Fang Shixiu was more imposing.”}
Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.

“Because Fang Shixiu was more imposing.”

_{After paѕsing through the Ximen Sect’s gates, Yan Ran followed along at Fang Shixiu's side cautiously. But apart from lightly biting his lips, he did not shed any tears.}Fang Shixiu! Why would you not even let me see you off for the last time?

After paѕsing through the Ximen Sect’s gates, Yan Ran followed along at Fang Shixiu's side cautiously. But apart from lightly biting his lips, he did not shed any tears.

_{It was as simple as that. There was no need to say anything more.}“Because Fang Shixiu was more imposing.”

It was as simple as that. There was no need to say anything more.

_{“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.}Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.

“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.

_{Not a soul was there when Yan Ran’s eyes again opened. After being stunned for a second, he hopped out of bed, scrаmbled to pull on his clothes, and then ran out of the room in a flurry.}I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”

Not a soul was there when Yan Ran’s eyes again opened. After being stunned for a second, he hopped out of bed, scrаmbled to pull on his clothes, and then ran out of the room in a flurry.

_{Given everything he had seen of Ximen Rongruo during the current situation, despite that sect master's tendency to be introverted by nature, he was neither weak nor a pushover by any measure. So why was it that when he faced Fang Shixiu, he turned into someone so timid?}
Ximen Rongruo was also present, his flυstered emotion clearly shown in his eyes. Contrary to expectations, he avoided that man’s embrace, falling onto a nearby bench from where he asked, “When will we see one another again?”

Given everything he had seen of Ximen Rongruo during the current situation, despite that sect master's tendency to be introverted by nature, he was neither weak nor a pushover by any measure. So why was it that when he faced Fang Shixiu, he turned into someone so timid?

_{Yan Ran’s arm shot out, grabbing hold of the hem of Fang Shixiu’s clothes. He then flung himself in that man’s arms and clamped his teeth onto that man’s ear before saying, “No matter how far you go, I’ll catch up to you! I swear it!”}But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.

Yan Ran’s arm shot out, grabbing hold of the hem of Fang Shixiu’s clothes. He then flung himself in that man’s arms and clamped his teeth onto that man’s ear before saying, “No matter how far you go, I’ll catch up to you! I swear it!”

Shock wiped away every other emotion from Yan Ran at that moment; there was no way to gauge how great of an impact this incident had on Fang Shixiu. Like a rising tide, a wave of sadness gradually began rising within him. From the soles of his feet, it swelled and swelled until it reached his crown. Once there, it brought a chill and made every part there erupt in a tingle.

_{All dreams held by Ye Jingting to become the overlord of the Ximen Sect were dashed. That young sect master, having broken free of his Fang Shixiu dependence, had grown far stronger than that man had envisioned. So despite his treating his father-in-law with the utmost respect, as far as anyone could see, the reality was that this elder, by law, was being kept under homebound confinement.}
Without giving an answer, Fang Shixiu bent down and surrounded Ximen Rongruo with his embrace. “Ruo’er, take good care of yourself, alright? You have what it takes to do this well. Trust in my words. So don’t let everyone down, understand?”

_{Yan Ran was in the middle of training when Ximen Rongruo was first given word. The young Sect Master’s face paled, his legs carrying over to Yan Ran in haste. The words he spoke left him in a rush. “Something happened… Something happened to Fang Shixiu!”}Before Fang Shixiu got onto his carriage, he also bade the ones who came to see him off his final farewells, and when he made his way towards Yan Ran, the younger man felt as though his breaths had come to a complete stop.

Yan Ran was in the middle of training when Ximen Rongruo was first given word. The young Sect Master’s face paled, his legs carrying over to Yan Ran in haste. The words he spoke left him in a rush. “Something happened… Something happened to Fang Shixiu!”

_{Shock wiped away every other emotion from Yan Ran at that moment; there was no way to gauge how great of an impact this incident had on Fang Shixiu. Like a rising tide, a wave of sadness gradually began rising within him. From the soles of his feet, it swelled and swelled until it reached his crown. Once there, it brought a chill and made every part there erupt in a tingle.}Fang Shixiu chuckled before the last words they would share left his lips: “You should head back home first, alright? Goodbye.”

_N/AIt wasn’t until a servant informed him it was time to eat that he rose from the floor, as if awakening from a dream.

N/A

_{07.1: The Colour of the Wind}
But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.

07.1: The Colour of the Wind

_{Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.}Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.

Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.

_{“Alright then. I’ll be on my way now.”}Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.

“Alright then. I’ll be on my way now.”

_{Yan Ran was happy for him—quite so, in fact. He was now the most capable aide at Rongruo’s side—he was his friend.}He hugged Yan Ran as if nothing were amiss, then, towards the pair of pitch-black eyes looking back at him, he whispered, “Ranran…”

Yan Ran was happy for him—quite so, in fact. He was now the most capable aide at Rongruo’s side—he was his friend.

_{But right then, the yearning Yan Ran noticed a letter pressed under the inkstone on the table. His feet moved before his mind reacted. To see what the note was, it was left by Fang Shixiu.}As for you, I believed you would hate me. But, far beyond my wildest expectations, you became infatuated with me instead. It’s… pitiable.

But right then, the yearning Yan Ran noticed a letter pressed under the inkstone on the table. His feet moved before his mind reacted. To see what the note was, it was left by Fang Shixiu.

_N/A
“Alright then. I’ll be on my way now.”

N/A

_{“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.}Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.

“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.

_N/A
Soon, the gates of the training grounds were shut, and it was only then that the silent Ximen Rongruo lifted his tear-stained face. Yan Ran believed the crying man would yell and chase after Fang Shixiu, but all he did was mutter in voice, barely above a whisper, “Yan Ran, can you... please?”

N/A

_{Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.}“The feeling was mutual,” Yan Ran replied with a snort. “I had no idea how to handle him either.”

Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.

_{Yan Ran joined him, as he was indeed a person who refused to back down. Once he set his sights on a goal, he would chase after it until the very end.}
Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.

Yan Ran joined him, as he was indeed a person who refused to back down. Once he set his sights on a goal, he would chase after it until the very end.

_N/AOnce there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.

N/A

_{He hugged Yan Ran as if nothing were amiss, then, towards the pair of pitch-black eyes looking back at him, he whispered, “Ranran…”}Curious, Yan Ran once asked Rongruo something that had always bothered him now that they were close. “Do you remеmber when we first met and you asked Fang Shixiu to move into your house and that he should only accept you as his disciple in this life? To me, the you from back then seemed like an extremely proactive person. So why did you choose to be so meek later on?”

He hugged Yan Ran as if nothing were amiss, then, towards the pair of pitch-black eyes looking back at him, he whispered, “Ranran…”

_{“Alright then. I’ll be on my way now.”}Having lived through those happy and unhappy days, he had grown more mature with time, as did Ximen Rongruo. The young master had grown more and more in terms of grandeur. He was now a great master. One who was calm, refined, and even seasoned.

“Alright then. I’ll be on my way now.”

_{A year had paѕsed. The grand competition in Shenyang, The Sword that Ruled the World, neared, and it was then that bad news made its way back to the Ximen Sect.}
After paѕsing through the Ximen Sect’s gates, Yan Ran followed along at Fang Shixiu's side cautiously. But apart from lightly biting his lips, he did not shed any tears.

A year had paѕsed. The grand competition in Shenyang, The Sword that Ruled the World, neared, and it was then that bad news made its way back to the Ximen Sect.

_{“The feeling was mutual,” Yan Ran replied with a snort. “I had no idea how to handle him either.”}Yan Ran rode his horse straight over to the Ximen Sect, not even tying off his horse before he bolted to the training ground.

“The feeling was mutual,” Yan Ran replied with a snort. “I had no idea how to handle him either.”

_{Yan Ran rode his horse straight over to the Ximen Sect, not even tying off his horse before he bolted to the training ground.}Soon, the gates of the training grounds were shut, and it was only then that the silent Ximen Rongruo lifted his tear-stained face. Yan Ran believed the crying man would yell and chase after Fang Shixiu, but all he did was mutter in voice, barely above a whisper, “Yan Ran, can you... please?”

Yan Ran rode his horse straight over to the Ximen Sect, not even tying off his horse before he bolted to the training ground.

_{Curious, Yan Ran once asked Rongruo something that had always bothered him now that they were close. “Do you remеmber when we first met and you asked Fang Shixiu to move into your house and that he should only accept you as his disciple in this life? To me, the you from back then seemed like an extremely proactive person. So why did you choose to be so meek later on?”}
Before Fang Shixiu got onto his carriage, he also bade the ones who came to see him off his final farewells, and when he made his way towards Yan Ran, the younger man felt as though his breaths had come to a complete stop.

Curious, Yan Ran once asked Rongruo something that had always bothered him now that they were close. “Do you remеmber when we first met and you asked Fang Shixiu to move into your house and that he should only accept you as his disciple in this life? To me, the you from back then seemed like an extremely proactive person. So why did you choose to be so meek later on?”

_{After watching the carriage gradually fade into the distance, Yan Ran turned around and made his way home. His heart felt empty, but the pain he expected failed to show.}“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.

After watching the carriage gradually fade into the distance, Yan Ran turned around and made his way home. His heart felt empty, but the pain he expected failed to show. But once he pushed open the door of the house to see the chair Fang Shixiu used to sit on, the cup he would often use, alongside all those other items holding such sentiments that seemed to build bit by bit... Bitterness, akin to fermented wine, began filling Yan Ran’s chеst, making it impossible for him to stand. Like this, his legs gave way, and his body slid to the cold, hаrd ground.

_{Fang Shixiu chuckled before the last words they would share left his lips: “You should head back home first, alright? Goodbye.”}Witnessing such changes in Ximen Rongruo made Yan Ran unable to help but admit that Fang Shixiu’s choice to depart was indeed the right choice. Although the young sect master had to endure the excruciating pain of parting, akin to having one’s flesh severed, in the end, the Ximen Rongruo born from this experience was finally able to spreаd his wings and learn to fly on his own.

Fang Shixiu chuckled before the last words they would share left his lips: “You should head back home first, alright? Goodbye.”

_{Fang Shixiu, who wanted to be a Sword God… Fang Shixiu, who had devoted his life to the art of the sword... Is this really it? Is this going to force him to give up his sword?}
He hugged Yan Ran as if nothing were amiss, then, towards the pair of pitch-black eyes looking back at him, he whispered, “Ranran…”

Fang Shixiu, who wanted to be a Sword God… Fang Shixiu, who had devoted his life to the art of the sword... Is this really it? Is this going to force him to give up his sword?

_{Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.}Before Fang Shixiu got onto his carriage, he also bade the ones who came to see him off his final farewells, and when he made his way towards Yan Ran, the younger man felt as though his breaths had come to a complete stop.

Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.

_{Before Fang Shixiu got onto his carriage, he also bade the ones who came to see him off his final farewells, and when he made his way towards Yan Ran, the younger man felt as though his breaths had come to a complete stop.}
With that, Yan Ran hugged that man fiercely, his arms latching onto him so tightly that it appeared he had no intention of ever letting him go.

Before Fang Shixiu got onto his carriage, he also bade the ones who came to see him off his final farewells, and when he made his way towards Yan Ran, the younger man felt as though his breaths had come to a complete stop.

Not a soul was there when Yan Ran’s eyes again opened. After being stunned for a second, he hopped out of bed, scrаmbled to pull on his clothes, and then ran out of the room in a flurry.

_{Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”}Yan Ran:

Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”

_{Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.}
“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.

Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.

_{“Rongruo, these feelings of yours, I will carry them there with me, too.”}“Because Fang Shixiu was more imposing.”

“Rongruo, these feelings of yours, I will carry them there with me, too.”

Not a soul was there when Yan Ran’s eyes again opened. After being stunned for a second, he hopped out of bed, scrаmbled to pull on his clothes, and then ran out of the room in a flurry.

_{“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.}
Yan Ran’s arm shot out, grabbing hold of the hem of Fang Shixiu’s clothes. He then flung himself in that man’s arms and clamped his teeth onto that man’s ear before saying, “No matter how far you go, I’ll catch up to you! I swear it!”

“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.

_{This parting of ours is a rare chance for us to escape the temptation of this tragic fate.}Yan Ran was in the middle of training when Ximen Rongruo was first given word. The young Sect Master’s face paled, his legs carrying over to Yan Ran in haste. The words he spoke left him in a rush. “Something happened… Something happened to Fang Shixiu!”

This parting of ours is a rare chance for us to escape the temptation of this tragic fate.

_{“Alright then. I’ll be on my way now.”}Fang Shixiu! Why would you not even let me see you off for the last time?

“Alright then. I’ll be on my way now.”

_{But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.}
Fang Shixiu chuckled before the last words they would share left his lips: “You should head back home first, alright? Goodbye.”

But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.

_{“Rongruo, these feelings of yours, I will carry them there with me, too.”}This parting of ours is a rare chance for us to escape the temptation of this tragic fate.

“Rongruo, these feelings of yours, I will carry them there with me, too.”

Soon, the gates of the training grounds were shut, and it was only then that the silent Ximen Rongruo lifted his tear-stained face. Yan Ran believed the crying man would yell and chase after Fang Shixiu, but all he did was mutter in voice, barely above a whisper, “Yan Ran, can you... please?”

_{Not a soul was there when Yan Ran’s eyes again opened. After being stunned for a second, he hopped out of bed, scrаmbled to pull on his clothes, and then ran out of the room in a flurry.}-Shixiu

Not a soul was there when Yan Ran’s eyes again opened. After being stunned for a second, he hopped out of bed, scrаmbled to pull on his clothes, and then ran out of the room in a flurry.

_{Just last night, this place had been filled with so many shared emotions, yet, in the twinkling of an eye, those same two were now worlds apart. What a curious thing it was. What a fickle thing fate could be.}
After watching the carriage gradually fade into the distance, Yan Ran turned around and made his way home. His heart felt empty, but the pain he expected failed to show. But once he pushed open the door of the house to see the chair Fang Shixiu used to sit on, the cup he would often use, alongside all those other items holding such sentiments that seemed to build bit by bit... Bitterness, akin to fermented wine, began filling Yan Ran’s chеst, making it impossible for him to stand. Like this, his legs gave way, and his body slid to the cold, hаrd ground.

Just last night, this place had been filled with so many shared emotions, yet, in the twinkling of an eye, those same two were now worlds apart. What a curious thing it was. What a fickle thing fate could be.

_{He hugged Yan Ran as if nothing were amiss, then, towards the pair of pitch-black eyes looking back at him, he whispered, “Ranran…”}After paѕsing through the Ximen Sect’s gates, Yan Ran followed along at Fang Shixiu's side cautiously. But apart from lightly biting his lips, he did not shed any tears.

He hugged Yan Ran as if nothing were amiss, then, towards the pair of pitch-black eyes looking back at him, he whispered, “Ranran…”

_{But right then, the yearning Yan Ran noticed a letter pressed under the inkstone on the table. His feet moved before his mind reacted. To see what the note was, it was left by Fang Shixiu.}
It wasn’t until a servant informed him it was time to eat that he rose from the floor, as if awakening from a dream.

But right then, the yearning Yan Ran noticed a letter pressed under the inkstone on the table. His feet moved before his mind reacted. To see what the note was, it was left by Fang Shixiu.

_{Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.}His hurried steps quickly trailed behind Rongruo’s, back to the secret chamber where all their private matters were conducted and discussed.

Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.

_{I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”}Fang Shixiu, who wanted to be a Sword God… Fang Shixiu, who had devoted his life to the art of the sword... Is this really it? Is this going to force him to give up his sword?

I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”

_{At the dinner table, he was alone. Before, there was Fang Shixiu and his three children. Kids who were always lively but now... Unable to eat a further bite, Yan Ran pushed the bowl away and headed to his room. But, without realising it, his steps took him to Fang Shixiu’s instead.}
At the dinner table, he was alone. Before, there was Fang Shixiu and his three children. Kids who were always lively but now... Unable to eat a further bite, Yan Ran pushed the bowl away and headed to his room. But, without realising it, his steps took him to Fang Shixiu’s instead.

_{A spirit of the wind.}Rongruo’s reply was spoken with ease, and Yan Ran slowly came to understand his meaning. For two people to get along, if one had a firm temperаment, the other had to be soft. Otherwise, the clashes that could result would inevitably result in both of them getting hurt.

A spirit of the wind.

_{Yan Ran:}
Just last night, this place had been filled with so many shared emotions, yet, in the twinkling of an eye, those same two were now worlds apart. What a curious thing it was. What a fickle thing fate could be.

Yan Ran:

_{Shock wiped away every other emotion from Yan Ran at that moment; there was no way to gauge how great of an impact this incident had on Fang Shixiu. Like a rising tide, a wave of sadness gradually began rising within him. From the soles of his feet, it swelled and swelled until it reached his crown. Once there, it brought a chill and made every part there erupt in a tingle.}“That’s because neither of you was willing to yield,” Ximen Rongruo commented with a laugh.

_{Fang Shixiu chuckled before the last words they would share left his lips: “You should head back home first, alright? Goodbye.”}All dreams held by Ye Jingting to become the overlord of the Ximen Sect were dashed. That young sect master, having broken free of his Fang Shixiu dependence, had grown far stronger than that man had envisioned. So despite his treating his father-in-law with the utmost respect, as far as anyone could see, the reality was that this elder, by law, was being kept under homebound confinement.

Fang Shixiu chuckled before the last words they would share left his lips: “You should head back home first, alright? Goodbye.”

_{Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”}
But right then, the yearning Yan Ran noticed a letter pressed under the inkstone on the table. His feet moved before his mind reacted. To see what the note was, it was left by Fang Shixiu.

Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”

_{But right then, the yearning Yan Ran noticed a letter pressed under the inkstone on the table. His feet moved before his mind reacted. To see what the note was, it was left by Fang Shixiu.}He hugged Yan Ran as if nothing were amiss, then, towards the pair of pitch-black eyes looking back at him, he whispered, “Ranran…”

But right then, the yearning Yan Ran noticed a letter pressed under the inkstone on the table. His feet moved before his mind reacted. To see what the note was, it was left by Fang Shixiu.

_{“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.}Shock wiped away every other emotion from Yan Ran at that moment; there was no way to gauge how great of an impact this incident had on Fang Shixiu. Like a rising tide, a wave of sadness gradually began rising within him. From the soles of his feet, it swelled and swelled until it reached his crown. Once there, it brought a chill and made every part there erupt in a tingle.

“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.

_{Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”}But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.

Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”

_{“I received a report,” Rongruo explained. “It said that he injured his arm during a training session. It said the situation was quite grave. From the looks of it, he may not be able to wield a sword with his right hand again.”}After watching the carriage gradually fade into the distance, Yan Ran turned around and made his way home. His heart felt empty, but the pain he expected failed to show. But once he pushed open the door of the house to see the chair Fang Shixiu used to sit on, the cup he would often use, alongside all those other items holding such sentiments that seemed to build bit by bit... Bitterness, akin to fermented wine, began filling Yan Ran’s chеst, making it impossible for him to stand. Like this, his legs gave way, and his body slid to the cold, hаrd ground.

“I received a report,” Rongruo explained. “It said that he injured his arm during a training session. It said the situation was quite grave. From the looks of it, he may not be able to wield a sword with his right hand again.”

_{It was as simple as that. There was no need to say anything more.}
Yan Ran:

It was as simple as that. There was no need to say anything more.

_{“Because Fang Shixiu was more imposing.”}Yan Ran’s arm shot out, grabbing hold of the hem of Fang Shixiu’s clothes. He then flung himself in that man’s arms and clamped his teeth onto that man’s ear before saying, “No matter how far you go, I’ll catch up to you! I swear it!”

“Because Fang Shixiu was more imposing.”

_{Curious, Yan Ran once asked Rongruo something that had always bothered him now that they were close. “Do you remеmber when we first met and you asked Fang Shixiu to move into your house and that he should only accept you as his disciple in this life? To me, the you from back then seemed like an extremely proactive person. So why did you choose to be so meek later on?”}All dreams held by Ye Jingting to become the overlord of the Ximen Sect were dashed. That young sect master, having broken free of his Fang Shixiu dependence, had grown far stronger than that man had envisioned. So despite his treating his father-in-law with the utmost respect, as far as anyone could see, the reality was that this elder, by law, was being kept under homebound confinement.

_{Witnessing such changes in Ximen Rongruo made Yan Ran unable to help but admit that Fang Shixiu’s choice to depart was indeed the right choice. Although the young sect master had to endure the excruciating pain of parting, akin to having one’s flesh severed, in the end, the Ximen Rongruo born from this experience was finally able to spreаd his wings and learn to fly on his own.}
Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.

Witnessing such changes in Ximen Rongruo made Yan Ran unable to help but admit that Fang Shixiu’s choice to depart was indeed the right choice. Although the young sect master had to endure the excruciating pain of parting, akin to having one’s flesh severed, in the end, the Ximen Rongruo born from this experience was finally able to spreаd his wings and learn to fly on his own.

_{07.1: The Colour of the Wind}-Shixiu

07.1: The Colour of the Wind

_{He hugged Yan Ran as if nothing were amiss, then, towards the pair of pitch-black eyes looking back at him, he whispered, “Ranran…”}
Back then, there was once a peculiar young man. One who had golden locks that shone and who was quite fond of running. Whenever he ran, he was unlike anyone in this world. He was as beautiful as the wind. I adored calling him Jingling (elf/spirit)…

He hugged Yan Ran as if nothing were amiss, then, towards the pair of pitch-black eyes looking back at him, he whispered, “Ranran…”

_{The sword in Yan Ran’s hand fell to the floor with a thud, the sharpened blade just missing his foot.}-Shixiu

The sword in Yan Ran’s hand fell to the floor with a thud, the sharpened blade just missing his foot.

_{“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.}“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.

“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.

_{“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.}
A spirit of the wind.

“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.

_{Falling in love with Fang Shixiu meant loving him until death.}“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.

Falling in love with Fang Shixiu meant loving him until death.

_{But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.}“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.

But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.

_{Falling in love with Fang Shixiu meant loving him until death.}
I was enamoured with him to my core. I was unable to get so much as a wink of a good night’s sleep. All because I devoted all I was towards gaining his favour. But, unfortunately for me, he chose to give his heart to another—a crude and savage person at that.

Falling in love with Fang Shixiu meant loving him until death.

_{Soon, the gates of the training grounds were shut, and it was only then that the silent Ximen Rongruo lifted his tear-stained face. Yan Ran believed the crying man would yell and chase after Fang Shixiu, but all he did was mutter in voice, barely above a whisper, “Yan Ran, can you... please?”}But right then, the yearning Yan Ran noticed a letter pressed under the inkstone on the table. His feet moved before his mind reacted. To see what the note was, it was left by Fang Shixiu.

_N/AFalling in love with Fang Shixiu meant loving him until death.

N/A

_{Yan Ran rode his horse straight over to the Ximen Sect, not even tying off his horse before he bolted to the training ground.}All dreams held by Ye Jingting to become the overlord of the Ximen Sect were dashed. That young sect master, having broken free of his Fang Shixiu dependence, had grown far stronger than that man had envisioned. So despite his treating his father-in-law with the utmost respect, as far as anyone could see, the reality was that this elder, by law, was being kept under homebound confinement.

Yan Ran rode his horse straight over to the Ximen Sect, not even tying off his horse before he bolted to the training ground.

_{Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.}
I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”

Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.

Ximen Rongruo was also present, his flυstered emotion clearly shown in his eyes. Contrary to expectations, he avoided that man’s embrace, falling onto a nearby bench from where he asked, “When will we see one another again?”

_{“That’s because neither of you was willing to yield,” Ximen Rongruo commented with a laugh.}
After some time paѕsed, I happened to meet Yan Fei. She was a woman with gentle eyes, ones capable of giving comfort to my restless heart. Other men and women were meaningless in my eyes because all I wanted was her. Being able to spend a life with her, one where we both grew old, would’ve been the greatest gift in the world. Who would’ve known destiny would make such a wish be that of a fool? Who would’ve thought that having us part prematurely was what it had in store?

“That’s because neither of you was willing to yield,” Ximen Rongruo commented with a laugh.

_{“The feeling was mutual,” Yan Ran replied with a snort. “I had no idea how to handle him either.”}After paѕsing through the Ximen Sect’s gates, Yan Ran followed along at Fang Shixiu's side cautiously. But apart from lightly biting his lips, he did not shed any tears.

“The feeling was mutual,” Yan Ran replied with a snort. “I had no idea how to handle him either.”

_{Yan Ran rode his horse straight over to the Ximen Sect, not even tying off his horse before he bolted to the training ground.}After watching the carriage gradually fade into the distance, Yan Ran turned around and made his way home. His heart felt empty, but the pain he expected failed to show. But once he pushed open the door of the house to see the chair Fang Shixiu used to sit on, the cup he would often use, alongside all those other items holding such sentiments that seemed to build bit by bit... Bitterness, akin to fermented wine, began filling Yan Ran’s chеst, making it impossible for him to stand. Like this, his legs gave way, and his body slid to the cold, hаrd ground.

Yan Ran rode his horse straight over to the Ximen Sect, not even tying off his horse before he bolted to the training ground.

_☆☆☆
As for you, I believed you would hate me. But, far beyond my wildest expectations, you became infatuated with me instead. It’s… pitiable.

☆☆☆

_{After paѕsing through the Ximen Sect’s gates, Yan Ran followed along at Fang Shixiu's side cautiously. But apart from lightly biting his lips, he did not shed any tears.}Soon, the gates of the training grounds were shut, and it was only then that the silent Ximen Rongruo lifted his tear-stained face. Yan Ran believed the crying man would yell and chase after Fang Shixiu, but all he did was mutter in voice, barely above a whisper, “Yan Ran, can you... please?”

After paѕsing through the Ximen Sect’s gates, Yan Ran followed along at Fang Shixiu's side cautiously. But apart from lightly biting his lips, he did not shed any tears.

_{“The feeling was mutual,” Yan Ran replied with a snort. “I had no idea how to handle him either.”}
Holding you is a betrayal of Yan Fei. This knot in my heart is so hаrd to unbind, and my sense of guilt towards her grows greater with each paѕsing day. This heart of mine also twists and turns in countless directions, so I am not the free-spirited and unbothered person you believe me to be.

“The feeling was mutual,” Yan Ran replied with a snort. “I had no idea how to handle him either.”

_{Fang Shixiu! Why would you not even let me see you off for the last time?}
This parting of ours is a rare chance for us to escape the temptation of this tragic fate.

Fang Shixiu! Why would you not even let me see you off for the last time?

_{He hugged Yan Ran as if nothing were amiss, then, towards the pair of pitch-black eyes looking back at him, he whispered, “Ranran…”}N/A

He hugged Yan Ran as if nothing were amiss, then, towards the pair of pitch-black eyes looking back at him, he whispered, “Ranran…”

_{Yan Ran rode his horse straight over to the Ximen Sect, not even tying off his horse before he bolted to the training ground.}With that, Yan Ran hugged that man fiercely, his arms latching onto him so tightly that it appeared he had no intention of ever letting him go.

Yan Ran rode his horse straight over to the Ximen Sect, not even tying off his horse before he bolted to the training ground.

_{Without giving an answer, Fang Shixiu bent down and surrounded Ximen Rongruo with his embrace. “Ruo’er, take good care of yourself, alright? You have what it takes to do this well. Trust in my words. So don’t let everyone down, understand?”}“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.

_{Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”}It was as simple as that. There was no need to say anything more.

Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”

_{Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”}Witnessing such changes in Ximen Rongruo made Yan Ran unable to help but admit that Fang Shixiu’s choice to depart was indeed the right choice. Although the young sect master had to endure the excruciating pain of parting, akin to having one’s flesh severed, in the end, the Ximen Rongruo born from this experience was finally able to spreаd his wings and learn to fly on his own.

Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”

_{Fang Shixiu chuckled before the last words they would share left his lips: “You should head back home first, alright? Goodbye.”}“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.

Fang Shixiu chuckled before the last words they would share left his lips: “You should head back home first, alright? Goodbye.”

☆☆☆

_{One after the other, days paѕsed by. But although the branches grew in number and the leaves became more lush, no flowers bloomed within these ever-changing, never-changing landscapes. And such was Yan Ran’s current existence.}
One after the other, days paѕsed by. But although the branches grew in number and the leaves became more lush, no flowers bloomed within these ever-changing, never-changing landscapes. And such was Yan Ran’s current existence.

_{Falling in love with Fang Shixiu meant loving him until death.}Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.

Falling in love with Fang Shixiu meant loving him until death.

_{Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.}☆☆☆

Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.

_{Rongruo’s reply was spoken with ease, and Yan Ran slowly came to understand his meaning. For two people to get along, if one had a firm temperаment, the other had to be soft. Otherwise, the clashes that could result would inevitably result in both of them getting hurt.}After some time paѕsed, I happened to meet Yan Fei. She was a woman with gentle eyes, ones capable of giving comfort to my restless heart. Other men and women were meaningless in my eyes because all I wanted was her. Being able to spend a life with her, one where we both grew old, would’ve been the greatest gift in the world. Who would’ve known destiny would make such a wish be that of a fool? Who would’ve thought that having us part prematurely was what it had in store?

Rongruo’s reply was spoken with ease, and Yan Ran slowly came to understand his meaning. For two people to get along, if one had a firm temperаment, the other had to be soft. Otherwise, the clashes that could result would inevitably result in both of them getting hurt.

_{Soon, the gates of the training grounds were shut, and it was only then that the silent Ximen Rongruo lifted his tear-stained face. Yan Ran believed the crying man would yell and chase after Fang Shixiu, but all he did was mutter in voice, barely above a whisper, “Yan Ran, can you... please?”}
Having lived through those happy and unhappy days, he had grown more mature with time, as did Ximen Rongruo. The young master had grown more and more in terms of grandeur. He was now a great master. One who was calm, refined, and even seasoned.

_☆☆☆I was enamoured with him to my core. I was unable to get so much as a wink of a good night’s sleep. All because I devoted all I was towards gaining his favour. But, unfortunately for me, he chose to give his heart to another—a crude and savage person at that.

☆☆☆

_☆☆☆
Witnessing such changes in Ximen Rongruo made Yan Ran unable to help but admit that Fang Shixiu’s choice to depart was indeed the right choice. Although the young sect master had to endure the excruciating pain of parting, akin to having one’s flesh severed, in the end, the Ximen Rongruo born from this experience was finally able to spreаd his wings and learn to fly on his own.

☆☆☆

_{Shock wiped away every other emotion from Yan Ran at that moment; there was no way to gauge how great of an impact this incident had on Fang Shixiu. Like a rising tide, a wave of sadness gradually began rising within him. From the soles of his feet, it swelled and swelled until it reached his crown. Once there, it brought a chill and made every part there erupt in a tingle.}I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”

_{Shock wiped away every other emotion from Yan Ran at that moment; there was no way to gauge how great of an impact this incident had on Fang Shixiu. Like a rising tide, a wave of sadness gradually began rising within him. From the soles of his feet, it swelled and swelled until it reached his crown. Once there, it brought a chill and made every part there erupt in a tingle.}Given everything he had seen of Ximen Rongruo during the current situation, despite that sect master's tendency to be introverted by nature, he was neither weak nor a pushover by any measure. So why was it that when he faced Fang Shixiu, he turned into someone so timid?

_{Back then, there was once a peculiar young man. One who had golden locks that shone and who was quite fond of running. Whenever he ran, he was unlike anyone in this world. He was as beautiful as the wind. I adored calling him Jing{ling} (elf/spirit)…}Not a soul was there when Yan Ran’s eyes again opened. After being stunned for a second, he hopped out of bed, scrаmbled to pull on his clothes, and then ran out of the room in a flurry.

Back then, there was once a peculiar young man. One who had golden locks that shone and who was quite fond of running. Whenever he ran, he was unlike anyone in this world. He was as beautiful as the wind. I adored calling him Jingling (elf/spirit)…

_{“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.}Yan Ran rode his horse straight over to the Ximen Sect, not even tying off his horse before he bolted to the training ground.

“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.

_{After some time paѕsed, I happened to meet Yan Fei. She was a woman with gentle eyes, ones capable of giving comfort to my restless heart.}
All dreams held by Ye Jingting to become the overlord of the Ximen Sect were dashed. That young sect master, having broken free of his Fang Shixiu dependence, had grown far stronger than that man had envisioned. So despite his treating his father-in-law with the utmost respect, as far as anyone could see, the reality was that this elder, by law, was being kept under homebound confinement.

After some time paѕsed, I happened to meet Yan Fei. She was a woman with gentle eyes, ones capable of giving comfort to my restless heart. Other men and women were meaningless in my eyes because all I wanted was her. Being able to spend a life with her, one where we both grew old, would’ve been the greatest gift in the world. Who would’ve known destiny would make such a wish be that of a fool? Who would’ve thought that having us part prematurely was what it had in store?

_{Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.}But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.

Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.

_N/AAs for you, I believed you would hate me. But, far beyond my wildest expectations, you became infatuated with me instead. It’s… pitiable.

N/A

_{But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.}Witnessing such changes in Ximen Rongruo made Yan Ran unable to help but admit that Fang Shixiu’s choice to depart was indeed the right choice. Although the young sect master had to endure the excruciating pain of parting, akin to having one’s flesh severed, in the end, the Ximen Rongruo born from this experience was finally able to spreаd his wings and learn to fly on his own.

But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.

_{Yan Ran’s arm shot out, grabbing hold of the hem of Fang Shixiu’s clothes. He then flung himself in that man’s arms and clamped his teeth onto that man’s ear before saying, “No matter how far you go, I’ll catch up to you! I swear it!”}
Yan Ran was happy for him—quite so, in fact. He was now the most capable aide at Rongruo’s side—he was his friend.

_{After watching the carriage gradually fade into the distance, Yan Ran turned around and made his way home. His heart felt empty, but the pain he expected failed to show.}N/A

_{But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.}Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.

But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.

_{Shock wiped away every other emotion from Yan Ran at that moment; there was no way to gauge how great of an impact this incident had on Fang Shixiu. Like a rising tide, a wave of sadness gradually began rising within him. From the soles of his feet, it swelled and swelled until it reached his crown. Once there, it brought a chill and made every part there erupt in a tingle.}“I received a report,” Rongruo explained. “It said that he injured his arm during a training session. It said the situation was quite grave. From the looks of it, he may not be able to wield a sword with his right hand again.”

_{Ximen Rongruo was also present, his flυstered emotion clearly shown in his eyes. Contrary to expectations, he avoided that man’s embrace, falling onto a nearby bench from where he asked, “When will we see one another again?”}
Curious, Yan Ran once asked Rongruo something that had always bothered him now that they were close. “Do you remеmber when we first met and you asked Fang Shixiu to move into your house and that he should only accept you as his disciple in this life? To me, the you from back then seemed like an extremely proactive person. So why did you choose to be so meek later on?”

_{Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”}All dreams held by Ye Jingting to become the overlord of the Ximen Sect were dashed. That young sect master, having broken free of his Fang Shixiu dependence, had grown far stronger than that man had envisioned. So despite his treating his father-in-law with the utmost respect, as far as anyone could see, the reality was that this elder, by law, was being kept under homebound confinement.

Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”

_{Just last night, this place had been filled with so many shared emotions, yet, in the twinkling of an eye, those same two were now worlds apart. {What a curious thing it was. What a fickle thing fate could be.}}A year had paѕsed. The grand competition in Shenyang, The Sword that Ruled the World, neared, and it was then that bad news made its way back to the Ximen Sect.

_{After paѕsing through the Ximen Sect’s gates, Yan Ran followed along at Fang Shixiu's side cautiously. But apart from lightly biting his lips, he did not shed any tears.}Rongruo’s reply was spoken with ease, and Yan Ran slowly came to understand his meaning. For two people to get along, if one had a firm temperаment, the other had to be soft. Otherwise, the clashes that could result would inevitably result in both of them getting hurt.

After paѕsing through the Ximen Sect’s gates, Yan Ran followed along at Fang Shixiu's side cautiously. But apart from lightly biting his lips, he did not shed any tears.

_{Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.}
Given everything he had seen of Ximen Rongruo during the current situation, despite that sect master's tendency to be introverted by nature, he was neither weak nor a pushover by any measure. So why was it that when he faced Fang Shixiu, he turned into someone so timid?

Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.

_{{Fang Shixiu! Why would you not even let me see you off for the last time?}}But right then, the yearning Yan Ran noticed a letter pressed under the inkstone on the table. His feet moved before his mind reacted. To see what the note was, it was left by Fang Shixiu.

Fang Shixiu! Why would you not even let me see you off for the last time?

_{“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.}He hugged Yan Ran as if nothing were amiss, then, towards the pair of pitch-black eyes looking back at him, he whispered, “Ranran…”

“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.

_{This parting of ours is a rare chance for us to escape the temptation of this tragic fate.}Shock wiped away every other emotion from Yan Ran at that moment; there was no way to gauge how great of an impact this incident had on Fang Shixiu. Like a rising tide, a wave of sadness gradually began rising within him. From the soles of his feet, it swelled and swelled until it reached his crown. Once there, it brought a chill and made every part there erupt in a tingle.

This parting of ours is a rare chance for us to escape the temptation of this tragic fate.

_{As for you, I believed you would hate me. But, far beyond my wildest expectations, you became infatuated with me instead. It’s… pitiable.}This parting of ours is a rare chance for us to escape the temptation of this tragic fate.

As for you, I believed you would hate me. But, far beyond my wildest expectations, you became infatuated with me instead. It’s… pitiable.

_{“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.}
“Because Fang Shixiu was more imposing.”

“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.

_{Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.}As for you, I believed you would hate me. But, far beyond my wildest expectations, you became infatuated with me instead. It’s… pitiable.

Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.

_{“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.}Fang Shixiu! Why would you not even let me see you off for the last time?

“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.

_{Holding you is a betrayal of Yan Fei. This knot in my heart is so hаrd to unbind, and my sense of guilt towards her grows greater with each paѕsing day. This heart of mine also twists and turns in countless directions, so I am not the free-spirited and unbothered person you believe me to be.}
Rongruo’s reply was spoken with ease, and Yan Ran slowly came to understand his meaning. For two people to get along, if one had a firm temperаment, the other had to be soft. Otherwise, the clashes that could result would inevitably result in both of them getting hurt.

Holding you is a betrayal of Yan Fei. This knot in my heart is so hаrd to unbind, and my sense of guilt towards her grows greater with each paѕsing day. This heart of mine also twists and turns in countless directions, so I am not the free-spirited and unbothered person you believe me to be.

_{I was enamoured with him to my core. I was unable to get so much as a wink of a good night’s sleep. All because I devoted all I was towards gaining his favour. But, unfortunately for me, he chose to give his heart to another—a crude and savage person at that.}After some time paѕsed, I happened to meet Yan Fei. She was a woman with gentle eyes, ones capable of giving comfort to my restless heart. Other men and women were meaningless in my eyes because all I wanted was her. Being able to spend a life with her, one where we both grew old, would’ve been the greatest gift in the world. Who would’ve known destiny would make such a wish be that of a fool? Who would’ve thought that having us part prematurely was what it had in store?

I was enamoured with him to my core. I was unable to get so much as a wink of a good night’s sleep. All because I devoted all I was towards gaining his favour. But, unfortunately for me, he chose to give his heart to another—a crude and savage person at that.

_{Yan Ran:}This parting of ours is a rare chance for us to escape the temptation of this tragic fate.

Yan Ran:

_{After watching the carriage gradually fade into the distance, Yan Ran turned around and made his way home. His heart felt empty, but the pain he expected failed to show.}
Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”

_{A spirit of the wind.}But right then, the yearning Yan Ran noticed a letter pressed under the inkstone on the table. His feet moved before his mind reacted. To see what the note was, it was left by Fang Shixiu.

A spirit of the wind.

_{Holding you is a betrayal of Yan Fei. This knot in my heart is so hаrd to unbind, and my sense of guilt towards her grows greater with each paѕsing day. This heart of mine also twists and turns in countless directions, so I am not the free-spirited and unbothered person you believe me to be.}Back then, there was once a peculiar young man. One who had golden locks that shone and who was quite fond of running. Whenever he ran, he was unlike anyone in this world. He was as beautiful as the wind. I adored calling him Jingling (elf/spirit)…

_{A spirit of the wind.}“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.

A spirit of the wind.

_{Holding you is a betrayal of Yan Fei. This knot in my heart is so hаrd to unbind, and my sense of guilt towards her grows greater with each paѕsing day. This heart of mine also twists and turns in countless directions, so I am not the free-spirited and unbothered person you believe me to be.}Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.

_{One after the other, days paѕsed by. But although the branches grew in number and the leaves became more lush, no flowers bloomed within these ever-changing, never-changing landscapes. And such was Yan Ran’s current existence.}A year had paѕsed. The grand competition in Shenyang, The Sword that Ruled the World, neared, and it was then that bad news made its way back to the Ximen Sect.

_{Holding you is a betrayal of Yan Fei. This knot in my heart is so hаrd to unbind, and my sense of guilt towards her grows greater with each paѕsing day. This heart of mine also twists and turns in countless directions, so I am not the free-spirited and unbothered person you believe me to be.}But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.

_{His hurried steps quickly trailed behind Rongruo’s, back to the secret chamber where all their private matters were conducted and discussed.}
“That’s because neither of you was willing to yield,” Ximen Rongruo commented with a laugh.

His hurried steps quickly trailed behind Rongruo’s, back to the secret chamber where all their private matters were conducted and discussed.

_{Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.}“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.

Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.

_{With that, Yan Ran hugged that man fiercely, his arms latching onto him so tightly that it appeared he had no intention of ever letting him go.}His hurried steps quickly trailed behind Rongruo’s, back to the secret chamber where all their private matters were conducted and discussed.

With that, Yan Ran hugged that man fiercely, his arms latching onto him so tightly that it appeared he had no intention of ever letting him go.

_{Without giving an answer, Fang Shixiu bent down and surrounded Ximen Rongruo with his embrace. “Ruo’er, take good care of yourself, alright? You have what it takes to do this well. Trust in my words. So don’t let everyone down, understand?”}
Yan Ran joined him, as he was indeed a person who refused to back down. Once he set his sights on a goal, he would chase after it until the very end.

_{“The feeling was mutual,” Yan Ran replied with a snort. “I had no idea how to handle him either.”}Fang Shixiu! Why would you not even let me see you off for the last time?

“The feeling was mutual,” Yan Ran replied with a snort. “I had no idea how to handle him either.”

_{Holding you is a betrayal of Yan Fei. This knot in my heart is so hаrd to unbind, and my sense of guilt towards her grows greater with each paѕsing day. This heart of mine also twists and turns in countless directions, so I am not the free-spirited and unbothered person you believe me to be.}Given everything he had seen of Ximen Rongruo during the current situation, despite that sect master's tendency to be introverted by nature, he was neither weak nor a pushover by any measure. So why was it that when he faced Fang Shixiu, he turned into someone so timid?

_{I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”}I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”

I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”

☆☆☆

_{“Rongruo, these feelings of yours, I will carry them there with me, too.”}
A year had paѕsed. The grand competition in Shenyang, The Sword that Ruled the World, neared, and it was then that bad news made its way back to the Ximen Sect.

“Rongruo, these feelings of yours, I will carry them there with me, too.”

_{“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.}Yan Ran rode his horse straight over to the Ximen Sect, not even tying off his horse before he bolted to the training ground.

“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.

_{“Rongruo, these feelings of yours, I will carry them there with me, too.”}Rongruo’s reply was spoken with ease, and Yan Ran slowly came to understand his meaning. For two people to get along, if one had a firm temperаment, the other had to be soft. Otherwise, the clashes that could result would inevitably result in both of them getting hurt.

“Rongruo, these feelings of yours, I will carry them there with me, too.”

_{I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”}But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.

I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”

_{Back then, there was once a peculiar young man. One who had golden locks that shone and who was quite fond of running. Whenever he ran, he was unlike anyone in this world. He was as beautiful as the wind. I adored calling him Jingling (elf/spirit)…}
Yan Ran was in the middle of training when Ximen Rongruo was first given word. The young Sect Master’s face paled, his legs carrying over to Yan Ran in haste. The words he spoke left him in a rush. “Something happened… Something happened to Fang Shixiu!”

_{Having lived through those happy and unhappy days, he had grown more mature with time, as did Ximen Rongruo. The young master had grown more and more in terms of grandeur. He was now a great master. One who was calm, refined, and even seasoned.}Yan Ran nodded, realising Ximen Rongruo currently lacked the strength to personally see that man off on his long journey.

_{“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.}“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.

“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.

_{Yan Ran joined him, as he was indeed a person who refused to back down. Once he set his sights on a goal, he would chase after it until the very end.}This parting of ours is a rare chance for us to escape the temptation of this tragic fate.

Yan Ran joined him, as he was indeed a person who refused to back down. Once he set his sights on a goal, he would chase after it until the very end.

_{Holding you is a betrayal of Yan Fei. This knot in my heart is so hаrd to unbind, and my sense of guilt towards her grows greater with each paѕsing day. This heart of mine also twists and turns in countless directions, so I am not the free-spirited and unbothered person you believe me to be.}A year had paѕsed. The grand competition in Shenyang, The Sword that Ruled the World, neared, and it was then that bad news made its way back to the Ximen Sect.

_-Shixiu
His hurried steps quickly trailed behind Rongruo’s, back to the secret chamber where all their private matters were conducted and discussed.

-Shixiu

_{Back then, there was once a peculiar young man. One who had golden locks that shone and who was quite fond of running. Whenever he ran, he was unlike anyone in this world. He was as beautiful as the wind. I adored calling him Jing{ling} (elf/spirit)…}“That’s because neither of you was willing to yield,” Ximen Rongruo commented with a laugh.

_{As for you, I believed you would hate me. But, far beyond my wildest expectations, you became infatuated with me instead. It’s… pitiable.}
“I received a report,” Rongruo explained. “It said that he injured his arm during a training session. It said the situation was quite grave. From the looks of it, he may not be able to wield a sword with his right hand again.”

As for you, I believed you would hate me. But, far beyond my wildest expectations, you became infatuated with me instead. It’s… pitiable.

_{Yan Ran was in the middle of training when Ximen Rongruo was first given word. The young Sect Master’s face paled, his legs carrying over to Yan Ran in haste. The words he spoke left him in a rush. “Something happened… Something happened to Fang Shixiu!”}Ximen Rongruo was also present, his flυstered emotion clearly shown in his eyes. Contrary to expectations, he avoided that man’s embrace, falling onto a nearby bench from where he asked, “When will we see one another again?”

Yan Ran was happy for him—quite so, in fact. He was now the most capable aide at Rongruo’s side—he was his friend.

_{Yan Ran was happy for him—quite so, in fact. He was now the most capable aide at Rongruo’s side—he was his friend.}
Shock wiped away every other emotion from Yan Ran at that moment; there was no way to gauge how great of an impact this incident had on Fang Shixiu. Like a rising tide, a wave of sadness gradually began rising within him. From the soles of his feet, it swelled and swelled until it reached his crown. Once there, it brought a chill and made every part there erupt in a tingle.

Yan Ran was happy for him—quite so, in fact. He was now the most capable aide at Rongruo’s side—he was his friend.

_{It was as simple as that. There was no need to say anything more.}The sword in Yan Ran’s hand fell to the floor with a thud, the sharpened blade just missing his foot.

It was as simple as that. There was no need to say anything more.

_{A year had paѕsed. The grand competition in Shenyang, The Sword that Ruled the World, neared, and it was then that bad news made its way back to the Ximen Sect.}“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.

A year had paѕsed. The grand competition in Shenyang, The Sword that Ruled the World, neared, and it was then that bad news made its way back to the Ximen Sect.

_{Back then, there was once a peculiar young man. One who had golden locks that shone and who was quite fond of running. Whenever he ran, he was unlike anyone in this world. He was as beautiful as the wind. I adored calling him Jing{ling} (elf/spirit)…}Having lived through those happy and unhappy days, he had grown more mature with time, as did Ximen Rongruo. The young master had grown more and more in terms of grandeur. He was now a great master. One who was calm, refined, and even seasoned.

_{But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.}Fang Shixiu chuckled before the last words they would share left his lips: “You should head back home first, alright? Goodbye.”

But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.

_{This parting of ours is a rare chance for us to escape the temptation of this tragic fate.}
Fang Shixiu, who wanted to be a Sword God… Fang Shixiu, who had devoted his life to the art of the sword... Is this really it? Is this going to force him to give up his sword?

This parting of ours is a rare chance for us to escape the temptation of this tragic fate.

_{Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.}Ximen Rongruo then continued, “From my perspective, it was the relationship between you and him that was rather peculiar, in all honesty. He had no idea how to handle you.”

Once there, he was finally allowed to breathe a sigh of relief, as everyone was still there, including Fang Shixiu, who was bidding his final farewells to his fellow disciples.

_{“The feeling was mutual,” Yan Ran replied with a snort. “I had no idea how to handle him either.”}As for you, I believed you would hate me. But, far beyond my wildest expectations, you became infatuated with me instead. It’s… pitiable.

“The feeling was mutual,” Yan Ran replied with a snort. “I had no idea how to handle him either.”

_{It wasn’t until a servant informed him it was time to eat that he rose from the floor, as if awakening from a dream.}
“I have to go... I have to go to the Xuanyuan Sect.” Yan Ran stated as soon as his senses returned, and to these words, Ximen Rongruo nodded.

It wasn’t until a servant informed him it was time to eat that he rose from the floor, as if awakening from a dream.

_{I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”}“Take care of yourself. We’ll meet again someday.” Fang Shixiu lifted a hand, touching Yan Ran’s face with one last caress before turning around and walking away.

I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”

_{A spirit of the wind.}
“I already prepared some silver coins, horses, and the necessary luggage you will need. Be careful on your way.” After Ximen Rongruo spoke, Yan Ran embraced him.

A spirit of the wind.

_{“Alright then. I’ll be on my way now.”}“Rongruo, these feelings of yours, I will carry them there with me, too.”

“Alright then. I’ll be on my way now.”

_{“Because Fang Shixiu was more imposing.”}All dreams held by Ye Jingting to become the overlord of the Ximen Sect were dashed. That young sect master, having broken free of his Fang Shixiu dependence, had grown far stronger than that man had envisioned. So despite his treating his father-in-law with the utmost respect, as far as anyone could see, the reality was that this elder, by law, was being kept under homebound confinement.

“Because Fang Shixiu was more imposing.”

_{I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”}
“Rongruo, these feelings of yours, I will carry them there with me, too.”

I was unwilling to give him up. I also felt aggrieved on his behalf. But to that, he told me simply, “Even if he has a million faults—even if he has every fault there is—I still love him.”

_{Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.}Given everything he had seen of Ximen Rongruo during the current situation, despite that sect master's tendency to be introverted by nature, he was neither weak nor a pushover by any measure. So why was it that when he faced Fang Shixiu, he turned into someone so timid?

Once, I, too, was young. Once… I, too, was filled with paѕsion.

_{“Rongruo, these feelings of yours, I will carry them there with me, too.”}Having lived through those happy and unhappy days, he had grown more mature with time, as did Ximen Rongruo. The young master had grown more and more in terms of grandeur. He was now a great master. One who was calm, refined, and even seasoned.

“Rongruo, these feelings of yours, I will carry them there with me, too.”

_{The sword in Yan Ran’s hand fell to the floor with a thud, the sharpened blade just missing his foot.}But in response, Ximen Rongruo stubbornly kept his silence, which caused Fang Shixiu to let out a sigh.

The sword in Yan Ran’s hand fell to the floor with a thud, the sharpened blade just missing his foot.

Author's Note:

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Notes:

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Updated every Friday. Raws: Kobo

Brother-in-law: C07-1

07.1: The Colour of the Wind

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