Walking with his father, mother, his sister and Yin Yu through the lotus pier market on their way to the pier where they will see Hua Ying off.
A-Ying are you sure you don't want me to rather open an array and take you there asked Xie Lian once again
Mother, if you go with me then when we reach there, you'll want to talk to the sect leader Lan Qiren and explain who I am and who you are, all the while father scares him maybe even killing him and at the end of it you won't bear to leave me which will result in, father moving grumpily in an inn because, you want to stay there or me returning home and father carrying me back home because I don't want to leave and possibly spending all my time with Cuo cuo. Said Hua Ying
But I just came home I don't want my brother to leave me Hua Tianshi said as she wrapped her arms around from behind and holding tight (she was still taller than him to do so)
AGAIN, CAN I PLEASE BURY HER Roared Hua Cheng as he tried to unwrap his daughter from his son and scaring the people in the market.
San Lang, no need to be so loud and no not now, not ever, I need her to take over the court someday Xie Lian giggled into his sleeve
Yin Yu, help me Whined Hua Ying
Sorry A-Ying this is your family matter and I do not want to be buried by your father Said Yin Yu in a slightly amused voice
Let go of my son, you demonic evil flower princess said Hua Cheng trying to pull Hua Tianshi off.
Never, he I mine, and its demonically evil moon flower goddess, you overbearing demon, you had him long enough I want him now growled Hua Tianshi
Okay, okay. Hua Ying said as he slipped out of both their grasps and held them both by the waist, share me I am mortal after all said Hua Ying laughing
WEI WUXIAN...
A-Ying looked up to see Jiang Cheng smiling and waving, he tried to run up to him but his sister's grasp was too strong so they walked up with a struggling and flustered Hua Ying.
Surprised as they got there in between Jiang Fengmian and Yu Zi Yuan was two men fighting.
HE IS MY NEPHEW AND I CARE FOR HIM MORE THAT'S WHY I HAVE COME yelled Mu Qing
HE IS MY FUCKING NEPHEW AND I CARE FOR HIM MORE, THAT'S WHY I WAS HERE BEFORE ANYONE roared Feng Xin
Uncle Feng Xin, Mu Qing why are you? Asked Hua Ying who was finally released, drawing his uncle's attention
To greet you of course glaring at the other male, bowing Tia Zi Dianxia, Hua Cheng Zhu.
A-Cheng, shijie come meet my sister called Hua Ying dragging his sister half way and also away from the grown-ups who started talking.
A-Shi this is Jiang Yanli, my shijie and this grumpy person is Jiang Cheng, my shidi. Shijie, Cheng-Cheng this is my sister Hua Tianshi introduced Hua Ying with a big smile as they bowed in greeting.
My brother has told me a lot about you, that' all he talks about non-stop for a week after he gets home says Hua Tianshi while still fondly (but possessively) holding her brother.
A-Shi, you can let go now said A-Ying laughing
No not until the last-minute retorts Hua Tianshi
The last minute is here and I would like my son back Hua Cheng growls
Remember what mother said Hua Tianshi laughing and she sees him fingering E-Ming and you've had him for ten years I had him for two days
Darling. Called Hua Cheng
Hua Tianshi don't aggrieve your father, let him say his farewells and keep the peace you can torture him at home. Said Xie Lian
Letting go A-Ying with a frown, Hua Ying goes up to his mother first, self-control, have fun learn what you should and remember that I love you Xie Lian says and he hugs and kisses his son.
Hua-Ying turns to his father and hugs him, my little demon, if they hurt you, I will burn their place to the ground and torture every last one.
Father!!! Exclaimed Hua Ying
Fine, Fine, Hua Cheng says chuckling, speak to us every night, don't go off you your own when you can let us know and we will come into town and I mean it they lift a finger and I will really give that old man his death. I love you, be safe. Said Hua Cheng as he Kisses his son's head
A-Ying don't flirt with everything that has a skirt, don't drink too much and do not start any fights god alone knows none of these mortals can take you, Hua Tianshi said as she hugs her brother one last time, I will care for both your lotus until you return. A-Ying, A-Shi loves you very much come back home safe please.
Jumping on the boat, then helping Shije on then turning around waving, as the boat leaves the pier Hua Ying smiles waving at his family feeling excited about exploring a new town and a new place.
Hua Ying was playing with 'light breeze' (his fan that changes into a parasol) rather than taking his war fan (swift wind) out and accidently sinking the vessel he started with a water stance so it made it easier to move with the boat, he loved doing fan cultivation it's like dancing but deadlier and he loved to dance. (Even at the brothel the ladies there taught him the erotic dance just because he asked, begged then whined) they stopped on the way to pick up a few more people.
Who is that? Asked a big muscled man
I honestly do not know when the boat arrives, I will ask Jiang Cheng said the boy waiting on the docks, as the boat arrived and bumped the dock sending Hua Ying tumbling down, he did not care he danced on the lily pads until he got to the docks.
Wei Wuxian stop, fooling around or I'll drown you said Jiang Cheng coming out Nie Mingjue, Nie Huaisang said as he bowed.
Nie sect? You mean the Nie Sect that trains with one sided saber's, are known for their raw talent and aggression and the ones that die early because of the conflict between their swords and their masters? That Nie sect. Said Hua Ying excitedly
A-Xian why don't you greet first then inquire said Jiang Yanli
My apologies, my name is Wei Ying courtesy Wei wuxian he bowed then looked up with a smile
Nie Mingjue was taken aback by this boys Demeanor, can I have my answer now please?
Nie Huaisang already taken a liking to Wei Ying answered yes that is correct
Was your clan founder really a butcher? Asked Hua ying
Yes. Answered Nie Huaisang
I wonder what would've pissed him off so much to actually do something as dangerous as harvesting the beast resentful energy just to protect who? You're in the middle of nowhere, never mind but how long does it take to deviate? does it hurt? what does it look like? have you ever tried separating the negative energy and just isolating it to your sword while is still being able to use your spiritual energy?
Nie Mingjue and Nie Huaisang were at a loss of words
I'm sorry said Hua Ying I talk before thinking and I talk without breaking
Finally laughing Nie huaisang said no, no it's fine how about we start again but one thing at a time and on the vessel, Jiang Cheng looks like he is going to Qi deviate before brother does.
Wei Wuxian was it? Asked Nie Mingjue
Yes, or A-Ying or A-Xian or Wei Ying, said Hua Ying with even a bigger smile
How much do you know of our clan and our swords? Nie Mingjue asked
Lots mother made me study everything she could get her hands on your clan was by far the most unique so I took interest then I asked grandfather about the Qi Deviation and he told me it's because two energies are clashing, find the middle man or cut the source I would rather try something else like a talisman that binds into the person like a brand or mark that helps both energies rely on each other making them both peaceful but father wouldn't let me near you enough to try. explained Hua Ying
Looking at every shocked face, did I say something wrong? Hua Ying asked
I never knew you studied Talismans as well Said Jiang Cheng
Having a family like mine you study everything I started training at 5 blushed Hua Ying
If I give you what you need you can help? Asked Nie Mingjue
I could try and what I can't get right I can ask my grandfather, if you let me after my studies I can come back here. Said Hua Ying
Interesting, you would be welcome said Nie Huaisang said what was that dance you were doing before?
Oh, that smiling sheepishly I got bored so I just started doing fan cultivation to pass the time. Said Hua Ying
You can cultivate with a fan? Asked Nie Mingjue
Yes, I even have my war fan here but I won't use it on the boat as I might damage and sink it then we'd have to walk all the way. Said Hua Ying, taking out his war fan and showing it to the Nie Family
Can you teach him growled Nie Mingjue
I can, I will but, it will have to be a secret I don't want the whole world to know because it's girly my father said but he allowed it on the account my mother fights with a ribbon and well you know how that went said Hua Ying as he blushed a deeper red and rubbed the back of his neck.
Letting out a booming laugh Nie Mingjue said I do all too well then that's is fine as long as he develops something.
Brother, you mean it? asked Nie Huaisang
As long as you cultivate and come back strong yes and you will come back and I will be testing you said Nie Mingjue Where is that man it's almost time?
Who? Asked Hua Ying
Here he comes now. Said Nie Huaisang
Sorry I'm late had to prepare the gift said Jīn Guangyao
Finally, can we cast off now I don't want to get into Caiyi town when it's dark said Jiang Cheng
Cheng Cheng is grumpy, it a nice meeting you Nie sect leader Nie Mingjue said Hua Ying as he bowed
(That is my nephew, he loves sabers said a very proud Feng Xin)
Then he sneezed and looked up, the gods must be talking about me as he smiled
He climbed on the boat and went to sit by his Shijie and Nie Huaisang following
Are you also Cultivating Jiang Yanli? asked Nie Huaisang
Yes, A-Ying is the head disciple of our sect those with a weak core like myself goes to him and he helps them build their core replied Jiang Yanli proudly
As Jiang Cheng he said sat down you all spoil him to much as well, don't think I didn't notice the gifts. Said Jiang Cheng
Hua Ying turns and puts his head on Jiang Cheng's lap, don't act like you didn't enjoy it either Cheng Cheng he said smiling
Get off me and how many times do I have to tell you stop calling me that said Jiang Cheng
Enough to make you blue A-Cheng because you're my cheng cheng, my brother cheng my future sect leader and I shall forever be loyal to you as Hua Ying starts laughing and closes his eyes and starts breathing deeply
Did he, is he sleeping asked a shocked Nie Huaisang
Yes, he is asleep and the only thing that will wake him up is a ghost, ghoul or word D.O.G said Jiang Cheng
d...
Don't say it you idiot, leave him let him sleep, he has trouble sleeping when he is not at his home and he was too excited to sleep last night said Jiang Cheng
The ride to caiyi was peaceful Hua Ying slept all the way with his veil over his face making him look more like a beauty than a boy, Jiang Cheng and Jiang Yanli was use to this But Nie Huaisang wasn't
He looks more like a beauty and not just any beauty, he looks celestial he remarked
Don't let him hear you say that as the entered the town he might say he hates it but he loves using it to his advantage. Said Jiang Yanli giggling
Just then Hua Ying's nose twitched, then he inhaled deeply, his eyes popped open and heat up and said cheng cheng I smell wine he got up and walked to the stern excitedly he said they are selling on the pier and he ran off.
Damnit WEI WUXIAN WAIT TILL I GET MY HANDS ON YOU Shouted Jiang Cheng
I will see you when you dock laughed Hua Ying jumping from boat to boat to get to the wine.
As the docked Jīn Guangyao got off and excused himself then Jiang Cheng and as he was about to help his sister out a pale long hand got here first Shijie be careful he said so he in turned helped Nie Huaisang out.
Then turned and smacked Hua Ying on the head
Ow what was that for asked Hua Ying as he rubbed his head
If anything happens to you, what do you think your family will do Asked Jiang Cheng
Mother would fuss father would laugh after hearing the whole story and A-Shi would throw her hands up in the air and yell pathetic and start and argument with father because I take too much after him said Hua Ying honestly
Your family sounds fun said Nie Huaisang
Yes, they are and overbearingly over protective watch said Hua Ying with a smile
YIN YU THAT HOOD IS NOT FOOLING ANYONE I ALREADY SAW RIGHT THROUGH YOU shouted Hua Ying
As Yin Yu came forward Hua Ying grabbed his coat, I have known you for years you can't sneak up on me even though you try said Hua Ying smiling
I wasn't A-Ying was making sure you're safe is all replied Yin Yu
I am safe tell father that I will always be safe and he must stop being like mother said Hua Ying laughing knowing his father heard him. Come let me introduce you.
Nie Huaisang From the Nie sect and the sect's younger brother and this is Yin Yu he is my father's right-hand man and my best friend so like my older annoying brother that follows me around and protects me Smiled Hua Ying.
Nie huaisang walked over, how did you know it was him even I didn't notice since there are many dressed as him Asked Nie Huaisang
Easy he is the only one to ever wear the mask. Said Hua Ying
Why does he wear a mask? Asked Nie Huaisang
So that no one sees how much he enjoys life. Said Hua Ying
So, he constantly wears it isn't it uncomfortable? Asked Nie Huaisang
No, it's like my veil wear it only enough and it grows on you. Said Hua Ying
Did he also train you? Asked Nie Huaisang
Yes, with my uncle's and father but, he was the first one to see me take on a ten-foot measuring snake and kill it as I was trying to protect a friend.
He watched you? Asked a sshocked Nia Huaisang
Mn
You killed it?
mn
With what?
My wooden sword that collects spiritual energy from me I pierced through the head. Said Hua Ying
Weren't you scared?
No, I was angry.
Shocked by this new information Hua Ying added that's why my father allowed me to night hunt with my uncles and Yin Yu
Yin Yu, as he handed back the coat you got to go now, if something is wrong, I will let you know promise. Said Hua Ying
Saying goodbye, the four walked down the street with their disciples.
I have to go up immediately ZeWu-Jun must send a letter to my brother as soon as I get there or my brother will have my legs he said as he bid farewell.
Are we going up as well or staying in town for the night? asked Hua Ying
A-Ying, I booked us a hotel so we will stay in town then go up the day before lessons start, I want the disciples to have at least a bit of fun before we go up. Said Jiang Yanli
That means I can buy everyone emperors smile uncle Pei Ming wasn't lying when he said it tasted wonderful said Hua Ying with a smile
As they reached the hotel it was already late afternoon and everyone was tired.
I'm sorry replied the hotel manager I know you booked the rooms but some rich cultivator came and paid for the whole hotel I even had to kick the guests that were here out he paid double for those rooms.
Just as they were about to ask who it was the laning jin sect walked in
Don't tell me it was these guys said Jiang Cheng then turning around what gives you the right to book a whole hotel what about the other disciples Jiang Cheng huffed
Surely, they didn't mean anything by it said Jiang Yanli turning to her fiancee Jin Zixuan maybe we could share.
We booked the whole hotel for the Laning Jin sect alone replied Jin Zixuan as he walked off to his room
Such a peacock muttered Hua Ying come shijie let us go I can't handle the stench or arrogance any longer, oh and rest assured that you will be out if business and closed by the time they leave because greed should never overpower hospitality, he said making sure the laning people also heard it as he took Jiang Yanli gently and Jiang Cheng not to gently and walked out.
What was that about A-Ying asked Jiang Yanli
What was what? asked Hua Ying confused
What you told the owner she replied
I told the truth just leave it at that shijie come let's find a place, after walking a while they could not find a place to rest so they decided to head up instead.
I hope that peacock has a restless night Cursed Jiang Cheng
The gods might be listening Hua Ying laughed knowing that the owner is truly going to lose his business and Jin Zixuan and his people are in for a very restless night. His father will make sure of that.
(That brat dare turn his back on my son, the owner dare turns them away from shelter YIN YU I want every malicious ghost there tonight, no one gets hurt or dies keep watch I want them scared shitless he roared)
As they reached the entrance, they see on the seal script on the wall.
3000 rules who has the time to stand here and read those he said not realizing that he just offended the Lan disciples standing guard
Invitation said the one Lan disciple
One moment said Jiang Cheng as he looked for it, sister do you, have it? he asked after a while
No, A-Cheng father gave it to you the night before we were to depart said Jiang Yanli
Then I must've left it on the desk sorry A-Li said Jiang Cheng
No invitation no entry those are the rules I'm afraid said the other Lan disciple
We are Yunmeng Jiang sect that has been invited if you could please inform you sect leader of our plight we would truly be grateful said Jiang Yanli in a sweet voice
Lady Jiang, please wait a moment...
Just then a bunch of Lan sect disciples came around the corner and in between them was a stretcher, with them was a boy no older than Hua Ying, for some reason his heart started beating fast and Hua Ying massaged his chest, Hua Ying also clearly saw the person under the white cloth was still breathing, after a quick discussion, the guard came back Lady Jiang please wait I have to go up and relay a message to the sect leader I will of course relay your as well then, he bowed and walked hurriedly up the stairs
Well seeing as though we have to wait for, I don't know how long how about we find a clearing near the entrance and light a fire and wait said Hua Ying
That is a good idea said Jiang Cheng
Hua Cheng was still thinking about the body when another though pooped into his head
(I am sure I have seen these mourning clothes before but where? Ah, yes, the boy I remember now I wonder what he looks like now)
Smiling like a fool Jiang Cheng broke him out of his thoughts, what are you planning now? Asked Jiang Cheng
I was planning to go down and get some emperors smile, I will be back soon wait for me said Hua Ying as he started running down the mountain.
Entering the inn, he noticed how loud it was and snatches of a conversation could be heard.
did you hear about the inn near the docks...... haunted...... owner's greed got too much
Ah there's my beautiful nephew...
Uncle Pei Ming you're here too sighed Hua Ying
No, my dear I am not here I am drinking he replied
That's what I am here, I want two jars to take with me we are stuck at the entrance said Hua Ying
Now that I heard I also heard the Hua Cheng Zhu, lost his temper in his hall now some poor soul is being haunted laughed Pei Ming
I shouldn't have said what I said then father wouldn't have done that said Hua Ying
You honestly think weather you said it or not he wouldn't do something like that, mind you if you said nothing it would've been worse said Pei Ming
Oh yes, bar keep two jars of emperor's smile to go called Pei Ming
Sit my boy giving Hua Ying a drink so long, so how have you been doing? asked Pei Ming sheepishly
I met a few beauties before the inn story but I haven't had a chance to explore, and according to the rules the males and females are kept separate whined Hua Ying
Don't worry a year is enough time here to do all that you want said Pei Ming as the two jars of emperor's smile made its way to the table.
Thank you, uncle Pei Ming I have to go, said Hua Ying smiling and got up and left. Walking back up he started thinking what his uncle had said but he didn't want to only flirt around. He wanted to find his soulmate.
The next morning Hua Ying was woken up by Jiang Cheng
Get Up Wei Ying, Jiang Cheng grounded his teeth
But Cheng Cheng it's too early he whined A-Ying want to sleep
Well, if A-Ying doesn't get up I will go get the dogs said Jiang Cheng sarcastically
Bolting up and looking around but, C-Cheng Cheng d-dogs aren't allowed in here it's one of the many, MANY RULES of the gusu Lan sect said a calm Hua Ying
You are right, but at least you're up come on let's go eat said Jiang Cheng
Hua Ying hops out of bed and stretches; I wonder what they will have then, looking at Jiang Cheng and smiling
Cheng, Cheng it's to silent said Hua Ying as he hung on Jiang Cheng I want to explore
Wei-Ying... As Hua Ying looked up looking for the person calling for his name and saw Nie Huaisang walking over with another of his disciple's
Huaisang if you are going to say good morning then don't, I am still much too tired and its A-Ying or A-Xian we are friends are we not. Said Hua Ying
What happened to you A... A-Ying, then since I may call you A-Ying, call me A-Sang Hesitated Nie Huaisang
Used to much spiritual energy, anyway why are you looking for me? Asked Hua Ying
Nie HuaiSang spoke, A-Ying, listen to a sincere advice of mine. The Cloud Recesses is nothing like Lotus Pier. On this trip to Gusu, remember that there's one person whom you shouldn't provoke.
Hua Ying asked, "Who? Lan QiRen?"
Nie HuaiSang replied, not that old man. The one you need to be careful of is his proudest disciple, named Lan Zhan.
Hua Ying spoke, "The Lan Zhan, is he a lad who looks quite pretty, very pretty. He pointed at his head, White from top to bottom, wearing a forehead ribbon, and carrying a silver sword on his back. He looked rather handsome, but with his straight face, he looked like he was mourning from the Two Jades of Lan? Lan Zhan?
The respectable title of the Two Jades of Lan, were given to the two sons of the GusuLan Sect's current sect leader—Lan Huan and Lan Zhan. Just after they passed fourteen, they were deemed by the elders of each sect as exemplary models to compare with their own disciples. They were exceptionally famous among the juniors, so it was only natural that everyone recognized the names.
What other, Lan Zhan is there? Yes, it's that one. Oh gosh, he's the same age as you and I, but he has none of the energy of a teen. He's stiff and strict, even worse than his uncle. Said Nie Huaisang
Jiang Cheng sneered, is there anyone who looks ugly in the GusuLan Sect? His sect doesn't even accept disciples with unclean features. If you can, find me one who has an average face.
"..." Nie HuaiSang spoke assuredly, That's him! After a pause, he spoke again But, he had been doing secluded meditation for the past few days. You just came yesterday; when did you have the chance to see him?
Yesterday night said Hua Ying with a sly smile
Yesterday... Yesterday night?! There's a curfew in the Cloud Recesses. Where did you see him? Why don't I know about this? Asked Jiang Cheng shocked
Hua Ying pointed, There. He pointed to a the top of a very tall wall.
The others were out of speech. Jiang Cheng even felt his head growing larger and clenched his teeth, we just came and you got into trouble! What's the matter about? Asked Jiang Cheng
Hua Ying replied with a grin, there, really isn't much. When we came, we lost our invitation, then we were waiting and decided it would be a great time to get the emperor's smile for us, so I went down and met my uncle and we sat and drank then I came back up and found you all gone, so I tried going in up there was a barrier so I broke it, still thinking it was too weak. Explained Hua Ying
Then, where's the liquor? Asked Jiang Cheng
You broke the barrier asked the Disciple
Well, when I just jumped onto the top of the wall, and I was caught by Lan Zhan said Hua Ying
Master Wei, you must have struck gold. He probably just got out of seclusion and went on night patrol, and caught you red-handed. Said the Disciple
Those who return at night won't be let in before seven in the morning. How come he let you inside? Said Jiang Cheng
Throwing his hands up in the air Hua Ying replied, that's what he said and he wanted me to move back out but I just spent effort jumping the wall. You tell me he pouted how could I do that? And then, he came up closer, and asked me what I had in my hands.
What did you say? Asked Jiang Cheng as he felt a headache coming on
It's Emperor's Smile! If I share a jar with you, if you want and I Smiled said Hua Ying
... Alcohol is forbidden in the Cloud Recesses. That's a worse crime. Sighed Jiang Cheng
He said the same thing to me. And I asked, why don't you tell me what exactly is not forbidden in your sect?
He seemed like he was a bit angry and wanted me to look at the Wall of Rules in front of the mountain. Honestly, there were over three thousand, and everything was written in seal script. Who would read them? Did you read them? Anyways, I didn't. What's angering about this? Pouted Hua Ying more.
That's right! Said Nie Huaisang everyone feels Those sect rules are a bit excessive, there are over three thousand in number, and don't even repeat? Things like 'killing livestock within the area is prohibited, fighting without permission is prohibited, promiscuity is prohibited, venturing at night is prohibited, causing noise is prohibited, running is prohibited' are tolerable, but there're even ones like 'sneering for no reason is prohibited, sitting improperly is prohibited, eating more than three bowls is prohibited'...
What? Fighting without permission is also prohibited? Laughed Hua Ying
Yes, A-Ying. Don't tell me you fought with him. Moaned Huaisang
Well After I said what I said about the rules he pulled out his sword and I danced away easily avoiding its touch did and slipped on a loose tile and that's how we broke a jar a jar moaned Hua Ying
Everyone slapped their legs and exclaimed in regret.
Didn't you bring back two jars? Where's the other one? Said losing focus on the mess Hua Ying just made.
I drank it. Said Hua Ying
Where did you drink it? Jiang Chen asked
In front of him. I said, okay, if alcohol is forbidden in the Cloud Recesses, then I just won't go in. I'll drink it sitting here, that won't count, will it? Then I drank everything in one gulp, right in front of him. Grinned Hua Ying
... And then? They all asked
And then he came at me at me again, I was having so much fun dancing away that I didn't even think of using Suibian I bought out 'light breeze' and deflected his sword with my fan then as he lunged I turned 'light breeze' into a parasol and he backed away surprised I think, (giving Jiang Cheng "there is more to the story look) he said ridiculous and I smirked and showed up behind him and told him I'd give him a kiss if he forgot about the whole thing and he attacked me again finally giving up I let him catch me then he took me to where old man Qiren and Lan Huan was and I was given a warning and sent to the room.
Nie HuaiSang blurted out, You're so smug.
Lan Zhan's skills were quite good. Hua Ying said (but mine is far out of his league)
You're going die, A-Ying! Lan Zhan has never had such a loss before. He's probably after you. You should be careful. Although Lan Zhan doesn't go to classes with us, he's in charge of punishments in the Lan Sect! Said Nie Huaisang
Not frightened at all, Hua Ying waving his hand, what's there to be scared of? Didn't everyone say that Lan Zhan had been a prodigy since he was very young? If he's so smart from such an early age, then he probably finished learning everything his uncle taught and do secluded meditation all the time. How would he have time to come after me? I...
Before his sentence was finished, as the group walked around a wall with a hollowed-out window, they saw a white-clothed teen sitting in a rigidly upright position in the room, with long hair tied up and wearing a forehead ribbon, emitting an aura of ice and frost. He swept a cold look at them.
At once, all three mouths were silenced. They quietly entered the room, quietly picked their seats to sit, and quietly avoided the desks around Lan Zhan.
Jiang Cheng patted Hua Ying's shoulder and whispered, He's after you. Hope for the best.
When he turned his head, he could see the side of Lan Zhan's face. His lashes were long, appearing to be extremely delicate and elegant. His posture was also very upright, looking straight ahead.
Leaning back whispering just loud enough for Nie Huaisang and Lan Zhan to hear, I do not mind that he is after me, as long as he realizes that I have never been kissed so the honor would've been his if he didn't turn me down in that way said Hua Ying opening 'light breeze' and smiling mischievously.
Huaisang laughed behind his fan and Jiang Cheng was about to reprimand Hua Ying but stayed silent as Lan QiRen walked into the room.
Lan QiRen was tall and thin, standing with a straight back. Although he had a long, black goatee, he was definitely not old. And, according to the tradition of the GusuLan Clan producing beautiful men each generation, he was definitely not bad-looking either. Yet, unfortunately, with the pedantic and stiff air that surrounded him, nothing would feel wrong if one called him an old man. He entered with a scroll in one hand. The long scroll of paper rolled all over the ground as soon as he opened it, and he started to talk about the rules of the Lan Sect. The faces of everyone in the room started to grow dark.
Hua Ying started getting bored, his gaze flew everywhere, and landed on the side face of Lan Zhan. He was shocked as he saw concentration and seriousness that were nothing like a façade. How can he listen so attentively to something so boring? Hua Ying thought looking around he let his Wraith butterflies come out to entertain him but he made sure only Lan Zhan could see them as they fluttered everywhere landing on people. One decided to take the chance and landed right on the tip of Lan Zhan's nose and kissed it.
Immediately, in the front, Lan QiRen slammed the scroll onto the table and frowned stroking his beard, I am only repeating this one by one because nobody reads it, even though it was carved onto the rock wall. Hence, nobody will be able to violate them using ignorance as an excuse again. Even if I do this, there are still people who do not pay attention. Very well, I will proceed to talk about something else. Said Lan QiRen
Although his words were mainly point at him, Hua Ying smiled
As he expected, Lan QiRen spoke, "Wei Ying."
Hua Ying answered, Here.
Let me ask you. Are yao, demons, ghosts, and monsters the same things?
No. Smiled Hua Ying slyly (old man if you only knew who I was and who my parents and grandparents are you couldn't be asking me these kind of questions)
Why not? How are they differentiated?
Yao are formed from living, non-human beings; demons are formed from living humans; ghosts are formed from dead humans; monsters are formed from dead, non-human beings.
'Yao' and 'monsters' are often confused. What is an example that distinguishes the two?
That's easy. (at least I know A-Niang would be proud) Hua Ying pointed at the viridian tree outside of the room and replied, "For example, a living tree was tainted with the energy of books, cultivated into a conscious being, and causes mischief, it would be a 'Yao'. If I took an axe and cut it in the middle, so that only a dead tree-stump was left, and then it cultivates into a being, it would be a 'monster.'"
"What was the profession of the founder of the Qinghe Nie Sect?"
A butcher.
The heraldry of the Lanling Jin Sect is a white peony. Which type of white peony is it?"
Sparks Amidst Snow.
Who was the first in the cultivation world to focus on the rise of his clan rather than his sect?
The founder of the Qishan Wen Sect, Wen Mao.
Answering the questions made everyone's hearts skip a few beats. Although they felt lucky, they all prayed for him to continue to answer correctly any questions, so that Lan QiRen wouldn't be able to pick on other people. Yet, Lan QiRen spoke, as a disciple of the Yunmeng Jiang Sect, you should have been very familiar with these and known them by heart since long ago, so there is nothing to be proud of even if you answered correctly. Let me ask you again—there is an executioner with parents, a wife, and children, but before he died, he executed more than one hundred people. He suddenly died in the public and, to punish him for his deeds, he was left on the streets for seven days. With the repressed energy of resentment, he started to haunt and kill. What should be done?
This time, Hua Ying didn't answer immediately, he made as though he was thinking while having a complete conversation in his head.
(This old man is busy upsetting me; I think daddy and mommy knows, don't lose control, don't...... Lan Zhan looks so handsome but he reminds me of something... I wonder what's for lunch, wait what was I doing again?)
The others thought that he was confused, and were all feeling restless. Lan QiRen scolded, why are you looking at him? Think about this as well. Don't open your books! As they all went for their book intending to look it up.
They were confused as well having died in the public and left on the streets for seven days, it was definitely a fierce ghost and a ferocious corpse. After a few moments, seeing that Hua Ying didn't answer, Lan QiRen seemed like he was thinking, and spoke again, "WangJi, you can tell him what should be done. Said Lan QiRen
Lan Zhan looked at Hua Ying before nodding to indicate respect and spoke in a monotonous voice, "First, liberate; second, suppress; third, eliminate.
The initial approach is to utilize the gratitude of his relatives and grant his dying wish, set free what he could not let go of. If it fails, suppress it. If the crimes were extremely wrongful, and its energy of resentment does not dissipate, exterminate it completely. The cultivation world should precisely keep to this order of measures. No errors should be allowed. Said Lan Zhan in a monotone
Everyone let out a long breath as Lan QiRen nodded with satisfaction, not a single mistake was made. With a pause, he spoke again, no matter in terms of cultivation or as a person, one needs to be as solid as this. If one becomes complacent and proud just because they defeated a few simple mountain beings in their home and hold some empty reputations, one would definitely bring disgrace upon themselves, sooner or later.
Hua Ying raised his brows thinking (this old man is asking of it, getting irritated) and took a look at the side of Lan Zhan's face (so handsome).
I have a question. Smirked Hua Ying (oh please dear heavens don't let him thought Jiang Cheng)
Speak. Ordered Lan Qiren
Although 'liberation' comes first, it is often impossible. 'To grant his dying wish' sounds simple—it would be easy, if the wish was a new piece of clothing, but what if the wish was to kill lots of people for revenge? Asked Hua Ying as his smirk got bigger
Thus, suppression assists liberation. If it is necessary, elimination would also follow. Said Lan Zhan
Such a waste. It wasn't that I didn't know of this answer, I was only thinking of a fourth path. Said Hua Ying now smiling mischievously
I have never heard of any fourth paths. Said Lan Qiren
Because the executioner died in such a way, it is only natural that he turned into a ferocious corpse. Since he executed more than one hundred people before he died, why not dig up the graves of these people, arouse their energy of resentment, collect the heads of those hundred people, and use them to fight with the ferocious corpse... thus it forms suppression. Said Hua Ying
Lan Zhan was shocked as he looked at him. Yet his face was still expressionless.
Lan QiRen was so furious that his goatee was quivering. He shouted, how dare you! The essence of exorcising Corpses and annihilating ghosts is to liberate! You do not study the methods of liberation, and even think about increasing their energy of resentment! You reverse the natural order, and ignore ethics and morality!
There are some things that have no use after liberation, so why not find a way to make use of them? When Yu the Great tamed the flood, obstruction was the inferior method, and redirection was the superior. Suppression is the same as obstruction, so isn't it inferior... explained Hua Ying
Lan QiRen hurled a book toward him, but he Evaded it. Spiritual energy is energy; resentful energy is energy as well. Spiritual energy is stored in the dantian. It can split mountains and fill oceans, available for human use. If so, then why can't resentful energy also be used by mortals? Asked Hua Ying
Another book came flying as Hua Ying evaded and hit Huaisang in the face knocking in backwards as Hua Ying grins
Then, let me ask you again! How do you make sure that the resentful energy only listens to you and does not harm others?
Remembering that he had to keep his true identity to himself Hua Ying replied I haven't. thought that far yet but the idea is there.
IF YOU HAD THE WHOLE CULTIVATION WORLD WOULD NOT ALLOW YOUR EXSISTENCE ROARED Lan Qiren GET OUT!!!
Laughing Hua Ying quickly left.
Wondering around Cloud recesses and taking in the scenery a little unusual breeze flitters around him sighing he follows the wind to where he ended up last night after talking to Xichen and old man Qiren. Auntie QingXuan I am fine as the wind then pushes him.
How did you know I was female she smiles and hugs him, leaning into the embrace, when you are female, she is soft and tender when you are male, he is strong and demanding.
Laughing she asked are you about to come down your sister, mother and father needs to see you before they come up here. Said Shi QingXuan
I can only for a bit, once classes are over, I need to be back. Replied Hua Ying
Appearing in the alley with his aunt he walks out and into the inn, as they walk through many stares at the female and what looks to be a girl almost at the age of marriage. Use to these kinds of looks and whispers they went into the room having just opened the door a flash of pink and an angry voice
If I get my hands on that old man, I will have my plants eat him Hua Tianshi said
A-Shi, it wasn't that bad whined Hua Ying
HE THREW BOOKS AT YOUR HEAD roared Hua Cheng (for once not minding that his daughter has taken all of his son)
Daddy said Hua Ying as he hugged his father and breathing in the cold darkness that was his father, they didn't hit me I am fine.
Walking in and hugging Hua Ying as well Xie Lian said if they did hit you, your father would've murdered him right there. Said Xie Lian
Smiling Hua Ying said to his mother, now aren't you, grateful daddy pushed me to training at five
Yes, yes. I walked right into that one as Xie Lian caressed his face, have you been eating?
The food would meet the standards of Wang Fang mommy it's better because of the medicinal herbs and there is no meat pouted Hua Ying but, I am eating three meals a day no more than two bowls but I can only stomach one I miss daddy's spicy food moaned Hua Ying
Mother I think we should send him food as well just in case my brother looks like he is starving Hua Tianshi said
Hua Tianshi, I think that is a good idea Hua Cheng praised he daughter and luckily Wraith butterflies can do it all, what is it again A-Ying? Asked Hua Cheng
Father Whined Hua Ying
....
Fine, they can teleport, communicate, carry heavy loads, protect their owner, heal, display and look very beautiful while doing all of that. Smiled Hua Ying
Seeing that he was fine Shi Qingxuan escorted Hua Ying back to cloud recesses if anything call the wind 'light breeze' can to that besides change into a parasol she said as she kissed his head, we love you A-ying now I have to go and let the others know how you are faring otherwise there will be a stampede said Shi QingXuan as she disappears with the wind as it also carries her laugh
Silently he said I miss everyone and home too.
After everyone finished the lesson, they finally found him on the roof of a tall wall. Hua Ying was laying on the grey tiles of the ledge, his right hand was under his cheek, and sat with one leg propped up and the other hanging down, swaying slightly. The disciples down there pointed at him, master Wei! How admirable of you! He told you to get out, and you really went outside! Hahahaha...
After you went out, a long while passed before he finally understood what happened. His face was so purple! Said the one disciple
He asks, and I answer. If he tells me to get out, I will get out. What else does he want me to do? Asked Hua Ying
Why does it seem like old man Lan is especially strict towards you? He always directs his scolding's at you. Asked Nie huaisang.
Wei-Ying was seeking his own death by saying that in front of Lan Qiren at Yunmeng it was still fine huffed Jiang Cheng, you're seeking your own death
No matter how I answered it, he wouldn't like me, he didn't from the moment we met last night, so I might as well just say what I wanted to say. Anyways, I didn't try to offend him. I was just answering properly. Said Hua Ying
That's enough. It's fine if you talk about it, but don't actually walk such a crooked path. Said Jiang Cheng
Why would I leave the nice, broad road, and walk on a single-plank bridge on a dark, narrow river instead? If it really is that easy, people would have already walked on it. Don't worry, he was just asking, and I was just answering. Hey, are you guys coming? Since it's not curfew yet, hunt for pheasants with me. Smiled Hua Ying (if only you knew who I really was you wouldn't say that to me nor would anyone reprimand me for my nature) he thought
What pheasants, they don't like the cold and anyway we were told to tell you to go copy righteousness three times so that you can learn what natural law and morality is. Sad Jaing Cheng sadly
Righteousness was the collection of the Lan Sect's sect rules. The sect rules here was too long, so Lan QiRen revised them into a thick collection. The sections Virtue and Conduct were four fifth of the whole book. Hua Ying sprang up and dusted his boots, "Three times? I'd fly up to Heaven if I just copied them once (we heard that). I'm not from the Lan Sect, and don't intend to marry into the Lan Clan, so why should I copy the sect rules of his sect? I'm not going to copy. He said irritably
I'll copy for you! I'll copy for you! Nie HuaiSang
And what do you want in return A-Sang asked Hua Ying
It's like this. A-Ying, old man Lan has a bad habit. He... Nie Huaisang started in the middle of his sentence, he suddenly paused and coughed drily, opening up his fan and shifting to the side.
Hua Ying knew that something was wrong. He turned around and saw Lan Zhan standing under an ancient, verdant tree and gazed in their direction, carrying his Bichen sword on his back. He looked like a jade tree, reflecting the mottled shadows of leaves and sunlight. However, his stare wasn't kind at all, as if it could lock them in a cavern made of ice. Everyone knew that their shouts were a bit too loud, and the noise had probably led him over, so they all shut their mouths. Yet, Hua Ying jumped down and started walking towards him.
Hua Ying waved while smiling, Lan Zhan.
Lan Zhan turned around and immediately walked away. Hua Ying cheerfully went after him and yelled, Lan Zhan, wait for me!
The white clothed figure flashed behind the tree, and suddenly disappeared without a trace, clearly showing that Lan Zhan did not want to Speak with him. Having received only a view from behind, Hua Ying threw himself dramatically into Jiang Cheng's arms and whined He ignored me.
It looks like he really hates you, A-Ying. Lan WangJi usually... No, he never does something so impolite. Said Nie Huaisang
He hates me already? How can he hate me when I have done almost nothing and also, I wanted to apologize to him. Hua Ying gives them puppy dog eyes
Wei Ying said Jiang Cheng as he rolls his eyes and pats his back, he is like his uncle, wait worse the thinks you're evil and unruly to the core.
Getting up and smiling mischievously unruly yes, evil, in one third and who cares if he ignored me, to me his pretty ice block heart needs melting said Hua Ying.
That night as Jiang Cheng was getting ready for bed.
What really did happen asked Jiang Cheng
Smiling do you want to know the complete full version without interruptions or the short-narrated version? Asked Hau Ying, then I can also tell shijie
Might as well make it right from the beginning so she can understand.
Shijie, shijie. It's me A-Xian if you aren't alone just listen, and no I am communication through the Wraith butterfly, you can talk back but if you are not alone then don't it will make you look crazy. A-Cheng said I must tell him about the last night I told him the shortened version now explain it all:
When we came, we lost our invitation, then we were waiting and decided it would be a great time to get the emperor's smile for us, so I went down and met my uncle and we sat and drank then I came back up and found you all gone, so I tried going in. There was a barrier so I broke it, when I just jumped onto the top of the wall, and I was caught by Lan Zhan and he said, those who return at night after curfew, won't be let in before seven in the morning he wanted me to move back out but I just spent effort jumping the wall and then, he came up closer, and asked me what I had in my hands. It's Emperor's Smile! If I share a jar with you, if you want and I Smiled, then he said Alcohol is forbidden And I asked, why don't you tell me what exactly is not forbidden in your sect? He seemed like he was a bit angry and wanted me to look at the Wall of Rules in front of the mountain. I gaped at him and said Honestly, there were over three thousand, and everything was written in seal script. Who would read them? Well After I said what I said about the rules he pulled out his sword and I danced away easily avoiding its touch, I slipped on a loose tile and that's how we broke a jar 'Okay, if alcohol is forbidden in the Cloud Recesses, then I just won't go in. I'll drink it sitting here, that won't count, will it? Then I drank everything in one gulp, right in front of him And then he came at me at me again, I was having so much fun dancing away that I didn't even think of using Suibian, I bought out 'light breeze' and deflected his sword with my fan then as he lunged I turned 'light breeze' into a parasol and he backed away surprised I think, then I asked him if he wanted to see something amazing he said ridiculous and I smirked so I said that is was not ridiculous and a bust into a swarm of golden butterflies and reappeared behind him and asked him if I kissed him would he forget that he saw me he spung around as I jumped away and a few of my wraith butterflies stayed fluttering by his side I laughed at him while dusting off my robe because he was trying to swat them away with his sword and told him they were harmless as long as he never physically hurt me they won't hurt him then he asked me if the butterflies were mine and I said that they were a gift from father then he asked me how I disappeared and I said I have two ways one of them being my golden wraith butterflies they can take me anywhere I desire as long as I think of the destination, which in this case I wanted to be behind the pretty boy and flirt with him, I think saying that I wanted to flirt with him made him angrier because he attacked me again finally giving up I let him catch me then he took me to where old man Qiren and Lan Huan, they asked what happened and I pouted and said that I didn't know because no one reads the rules that are over 3000 was and I was given a warning then I asked if I could request something and Lan Huan said yes and I asked if it was possible for me to go out at night and train and Lan Huan asked if I could elaborate on that and I told him the truth how I train and what I trained with they told me of a spot and offered that no guards be there and I said that won't be necessary because I use a talisman that my mother uses on me if mother and father want to have a private conversation and I showed it to them and Lan Huan said it was fine I thanked them and left.
(Right before he left)
Hua Ying saw the body under the white sheet, I'm sorry Lan Huan but, he is supposed to be breathing.
Pardon?
The person under the sheet was breathing as he came up through the barrier, Yunmeng sect and myself was there I saw him breathing said Hua Ying
Well then let me show you he said as he waved his hand and the sheet fell the person's face.
Going to the person, it was like it called to Hua Ying, he examined the body then stood up. I was right he is still alive but under control then he snapped his fingers and the person sat up and opened his eyes, once again he examined the person then laid him down, the person is there the soul so whatever tainted him has made him lose his conscious hence the eyes are white judging from the black veins I'd say dark energy was used much darker, then what you get from ghosts and ghouls more like never-ending pain and death.
So, this is like a puppet asked Lan Huan
Exactly the word I was looking for but I wonder who is pulling the strings thought Hua Ying
Thank you, Wei Ying your insight is most welcome said Lan Huan
It's nothing father, mother and I see a lot of weird things, to be taught is safer than to be caught unaware said Hua Ying Smiling.
I am going to the waterfall now to train if you don't mind and thank you once again. Hua Ying said and left)
You are more shameless than the girls at the brothels said Jiang Cheng
I just wanted to see if I could get a reaction Cheng, Cheng that is all pouted Hua Ying
Now I understand his reaction to you, so he can now see them as well? Asked Jiang Cheng
Yes, he can see my wraith butterflies as well and I think he secretly likes them just like he secretly likes me, anyway I am going to go now if father finds out I skipped one day he will lock me up in the arena again, using 'light breeze' this time.
No matter where is goes trouble always finds him said Jiang Cheng as he shakes his head and lies down.
At the waterfall behind cloud recesses
I wonder if he'll show thought Lan Zhan as he looked at the spot where Hua trained the previous night.
You're here again Wangji said Zewu-kun smiling
Mn
Are you making sure he doesn't cause trouble? Asked ZeWu-Jun
Mn (no I am actually watching him train since I can only see what happens)
I would very much like to see him in action and his 'the soul' to think a mysterious piece of wood that has been spelled, that changes into a spiritual training fighting tool said ZeWu-Jun
Mn (go away I am not here for the tool I am here for the boy)
Alright said ZeWu-Jun I will leave you to watch A-Ying, as he said that he saw the jealous look in this brother's eyes
(So, he does like him, let's see if I can do anything to push him a bit). Thought, ZeWu-Kun as he glanced one last time who was watching Hua Ying intently
Lan Zhan was thinking giving his brother automatic answers while thinking:
(His movements as fluent and graceful, more like a dance, why is it my heart beats abnormally when he nears, why do I want to hear his voice and that musical laughter? Five years ago, do you even remember? You were beautiful then, you are even more beautiful now, when you asked for a kiss, I really wanted to grab your waist I wanted to feel those soft red lips on mine and pull you in when I touched your fair pale ghostly skin, I wanted more but restrained myself, now every time I find myself here with my winged friend watching you train and I can't help but notice everything I want to go over and tell you.... tell you what? I don't even know myself.... I think you're my soulmate.... I think I am in love.... I believe I am crazy. What do you think of me? do you realize I get jealous of those two you hang out with? I don't want them touching you.... I must be crazy)
After three days of being in old Qiren class did he understand his bad habit, not only were the lessons boring and long that Hua Ying played with this Wraith butterflies and whispering secret flirty messages to Lan Zhan, (one of Hua Ying's wraith butterflies took a liking to him and staying seeing this he knew he just had to use it to his advantage)
(Lan Zhan it's me Wei Ying, this is another special talent of my golden beauties, amazing right?
Lan Zhan, they can also always find me if I am in this world.
Lan Zhan, can I call you wangji?
Wangji are look very handsome.
Wangji you should walk with me sometime I'd love to get to know you.
Wangji look at me.
Wangji am I pretty?
Don't pull that face I won't turned ice I love the being your hearts flame, I want to melt that cold interior and see what fun we can have.)
but there were also tests on the generational changes of important clans in the cultivation world, the division of their areas of power, famous quotes by famous cultivators, family trees... having learned and being tested on it almost every day at home he did not even pay the slightest attention to old man Qiren, on the other hand Nie HuaiSang worked as hard as a slave when the date of the test approached.
He copied Virtue two times for Hua Ying, and begged before the test, please, A-Ying, if my grade is lower than Yi, my brother would really break my legs! Stuff like telling apart direct lineage, collateral lineage, main clan, clan branches... For us disciples from big clans, we can't even distinguish our relationships with our own relatives, randomly calling everyone who are more than two tiers away from us aunts and uncles. Does anyone have enough capacity in their brain to remember those of other clans?! Cried Huaisang
Ok I will help you, only fair since my mother and ling Wen drilled this all into me at a young age. Sighed Hua Ying remembering those painfully boring books. As other heard that Hua Ying was tutoring Nie huaisang they started to ask him for help, as a result of cheating notes flying everywhere in the air, Lan WangJi suddenly attacked during the test, and caught a few initiators of the commotion. Lan QiRen exploded with anger, writing letters to the prominent clans to tell on them. He loathed Hua Ying in the beginning, although these disciples could hardly sit still, at least nobody started anything, and their buttocks were able to stick to their legs. However, now that Hua Ying came, the originally spineless brats were influenced by his encouragement, venturing out at night and drinking alcohol however they pleased. The unhealthy practices grew greater and greater. As he had expected, Hua Ying was one of the biggest threats to humanity! And so, Hua Ying was punished again.
At first, he didn't think too much of it. It was only copying texts, and he never lacked people who copied for him.
Yet, this time, Nie HuaiSang spoke, A-Ying, even if I want to help you, I can't any more.
What happened? Asked Hua Ying
Old... Mr. Lan said that you have to copy both Virtue and Conduct. He also said that, during the time of the punishment, nobody is allowed to fool around with you or copy them for you.
(Conduct was the most complicated section of the twelve sections in the Lan Sect's sect rules. It cited a lot of classics, was terribly long, and had a lot of rarely-used characters. Copy it one time, and one would lose all interest in life. Copy it ten times, and one would fly to Heaven on the spot.)
How would he know if someone copied them for me or not? Surely it doesn't mean that he's making someone watch me. Wondered Hua Ying
That's exactly the case. Said Jiang Cheng
...
Sighing He told you that you're not allowed to go outside and have to go to the Library Pavilion to copy, and also face the wall and reflect upon your mistakes. Of course, there will be someone to watch you. I don't need to tell you who he is, do I? Asked Jiang Cheng