Adoptive Father: C03-1

Chapter 3.1: Exposed

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

_{The colour drained from Han Jiangxue’s face in an instant, and the bowl of soup was flung to the table where it spilt. Getting up, he turned and strutted towards the door, his voice furious as he spat, “If anyone dares say that crap to you again, you should beat the life out of them until they understand what a man is, you hear!”}
Han Xiling struggled to tear his eyes open due to the sheer pain his pounding head exuded. Thankfully, the scene that met him after he did made him realise he was back home.

The colour drained from Han Jiangxue’s face in an instant, and the bowl of soup was flung to the table where it spilt. Getting up, he turned and strutted towards the door, his voice furious as he spat, “If anyone dares say that crap to you again, you should beat the life out of them until they understand what a man is, you hear!”

_{But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!}Han Xiling recounted everything that happened with his foster father earlier to Aunty Wu, who then took hold of his arm. The old woman looked his arm over before saying with a smile, “Look, young master, you already have a lot of hair; it just hasn’t grown out as yet, is all. It’s fine, but look how dense it is already. I can assure you it will grow to be more formidable than theirs in the future.”

But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!

_☆☆☆“Shush!” Aunty Wu hurriedly blocked Han Xiling’s mouth with her hand before explaining in a whisper, “Do not speak of such things so recklessly! This is another taboo of Master’s! Even now, he’s already angry enough to lose control of his breath!”

☆☆☆

As a result, Han Xiling rolled up his sleeves and showed him as he explained. “I noticed that everyone there is really strong, and the ones with super thіck body hair seem to be highly respected. But… but then they made fun of me for not having any. They called me a naked little piglet.”

_{“Yes, of course! Because your body will be fully nourished, it will make you look more manly indeed.”}That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: Thank god! I’m still alive.

“Yes, of course! Because your body will be fully nourished, it will make you look more manly indeed.”

_{Han Xiling struggled to tear his eyes open due to the sheer pain his pounding head exuded. Thankfully, the scene that met him after he did made him realise he was back home.}
That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: Thank god! I’m still alive.

Han Xiling struggled to tear his eyes open due to the sheer pain his pounding head exuded. Thankfully, the scene that met him after he did made him realise he was back home.

_{“Yes, of course! Because your body will be fully nourished, it will make you look more manly indeed.”}Shui Xian’s gaze left Han Xiling to sweep over Diandian like a gust of wind over a lake’s surface as if it couldn’t dare linger in place for too long. His arrogant glare again crashed onto Han Xiling, his words dripping with malice, “The sight of you just pisses me off.”

“Yes, of course! Because your body will be fully nourished, it will make you look more manly indeed.”

_{The sight of the meal stunned him for a while, but he still sat down, hunched over, and began eating. While munching on the dirty print-covered bun and head, a gentle voice sounded beside his ear. “What’s your name?”}
Having noticed him wake up, Han Jiangxue pulled away the hand he had rested on Han Xiling’s forehead before he sneered, “Idiot! You really are an utter fool!”

The sight of the meal stunned him for a while, but he still sat down, hunched over, and began eating. While munching on the dirty print-covered bun and head, a gentle voice sounded beside his ear. “What’s your name?”

_{Seeing the raging aura surrounding him as he spoke, Han Xiling didn’t dare so much as twitch.}
Originally, Han Xiling wanted to cry, but after hearing the insults spat his way, those tears turned to anger, and his furious gaze was directed at the man before him.

Seeing the raging aura surrounding him as he spoke, Han Xiling didn’t dare so much as twitch.

_{Han Xiling struggled to tear his eyes open due to the sheer pain his pounding head exuded. Thankfully, the scene that met him after he did made him realise he was back home.}Seeing the raging aura surrounding him as he spoke, Han Xiling didn’t dare so much as twitch.

Han Xiling struggled to tear his eyes open due to the sheer pain his pounding head exuded. Thankfully, the scene that met him after he did made him realise he was back home.

_{“Anyhow, so long as you eat well, you will surely grow tall and strong in the future, so do not worry, young master,” Aunty Wu added with a smile.}That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: Thank god! I’m still alive.

“Anyhow, so long as you eat well, you will surely grow tall and strong in the future, so do not worry, young master,” Aunty Wu added with a smile.

_{Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. {Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?}}All the other senior brothers in the food hall dropped their bowls and chopsticks and then made their way outside. It was rare to have such a gripping fight to watch after all, so it was natural for them to not pass up the chance.

Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?

_{This one sentence was all it took to soften Han Xiling’s heart and make him shed a few tears in self-pity. It wasn’t until Aunty Wu arrived a short while later with a bowl of chicken soup that his falling tears finally stopped.}
“Haa… New kids like you are always the ones bullied.” Han Jiangxue chuckled while using a finger to poke Han Xiling’s cheek.

This one sentence was all it took to soften Han Xiling’s heart and make him shed a few tears in self-pity. It wasn’t until Aunty Wu arrived a short while later with a bowl of chicken soup that his falling tears finally stopped.

_{That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: {Thank god! I’m still alive.}}Chapter 3.1: Exposed

That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: Thank god! I’m still alive.

_{Han Xiling turned beet-red at those words, while his heart seemed to thunder within his chеst.}Seeing the raging aura surrounding him as he spoke, Han Xiling didn’t dare so much as twitch.

Han Xiling turned beet-red at those words, while his heart seemed to thunder within his chеst.

_{When Han Xiling arrived at Qingmiao the following day for class, every student there stared at him coldly.}“Haa… New kids like you are always the ones bullied.” Han Jiangxue chuckled while using a finger to poke Han Xiling’s cheek.

When Han Xiling arrived at Qingmiao the following day for class, every student there stared at him coldly.

_{{That guy looks like he's a delicate person and does not at all seem to be as thіck-skinned as myself. So if I thought the torture from that place was unbearable, wouldn’t he find it even more saddening?}}Diandian returned to the seat opposite Han Xiling, his dimpled smile returning. “I like you.”

That guy looks like he's a delicate person and does not at all seem to be as thіck-skinned as myself. So if I thought the torture from that place was unbearable, wouldn’t he find it even more saddening?

_{“Oh…” Han Xiling’s eyes widened in realisation, his next words reserved for his thoughts. That guy is seriously slim, and his skin is as fair, supple, and smooth as tofu, so… how did someone like him make out in an academy like this? Did he… also get bullied like I have?}
This one sentence was all it took to soften Han Xiling’s heart and make him shed a few tears in self-pity. It wasn’t until Aunty Wu arrived a short while later with a bowl of chicken soup that his falling tears finally stopped.

“Oh…” Han Xiling’s eyes widened in realisation, his next words reserved for his thoughts. That guy is seriously slim, and his skin is as fair, supple, and smooth as tofu, so… how did someone like him make out in an academy like this? Did he… also get bullied like I have?

_{“Yes, of course! Because your body will be fully nourished, it will make you look more manly indeed.”}Having noticed him wake up, Han Jiangxue pulled away the hand he had rested on Han Xiling’s forehead before he sneered, “Idiot! You really are an utter fool!”

“Yes, of course! Because your body will be fully nourished, it will make you look more manly indeed.”

_{Han Xiling struggled to tear his eyes open due to the sheer pain his pounding head exuded. Thankfully, the scene that met him after he did made him realise he was back home.}“Can we be friends?” Xuanyuan Diandian’s sparkling eyes stared straight at Han Xiling’s like a fawn’s.

Han Xiling struggled to tear his eyes open due to the sheer pain his pounding head exuded. Thankfully, the scene that met him after he did made him realise he was back home.

_{The sight of the meal stunned him for a while, but he still sat down, hunched over, and began eating. While munching on the dirty print-covered bun and head, a gentle voice sounded beside his ear. “What’s your name?”}The sigh leaving Diandian clearly displayed his disappointment. “They said you were also hairless, so I thought I finally had an ally here. But…”

_{Compared to Han Xiling’s, it was a difference as stark as day and night, as black versus white, as thіck versus thin—as a broken clay pot is to high-end porcelain.}
“Drink. You need to take care of your health.” Han Jiangxue raised a spoon of the soup towards Han Xiling’s lips to feed him.

Compared to Han Xiling’s, it was a difference as stark as day and night, as black versus white, as thіck versus thin—as a broken clay pot is to high-end porcelain.

_{As a result, Han Xiling rolled up his sleeves and showed him as he explained. “I noticed that everyone there is really strong, and the ones with super thіck body hair seem to be highly respected. But… but then they made fun of me for not having any. They called me a naked little piglet.”}But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!

_{But before Han Xiling could wake from his dreams of spring, a heavy punch descended upon him, and a sharp pain rang out from his back. As he sputtered out a muffled groan, he struggled to his feet. Turning around, he saw a fierce-looking guy behind him.}That guy looks like he's a delicate person and does not at all seem to be as thіck-skinned as myself. So if I thought the torture from that place was unbearable, wouldn’t he find it even more saddening?

But before Han Xiling could wake from his dreams of spring, a heavy punch descended upon him, and a sharp pain rang out from his back. As he sputtered out a muffled groan, he struggled to his feet. Turning around, he saw a fierce-looking guy behind him.

_{That guy looks like he's a delicate person and does not at all seem to be as thіck-skinned as myself. So if I thought the torture from that place was unbearable, wouldn’t he find it even more saddening?}
Pure disbelief was the only thing on Han Xiling’s face as he stared at the one he never expected to treat him so tenderly.

_{When the fairy doll smiled, two dimples appeared at each corner of his lips, a sight that instantly made a person's heart all mushy and sweet. “I was sick yesterday, so I couldn't come to class, so this is our first time meeting. Hi, my name is Xuanyuan Diandian. What’s yours?”}Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.

When the fairy doll smiled, two dimples appeared at each corner of his lips, a sight that instantly made a person's heart all mushy and sweet. “I was sick yesterday, so I couldn't come to class, so this is our first time meeting. Hi, my name is Xuanyuan Diandian. What’s yours?”

_{At lunch, he sat at his assigned table, one located in the furthest corner, with a fingerprint-covered steamed bun beside a bowl with a fish head lying atop it.}But he didn’t want to refuse the boy before him, so he just allowed him to have his way.

At lunch, he sat at his assigned table, one located in the furthest corner, with a fingerprint-covered steamed bun beside a bowl with a fish head lying atop it.

_{Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, {You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!}}The sigh leaving Diandian clearly displayed his disappointment. “They said you were also hairless, so I thought I finally had an ally here. But…”

Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!

_{So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!}“Of course! I guarantee it. I will certainly do my best to make sure you grow as strong as a mighty oak!”

So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!

_{Han Xiling quickly opened his mouth after seeing this; another relieved sigh was released in his heart.}
“I said to drink it! What the hell are you gawking at?” As usual, this gentleness of Han Jiangxue’s couldn’t last for longer than a moment; it was gone in just the blink of an eye.

Han Xiling quickly opened his mouth after seeing this; another relieved sigh was released in his heart.

_{This one sentence was all it took to soften Han Xiling’s heart and make him shed a few tears in self-pity. It wasn’t until Aunty Wu arrived a short while later with a bowl of chicken soup that his falling tears finally stopped.}Han Xiling, however, was in high spirits. He happily followed the headmaster’s instructions, whether it be running laps, stretching their legs, or swaying their necks.

_{Note: Shui Xian’s name is (Water String), the string of a musical instrument.}
Han Xiling quickly opened his mouth after seeing this; another relieved sigh was released in his heart.

Note: Shui Xian’s name is (Water String), the string of a musical instrument.

_{The colour drained from Han Jiangxue’s face in an instant, and the bowl of soup was flung to the table where it spilt. Getting up, he turned and strutted towards the door, his voice furious as he spat, “If anyone dares say that crap to you again, you should beat the life out of them until they understand what a man is, you hear!”}Having noticed him wake up, Han Jiangxue pulled away the hand he had rested on Han Xiling’s forehead before he sneered, “Idiot! You really are an utter fool!”

_{Oh… Han Xiling nodded and followed the older boy to the training grounds. He was already aware that boys can have the simplest reasons for fighting. If there were words spoken that were not liked, it was enough to start a bloody scuffle. This was nothing foreign to him back at the Youmiao academy—it was rather common, in fact.}
Now that’s more like him! Thank heavens.

Oh… Han Xiling nodded and followed the older boy to the training grounds. He was already aware that boys can have the simplest reasons for fighting. If there were words spoken that were not liked, it was enough to start a bloody scuffle. This was nothing foreign to him back at the Youmiao academy—it was rather common, in fact.

_{Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.}But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!

Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.

_{Diandian returned to the seat opposite Han Xiling, his dimpled smile returning. “I like you.”}“According to what I have heard from Uncle Bo, it is something immensely important among swordsmen. It seems that if a man is fair and smooth in appearance, others would perceive him to be lacking in masculinity—even if he possesses skills in the art of the sword, he would be looked down upon by his peers.” A sigh left Aunty Wu as she said those words, as though she had recalled a sad memory.

Diandian returned to the seat opposite Han Xiling, his dimpled smile returning. “I like you.”

_{So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!}It was an especially pleasant-sounding name, but most people don’t seem to reflect their names, unfortunately.

So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!

_{Pure disbelief was the only thing on Han Xiling’s face as he stared at the one he never expected to treat him so tenderly.}
After accepting a couple more spoonfuls of soup, Han Xiling finally recalled what happened at Qingmiao and asked, “Han… I mean, Father, do you know what the thing about body hair is about?”

Pure disbelief was the only thing on Han Xiling’s face as he stared at the one he never expected to treat him so tenderly.

_{After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.}Diandian’s arms were as pink and tender as his face—and just as smooth as a baby’s.

After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.

_{Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.}“Of course! I guarantee it. I will certainly do my best to make sure you grow as strong as a mighty oak!”

Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.

_{Chapter 3.1: Exposed}
“What?” Han Jiangxie replied, not understanding what was the point of his question.

Chapter 3.1: Exposed

_{Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.}“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.

Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.

_{Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, {You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!}}Note: Shui Xian’s name is (Water String), the string of a musical instrument.

Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!

_{“{Haa…} New kids like you are always the ones bullied.” Han Jiangxue chuckled while using a finger to poke Han Xiling’s cheek.}Han Xiling felt a sharp pang through his chеst at the thought.

“Haa… New kids like you are always the ones bullied.” Han Jiangxue chuckled while using a finger to poke Han Xiling’s cheek.

_{Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.}
As a result, Han Xiling rolled up his sleeves and showed him as he explained. “I noticed that everyone there is really strong, and the ones with super thіck body hair seem to be highly respected. But… but then they made fun of me for not having any. They called me a naked little piglet.”

Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.

_{“Of course! I guarantee it. I will certainly do my best to make sure you grow as strong as a mighty oak!”}Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?

“Of course! I guarantee it. I will certainly do my best to make sure you grow as strong as a mighty oak!”

_{When Han Xiling arrived at Qingmiao the following day for class, every student there stared at him coldly.}
The colour drained from Han Jiangxue’s face in an instant, and the bowl of soup was flung to the table where it spilt. Getting up, he turned and strutted towards the door, his voice furious as he spat, “If anyone dares say that crap to you again, you should beat the life out of them until they understand what a man is, you hear!”

When Han Xiling arrived at Qingmiao the following day for class, every student there stared at him coldly.

_{Now that’s more like him! Thank heavens.}
Seeing the raging aura surrounding him as he spoke, Han Xiling didn’t dare so much as twitch.

Now that’s more like him! Thank heavens.

_{As a result, Han Xiling rolled up his sleeves and showed him as he explained. “I noticed that everyone there is really strong, and the ones with super thіck body hair seem to be highly respected. But… but then they made fun of me for not having any. They called me a naked little piglet.”}The sight of the meal stunned him for a while, but he still sat down, hunched over, and began eating. While munching on the dirty print-covered bun and head, a gentle voice sounded beside his ear. “What’s your name?”

_{Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.}With such a beauty before him, how could Han Xiling just lie down and easily accept his defeat?

Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.

_{After some time passed, Aunty Wu entered carrying another bowl of chicken soup, concern on her face as she asked, “Young master, did you mention something you shouldn’t have said?”}Shui Xian’s gaze left Han Xiling to sweep over Diandian like a gust of wind over a lake’s surface as if it couldn’t dare linger in place for too long. His arrogant glare again crashed onto Han Xiling, his words dripping with malice, “The sight of you just pisses me off.”

After some time passed, Aunty Wu entered carrying another bowl of chicken soup, concern on her face as she asked, “Young master, did you mention something you shouldn’t have said?”

☆☆☆

_{“I said to drink it! What the hell are you gawking at?” As usual, this gentleness of Han Jiangxue’s couldn’t last for longer than a moment; it was gone in just the blink of an eye.}
After some time passed, Aunty Wu entered carrying another bowl of chicken soup, concern on her face as she asked, “Young master, did you mention something you shouldn’t have said?”

“I said to drink it! What the hell are you gawking at?” As usual, this gentleness of Han Jiangxue’s couldn’t last for longer than a moment; it was gone in just the blink of an eye.

_{Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. {How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!}}When the fairy doll smiled, two dimples appeared at each corner of his lips, a sight that instantly made a person's heart all mushy and sweet. “I was sick yesterday, so I couldn't come to class, so this is our first time meeting. Hi, my name is Xuanyuan Diandian. What’s yours?”

Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!

_{{Oh…} Han Xiling nodded and followed the older boy to the training grounds. He was already aware that boys can have the simplest reasons for fighting. If there were words spoken that were not liked, it was enough to start a bloody scuffle. This was nothing foreign to him back at the Youmiao academy—it was rather common, in fact.}Han Xiling recounted everything that happened with his foster father earlier to Aunty Wu, who then took hold of his arm. The old woman looked his arm over before saying with a smile, “Look, young master, you already have a lot of hair; it just hasn’t grown out as yet, is all. It’s fine, but look how dense it is already. I can assure you it will grow to be more formidable than theirs in the future.”

_{But he didn’t want to refuse the boy before him, so he just allowed him to have his way.}
Han Xiling recounted everything that happened with his foster father earlier to Aunty Wu, who then took hold of his arm. The old woman looked his arm over before saying with a smile, “Look, young master, you already have a lot of hair; it just hasn’t grown out as yet, is all. It’s fine, but look how dense it is already. I can assure you it will grow to be more formidable than theirs in the future.”

But he didn’t want to refuse the boy before him, so he just allowed him to have his way.

_{At lunch, he sat at his assigned table, one located in the furthest corner, with a fingerprint-covered steamed bun beside a bowl with a fish head lying atop it.}Han Xiling felt a sharp pang through his chеst at the thought.

At lunch, he sat at his assigned table, one located in the furthest corner, with a fingerprint-covered steamed bun beside a bowl with a fish head lying atop it.

_{“Yes, of course! Because your body will be fully nourished, it will make you look more manly indeed.”}
“Really?” Han Xiling lifted his arm closer to see if he could make out the dense, long hairs to come. “Is having long, thіck hair that important, Aunty Wu?”

“Yes, of course! Because your body will be fully nourished, it will make you look more manly indeed.”

_{Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, {You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!}}For the remainder of that night, he saw no sign of Han Jiangxue.

Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!

_{Han Xiling was nervous. {Why do the people I keep meeting for the first time keep touching me?}}Chapter 3.1: Exposed

Han Xiling was nervous. Why do the people I keep meeting for the first time keep touching me?

_{Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. {Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?}}“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.

Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?

_☆☆☆
“According to what I have heard from Uncle Bo, it is something immensely important among swordsmen. It seems that if a man is fair and smooth in appearance, others would perceive him to be lacking in masculinity—even if he possesses skills in the art of the sword, he would be looked down upon by his peers.” A sigh left Aunty Wu as she said those words, as though she had recalled a sad memory.

☆☆☆

_{Shui Xian’s gaze left Han Xiling to sweep over Diandian like a gust of wind over a lake’s surface as if it couldn’t dare linger in place for too long. His arrogant glare again crashed onto Han Xiling, his words dripping with malice, “The sight of you just pisses me off.”}As a result, Han Xiling rolled up his sleeves and showed him as he explained. “I noticed that everyone there is really strong, and the ones with super thіck body hair seem to be highly respected. But… but then they made fun of me for not having any. They called me a naked little piglet.”

Shui Xian’s gaze left Han Xiling to sweep over Diandian like a gust of wind over a lake’s surface as if it couldn’t dare linger in place for too long. His arrogant glare again crashed onto Han Xiling, his words dripping with malice, “The sight of you just pisses me off.”

Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!

_{{Aah! Oh my god! Did I… Did my spring finally come?}}“I said to drink it! What the hell are you gawking at?” As usual, this gentleness of Han Jiangxue’s couldn’t last for longer than a moment; it was gone in just the blink of an eye.

Aah! Oh my god! Did I… Did my spring finally come?

_{The sigh leaving Diandian clearly displayed his disappointment. “They said you were also hairless, so I thought I finally had an ally here. But…”}
“What about Father, then? Doesn’t he—”

The sigh leaving Diandian clearly displayed his disappointment. “They said you were also hairless, so I thought I finally had an ally here. But…”

_{{Fortunately, so long as I eat enough meat now, I still have the chance to grow into a big man.}}N/A

Fortunately, so long as I eat enough meat now, I still have the chance to grow into a big man.

_{“Then, can I eat meat every day from now on?”}The sigh leaving Diandian clearly displayed his disappointment. “They said you were also hairless, so I thought I finally had an ally here. But…”

“Then, can I eat meat every day from now on?”

_{That guy’s finger was then jutted towards Han Xiling’s face as he bellowed, “Outside! You and me! One-on-one now!”}
“Shush!” Aunty Wu hurriedly blocked Han Xiling’s mouth with her hand before explaining in a whisper, “Do not speak of such things so recklessly! This is another taboo of Master’s! Even now, he’s already angry enough to lose control of his breath!”

That guy’s finger was then jutted towards Han Xiling’s face as he bellowed, “Outside! You and me! One-on-one now!”

_{Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.}It’s like he’s a living fairy doll…

Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.

_{All the other senior brothers in the food hall dropped their bowls and chopsticks and then made their way outside. It was rare to have such a gripping fight to watch after all, so it was natural for them to not pass up the chance.}Diandian returned to the seat opposite Han Xiling, his dimpled smile returning. “I like you.”

All the other senior brothers in the food hall dropped their bowls and chopsticks and then made their way outside. It was rare to have such a gripping fight to watch after all, so it was natural for them to not pass up the chance.

_{Han Xiling, however, was in high spirits. He happily followed the headmaster’s instructions, whether it be running laps, stretching their legs, or swaying their necks.}Pure disbelief was the only thing on Han Xiling’s face as he stared at the one he never expected to treat him so tenderly.

Han Xiling, however, was in high spirits. He happily followed the headmaster’s instructions, whether it be running laps, stretching their legs, or swaying their necks.

_{As a result, Han Xiling rolled up his sleeves and showed him as he explained. “I noticed that everyone there is really strong, and the ones with super thіck body hair seem to be highly respected. But… but then they made fun of me for not having any. They called me a naked little piglet.”}
“Oh…” Han Xiling’s eyes widened in realisation, his next words reserved for his thoughts. That guy is seriously slim, and his skin is as fair, supple, and smooth as tofu, so… how did someone like him make out in an academy like this? Did he… also get bullied like I have?

_{Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.}Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.

Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.

_☆☆☆Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.

☆☆☆

_{The sigh leaving Diandian clearly displayed his disappointment. “They said you were also hairless, so I thought I finally had an ally here. But…”}Han Xiling recounted everything that happened with his foster father earlier to Aunty Wu, who then took hold of his arm. The old woman looked his arm over before saying with a smile, “Look, young master, you already have a lot of hair; it just hasn’t grown out as yet, is all. It’s fine, but look how dense it is already. I can assure you it will grow to be more formidable than theirs in the future.”

The sigh leaving Diandian clearly displayed his disappointment. “They said you were also hairless, so I thought I finally had an ally here. But…”

_{“According to what I have heard from Uncle Bo, it is something immensely important among swordsmen. It seems that if a man is fair and smooth in appearance, others would perceive him to be lacking in masculinity—even if he possesses skills in the art of the sword, he would be looked down upon by his peers.” A sigh left Aunty Wu as she said those words, as though she had recalled a sad memory.}
That guy looks like he's a delicate person and does not at all seem to be as thіck-skinned as myself. So if I thought the torture from that place was unbearable, wouldn’t he find it even more saddening?

“According to what I have heard from Uncle Bo, it is something immensely important among swordsmen. It seems that if a man is fair and smooth in appearance, others would perceive him to be lacking in masculinity—even if he possesses skills in the art of the sword, he would be looked down upon by his peers.” A sigh left Aunty Wu as she said those words, as though she had recalled a sad memory.

_{Han Xiling lifted his head to find a face that seemed to be carved from a pink jade staring back at him. The features facing him were so pink and tender that it left him stunned.}The sight of the meal stunned him for a while, but he still sat down, hunched over, and began eating. While munching on the dirty print-covered bun and head, a gentle voice sounded beside his ear. “What’s your name?”

Han Xiling lifted his head to find a face that seemed to be carved from a pink jade staring back at him. The features facing him were so pink and tender that it left him stunned. They were like the lotus petals at the start of summer, pale with a light dusting of a rosy blush, and fragrance that was soft and sweet. The bright and sparkling eyes peering down at him were even darker than a fawn’s; his lips were bright red as they were… plump cherries.

_{Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. {Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?}}“Of course! Yes!” Han Xiling replied without a second thought; he also wanted very much to pinch those soft pink cheeks.

Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?

_{Xuanyuan Diandian also followed behind them, but his expression was rather strange. His gaze seemed to linger on Han Xiling. Perhaps he wondered if Han Xiling could win.}
Han Xiling felt a sharp pang through his chеst at the thought.

Xuanyuan Diandian also followed behind them, but his expression was rather strange. His gaze seemed to linger on Han Xiling. Perhaps he wondered if Han Xiling could win.

_{So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!}Note: Shui Xian’s name is (Water String), the string of a musical instrument.

So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!

_{Han Xiling lifted his head to find a face that seemed to be carved from a pink jade staring back at him. The features facing him were so pink and tender that it left him stunned.}That guy looks like he's a delicate person and does not at all seem to be as thіck-skinned as myself. So if I thought the torture from that place was unbearable, wouldn’t he find it even more saddening?

“Why?” An obviously confused Han Xiling asked. There had to be a reason some random classmate challenged him to a duel, and he knew he couldn’t always let himself be at the mercy of others.

_{Shui Xian’s gaze left Han Xiling to sweep over Diandian like a gust of wind over a lake’s surface as if it couldn’t dare linger in place for too long. His arrogant glare again crashed onto Han Xiling, his words dripping with malice, “The sight of you just pisses me off.”}
“Anyhow, so long as you eat well, you will surely grow tall and strong in the future, so do not worry, young master,” Aunty Wu added with a smile.

_{After accepting a couple more spoonfuls of soup, Han Xiling finally recalled what happened at Qingmiao and asked, “Han… I mean, Father, do you know what the thing about body hair is about?”}“Shush!” Aunty Wu hurriedly blocked Han Xiling’s mouth with her hand before explaining in a whisper, “Do not speak of such things so recklessly! This is another taboo of Master’s! Even now, he’s already angry enough to lose control of his breath!”

After accepting a couple more spoonfuls of soup, Han Xiling finally recalled what happened at Qingmiao and asked, “Han… I mean, Father, do you know what the thing about body hair is about?”

_{“Then, can I eat meat every day from now on?”}
“So… does eating more meat mean I really will grow more body hair?” Han Xiling had heard eating more meat made one more masculine, but as the poor orphan he was, he only had a chance to eat meat once a year—twice if he was lucky.

“Then, can I eat meat every day from now on?”

_{Han Xiling was nervous. {Why do the people I keep meeting for the first time keep touching me?}}Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?

Han Xiling was nervous. Why do the people I keep meeting for the first time keep touching me?

_{Han Xiling quickly opened his mouth after seeing this; another relieved sigh was released in his heart.}“Of course! Yes!” Han Xiling replied without a second thought; he also wanted very much to pinch those soft pink cheeks.

Han Xiling quickly opened his mouth after seeing this; another relieved sigh was released in his heart.

_{Han Xiling lifted his head to find a face that seemed to be carved from a pink jade staring back at him. The features facing him were so pink and tender that it left him stunned.}“Of course! I guarantee it. I will certainly do my best to make sure you grow as strong as a mighty oak!”

_{{Aah! Oh my god! Did I… Did my spring finally come?}}With such a beauty before him, how could Han Xiling just lie down and easily accept his defeat?

Aah! Oh my god! Did I… Did my spring finally come?

_{“What about Father, then? Doesn’t he—”}
“Yes, of course! Because your body will be fully nourished, it will make you look more manly indeed.”

“What about Father, then? Doesn’t he—”

_{“Anyhow, so long as you eat well, you will surely grow tall and strong in the future, so do not worry, young master,” Aunty Wu added with a smile.}It’s like he’s a living fairy doll…

“Anyhow, so long as you eat well, you will surely grow tall and strong in the future, so do not worry, young master,” Aunty Wu added with a smile.

_{The colour drained from Han Jiangxue’s face in an instant, and the bowl of soup was flung to the table where it spilt. Getting up, he turned and strutted towards the door, his voice furious as he spat, “If anyone dares say that crap to you again, you should beat the life out of them until they understand what a man is, you hear!”}With all this unfolding, Han Xiling started to wonder if that new adoptive father of his might have actually been his evil star instead of a lucky one. Because in all honest truth, ever since he has met the man, he hasn’t had a single day of peace.

_{Diandian returned to the seat opposite Han Xiling, his dimpled smile returning. “I like you.”}The colour drained from Han Jiangxue’s face in an instant, and the bowl of soup was flung to the table where it spilt. Getting up, he turned and strutted towards the door, his voice furious as he spat, “If anyone dares say that crap to you again, you should beat the life out of them until they understand what a man is, you hear!”

Diandian returned to the seat opposite Han Xiling, his dimpled smile returning. “I like you.”

_{Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, {You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!}}Having noticed him wake up, Han Jiangxue pulled away the hand he had rested on Han Xiling’s forehead before he sneered, “Idiot! You really are an utter fool!”

Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!

_{Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!}
“Of course! I guarantee it. I will certainly do my best to make sure you grow as strong as a mighty oak!”

Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!

_{Seeing the raging aura surrounding him as he spoke, Han Xiling didn’t dare so much as twitch.}So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!

Seeing the raging aura surrounding him as he spoke, Han Xiling didn’t dare so much as twitch.

_{The sight of the meal stunned him for a while, but he still sat down, hunched over, and began eating. While munching on the dirty print-covered bun and head, a gentle voice sounded beside his ear. “What’s your name?”}“Shush!” Aunty Wu hurriedly blocked Han Xiling’s mouth with her hand before explaining in a whisper, “Do not speak of such things so recklessly! This is another taboo of Master’s! Even now, he’s already angry enough to lose control of his breath!”

_{“Of course! I guarantee it. I will certainly do my best to make sure you grow as strong as a mighty oak!”}“Why?” An obviously confused Han Xiling asked. There had to be a reason some random classmate challenged him to a duel, and he knew he couldn’t always let himself be at the mercy of others.

“Of course! I guarantee it. I will certainly do my best to make sure you grow as strong as a mighty oak!”

_{He had a dream that night, one where he grew tall and powerful—he was invincible. He was able to protect Han Jiangxue.}Compared to Han Xiling’s, it was a difference as stark as day and night, as black versus white, as thіck versus thin—as a broken clay pot is to high-end porcelain.

He had a dream that night, one where he grew tall and powerful—he was invincible. He was able to protect Han Jiangxue.

_{Diandian returned to the seat opposite Han Xiling, his dimpled smile returning. “I like you.”}
Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.

Diandian returned to the seat opposite Han Xiling, his dimpled smile returning. “I like you.”

_{Han Xiling turned beet-red at those words, while his heart seemed to thunder within his chеst.}Pure disbelief was the only thing on Han Xiling’s face as he stared at the one he never expected to treat him so tenderly.

Han Xiling turned beet-red at those words, while his heart seemed to thunder within his chеst.

_{“Of course! Yes!” Han Xiling replied without a second thought; he also wanted very much to pinch those soft pink cheeks.}
Fortunately, so long as I eat enough meat now, I still have the chance to grow into a big man.

“Of course! Yes!” Han Xiling replied without a second thought; he also wanted very much to pinch those soft pink cheeks.

_{Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. {How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!}}The sigh leaving Diandian clearly displayed his disappointment. “They said you were also hairless, so I thought I finally had an ally here. But…”

Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!

_{“So… does eating more meat mean I really will grow more body hair?” Han Xiling had heard eating more meat made one more masculine, but as the poor orphan he was, he only had a chance to eat meat once a year—twice if he was lucky.}
Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!

“So… does eating more meat mean I really will grow more body hair?” Han Xiling had heard eating more meat made one more masculine, but as the poor orphan he was, he only had a chance to eat meat once a year—twice if he was lucky.

_{“Can we be friends?” Xuanyuan Diandian’s sparkling eyes stared straight at Han Xiling’s like a fawn’s.}“What about Father, then? Doesn’t he—”

“Can we be friends?” Xuanyuan Diandian’s sparkling eyes stared straight at Han Xiling’s like a fawn’s.

_{Note: Shui Xian’s name is (Water String), the string of a musical instrument.}Seeing his new friend’s dejected action, Ha Xiling patted his shoulder and offered words of comfort, “Are you scared that the others will pick on you? Well, you have nothing to be scared of because I will be right here to help!”

Note: Shui Xian’s name is (Water String), the string of a musical instrument.

_{Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?}
For the remainder of that night, he saw no sign of Han Jiangxue.

Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?

_{It was an especially pleasant-sounding name, but most people don’t seem to reflect their names, unfortunately.}The sight of the meal stunned him for a while, but he still sat down, hunched over, and began eating. While munching on the dirty print-covered bun and head, a gentle voice sounded beside his ear. “What’s your name?”

It was an especially pleasant-sounding name, but most people don’t seem to reflect their names, unfortunately.

_{It was an especially pleasant-sounding name, but most people don’t seem to reflect their names, unfortunately.}
He had a dream that night, one where he grew tall and powerful—he was invincible. He was able to protect Han Jiangxue.

It was an especially pleasant-sounding name, but most people don’t seem to reflect their names, unfortunately.

_{Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. {How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!}}Oh… Han Xiling nodded and followed the older boy to the training grounds. He was already aware that boys can have the simplest reasons for fighting. If there were words spoken that were not liked, it was enough to start a bloody scuffle. This was nothing foreign to him back at the Youmiao academy—it was rather common, in fact.

Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!

☆☆☆

_{Han Xiling turned beet-red at those words, while his heart seemed to thunder within his chеst.}
When Han Xiling arrived at Qingmiao the following day for class, every student there stared at him coldly.

Han Xiling turned beet-red at those words, while his heart seemed to thunder within his chеst.

After accepting a couple more spoonfuls of soup, Han Xiling finally recalled what happened at Qingmiao and asked, “Han… I mean, Father, do you know what the thing about body hair is about?”

_N/ABut before Han Xiling could wake from his dreams of spring, a heavy punch descended upon him, and a sharp pain rang out from his back. As he sputtered out a muffled groan, he struggled to his feet. Turning around, he saw a fierce-looking guy behind him.

N/A

_{Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.}This one sentence was all it took to soften Han Xiling’s heart and make him shed a few tears in self-pity. It wasn’t until Aunty Wu arrived a short while later with a bowl of chicken soup that his falling tears finally stopped.

Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.

_{“Haa… New kids like you are always the ones bullied.” Han Jiangxue chuckled while using a finger to poke Han Xiling’s cheek.}
Han Xiling, however, was in high spirits. He happily followed the headmaster’s instructions, whether it be running laps, stretching their legs, or swaying their necks.

“Haa… New kids like you are always the ones bullied.” Han Jiangxue chuckled while using a finger to poke Han Xiling’s cheek.

_{The colour drained from Han Jiangxue’s face in an instant, and the bowl of soup was flung to the table where it spilt. Getting up, he turned and strutted towards the door, his voice furious as he spat, “If anyone dares say that crap to you again, you should beat the life out of them until they understand what a man is, you hear!”}As a result, Han Xiling rolled up his sleeves and showed him as he explained. “I noticed that everyone there is really strong, and the ones with super thіck body hair seem to be highly respected. But… but then they made fun of me for not having any. They called me a naked little piglet.”

_{After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.}With such a beauty before him, how could Han Xiling just lie down and easily accept his defeat?

After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.

_{After accepting a couple more spoonfuls of soup, Han Xiling finally recalled what happened at Qingmiao and asked, “Han… I mean, Father, do you know what the thing about body hair is about?”}Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?

After accepting a couple more spoonfuls of soup, Han Xiling finally recalled what happened at Qingmiao and asked, “Han… I mean, Father, do you know what the thing about body hair is about?”

_N/A
At lunch, he sat at his assigned table, one located in the furthest corner, with a fingerprint-covered steamed bun beside a bowl with a fish head lying atop it.

N/A

_{Chapter 3.1: Exposed}“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.

Chapter 3.1: Exposed

_{With such a beauty before him, how could Han Xiling just lie down and easily accept his defeat?}“So… does eating more meat mean I really will grow more body hair?” Han Xiling had heard eating more meat made one more masculine, but as the poor orphan he was, he only had a chance to eat meat once a year—twice if he was lucky.

With such a beauty before him, how could Han Xiling just lie down and easily accept his defeat?

_{“Oh…” Han Xiling’s eyes widened in realisation, his next words reserved for his thoughts. {That guy is seriously slim, and his skin is as fair, supple, and smooth as tofu, so… how did someone like him make out in an academy like this? Did he… also get bullied like I have?}}When Han Xiling arrived at Qingmiao the following day for class, every student there stared at him coldly.

_{“Shush!” Aunty Wu hurriedly blocked Han Xiling’s mouth with her hand before explaining in a whisper, “Do not speak of such things so recklessly! This is another taboo of Master’s! Even now, he’s already angry enough to lose control of his breath!”}After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.

“Shush!” Aunty Wu hurriedly blocked Han Xiling’s mouth with her hand before explaining in a whisper, “Do not speak of such things so recklessly! This is another taboo of Master’s! Even now, he’s already angry enough to lose control of his breath!”

_{Han Xiling lifted his head to find a face that seemed to be carved from a pink jade staring back at him. The features facing him were so pink and tender that it left him stunned.}
The sight of the meal stunned him for a while, but he still sat down, hunched over, and began eating. While munching on the dirty print-covered bun and head, a gentle voice sounded beside his ear. “What’s your name?”

_{For the remainder of that night, he saw no sign of Han Jiangxue.}Han Xiling lifted his head to find a face that seemed to be carved from a pink jade staring back at him. The features facing him were so pink and tender that it left him stunned. They were like the lotus petals at the start of summer, pale with a light dusting of a rosy blush, and fragrance that was soft and sweet. The bright and sparkling eyes peering down at him were even darker than a fawn’s; his lips were bright red as they were… plump cherries.

For the remainder of that night, he saw no sign of Han Jiangxue.

_{When Han Xiling arrived at Qingmiao the following day for class, every student there stared at him coldly.}Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?

When Han Xiling arrived at Qingmiao the following day for class, every student there stared at him coldly.

_{“Shush!” Aunty Wu hurriedly blocked Han Xiling’s mouth with her hand before explaining in a whisper, “Do not speak of such things so recklessly! This is another taboo of Master’s! Even now, he’s already angry enough to lose control of his breath!”}After some time passed, Aunty Wu entered carrying another bowl of chicken soup, concern on her face as she asked, “Young master, did you mention something you shouldn’t have said?”

_{Han Xiling felt a sharp pang through his chеst at the thought.}
Han Xiling lifted his head to find a face that seemed to be carved from a pink jade staring back at him. The features facing him were so pink and tender that it left him stunned. They were like the lotus petals at the start of summer, pale with a light dusting of a rosy blush, and fragrance that was soft and sweet. The bright and sparkling eyes peering down at him were even darker than a fawn’s; his lips were bright red as they were… plump cherries.

Han Xiling felt a sharp pang through his chеst at the thought.

_{“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.}With such a beauty before him, how could Han Xiling just lie down and easily accept his defeat?

“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.

_{{Aah! Oh my god! Did I… Did my spring finally come?}}But he didn’t want to refuse the boy before him, so he just allowed him to have his way.

Aah! Oh my god! Did I… Did my spring finally come?

_☆☆☆
It’s like he’s a living fairy doll…

☆☆☆

_{{Oh…} Han Xiling nodded and followed the older boy to the training grounds. He was already aware that boys can have the simplest reasons for fighting. If there were words spoken that were not liked, it was enough to start a bloody scuffle. This was nothing foreign to him back at the Youmiao academy—it was rather common, in fact.}After some time passed, Aunty Wu entered carrying another bowl of chicken soup, concern on her face as she asked, “Young master, did you mention something you shouldn’t have said?”

_{“I said to drink it! What the hell are you gawking at?” As usual, this gentleness of Han Jiangxue’s couldn’t last for longer than a moment; it was gone in just the blink of an eye.}So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!

“I said to drink it! What the hell are you gawking at?” As usual, this gentleness of Han Jiangxue’s couldn’t last for longer than a moment; it was gone in just the blink of an eye.

_{Originally, Han Xiling wanted to cry, but after hearing the insults spat his way, those tears turned to anger, and his furious gaze was directed at the man before him.}
Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!

Originally, Han Xiling wanted to cry, but after hearing the insults spat his way, those tears turned to anger, and his furious gaze was directed at the man before him.

_{Han Xiling turned beet-red at those words, while his heart seemed to thunder within his chеst.}“Then, can I eat meat every day from now on?”

Han Xiling turned beet-red at those words, while his heart seemed to thunder within his chеst.

_{Han Xiling lifted his head to find a face that seemed to be carved from a pink jade staring back at him. The features facing him were so pink and tender that it left him stunned.}Han Xiling quickly opened his mouth after seeing this; another relieved sigh was released in his heart.

_{After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.}
When the fairy doll smiled, two dimples appeared at each corner of his lips, a sight that instantly made a person's heart all mushy and sweet. “I was sick yesterday, so I couldn't come to class, so this is our first time meeting. Hi, my name is Xuanyuan Diandian. What’s yours?”

After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.

_{After some time passed, Aunty Wu entered carrying another bowl of chicken soup, concern on her face as she asked, “Young master, did you mention something you shouldn’t have said?”}☆☆☆

After some time passed, Aunty Wu entered carrying another bowl of chicken soup, concern on her face as she asked, “Young master, did you mention something you shouldn’t have said?”

_{That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: {Thank god! I’m still alive.}}“Yes, of course! Because your body will be fully nourished, it will make you look more manly indeed.”

That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: Thank god! I’m still alive.

_{Fortunately, so long as I eat enough meat now, I still have the chance to grow into a big man.}
“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.

Fortunately, so long as I eat enough meat now, I still have the chance to grow into a big man.

_{For the remainder of that night, he saw no sign of Han Jiangxue.}So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!

For the remainder of that night, he saw no sign of Han Jiangxue.

_{After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.}All the other senior brothers in the food hall dropped their bowls and chopsticks and then made their way outside. It was rare to have such a gripping fight to watch after all, so it was natural for them to not pass up the chance.

After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.

_{At lunch, he sat at his assigned table, one located in the furthest corner, with a fingerprint-covered steamed bun beside a bowl with a fish head lying atop it.}Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!

At lunch, he sat at his assigned table, one located in the furthest corner, with a fingerprint-covered steamed bun beside a bowl with a fish head lying atop it.

_{Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!}
“Can we be friends?” Xuanyuan Diandian’s sparkling eyes stared straight at Han Xiling’s like a fawn’s.

Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!

_{“What about Father, then? Doesn’t he—”}“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.

“What about Father, then? Doesn’t he—”

_{Originally, Han Xiling wanted to cry, but after hearing the insults spat his way, those tears turned to anger, and his furious gaze was directed at the man before him.}Seeing the raging aura surrounding him as he spoke, Han Xiling didn’t dare so much as twitch.

Originally, Han Xiling wanted to cry, but after hearing the insults spat his way, those tears turned to anger, and his furious gaze was directed at the man before him.

_{Han Xiling, however, was in high spirits. He happily followed the headmaster’s instructions, whether it be running laps, stretching their legs, or swaying their necks.}But before Han Xiling could wake from his dreams of spring, a heavy punch descended upon him, and a sharp pain rang out from his back. As he sputtered out a muffled groan, he struggled to his feet. Turning around, he saw a fierce-looking guy behind him.

Han Xiling, however, was in high spirits. He happily followed the headmaster’s instructions, whether it be running laps, stretching their legs, or swaying their necks.

_{Han Xiling quickly opened his mouth after seeing this; another relieved sigh was released in his heart.}“According to what I have heard from Uncle Bo, it is something immensely important among swordsmen. It seems that if a man is fair and smooth in appearance, others would perceive him to be lacking in masculinity—even if he possesses skills in the art of the sword, he would be looked down upon by his peers.” A sigh left Aunty Wu as she said those words, as though she had recalled a sad memory.

Han Xiling quickly opened his mouth after seeing this; another relieved sigh was released in his heart.

_{Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.}
“Of course! Yes!” Han Xiling replied without a second thought; he also wanted very much to pinch those soft pink cheeks.

Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.

_{He had a dream that night, one where he grew tall and powerful—he was invincible. He was able to protect Han Jiangxue.}“So… does eating more meat mean I really will grow more body hair?” Han Xiling had heard eating more meat made one more masculine, but as the poor orphan he was, he only had a chance to eat meat once a year—twice if he was lucky.

He had a dream that night, one where he grew tall and powerful—he was invincible. He was able to protect Han Jiangxue.

_{Diandian returned to the seat opposite Han Xiling, his dimpled smile returning. “I like you.”}Having noticed him wake up, Han Jiangxue pulled away the hand he had rested on Han Xiling’s forehead before he sneered, “Idiot! You really are an utter fool!”

Diandian returned to the seat opposite Han Xiling, his dimpled smile returning. “I like you.”

_{“What?” Han Jiangxie replied, not understanding what was the point of his question.}
Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.

“What?” Han Jiangxie replied, not understanding what was the point of his question.

_{With all this unfolding, Han Xiling started to wonder if that new adoptive father of his might have actually been his evil star instead of a lucky one. Because in all honest truth, ever since he has met the man, he hasn’t had a single day of peace.}
Han Xiling was nervous. Why do the people I keep meeting for the first time keep touching me?

With all this unfolding, Han Xiling started to wonder if that new adoptive father of his might have actually been his evil star instead of a lucky one. Because in all honest truth, ever since he has met the man, he hasn’t had a single day of peace.

“Why?” An obviously confused Han Xiling asked. There had to be a reason some random classmate challenged him to a duel, and he knew he couldn’t always let himself be at the mercy of others.

_{So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!}
But he didn’t want to refuse the boy before him, so he just allowed him to have his way.

So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!

_{“Shush!” Aunty Wu hurriedly blocked Han Xiling’s mouth with her hand before explaining in a whisper, “Do not speak of such things so recklessly! This is another taboo of Master’s! Even now, he’s already angry enough to lose control of his breath!”}Han Xiling lifted his head to find a face that seemed to be carved from a pink jade staring back at him. The features facing him were so pink and tender that it left him stunned. They were like the lotus petals at the start of summer, pale with a light dusting of a rosy blush, and fragrance that was soft and sweet. The bright and sparkling eyes peering down at him were even darker than a fawn’s; his lips were bright red as they were… plump cherries.

_{“Can we be friends?” Xuanyuan Diandian’s sparkling eyes stared straight at Han Xiling’s like a fawn’s.}
After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.

“Can we be friends?” Xuanyuan Diandian’s sparkling eyes stared straight at Han Xiling’s like a fawn’s.

_{Han Xiling, however, was in high spirits. He happily followed the headmaster’s instructions, whether it be running laps, stretching their legs, or swaying their necks.}“Can we be friends?” Xuanyuan Diandian’s sparkling eyes stared straight at Han Xiling’s like a fawn’s.

Han Xiling, however, was in high spirits. He happily followed the headmaster’s instructions, whether it be running laps, stretching their legs, or swaying their necks.

_{Diandian’s arms were as pink and tender as his face—and just as smooth as a baby’s.}“What?” Han Jiangxie replied, not understanding what was the point of his question.

Diandian’s arms were as pink and tender as his face—and just as smooth as a baby’s.

_{“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.}But he didn’t want to refuse the boy before him, so he just allowed him to have his way.

“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.

_{“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.}Now that’s more like him! Thank heavens.

“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.

_{“Anyhow, so long as you eat well, you will surely grow tall and strong in the future, so do not worry, young master,” Aunty Wu added with a smile.}
Diandian’s arms were as pink and tender as his face—and just as smooth as a baby’s.

“Anyhow, so long as you eat well, you will surely grow tall and strong in the future, so do not worry, young master,” Aunty Wu added with a smile.

_{The sigh leaving Diandian clearly displayed his disappointment. “They said you were also hairless, so I thought I finally had an ally here. But…”}“Really?” Han Xiling lifted his arm closer to see if he could make out the dense, long hairs to come. “Is having long, thіck hair that important, Aunty Wu?”

The sigh leaving Diandian clearly displayed his disappointment. “They said you were also hairless, so I thought I finally had an ally here. But…”

_{“Can we be friends?” Xuanyuan Diandian’s sparkling eyes stared straight at Han Xiling’s like a fawn’s.}“Of course! I guarantee it. I will certainly do my best to make sure you grow as strong as a mighty oak!”

“Can we be friends?” Xuanyuan Diandian’s sparkling eyes stared straight at Han Xiling’s like a fawn’s.

_{Seeing his new friend’s dejected action, Ha Xiling patted his shoulder and offered words of comfort, “Are you scared that the others will pick on you? Well, you have nothing to be scared of because I will be right here to help!”}
Compared to Han Xiling’s, it was a difference as stark as day and night, as black versus white, as thіck versus thin—as a broken clay pot is to high-end porcelain.

Seeing his new friend’s dejected action, Ha Xiling patted his shoulder and offered words of comfort, “Are you scared that the others will pick on you? Well, you have nothing to be scared of because I will be right here to help!”

_{“Of course! Yes!” Han Xiling replied without a second thought; he also wanted very much to pinch those soft pink cheeks.}Han Xiling quickly opened his mouth after seeing this; another relieved sigh was released in his heart.

“Of course! Yes!” Han Xiling replied without a second thought; he also wanted very much to pinch those soft pink cheeks.

_{After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.}“So… does eating more meat mean I really will grow more body hair?” Han Xiling had heard eating more meat made one more masculine, but as the poor orphan he was, he only had a chance to eat meat once a year—twice if he was lucky.

After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.

_{But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!}The sight of the meal stunned him for a while, but he still sat down, hunched over, and began eating. While munching on the dirty print-covered bun and head, a gentle voice sounded beside his ear. “What’s your name?”

But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!

_{{Fortunately, so long as I eat enough meat now, I still have the chance to grow into a big man.}}“Haa… New kids like you are always the ones bullied.” Han Jiangxue chuckled while using a finger to poke Han Xiling’s cheek.

Fortunately, so long as I eat enough meat now, I still have the chance to grow into a big man.

_{At lunch, he sat at his assigned table, one located in the furthest corner, with a fingerprint-covered steamed bun beside a bowl with a fish head lying atop it.}
The sigh leaving Diandian clearly displayed his disappointment. “They said you were also hairless, so I thought I finally had an ally here. But…”

At lunch, he sat at his assigned table, one located in the furthest corner, with a fingerprint-covered steamed bun beside a bowl with a fish head lying atop it.

_☆☆☆☆☆☆

☆☆☆

_{This one sentence was all it took to soften Han Xiling’s heart and make him shed a few tears in self-pity. It wasn’t until Aunty Wu arrived a short while later with a bowl of chicken soup that his falling tears finally stopped.}Diandian returned to the seat opposite Han Xiling, his dimpled smile returning. “I like you.”

_{Xuanyuan Diandian also followed behind them, but his expression was rather strange. His gaze seemed to linger on Han Xiling. Perhaps he wondered if Han Xiling could win.}☆☆☆

Xuanyuan Diandian also followed behind them, but his expression was rather strange. His gaze seemed to linger on Han Xiling. Perhaps he wondered if Han Xiling could win.

_{Han Xiling quickly opened his mouth after seeing this; another relieved sigh was released in his heart.}Fortunately, so long as I eat enough meat now, I still have the chance to grow into a big man.

Han Xiling quickly opened his mouth after seeing this; another relieved sigh was released in his heart.

_{When the fairy doll smiled, two dimples appeared at each corner of his lips, a sight that instantly made a person's heart all mushy and sweet. “I was sick yesterday, so I couldn't come to class, so this is our first time meeting. Hi, my name is Xuanyuan Diandian. What’s yours?”}
But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!

_{But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!}Chapter 3.1: Exposed

But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!

_{It was an especially pleasant-sounding name, but most people don’t seem to reflect their names, unfortunately.}☆☆☆

It was an especially pleasant-sounding name, but most people don’t seem to reflect their names, unfortunately.

_{“According to what I have heard from Uncle Bo, it is something immensely important among swordsmen. It seems that if a man is fair and smooth in appearance, others would perceive him to be lacking in masculinity—even if he possesses skills in the art of the sword, he would be looked down upon by his peers.” A sigh left Aunty Wu as she said those words, as though she had recalled a sad memory.}“Of course! I guarantee it. I will certainly do my best to make sure you grow as strong as a mighty oak!”

_{Han Xiling, however, was in high spirits. He happily followed the headmaster’s instructions, whether it be running laps, stretching their legs, or swaying their necks.}
So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!

Han Xiling, however, was in high spirits. He happily followed the headmaster’s instructions, whether it be running laps, stretching their legs, or swaying their necks.

_{The sight of the meal stunned him for a while, but he still sat down, hunched over, and began eating. While munching on the dirty print-covered bun and head, a gentle voice sounded beside his ear. “What’s your name?”}Seeing his new friend’s dejected action, Ha Xiling patted his shoulder and offered words of comfort, “Are you scared that the others will pick on you? Well, you have nothing to be scared of because I will be right here to help!”

_{All the other senior brothers in the food hall dropped their bowls and chopsticks and then made their way outside. It was rare to have such a gripping fight to watch after all, so it was natural for them to not pass up the chance.}
Seeing his new friend’s dejected action, Ha Xiling patted his shoulder and offered words of comfort, “Are you scared that the others will pick on you? Well, you have nothing to be scared of because I will be right here to help!”

_{“What?” Han Jiangxie replied, not understanding what was the point of his question.}It was an especially pleasant-sounding name, but most people don’t seem to reflect their names, unfortunately.

“What?” Han Jiangxie replied, not understanding what was the point of his question.

_{After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.}But before Han Xiling could wake from his dreams of spring, a heavy punch descended upon him, and a sharp pain rang out from his back. As he sputtered out a muffled groan, he struggled to his feet. Turning around, he saw a fierce-looking guy behind him.

After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.

_☆☆☆Han Xiling quickly opened his mouth after seeing this; another relieved sigh was released in his heart.

☆☆☆

_{Han Xiling recounted everything that happened with his foster father earlier to Aunty Wu, who then took hold of his arm. The old woman looked his arm over before saying with a smile, “Look, young master, you already have a lot of hair; it just hasn’t grown out as yet, is all.}
Diandian returned to the seat opposite Han Xiling, his dimpled smile returning. “I like you.”

Han Xiling recounted everything that happened with his foster father earlier to Aunty Wu, who then took hold of his arm. The old woman looked his arm over before saying with a smile, “Look, young master, you already have a lot of hair; it just hasn’t grown out as yet, is all. It’s fine, but look how dense it is already. I can assure you it will grow to be more formidable than theirs in the future.”

_{All the other senior brothers in the food hall dropped their bowls and chopsticks and then made their way outside. It was rare to have such a gripping fight to watch after all, so it was natural for them to not pass up the chance.}After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.

_{When Han Xiling arrived at Qingmiao the following day for class, every student there stared at him coldly.}Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.

When Han Xiling arrived at Qingmiao the following day for class, every student there stared at him coldly.

_{Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.}After some time passed, Aunty Wu entered carrying another bowl of chicken soup, concern on her face as she asked, “Young master, did you mention something you shouldn’t have said?”

Han Xiling nodded happily at the affirmation, feeling a bit relieved.

After some time passed, Aunty Wu entered carrying another bowl of chicken soup, concern on her face as she asked, “Young master, did you mention something you shouldn’t have said?”

_{Originally, Han Xiling wanted to cry, but after hearing the insults spat his way, those tears turned to anger, and his furious gaze was directed at the man before him.}Han Xiling lifted his head to find a face that seemed to be carved from a pink jade staring back at him. The features facing him were so pink and tender that it left him stunned. They were like the lotus petals at the start of summer, pale with a light dusting of a rosy blush, and fragrance that was soft and sweet. The bright and sparkling eyes peering down at him were even darker than a fawn’s; his lips were bright red as they were… plump cherries.

Originally, Han Xiling wanted to cry, but after hearing the insults spat his way, those tears turned to anger, and his furious gaze was directed at the man before him.

_{Originally, Han Xiling wanted to cry, but after hearing the insults spat his way, those tears turned to anger, and his furious gaze was directed at the man before him.}Compared to Han Xiling’s, it was a difference as stark as day and night, as black versus white, as thіck versus thin—as a broken clay pot is to high-end porcelain.

Originally, Han Xiling wanted to cry, but after hearing the insults spat his way, those tears turned to anger, and his furious gaze was directed at the man before him.

_{He had a dream that night, one where he grew tall and powerful—he was invincible. He was able to protect Han Jiangxue.}
Aah! Oh my god! Did I… Did my spring finally come?

He had a dream that night, one where he grew tall and powerful—he was invincible. He was able to protect Han Jiangxue.

_{Han Xiling felt a sharp pang through his chеst at the thought.}Xuanyuan Diandian also followed behind them, but his expression was rather strange. His gaze seemed to linger on Han Xiling. Perhaps he wondered if Han Xiling could win.

Han Xiling felt a sharp pang through his chеst at the thought.

_{That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: Thank god! I’m still alive.}
But before Han Xiling could wake from his dreams of spring, a heavy punch descended upon him, and a sharp pain rang out from his back. As he sputtered out a muffled groan, he struggled to his feet. Turning around, he saw a fierce-looking guy behind him.

That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: Thank god! I’m still alive.

_{“Drink. You need to take care of your health.” Han Jiangxue raised a spoon of the soup towards Han Xiling’s lips to feed him.}Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?

“Drink. You need to take care of your health.” Han Jiangxue raised a spoon of the soup towards Han Xiling’s lips to feed him.

_{Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, {You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!}}Compared to Han Xiling’s, it was a difference as stark as day and night, as black versus white, as thіck versus thin—as a broken clay pot is to high-end porcelain.

Before he drifted off, Han Xiling couldn’t stop himself from tugging at the fine hairs on his arm and cursing, You little… When the hell are you guys going to sprout up? Grow already, dammit?!

_{With such a beauty before him, how could Han Xiling just lie down and easily accept his defeat?}
That guy’s finger was then jutted towards Han Xiling’s face as he bellowed, “Outside! You and me! One-on-one now!”

With such a beauty before him, how could Han Xiling just lie down and easily accept his defeat?

_{Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. {How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!}}“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.

Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!

_{After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.}He had a dream that night, one where he grew tall and powerful—he was invincible. He was able to protect Han Jiangxue.

After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.

_{It’s like he’s a living fairy doll…}
Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?

It’s like he’s a living fairy doll…

_{The colour drained from Han Jiangxue’s face in an instant, and the bowl of soup was flung to the table where it spilt. Getting up, he turned and strutted towards the door, his voice furious as he spat, “If anyone dares say that crap to you again, you should beat the life out of them until they understand what a man is, you hear!”}That guy’s finger was then jutted towards Han Xiling’s face as he bellowed, “Outside! You and me! One-on-one now!”

_{“Shush!” Aunty Wu hurriedly blocked Han Xiling’s mouth with her hand before explaining in a whisper, “Do not speak of such things so recklessly! This is another taboo of Master’s! Even now, he’s already angry enough to lose control of his breath!”}“Haa… New kids like you are always the ones bullied.” Han Jiangxue chuckled while using a finger to poke Han Xiling’s cheek.

_{Diandian’s arms were as pink and tender as his face—and just as smooth as a baby’s.}But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!

Diandian’s arms were as pink and tender as his face—and just as smooth as a baby’s.

_{“Really?” Han Xiling lifted his arm closer to see if he could make out the dense, long hairs to come. “Is having long, thіck hair that important, Aunty Wu?”}
It was an especially pleasant-sounding name, but most people don’t seem to reflect their names, unfortunately.

“Really?” Han Xiling lifted his arm closer to see if he could make out the dense, long hairs to come. “Is having long, thіck hair that important, Aunty Wu?”

_{This one sentence was all it took to soften Han Xiling’s heart and make him shed a few tears in self-pity. It wasn’t until Aunty Wu arrived a short while later with a bowl of chicken soup that his falling tears finally stopped.}But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!

But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!

_{Having noticed him wake up, Han Jiangxue pulled away the hand he had rested on Han Xiling’s forehead before he sneered, “Idiot! You really are an utter fool!”}
“Why?” An obviously confused Han Xiling asked. There had to be a reason some random classmate challenged him to a duel, and he knew he couldn’t always let himself be at the mercy of others.

Having noticed him wake up, Han Jiangxue pulled away the hand he had rested on Han Xiling’s forehead before he sneered, “Idiot! You really are an utter fool!”

_{“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.}“Drink. You need to take care of your health.” Han Jiangxue raised a spoon of the soup towards Han Xiling’s lips to feed him.

“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.

_{{Aah! Oh my god! Did I… Did my spring finally come?}}“Oh…” Han Xiling’s eyes widened in realisation, his next words reserved for his thoughts. That guy is seriously slim, and his skin is as fair, supple, and smooth as tofu, so… how did someone like him make out in an academy like this? Did he… also get bullied like I have?

Aah! Oh my god! Did I… Did my spring finally come?

_{Diandian’s arms were as pink and tender as his face—and just as smooth as a baby’s.}Aah! Oh my god! Did I… Did my spring finally come?

Diandian’s arms were as pink and tender as his face—and just as smooth as a baby’s.

_{“Of course! I guarantee it. I will certainly do my best to make sure you grow as strong as a mighty oak!”}
Shui Xian’s gaze left Han Xiling to sweep over Diandian like a gust of wind over a lake’s surface as if it couldn’t dare linger in place for too long. His arrogant glare again crashed onto Han Xiling, his words dripping with malice, “The sight of you just pisses me off.”

“Of course! I guarantee it. I will certainly do my best to make sure you grow as strong as a mighty oak!”

_{“Why?” An obviously confused Han Xiling asked. There had to be a reason some random classmate challenged him to a duel, and he knew he couldn’t always let himself be at the mercy of others.}When the fairy doll smiled, two dimples appeared at each corner of his lips, a sight that instantly made a person's heart all mushy and sweet. “I was sick yesterday, so I couldn't come to class, so this is our first time meeting. Hi, my name is Xuanyuan Diandian. What’s yours?”

“Why?” An obviously confused Han Xiling asked. There had to be a reason some random classmate challenged him to a duel, and he knew he couldn’t always let himself be at the mercy of others.

_{“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.}Chapter 3.1: Exposed

“...” That smile left Han Xiling awestruck for a long time before he regained his senses. “Xiling… I’m Han Xiling.” He was finally able to reply.

_{But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!}
Oh… Han Xiling nodded and followed the older boy to the training grounds. He was already aware that boys can have the simplest reasons for fighting. If there were words spoken that were not liked, it was enough to start a bloody scuffle. This was nothing foreign to him back at the Youmiao academy—it was rather common, in fact.

But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!

_{Having noticed him wake up, Han Jiangxue pulled away the hand he had rested on Han Xiling’s forehead before he sneered, “Idiot! You really are an utter fool!”}“Drink. You need to take care of your health.” Han Jiangxue raised a spoon of the soup towards Han Xiling’s lips to feed him.

Having noticed him wake up, Han Jiangxue pulled away the hand he had rested on Han Xiling’s forehead before he sneered, “Idiot! You really are an utter fool!”

_{After accepting a couple more spoonfuls of soup, Han Xiling finally recalled what happened at Qingmiao and asked, “Han… I mean, Father, do you know what the thing about body hair is about?”}
Xuanyuan Diandian also followed behind them, but his expression was rather strange. His gaze seemed to linger on Han Xiling. Perhaps he wondered if Han Xiling could win.

After accepting a couple more spoonfuls of soup, Han Xiling finally recalled what happened at Qingmiao and asked, “Han… I mean, Father, do you know what the thing about body hair is about?”

_{That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: {Thank god! I’m still alive.}}But he saw that Han Xiling’s arms were covered in a fine fuzz, the kind of fuzz that would grow into that much-treasured hair everyone dеsired in the future!

That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: Thank god! I’m still alive.

_{Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.}“Really?” Han Xiling lifted his arm closer to see if he could make out the dense, long hairs to come. “Is having long, thіck hair that important, Aunty Wu?”

Xuanyuan Diandian suddenly reached out, taking hold of Han Xiling's arm before rolling up his sleeve.

_{Having noticed him wake up, Han Jiangxue pulled away the hand he had rested on Han Xiling’s forehead before he sneered, “Idiot! You really are an utter fool!”}At lunch, he sat at his assigned table, one located in the furthest corner, with a fingerprint-covered steamed bun beside a bowl with a fish head lying atop it.

Having noticed him wake up, Han Jiangxue pulled away the hand he had rested on Han Xiling’s forehead before he sneered, “Idiot! You really are an utter fool!”

_{That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: {Thank god! I’m still alive.}}Oh… Han Xiling nodded and followed the older boy to the training grounds. He was already aware that boys can have the simplest reasons for fighting. If there were words spoken that were not liked, it was enough to start a bloody scuffle. This was nothing foreign to him back at the Youmiao academy—it was rather common, in fact.

That scene was of Han Jiangxue, which made him sigh in relief and mutter: Thank god! I’m still alive.

_{“Drink. You need to take care of your health.” Han Jiangxue raised a spoon of the soup towards Han Xiling’s lips to feed him.}
With such a beauty before him, how could Han Xiling just lie down and easily accept his defeat?

“Drink. You need to take care of your health.” Han Jiangxue raised a spoon of the soup towards Han Xiling’s lips to feed him.

_{“According to what I have heard from Uncle Bo, it is something immensely important among swordsmen. It seems that if a man is fair and smooth in appearance, others would perceive him to be lacking in masculinity—even if he possesses skills in the art of the sword, he would be looked down upon by his peers.” A sigh left Aunty Wu as she said those words, as though she had recalled a sad memory.}After rolling Han Xiling’s sleeve halfway up, Diandian walked behind him and held out his own arm before also rolling up his sleeves.

_☆☆☆But before Han Xiling could wake from his dreams of spring, a heavy punch descended upon him, and a sharp pain rang out from his back. As he sputtered out a muffled groan, he struggled to his feet. Turning around, he saw a fierce-looking guy behind him.

☆☆☆

_{After accepting a couple more spoonfuls of soup, Han Xiling finally recalled what happened at Qingmiao and asked, “Han… I mean, Father, do you know what the thing about body hair is about?”}“Why?” An obviously confused Han Xiling asked. There had to be a reason some random classmate challenged him to a duel, and he knew he couldn’t always let himself be at the mercy of others.

After accepting a couple more spoonfuls of soup, Han Xiling finally recalled what happened at Qingmiao and asked, “Han… I mean, Father, do you know what the thing about body hair is about?”

_{Pure disbelief was the only thing on Han Xiling’s face as he stared at the one he never expected to treat him so tenderly.}“Shush!” Aunty Wu hurriedly blocked Han Xiling’s mouth with her hand before explaining in a whisper, “Do not speak of such things so recklessly! This is another taboo of Master’s! Even now, he’s already angry enough to lose control of his breath!”

Pure disbelief was the only thing on Han Xiling’s face as he stared at the one he never expected to treat him so tenderly.

_{“Why?” An obviously confused Han Xiling asked. There had to be a reason some random classmate challenged him to a duel, and he knew he couldn’t always let himself be at the mercy of others.}
All the other senior brothers in the food hall dropped their bowls and chopsticks and then made their way outside. It was rare to have such a gripping fight to watch after all, so it was natural for them to not pass up the chance.

“Why?” An obviously confused Han Xiling asked. There had to be a reason some random classmate challenged him to a duel, and he knew he couldn’t always let himself be at the mercy of others.

_{So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!}As a result, Han Xiling rolled up his sleeves and showed him as he explained. “I noticed that everyone there is really strong, and the ones with super thіck body hair seem to be highly respected. But… but then they made fun of me for not having any. They called me a naked little piglet.”

So unlike the peach fuzz-covered arms of Han Xiling, Diandian’s were truly as smooth as clear jade—possessing no fuzz at all!

_{But he didn’t want to refuse the boy before him, so he just allowed him to have his way.}Han Xiling was still long lost in his astonishment as he stared at this person while lost in thought. How could there be such a person in the “Qingmiao”? And why haven’t I ever noticed them?!

But he didn’t want to refuse the boy before him, so he just allowed him to have his way.

_{Diandian’s arms were as pink and tender as his face—and just as smooth as a baby’s.}
With all this unfolding, Han Xiling started to wonder if that new adoptive father of his might have actually been his evil star instead of a lucky one. Because in all honest truth, ever since he has met the man, he hasn’t had a single day of peace.

Diandian’s arms were as pink and tender as his face—and just as smooth as a baby’s.

_{“So… does eating more meat mean I really will grow more body hair?” Han Xiling had heard eating more meat made one more masculine, but as the poor orphan he was, he only had a chance to eat meat once a year—twice if he was lucky.}Shui Xian’s gaze left Han Xiling to sweep over Diandian like a gust of wind over a lake’s surface as if it couldn’t dare linger in place for too long. His arrogant glare again crashed onto Han Xiling, his words dripping with malice, “The sight of you just pisses me off.”

_{{It’s like he’s a living fairy doll…}}Once he slowly straightened himself up, Han Xiling observed the fierce face glaring at him. Oh, he's my senior brother… Shu… Shui Xian?

It’s like he’s a living fairy doll…

Author's Note:

N/A

Notes:

Note: Shui Xian’s name is (Water String), the string of a musical instrument.

Updated on a Saturday. Raws: Kobo

Adoptive Father: C03-1

Chapter 3.1: Exposed

Author's Note:

Notes:

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