Chapter Thirty-Six: Gathering Storm

"How could something like that possibly happen? I'm a soldier!" Haotian shook his head, smiling wryly at himself.

"Haopo! Let me ask you something," Haotian said, sword in hand, casually hacking away the branches blocking their path.

"If you're going to ask why he wants to kill me, don't bother." Haopo lifted his head, gazing at the sky as he spoke slowly.

"Why?" Haotian was instantly bewildered by Haopo's words.

"Because I have no idea," Haopo answered without a hint of hesitation. "I sense he wants the sword in my hand."

"The heavy sword?" Haoyun asked.

"Yes."

"If he wanted the sword, he could simply ask for it! Why would he want to kill you?" Haotian asked, perplexed.

"Perhaps he knows," Haoyun replied.

"He knows that even if he asks, he won't get it, right?" Haotian rolled his eyes at Haoyun.

Upon hearing this, Haopo frowned, his lips trembling as if he wished to speak, but finally he held his tongue, looking as though he had words left unsaid.

After all, this sword has been passed down through generations. Those who can wield it are so few, one could count them on a single hand. Most of the time, it sits untouched in the armory, gathering dust.

Lending it to others isn’t impossible; there have been precedents. Yet, it is not merely a matter of choosing the sword—the sword chooses its bearer, a matter of fate.

Before, it was idle, but now the seal is almost broken, and the Sword Master has appeared.

It’s not just luck that allows one to claim it.

In these times, possessing a fine weapon can greatly amplify one’s power. But if one lacks the strength, people driven by desire will fight to the death for it; such tragedies are common.

To borrow something, especially a weapon, one's reputation, social status, and spoken words matter immensely.

If someone has a good reputation, even something of immense value could be lent for a few favors or exchanged for goods.

But for a villain, no matter how much gold or treasure he offers—even more than its worth—he will not get it.

And the Lin family, with their stellar reputation and noble lineage, could borrow a sword with ease.

"A sword is not what matters most. What matters is that it was entrusted to me, and I must hold it tightly! It is a responsibility!"

As Haopo spoke, his hand clenched unconsciously, and his mood began to shift.

"But that’s the Lin family! Is it really wise for us to break ties with them?" Haoyun asked anxiously.

"That’s not for us to worry about. Our task is simply to complete the mission. Besides, he hasn’t even asked to borrow the sword—if he did, we might not lend it anyway!" Haopo replied without a trace of concern.

With just a few words, the matter was settled. If the sky falls, there are taller people to bear it; matters beyond the bounds of their rules were not theirs to resolve.

"Hey, Haotian, don’t be upset. If she doesn’t care much for you, it’s useless to grieve!" Haoyun patted Haotian’s shoulder from behind.

Haotian forced a smile. Life was hard enough; at least the mission was done. Better to dwell on the reward for completing it—cheer up!

"Xiaoshan, why did you lose control?" Ruoxi asked softly.