章 229: The Fate of Liu Xinyou
The secluded retreat of Xuelan Hall, known as the Hiding Heart Residence, has long served as the dwelling of Ye Wuji within the royal palace of Lan Kingdom. It was here that he tutored Lan Yixuan, and after Lan Yixuan's departure, the place remained abandoned until recently, when it was tidied up once more.
Lei An led Liu Xinyou at the forefront, with Lei Yun and Lan Yixuan trailing behind. Liu Xinyou struggled to suppress the tumultuous emotions surging within her. She was acutely aware that this was a trap set specifically by Lan Yixuan. At this moment, she ought to turn and leave, yet she found herself unable to control her impulses, yearning to relive the days spent with her senior brother on Tianshan Mountain—a dream that had lingered for over twenty years. Even knowing that ahead lay a treacherous path filled with danger, she felt compelled to charge forward. For two decades, she had lived like a mere shadow, haunted by dreams of being with her senior brother. Whether it was love or hatred, those feelings had become the driving force of her existence. As she deliberately slowed her pace, she wished to conceal her emotions, yet the effort only betrayed her urgency.
Lan Yixuan walked leisurely, fully aware of Liu Xinyou's desires. If she weren't so deeply affected, she wouldn't be here at all. Such a person had long ceased to harbor any genuine affection for life; what occupied her thoughts was her obsession—her master, Ye Wuji.
He had envisioned a thousand and one ways to exact revenge because of Xuan Yue, yet now he resolved to fulfill her dream only to shatter it utterly. She had endured such pain once before, transforming into the person she was now; this time, he would bring her to her knees. Over the years, she had sustained everything with a heart full of hatred—what would happen if that hatred vanished? Wouldn't all her efforts over these years seem cold and absurd?
Liu Xinyou followed Lei An into the Hiding Heart Residence, where Ye Wuji sat at the entrance, engrossed in a book. The night's glow mingled with the moonlight, casting a serene light upon his face. Clad in a blue robe, he appeared as he always had, quietly reading, his expression gentle. For a moment, Liu Xinyou found herself entranced.
Back on Tianshan, she had always relished the chaos, never allowing her senior brother's gaze to stray from her. Yet she adored the way he immersed himself in his books; she would sit beside him, chin resting in her hands, silently watching him. Now, however, everything had changed. She might have lived her life blissfully innocent had it not been for the one she cherished most destroying everything she held dear.
"Do you see?" Lan Yixuan observed her, sensing her immersion in memories of the past. In this moment, her heart harbored not just hatred but also lingering affection. It wouldn't be long before love and hate reached a precarious balance within her. At that moment, he would push her from behind, eager to share the unspeakable pain he felt—he wished for her to experience it as well.
Liu Xinyou glanced at Lan Yixuan, his demeanor serene and his smile warm yet distant, evoking an irresistible longing. It was this quality that made him truly formidable: beneath his smile lay a profound hatred. Yet she felt no fear; she had long since become numb to pain. What more could she worry about?
She shot him a cold glance, attempting to rush inside, only to be halted by Lan Yixuan. "Aren't you afraid my master might see you and flee?"
His tone was nonchalant, his lips curling into a flawless smile. Yet Liu Xinyou felt a shiver run through her heart—after more than twenty years, she had almost forgotten what it felt like to be pierced by such emotions.
Indeed, her senior brother did not wish to see her; otherwise, how could he have avoided her for five or six years without a trace? He had deliberately eluded her, prompting her to exhaust herself in search of the Phoenix Maiden, all in hopes that one day he would come to her, begging for her aid. She envisioned herself laughing, declaring that the emperor he had painstakingly nurtured could never be with the Phoenix Maiden, and in that moment, she would feel true joy.
Ye Wuji looked up from his book, startled by the sudden appearance of Liu Xinyou. His hand trembled slightly before he regained his composure, the calm demeanor he was known for returning. He had anticipated that only she could manage to draw him away from his tranquil solitude.
As Lan Yixuan entered, he appeared regal in his purple robe, illuminated by the moonlight, a faint smile gracing his lips. Even now, he embodied perfection, like a carefully crafted painting—impeccable in every detail.
Approaching Ye Wuji, Lan Yixuan greeted him with a polite bow. "Master, I have something to discuss."
As he spoke, he cast a glance at Liu Xinyou, whose silvery hair cascaded like a waterfall, shimmering in the night. Her youthful visage was etched with tension, her gaze fixated on this direction, imbued with fervent anticipation. Lan Yixuan smiled, clearly pleased by Liu Xinyou's reaction.
He exchanged glances with Lei Yun, who swiftly moved to close the door. Liu Xinyou peered through the small gap, her eyes lingering on Ye Wuji. Her heart was still full of hatred, wishing to strike down the one she loathed, yet she knew she was incapable of it. To love deeply and to hate equally—this was all because she could not let go of him.
The interior was sparsely furnished: a table, a few chairs, and a couch, with a somewhat aged sword hanging nearby. The simplicity mirrored Ye Wuji himself—uncomplicated yet strikingly pure.
"Yixuan," Ye Wuji sighed, feeling a sense of helplessness regarding the student he had painstakingly raised. He understood his character well. While he claimed to aim for the world, he had always remained indifferent. Only the girl named Feng Xianyue had captured his unwavering resolve since that night in Pan City. He had tried to dissuade him, but to no avail. Perhaps it was destined to lead to this very outcome.
"Master, you know what I wish to say."
He had resided in the Hiding Heart Residence for five years, and everything Lan Yixuan achieved today was thanks to him—be it Liu Xinyou, Xuan Yue, or even his master; all were profoundly insightful individuals.
Ye Wuji sighed, gazing through the tightly shut window at the outside world. His gentle eyes bore an unexpected tenderness, imbued with a celestial aura of compassion. That person was not merely his beloved but also his closest kin. Though he could not deny feeling regret, many things were irreversible. The path behind him had vanished, yet he felt comforted by having such an outstanding student, surpassing even his own achievements. However, worry now overshadowed that pride.
He understood what Lan Yixuan sought to convey. Presently, his only goal was to take revenge on Xinyou. In matters of love, he and Xinyou were quite similar—both exceedingly obsessive—while Xuan Yue resembled him more; love could not simply be relinquished with ease. The person in one's heart could not simply be dismissed, yet one would silently bear all the burdens.
"Could you not, for my sake, allow the past to remain in the past?" He recognized Lan Yixuan's naivety. This student was more perceptive than himself, aware of what could bring someone to ruin.
"I have said, I do not seek Liu Xinyou's life."
Lan Yixuan turned to face Ye Wuji, his usual casual tone now tinged with an edge. Regardless of Ye Wuji's pleas, he had no intention of ending Liu Xinyou's life. To kill someone was far too easy and would sully his own hands.
Ye Wuji sighed again. This time, Xinyou had truly overstepped. Though he could not refute Lan Yixuan's actions, he wished to protect Xinyou from harm. Ultimately, the events of the past were his fault; he bore a share of responsibility for how things had evolved to this point. Even if he wished to intervene, it might be too late.
It appeared Xuan Yue must have discovered the matter by now. That sentimental girl would not neglect her brother. If Lan Yixuan harbored resentment, it would undoubtedly consume him once he claimed the world. A man who once had no obsessions, now possessed what he desired; if he were unable to retain it—
"What do you expect me to do?"
Night Wujie gazed at Lan Yixuan, adorned in elegant purple garments, embodying opulence and grace, yet only serving as a backdrop to his brilliance. In this world, only a woman like the Phoenix King was worthy of him. He desired her but could not attain her; this sentiment, he understood deeply. Since he wished to exact revenge on Liu Xinyou, he might as well fulfill that wish.
Over the years, one had strived for the greater good of the world, while the other sought to cause destruction. Yet, both harbored love for one another in their hearts. For over twenty years, it was not only Liu Xinyou who bore the pain and solitude; he, too, felt the burden. Watching her silver strands of hair, his heart bled.
"I act only to fulfill Master's wishes. As long as you do not evade, is it not the day you have long awaited for all these years? Now that the opportunity presents itself, we must cherish it. As for everything else, I will handle it; Master, you know what must be done."
Night Wujie was aware of Liu Xinyou's feelings for him throughout these years. Had it not been for the Tianshan Sect leader's deathly threat, he would never have left Liu Xinyou, perhaps averting the current tragedy, and perhaps his life would have taken a different path.
He sighed as he watched Lan Yixuan depart, despair closing his eyes. Everything was fated; he had wronged Xinyou and owed Xuanyuan, leaving him to bear it all alone, enough was enough.
At the door, Lan Yixuan observed the anxious Liu Xinyou on the steps. This person appeared cold and unfeeling, yet her emotions were more fervent and obsessive than anyone else's. Night Wujie was her Achilles' heel; if he could seize upon that weakness, perhaps he could control the outcome at will.
"May I enter?" Liu Xinyou coldly regarded Lan Yixuan. He pressed his lips together, casting her a fleeting glance with his characteristic calm demeanor, yet his jade-like eyes glimmered with a sword-like coldness, making Liu Xinyou shiver involuntarily, momentarily stunned. She quickly regained her usual indifference; what was there to fear? She had never expected Lan Yixuan to act out of genuine goodwill. Whether in a den of dragons or a lair of tigers, life or death mattered little to her now. This was merely the final chapter of her life. She was weary after these years, and even her hatred had suddenly lost its vigor. She longed for a quiet place to rest. If she could relive moments with her elder brother, even death would be worth it. The person she cherished most, the feelings she valued deeply, had already departed over a decade ago, leaving her with nothing.
"Yes," Lan Yixuan replied softly. Before he could finish, he saw Liu Xinyou rush inside. He turned to look into the room, standing frozen in place. The two exchanged fleeting smiles, their gentle gazes betraying no hint of triumph.
"Young Master."
Lei Yun approached Lan Yixuan respectfully, casting a quick glance at Liu Xinyou and Night Wujie within, quickly grasping the situation. Any onlooker could see the depth of Liu Xinyou's feelings for Night Wujie, burning like an all-consuming fire. He was uncertain of Lan Yixuan's intentions but, having followed him closely for over a decade, he sensed Lan Yixuan's emotional turmoil. He despised Liu Xinyou.
"Let us go."
Lan Yixuan offered a cursory glance at Lei An, saying nothing more as he left Bixinyu. At the door, he glanced up at the plaque above: Bixinyu, a place to escape the one who resided in his heart. Yet now, the person he longed for was right before him. With a love unwavering, how could he evade this relationship? What should have been a shared emotion instead drew many into shared suffering. If pain was to be endured, let them all endure it together.
Liu Xinyou stood at the entrance, staring vacantly at Night Wujie, who stood beside the table. The last time had been at night, in the dimly lit alley, where she had been unable to see clearly. In that moment, she felt so wretched that she dared not open her eyes to face this man, who had been so infatuated for decades.
Compared to their time in Tianshan, he appeared older now, with silver strands at his temples and wrinkles on his face. Yet even so, he remained as handsome as ever, radiating warmth like fine jade. He stood silently just a meter away from her, still the same man she remembered. Even in age, he was still her elder brother in her heart, and that feeling had not changed in the slightest. The depth of love had only intensified, deepened by time. Looking at him evoked memories of their beautiful past, alongside the painful memory of his heartless abandonment during their wedding. The sweetness of happiness now felt tinged with hidden pain, a sensation she could not articulate.
"You've come," Night Wujie said, dressed in green, gliding through the night. A faint smile graced his lips, candlelight flickering in the evening breeze, accompanied by the lamplight beneath the eaves and the radiant moonlight, casting a soft glow upon his face. This gentle light accentuated his ethereal presence, as if he were destined to ascend to the heavens. His eyes, still filled with warmth when gazing at another, were now shrouded in a myriad of emotions, a vortex with immense allure into which Liu Xinyou fell without hesitation once more.
Night Wujie looked at Liu Xinyou, feeling a pang of heartache within his long-stilled heart. This was all his fault; that innocent girl had now been consumed by hatred. He bore the responsibility for everything that transpired.
Approaching Liu Xinyou, he sighed softly, tenderly arranging the disheveled strands of hair blown by the night wind. His gaze lingered, "You shouldn't have come."
He knew Xuanyuan's temperament and methods well. If he took action, he would surely achieve his desired outcome. Being a man so enraptured by love, he surely considered taking lives to be beneath him. While he refrained from murder, he possessed countless ways to make others wish for death.
As Night Wujie's warm fingertips brushed her cheek, Liu Xinyou closed her eyes, tears spilling from her corners. Nearly two decades of deep-seated hatred suddenly evaporated in an instant. She grasped Night Wujie's hand tightly, memories of their beautiful past flashing before her. In the midst of her tears, laughter unexpectedly bubbled forth.
All along, she had believed her heart was numb, impervious to pain or sorrow, and that she would never know the taste of happiness. Yet now, she cried and laughed, realizing she was still capable of feeling. It was just that the one who had ignited her emotions had never been by her side.
"Master Brother," she murmured, eyes closed, as if ensconced in a dream. In her eyes, this scene seemed only possible in dreams. Her Master Brother tenderly caressed her face, recalling the joy of their youthful days, moments that would never manifest in reality.
Since the last time at Pansheng, she had pondered what she would do if she saw him again; she had resolved to kill him without hesitation. Yet now, standing before him, she could not bring herself to do it. If this were indeed a dream, she hoped never to awaken from it.
Perhaps Yue'er was right; she was indeed a fanatic, a deranged lover who clung obsessively to her desires. Everything she had done was for the sake of this moment's warmth, regardless of the cost. Now, she had finally arrived. From the moment her heart had been left in the hands of the man named Night Wujie, it had been reduced to dust.
Why should she not have come? At this moment, her heart felt no regret.
"I'm sorry, Xinyou," Night Wujie sighed, recalling the little junior sister who once nestled in his embrace, often seeking his affection. A pang of sorrow surged within him as he tucked away her silver strands, unable to express his profound compassion. Throughout his life, Night Wujie had lived uprightly and honorably. If he truly owed anyone, it was this woman whom he cherished dearly.
Liu Xinyou said nothing, opening her eyes to suddenly envelop Night Wujie tightly in her arms, sobbing uncontrollably. The suffering, the struggles, and the yearning of all these years had etched themselves into her very bones, exhausting her spirit. She felt sadness and grievance, struggling to comprehend why the Master Brother she had held as her guiding faith had abandoned her on the day of his wedding. In that moment, she had to endure the excruciating pain of death as two of her closest loved ones left her side. Once revered as the jewel of Tianshan, she had been reduced to a laughingstock in the eyes of the world. For someone who had been cherished and protected since childhood, this was a devastating blow. Even now, she could scarcely recall what she had done during that time, as if it had been a nightmare that left her utterly spent.
Suddenly, she realized how foolish she had been. Perhaps Xianyue was right to call her a lunatic; she truly had not been mistaken. All the pain of the past two decades dissipated with those simple words of apology, and in his warm embrace, her heart—frozen for over twenty years—began.
Liu Xinyou pushed aside Ye Wuji and wiped her tears. "Senior Brother, I am now left with nothing. Is it possible that it could get any worse?" With nothing to lose and feeling like a walking corpse, she pondered what there was to worry about. She had come with the resolve of one already dead; perhaps she had resigned herself to being a ghost. At this moment, her heart felt surprisingly open, devoid of hysterical screams or bitter accusations.
"Senior Brother, I suddenly feel so weary, as if my life has reached its end."
All her reluctance stemmed from the presence of this person before her. Yet now, with him so unexpectedly close, she lacked the strength to pursue any questions, fearing that the deluge of accusations and resentments might scare him away.
In her current state, she felt she had lived enough. The innocence of her youth had been the most beautiful period of her life. She had experienced joys that others had not and had also fallen to the depths of despair. She had tasted every facet of life, both the joyful and the sorrowful. The tight nerves stretched by jealousy and scheming suddenly relaxed, and the hatred that had supported her for so many years dissipated in an instant. She found herself lost, as if her previously steadfast direction in life had vanished, leaving her with nothing to hold onto.
Liu Xinyou approached the door and, disregarding the chilly autumn night, sat down on the ground. Ye Wuji snapped back to reality, fetched a cloak from the room, and draped it over her shoulders. Liu Xinyou turned, and despite the change of time and place, the scene felt eerily familiar.
"Senior Brother, how long has it been since we sat together like this in silence?" Liu Xinyou smiled, the impulse to see him suffer fading the moment she laid eyes on him. Had he turned to leave like last time in Pan City, she might have harbored resentment, but now, she felt a strange satisfaction. Lan Yixuan had promised to marry them, a long-cherished dream of hers. She thought that if she could become his wife, she would willingly die in his arms.
"Xinyou, you are too obsessed."
Ye Wuji sat beside her, understanding the actions she had taken, though he felt she should not have acted as she did towards Xuan Yue. Perhaps everything was indeed preordained; he owed Xinyou, and as the architect of their troubles, he should bring closure to their story.
Though Ye Wuji did not explicitly mention any specific events, Liu Xinyou understood his implications. She had no regrets about Xuan Yue. Had it not been for the love poison, she might never have been able to sit quietly with her Senior Brother. If she had any regrets, it was that she had not prepared an antidote. Otherwise, she could have used it as a bargaining chip. If Lan Yixuan could persuade her Senior Brother for a moment, surely he could do so for a lifetime. With that, her beautiful dream could last a little longer, until she naturally departed from this world. By then, all the suffering she had endured could heal, allowing her to leave with a smile.
"Young Master Lan said you were here, so I came. I know he hates me now, wishing to kill me, but I fear nothing. Death is the least of my worries. Senior Brother, if you wish to harm me, I won't flinch. I am no longer filled with hatred, only happiness, knowing that you have felt guilt all these years. Yet, I do not want your guilt; I want you to feel discomfort. If you do not wish to see me, I will linger by your side, appearing before you each day. Look at me now, a specter of my former self. I have become this way because of you. If you truly wish to make amends, then let us spend this time together and marry me."
This was her obsessive dream. If everything Lan Yixuan had said before had not strengthened her resolve, then this last sentence struck deep within her heart. She longed to fulfill the unfinished dream with her Senior Brother.
Ye Wuji remained silent, gazing up at the star-filled sky, inhaling deeply. After a long pause, he turned to meet Liu Xinyou's gaze, nodding solemnly and saying, "Alright."
For nearly twenty years, this obsession had consumed Liu Xinyou, and this unfinished business was equally his greatest regret.
"Once we are wed, we shall return to Tianshan and live as we once did."
For nearly two decades, he had not been truly indifferent; she had always occupied a place in his heart. Even with an outstanding student like Xuan Er, he felt a lingering sense of loss. After leaving Tianshan all those years ago, he had constantly worried about Xinyou but felt unworthy to face her. These past twenty years had not been kind to him either. Making Xinyou his wife was a promise he had made as a child. Over the years, due to his promise to his master and the responsibilities he bore, he had already betrayed one person. Therefore, he could only strive to fulfill the commitment he had made to his master. Xinyou said she was tired, weary, and he felt the same.
"Really?"
Liu Xinyou turned, her eyes filled with anticipation and joy as she gazed at Ye Wuji, delight radiating from her face. Ye Wuji gently caressed her cheek, a subtle smile curving his lips. The warmth of his affection and concern lent him a more human presence as he nodded, "Really?"
Liu Xinyou stared at Ye Wuji, tears welling in her eyes, yet she laughed like a child, leaning back into his embrace and gazing at the night sky. In that moment, she felt the future was beautiful, unaware of the impending storm that awaited her.
The Yelan Hall was silent at night, with only Lan Yixuan alone in the study. Since Xuan Yue's departure, after handling state affairs, he often found himself solitary, either seated at the desk or standing by the window, his expression as dark and cold as the night itself.
Suddenly, the study door swung open. Lan Yixuan lifted his gaze and cast a fleeting glance at the newcomer, his deep-set eyes revealing no surprise.
"I just visited the Bixinyuan. Those two are either quietly reading or observing one another. How blissfully harmonious they appear! I've heard that recently, they often play the guqin and practice swordsmanship together, resembling immortal lovers."
Gong Shaohua entered, her exquisite makeup flawless as always, radiating an air of nobility. However, the slight arch of her phoenix eyes added a touch of sharpness to the deepening night.
Gong Shaohua approached Lan Yixuan, her smile concealing an indescribable jealousy. This familiar face, etched in her heart for over thirty years, belonged to the child of the palace master and that wretched woman. She often pondered how wonderful it would be if this child were hers and the palace master's; such a remarkable child would have been cherished and adored in her palm, and she would have effortlessly removed all obstacles in their path. Moreover, if the palace master had even the slightest affection for her, she wouldn't have ended up in her current state.
"Xuan'er, you are not such a kind-hearted person," she said, her voice dripping with a thin veneer of warmth that barely concealed the bitterness beneath.
Just moments ago, before coming to find Lan Yixuan, she had visited the Bai Xin residence. Under the soft glow of the lamps, the couple shared a harmonious smile, especially the blissful expression on Liu Xinyou's face, which stirred a profound sense of bitterness within her. Why did Liu Xinyou, that neither human nor ghost woman, now bask in the company of the man she adored? What right did that arrogant and insolent woman have to find happiness? She felt a fierce indignation and resentment; how could others have what she could not? Although she knew Lan Yixuan would not permit Liu Xinyou to remain blissful for long, witnessing it was still intolerably vexing.
"Feeling uncomfortable?" Lan Yixuan's voice was slow and languid, betraying no discernible emotion. He could imagine the turmoil in Gong Shaohua's heart upon witnessing that scene. This self-centered and extreme woman, who could not tolerate anyone else's happiness if she herself did not have it, had never ceased to harm Liu Xinyou since the day she learned of his feelings for her. She had meticulously schemed to tear them apart and, upon discovering Liu Xinyou had been poisoned by the love flower, had gone to great lengths to bring her to his side. Everything she did was merely a selfish maneuver for her own benefit.
"What do I have to be dissatisfied about? The higher one climbs, the harder one falls. No matter what one gains, in the end, there is always a corresponding price to pay. Xuan'er, you have never been a good person."
Though she voiced such sentiments, Gong Shaohua could not deny the discomfort within her. After a decade, she had yet to see the palace master, while Liu Xinyou had been granted that privilege. The sight of her smile drove her to madness, instilling an urgency in her heart—a desperate yearning to see the palace master, to lay eyes on that exquisitely elegant man.
Lan Yixuan pressed his lips together. He conceded that he had never been a good person. Moreover, Liu Xinyou had inflicted immense harm upon Xuan Yue. If not for her, he would not be alone in this desolate Xuelan Palace, a place where he had spent over ten years. Although he had grown accustomed to it, the sudden presence of another person, followed by their abrupt departure, had stripped away the tranquility of his heart, leaving him feeling somewhat cynical. He began to understand the sentiments of Liu Xinyou and Gong Shaohua, the desire to see the world brought to ruin.
"Compared to Liu Xinyou, your plight is even more tragic."
Lan Yixuan's tone remained calm, yet that calmness only heightened Gong Shaohua's frustration.
"All these years, Master has never forgotten Liu Xinyou, while you, despite all your efforts, have never been held in his heart. No matter how closely you mimic her face and actions, how she frowns or smiles, you will never replace the queen mother."
Years ago, upon learning of Xuelan Luo's feelings for Gong Shaoxue, Gong Shaohua had instinctively imitated her, eventually forcing Gong Shaoxue to leave. But what good did it do? Xuelan Luo remained indifferent to her, and later, after Gong Shaoxue fell victim to Gong Shaohua's schemes, she preferred to blind herself rather than look at her again. Liu Xinyou's obsession stemmed from her past happiness with Ye Wujing, and upon their reunion, they seemed like celestial lovers once more. Yet Gong Shaohua? Even if she willingly played the role of a substitute, Xuelan Luo held her in contempt. Even Lan Wang, who had spent decades by her side, merely regarded her as a shadow of Gong Shaoxue. How could the proud and competitive Gong Shaohua bear such indignities?
A crack appeared on her exquisitely crafted face, slowly becoming more pronounced until it shattered completely. Lan Yixuan's words had pierced the very heart of her pain, a subject she deemed a shame too great to be mentioned. To this day, she could not fathom what made Gong Shaoxue so admirable. In what way was she inferior? The palace master, even that weak and inept Lan Wang, had not forgotten her; knowing Lan Yixuan was not his son, he still insisted on bequeathing the throne to him. Out of so many sons, the one he cherished most was that wretched child born of a scandal. Ultimately, he disregarded decades of loyalty to her in favor of that illegitimate child. She simply could not accept it. In this world, since Gong Shaohua already existed, why must there also be a Gong Shaoxue? If there was already a Gong Shaoxue, what significance did Gong Shaohua hold?
"So what? Xuan'er, no matter how capable you are, all these years you have had to endure humiliation and recognize the thief as your mother." Each time Lan Yixuan referred to her as queen mother in front of others, it filled her with an indescribable pleasure—a sense of revenge. Even if Gong Shaoxue was dead, the thought of how heartbroken she would be upon seeing this scene brought her joy.
"You wish to kill me to avenge your mother, yet here I am, living well. Compared to me, how much better are you and Liu Xinyou? Now that Liu Xinyou is happy, so what? It cannot last. In the end, she will end up just like me, or perhaps even more tragically. And you? How are you any better than I? Yue'er is a good girl, but your happiness is not destined. What does it matter if you two are in love? The more you love her, the more you will suffer." Gong Shaohua looked at Lan Yixuan, a triumphant smile escaping her lips. The heart-wrenching taste of yearning and unattainable love she experienced was worse than her current plight—this doomed relationship was a source of despair.
Lan Yixuan's heart tightened, the smile on his face unchanging, yet it appeared somewhat rigid, forced.
"If you were Liu Xinyou, would you come here?"
Lan Yixuan sat up straighter, tapping the table rhythmically, arching an eyebrow as he observed Gong Shaohua's suddenly stiff smile with remarkable patience.
"If one day you meet her, would you act recklessly like Liu Xinyou?"
Lan Yixuan inquired once more, a chilling smile gracing his lips.
Across the table, Gong Shaohua stood, gazing at Lan Yixuan, who sat composedly. Her exquisite phoenix eyes flickered before she resolutely replied, "I would!"
She, like Liu Xinyou, was a person consumed by the madness of love. If it meant seeing the one she adored, she would dare to face any peril, even a mountain of knives or a sea of flames. She chuckled at the thought that for the past decade, she had been unsure of what could sustain her cold heart if she were not entangled in the intrigues of the court. Yet now, it suddenly seemed that all of it was merely fleeting, ephemeral; even the highest honors could not fill the void of her lonely, frigid heart. Power, by its very nature, was devoid of warmth, and not even a single word of concern from that person could compare.
Over the years, she had scoured every corner in search of the monarch's whereabouts, but even now, knowing where he was, she found it impossible to see him. His image haunted her dreams; even her fantasies were dominated by his face. For him, what could she not forsake? If he could smile at her as gently as Ye Wuji did with Liu Xinyou, her life would be complete. If that day ever came, she would ensure he would never leave her side again; she would wield all her power to keep him close.
"Xuan Er, you should understand my feelings."
Gong Shaohua let out a light laugh, rife with unspoken mockery. What Lan Yixuan was experiencing now was the bitter fruit of unrequited love—something she herself had deeply understood in the past. "Do you see it now, Shaoxue? Because of you, I have endured such suffering, and now your beloved son bears the same burden. I have grown numb to my pain, but his is only beginning."
Lan Yixuan chuckled softly. He understood; in matters of the heart, he had become akin to Liu Xinyou and Gong Shaohua of yore. Perhaps he was selfish, but he respected Xuan Yue more than anyone else. Instead of clinging to her amidst her joys and sorrows, he wished for her happiness. If letting her go meant she could find joy and freedom, then he would release her. Even if his heart ached, he would bear it alone, believing that one day, they would be together.
"Xuan Er, I will watch you suffer for a lifetime. And when the grand performance begins, be sure to inform me."
After saying this, Gong Shaohua shot a glance at Lan Yixuan, bursting into laughter as she turned and strode away. She was not the only one bearing the weight of suffering; she was not alone in her pain.
"Young Master."
Lei Yun and Lei An had remained in the study of Xuelan Palace. They had rushed over when Gong Shaohua arrived and stood quietly by the door, listening intently to the exchange. While Lei An remained perplexed, Lei Yun had caught on to some hints; both could clearly sense Lan Yixuan's displeasure, and they stood in silence.
"Begin preparations for Master and Liu Xinyou's wedding." It was time for everything to come to a resolution.
The once desolate Xuelan Palace, after years of silence, was finally about to celebrate joyous events, for the King's master, the Grand Tutor, was to wed.
During Lan Yixuan's absence from Xuelan Palace, every blade of grass and every tree retained the essence of his departure. Even the attendants remained unchanged, so they were all familiar with Ye Wuji. It was surprising that this ethereal, aloof man was now about to marry, prompting a mix of astonishment and envy among them. Though the bride was adorned with silver hair, she appeared no different from a girl in her twenties. Over this time, they had shared joyous moments playing music and practicing swordsmanship, almost like celestial beings. Ye Wuji treated every servant with equal respect, never looking down upon anyone, which only added to the general jubilation over this happy occasion in Xuelan Palace.
At Bixin Pavilion, lanterns adorned every corner as Liu Xinyou rose early, allowing the palace maids to expertly don her with a phoenix crown and ceremonial robes. Gazing at her reflection in the mirror, though her hair was silver, it did nothing to diminish her extraordinary beauty. Her petite face held a charm unlike that of her peers, and the depth of her eyes, touched by the passage of time, radiated a youthful blush reminiscent of a blossoming flower.
"Madam, you look truly beautiful."
The maid helping Liu Xinyou cooed sweetly, eliciting a gentle laugh from Liu Xinyou. She waved her hand dismissively, signaling everyone to leave, and turned to the newly added dressing mirror, her smile growing ever more radiant, her eyes sparkling with youthful exuberance.
As she caressed her face, though it bore the faint traces of age, this moment marked the happiest she had experienced in decades. She was finally marrying her beloved senior brother; after a life of upheaval, she could now close this chapter with satisfaction. After tonight, there would be no regrets, and she could leave with a smile.
She knew Lan Yixuan would not easily let her go, and tonight would be the perfect opportunity for revenge. Yet, within her heart, there was no bitterness; she understood all too well how far one might go for love. Before she departed this world, she felt fulfilled, cherishing this moment of joy, free from regrets. In fact, she was grateful. Had it not been for Lan Yixuan, perhaps she would have spent her life steeped in hatred. Until now, she would never have experienced such bliss.
"Senior Brother." Liu Xinyou glanced at Ye Wuji, who was approaching her through the mirror. He had changed from his azure robes into a splendid red wedding garment, radiating vitality and handsomeness.
Ye Wuji stood behind Liu Xinyou, placing his hands gently on her shoulders as he admired her reflection, his gaze brimming with tenderness. "Little Junior Sister, you look stunning today."
Liu Xinyou, beaming with happiness, grasped Ye Wuji's hand resting on her shoulder. "Senior Brother, could you please paint my eyebrows as you used to?" Her calm and gentle voice bore no trace of the sharp and cynical girl she once was.
"Of course." Ye Wuji picked up the brow pencil from the table, leaning closer, carefully drawing her brows. After nearly twenty years, his movements were slightly stiff, yet the tenderness in his expression remained unchanged.
"Senior Brother, no matter what happens in the future, let us return to Tianshan together, shall we?"
She blinked her eyes, her sparkling gaze devoid of the madness it once held, radiating the innocent charm of a child. Noticing that Ye Wujie had yet to respond, Liu Xinyou furrowed her brows and pouted, continuing, "Senior Brother, please say something, won't you?"
Ye Wujie chuckled softly, his brow and eyes as gentle as jade. After a long pause, he finally replied, "Alright."
A satisfied smile graced Liu Xinyou's lips as she turned back to the mirror, admiring the delicate contour of her eyebrows, perfectly suiting her expression of happiness. Grasping Ye Wujie's hand tightly, she gazed at their faces reflected in the glass. "Senior Brother, I cannot live without you. From now on, wherever you go, you must take me with you, understand?"
Ye Wujie smiled, resembling a benevolent elder, and nodded in agreement.
"And you must also take me with you, little junior sister," he added. "That way, we won't be alone."
Without a wedding host, blessings from various guests, or a banquet to celebrate, the once lively Bixin Residence fell into an unusual quiet as night descended, yet the two of them relished the tranquility.
The walls of the room were adorned with vibrant red wedding posters, while the bed was draped with a scarlet silk quilt embroidered with mandarin ducks entwined together. A pair of red candles flickered on the table—everything befitting a wedding was present.
Having served as witnesses to the heavens, Ye Wujie and Liu Xinyou completed their vows and sat across from each other at the tea table positioned directly opposite the door. The moonlight was splendid that night, the moon round and bright, and the inky sky was speckled with stars that paled in comparison to the Tianshan Mountains, where one could almost reach up and pluck the stars from the sky.
"Senior Brother," Liu Xinyou called out, looking at Ye Wujie across from her, and tears streamed down her face. She had awaited this day for so long that she had nearly forgotten how much time had passed.
"I can't be dreaming, can I?" At that moment, she realized how much she had longed for this. On every quiet night, as soon as she closed her eyes, she would dream of this beautiful moment, reliving an incomplete wedding that had been a constant in her dreams for over twenty years. Now that it had truly come to pass, she found it hard to believe.
"No, it's real," Ye Wujie softly assured her, his eyes filled with tender affection and deep reluctance. "Little junior sister, this is indeed true." He reached out, smiling as he wiped away her tears, and Liu Xinyou took his hand, laughing through her tears.
"Little junior sister, you have suffered for twenty years," he remarked, acknowledging the pain she had endured. Ultimately, he felt that he had let Liu Xinyou down. The grand events of the world seemed destined to unfold in a particular manner, and whether or not he was involved, it would not change. Perhaps everyone—himself, Liu Xinyou, Xuan Er, and Yue Er—would have been far happier had he not pursued his ambitions, believing that everything he did was in accordance with fate, while, in reality, it only brought great suffering to those he cared about.
"Senior Brother, let's drink to our union," she suggested. She was uncertain when Lan Yixuan would act, but at least she wished for the wedding she had desired for twenty years to conclude perfectly.
"Senior Brother, do you remember how mischievous I was as a child? I loved sneaking into my father's wine cellar to steal drinks. Whenever he caught me, he would give me a good scolding."
Ye Wujie chuckled, a hint of sympathy in his eyes. "I know you didn't genuinely enjoy drinking; you merely wanted to catch Master's attention, hoping he would care for you more."
Liu Xinyou smiled with satisfaction. "But he never did care for me. Senior Brother, do you remember the pear blossom grove where we used to practice swordplay? After we return, let's build a little cabin there. Every day, you can play the zither for me, alright? Having you is more than enough for me."
Liu Xinyou leaned against Ye Wujie's arm, playfully behaving like a child.
Ye Wujie's smile was warm, yet dressed in red, he appeared increasingly frail, his complexion slightly pale under the glow of the lanterns. "Alright. Little junior sister, you must take good care of yourself wherever you are. I will always be by your side. Don't shed tears so easily; your smile is the most beautiful thing. Life is fleeting, whether filled with joy or sorrow, it will eventually pass. So, learn to be optimistic, strong, and find happiness within yourself."
Liu Xinyou listened quietly but suddenly felt something was amiss. Looking up, she was startled by the pallor of Ye Wujie's face and reached out to touch it, finding it icy cold.
"Senior Brother, what's wrong?"
Ye Wujie grasped her hand, shaking his head gently. "Xinyou, promise me, do not harbor resentment. This is our debt to Yue Er and Xuan Er; now is the time for us to repay it." Ye Wujie's expression was serene, concealing any turmoil, yet the twitching of his lips and the ashen hue of his face betrayed his pain.
"Senior Brother, what is wrong with you? Did Lan Yixuan do something to you? This is treachery! It was I who placed the love flower curse on Yue Er, it was I who tore them apart! This is all my fault; he cannot treat you this way!"
As she spoke, Liu Xinyou rushed out, but Ye Wujie held her back. "It's a fleeting spell, and this has nothing to do with Xuan Er."
Upon hearing the name "Fu Xin San," Liu Xinyou burst into tears. It was a slow-acting poison; initially, there would be no reaction, just like any other day. However, once the poison took effect, even the most divine beings would be powerless to help.
"This is not your fault; the true culprit is I. Allow this heartless man to bear the burden of everything," he said solemnly.
Neither Liu Xinyou nor Ye Wuji had ever considered that Lan Yixuan sought their lives; he merely wished to cast Ye Wuji aside once more on his wedding night, ensuring they would never meet again. For both Ye Wuji and Liu Xinyou, this was a devastating blow. Even if they were to meet again in this lifetime, they would be like strangers, enemies on the road. Lan Yixuan sought only to witness Liu Xinyou's heart-wrenching sorrow, wanting her to completely lose everything after having tasted happiness.
"Little Junior Sister, I too am weary," Ye Wuji sighed. As a sovereign, Lan Yixuan carried the weight of resentment in his heart, which could threaten the stability of his kingdom and plunge the people into suffering. Ye Wuji could not bear to see the student he had nurtured become a tyrant of legend. Yet, to inflict one more deep wound upon Liu Xinyou was a task he found impossible; he was truly exhausted. This choice brought a fatigue he had never known before. A month prior, on the night Liu Xinyou arrived, he had ingested the slow-acting poison.
"Don't you want to return to the Tianshan Mountains? Let us go together; you shall never be alone again."
The pain coursed through him, tearing him apart. Without the Fu Xin San, even the time was unbearable. Aside from the cold touch, he appeared almost as if he were merely sleeping. However, the final onset of the poison was excruciating, causing his muscles to spasm. Many succumbed to the agony, biting their tongues to end their suffering.
Liu Xinyou gazed at Ye Wuji, whose pale, ashen face gradually regained some color, but for this poison, it was not a good sign. When his complexion returned to normal, it would signify the end of his life. Tears streamed from her eyes as if a tremendous force had struck her in the chest, and the sharp pain spread to every corner of her being.
The time spent in Tianshan, where Ye Wuji had tenderly cared for her, had instilled in Liu Xinyou a deep sense of trust and dependency, alongside an enduring love. Twenty years prior, she had been cruelly abandoned by him at their wedding, leaving her with a hatred that ran deep into her bones. Yet now? Liu Xinyou could no longer articulate her feelings; it was as if she had lost her purpose. Even the simple act of breathing felt like torment.
Suddenly, she stood up, enveloping Ye Wuji in her embrace. Tears fell like rain upon his face, their cheeks pressed together, drenched in sorrow. "Elder Brother, please call me 'wife.'"
Ye Wuji attempted to raise a hand to wipe her tears but found himself utterly devoid of strength. With a weak smile, he softly uttered, "Wife."
Liu Xinyou held him tightly, a foolish smile breaking through her tears, which suddenly took on a crimson hue. "My beloved, let us return to Tianshan together and never be apart again."
The thick, warm liquid spilled onto Ye Wuji's cold face, seemingly satisfying Liu Xinyou's request. He smiled gently, slowly closing his eyes, the corners of his mouth still turned up.
Liu Xinyou lifted Ye Wuji in her arms and stepped out into the courtyard, where she saw Lan Yixuan standing quietly. He let out a cold laugh as she passed him. Turning to look at Ye Wuji in her arms, Lan Yixuan's expression shifted slightly, his elegant gaze reflecting shock and sorrow.
"Are you satisfied now?"
Liu Xinyou turned to face him, bloodstains marring her eyes. Her vibrant red wedding dress appeared as if it had been soaked in blood. It seemed that when a person is engulfed in profound sorrow, they truly could shed bloodied tears.
Lan Yixuan took a couple of steps forward but quickly halted. Had she found joy? Was she satisfied? Yet, looking at Liu Xinyou's state, he felt no sense of pleasure.
"Haha!" A familiar sharp laughter rang out at the door. Gong Shaohua regarded the lifeless Ye Wuji in Liu Xinyou's embrace and then looked back at her. "Liu Xinyou, you and I are alike—neither of us is worthy of happiness."
"Young Master," Lei An called carefully, his eyes filled with concern.
"Young Master," Lei Yun bowed, cautiously handing a note to Lan Yixuan. "This is the latest news from Miss Xianyue."
Lan Yixuan took the note, unfurling it. "Bilo River battle, the burning chain ships, a great victory."
Tightly gripping the note, Lan Yixuan suddenly burst into laughter. Victory had come so swiftly; perhaps soon she would vanish from his life.
"Young Master," Lei Yun and Lei An exchanged worried glances at Lan Yixuan's reaction. Lei Yun had not intended to share this news with him at this moment, but seeing the departure of Ye Wuji had affected him. He hoped that this news of great victory would lift his spirits, but it had turned out otherwise.
"Lei Yun, remove everyone beside Xianyue."
If she sought freedom, he would respect her choice and grant her that freedom.
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