Arc 14: Dayan Empire | Chapter 242: Sword Boy
Translator: Lynn
The Nascent Soul elder buried his nose in the snow-white neck of the female cultivator, inhaling deeply, a trace of contentment crossing his usually serious countenance. “Yes, you shall accompany me as a maid,” he declared.
A glint of joy flickered in the female cultivator’s eyes as her body softened. She gently touched the ancestor’s chest with her jade hand, brushing away a tear as she whispered softly, “Thank you for your kindness…”
Observing this interaction, those in attendance, most of whom possessed strong wills due to their cultivation levels, displayed a mix of envy and desire upon witnessing the tender exchange.
Witnessing the smoothness of the woman’s approach, the other stunning female cultivators swiftly followed suit, each vying for the attention of the patriarchs. While the Foundation Establishment cultivators took the initiative, the Qi Refining cultivators hesitated before succumbing to the same pattern, eager to please and be chosen.
For these elders, the embrace of a beautiful maid provided a welcome diversion during the dull wait, and the allure of offerings was ever-present. Thus, soon, many patriarchs were ensconced with their chosen companions.
Even Xuanze, accustomed to the presence of numerous beauties, indulged in selecting a companion. However, his reactions differed from the rest.
Approaching Xi Lin, a striking beauty presented herself, only to be rebuffed as he brandished his spirit sword. “I have no need for assistance, leave,” he curtly dismissed her, causing her to appear on the verge of tears. Unmoved by her distress, Xi Lin remained stoic, his focus solely on his sword.
Witnessing this, the other two female cultivators in the vicinity found themselves similarly rejected.
Meanwhile, two male cultivators, situated in a distant corner, drew attention. One exuded a powerful yet chilling aura, while the other, with a gentler demeanor, emitted a softer energy. Despite their differences, both seemed to convey a rejection of the maidens’ advances.
However, as guests, they couldn’t be compelled to accept the offers. Thus, the three remaining maidens had no choice but to leave empty-handed, inwardly lamenting their misfortune.
Observing this, the stewardess couldn’t help but harbor suspicions. Could it be that he truly wasn’t interested in women?
With a change of heart, she produced a silver bell and rang it lightly.
Shortly after, several young men entered the room, each possessing an alluring charm and a unique aura.
Xu Ziqing was taken aback by their entrance.
Observing that these youths were not attired like typical servants, he pondered why they had been summoned. It dawned on him that they might serve as guides during the auction, introducing attendees to the proceedings. He marveled at the thoughtfulness of the Longhang firm.
Yet, despite his admiration, Xu Ziqing, still a youth in both past and present lives, couldn’t comprehend the finer nuances of such arrangements, especially those of a more adult nature.
Unaware of Xu Ziqing’s thoughts, the stewardess, drawing on her extensive experience, recognized that some esteemed guests preferred the company of men. Although unconventional, she was determined to accommodate their preferences, ensuring their comfort and satisfaction.
The young men, aware of the situation, approached the cultivators who had been left without female companions.
This turn of events startled Xu Ziqing.
Although he admired his senior brother, he himself was not inclined towards masculine companionship and was surprised by the unexpected turn of events. He hadn’t imagined that the Longhang Firm would even train such young men. Thankfully, his senior brother intervened with his sword intent, preventing them from approaching further. Relieved, Xu Ziqing smiled at Yun Lie.
Acknowledging Xu Ziqing’s reaction, Yun Lie transmitted his reassurance, “This is quite common, don’t be alarmed.”
With Yun Lie’s words, Xu Ziqing’s nerves settled, though he remained taken aback by the scene.
The two brothers once again declined the offer from the young man. Convinced that they were likely ascetics, the stewardess refrained from further attempts and considered recalling the two young men.
However, just then, an elderly ancestor waved his robe sleeves, drawing the seductive young man towards him, embracing him momentarily, and said with a smile, “I’m rather interested in this one too. Why don’t you let me have him as well?”
Another Nascent Soul cultivator also claimed another beautiful young man.
Reasoning that gifting the young men to the Nascent Soul ancestors was a gesture of goodwill, the stewardess saw no issue with the situation. She then turned her attention to the handsome young man, who stood before Xi Lin, holding his wrist and seemingly reluctant to let go.
Satisfied with the developments, the stewardess concluded that the young man understood the situation. She instructed, “Since the esteemed gentleman has taken a liking to you, accompany him and serve him well. Do not be negligent.”
The handsome young man nodded, though perhaps due to his less subtle demeanor compared to the young woman, he didn’t hesitate to allow Xi Lin to grasp his hand.
Once Xi Lin released him, the young man stood respectfully behind Xi Lin, displaying docility.
With the arrangements made, the stewardess departed, leaving the occupants to converse freely, knowing that outsiders couldn’t easily intrude.
As conversations ensued, Yin Chenghao, Xuan Ze’s advisor and friend of Xi Lin, couldn’t resist teasing, “So, Xi Lin, you’re not as pure-hearted as you appear, are you?”
Don’t talk nonsense, I see him as a body of yang water, and there is a The water spirit root is in the body, although it is a miscellaneous attribute, but it is quite suitable for practicing my sword art, just make me a sword boy, it is not as you said…” Nasty.
Xi Lin, his gaze sharp, retorted, “Don’t speak nonsense. I see potential in him for swordsmanship due to his attributes. He has the body of yang water and has water spirit root. He may be suitable for practicing my sword techniques. Just make him my sword boy. It’s not as you said…”
Hearing this, Yin Chenghao couldn’t help being dumb, and then shook his head and laughed: “It’s boring, it’s boring. I see that you will have to spend the rest of your life with your natal spirit sword in the future. A couple of cultivators and Daoists, and a romantic relationship, you don’t have to think about it in this life.”
Xi Lin snorted coldly. He said: “My heart is for the way of swordsmanship, and I don’t need anything else!”
The two said a few words in this way, and naturally they were heard by those who cared.
Hearing this exchange, others couldn’t help but overhear, including the handsome young man. Initially startled by the term “Sword Boy,” he soon showed signs of joy.
Observing this, Xu Ziqing became curious and asked Yun Lie via telepathy, “Senior brother, what does ‘Sword Boy’ mean?” It seemed to excite the young man.
Yun Lie considered for a moment before replying, “A ‘Sword Boy’ is someone who bears the responsibility of raising a sword.”
In the mundane realm, a “Sword Boy” typically refers to a young boy wielding a sword. However, in the realm of cultivation, it carries a different connotation, representing one who shoulders the responsibility of nurturing a sword.
Sword cultivators often keep their natal spirit swords close, meticulously maintaining them daily to establish a mental connection and ensure they respond as desired. Nevertheless, even spiritual swords experience wear and tear. In the event of damage to the sword’s physical form, its spiritual essence may also suffer. Thus, a sword boy is essential to nourish the sword and restore its spiritual vitality.
Finding a suitable sword boy entails numerous criteria. They must possess a physique harmonious with the sword master, compatible spiritual roots, and train in complementary martial techniques. Additionally, they must maintain purity of body and mind, abstaining from sexual indulgence.
Given these stringent requirements, locating a capable sword boy is no easy feat. However, the handsome young man recommended by the stewardess happened to meet all criteria, making him an ideal candidate for Xi Lin. He envisioned nurturing the young man to support his future sword cultivation endeavors.
For the handsome youth, the prospect of practicing high-level techniques without resorting to sexual favors was a welcome opportunity. He eagerly embraced the chance to serve as a sword boy.
Upon hearing Yun Lie’s explanation, Xu Ziqing gained clarity on the matter. Reflecting on the plight of these youths, he lamented their circumstances.
These boys and girls were all to serve as cauldron bodies because of their special constitution. If they possessed multiple spiritual roots, they could still find opportunities as disciples in smaller sects. Even if they can’t join large sects, they can still be a disciple in a small sect, where one has to work hard unremittingly. Along with the blessing of luck, they might make a good fate.
But now they can only rely on luck, if they follow a good master, they may have a good result in the future, if they follow a bad one… they can only rely on Heaven’s will.
Contemplating these thoughts, Xu Ziqing shifted his focus away from the enticing distractions of the maidservants and youths. Recognizing his inability to influence their situation, he remained detached from their flirtations and frivolities.
As the bell signaled the start of the auction, Xu Ziqing refocused his attention, ready to engage in the proceedings ahead.
Please let me know if there are typos/mistakes in the chapter.
Support me on ko-fi if you like what I do^^