Chapter Twenty-Five: Harmonious Strings, Unwavering Devotion

A cold wind swept through, deepening the infinite desolation in Yu Shang’s heart. In this vast world, where could he go? What would become of him once that mysterious threshold within his body was opened? He no longer wished to be at the mercy of that overwhelming power, forced into actions that would haunt him for a lifetime. Yet, if he did not unlock that threshold, how could he ever hope to reunite with his parents? He was truly at a loss, unable to decide what to do from now on.

Staring up at the boundless starry sky, Yu Shang felt ever smaller, realizing how many things in this world were utterly beyond his control. Was he to simply sit and wait for fate to decide his path? No—he refused! He would be the master of his own destiny, the keeper of his life. He would no longer bow to others’ whims, nor be manipulated like a puppet by the heavens. The past could not be changed, but he would seize the future with his own hands. Everything would be under his command; he would not live as a pawn driven by fate. In that moment, Yu Shang steeled his resolve: he would make his name resound throughout the world with a single glorious blow! The coming contest in a few days—he could not lose. He would win, and win with honor. He would rise above all, become supreme among men and gods, king of all kings! Indeed, a single thought could shift a person’s entire fate, and one’s temperament would determine their ultimate belonging.

“Who’s there? Show yourself!” A faint, hurried breathing reached Yu Shang’s ears. He immediately questioned the figure hiding in the shadows. Instead of revealing themselves, the person fled in panic, confirming Yu Shang’s suspicion of ill intent. He would not let such a cowardly, suspicious figure escape and quickly employed his Windborne Steps to give chase. Unfortunately, the fugitive’s skills were on par with his own. Just as Yu Shang was about to seize them, they used a feint to slip away, vanishing without a trace, leaving only a black veil in Yu Shang’s hand as he stood frozen in place.

“Could it be her? Impossible...” Yu Shang quickly dismissed the absurd notion, then turned back inside only to bump into the others who had come rushing over.

“What happened? Why was there such a commotion outside just now?” Xiao Yin asked in confusion, pulling Lan Wu behind her and scanning their surroundings warily.

“I couldn’t sleep and came out for some air, but I suddenly realized someone had been watching me. I tried to catch them, but was careless and let them escape,” Yu Shang replied, still unable to calm his heart as he gazed deeply in the direction the person had fled, sighing heavily with a dejected air.

“Did you see their face?” Yu Xiaoran asked gently, noticing Yu Shang’s distracted state.

Yu Shang shook his head and said nothing more, slowly returning to his room, leaving the others bewildered, exchanging uncertain glances.

“I doubt that person will dare return after tonight’s commotion. It’s getting late; let’s discuss anything else tomorrow. Everyone, go rest,” Yan Xue Su said mildly, watching Yu Shang’s retreating figure. The others followed her advice and dispersed to their rooms.

Yu Shang tossed and turned, unable to sleep, his mind tangled with thoughts of the mysterious observer. Why had they come? What connection did they have with her? He couldn’t shake the uncanny sense of familiarity; could it be she wasn’t dead after all? For a moment, Yu Shang felt a spark of hope, but quickly dismissed it. No, though his will had been controlled at the time, he had seen with his own eyes as the blade struck and her life ebbed away. But if she truly lived, what did she want now—revenge? And why did she show no murderous intent? Why couldn’t he let her go, even now, after her death? Yu Shang was in turmoil, his mind full of her. To let go was easier said than done—she had been his beloved, etched deeply into his heart! Even an object, kept for years, would inspire reluctance to discard it; how much more, a person?

“Ah... perhaps I’m just overthinking,” Yu Shang murmured helplessly, closing his eyes in an attempt to rest.

At the break of dawn, Yu Shang woke and stepped outside for a stroll, only to find Lan Bingxian already seated in the main hall.

“Brother Yu, you’re up early. Did you sleep well last night?” Lan Bingxian greeted him with a smile.

“Brother Lan, you’re here even earlier, arriving at first light. I suppose you too lost sleep over last night’s disturbance,” Yu Shang replied lightly, then added, “Are you waiting here so early because of what happened?”

“You are as perceptive as ever, Brother Yu! Yes, I came to discuss last night’s incident, as it concerns the academy’s safety. I hope you’ll forgive the intrusion,” Lan Bingxian said candidly, seeing Yu Shang’s frankness.

“That person was able to move freely within Yanlan Academy; we cannot underestimate them and must remain cautious, especially during such troubled times. It’s a pity I didn’t get a look at her face and let her escape. Judging by her build and skills, she was likely a woman—and not an ordinary one from the human realm. She may be one of the contestants soon to arrive, only here to test the waters last night. There’s no need for alarm,” Yu Shang replied, concealing little from the group.

Lan Bingxian sighed in relief. “Let’s hope, as you say, she was only scouting and means no harm to the academy. We must further strengthen our defenses and not give villains any opportunity. I apologize for the fright last night—it was our oversight.”

“Brother Lan, there’s no need to be so formal. We share the academy’s burdens now; its troubles are ours as well. How could you call it your error alone?” Yu Xiaoran added courteously.

Yan Xue Su, always at Yu Xiaoran’s side, chimed in, “Exactly. We’re all in the same boat now; being so formal makes us uncomfortable.” Her smiling face seemed ever more radiant—love, it seemed, could truly make a woman more beautiful and enchanting.

“So quick to sing in harmony as husband and wife, and without a care for public display! Truly enviable!” Xiao Yin teased as she entered, then pretended to realize, “You two are up and about together so early—did you not part at all last night?” She shot them a mischievous grin.

“You’re talking nonsense! I’ll make you pay for that!” Yan Xue Su called out in embarrassment.

“If you keep spouting off like that, I won’t let you off so easily,” Yu Xiaoran threatened, feigning severity. Both wore blushes and smiles, happiness written plainly on their faces.

“Did I miss some wonderful show? Why is the mood so different today?” Lan Wu laughed as she entered, recognizing at once what had happened. In truth, they should have confessed their feelings long ago; everyone else could see their affection, yet they themselves had wasted so much precious time. At last, the clouds had cleared and the moon shone through—they were finally together.

“Even Lan Wu is teasing us now! Xiao Yin, you must have corrupted my sweet sister!” Yan Xue Su complained with mock annoyance.

“How am I teasing? I’m happy for you both! You hesitated so long, it nearly drove me mad with impatience,” Lan Wu replied earnestly, her joy for them heartfelt.

“Shouldn’t we be worrying about you two, then? Why haven’t things progressed between you?” Unable to resist, Yu Shang interjected.

“Him? I’m still observing. If I agree too soon and someone better comes along, wouldn’t I miss out?” Lan Wu teased Xiao Yin in return.

“Sooner or later, you’ll be in my arms—who could possibly be better?” Xiao Yin boasted shamelessly.

“Don’t be so arrogant!” Lan Wu shot him a glance, then turned away with a secret smile.

“I don’t know if there’s anyone better than him, but none would treat you as well,” Leng Huaiyi said, stepping out and speaking earnestly.

“Are you happy now? Even Brother Huaiyi is speaking up for you!” Lan Wu pouted playfully, her words finally drawing a clear line under years of ambiguous feelings and confirming their new relationship. The others smiled in relief—Lan Wu had finally come to understand her own heart, and others’ as well. She was no longer locked in that illusory past, but had moved on and let go. In truth, she was more poised and mature than anyone present—at least she knew when to relinquish, and how to walk free from her cage to begin anew.

“That proves I’m truly good! If you don’t cherish me, someone else might snatch me away,” Xiao Yin joked, prompting laughter all around.

“Shameless! With your looks, what woman would choose you? I could believe it if they fancied Brother Lan, but you? Not a chance!” Lan Wu was so amused by Xiao Yin that she couldn’t stop laughing.

“You flatter me, Lady Lan Wu. If I were to walk out with such outstanding companions, who would spare a glance for me? All eyes would be on you,” Lan Bingxian protested modestly.

“You should learn from Brother Lan—so humble and courteous! Look at yourself: arrogant and unserious!” Lan Wu scolded playfully.

“But isn’t that exactly what you like about me? Besides, that’s called personality—something others can only envy!” Xiao Yin declared unabashedly.

“Stop flattering yourself! Who likes you?” Lan Wu blushed at his words, swinging her delicate fist at him. Xiao Yin accepted the blow with delight, feeling nothing but happiness.

“Hey! This is a public place, you know! You couples are flirting so openly—what about us lonely souls?” Yu Shang sighed helplessly, unable to bear their displays of affection.

“If you’re envious, go find someone yourself. Why wallow in loneliness?” Lan Wu quipped.

“Shall I introduce you to a few ladies?” Yan Xue Su joined in with a teasing smile.