Chapter 2: Heart in Abyss
Eight months had passed since Hua Cheng's departure, leaving Xie Lian devastated. His days blurred together in a haze of sorrow.
Xie Lian's visits to Hua Cheng's shrine became frequent, sometimes spending days lost in memories. Feng Xin would occasionally retrieve him, while other times, Xie Lian would wander to Ghost City, seeking solace in wine.
One evening, He Xuan spotted Xie Lian at Paradise Manor, now under his management.
"Master, the Crown Prince of Xinle is by the gate again. Shall we invite him in or take him home this time?" a lady servant asked, bowing.
He Xuan sighed, rising from his seat. "I'll settle it. You're released."
As he stepped outside, he almost tripped over Xie Lian. He Xuan's expression faltered, torn between laughter and tears.
"Flower-Crowned Martial God, what brings you here tonight?" He Xuan asked, gaze softening.
Xie Lian struggled to stand, his voice laced with anguish. "Please, He Xuan, don't call me a Martial God. I don't deserve such a title. I'm but a shadow, lost and broken."
He Xuan offered his hand, helping Xie Lian up. "Should I call Shi Qingxuan to take you home?"
Xie Lian's eyes welled up. "No, don't call him. I've lost Hua Cheng's ashes necklace... I tried to drown my sorrow."
He Xuan's expression turned somber. "Those ashes hold no value or power, Xie Lian."
Xie Lian's voice trembled. "They're precious to me. Black Water Submerging Ghost, I've lost him... I'm unworthy. Help me find peace, He Xuan. Let me join my lover."
Just then, Shi Qingxuan arrived. "Ming Xin, I see you have my friend. May I take him back?"
He Xuan handed Xie Lian over, concern etched on his face. "I apologize for the trouble Xie Lian causes."
Shi Qingxuan nodded sympathetically. "No need to apologize, Ming Xin. Grief is a weighty burden."
As Shi Qingxuan guided Xie Lian away, He Xuan pondered the depth of their connection.
"Hua Cheng and the Martial Prince... their longing mirrors each other's despair, as if their souls are bound together, transcending life and death."
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Die with me in paradise
Romance"The wait is over, but the truth is shattering. Hua Cheng, once the invincible Ghost King, returns mortal. Xie Lian's reunion with his lover is now tainted with uncertainty. What darkness has claimed Hua Cheng's immortality, and can their love overc...
