In the early morning light, Yan Qing strolled leisurely through the outer courtyard of the Yan Clan estate, his expression calm, though his gaze carried a hint of wistfulness. Tall and slender, with shoulder-length black hair and eyes dark as the night, Yan Qing was a sight to marvel at.
As the eldest son of the prestigious Yan Clan, Yan Qing had always been expected to take his place as a leader, a rising star in the city of Xuanwu. However, in a world where cultivation talent was everything, Yan Qing doesn't have telent for cultivation. No amount of training or resources could help him, despite countless attempts, he remained in the lowest rank of Qi Condensation, far below his peers.
"Young Master Yan Qing," an elder in blue robes inclined his head as he passed by, his gaze respectful yet fleeting. There was neither admiration nor disdain in his look—simply obligation.
Yan Qing returned the nod but felt the all-too-familiar hollow pang in his chest. He knew well that, without the protection of his fiancée, Su Xiyue, those polite nods would turn to dismissive sneers.
"Yan Qing! Still slacking off, are we?" came a teasing voice, one that managed to balance both jest and respect. Yan Qing turned to see Yan Wei, a cousin who trained diligently in martial arts and had long since surpassed him in cultivation.
"Ah, Yan Wei. Good morning." Yan Qing forced a smile, his tone light.
Yan Wei chuckled, folding his arms. "If only you could channel some of your charm into your training. Imagine—our Yan Clan's young master truly living up to the title."
Yan Qing laughed softly, though his smile didn't quite reach his eyes. "If talent were so easily changed, perhaps I could show you up for once."
Yan Wei smirked but said no more. Even he knew that there was a line not to cross—because of Su Xiyue. Though Yan Wei might jest, Yan Qing knew he wouldn't dare to push further. Su Xiyue was not just a prodigy; she was a force, respected and feared by the younger generation of every clan in Xuanwu City. Her aura alone had cowed men twice her age. She was young lady of Su Family and they been engaged to each other before they born.
After it for confirmed that Yan Qing was a waste, he thought Su Xiyue might break the engegment but she didn't. Yan Qing's life shielded by her formidable reputation.
As Yan Wei moved on, Yan Qing resumed his quiet path toward the training grounds, watching others practice as he passed. Young disciples sparred, their bodies moving with grace and precision, the energy radiating from them reminding Yan Qing of how distant he felt from it all.
"Young Master Yan Qing!" A gentle voice interrupted his thoughts. He turned to see one of the servants, Xiao Mei, hurrying over with a letter. Her expression was unusually bright as she offered it to him. "This letter just arrived from Lady Su Xiyue."
Surprised, Yan Qing took the letter, noticing the familiar, bold strokes of her handwriting. A faint warmth crept into his heart. Su Xiyue's letters were infrequent but always thoughtful.
Opening it, Yan Qing read quietly:
"Yan Qing, I trust you are well. I hear rumors that certain elders are pushing you to take on some responsibilities in the clan. Do not worry; I have written to your father. They will not force anything upon you. Rest assured, you have my word and my support."
A subtle smile graced his lips as he folded the letter, tucking it away in his robe. Despite their differences in strength and standing, Su Xiyue never showed him pity, only encouragement. He felt unworthy of this affection.
As Yan Qing left the training grounds, a few clan members stole glances, whispering to each other as he passed by.
"Did you see that letter?" one murmured, enviously. "Lady Su Xiyue treats him like family, not like some weakling."
Another chuckled, lowering his voice. "If it weren't for her, he'd never get away with being so… unremarkable."
But Yan Qing paid them no mind.