ALL NOVEL Chapter 14: Chapter
The weather is rainy, with a gentle drizzle pattering on the ground outside of the classroom. The overcast afternoon sky cast a somber light over the classroom, where Li Tianhuan and Yan Yueqing sat attentively, their gazes fixed on the academy elder. The elder stood at the front, his voice steady and authoritative as he spoke. "All of you have three months, before we will hold the year-end examinations. Your performance will determine which team you will join after the academy. That's it, you can go."
As soon as the elder dismissed them, the students began to file out of the classroom, the sound of hurried footsteps mingling with the faint patter of rain. They pulled their robes tightly around their bodies, shielding themselves from the drizzle as they dashed toward their homes. The overcast sky lent a melancholic tone to the scene, with raindrops clinging to the fabric of their garments and running in tiny rivulets down their hoods.
Li Tianhuan and Yan Yueqing lingered slightly behind, their conversation unhurried as they walked together to the intersection where their paths diverged. The air was crisp and carried the faint earthy scent of wet soil, a refreshing contrast to the somber atmosphere. As they reached the fork in the road, they both paused, the quiet rain filling the space between them.
"Well," Li Tianhuan said, his voice calm, "I will see you later, bye."
Yan Yueqing nodded, her amber eyes soft with a mix of thoughtfulness and the subdued energy of the day. "Yes, see you and remember to come to Dinner."
With a faint smile, Li Tianhuan gave a slight nod and watched as she turned toward her path. Then, adjusting his own hood against the drizzle, he began his walk home, the rhythmic sound of rain accompanying his steps.
Upon reaching his house, Li Tianhuan shed his damp outer robe and made his way to the washroom. The soothing warmth of the water washed away the chill of the rain, leaving him feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. After drying off, he selected a fresh robe from his modest wardrobe.
The new robe was a deep indigo, its fabric smooth and finely woven, with subtle patterns resembling flowing clouds embroidered in silver thread along the edges. The cuffs and collar were adorned with intricate designs of mist and waves, giving the garment an elegant yet understated appearance. The robe fit him perfectly, its flowing sleeves and hem adding an air of quiet sophistication as he moved.
Satisfied with his appearance, Li Tianhuan stepped into the main room, his mind already turning to the evening ahead and the invitation from Yan Yueqing's family.
In a large wooden house located on the eastern side of the village, the warm glow of lanterns spilled through the windows, illuminating the misty surroundings. Li Tianhuan stood in front of the intricately carved door, his indigo robe catching the soft light as he took a steadying breath.
Right as Tianhuan was about to knock on the door, it swung open to reveal Yueqing. She was dressed in a flowing, soft lavender gown, its delicate embroidery catching the lantern light. Her hair was neatly tied back, with a few loose strands framing her face, adding to her natural charm.
When she saw Tianhuan, a warm smile spread across her lips, her cheeks tinged with a noticeable blush. "Li Tian, come in," she said softly, stepping aside to let him enter. (Guys, I am going to call him as Li Tian, not Li Tianhuan.)
The interior of the house was spacious, with polished wooden floors that reflected the warm glow of lanterns hanging from the ceiling. Intricately carved wooden beams supported the structure, their designs depicting flowing clouds and blooming flowers.
The dining hall was at the center, its large rectangular table made of dark oak and surrounded by high-backed chairs with cushioned seats. Shelves lined the walls, holding neatly arranged scrolls, vases, and other decorative items that added an air of refinement to the room.
As they entered the dining hall, Yueqing gestured toward her family members, who were already seated. "This is my grandfather, Yan Shu," she said, motioning to an elderly man with sharp features and a dignified presence, his eyes carrying a wisdom born of many years. "My mother, Yan Mei," she continued, indicating a woman with gentle eyes and a kind smile. "And my younger brother, Yan Jing," she finished, nodding toward a boy who looked to be around ten, his curious gaze fixed on Li Tianhuan.
Li Tianhuan offered a polite bow to each of them. "It's an honor to meet you all," he said, his tone respectful but steady.
Yan Yueqing's father died in an assassination attempt by someone, her father had an A-grade aptitude after all, some were jealous and killed him that is what Li Tian thought was inner conflict, like what Fang Yuan says where there are people there will be conflicts.
Yan Shu, Yueqing's grandfather, studied him intently for a moment before speaking. "So, you are the one Yueqing told me about. You've awakened B-grade talent—that's good," he said, his voice calm yet weighty with significance. "Come, sit down. Later, I need to discuss something important about your future."
"Thank you," Li Tianhuan replied, nodding as he followed the family toward the table, curiosity piqued by Yan Shu's words.
The meal proceeded with a warm yet reserved atmosphere. The aroma of freshly cooked dishes filled the air as plates of steamed buns, roasted meats, and fragrant vegetables were passed around the table. Conversations flowed intermittently, centered mostly around the village and cultivation progress.
Once the meal concluded, Yan Shu stood up and gestured toward the back of the house. "Li Tian, come with me," he said, his tone firm yet composed. "Let's talk in the study."
Li Tianhuan followed Yan Shu through a narrow corridor lit by faint lantern light. The hallway led to a secluded room at the rear of the house. The study was modest but well-organized, with shelves lined with scrolls and books. A large wooden desk stood in the center, and the faint scent of ink and parchment lingered in the air.
Yan Shu motioned for Li Tianhuan to sit across from him as he settled into a sturdy chair behind the desk. The elder's expression turned serious, and the weight of the moment pressed down on the room as their conversation began.