A week had passed since Xu Fang resolved to put his head down and work. True to his nature, he hadn't stepped foot outside the Xu family estate.
In that time, he had thrown himself into studying and martial arts training with unwavering focus. His days were a whirlwind of history, governance, literature, and ceremonies, broken only by grueling sessions of the 32 Fist and Kick Techniques under his eldest sister's watchful (and merciless) eye every morning.
Surprisingly, his family was nothing but supportive. His father even refrained from his usual scoldings, and his siblings offered advice and encouragement whenever they could. It was… heartwarming, to say the least.
He was never close to his sibling in his previous world, except for his niece and nephew.
More unnerving was the steady stream of friends the previous body owner had accumulated.
One by one, they visited the Xu estate, eager to drag him out for fun and games. But Xu Fang, with his newfound reputation for diligence, politely refused every single one of them. "I'm studying," he'd say with a serious tone, earning nods of approval from his family every time.
He hadn't realized just how far behind the original Xu Fang was until this week. The man could barely manage basic social graces, let alone the knowledge required of a young master. Reading, writing, and arithmetic were his only saving graces. Everything else was an uphill battle.
Xu Fang's hard work seemed to be paying off, though. His family's pride in him was almost palpable. He had successfully avoided any unnecessary outings, maintaining his status as a shut-in while still fulfilling his duties.
Until today.
"Xu Fang," his eldest sister Xu Mei called out during breakfast, her tone deceptively cheerful.
He immediately felt a chill run down his spine.
"Yes, Sister?" he replied cautiously, setting down his chopsticks.
"I'm going shopping this afternoon," she said, her eyes twinkling with something dangerous. "And you're coming with me."
His heart sank.
"Why?" His tone was calm, but internally, alarms were blaring.
"You've been cooped up in the house all week," she said, waving a dismissive hand. "You need fresh air. Besides, I could use some company."
"But—" he began, searching for an excuse, any excuse.
"No buts," she interrupted, her voice firm. "Father already approved."
Of course, he did.
Xu Fang looked at his father, who was calmly sipping his tea, ignoring the silent plea in his son's eyes.
"Well, I…" he tried again.
"No arguing, little brother," Xu Mei said, standing and clapping him on the shoulder with enough force to make him wince. "We leave after lunch."
And just like that, his carefully constructed shut-in bubble burst.
After lunch, Xu Fang found himself being dragged out of the estate by Xu Mei, who looked far too pleased with herself.
He sighed, resigning himself to his fate. Why? he lamented inwardly. Why couldn't she go alone?
The streets of the city were bustling with activity, a stark contrast to the quiet solitude of the Xu estate. Merchants shouted their wares, children ran through the crowds, and the scent of roasted meats and fresh pastries filled the air.
Xu Fang could feel the stares of passersby as they recognized the Xu family siblings. Xu Mei's confident stride and striking presence made her impossible to miss, while Xu Fang did his best to blend into her shadow.
"So, where are we going?" he asked, trying to keep his voice steady.
"There's a new fabric merchant I've been meaning to visit," Xu Mei said, flashing him a grin. "And after that, we'll see where the day takes us."
Fantastic, Xu Fang thought bitterly. A whole day of this.
He followed her through the crowded streets, his discomfort growing with every step. His mind wandered back to the safety of his books, his room, his quiet sanctuary.
But no, here he was, dragged into the chaotic outside world, with no escape in sight.
Well, he thought grimly. It can't get worse than this… right?
Fate, as always, was ready to prove him wrong.
Xu Fang found himself in the bustling market, dutifully following behind Xu Mei as she flitted from stall to stall.
"This is a phoenix jade hairpin," Xu Mei explained, holding up a delicately carved piece of jewelry. "The design represents elegance and prosperity. It's perfect for someone who appreciates traditional styles."
She turned to him with a smirk. "You should remember this kind of thing, little brother. A good gift can leave quite the impression on a girl."
Xu Fang blinked at her, unsure how to respond. "Uh… noted," he said dryly, though inwardly he scoffed. As if I'll ever need that information. Bringing a girl home? Impossible.
He was mentally twice his apparent age, and his interest in romance was, at best, theoretical. He much preferred the solitude of his room to the complications of relationships. Still, Xu Mei seemed determined to impart her wisdom on the subject.
"And look at this!" she said, pointing to a silk fan embroidered with golden cranes. "Elegant yet practical. A fan like this could double as a decorative piece or a functional accessory for formal events. Girls love things like this."
Do they, though? Xu Fang thought, but he wisely kept his mouth shut.
As they moved through the market, Xu Mei continued to chatter about various items, explaining their significance, their uses, and—most importantly—their prices. Xu Fang listened halfheartedly, his mind wandering back to the library.
Then, as they rounded a corner, Xu Mei abruptly stopped.
"Ah, there she is," she said, her tone shifting to something more formal.
Xu Fang followed her gaze and saw a young woman standing near a jewelry stall. She was tall and elegant, with sharp, intelligent eyes and a dignified air that commanded respect. She was accompanied by two maids who stood a step behind her, carrying various parcels.
Xu Fang's stomach dropped as realization dawned on him.
Oh. So this is why she dragged me here.
The young woman turned and noticed them, her expression brightening. She approached gracefully, her poise never faltering.
"Xu Mei," she greeted warmly. "It's good to see you."
"Yan Ling," Xu Mei replied with a smile, her tone equally warm.
Ah, so this was Yan Ling, the eldest daughter of the Yan family, one of the four ruling families in the city.
And also his sister sworn sister.
The two women exchanged pleasantries, their conversation flowing effortlessly. Xu Fang stood awkwardly to the side, unsure whether to interject or simply remain invisible.
Finally, Yan Ling's gaze shifted to him. "And this must be your younger brother," she said with a polite smile. "I've heard much about you, Xu Fang."
Great, Xu Fang thought, forcing a smile. "It's an honor to meet you, Miss Yan."
"Oh, please, call me Yan Ling," she said, her voice pleasant but firm. "We'll be attending the Azure Flame Academy together, after all."
Xu Fang's suspicions were confirmed. This was clearly a calculated meeting, likely orchestrated by their families. The Xu and Yan families were political equals, and sending their children to the academy together was undoubtedly a strategic move.
"I look forward to it," Xu Fang said diplomatically, though inwardly he groaned.
Xu Mei, of course, took the opportunity to encourage the connection. "You'll get along well," she said. "Xu Fang has been working hard lately, and I know he'll do great at the academy. I'm sure you two can help each other there."
Yan Ling nodded thoughtfully. "Indeed. Cooperation is always beneficial."
Xu Fang forced another smile, his mind racing. Help each other? More like they expect me to be her shadow.
As the conversation continued, Xu Fang resigned himself to his fate. This was clearly going to be a long day—and an even longer year at the academy.
Xu Fang wandered deeper into the market, leaving Xu Mei and Yan Ling behind to engage in whatever social machinations they were planning. While he had no great love for trinkets or accessories, he found himself drawn to a stall showcasing finely crafted wooden figurines.
The craftsmanship was impeccable. Each figurine was carved with incredible detail, capturing the essence of its subject—a farmer with a scythe, a soldier mid-battle stance, a general exuding authority, a scholar in thought, and even an emperor seated on a grand throne.
Some were small enough to fit in the palm of his hand, while others were slightly larger, meant for display on a shelf. Xu Fang felt a pang of nostalgia.
In my previous life, I used to collect miniature figurines. I'd line them up and imagine myself as a god overseeing their tiny world, he thought wistfully.
He ran his fingers over the carvings, admiring their artistry, when something unusual caught his attention.
A figurine of a monster—an imposing creature with a snarling face and claws—stood slightly apart from the others. Embedded in its forehead was a small, dull stone.
At first, it seemed like a simple decorative element, but as Xu Fang stared, he noticed a faint, almost imperceptible glow emanating from the stone.
What's this? he wondered, leaning in closer. The faint light pulsed rhythmically, like a heartbeat.
Curious, he picked up the figurine, turning it over in his hands. "Excuse me," he called to the vendor, "what's this stone in the figurine's head?"
The vendor glanced at the figurine and shrugged. "Just a decorative piece, young master. Nothing special. Purely for show."
Xu Fang frowned. The vendor didn't seem to notice the faint glow at all.
He looked back at the figurine, studying it closely. Suddenly, a mechanical voice echoed in his mind.
"Spiritual energy detected. Would you like to absorb it?"