Chapter 103 - Snow Pear Flavored Dead Gong (2)

Translated by

Hua Li ^_~

And so, the bronze sword was brought back by Gou Liang to the shop and placed on the desk of the Feng Shui room on the second floor.

After lighting the best candles in the shop, setting up some fruits, two cups of fragrant tea, and a pot of good wine, Gou Liang bowed to the bronze sword, saying, Brother Bi Xia, it must have been a long time since you had anything to eat. If you dont mind, please accept these offerings.

Thank you.

A wisp of green smoke floated out of the bronze sword, and a figure slowly materialized, then took an apple from the desk, taking a bite.

The crisp sound echoed, and the sweet taste of the fruit filled the mouth. Bi Xia didnt remember if he liked sweet things, but he instinctively felt a fondness for the sweet and fragrant fruit, showing a satisfied expression as he narrowed his eyes.

Gou Liang:

After finis.h.i.+ng one apple, Bi Xia smiled at Gou Liang, who was still staring at him, unaware of his own rudeness, and said, Why are you looking at me like that? Did I do something wrong just now?

No, no.

Gou Liang waved his hands repeatedly and glanced at the ground, confirming that there was no shadow.

Gou Liang thought to himself: Truly, a formidable fierce ghost bound for three thousand years. His profound cultivation allowed him to solidify into a physical form. This legendary-level old ghost was undoubtedly beneficial for them. However, the lack of a shadow posed a significant problem. He pondered how to get Bi Xia to stand in the sunlight, all while smiling and saying, Dont call me little brother anymore. My surname is Meng, given name Qining. You can call me Aning, Big Brother.

Aning.

Bi Xia tried calling him, seemingly not used to such an affectionate address. He said, I observe that Aning has already reached adulthood. How about telling me your courtesy name, and we can address each other as peers.

Gou Liang smiled and said, We dont use courtesy names anymore. We address each other by our given names.

Bi Xia hesitated for a moment, sighed lightly, and said, So it is.

After expressing grat.i.tude to Gou Liang once again, Bi Xia inquired about the current affairs of this era.

In just a few hours since he emerged from the sword scabbard, he had already sensed the differences in Gou Liangs attire, speech, and more. However, the fact that people no longer used courtesy names was the most noticeable change for him.

Courtesy names, a persons name marked their entrance into the world and the establishment of their ident.i.ty. It was a gift from their elders, indicating the transition from youth to adulthood.

Such traditions have been abandoned. Bi Xia was prepared for the profound changes in civilization, yet upon learning about the fall of the dynasty, the absence of a royal family, and the absence of hereditary aristocrats, even the calm and collected him couldnt help but show surprise.

Fortunately, he was an adaptable person. Despite the shocking changes in his worldview, he quickly calmed his fluctuating emotions. With a hint of emotion, he remarked, Times change, and the world undergoes great transformations. Now, I find myself here like an ignorant child. Aning, please enlighten me about the current situation.

No problem.

Gou Liang was willing to share everything with him.

As they delved into the conversation, Bi Xias body suddenly became transparent. Gou Liang was startled, Whats happening to you?

Its nothing, Bi Xia was indifferent to the condition of his body. My spirit has been damaged. Staying away from the bronze sword for too long results in this. Aning, can you elaborate on the modern weapons you mentioned earlier?

Oh, sure. Wait here, and let me find some information for you.

Bi Xia was a diligent learner. Watching the videos on nuclear explosions repeatedly, he seemed to be deeply affected. Fortunately, his resolute character allowed him to steady his mind, and he soon regained composure. Continuing the discussion, he said, This weapon is so powerful. If two nations go to war, how will the common people cope

Gou Liang answered his questions one by one until the alarm clock reminded him that it was time to close.

Looking at the time, it had unknowingly reached eight in the evening.

Gou Liang asked him, My place is not far from here. Do you want to stay here or come with me?

Bi Xias thoughts were complicated, and he hesitated before realizing what Gou Liang was saying. He smiled, Aning mentioned earlier that you would take me home. Since this is not your home, I will naturally go with you.

Gou Liang smiled and said, I cant carry the bronze sword with me. Keep reading the information, and Ill find something good for you. Then, Ill take you with me.

Bi Xia saw his eager appearance and shook his head, smiling. When he returned his gaze to the military knowledge video, his smile gradually disappeared. Three thousand years have pa.s.sed Nowadays, it is no longer the era of Bi Wu Zhan.

In the hidden room on the second floor, there were numerous treasures and antiques collected by Old Man Meng.

But Gou Liang, who had been the Son of destiny for many years, had a discerning eye. After carefully selecting and inspecting, he couldnt find a piece of good jade. Seeing this, Gou Liang decided to spend 1999 points to buy a top-quality Soul-nouris.h.i.+ng Jade from the system. He personally engraved talismans on it and invited Bi Xia to inspect it.

Wearing the necklace, Gou Liang pressed the position on his chest, smiling slightly.

Placing you on my chest, are you pleased with this distance?

k2014;

Father Meng left two sets of houses for the original owner. One was in the city center, and the other was near the antique street. Due to the proximity to work, the original owner had been living here since graduating from school.

I forgot to have dinner. Ill make some supper. Do you want to join me and have a little?

As soon as they entered the house, Gou Liang released Bi Xia, treating him like an ordinary guest and even giving him a pair of slippers. Bi Xia, imitating a toddler learning to walk, followed Gou Liang into the living room.

Bi Xia said, Im sorry to trouble Aning.

Gou Liang raised his hand to stop Bi Xias bowing gesture, taking the opportunity to hold his hand. Although he could feel Bi Xias icy temperature, he smiled, revealing charming dimples on his cheeks, Youre too polite, Bi Xia.

Bi Xia then remembered that Gou Liang had mentioned earlier that modern people no longer used such formalities, and his actions might seem strange to others.

Gou Liang saw the disappointment in his eyes, but these changes required him to adapt on his own. Without saying much, he simply held onto Bi Xias hand, leading him to the sofa to continue reading the information, while he went to the kitchen to get busy.

Having only eaten breakfast today, Gou Liang was starving. Instead of preparing something complicated, he decided to cook two bowls of noodles.

As the aroma wafted from the kitchen, Bi Xia, who was originally focused on the encyclopedia, became distracted, frequently looking towards the kitchen.

Although the bowl of noodles seemed plain, not only was the fragrance enticing, but the taste was also exceptional.

Having finished the soup and noodles, Bi Xia put down his chopsticks and praised sincerely, Even the royal palace chef doesnt have Anings exceptional culinary skills. Thank you for your hospitality.

Of course, just look at who I am.

Gou Liang boasted without modesty, and seeing Bi Xia smile, he casually asked, Its apparent, Big Brother Bi Xia, that you come from a wealthy background. Unexpectedly, you even had meals from the imperial palace. Could you be a prince?

Prince? Bi Xia pondered for a moment and said, I was born before the t.i.tle of emperor existed. We referred to the kings offspring as princes. I come from a prestigious family in Hu Kingdom, generations educated in literature. However, the details of my past have faded with time, and I can no longer recall them.

Well do you remember how you died?

Gou Liang nervously bit his chopsticks, watching him intently.

Bi Xia didnt find this question offensive. He thought for a moment and said, I died in battle on the battlefield. However, the reasons and consequences, why I joined the army in the first place, have been forgotten, and I cannot recall them.

Gou Liang breathed a sigh of relief.

Those unpleasant experiences were engraved in his soul, and perhaps he would remember them tomorrow or maybe never again in his lifetime.

But regardless, Gou Liang hoped he wouldnt be haunted by the pain of the past.

Bi Xia was highly intelligent, and whatever Gou Liang said once, he never forgot.

Since ghosts didnt need sleep, for the next few days, Bi Xia tirelessly absorbed knowledge about the modern world. The first thing he needed to grasp was the history of Chinese civilization spanning five thousand years. Fortunately, he could understand modern language, so Gou Liang bought history tutorial videos for him online, sparing him the effort of explaining.

With the small shop attracting no customers, Gou Liang decided to temporarily close it and focused on accompanying Bi Xia. He patiently answered all of Bi Xias questions, and if Bi Xia didnt inquire, Gou Liang remained silent, busy embroidering on the frame.

The first time Bi Xia saw him pick up a needle and thread, he was surprised and couldnt help but ask, Aning, what are you doing?

Gou Liang replied, Im making a robe for you. If you wear it, youll be able to move like a normal person, with a shadow and weight.

Touched, Bi Xia said, Meeting Aning under such circ.u.mstances is truly my fortune.

Gou Liang thought to himself, However, Im not that happy about it.

Watching Bi Xia, who was focused on reading materials, Gou Liang sewed the clothes while pondering over the basic information:

[

Name: Bi Xia, courtesy name Wu Zhan

]

[

Gender: Male

]

[

Age: 3132 years old, deceased at 29

]

[

Height: 192 cm

]

[

Appearance Coefficient:

]

[

Intelligence Coefficient:

]

[

Physical Fitness Coefficient:

]

[

Health Coefficient:

]

[

Potential: S-cla.s.s

]

[

Current Favorability: +60.

]

Bi Xia genuinely expressed his grat.i.tude, and after Gou Liang brought him home from Sun Zhuozhuo, his favorability had skyrocketed from 0 to +60. Gou Liang had been delighted about it for a long time.

However, the reality proved that he had celebrated too early. Regardless of what he did afterward, he couldnt move the favorability needle even a bit.

Ten days later, facing the immovable favorability, Gou Liang finally had to interrupt the plan to increase favorability in their secluded world.

In the Qizang Pavilion, a seemingly inconspicuous shop on the antique street, business was usually slow.

After closing the Meng familys small shop for ten days, a distinguished guest arrived today.

In the tea room on the second floor, the fragrance of tea wafted gently, and the young mans movements were smooth and pleasing. Every action was a delight to watch. The tea aroma filled the air, rust-colored tea was poured into a purple clay cup, placed in front of the guest, and Gou Liang smiled slightly, saying, Master Zhang, please.

Speaking, he poured another cup of tea for Bi Xia, who was sitting next to him, and finally for himself.

Master Zhang sniffed the tea, took a sip, and praised, Although I am an uncultured person when it comes to tea, I have had the privilege of tasting tea brewed by Brother Meng. Nephew truly lives up to his reputation.

Youre too kind.

Gou Liang humbly replied.

The tea soup is rosy, the fragrance lingers, and the taste is mellow. Although its not a famous variety among Puer teas, it deserves the t.i.tle of good tea.

Bi Xia, a true tea expert, wasnt disappointed at all.

Gou Liang smiled, If you like it, thats good.

Master Zhang looked at the elegant young man who was enjoying tea. He had long hair that he left untied, wearing a white s.h.i.+rt b.u.t.toned to the top b.u.t.ton. His smile was polite to the extent that it felt cold. Clearly a young man under thirty, but standing in front of him, even Master Zhang, who considered himself successful and experienced in life, couldnt help feeling a sense of inadequacy.

Touching the jade ring on his hand, Master Zhang spoke, That day at the Sun family, it was my oversight. I failed to recognize Nephew Meng.

My father has never liked me getting involved in his work or inheriting his business, so I havent interacted much with Master Zhang. That day, it was my discourtesy. Your words are making me feel embarra.s.sed.

Gou Liang poured him another cup of tea, smiling as a form of apology.

Master Zhang smiled as he drank it, then sighed, To be honest, its my fault. Thanks to Nephew Mengs guidance that day, or else this time damaging my signboard is a small matter; causing harm to innocent lives would be a great sin.

Dont say that, Master Zhang. Even if I didnt speak up, you would have quickly noticed the situation. Besides, your intentions were good; its just that their blessings were limited, and they couldnt bear it.

Even though Gou Liang said this, Master Zhang accepted his kindness. If he hadnt pointed it out in advance, and if the problem had surfaced later, it would have tarnished his reputation.

Who among those eating this meal doesnt cherish their feathers?

Especially making such a low-level mistake, it was really his negligence.

Seeing that Gou Liang had no intention of taking credit, Master Zhang couldnt help but express his grat.i.tude. He took out a red envelope and said, A token of grat.i.tude, please dont refuse, Nephew Meng.

Gou Liang refused several times, but seeing Master Zhang insisting, he had no choice but to accept. Master Zhang sighed and said, If Nephew Meng could inherit Brother Mengs legacy, with your talents, you would surely have achieved something by now. Its just a pity

Gou Liang touched his right hand, which, although appearing normal, had become non-functional since the age of three. He couldnt perform any delicate tasks or lift heavy objects.

Bi Xia glanced at him, and the dimness in his eyes caused him to pause in his tea-drinking motion.

Master Zhang, being busy, couldnt stay for long. Gou Liang accompanied him downstairs, and Master Zhang said, Brother Meng left this shop to Nephew Meng. I believe Nephew Mengs vision is in line with his. If you come across anything valuable in the future, remember to contact Uncle.

Gou Liang a.s.sured him.

Before getting in the car, Master Zhang hesitated for a moment and said, Originally, I didnt want to show off my skills in front of Nephew Meng, but as an elder, I feel obliged to remind you. Your friend has a peculiar face, and I cant read it, but it seems like he has a soul less Nephew Meng might not know, but a person has

three souls and seven spirits

, and lacking one is crucial. If Nephew Meng has the ability, it wouldnt hurt to take a look for him. Its better than waiting until its irreversible.

Seeing Gou Liangs surprised expression, Master Zhang patted his shoulder and left in the car.

Gou Liang hurriedly went back upstairs.

What happened?

Seeing Gou Liang panting, Bi Xia frowned, stood up, and said, You have a heart condition. Avoid getting agitated.

Gou Liang grabbed his hand, opened his palm, and calculated along the palm lines. His face changed immediately.

Aning, why are you so panicked?

Do you do you know that youre missing one soul and one spirit?

I know.

Where did you lose them?!

I forgot.

Forgot?

How could something so important be forgotten?!

Seeing him start to breathe heavily, lips turning slightly purple, Bi Xia was surprised. He helped him sit down and said, That one soul and one spirit, even if its the soul of resentment and the spirit of non-toxicity, its not that important.

How can it not be important?!

Gou Liang, daring and unbridled, glared at him.

Resentment could be overlooked. The spirit of resentment was the source of anger, and one could say that all negative emotions were condensed here. Without it, while the personality wouldnt be complete and wouldnt get angry at anything, it didnt hinder one from living.

But that one soul was the soul of Yang shen!

The soul of Yang Shen, or the earthly soul, in todays terms, was the earth soul among the three souls of heaven, earth, and life destiny, governing the s.e.xual desire of yin and yang union. Once separated from the soul, although it didnt affect a persons lifespan and intelligence, it also stripped away their s.e.xual desire! In simple terms, without the earthly soul, a person would become s.e.xually indifferent.

Whether psychologically or physiologically.

Looking at Bi Xia, who exuded an atmosphere of forbidden desire, tears were about to burst from Gou Liangs eyes

He finally understood why the favorability stayed at 60 and didnt go up, because his dear target was way too upright. He didnt have any thoughts of physical contact with him at all!

Old Heavens, dont play with me like this; abstinence is an interest, but no desire is murder!

Aning, why are you crying?

Bi Xia, I will definitely find your soul and spirit for you.

Dont cry, its okay.

No, I must find them for you. You are incomplete, isnt it pitiful?

How can that be?

Sob, I must find them for you!

Three thousand years have pa.s.sed, its not easy.

What if the soul and spirit have already dissipated? The detached soul, rootless spirit, are difficult to coexist in the world.

Gou Liang burst into tears.