Chapter 106: The Sword Immortal's Wine (Part One)

Yan Shan was drowsy and sluggish, lying beside him as Luo Gan did not return to rest until very late. The lights never flickered—one could only guess that Luo Gan either groped his way to bed in the dark or waited until dawn had broken.

Early the next morning, Yan Shan stretched and yawned continuously. He often found that the troubles he encountered were not so great. After all, his parents were just tavern owners in a small town. Yet, from a young age, he had disliked staying at home. Though clever and quick to learn, his relationship with his parents was strained, overshadowed by several elder brothers. As the fifth son, he was hardly valued; the family’s secret brewing recipe was never passed down to him. So what could he do? With no benefits to be had, he had no choice but to venture out and make his own way.

Those around him certainly did not understand. They said if he helped out with odd chores at the family tavern, “Even the leanest camel is bigger than a horse.” With their support, at least he wouldn’t starve. Yan Shan thought they were right, but none of it touched his true feelings. After long reflection, he decided to leave that home, sever ties with his parents and brothers, and pursue what he truly desired. One day, he vowed, he would return in glory and prove them all wrong.

Only by stepping out beyond the walls of his former life could he perceive the difference and truly discern right from wrong. Secretly slipping out of town, he joined a caravan headed south to Jiangnan to do business and broaden his horizons. But what happened? When the caravan reached Anping County, they were ambushed by ruthless bandits. The leader refused to give up the goods and was brutally slain. The rest, terrified, surrendered their cargo. Predictably, the caravan had no choice but to stay in Anping County, relying on acquaintances to find lodging.

Compared to the uncomfortable bed he used to sleep on, the rooms outside were far better, protected from the wind. Yan Shan thought himself somewhat clever and unafraid of the world, but soon he was swindled out of all his money. Out here, he had to depend solely on himself, doing odd jobs to scrape by—not like at home, where he could slack off when tired. He tried to work as a tavern assistant, but no one would hire him, citing the secret family recipe that was never shared. For survival, he helped butchers, sewed for tailors, and sharpened weapons for blacksmiths—any work that would earn him a meal.

Two years passed this way. Yan Shan often hesitated whether to return home and swallow his pride to apologize to his parents. But having been away so long, living a simple, lonely life in Anping County with no real ties, he doubted anything significant would happen. Then, just as this thought crossed his mind, he came across a recruitment notice—and that led to today’s meeting.

If Tiger Er had joined out of loyalty to Luo Gan, Liu Bu Wen to showcase his talents, and Xiao Zhi to seek opportunities for his craft, what about Yan Shan? Was it fame? Wealth? Neither seemed quite right. The years of hardship had made him adapt to this rhythm, gradually resolving the conflict within himself and finding balance—accepting who he was. If he had to name a reason, perhaps it was loneliness. Loneliness made him think of home, and now, having met Luo Gan and experienced so many fantastical adventures, life felt like a dream—frightening, unstable, yet truly fascinating.

Watching Luo Gan sleep soundly, Yan Shan moved carefully so as not to disturb him and gently covered their leader with a blanket. Snow had settled on every corner of Chang’an city. Early risers swept the snow from their doorsteps and busily headed to their daily tasks, as meticulous and unvarying as clockwork.

“The president is truly a remarkable man! Could he be a Bodhisattva? He often sees through the workings of the world and speaks of things I had never pondered before. No matter how hard I try, I doubt I will ever reach his level,” Yan Shan mused. Though he could not always keep pace with Luo Gan’s thoughts or fully grasp his intentions, he believed his actions were logical and governed by some profound principle.

Take, for instance, Luo Gan’s declaration that he wished to create a world of gender equality. What boldness! Where else would one hear that women should not merely be confined to domestic duties? Who benefits from such strange ideas? “A woman’s virtue lies in her lack of talent,” people said—when courting a girl, they would shower her with flowery words and riches, either passionately or coldly. Yet Luo Gan actually told Jun Tao about his vision for gender equality. How truly intriguing.

Smiling to himself, Yan Shan suddenly recalled that by the time Luo Gan awoke, the morning market would likely be over and that finding food nearby would require a long walk. He decided to get ready and buy something to bring back for when Luo Gan woke.

Stepping outside, he bumped into Xiao Zhi, who was half asleep and heading to the latrine. Their heads collided, instantly sobering them both.

“Ouch! Watch where you’re going, sir! No, no, I’m just leading you to your table—the dishes are coming right up!” Xiao Zhi blurted reflexively, then laughed upon recognizing Yan Shan and patted his head.

“Oh, it’s you! I thought I ran into a customer. How can you walk around so carelessly?”

“Brother Xiao Zhi, up bright and early? I’m just heading out—need me to bring you anything?” Yan Shan smiled nonchalantly.

Xiao Zhi thought a moment, shook his head, and Yan Shan sighed deeply.

“Brother Xiao Zhi, you really should tinker with your gadgets more. Otherwise, we’re so alike people won’t know who’s who when we stand together.”

Xiao Zhi suddenly understood, clapped his hands, and started back. Yan Shan was puzzled at first, then heard him say, “I just remembered I haven’t finished carving that piece. I better get on it!”

In and out in a flash, Yan Shan forced a wry smile and set off alone into the bustling street.

As the market opened, vendors cleared their throats and shouted their wares. Stalls sprang up along the lanes. The diverse crowds and dazzling goods failed to catch Yan Shan’s attention; he was initially there to find food, but a nagging question weighed on his mind.

“What am I to the president, really?” His concern was not unfounded. There was Liu Bu Wen, wise and strategic, who could advise Luo Gan and had prospects of a promising official career. Xiao Zhi was a craftsman with clever tricks—unreliable at times, but skilled and with a bright future. Tiger Er, though absent, was fiercely loyal and surprisingly sensitive. Jun Tao was Luo Gan’s confidante and possibly future tavern mistress, though their relationship remained just out of reach.

And himself? Once a clever, capable junior, if he continued as a mere bystander, his efforts would soon be forgotten and wasted. The more he thought, the more restless he became, his throat dry and parched.

Suddenly, at the end of the street, he noticed a tavern. Hanging above its door was a sword, sharp and gleaming coldly, suspended in midair above a jar of wine. This caught Yan Shan’s attention. Inside, a sign hung on the wine jar, clearly inscribed: Sword Immortal Wine.