Transcending the Nine Heavens

Chapter 98: Enemies, What Once Was Familiar?

Han Xiaoran spoke as such, but he knew in his heart that he owed Chu Yang a tremendous debt of gratitude.

However, since Chu Yang did not seek credit, expressing endless thanks would only make him seem overly formal. In friendships, it is what comes later that matters; how things are at present matters less. Words spoken are sometimes better left unsaid.

So, he simply kept it in his heart and said nothing.

He only changed how he addressed Chu Yang to “older brother” and “little brother,” signaling a friendship that transcended age.

Sha Xinliang and the others understood even more the significance of Han Xiaoran's words “older brother and little brother,” looking at Chu Yang with expressions of joy.

Chu Yang felt a warmth in his heart upon seeing the gazes of the three. This feeling had not arisen since parting with Gu Duxing and the others.

“The chief enforcer's calling me ‘little brother’ is an extreme honor for me,” Chu Yang smiled.

Han Xiaoran fell silent for a moment and said, “For many years, ever since the brothers of that year vanished like smoke, becoming midnight dreams in my memories, I, Han Xiaoran, have never called anyone my brother.”

“The responsibilities of the enforcers are heavy and do not allow for forming cliques. But…” Han Xiaoran smiled bitterly, “The human heart needs comfort. Even a heart of iron and stone needs softness at times. This is a human need, not a matter of benefits.”

Han Xiaoran spoke somewhat gloomily: “Just as you, little brother, did not want to pressure me at first because you clearly knew how much trouble this matter would bring. But later, you still decisively took action, not out of deep affection for me, Han Xiaoran, nor because I promised you wealth and glory, but simply because of your recognition of my 1,200 years of fair enforcement, and nothing more.”

“This recognition is conscience!” Han Xiaoran emphasized this strongly, particularly the last two words.

“In my life, what I value the most is conscience!”

“So, for the sake of these two words, I, Han Xiaoran, am willing to befriend you, little brother!” Han Xiaoran smiled gently, “You have seen the part of my heart that cannot be shown to outsiders. And you have also seen your own purity.”

“You saved me not because of my power, and I wish to be friends with you not for your medical skills!”

“So you do not mention price, nor will I.” Han Xiaoran said, “Friendships come from mutual liking and understanding; words are unnecessary, a toast will suffice.”

“Well said!” This made Chu Yang's spirits soar: “Older brother, tonight, we must drink to our hearts' content!”

Han Xiaoran nodded with a smile.

“Who dares to go against little brother?” Sha Xinliang asked eagerly.

“It's quite embarrassing to say,” Chu Yang explained the whole matter, including his background, the conspiracy from back then, and the current situation, as well as the Ye Family's involvement…

Han Xiaoran's eyes flashed with cold light as he said, “Ye Wubo? Ye Shisan?”

Chu Yang smiled and said, “Older brother knows this person?”

Han Xiaoran was silent for a moment and said, “Ye Wubo is the thirteenth brother of the current patriarch of the Ye Family, a man of deep cunning and intelligence, who has always operated from the shadows. I didn't expect him to be the mastermind behind this matter.”

He pondered for a moment and added, “It seems the Ye Family has… grand ambitions.”

Chu Yang smiled faintly and said, “The Ye Family may be powerful, but whatever their plans, since this matter involves me personally, I won't care about how they are!”

Han Xiaoran said, “Little brother has great courage.” After a moment of thought, he continued, “This matter, older brother will take the blame for you. However… you must be mentally prepared. While older brother can handle the small waves of the Ye Family for you, if this matter reaches the larger schemes of the Ye Family and involves any far-reaching plans… if it attracts the attention of the supreme, older brother cannot bear that. Therefore, we must plan thoroughly.”