Chapter Text
“Nainai, Nainai!” A little girl ran into her grandmother’s room, braids flapping behind her.
The greyed-hair old woman looked up from her embroidery and gave her granddaughter a warm smile. “My sweet Lian-er, what causes you to run to nainai like this?”
The little girl pondered for a while as she swayed on her feet. Big curious eyes met her grandmother’s warm ones, “Nainai, what’s a Jianghu?”
The smile on her grandmother’s face froze for a while, but it was soon gone as the old woman asked, “Jianghu? Where did Lian-er hear about it?”
“Mmmm, from the other kids! They said that there was where all the heroes gathered, though I never heard about it before.” She replied back with shiny eyes.
Her grandmother was silent until she patted at the seat next to her. Getting her intention, the little girl quickly sat down and perked her ears, knowing fully well that another story will be coming. Nainai always tells the best stories!
The grandmother was deep in thoughts, eyes gazing out of the window as if trying to recapture a memory. At the end she started shakily, “Jianghu ah, is a place where heroes used to gather…”
Jianghu. The martial art world. It contained different sect and different types of martial art. Different moves, different people.
Jianghu was vast, it was a place where people travelled, a place where….
What was Jianghu really supposed to be? Jianghu was big, Jianghu contained many people, but Jianghu wasn’t all about heroes. Jianghu was confusing, the Five Lake Alliance was confusing, all sects were confusing,
Heroes they said, but how did all heroes come to this kind of ending?
The world isn’t just black and white, it’s grey. In evil there’s kindness; In kindness there’s evil. Jianghu is just grey. And that was what made us humans, we’re not perfect in some kind of way, all of us had some flaws.
And perhaps that was why, as humans, arrogance would ruin us. Just like how arrogance had ruined the whole Jianghu.
Who ruined - No, who conquered Jianghu?
The famed Ghost Valley. Once you’re in, you’re a ghost, not a human anymore. And once you’re out? Darling, there’s no way out, you’ll never escaped from there.
A place where the strong preyed on the weak. A place where humanity was gone. A place where either you kill, or you’ll get killed. A place that clearly resembled hell itself.
The Five Lake Alliance was considered as the strongest, the top of Jianghu, the protectors.
But how did they crumpled; How did they fell into the Ghost Valley Master trap? Arrogance was such a scary thing. And that was the cause of the fall of the whole Jianghu.
People in Jianghu was well aware of the Ghost Valley. While many feared it, everyone didn’t see it as a big threat, a big threat that can potentially take the whole Jianghu down.
And maybe that’s how Wen Kexing, the Ghost Valley Master (now known as the Emperor) succeed in taking down the whole Jianghu. He had them in his palm, toying with them.
Wen Kexing. Pretty face, charming smile. How could he be the one that conquered the whole Jianghu with only three thousand ghosts (soldiers)?
Wen Kexing. Pretty face, sadistic smile, metal fan that turns red due to blood. Was it that surprising when he managed to bring the whole Jianghu down?
This man conquered the whole Jianghu. First, he threw the whole Jianghu in chaos, letting them turn against each other. After that, he came out of Ghost Valley with his three thousand ghosts and slaughtered those who stood in his way.
Five Lake Alliance was burned to ashes by him. And everyone would tell tales about him and Zhao Jing. The way Wen Kexing tortured that man? Gruesome, let’s not talk about it.
There was a rumour that the Immortal Ye Baiyi came down from the mountain and went to see Wen Kexing. But it was quickly dissipated away when Wen Kexing still went on with his plans to bring the Jianghu down, due to his (questionable) hatred for them. Besides, there was no way Immortal Ye would just let the whole situation be like this, right?
Was it really just a rumour? Or was it real?
Well anyway, soon the whole Jianghu belonged to Wen Kexing. He killed those who went against him, causing many people to head over to his side. But in all of his killing spree, he never once touched any commoners.
And maybe that was why the commoners didn’t go against him when he was proclaimed as the emperor. Maybe it was out of fear, or maybe it was just because he never did touch them. After all, humans are simple.
Now, Jianghu was just a bedtime story for the kids. A myth. A long gone fairy-tale.
The capital of Wen Kexing’s newly formed empire was situated at Qingya. Ghost Valley still existed, though instead of a dark gloomy valley, the newly built palace for the emperor now bore the name. A constant reminder that in the end, Ghost Valley survived, while the others was down in the mud.
In just a few years, many things changed. Jianghu fell; a new country risen up.
And that’s how a new empire was formed, all thanks to His Majesty Wen Kexing.
“-And that’s why the ministers thought that it would be good to form an alliance with Qingya, through marriage. What do you think, Zishu?”
“This one thinks that it’s not a bad idea.”
“Really?” Helian Yi asked, inching forward from his throne as he glanced as the man standing in front of him.
Not even blinking at the intense gaze the emperor was giving him, the man standing there was Zhou Zishu, leader of Tian Chuang, Lord of Four Seasons Manor. One could clearly tell that he was a beauty, though the cold glint in his eyes seemed to scare others away.
Zhou Zishu merely nodded and replied, “Yes, Your Majesty. The marriage will benefit both countries.”
Helian Yi was quiet as he sat on his throne, closing his eyes. As he mulled over the fact, the only sound in the throne room was the chain beads in his hand.
Click clack, the beads sang; Tick tock, the time went.
Soon, he opened his eyes and stared at Zhou Zishu, “Is that Wen Kexing really that strong?”
“Answering Your Majesty,” Zhou Zishu started carefully. “It’s the best if we avoid war with Wen Kexing.” Zhou Zishu wondered why Helian Yi was so arrogant sometimes. Wen Kexing literally brought Jianghu down, one wrong move and maybe (certainly) they’ll be next.
“We have the imperial army, don’t we?” Helian Yi then added, “And how can he win against Tian Chuang?”
(Zhou Zishu never wanted to smack the Emperor so bad until now)
Tian Chuang. Window of Heavens. The name itself would send everyone in shivers. An organization of intelligence gatherers and assassins loyal only to the Emperor, there was no information of their numbers or whereabouts – they move like shadows, forever well hidden in the dark.
And the first ever leader of Tian Chuang was Zhou Zishu.
Tian Chuang was something Zhou Zishu brought up, but now he wanted to leave. Leaving Tian Chuang wasn’t easy. Those who tried to leave Tian Chuang were all dead due to the Nails of Seven Torments in the body.
All eighty-one disciples from Four Seasons Manor were all dead, even Jiuxiao was dead, leaving him alone. No, technically he wasn’t alone, there was still someone with him in the group of Four Seasons Manor. There’s still him and Zhang Chengling.
There was a reason why Zhou Zishu didn’t insert the nails in his body yet. If he left, what would happen to Chengling?
Chengling was his disciple that he found back then when he was out on a mission. He still remembers the small little child hugging his leg. And long story short, the kid soon became his disciple.
Zhou Zishu took a deep breath and calm himself down. “Your Majesty, Wen Kexing managed to bring the whole Jianghu down. He shouldn’t be underestimated.” And he’s now crowned as an emperor, was left unsaid.
Helian Yi nodded and said, “Alright then, since even you advise me to not go to war.” – Zhou Zishu wanted to roll his eyes – “Then I guess the marriage proposal would be the best choice.”
Zhou Zishu kept silent as Helian Yi continued to talk. “But what if Wen Kexing reject the proposal? Which is why I thought of something.”
Zhou Zishu sighed, “What did you thought of Your Majesty?” Zhou Zishu’s patience was running out, especially right now. He wanted to ask the Gods why was Helian Yi acting like this today.
“We should let Wen Kexing know that we support him” – Weren’t you the one who wanted to go to war five minute ago? But okay I guess (Author, shut up please) – “With that, he is allowed to pick his future partner.”
“A wise idea from Your Majesty.” Zhou Zishu replied, uninterested over the whole marriage proposal. Not like it concerns me.
“Good, good. I’ll send a later to Qingya then. You may leave now.” Helian Yi said as he picked up a brush, clearly to write the letter.
“Thank you, Your Majesty”
With one last bow, Zhou Zishu walked out the throne room, black cape fluttering behind him.
I need a drink. He thought as he nodded at his subordinates who bowed at him. He then remembered how Wen Kexing was famed to be unhinged. Cross that, I need lots of alcohol.
“Greetings to Your Majesty, Princess.” Wu Chang Gui bowed and didn’t dared to get up. Only hearing a soft sigh, he started sweating inwardly. Someone please tell me why I’m the one in charge of bringing the damn letters!
“Wei! Why are you here interrupting Master?” A pretty young lady in purple robes said. “Master is doing calligraphy and you know how he hates it when people come and bothers him.”
Wu Chang Gui slipped on a calm smile and replied back, “May His Majesty forgive this lowly one. As you said princess, I wouldn’t dare to interrupt Your Majesty unless it’s very important.” Do you think I want to be here you little brat?
The Princess of Qingya only rolled her eyes. “Important? Wh-”
“A-Xiang, that’s enough.” The man who was sitting said to Gu Xing, making her quieted down. Gently twirling the brush between his fingers, he gave Wu Chang Gui a chilly smile. “Go on then, let’s see what so important that you dare to interrupt me.”
"Reporting to Your Majesty, Emperor Helian Yi from Da Qing sent a letter." While saying, Wu Chang Gui reached into his robes to retrieve the letter. "A letter address to Your Majesty Wen Kexing."
Yes, indeed. The person sitting there was the fearsome Emperor Wen Kexing. The one and only Wen Kexing who bought Jianghu down.
Wen Kexing's smile was frozen on his handsome face for a second until he started laughing, sending chills to both people in the room. The way he laughed was mesmerizing enough, if one ignored the malicious intent laced with it.
Putting down the brush in his hand, he leaned back on the chair and waved his hand. "Why then, continue."
Wu Chang Gui's eyes flickered up for a second as he continued, "The content in the letter is about a marriage proposal."
Gu Xiang gasped; Wen Kexing sat up, dark eyes narrowing.
“Marriage proposal for the princess?” If looks could kill, Wu Chang Gui would already be dead. Oh, poor him, he was just a messenger.
“No, Your Majesty. A marriage proposal for you.”
Gu Xiang gasped again and look at the emperor in horror. “A m-marriage proposal for you?!”
Wen Kexing only held out his hand. Quickly, Wu Chang Gui handed him the letter.
The room was filled with silence as Wen Kexing read through the letter. Tapping his fingers on the table, he voiced out, “Anyone I want huh?”
“Yes, Your Majesty.” Wu Chang Gui hurriedly said. “Anyone Your Majesty is interested in.”
“Interesting.” Wen Kexing lips quirked up again as he placed the letter on the table. “Very interesting.”
“Master are you going to…?” Gu Xiang questioned, still horrified over the marriage proposal.
“Your Majesty, I’ll write a rejecti-” Wu Chang Qui quickly said, only to halt when Wen Kexing put up his hand.
“My my, Wu Chang Gui. Don’t you have any manners? Since Helian Yi kindly let me choose whoever I want, there’s no harm in accepting the proposal.” Wen Kexing’s long fingers tapped on the letter, sounding amused.
“WHAT?” Both Gu Xiang and Wu Chang Gui exclaimed, though the princess’ voice was much louder than his.
“Master! You seriously can’t be thinking of that.” Having no fear towards Wen Kexing, Gu Xiang quickly said.
“Why not? I heard that the capital at there have lots of beauties.”
“Y-You.” Gu Xiang was in disbelief now. “Master, we have lots of beauties here too!”
Wen Kexing elegantly arched one of his eyebrows, voice coming out sharper than the usual tone he always used with the princess. “You dare question my choice?”
Gu Xiang quickly ducked down her head. “This one doesn’t dare.”
Turning away from Gu Xiang, the emperor stated, “Prepare a carriage, we’ll be leaving to meet Helian Yi soon.”
“I- Yes, of course.” Wu Chang Gui bowed again. “And the reply, Your Majesty?”
“I’ll write it myself.” Wen Kexing told him as he picked up his brush again. Gu Xiang quickly took a new sheet of paper for him.
Seeing that he was no longer needed, Wu Chang Gui bowed one last time and quickly left the room. While shutting the door, he heard the emperor telling the princess, “Silly girl, it’ll be fine.”
“When will they arrive?”
“Soon, Your Majesty.” Zhou Zishu replied as he nodded at his subordinates, all of them quickly going to their posts.
He usually wouldn’t be here personally due to his identity, but Wen Kexing was coming and he could not risk it. No matter how much imperial soldiers and Tian Chuang assassins were on standby, it was still risky as Wen Kexing was powerful enough.
Former Ghost Valley Master Wen Kexing; Current Emperor of Qingya Wen Kexing.
Just hearing the name Zhou Zishu could feel a headache coming up. Aiya, he should had went to check his luck for today. Or maybe he shouldn’t had bothered coming and all and just let Helian Yi be killed- No. Zishu, no. Clear those bad thoughts away and focus.
“They’re here!” He heard the servants said. Taking his place behind Helian Yi, he followed the emperor to greet the group of people from Qingya.
“Greetings Emperor Wen Kexing. I’ve heard so much about you.” Helian Yi said to the fellow emperor with his business-like grin.
Not affected by the sudden warm greeting, Wen Kexing grinned back. Dressed in pale green robes and wielding a white fan, he looked more like a refined young master than the fearsome emperor. “What story is there to tell about me? I’m not as talented as Your Majesty, your stories are more interesting than mine.”
Smooth talker, Zhou Zishu noted behind Helian Yi. It was no wonder he gained people’s trust easily. He would’ve made a nice addition to Tian Chuang.
“And this is? Zhou Zishu quickly snapped out of his thoughts when he realised Wen Kexing was staring at him. Gracefully bowing, he replied, “Greeting to Your Majesty. This one is called Zhou Zishu.”
Something flashed across Wen Kexing’s eyes; No one saw it.
“Ah! This is actually my cousin.” Helian Yi said while patting Zhou Zishu’s shoulder when he straightened up. “From my mother’s side.” Ah yes, the typical reason they would always use. A relative from the maternal side of the current dragon, totally not the current leader of the infamous secret killer organisation at all. Yes, nothing suspicious here- (Again, author do quiet down please)
Wen Kexing’s eyes flickered through the cousins. Snapping open his fan, he gave Zhou Zishu a wink before fanning himself. “Looks really run in the family. Lord Zhou is quite a beauty, many girls must’ve taken a liking on you.”
What a flirt, Zhou Zishu thought in his head as he muttered his insincere thanks. Tuning out whatever the emperors were talking about, he glanced at the group Wen Kexing bought with him, frowning when his eyes landed on a young lady dressed in violet robes.
A maidservant? He mused to himself. No, her outfit is a high quality one. A consort of the emperor? But the informants said that Wen Kexing doesn’t have a spouse yet.
Don’t tell me, Zhou Zishu paused for a while as he unconsciously peeked at Wen Kexing. This girl is his concubine!?
“Let me introduce you to,” Wen Kexing said as he pulled the girl towards him. “This is Gu Xiang, Princess of Qingya. My sister.” Oh my god his concu- Wait, did he just say ‘sister’.
The princess gave them a bow as Helian Yi complimented the siblings, “Looks run in your family too! What a pair of good-looking siblings.”
Zhou Zishu stayed quiet, knowing fully well that Wen Kexing and Gu Xiang weren’t blood related at all, unless the informants had gave him the wrong information.
As they were walking into the throne room, Wen Kexing paused and said, “It’ll be fine if I request a private audience with Your Majesty right?”
Though the question was not directed to anyone, Zhou Zishu felt Wen Kexing’s eyes on him. The fan was hiding half of Wen Kexing’s face, making his expression unreadable. There was no reason for Helian Yi to decline the request, talking privately between rulers were very normal. Sly, very sly of Wen Kexing.
Helian Yi nodded with smile, “Of course! Zishu can accompany this pretty princess here then. Right Zishu?” Helian Yi glanced at him; Gu Xiang stared at him; Wen Kexing face was again, unreadable.
Knowing fully well that the only answer to the ‘question’ was a ‘yes’, he nodded and said and to Gu Xiang. “Hoping that I won’t bore Your Highness.”
Gu Xiang quickly waved her hands, “No no, you won’t bore me, Lord Zhou.” Zhou Zishu did not miss the way her eyes quickly flickered to her brother for a slight second.
“That’s settled then.” Helian Yi clasped his hands. “Zishu and Princess Gu Xiang can be at the outdoor pavilion.” Saying that, he extended his arm and asked the servants to prepare tea for them.
Zhou Zishu had no idea what to talk about. Sipping the warm tea (Oh how he wished it was wine) he glanced at the princess. Gu Xiang weren’t doing that well either, she was munching on the snacks while looking at the pond.
An assassin and an ex-ghost; A lord and a princess; An adult and a teen. In conclusion, it was awkward.
“So-” Tian Chuang Leader after a long time of silence, he still had no idea what to say to the teenager, “How’s…life?” Zhou Zishu would love to smack himself, that was the dumbest question ever. He really needed Chengling right now to communicate with the princess.
“Oh!” Gu Xiang blinked as she stopped chewing. “Life is fine, I guess.” Zhou Zishu nodded as they fell back into the awkward silence again.
Gu Xiang glanced around and once making sure no one was near them, she leaned closer to Zhou Zishu. “Hey, Lord Zhou.”
Surprised by her sudden closeness, Zhou Zishu raise an eyebrow at her, “Yes, Your Highness?”
As if asking him something very private, Gu Xiang whispered, “Is there anyone here who’s a great beauty, have a high level of martial arts. Oh, and pretty shoulder blade?”
Zhou Zishu frowned when he heard that and decided to not question the last statment. Seeing his reaction, Gu Xiang flapped her hands around. “I’m not trying to pry but Mas- Ge told me that my future sister-in-law is like this.”
Zhou Zishu was surprised when he heard that, he didn’t know that Wen Kexing actually knew someone from Da Qing. Going through the list of noble ladies in his mind, none of them seemed to match the description the princess had gave.
“Is she from nobility, Your Highness?”
“I guess so?”
Zhou Zishu nodded and put his tea down. “Apologies to you princess, but there isn’t anyone who match the description.”
“Ah.” Gu Xiang let out. Clearly disappointed, she continued to munch on the snack. Seeing her like this, he realized that this teen was just like his idiot disciple. Chengling would show the same expression when he was disappointed.
Having a faint smile on his face, he asked Qingya’s Princess, “How old are you, princess?” She looked young, younger than ladies in their twenties but older than Chengling. But at the same time, she looked like someone who had already experience hell before. Well, she was from the Ghost Valley after all.
“I’m sixteen.” Older than Chengling.
“Oh, I see.” The lord said, wondering if he should tell her about his age to keep the conversation going. Or would that make him looked like a creep?
SMASH
The sound of glass breaking made him looked at the princess instantly. Seeing that both of their cups were fine, he quickly shot up. Helian Yi!
Rushing to the throne room with Gu Xiang in his tow, he found that none of the guards had went in yet. This means that Helian Yi didn’t summoned them. Or was it because he’s already…dead?
Gritting his teeth and praying to the gods, he slammed the door opened, just in time to meet someone’s broad chest. Well, Wen Kexing’s broad chest.
Zhou Zishu’s shoulder sagged in relief when he looked past the Wen Kexing’s shoulder, Helian Yi was sitting still on his throne, clearly still breathing. His eyes moved to the shattered cup on the floor, wondering what had happened.
“Lord Zhou” He looked up and realised Wen Kexing was still blocking the entrance. The taller leaned down and gave him a flirty smile, “Can’t wait to see you in Qingya.”
“Huh?”
Before he could ask, Wen Kexing had smoothly glided past him. “A-Xiang, let’s go.”
“Ah? Okay. Goodbye, Lord Zhou!” After saying that, Gu Xiang quickly followed her brother while Zhou Zishu quickly rushed inside the throne room.
“Your Majesty! Are you hurt anywhere?” Zhou Zishu questioned as he quickly scanned Helian Yi for any injuries.
Helian Yi grabbed his arm. “Your Majesty?”
“Cousin.” – Zhou Zishu stared at Da Qin’s dragon – “Will you do anything for this country?”
“Of course.” Zhou Zishu replied instantly, bewildered at the sudden question. “Your Majesty what did he do to-”
“Zishu ah,” Helian Yi’s grip on his arm tightened. “What do you think of getting married?”
Tian Chuang leader, Lord Zhou Zishu spluttered. “What?”
A while ago
Wen Kexing was drinking his cup of wine when Helian Yi asked, “Emperor Wen, since we’re already friends.” – Wen Kexing wanted to roll his eyes at the statement – “Then there’s no need to be shy.” Helian Yi drank his wine in one shot. “Tell me, which lady would you want to be your future partner.”
Setting down his cup, Wen Kexing smiled, “I thank Your Majesty kindness. Since Your Majesty said it, then I won’t hold back anymore.”
Helian Yi chuckled and questioned the younger emperor, “Or do you need a list? I have a list prepared for you.” Saying that, he tapped on the papers on his table.
“How embarrassing, it seems that I’ve troubled you.” Wen Kexing said. “But I actually have someone in mind, I hope that you’ll permit it.”
“Ah? I would love to know who caught your attention.” Helian Yi poured more wine in his cup. “And don’t worry, didn’t I state clearly in the letter? You’re allowed to choose anyone you want, regardless of age, gender or status.” He picked up his cup, “Go on then, tell me.”
Wen Kexing’s smile turned bigger. “Then, I would love to have Lord Zhou Zishu as my future partner”
The cup in his hand met the hard ground, glass shattered, wine spilled.
“W-What?” Helian Yi was speechless, hoping that he had heard wrong. Zhou Zishu, his cousin, his right-hand man, his tool.
Wen Kexing ignored his outburst. “Isn’t it great? Lord Zhou is your cousin, yes? This way we’ll be actually related somehow.” He wetted his lips with the sweet wine and gave Helian Yi a cold smile, “Unless Emperor Helian Yi is taking back his promise?”
Not knowing what to say, Helian Yi continued to stare at him. He now understood why Zhou Zishu had warned him to not go against Wen Kexing. Qingya’s Emperor had laid a trap and he walked right into it! In his whole life, Helian Yi was never the prey. He stared at Wen Kexing, Wen Kexing gave him a smirk.
“Ah and Lord Zhou would be called as my Prince Consort.” Wen Kexing nodded to no one in particular. “Calling him my Empress would be insulting, no? After all, he’s a man. But don’t worry,” – Wen Kexing gazed at him when Helian Yi choked on air – “He will have the same authority as an Empress.”
Both emperors stared at each other. The one who usually trick others got tricked.
If this was a game of xiangqi, Wen Kexing clearly won.
Wen Kexing got up from his seat. “Well then, they’ll come and pick my prince consort up in five days’ time.” With that, he walked to the exit, just in time to Zhou Zishu opening the door.
As he watched Zhou Zishu rushing in, Helian Yi knew that it was time to say goodbye to his most valuable asset.
And if Zhou Zishu did went to the fortune teller that morning, he clearly would’ve gotten something like: Congratulations! You’re getting married!