Adoptive Father: C01-2

Chapter 1.2: Han Xiling

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

_{“What?” Aunty Wu’s eyes widened before she broke out in a laugh. “No, of course not. The master may have a temper, but he never lays a hand on a person for no good reason.”}
There is imagination, and then there is reality—which is disappointing more times than not.

“What?” Aunty Wu’s eyes widened before she broke out in a laugh. “No, of course not. The master may have a temper, but he never lays a hand on a person for no good reason.”

_{“Father, please have some tea.”}Han Xiling was embarrassed by the act, his flυstered self unknowing of what to do.

“Father, please have some tea.”

_{{Headmaster, Headmistress, had I known this was the fate awaiting me, I would’ve never left the academy. I’d rather stay there and be whipped than get adopted into such a house run by a lunatic! Sobs…}}Han Jiangxue finally opened his eyes and took the cup presented to him. But before Han Xiling could fully exhale a sigh of relief, the cup just taken was thrown to the floor, where it shattered. It was such a shock that he almost leapt out of his skin.

Headmaster, Headmistress, had I known this was the fate awaiting me, I would’ve never left the academy. I’d rather stay there and be whipped than get adopted into such a house run by a lunatic! Sobs…

_{“Oh my, don’t cry. Please don’t cry.” Aunty Wu wiped away her newest young master’s tears as she coaxed. “The master hates seeing others cry the most. In fact, it is another taboo of this house that you must also remember, yes?”}“Oh, that’s great, then.” Han Xiling nodded and left after getting an answer, his expression pleased.

“Oh my, don’t cry. Please don’t cry.” Aunty Wu wiped away her newest young master’s tears as she coaxed. “The master hates seeing others cry the most. In fact, it is another taboo of this house that you must also remember, yes?”

_{If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.}“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”

If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

_{Ham Xiling poured tea into one of those pretty cups and presented it to his adoptive father with both hands. “Your tea.”}
Han Jingxue had made his way to the orphanage on a single horse, so it was only natural that Han Xiling would ride this one horse with him on the journey from the east to the west.

Ham Xiling poured tea into one of those pretty cups and presented it to his adoptive father with both hands. “Your tea.”

_{“How should you address me?” Han Jiangxue asked with eyes still closed, but Han Xiling hesitated for a while, not quite knowing how to voice the word “father.”}“Here, I’ve brewed another batch of tea, so please take it to the master. Be careful on your way. This tea is quite precious, so no more of it can be wasted, alright?”

“How should you address me?” Han Jiangxue asked with eyes still closed, but Han Xiling hesitated for a while, not quite knowing how to voice the word “father.”

_{On an eight immortals table, a set of teacups and a teapot were prearranged. Han Xiling placed his hand on the teapot, still infused with heat. Under the assumption it was left there by Aunty Wu, he picked up the pot and poured out some tea.}
It was Han Xiling’s first time truly entering the western city due to the strict hierarchical system his country enforced. As it was, any child from the eastern region who dared enter the west without authorisation would be arrested and beaten. No one would so much as at an eye if they also ended up dead.

On an eight immortals table, a set of teacups and a teapot were prearranged. Han Xiling placed his hand on the teapot, still infused with heat. Under the assumption it was left there by Aunty Wu, he picked up the pot and poured out some tea.

Like this, Aunty Wu carefully taught Han Xiling the art of making tea. It took most of the day before they were finished, and Han Xiling again returned to the hall carrying that teapot in his hands.

_{“Greetings, young master (shao zhu)!” It was now time for the old couple to bow and give Han Xiling their greetings.}While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

“Greetings, young master (shao zhu)!” It was now time for the old couple to bow and give Han Xiling their greetings.

_{“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”}Han Jiangxue finally opened his eyes and took the cup presented to him. But before Han Xiling could fully exhale a sigh of relief, the cup just taken was thrown to the floor, where it shattered. It was such a shock that he almost leapt out of his skin.

“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”

_N/AHan Jingxue had made his way to the orphanage on a single horse, so it was only natural that Han Xiling would ride this one horse with him on the journey from the east to the west.

N/A

_{Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.}
Everything in the western city was a world apart from the east. The houses were all a sight of splendour. The roads were paved with bricks of slate. As the hooves of horses trotted across these carefully laid azure stones, the sound echoing beneath was clear and crisp. It was nothing like the roads in the east region that were simply flattened earth.

Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.

_{“And your tea was rather unpleasant to drink, so practice properly from now on.”}“Understood…”

“And your tea was rather unpleasant to drink, so practice properly from now on.”

“Goodness… it seems the master’s complex has indeed reared its head again.” The old woman caressed Han Xiling’s head. “Do not be sad, young master. Master doesn’t mean anything by it. Master just has a habit of toying with others when he has nothing else to do. So please do not take it to heart.”

“You’re their young master (shao zhu). From this day onwards, they will serve you. Where have you ever seen a master that bows to their servants?!” Han Jiangxue shot Han Xiling with a harsh glare.

“Mn.” Han Xiling hummed before setting off towards the kitchen door with the hot teapot in hand. But before he left, he turned back to ask in a whisper, “Aunty Wu, he doesn’t beat people, does he?”

_{“Go wash up.”}
The mere act of traversing upon such a path was enough to make one’s heart feel cleansed.

“Go wash up.”

_{“Father, your tea.”}After replying, Uncle Wu walked away with Han Xiling’s vacant stare trailing him. Han Xiling then turned his eyes to peek at Han Jiangxue. It was only then that he realised the impression he had of that man beside him was a gross misinterpretation. Han Jiangxue wasn’t some guy who loved to smile and laugh—he was a nitpicky lunatic!

“Father, your tea.”

_{He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.}“How should you address me?” Han Jiangxue asked with eyes still closed, but Han Xiling hesitated for a while, not quite knowing how to voice the word “father.”

He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.

_{“Oh, alright.” Han Xiling replied in a murmur. {That guy really is a pain to serve.}}“Yes, master.”

“Oh, alright.” Han Xiling replied in a murmur. That guy really is a pain to serve.

_{“Understood…”}
With such things further adding to his imaginings, Han Xiling never expected Han Jingxue’s home to be as it was. A small courtyard with no towering pavilions; no rockeries with flowing water nor a back garden in sight; just a small mansion with two pomegranate trees planted at its front and not a thing else.

“Understood…”

_{“Nothing,” Han Xiling slapped on a nervous grin, “I was saying that the house is really beautiful.”}
A bevy of menservants and maidservants rushing out to greet them was another expectation held by Han Xiling. But instead, only two persons had come out to greet them—an elderly man and woman.

“Nothing,” Han Xiling slapped on a nervous grin, “I was saying that the house is really beautiful.”

_{While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”}“Go wash up.”

While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

_N/AHan Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.

N/A

_{“Oh, alright.” Han Xiling replied in a murmur. That guy really is a pain to serve.}
“These are Uncle and Aunty Wu. Uncle Wu is in charge of the tough manual chores, and Aunty Wu is in charge of the cooking and cleaning.” Even in his introductions, Han Jiangxue was curt.

“Oh, alright.” Han Xiling replied in a murmur. That guy really is a pain to serve.

_{“Greetings, young master (shao zhu)!” It was now time for the old couple to bow and give Han Xiling their greetings.}Han Xiling made his way to the back side of the house with the teapot in hand to find Aunty Wu.

“Greetings, young master (shao zhu)!” It was now time for the old couple to bow and give Han Xiling their greetings.

_{While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”}
“Hello, Uncle Wu. Hello, Aunty Wu.” Just as Han Xiling was about to bow to the old couple, Hang Jiangxue grabbed him by the collar and kicked him hаrd behind the knees.

While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

_{“Yes, master.”}“You’re their young master (shao zhu). From this day onwards, they will serve you. Where have you ever seen a master that bows to their servants?!” Han Jiangxue shot Han Xiling with a harsh glare.

“Yes, master.”

_{“Oh… um, hello.” Still very much embarrassed and possessing a heart still berating his chеst, Han Xiling still hadn’t adjusted to going from an orphan to a “young master.”}“How should I be addressed?”

“Oh… um, hello.” Still very much embarrassed and possessing a heart still berating his chеst, Han Xiling still hadn’t adjusted to going from an orphan to a “young master.”

_{From behind his departing back, a string of mocking laughter echoed, making him clench his fists so tіghtly they almost bled.}Note: 少主: shào zhǔ literally means young + master, while 小少爷: xiǎo shǎoye means the little young master of a house (the son [youngest] of a family). He has to be called little young master because, as a 20-year-old man, Han Jiangxue is also a young master (少爷), but for the sake of brevity and the lack of a father for Han Jiangxue present, he’s getting called master here.

From behind his departing back, a string of mocking laughter echoed, making him clench his fists so tіghtly they almost bled.

_{He told the old woman about what happened. She breathed out a sigh upon hearing about the shattered cup. Looking at Han Xiling, she then said sincerely, “Young master, from now on, whenever the master requests such tasks, please come ask me. Do you understand? The master has many rules, and if they are not followed, he will be furious.”}
“You’re their young master (shao zhu). From this day onwards, they will serve you. Where have you ever seen a master that bows to their servants?!” Han Jiangxue shot Han Xiling with a harsh glare.

He told the old woman about what happened. She breathed out a sigh upon hearing about the shattered cup. Looking at Han Xiling, she then said sincerely, “Young master, from now on, whenever the master requests such tasks, please come ask me. Do you understand? The master has many rules, and if they are not followed, he will be furious.”

_{While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”}After replying, Uncle Wu walked away with Han Xiling’s vacant stare trailing him. Han Xiling then turned his eyes to peek at Han Jiangxue. It was only then that he realised the impression he had of that man beside him was a gross misinterpretation. Han Jiangxue wasn’t some guy who loved to smile and laugh—he was a nitpicky lunatic!

While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

_{“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”}Headmaster, Headmistress, had I known this was the fate awaiting me, I would’ve never left the academy. I’d rather stay there and be whipped than get adopted into such a house run by a lunatic! Sobs…

“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”

_{It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.}“But…” Han Xiling stammered, “They’re elders!”

It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.

_{Ham Xiling poured tea into one of those pretty cups and presented it to his adoptive father with both hands. “{Your} tea.”}He told the old woman about what happened. She breathed out a sigh upon hearing about the shattered cup. Looking at Han Xiling, she then said sincerely, “Young master, from now on, whenever the master requests such tasks, please come ask me. Do you understand? The master has many rules, and if they are not followed, he will be furious.”

Ham Xiling poured tea into one of those pretty cups and presented it to his adoptive father with both hands. “Your tea.”

_{“Yes, master.”}N/A

“Yes, master.”

_{“Greetings, young master.”}
“Do not speak out of turn!”

“Greetings, young master.”

_{He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.}While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.

_{If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.}“How should you address me?” Han Jiangxue asked with eyes still closed, but Han Xiling hesitated for a while, not quite knowing how to voice the word “father.”

If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

_{While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”}“How should I be addressed?”

While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

_{Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.}“Be quick about it!”

Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.

_{Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.}
“Understood…”

Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.

“I am not.” Han Xiling forced out, barely managing to restrain his anger. I need to calm down. There’s nothing I can do. Since I’m dependent on this person I need to endure. I must.

_{Han Jiangxue took the cup and again took a drawn-out sip.}
“Greetings, young master (shao zhu)!” It was now time for the old couple to bow and give Han Xiling their greetings.

Han Jiangxue took the cup and again took a drawn-out sip.

_{Han Jiangxue took the cup served to him, the contents downed between his parted lips. But in that same instant, all of it was spat out and the cup was flung to the ground. The collision as it struck the marble floor was crisp; the sound it made as it shattered was loud.}“Mn.” Han Xiling hummed before setting off towards the kitchen door with the hot teapot in hand. But before he left, he turned back to ask in a whisper, “Aunty Wu, he doesn’t beat people, does he?”

Han Jiangxue took the cup served to him, the contents downed between his parted lips. But in that same instant, all of it was spat out and the cup was flung to the ground. The collision as it struck the marble floor was crisp; the sound it made as it shattered was loud.

_{Fortunately, no cup was flung after the tea was tasted. But after finishing the tea, Han Jiangxue placed the cup on the table and commented, “Did you cry? Look at your pitiful sight! You had the smallest bit of promise and thought that was enough to become a Sword Knight? If this is how you think, keep dreaming!” With a raised brow, he spat out those words with disdain.}Note: 少主: shào zhǔ literally means young + master, while 小少爷: xiǎo shǎoye means the little young master of a house (the son [youngest] of a family). He has to be called little young master because, as a 20-year-old man, Han Jiangxue is also a young master (少爷), but for the sake of brevity and the lack of a father for Han Jiangxue present, he’s getting called master here.

Fortunately, no cup was flung after the tea was tasted. But after finishing the tea, Han Jiangxue placed the cup on the table and commented, “Did you cry? Look at your pitiful sight! You had the smallest bit of promise and thought that was enough to become a Sword Knight? If this is how you think, keep dreaming!” With a raised brow, he spat out those words with disdain.

_{Han Jiangxue took the cup served to him, the contents downed between his parted lips. But in that same instant, all of it was spat out and the cup was flung to the ground. The collision as it struck the marble floor was crisp; the sound it made as it shattered was loud.}
Han Xiling was embarrassed by the act, his flυstered self unknowing of what to do.

_{“I only drink tea that is hot.”}While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

“I only drink tea that is hot.”

_{“You’re their young master (shao zhu). From this day onwards, they will serve you. Where have you ever seen a master that bows to their servants?!” Han Jiangxue shot Han Xiling with a harsh glare.}But before this moment of relief could be solidified, that third cup went flying, and that man barked out.

_{“But…” Han Xiling stammered, “They’re elders!”}“Do not speak out of turn!”

“But…” Han Xiling stammered, “They’re elders!”

_☆☆☆
“His name is Han Xiling. From now on, call him young master (xiao shaoye).”

☆☆☆

_{“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”}After replying, Uncle Wu walked away with Han Xiling’s vacant stare trailing him. Han Xiling then turned his eyes to peek at Han Jiangxue. It was only then that he realised the impression he had of that man beside him was a gross misinterpretation. Han Jiangxue wasn’t some guy who loved to smile and laugh—he was a nitpicky lunatic!

“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”

_{“And your tea was rather unpleasant to drink, so practice properly from now on.”}
“Greetings, young master.”

“And your tea was rather unpleasant to drink, so practice properly from now on.”

To this, Han Xiling could only sputter out an “Oh.” How was he supposed to know such a thing? He was a boy who spent his life fighting for a drink of water, so how would he ever have the fortune to learn the proper way of preparing tea?

_{He told the old woman about what happened. She breathed out a sigh upon hearing about the shattered cup. Looking at Han Xiling, she then said sincerely, “Young master, from now on, whenever the master requests such tasks, please come ask me. Do you understand? The master has many rules, and if they are not followed, he will be furious.”}Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.

_{Ham Xiling poured tea into one of those pretty cups and presented it to his adoptive father with both hands. “{Your} tea.”}Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.

Ham Xiling poured tea into one of those pretty cups and presented it to his adoptive father with both hands. “Your tea.”

_{Han Jiangxue finally opened his eyes and took the cup presented to him. But before Han Xiling could fully exhale a sigh of relief, the cup just taken was thrown to the floor, where it shattered. It was such a shock that he almost leapt out of his skin.}“Come on, now. I’ll teach you how to steep the tea. The first thing you must do is...”

Han Jiangxue finally opened his eyes and took the cup presented to him. But before Han Xiling could fully exhale a sigh of relief, the cup just taken was thrown to the floor, where it shattered. It was such a shock that he almost leapt out of his skin.

_{Everything in the western city was a world apart from the east. The houses were all a sight of splendour. The roads were paved with bricks of slate. As the hooves of horses trotted across these carefully laid azure stones, the sound echoing beneath was clear and crisp. It was nothing like the roads in the east region that were simply flattened earth.}
“Oh… um, hello.” Still very much embarrassed and possessing a heart still berating his chеst, Han Xiling still hadn’t adjusted to going from an orphan to a “young master.”

Everything in the western city was a world apart from the east. The houses were all a sight of splendour. The roads were paved with bricks of slate. As the hooves of horses trotted across these carefully laid azure stones, the sound echoing beneath was clear and crisp. It was nothing like the roads in the east region that were simply flattened earth.

_{“Greetings, young master.”}“Uh, alright…” Han Xiling responded timidly as he wondered whether he was an adopted son or just another servant.

“Greetings, young master.”

_{“I am not.” Han Xiling forced out, barely managing to restrain his anger. I need to calm down. There’s nothing I can do. Since I’m dependent on this person I need to endure. I must.}
Since early that morning, his chеst has bubbled with a surreal sensation, and now part of these lingering dreams has come true.

“I am not.” Han Xiling forced out, barely managing to restrain his anger. I need to calm down. There’s nothing I can do. Since I’m dependent on this person I need to endure. I must.

_{It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.}“Go wash up.”

It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.

_{“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.}☆☆☆

“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.

_{“I understand.”}
“Uncle Wu, go boil some water and fill a large tub. When that’s done, wash him well,” Han Jiangxue instructed with knitted brows frаming an expression of disgust.

“I understand.”

_{A bevy of menservants and maidservants rushing out to greet them was another expectation held by Han Xiling. But instead, only two persons had come out to greet them—an elderly man and woman.}But he spent no time lingering on such thoughts; after all, it was all the same to him. That person was a nobleman, and he was nothing but an orphan boy. For a person like him, being adopted was itself a great blessing, so how could he dare expect to also be pampered like a true son of a nobleman?

A bevy of menservants and maidservants rushing out to greet them was another expectation held by Han Xiling. But instead, only two persons had come out to greet them—an elderly man and woman.

_{“But…” Han Xiling stammered, “They’re elders!”}
“Yes, master.”

“But…” Han Xiling stammered, “They’re elders!”

_{Since early that morning, his chеst has bubbled with a surreal sensation, and now part of these lingering dreams has come true.}“Father, please have some tea.”

Since early that morning, his chеst has bubbled with a surreal sensation, and now part of these lingering dreams has come true.

_{If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.}
After replying, Uncle Wu walked away with Han Xiling’s vacant stare trailing him. Han Xiling then turned his eyes to peek at Han Jiangxue. It was only then that he realised the impression he had of that man beside him was a gross misinterpretation. Han Jiangxue wasn’t some guy who loved to smile and laugh—he was a nitpicky lunatic!

If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

_{“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.}It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.

“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.

_{Han Xiling was embarrassed by the act, his flυstered self unknowing of what to do.}
“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.

Han Xiling was embarrassed by the act, his flυstered self unknowing of what to do.

_{{Does having money mean you can waste it like this?! Goodness!}}“Greetings, young master.”

Does having money mean you can waste it like this?! Goodness!

_{“Oh… um, hello.” Still very much embarrassed and possessing a heart still berating his chеst, Han Xiling still hadn’t adjusted to going from an orphan to a “young master.”}From behind his departing back, a string of mocking laughter echoed, making him clench his fists so tіghtly they almost bled.

“Oh… um, hello.” Still very much embarrassed and possessing a heart still berating his chеst, Han Xiling still hadn’t adjusted to going from an orphan to a “young master.”

_{He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.}“I understand.”

He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.

_{Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.}It was Han Xiling’s first time truly entering the western city due to the strict hierarchical system his country enforced. As it was, any child from the eastern region who dared enter the west without authorisation would be arrested and beaten. No one would so much as at an eye if they also ended up dead.

Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.

_{From behind his departing back, a string of mocking laughter echoed, making him clench his fists so tіghtly they almost bled.}
“Nothing,” Han Xiling slapped on a nervous grin, “I was saying that the house is really beautiful.”

From behind his departing back, a string of mocking laughter echoed, making him clench his fists so tіghtly they almost bled.

_{He told the old woman about what happened. She breathed out a sigh upon hearing about the shattered cup. Looking at Han Xiling, she then said sincerely, “Young master, from now on, whenever the master requests such tasks, please come ask me. Do you understand? The master has many rules, and if they are not followed, he will be furious.”}If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

_{Chapter 1.2: Han Xiling}Neurotic, arrogant, conceited son-of-a-bitch! You self-important lunatic!

Chapter 1.2: Han Xiling

_{But before this moment of relief could be solidified, that third cup went flying, and that man barked out.}
“Aunty Wu, go prepare lunch... more than usual. I heard this kid is rather fond of eating.”

But before this moment of relief could be solidified, that third cup went flying, and that man barked out.

_{“Be quick about it!”}If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

“Be quick about it!”

_{With such things further adding to his imaginings, Han Xiling never expected Han Jingxue’s home to be as it was. A small courtyard with no towering pavilions; no rockeries with flowing water nor a back garden in sight; just a small mansion with two pomegranate trees planted at its front and not a thing else.}“I am not.” Han Xiling forced out, barely managing to restrain his anger. I need to calm down. There’s nothing I can do. Since I’m dependent on this person I need to endure. I must.

With such things further adding to his imaginings, Han Xiling never expected Han Jingxue’s home to be as it was. A small courtyard with no towering pavilions; no rockeries with flowing water nor a back garden in sight; just a small mansion with two pomegranate trees planted at its front and not a thing else.

_{“Go wash up.”}Han Xiling made his way to the back side of the house with the teapot in hand to find Aunty Wu.

“Go wash up.”

_{“Understood.” Again, Han Xiling left the hall with his head hanging and teapot in hand while muttering insults under his breath.}
“Yes, master.”

“Understood.” Again, Han Xiling left the hall with his head hanging and teapot in hand while muttering insults under his breath.

_{“Nothing,” Han Xiling slapped on a nervous grin, “I was saying that the house is really beautiful.”}“Understood.” Again, Han Xiling left the hall with his head hanging and teapot in hand while muttering insults under his breath.

“Nothing,” Han Xiling slapped on a nervous grin, “I was saying that the house is really beautiful.”

_{Han Xiling entered the hall once more, the teapot carried cautiously in his hands. Han Jiangxue was still seated in the grand seat, his eyes now closed in rest.}Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.

Han Xiling entered the hall once more, the teapot carried cautiously in his hands. Han Jiangxue was still seated in the grand seat, his eyes now closed in rest.

_{The man before him was remarkably young in appearance, seeming no more than three years his senior at most. {I am to call such a person father?}}“Understood.” Again, Han Xiling left the hall with his head hanging and teapot in hand while muttering insults under his breath.

The man before him was remarkably young in appearance, seeming no more than three years his senior at most. I am to call such a person father?

_{There is imagination, and then there is reality—which is disappointing more times than not.}Chapter 1.2: Han Xiling

There is imagination, and then there is reality—which is disappointing more times than not.

☆☆☆

_{Han Xiling was such a wreck that this time around his legs had broken out in tremors. While on the inside, he tearfully expressed his regrets.}
Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.

Han Xiling was such a wreck that this time around his legs had broken out in tremors. While on the inside, he tearfully expressed his regrets.

_{“Be quick about it!”}Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.

“Be quick about it!”

_N/A“Father!” Han Xiling felt his stomach churn at the word, “Here is your tea.”

N/A

_{It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.}
Han Jiangxue took his seat on the grand preceptor’s armchair before waving his hand towards Han Xiling and instructing, “Go make me a cup of tea.”

It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.

_{“His name is Han Xiling. From now on, call him young master (xiao shaoye).”}“How should you address me?” Han Jiangxue asked with eyes still closed, but Han Xiling hesitated for a while, not quite knowing how to voice the word “father.”

“His name is Han Xiling. From now on, call him young master (xiao shaoye).”

_{Han Xiling nodded in response.}
On an eight immortals table, a set of teacups and a teapot were prearranged. Han Xiling placed his hand on the teapot, still infused with heat. Under the assumption it was left there by Aunty Wu, he picked up the pot and poured out some tea.

Han Xiling nodded in response.

_{Han Xiling nodded in response.}Han Jingxue had made his way to the orphanage on a single horse, so it was only natural that Han Xiling would ride this one horse with him on the journey from the east to the west.

Han Xiling nodded in response.

_{“These are Uncle and Aunty Wu. Uncle Wu is in charge of the tough manual chores, and Aunty Wu is in charge of the cooking and cleaning.” Even in his introductions, Han Jiangxue was curt.}It would have been better for those words to have never been said, because once spoken, Han Xiling’s tears truly became uncontrollable.

“These are Uncle and Aunty Wu. Uncle Wu is in charge of the tough manual chores, and Aunty Wu is in charge of the cooking and cleaning.” Even in his introductions, Han Jiangxue was curt.

_{Han Jingxue had made his way to the orphanage on a single horse, so it was only natural that Han Xiling would ride this one horse with him on the journey from the east to the west.}
Han Jiangxue took the cup served to him, the contents downed between his parted lips. But in that same instant, all of it was spat out and the cup was flung to the ground. The collision as it struck the marble floor was crisp; the sound it made as it shattered was loud.

Han Jingxue had made his way to the orphanage on a single horse, so it was only natural that Han Xiling would ride this one horse with him on the journey from the east to the west.

_{From behind his departing back, a string of mocking laughter echoed, making him clench his fists so tіghtly they almost bled.}On an eight immortals table, a set of teacups and a teapot were prearranged. Han Xiling placed his hand on the teapot, still infused with heat. Under the assumption it was left there by Aunty Wu, he picked up the pot and poured out some tea.

From behind his departing back, a string of mocking laughter echoed, making him clench his fists so tіghtly they almost bled.

_{It would have been better for those words to have never been said, because once spoken, Han Xiling’s tears truly became uncontrollable.}Neurotic, arrogant, conceited son-of-a-bitch! You self-important lunatic!

It would have been better for those words to have never been said, because once spoken, Han Xiling’s tears truly became uncontrollable.

_{“Understood.” Again, Han Xiling left the hall with his head hanging and teapot in hand while muttering insults under his breath.}With such things further adding to his imaginings, Han Xiling never expected Han Jingxue’s home to be as it was. A small courtyard with no towering pavilions; no rockeries with flowing water nor a back garden in sight; just a small mansion with two pomegranate trees planted at its front and not a thing else.

“Understood.” Again, Han Xiling left the hall with his head hanging and teapot in hand while muttering insults under his breath.

_{Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.}After replying, Uncle Wu walked away with Han Xiling’s vacant stare trailing him. Han Xiling then turned his eyes to peek at Han Jiangxue. It was only then that he realised the impression he had of that man beside him was a gross misinterpretation. Han Jiangxue wasn’t some guy who loved to smile and laugh—he was a nitpicky lunatic!

Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.

_☆☆☆
“I only drink tea that is hot.”

☆☆☆

_{“Father, please have some tea.”}“Goodness… it seems the master’s complex has indeed reared its head again.” The old woman caressed Han Xiling’s head. “Do not be sad, young master. Master doesn’t mean anything by it. Master just has a habit of toying with others when he has nothing else to do. So please do not take it to heart.”

“Father, please have some tea.”

_{Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.}Since early that morning, his chеst has bubbled with a surreal sensation, and now part of these lingering dreams has come true.

Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.

_{“He favours his tea hot and only drinks the “Five Trees” tea leaves. No matter how good other tea leaves are, he will not consume them.}“Aunty Wu…” Once in the kitchen, Han Xiling's eyes poured out tears upon tears while that teapot was still held in his hands.

“He favours his tea hot and only drinks the “Five Trees” tea leaves. No matter how good other tea leaves are, he will not consume them. He does not allow for his things to be moved. He does not allow for noise when he is resting at home. He is especially fond of sweet foods, so any food of that kind here can only be eaten if he has no interest in eating it himself. Last of all, when guests visit the mansion, you must not pay them any mind. They must remain unseen. Do you understand, young master?”

While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

_{“Uncle Wu, go boil some water and fill a large tub. When that’s done, wash him well,” Han Jiangxue instructed with knitted brows frаming an expression of disgust.}
Han Xiling stared at the broken pieces strewn across the floor, his thoughts barely registering the complaint sent his way. That was such a pretty cup. It must’ve cost a pretty penny, too. I reckon just it alone could’ve been enough to pay for my senior brothers’ breakfast many times over. What an absolute shame.

“Uncle Wu, go boil some water and fill a large tub. When that’s done, wash him well,” Han Jiangxue instructed with knitted brows frаming an expression of disgust.

_{If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.}Since early that morning, his chеst has bubbled with a surreal sensation, and now part of these lingering dreams has come true.

If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

_{Han Xiling stared at the broken pieces strewn across the floor, his thoughts barely registering the complaint sent his way. {That was such a pretty cup. It must’ve cost a pretty penny, too. I reckon just it alone could’ve been enough to pay for my senior brothers’ breakfast many times over. What an absolute shame.}}A bevy of menservants and maidservants rushing out to greet them was another expectation held by Han Xiling. But instead, only two persons had come out to greet them—an elderly man and woman.

Han Xiling stared at the broken pieces strewn across the floor, his thoughts barely registering the complaint sent his way. That was such a pretty cup. It must’ve cost a pretty penny, too. I reckon just it alone could’ve been enough to pay for my senior brothers’ breakfast many times over. What an absolute shame.

_{“Father, please have some tea.”}☆☆☆

“Father, please have some tea.”

_{“How should you address me?” Han Jiangxue asked with eyes still closed, but Han Xiling hesitated for a while, not quite knowing how to voice the word “father.”}
“Be quick about it!”

“How should you address me?” Han Jiangxue asked with eyes still closed, but Han Xiling hesitated for a while, not quite knowing how to voice the word “father.”

_{“Yes, master.”}If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

“Yes, master.”

_{“Before pouring the tea, you must first rinse the cup with the hot water, then pour it out. The first steeping will be somewhat bitter, so you must throw that one out as well. The second steeping is the one that must be served.”}“Here, I’ve brewed another batch of tea, so please take it to the master. Be careful on your way. This tea is quite precious, so no more of it can be wasted, alright?”

“Before pouring the tea, you must first rinse the cup with the hot water, then pour it out. The first steeping will be somewhat bitter, so you must throw that one out as well. The second steeping is the one that must be served.”

_{“Hello, Uncle Wu. Hello, Aunty Wu.” Just as Han Xiling was about to bow to the old couple, Hang Jiangxue grabbed him by the collar and kicked him hаrd behind the knees.}
“Uh, alright…” Han Xiling responded timidly as he wondered whether he was an adopted son or just another servant.

“Hello, Uncle Wu. Hello, Aunty Wu.” Just as Han Xiling was about to bow to the old couple, Hang Jiangxue grabbed him by the collar and kicked him hаrd behind the knees.

_{“Here, I’ve brewed another batch of tea, so please take it to the master. Be careful on your way. This tea is quite precious, so no more of it can be wasted, alright?”}Han Xiling was embarrassed by the act, his flυstered self unknowing of what to do.

“Here, I’ve brewed another batch of tea, so please take it to the master. Be careful on your way. This tea is quite precious, so no more of it can be wasted, alright?”

_{“Before pouring the tea, you must first rinse the cup with the hot water, then pour it out. The first steeping will be somewhat bitter, so you must throw that one out as well. The second steeping is the one that must be served.”}Like this, Aunty Wu carefully taught Han Xiling the art of making tea. It took most of the day before they were finished, and Han Xiling again returned to the hall carrying that teapot in his hands.

_{Han Xiling made his way to the back side of the house with the teapot in hand to find Aunty Wu.}Fortunately, no cup was flung after the tea was tasted. But after finishing the tea, Han Jiangxue placed the cup on the table and commented, “Did you cry? Look at your pitiful sight! You had the smallest bit of promise and thought that was enough to become a Sword Knight? If this is how you think, keep dreaming!” With a raised brow, he spat out those words with disdain.

Han Xiling made his way to the back side of the house with the teapot in hand to find Aunty Wu.

_{“Understood.” Han Xiling turned to leave.}
But he spent no time lingering on such thoughts; after all, it was all the same to him. That person was a nobleman, and he was nothing but an orphan boy. For a person like him, being adopted was itself a great blessing, so how could he dare expect to also be pampered like a true son of a nobleman?

“Understood.” Han Xiling turned to leave.

_{“Do not speak out of turn!”}He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.

“Do not speak out of turn!”

But he spent no time lingering on such thoughts; after all, it was all the same to him. That person was a nobleman, and he was nothing but an orphan boy. For a person like him, being adopted was itself a great blessing, so how could he dare expect to also be pampered like a true son of a nobleman?

_{“Oh… um, hello.” Still very much embarrassed and possessing a heart still berating his chеst, Han Xiling still hadn’t adjusted to going from an orphan to a “young master.”}Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.

“Oh… um, hello.” Still very much embarrassed and possessing a heart still berating his chеst, Han Xiling still hadn’t adjusted to going from an orphan to a “young master.”

☆☆☆

_{“Here, I’ve brewed another batch of tea, so please take it to the master. Be careful on your way. This tea is quite precious, so no more of it can be wasted, alright?”}
Han Xiling made his way to the back side of the house with the teapot in hand to find Aunty Wu.

“Here, I’ve brewed another batch of tea, so please take it to the master. Be careful on your way. This tea is quite precious, so no more of it can be wasted, alright?”

_{If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.}“Oh, alright.” Han Xiling replied in a murmur. That guy really is a pain to serve.

If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

_{Han Xiling made his way to the back side of the house with the teapot in hand to find Aunty Wu.}
He told the old woman about what happened. She breathed out a sigh upon hearing about the shattered cup. Looking at Han Xiling, she then said sincerely, “Young master, from now on, whenever the master requests such tasks, please come ask me. Do you understand? The master has many rules, and if they are not followed, he will be furious.”

Han Xiling made his way to the back side of the house with the teapot in hand to find Aunty Wu.

_{“Be quick about it!”}“How should you address me?” Han Jiangxue asked with eyes still closed, but Han Xiling hesitated for a while, not quite knowing how to voice the word “father.”

“Be quick about it!”

_{Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.}Han Xiling was such a wreck that this time around his legs had broken out in tremors. While on the inside, he tearfully expressed his regrets.

Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.

_{“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”}Han Jiangxue took the cup served to him, the contents downed between his parted lips. But in that same instant, all of it was spat out and the cup was flung to the ground. The collision as it struck the marble floor was crisp; the sound it made as it shattered was loud.

“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”

_☆☆☆“Uncle Wu, go boil some water and fill a large tub. When that’s done, wash him well,” Han Jiangxue instructed with knitted brows frаming an expression of disgust.

☆☆☆

_{“Understood.” Han Xiling turned to leave.}“Oh, alright.” Han Xiling replied in a murmur. That guy really is a pain to serve.

“Understood.” Han Xiling turned to leave.

_{“Oh, that’s great, then.” Han Xiling nodded and left after getting an answer, his expression pleased.}
“He favours his tea hot and only drinks the “Five Trees” tea leaves. No matter how good other tea leaves are, he will not consume them. He does not allow for his things to be moved. He does not allow for noise when he is resting at home. He is especially fond of sweet foods, so any food of that kind here can only be eaten if he has no interest in eating it himself. Last of all, when guests visit the mansion, you must not pay them any mind. They must remain unseen. Do you understand, young master?”

“Oh, that’s great, then.” Han Xiling nodded and left after getting an answer, his expression pleased.

_{“He favours his tea hot and only drinks the “Five Trees” tea leaves. No matter how good other tea leaves are, he will not consume them.}“Oh, that’s great, then.” Han Xiling nodded and left after getting an answer, his expression pleased.

_{It was Han Xiling’s first time truly entering the western city due to the strict hierarchical system his country enforced. As it was, any child from the eastern region who dared enter the west without authorisation would be arrested and beaten. No one would so much as at an eye if they also ended up dead.}“He favours his tea hot and only drinks the “Five Trees” tea leaves. No matter how good other tea leaves are, he will not consume them. He does not allow for his things to be moved. He does not allow for noise when he is resting at home. He is especially fond of sweet foods, so any food of that kind here can only be eaten if he has no interest in eating it himself. Last of all, when guests visit the mansion, you must not pay them any mind. They must remain unseen. Do you understand, young master?”

It was Han Xiling’s first time truly entering the western city due to the strict hierarchical system his country enforced. As it was, any child from the eastern region who dared enter the west without authorisation would be arrested and beaten. No one would so much as at an eye if they also ended up dead.

_{“I only drink tea that is hot.”}
“I understand.”

“I only drink tea that is hot.”

_N/A“Yes, master.”

N/A

_☆☆☆“Oh my, don’t cry. Please don’t cry.” Aunty Wu wiped away her newest young master’s tears as she coaxed. “The master hates seeing others cry the most. In fact, it is another taboo of this house that you must also remember, yes?”

☆☆☆

_{“Understood.”}Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.

“Understood.”

_N/A
“Here, I’ve brewed another batch of tea, so please take it to the master. Be careful on your way. This tea is quite precious, so no more of it can be wasted, alright?”

N/A

_{“Yes, master.”}Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.

“Yes, master.”

_{After replying, Uncle Wu walked away with Han Xiling’s vacant stare trailing him. Han Xiling then turned his eyes to peek at Han Jiangxue. It was only then that he realised the impression he had of that man beside him was a gross misinterpretation. {Han Jiangxue wasn’t some guy who loved to smile and laugh—he was a nitpicky lunatic!}}“Goodness… it seems the master’s complex has indeed reared its head again.” The old woman caressed Han Xiling’s head. “Do not be sad, young master. Master doesn’t mean anything by it. Master just has a habit of toying with others when he has nothing else to do. So please do not take it to heart.”

After replying, Uncle Wu walked away with Han Xiling’s vacant stare trailing him. Han Xiling then turned his eyes to peek at Han Jiangxue. It was only then that he realised the impression he had of that man beside him was a gross misinterpretation. Han Jiangxue wasn’t some guy who loved to smile and laugh—he was a nitpicky lunatic!

_{There is imagination, and then there is reality—which is disappointing more times than not.}
“Mn.” Han Xiling hummed before setting off towards the kitchen door with the hot teapot in hand. But before he left, he turned back to ask in a whisper, “Aunty Wu, he doesn’t beat people, does he?”

There is imagination, and then there is reality—which is disappointing more times than not.

_{“Uncle Wu, go boil some water and fill a large tub. When that’s done, wash him well,” Han Jiangxue instructed with knitted brows frаming an expression of disgust.}“Understood.” Again, Han Xiling left the hall with his head hanging and teapot in hand while muttering insults under his breath.

“Uncle Wu, go boil some water and fill a large tub. When that’s done, wash him well,” Han Jiangxue instructed with knitted brows frаming an expression of disgust.

_{“You’re their young master (shao zhu). From this day onwards, they will serve you. Where have you ever seen a master that bows to their servants?!” Han Jiangxue shot Han Xiling with a harsh glare.}Han Jiangxue took the cup and again took a drawn-out sip.

_{With such things further adding to his imaginings, Han Xiling never expected Han Jingxue’s home to be as it was. A small courtyard with no towering pavilions; no rockeries with flowing water nor a back garden in sight; just a small mansion with two pomegranate trees planted at its front and not a thing else.}
“What?” Aunty Wu’s eyes widened before she broke out in a laugh. “No, of course not. The master may have a temper, but he never lays a hand on a person for no good reason.”

_{Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.}“Uncle Wu, go boil some water and fill a large tub. When that’s done, wash him well,” Han Jiangxue instructed with knitted brows frаming an expression of disgust.

Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.

_{Han Xiling made his way to the back side of the house with the teapot in hand to find Aunty Wu.}☆☆☆

Han Xiling made his way to the back side of the house with the teapot in hand to find Aunty Wu.

_{Han Jiangxue took his seat on the grand preceptor’s armchair before waving his hand towards Han Xiling and instructing, “Go make me a cup of tea.”}
“Oh, that’s great, then.” Han Xiling nodded and left after getting an answer, his expression pleased.

Han Jiangxue took his seat on the grand preceptor’s armchair before waving his hand towards Han Xiling and instructing, “Go make me a cup of tea.”

_{While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”}He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.

While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

_{But he spent no time lingering on such thoughts; after all, it was all the same to him. That person was a nobleman, and he was nothing but an orphan boy. For a person like him, being adopted was itself a great blessing, so how could he dare expect to also be pampered like a true son of a nobleman?}Note: 少主: shào zhǔ literally means young + master, while 小少爷: xiǎo shǎoye means the little young master of a house (the son [youngest] of a family). He has to be called little young master because, as a 20-year-old man, Han Jiangxue is also a young master (少爷), but for the sake of brevity and the lack of a father for Han Jiangxue present, he’s getting called master here.

_{Han Xiling was such a wreck that this time around his legs had broken out in tremors. While on the inside, he tearfully expressed his regrets.}Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.

Han Xiling was such a wreck that this time around his legs had broken out in tremors. While on the inside, he tearfully expressed his regrets.

_{“Greetings, young master (shao zhu)!” It was now time for the old couple to bow and give Han Xiling their greetings.}
If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

“Greetings, young master (shao zhu)!” It was now time for the old couple to bow and give Han Xiling their greetings.

_{Han Xiling nodded in response.}Han Xiling selected a cup for the third time and then rinsed it with hot water. He poured out a cup of tea and tossed that out before pouring out a second. When he was done, he took this third attempt and presented it to the man before him.

Han Xiling nodded in response.

☆☆☆

_{“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”}
Han Xiling entered the hall once more, the teapot carried cautiously in his hands. Han Jiangxue was still seated in the grand seat, his eyes now closed in rest.

“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”

_{“Uh, alright…” Han Xiling responded timidly as he wondered whether he was an adopted son or just another servant.}“Go wash up.”

“Uh, alright…” Han Xiling responded timidly as he wondered whether he was an adopted son or just another servant.

_{Everything in the western city was a world apart from the east. The houses were all a sight of splendour. The roads were paved with bricks of slate. As the hooves of horses trotted across these carefully laid azure stones, the sound echoing beneath was clear and crisp. It was nothing like the roads in the east region that were simply flattened earth.}“What?” Aunty Wu’s eyes widened before she broke out in a laugh. “No, of course not. The master may have a temper, but he never lays a hand on a person for no good reason.”

_{“Father, please have some tea.”}
Ham Xiling poured tea into one of those pretty cups and presented it to his adoptive father with both hands. “Your tea.”

“Father, please have some tea.”

If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

_{“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”}But he spent no time lingering on such thoughts; after all, it was all the same to him. That person was a nobleman, and he was nothing but an orphan boy. For a person like him, being adopted was itself a great blessing, so how could he dare expect to also be pampered like a true son of a nobleman?

“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”

_{He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.}“These are Uncle and Aunty Wu. Uncle Wu is in charge of the tough manual chores, and Aunty Wu is in charge of the cooking and cleaning.” Even in his introductions, Han Jiangxue was curt.

He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.

_{“You’re their young master (shao zhu). From this day onwards, they will serve you. Where have you ever seen a master that bows to their servants?!” Han Jiangxue shot Han Xiling with a harsh glare.}
“How should you address me?” Han Jiangxue asked with eyes still closed, but Han Xiling hesitated for a while, not quite knowing how to voice the word “father.”

_{“What?” Aunty Wu’s eyes widened before she broke out in a laugh. “No, of course not. The master may have a temper, but he never lays a hand on a person for no good reason.”}Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.

“What?” Aunty Wu’s eyes widened before she broke out in a laugh. “No, of course not. The master may have a temper, but he never lays a hand on a person for no good reason.”

_{Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.}There is imagination, and then there is reality—which is disappointing more times than not.

Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.

_{Since early that morning, his chеst has bubbled with a surreal sensation, and now part of these lingering dreams has come true.}
The man before him was remarkably young in appearance, seeming no more than three years his senior at most. I am to call such a person father?

Since early that morning, his chеst has bubbled with a surreal sensation, and now part of these lingering dreams has come true.

_{“How should you address me?” Han Jiangxue asked with eyes still closed, but Han Xiling hesitated for a while, not quite knowing how to voice the word “father.”}Han Xiling stared at the broken pieces strewn across the floor, his thoughts barely registering the complaint sent his way. That was such a pretty cup. It must’ve cost a pretty penny, too. I reckon just it alone could’ve been enough to pay for my senior brothers’ breakfast many times over. What an absolute shame.

“How should you address me?” Han Jiangxue asked with eyes still closed, but Han Xiling hesitated for a while, not quite knowing how to voice the word “father.”

_{{Neurotic, arrogant, conceited son-of-a-bitch! You self-important lunatic!}}But he spent no time lingering on such thoughts; after all, it was all the same to him. That person was a nobleman, and he was nothing but an orphan boy. For a person like him, being adopted was itself a great blessing, so how could he dare expect to also be pampered like a true son of a nobleman?

Neurotic, arrogant, conceited son-of-a-bitch! You self-important lunatic!

_{Chapter 1.2: Han Xiling}
“How should I be addressed?”

Chapter 1.2: Han Xiling

_{Han Jingxue had made his way to the orphanage on a single horse, so it was only natural that Han Xiling would ride this one horse with him on the journey from the east to the west.}It would have been better for those words to have never been said, because once spoken, Han Xiling’s tears truly became uncontrollable.

Han Jingxue had made his way to the orphanage on a single horse, so it was only natural that Han Xiling would ride this one horse with him on the journey from the east to the west.

_{The mere act of traversing upon such a path was enough to make one’s heart feel cleansed.}“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.

The mere act of traversing upon such a path was enough to make one’s heart feel cleansed.

_{“Father, your tea.”}
“Father!” Han Xiling felt his stomach churn at the word, “Here is your tea.”

“Father, your tea.”

_{“Uncle Wu, go boil some water and fill a large tub. When that’s done, wash him well,” Han Jiangxue instructed with knitted brows frаming an expression of disgust.}Han Xiling made his way to the back side of the house with the teapot in hand to find Aunty Wu.

“Uncle Wu, go boil some water and fill a large tub. When that’s done, wash him well,” Han Jiangxue instructed with knitted brows frаming an expression of disgust.

_{“Oh, alright.” Han Xiling replied in a murmur. {That guy really is a pain to serve.}}After replying, Uncle Wu walked away with Han Xiling’s vacant stare trailing him. Han Xiling then turned his eyes to peek at Han Jiangxue. It was only then that he realised the impression he had of that man beside him was a gross misinterpretation. Han Jiangxue wasn’t some guy who loved to smile and laugh—he was a nitpicky lunatic!

“Oh, alright.” Han Xiling replied in a murmur. That guy really is a pain to serve.

_{“Be quick about it!”}“What? Are you upset?” Han Jiangxue again mocked.

“Be quick about it!”

_{“Understood!” Han Xiling almost roared.}
Han Jiangxue finally opened his eyes and took the cup presented to him. But before Han Xiling could fully exhale a sigh of relief, the cup just taken was thrown to the floor, where it shattered. It was such a shock that he almost leapt out of his skin.

“Understood!” Han Xiling almost roared.

_{While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”}“What?” Aunty Wu’s eyes widened before she broke out in a laugh. “No, of course not. The master may have a temper, but he never lays a hand on a person for no good reason.”

While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

_{“Understood.” Again, Han Xiling left the hall with his head hanging and teapot in hand while muttering insults under his breath.}After replying, Uncle Wu walked away with Han Xiling’s vacant stare trailing him. Han Xiling then turned his eyes to peek at Han Jiangxue. It was only then that he realised the impression he had of that man beside him was a gross misinterpretation. Han Jiangxue wasn’t some guy who loved to smile and laugh—he was a nitpicky lunatic!

“Understood.” Again, Han Xiling left the hall with his head hanging and teapot in hand while muttering insults under his breath.

_{Han Xiling entered the hall once more, the teapot carried cautiously in his hands. Han Jiangxue was still seated in the grand seat, his eyes now closed in rest.}Han Xiling entered the hall once more, the teapot carried cautiously in his hands. Han Jiangxue was still seated in the grand seat, his eyes now closed in rest.

Han Xiling entered the hall once more, the teapot carried cautiously in his hands. Han Jiangxue was still seated in the grand seat, his eyes now closed in rest.

_{“Understood…”}☆☆☆

“Understood…”

_{“Understood.”}
Does having money mean you can waste it like this?! Goodness!

“Understood.”

_{Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.}“Yes, master.”

Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.

_{Headmaster, Headmistress, had I known this was the fate awaiting me, I would’ve never left the academy. I’d rather stay there and be whipped than get adopted into such a house run by a lunatic! Sobs…}
While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

_{The mere act of traversing upon such a path was enough to make one’s heart feel cleansed.}“Oh my, don’t cry. Please don’t cry.” Aunty Wu wiped away her newest young master’s tears as she coaxed. “The master hates seeing others cry the most. In fact, it is another taboo of this house that you must also remember, yes?”

The mere act of traversing upon such a path was enough to make one’s heart feel cleansed.

_{“Greetings, young master.”}“His name is Han Xiling. From now on, call him young master (xiao shaoye).”

“Greetings, young master.”

_{The man before him was remarkably young in appearance, seeming no more than three years his senior at most. {I am to call such a person father?}}☆☆☆

The man before him was remarkably young in appearance, seeming no more than three years his senior at most. I am to call such a person father?

_{Like this, Aunty Wu carefully taught Han Xiling the art of making tea. It took most of the day before they were finished, and Han Xiling again returned to the hall carrying that teapot in his hands.}It was Han Xiling’s first time truly entering the western city due to the strict hierarchical system his country enforced. As it was, any child from the eastern region who dared enter the west without authorisation would be arrested and beaten. No one would so much as at an eye if they also ended up dead.

Like this, Aunty Wu carefully taught Han Xiling the art of making tea. It took most of the day before they were finished, and Han Xiling again returned to the hall carrying that teapot in his hands.

_{A bevy of menservants and maidservants rushing out to greet them was another expectation held by Han Xiling. But instead, only two persons had come out to greet them—an elderly man and woman.}
To this, Han Xiling could only sputter out an “Oh.” How was he supposed to know such a thing? He was a boy who spent his life fighting for a drink of water, so how would he ever have the fortune to learn the proper way of preparing tea?

A bevy of menservants and maidservants rushing out to greet them was another expectation held by Han Xiling. But instead, only two persons had come out to greet them—an elderly man and woman.

_{“Hello, Uncle Wu. Hello, Aunty Wu.” Just as Han Xiling was about to bow to the old couple, Hang Jiangxue grabbed him by the collar and kicked him hаrd behind the knees.}“What? Are you upset?” Han Jiangxue again mocked.

“Hello, Uncle Wu. Hello, Aunty Wu.” Just as Han Xiling was about to bow to the old couple, Hang Jiangxue grabbed him by the collar and kicked him hаrd behind the knees.

_{“Father, please have some tea.”}Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.

“Father, please have some tea.”

_{If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.}He told the old woman about what happened. She breathed out a sigh upon hearing about the shattered cup. Looking at Han Xiling, she then said sincerely, “Young master, from now on, whenever the master requests such tasks, please come ask me. Do you understand? The master has many rules, and if they are not followed, he will be furious.”

If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

_{“Father!” Han Xiling felt his stomach churn at the word, “Here is your tea.”}
“Before pouring the tea, you must first rinse the cup with the hot water, then pour it out. The first steeping will be somewhat bitter, so you must throw that one out as well. The second steeping is the one that must be served.”

“Father!” Han Xiling felt his stomach churn at the word, “Here is your tea.”

_{Han Xiling selected a cup for the third time and then rinsed it with hot water. He poured out a cup of tea and tossed that out before pouring out a second. When he was done, he took this third attempt and presented it to the man before him.}“Uh, alright…” Han Xiling responded timidly as he wondered whether he was an adopted son or just another servant.

Han Xiling selected a cup for the third time and then rinsed it with hot water. He poured out a cup of tea and tossed that out before pouring out a second. When he was done, he took this third attempt and presented it to the man before him.

_{Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.}Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.

Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.

“These are Uncle and Aunty Wu. Uncle Wu is in charge of the tough manual chores, and Aunty Wu is in charge of the cooking and cleaning.” Even in his introductions, Han Jiangxue was curt.

_{“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.}
“Understood.”

“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.

_{Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.}“Hello, Uncle Wu. Hello, Aunty Wu.” Just as Han Xiling was about to bow to the old couple, Hang Jiangxue grabbed him by the collar and kicked him hаrd behind the knees.

Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.

_{“Goodness… it seems the master’s complex has indeed reared its head again.” The old woman caressed Han Xiling’s head. “Do not be sad, young master. Master doesn’t mean anything by it. Master just has a habit of toying with others when he has nothing else to do. So please do not take it to heart.”}“I am not.” Han Xiling forced out, barely managing to restrain his anger. I need to calm down. There’s nothing I can do. Since I’m dependent on this person I need to endure. I must.

_{“Aunty Wu, go prepare lunch... more than usual. I heard this kid is rather fond of eating.”}
Han Xiling selected a cup for the third time and then rinsed it with hot water. He poured out a cup of tea and tossed that out before pouring out a second. When he was done, he took this third attempt and presented it to the man before him.

“Aunty Wu, go prepare lunch... more than usual. I heard this kid is rather fond of eating.”

_{Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.}“Go wash up.”

Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.

_{“Understood.”}It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.

“Understood.”

_{It would have been better for those words to have never been said, because once spoken, Han Xiling’s tears truly became uncontrollable.}Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.

It would have been better for those words to have never been said, because once spoken, Han Xiling’s tears truly became uncontrollable.

_{“Father, please have some tea.”}On an eight immortals table, a set of teacups and a teapot were prearranged. Han Xiling placed his hand on the teapot, still infused with heat. Under the assumption it was left there by Aunty Wu, he picked up the pot and poured out some tea.

“Father, please have some tea.”

_{“His name is Han Xiling. From now on, call him young master (xiao shaoye).”}
“Father, please have some tea.”

“His name is Han Xiling. From now on, call him young master (xiao shaoye).”

_{“Go wash up.”}“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”

“Go wash up.”

_{“Greetings, young master.”}Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.

“Greetings, young master.”

_{“Yes, master.”}
Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.

“Yes, master.”

_{Han Xiling was embarrassed by the act, his flυstered self unknowing of what to do.}“Father, your tea.”

Han Xiling was embarrassed by the act, his flυstered self unknowing of what to do.

A bevy of menservants and maidservants rushing out to greet them was another expectation held by Han Xiling. But instead, only two persons had come out to greet them—an elderly man and woman.

_{The man before him was remarkably young in appearance, seeming no more than three years his senior at most. I am to call such a person father?}
Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.

The man before him was remarkably young in appearance, seeming no more than three years his senior at most. I am to call such a person father?

_{“Father!” Han Xiling felt his stomach churn at the word, “Here is your tea.”}Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.

“Father!” Han Xiling felt his stomach churn at the word, “Here is your tea.”

_{“Uh, alright…” Han Xiling responded timidly as he wondered whether he was an adopted son or just another servant.}
It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.

“Uh, alright…” Han Xiling responded timidly as he wondered whether he was an adopted son or just another servant.

_{“Aunty Wu…” Once in the kitchen, Han Xiling's eyes poured out tears upon tears while that teapot was still held in his hands.}
But before this moment of relief could be solidified, that third cup went flying, and that man barked out.

“Aunty Wu…” Once in the kitchen, Han Xiling's eyes poured out tears upon tears while that teapot was still held in his hands.

_{Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.}Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.

Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.

_{“Uh, alright…” Han Xiling responded timidly as he wondered whether he was an adopted son or just another servant.}The man before him was remarkably young in appearance, seeming no more than three years his senior at most. I am to call such a person father?

“Uh, alright…” Han Xiling responded timidly as he wondered whether he was an adopted son or just another servant.

_{It would have been better for those words to have never been said, because once spoken, Han Xiling’s tears truly became uncontrollable.}
“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”

It would have been better for those words to have never been said, because once spoken, Han Xiling’s tears truly became uncontrollable.

_{But before this moment of relief could be solidified, that third cup went flying, and that man barked out.}There is imagination, and then there is reality—which is disappointing more times than not.

But before this moment of relief could be solidified, that third cup went flying, and that man barked out.

_{“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”}Ham Xiling poured tea into one of those pretty cups and presented it to his adoptive father with both hands. “Your tea.”

“Did Aunty Wu help you steep this? Go steep it again on your own! You will be the one responsible for this task from now on, understood?!”

_{There is imagination, and then there is reality—which is disappointing more times than not.}“Greetings, young master.”

There is imagination, and then there is reality—which is disappointing more times than not.

_{The mere act of traversing upon such a path was enough to make one’s heart feel cleansed.}
“Understood.” Again, Han Xiling left the hall with his head hanging and teapot in hand while muttering insults under his breath.

The mere act of traversing upon such a path was enough to make one’s heart feel cleansed.

_{“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.}“Here, I’ve brewed another batch of tea, so please take it to the master. Be careful on your way. This tea is quite precious, so no more of it can be wasted, alright?”

“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.

_{Neurotic, arrogant, conceited son-of-a-bitch! You self-important lunatic!}
Neurotic, arrogant, conceited son-of-a-bitch! You self-important lunatic!

Neurotic, arrogant, conceited son-of-a-bitch! You self-important lunatic!

_{“Be quick about it!”}He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.

“Be quick about it!”

_{It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.}The mere act of traversing upon such a path was enough to make one’s heart feel cleansed.

It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.

_{“Do not speak out of turn!”}
“Aunty Wu…” Once in the kitchen, Han Xiling's eyes poured out tears upon tears while that teapot was still held in his hands.

“Do not speak out of turn!”

_{“What?” Aunty Wu’s eyes widened before she broke out in a laugh. “No, of course not. The master may have a temper, but he never lays a hand on a person for no good reason.”}“He favours his tea hot and only drinks the “Five Trees” tea leaves. No matter how good other tea leaves are, he will not consume them. He does not allow for his things to be moved. He does not allow for noise when he is resting at home. He is especially fond of sweet foods, so any food of that kind here can only be eaten if he has no interest in eating it himself. Last of all, when guests visit the mansion, you must not pay them any mind. They must remain unseen. Do you understand, young master?”

“What?” Aunty Wu’s eyes widened before she broke out in a laugh. “No, of course not. The master may have a temper, but he never lays a hand on a person for no good reason.”

_{Han Xiling entered the hall once more, the teapot carried cautiously in his hands. Han Jiangxue was still seated in the grand seat, his eyes now closed in rest.}
“Goodness… it seems the master’s complex has indeed reared its head again.” The old woman caressed Han Xiling’s head. “Do not be sad, young master. Master doesn’t mean anything by it. Master just has a habit of toying with others when he has nothing else to do. So please do not take it to heart.”

Han Xiling entered the hall once more, the teapot carried cautiously in his hands. Han Jiangxue was still seated in the grand seat, his eyes now closed in rest.

_{“Understood.” Han Xiling turned to leave.}Does having money mean you can waste it like this?! Goodness!

“Understood.” Han Xiling turned to leave.

_{“Goodness… it seems the master’s complex has indeed reared its head again.” The old woman caressed Han Xiling’s head. “Do not be sad, young master. Master doesn’t mean anything by it. Master just has a habit of toying with others when he has nothing else to do. So please do not take it to heart.”}He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.

_{To this, Han Xiling could only sputter out an “Oh.” How was he supposed to know such a thing? He was a boy who spent his life fighting for a drink of water, so how would he ever have the fortune to learn the proper way of preparing tea?}Han Xiling stared at the broken pieces strewn across the floor, his thoughts barely registering the complaint sent his way. That was such a pretty cup. It must’ve cost a pretty penny, too. I reckon just it alone could’ve been enough to pay for my senior brothers’ breakfast many times over. What an absolute shame.

_{After replying, Uncle Wu walked away with Han Xiling’s vacant stare trailing him. Han Xiling then turned his eyes to peek at Han Jiangxue. It was only then that he realised the impression he had of that man beside him was a gross misinterpretation. Han Jiangxue wasn’t some guy who loved to smile and laugh—he was a nitpicky lunatic!}
It would have been better for those words to have never been said, because once spoken, Han Xiling’s tears truly became uncontrollable.

_{Han Xiling selected a cup for the third time and then rinsed it with hot water. He poured out a cup of tea and tossed that out before pouring out a second. When he was done, he took this third attempt and presented it to the man before him.}“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.

_{“Father, your tea.”}The man before him was remarkably young in appearance, seeming no more than three years his senior at most. I am to call such a person father?

“Father, your tea.”

_{From behind his departing back, a string of mocking laughter echoed, making him clench his fists so tіghtly they almost bled.}“I only drink tea that is hot.”

From behind his departing back, a string of mocking laughter echoed, making him clench his fists so tіghtly they almost bled.

_{“Before pouring the tea, you must first rinse the cup with the hot water, then pour it out. The first steeping will be somewhat bitter, so you must throw that one out as well. The second steeping is the one that must be served.”}
“Oh my, don’t cry. Please don’t cry.” Aunty Wu wiped away her newest young master’s tears as she coaxed. “The master hates seeing others cry the most. In fact, it is another taboo of this house that you must also remember, yes?”

_{Han Xiling nodded in response.}☆☆☆

Han Xiling nodded in response.

_{“Greetings, young master.”}N/A

“Greetings, young master.”

_{Note: 少主: shào zhǔ literally means young + master, while 小少爷: xiǎo shǎoye means the little young master of a house (the son [youngest] of a family). He has to be called little young master because, as a 20-year-old man, Han Jiangxue is also a young master (少爷), but for the sake of brevity and the lack of a father for Han Jiangxue present, he’s getting called master here.}Han Jiangxue! Just you wait, you neurotic bastard. I’ll show you one day. Just you wait.

Note: 少主: shào zhǔ literally means young + master, while 小少爷: xiǎo shǎoye means the little young master of a house (the son [youngest] of a family). He has to be called little young master because, as a 20-year-old man, Han Jiangxue is also a young master (少爷), but for the sake of brevity and the lack of a father for Han Jiangxue present, he’s getting called master here.

_{He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.}
Han Xiling nodded in response.

He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.

_{If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.}“Oh, that’s great, then.” Han Xiling nodded and left after getting an answer, his expression pleased.

If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

_{“Understood.”}“What?” Aunty Wu’s eyes widened before she broke out in a laugh. “No, of course not. The master may have a temper, but he never lays a hand on a person for no good reason.”

“Understood.”

_{Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.}“Yes, master.”

Han Xiling followed Han Jiangxue into the central hall.

_{With such things further adding to his imaginings, Han Xiling never expected Han Jingxue’s home to be as it was. A small courtyard with no towering pavilions; no rockeries with flowing water nor a back garden in sight; just a small mansion with two pomegranate trees planted at its front and not a thing else.}There is imagination, and then there is reality—which is disappointing more times than not.

_{“How should I be addressed?”}
“Come on, now. I’ll teach you how to steep the tea. The first thing you must do is...”

“How should I be addressed?”

_{{Neurotic, arrogant, conceited son-of-a-bitch! You self-important lunatic!}}“Uh, alright…” Han Xiling responded timidly as he wondered whether he was an adopted son or just another servant.

Neurotic, arrogant, conceited son-of-a-bitch! You self-important lunatic!

_{The man before him was remarkably young in appearance, seeming no more than three years his senior at most. {I am to call such a person father?}}N/A

The man before him was remarkably young in appearance, seeming no more than three years his senior at most. I am to call such a person father?

_{“Come on, now. I’ll teach you how to steep the tea. The first thing you must do is...”}
Like this, Aunty Wu carefully taught Han Xiling the art of making tea. It took most of the day before they were finished, and Han Xiling again returned to the hall carrying that teapot in his hands.

“Come on, now. I’ll teach you how to steep the tea. The first thing you must do is...”

_{“Mn.” Han Xiling hummed before setting off towards the kitchen door with the hot teapot in hand. But before he left, he turned back to ask in a whisper, “Aunty Wu, he doesn’t beat people, does he?”}Han Xiling selected a cup for the third time and then rinsed it with hot water. He poured out a cup of tea and tossed that out before pouring out a second. When he was done, he took this third attempt and presented it to the man before him.

_{“He favours his tea hot and only drinks the “Five Trees” tea leaves. No matter how good other tea leaves are, he will not consume them.}
He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.

_{Han Xiling nodded in response.}But before this moment of relief could be solidified, that third cup went flying, and that man barked out.

Han Xiling nodded in response.

_{{Han Jiangxue! Just you wait, you neurotic bastard. I’ll show you one day. Just you wait.}}“Aunty Wu, go prepare lunch... more than usual. I heard this kid is rather fond of eating.”

Han Jiangxue! Just you wait, you neurotic bastard. I’ll show you one day. Just you wait.

_{He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.}“Greetings, young master (shao zhu)!” It was now time for the old couple to bow and give Han Xiling their greetings.

He picked up a cup again and carefully steeped the tea according to Aunty Wu’s instructions, then offered yet another cup to that man.

_{“What? Are you upset?” Han Jiangxue again mocked.}
“Father, your tea.”

“What? Are you upset?” Han Jiangxue again mocked.

_{Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.}“What? Are you upset?” Han Jiangxue again mocked.

Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.

_{“And your tea was rather unpleasant to drink, so practice properly from now on.”}Han Xiling entered the hall once more, the teapot carried cautiously in his hands. Han Jiangxue was still seated in the grand seat, his eyes now closed in rest.

“And your tea was rather unpleasant to drink, so practice properly from now on.”

_☆☆☆“Father, please have some tea.”

☆☆☆

_{Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.}
Han Jiangxue took the cup and again took a drawn-out sip.

Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.

_{Han Xiling entered the hall once more, the teapot carried cautiously in his hands. Han Jiangxue was still seated in the grand seat, his eyes now closed in rest.}Headmaster, Headmistress, had I known this was the fate awaiting me, I would’ve never left the academy. I’d rather stay there and be whipped than get adopted into such a house run by a lunatic! Sobs…

Han Xiling entered the hall once more, the teapot carried cautiously in his hands. Han Jiangxue was still seated in the grand seat, his eyes now closed in rest.

_{“I only drink tea that is hot.”}“Understood.” Han Xiling turned to leave.

“I only drink tea that is hot.”

_{“Yes, master.”}“Yes, master.”

“Yes, master.”

_{“I am not.” Han Xiling forced out, barely managing to restrain his anger. {I need to calm down. There’s nothing I can do. Since I’m dependent on this person I need to endure. I must.}}While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

“I am not.” Han Xiling forced out, barely managing to restrain his anger. I need to calm down. There’s nothing I can do. Since I’m dependent on this person I need to endure. I must.

_{Does having money mean you can waste it like this?! Goodness!}
Han Xiling was such a wreck that this time around his legs had broken out in tremors. While on the inside, he tearfully expressed his regrets.

Does having money mean you can waste it like this?! Goodness!

_{{Headmaster, Headmistress, had I known this was the fate awaiting me, I would’ve never left the academy. I’d rather stay there and be whipped than get adopted into such a house run by a lunatic! Sobs…}}Everything in the western city was a world apart from the east. The houses were all a sight of splendour. The roads were paved with bricks of slate. As the hooves of horses trotted across these carefully laid azure stones, the sound echoing beneath was clear and crisp. It was nothing like the roads in the east region that were simply flattened earth.

_{Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.}“Before pouring the tea, you must first rinse the cup with the hot water, then pour it out. The first steeping will be somewhat bitter, so you must throw that one out as well. The second steeping is the one that must be served.”

Han Jiangxue took the cup offered to him and slowly took a sip.

_{“Yes, master.”}
Headmaster, Headmistress, had I known this was the fate awaiting me, I would’ve never left the academy. I’d rather stay there and be whipped than get adopted into such a house run by a lunatic! Sobs…

“Yes, master.”

_{“You’re their young master (shao zhu). From this day onwards, they will serve you. Where have you ever seen a master that bows to their servants?!” Han Jiangxue shot Han Xiling with a harsh glare.}“Come on, now. I’ll teach you how to steep the tea. The first thing you must do is...”

_{“How should I be addressed?”}Like this, Aunty Wu carefully taught Han Xiling the art of making tea. It took most of the day before they were finished, and Han Xiling again returned to the hall carrying that teapot in his hands.

“How should I be addressed?”

_{“Go wash up.”}While Han Xiling lamented in his heat, that “father” of his asked, his expression grim, “Do you not know that a cup should be clean before pouring tea into it?”

“Go wash up.”

_{“Mn.” Han Xiling hummed before setting off towards the kitchen door with the hot teapot in hand. But before he left, he turned back to ask in a whisper, “Aunty Wu, he doesn’t beat people, does he?”}
Fortunately, no cup was flung after the tea was tasted. But after finishing the tea, Han Jiangxue placed the cup on the table and commented, “Did you cry? Look at your pitiful sight! You had the smallest bit of promise and thought that was enough to become a Sword Knight? If this is how you think, keep dreaming!” With a raised brow, he spat out those words with disdain.

_{If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.}Han Jiangxue took his seat on the grand preceptor’s armchair before waving his hand towards Han Xiling and instructing, “Go make me a cup of tea.”

If there was one thing he never wished for in this life again, it was living one where he was whipped at the drop of a hat.

_{“Father!” Han Xiling felt his stomach churn at the word, “Here is your tea.”}Han Xiling was embarrassed by the act, his flυstered self unknowing of what to do.

“Father!” Han Xiling felt his stomach churn at the word, “Here is your tea.”

_☆☆☆
Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.

☆☆☆

_{Note: 少主: shào zhǔ literally means young + master, while 小少爷: xiǎo shǎoye means the little young master of a house (the son [youngest] of a family). He has to be called little young master because, as a 20-year-old man, Han Jiangxue is also a young master (少爷), but for the sake of brevity and the lack of a father for Han Jiangxue present, he’s getting called master here.}There is imagination, and then there is reality—which is disappointing more times than not.

_{“How should I be addressed?”}“Understood!” Han Xiling almost roared.

“How should I be addressed?”

_{Han Xiling stared at the broken pieces strewn across the floor, his thoughts barely registering the complaint sent his way. {That was such a pretty cup. It must’ve cost a pretty penny, too. I reckon just it alone could’ve been enough to pay for my senior brothers’ breakfast many times over. What an absolute shame.}}It would have been better for those words to have never been said, because once spoken, Han Xiling’s tears truly became uncontrollable.

_{Note: 少主: shào zhǔ literally means young + master, while 小少爷: xiǎo shǎoye means the little young master of a house (the son [youngest] of a family). He has to be called little young master because, as a 20-year-old man, Han Jiangxue is also a young master (少爷), but for the sake of brevity and the lack of a father for Han Jiangxue present, he’s getting called master here.}
“What? Are you upset?” Han Jiangxue again mocked.

_{It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.}“Nothing,” Han Xiling slapped on a nervous grin, “I was saying that the house is really beautiful.”

It was only when that man swallowed his sip that Han Xiling’s heart finally descended back into his chеst.

_{“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.}Han Xiling was such a wreck that this time around his legs had broken out in tremors. While on the inside, he tearfully expressed his regrets.

“What are you muttering about over there?” That nitpicking lunatic swept his sharpened gaze towards Han Xiling like a dagger.

_{Han Jiangxue finally opened his eyes and took the cup presented to him. But before Han Xiling could fully exhale a sigh of relief, the cup just taken was thrown to the floor, where it shattered. It was such a shock that he almost leapt out of his skin.}
“I am not.” Han Xiling forced out, barely managing to restrain his anger. I need to calm down. There’s nothing I can do. Since I’m dependent on this person I need to endure. I must.

_☆☆☆Anger surged within Han Xiling’s chеst at those words, the fists lying at his sides tіghtening.

☆☆☆

_{Han Jiangxue! Just you wait, you neurotic bastard. I’ll show you one day. Just you wait.}
“Go wash up.”

Han Jiangxue! Just you wait, you neurotic bastard. I’ll show you one day. Just you wait.

_{Han Jingxue had made his way to the orphanage on a single horse, so it was only natural that Han Xiling would ride this one horse with him on the journey from the east to the west.}“How should I be addressed?”

Han Jingxue had made his way to the orphanage on a single horse, so it was only natural that Han Xiling would ride this one horse with him on the journey from the east to the west.

_{But before this moment of relief could be solidified, that third cup went flying, and that man barked out.}To this, Han Xiling could only sputter out an “Oh.” How was he supposed to know such a thing? He was a boy who spent his life fighting for a drink of water, so how would he ever have the fortune to learn the proper way of preparing tea?

But before this moment of relief could be solidified, that third cup went flying, and that man barked out.

_{“Understood…”}“These are Uncle and Aunty Wu. Uncle Wu is in charge of the tough manual chores, and Aunty Wu is in charge of the cooking and cleaning.” Even in his introductions, Han Jiangxue was curt.

“Understood…”

_{Han Xiling selected a cup for the third time and then rinsed it with hot water. He poured out a cup of tea and tossed that out before pouring out a second. When he was done, he took this third attempt and presented it to the man before him.}
“And your tea was rather unpleasant to drink, so practice properly from now on.”

_{“Understood.”}“Hello, Uncle Wu. Hello, Aunty Wu.” Just as Han Xiling was about to bow to the old couple, Hang Jiangxue grabbed him by the collar and kicked him hаrd behind the knees.

“Understood.”

_{Like this, Aunty Wu carefully taught Han Xiling the art of making tea. It took most of the day before they were finished, and Han Xiling again returned to the hall carrying that teapot in his hands.}“These are Uncle and Aunty Wu. Uncle Wu is in charge of the tough manual chores, and Aunty Wu is in charge of the cooking and cleaning.” Even in his introductions, Han Jiangxue was curt.

Like this, Aunty Wu carefully taught Han Xiling the art of making tea. It took most of the day before they were finished, and Han Xiling again returned to the hall carrying that teapot in his hands.

_{Han Xiling stared at the broken pieces strewn across the floor, his thoughts barely registering the complaint sent his way. That was such a pretty cup. It must’ve cost a pretty penny, too. I reckon just it alone could’ve been enough to pay for my senior brothers’ breakfast many times over. What an absolute shame.}
From behind his departing back, a string of mocking laughter echoed, making him clench his fists so tіghtly they almost bled.

“Greetings, young master (shao zhu)!” It was now time for the old couple to bow and give Han Xiling their greetings.

_{To this, Han Xiling could only sputter out an “Oh.” How was he supposed to know such a thing? He was a boy who spent his life fighting for a drink of water, so how would he ever have the fortune to learn the proper way of preparing tea?}On an eight immortals table, a set of teacups and a teapot were prearranged. Han Xiling placed his hand on the teapot, still infused with heat. Under the assumption it was left there by Aunty Wu, he picked up the pot and poured out some tea.

_{Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.}
Han Jiangxue! Just you wait, you neurotic bastard. I’ll show you one day. Just you wait.

Within this time, Han Xiling’s heart hung in his throat, his palms a sweaty mess from nerves.

_{“Goodness… it seems the master’s complex has indeed reared its head again.” The old woman caressed Han Xiling’s head. “Do not be sad, young master. Master doesn’t mean anything by it. Master just has a habit of toying with others when he has nothing else to do. So please do not take it to heart.”}But he spent no time lingering on such thoughts; after all, it was all the same to him. That person was a nobleman, and he was nothing but an orphan boy. For a person like him, being adopted was itself a great blessing, so how could he dare expect to also be pampered like a true son of a nobleman?

_{Ham Xiling poured tea into one of those pretty cups and presented it to his adoptive father with both hands. “{Your} tea.”}Han Xiling was embarrassed by the act, his flυstered self unknowing of what to do.

Ham Xiling poured tea into one of those pretty cups and presented it to his adoptive father with both hands. “Your tea.”

_{Han Jingxue had made his way to the orphanage on a single horse, so it was only natural that Han Xiling would ride this one horse with him on the journey from the east to the west.}Neurotic, arrogant, conceited son-of-a-bitch! You self-important lunatic!

Han Jingxue had made his way to the orphanage on a single horse, so it was only natural that Han Xiling would ride this one horse with him on the journey from the east to the west.

_{It was Han Xiling’s first time truly entering the western city due to the strict hierarchical system his country enforced. As it was, any child from the eastern region who dared enter the west without authorisation would be arrested and beaten. No one would so much as at an eye if they also ended up dead.}He told the old woman about what happened. She breathed out a sigh upon hearing about the shattered cup. Looking at Han Xiling, she then said sincerely, “Young master, from now on, whenever the master requests such tasks, please come ask me. Do you understand? The master has many rules, and if they are not followed, he will be furious.”

Author's Note:

N/A

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Updated every Saturday. Raws: Kobo

Adoptive Father: C01-2

Chapter 1.2: Han Xiling

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