Ch - 29 Affection

<p>In a room adorned entirely with "double happiness" red cloth, Swayam, donned in a vibrant red wedding robe, was enjoying a peaceful night's slumber. The transformation of his bedroom into a wedding chamber was a result of his grandfather Xiao Lie and aunt Xiao Lingxi's meticulous preparations the night before.<br/><br/>As the morning light streamed in, Swayam stood before the mirror, inspecting his appearance. In that moment, the door to his room swung open, and a graceful figure entered with haste. Swayam shifted his gaze away from the mirror, turning towards her with a warm smile as he inquired, "Little Xi, has grandfather returned?"<br/><br/>Xiao Lingxi, though always somewhat unsettled when addressed as 'little Xi,' couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement. For him to acknowledge her as more than just a relative, as a member of the opposite gender, stirred emotions she knew were forbidden but couldn't deny her longing for his affection.<br/><br/>Swayam noticed Xiao Lingxi lost in her thoughts and gently waved his hand in front of her, successfully regaining her attention.<br/><br/>"Little Xi, is everything okay?" Concern laced Swayam's voice as he observed her flushed complexion.<br/><br/>Xiao Lingxi, the daughter of Xiao Lie from his middle-aged years, had just turned 15, making her a year younger than Swayam. Despite her youthful age, her beauty was already captivating. She possessed a profound strength at the early sixth level of the Elementary Profound Realm, though not quite on par with Xia Qingyue. Nonetheless, her spiritual prowess was admirable, and she held a significant position within the Xiao Clan, garnering respect and recognition.<br/><br/>Before Xiao Lingxi could respond to Swayam's concerned inquiry, a gentle voice filled the room as Xiao Lie made his entrance.<br/><br/>"Oh, Che'er, you've finally awakened."<br/><br/>Swayam, recognizing the depth of care and the unique circumstances binding them, readily accepted Xiao Lie as his grandfather. This newfound connection was bolstered by the values instilled by his parents, which emphasized respect and family bonds.<br/><br/>As Xiao Che stood before him, looking hale and hearty, Xiao Lie's expression eased. Behind him, accompanying Xiao Lie, were his trusted housekeeper Xiao Hong and Floating Cloud City's preeminent physician, Dr. Seto.<br/><br/>As Swayam was on the verge of extending his greetings to 'his' elders, he halted upon hearing his grandfather's words.<br/><br/>"It's reassuring to see you awake and well, but for the sake of absolute certainty, allow Dr. Seto to conduct an examination. Today marks your wedding day, and any margin for error must be eliminated. Dr. Seto, please proceed." Xiao Lie motioned for Dr. Seto to take charge while he stepped aside.<br/>***<br/><br/>Swayam, upon hearing his grandfather's request, felt a hint of panic welling up inside him. He knew that his "Astral Self" was actively modifying and healing this body on a microscopic level. However, in his moment of distress, he remembered that he was an extradimensional being equipped with an A.I. Chip, and he promptly issued a command.<br/><br/>"A.I. Chip, conceal all alterations that occurred after I took possession of this body."<br/><br/>[Beep! Task Established! Concealing all molecular alterations and changes within the Host's body.]<br/><br/>Upon receiving this confirmation, Swayam let out a mental sigh of relief, his tense nerves finally easing.<br/>***<br/><br/>Dr. Seto placed his medical kit on the table and positioned himself in front of Swayam, carefully assessing his condition by taking his pulse. After a brief moment, he withdrew his hands from Swayam's wrist.<br/><br/>"Dr. Seto, how is Xiao Che? Is it something serious?" Xiao Lingxi's expression was fraught with worry and anxious anticipation.<br/><br/>While remaining silent, Xiao Lie bore a solemn and intense expression; he couldn't ignore the peculiar circumstances surrounding Xiao Che's sudden collapse.<br/><br/>Dr. Seto's countenance gradually brightened, breaking into a reassuring smile. "Elder Xiao, you needn't fret. Your grandson's physical condition is impeccable. There are no significant ailments, not even a trace of a common cold. It's possible that his fainting spell was a result of overwhelming nerves and excitement, causing a rush of blood to his head. After all, he's marrying the daughter of the Xia Clan, Floating Cloud City's foremost beauty. Ha ha ha."<br/><br/>Despite Dr. Seto's attempt to conceal his disdain, Swayam easily detected it in his words. The prospect of a talented woman joining in matrimony with a seemingly aimless individual without a promising future was undoubtedly a difficult pill for anyone to swallow.<br/><br/>"That's wonderful news." Xiao Lie, sensing the hidden contempt in Dr. Seto's words but choosing not to acknowledge it, sighed with relief. He nodded in agreement and added, "I appreciate your prompt assistance, Dr. Seto. It must have been inconvenient to be summoned so early. Hong, please escort Dr. Seto to the living room, so he can rest."<br/><br/>"It's not necessary," Dr. Seto replied, waving his hand dismissively and gathering his medical supplies. "Since your grandson is in good health, I'll take my leave. Congratulations to you, Elder Xiao, on securing Floating Cloud City's most exceptional granddaughter-in-law. I can only imagine how many envy you right now. Ha ha. Farewell."<br/><br/>Even though Xiao Lie was well aware of Dr. Seto's reservations about his grandson's wedding, he extended a formal invitation out of courtesy.<br/><br/>As Dr. Seto made his way toward the exit, Xiao Lie called him back with a beckoning gesture. "Do remember to join us for the wedding festivities and have a drink with us," he insisted. Turning to his trusted housekeeper, Hong, he added, "Hong, please accompany Dr. Seto outside."<br/><br/>Dr. Seto acknowledged the invitation with a nod and followed Hong out of the room, leaving Xiao Lie and Xiao Lingxi with renewed relief and excitement for the impending wedding.<br/>***<br/><br/>"Che'er, are you absolutely certain you're feeling well? Is there any discomfort at all?" Xiao Lie's worry persisted even after Dr. Seto's departure, and he furrowed his brow in contemplation.<br/><br/>When Xiao Che had collapsed suddenly, it was accompanied by a drop in temperature and a wane in vitality. Such symptoms couldn't be attributed solely to nervousness and excitement.<br/><br/>Despite Xiao Che's current robust appearance, Xiao Lie couldn't dismiss that lingering doubt gnawing at his heart.<br/>***<br/><br/>In response to Xiao Lie's inquiry, directed at Swayam while still adjusting to being called Xiao Che, he reassured his grandfather with a composed tone and a relaxed demeanor.<br/><br/>"I truly feel fine, Grandfather. You can put your worries to rest."<br/><br/>Despite not being the original Xiao Che or Yun Che and having merely inherited their memories, a sudden wave of emotion welled up within Swayam. His gaze rested upon Xiao Lie, whose face bore the marks of concern and a head full of silver hair, stirring a sense of nostalgia and empathy within him.<br/><br/>Within the stored memories of Yun Che held within the A.I. Chip's database, Swayam discovered that the Xiao Clan was comprised of five elders, with Xiao Lie serving as the fifth elder. Despite his position, Xiao Lie stood out as the clan's most formidable member.<br/><br/>Five years prior, he had reached the threshold of the Spirit Profound Realm's tenth level. Presently, he stood at the pinnacle of the Spirit Profound Realm's tenth level, poised on the brink of breaking through to the next realm—a feat coveted by countless individuals.<br/><br/>At the age of fifty-five, Xiao Lie possessed the strength of the tenth level in the Profound Spirit Realm, yet his hair had already turned entirely white. Although Swayam knew Xiao Lie wasn't his biological grandfather, witnessing the sea of white atop his head evoked a poignant emotion within him.<br/>***<br/><br/>The deep impact of Xiao Che's memories on Swayam's psyche or his inherent compassionate nature could both be factors contributing to the poignant emotions he felt upon seeing Xiao Lie's snow-white hair.<br/>***<br/><br/>The reason why Xiao Lie had white hair since his middle-age years was known to all the people living in Floating Cloud City.<br/><br/>His only son, the father of Xiao Che, Xiao Ying was called the number one genius of Floating Cloud City.<br/><br/>At the age of seventeen, he broke into the Nascent Profound Realm. At twenty, he reached the 5th level of the Nascent Profound Realm. At twenty three he broke through the Nascent Profound Realm and entered the True Profound Realm, shocking all people of Floating Cloud City.<br/><br/>He became the Xiao Clan's pride, as well as Xiao Lie's pride and joy.<br/><br/>Almost everybody believed that when Xiao Ying became middle-aged, he would be the best candidate qualified to inherit the leadership of the Xiao Clan.<br/><br/>But unfortunately, the 'Author' had something else planned for the development of this story, and after a bullshit assassination attempt on Xiao Ying's life only a month after Xiao Che was born.<br/><br/>And conveniently a few days before that, Xiao Ying also saved the life of Xia clan's daughter. After this rescue, Xiao Ying only could fend off the assassins with half his usual strength and drew his final breath.<br/><br/>His wife's heart broke in grief for the loss of her love and went to meet him soon after.<br/><br/>Xiao Lie's hair became white overnight due to the heavy blow of losing his son. But that didn't ended just with that. Nine months later, after giving Xiao Lingxi birth. His wife also suffered from the tortured pain of losing her only son and died of depression a month later.<br/><br/>Swayam cannot imagine just how did Xiao Lie lived his life the years after both his son and wife passed away. His pale white hair contained immeasurable grief, hatred and a deep unspeakable sorrow.<br/><br/>And even to this day, Xiao Lie still has not found his son's murderer.<br/><br/>Later on, he put all his hopes and wishes onto Xiao Che… But the brutal truth of him being born with a damaged Profound Vein entered and left his life out of the blue like a bolt of lightning.<br/><br/>However, facing his hopeless grandson, Xiao Lie never showed any signs of disappointment nor fury.<br/><br/>In his point of view, being born with a broken Profound Vein meant that fate had been unfair and that he should not be condemned because of such injustice. He should not be indifferent or ridicule Xiao Che but instead should love him more to compensate for it.<br/><br/>Over the years, he has always been seeking any possible ways to repair a damaged Profound Vein. However, the Profound Vein is the lifeline of one's Profound strength, how can it be easily repaired?<br/><br/>And after seeing Xiao Che's memories, Swayam also knew that, although Xiao Che was ignored by others and was faced by the mocking eyes of others while growing up, he still felt how much lucky he was to have such a grandfather.<br/>...<br/><br/>As Swayam was lost in his thoughts, he suddenly heard his grandfather's voice and focused on it.<br/><br/>"You're alright; that's wonderful to hear." Watching him, Xiao Lie was finally rest assured. Glancing at the brightening sky he spoke:<br/><br/>"Che Er, the hour is nigh. Go make your preparations while I go arrange the wedding team… Oh right, do you want to ride horseback or sit in the carriage?"<br/>...<br/><br/>Although Swayam was not the original protagonist of the 'Against The Gods', and most certainly did not had Yun Che's arrogance. But when it comes to the topic about shamelessness, then not even Yun Che could compare against the individual who is from the 21st century.<br/>...<br/><br/>After thinking about that, Swayam couldn't help but laugh with a slight smile on his face: "I will be riding on the horse! You do not have to worry about me grandfather, Xia Qingyue may be nobility, but she is already fated to be my wife and I will openly wed her in front everyone with dignity and honor to not let you lose face."<br/><br/>After hearing all that, here was a delay in Xiao Lie's expression, for he would never have thought that his grandson would say such a thing. His face then broke into a gentle smile and he slowly nodded: "Good."<br/><br/>With just a single word, all his deep satisfaction came through. Xiao Lie stepped out of the room and gently closed the door.<br/>...<br/><br/>As soon as Xiao Lie left, Xiao Lingxi stood in front of Swayam and curled her lips. Her face was warped in unhappiness as she spoke:<br/>"So you are actually excited for this marriage and made me worry for you in vain. You obviously have not met Xia Qingyue that many times but you are already fond of her… Oh right, she is our Floating Cloud City's number one beauty, huh!"<br/><br/>Seeing the pouting and jealousy filled face of Xiao Lingxi, Swayam placed his hand on her head and started stroking it gently as he replied to her in a calm yet firm voice:<br/>"How's that possible! Xia Qingyue is quite beautiful but I think my little xi is even more prettier than her. If I really fainted because of her, then I would not know how many times I would have fainted in this lifetime because little xi always accompanies me everyday.<br/><br/>Swayam was getting more attracted to Xiao Lingxi the more he talked and spent his time with her.<br/><br/>"Hehe… " Xiao Lingxi's face immediately blushed and broke into a sweet smile with a giggle:<br/>"You know just the thing to say to make me happy. It is fine if you fainted in a rush to marry her because I know Xia Qingyue is beautiful as she is also talented and the Xia clan is also the wealthiest clan in Floating Cloud City, so there is quite a lot of people who dream of marrying her. However, she eventually is about to marry my family's Xiao Che."<br/><br/>Although she said all that, but her heart was feeling pained and sour inside. Yet to not show her true feelings, she wore a proud look on her face. Then her eyes became wistful as her voice gentled: "I feel like this day came so quickly… my Xiao Che is already about to be married…."<br/><br/>Just as Swayam was about to comfort her they heard the door being knocked from outside.<br/><br/>"Pound-pound," after the knock followed the voice of old housekeeper Xiao Hong Cang: "Young master, it is almost time to go and meet your bride."<br/><br/>After hearing the housekeeper Hong Cang's voice, Xiao Lingxi hastily removed Swayam's hand from her head and replied to Old housekeeper.<br/><br/>"Ah…. already?" After calming her emotions a little bit she glanced at Swayam's clothes and suddenly looked anxious: "Uncle Hong, wait a little while longer and we will come out right away."<br/><br/>She walked in front of Swayam and a pair of soft hands began to quickly tidy his wedding clothes: "This outfit is quite hard to put on. Your clothes are in a mess because of the events earlier. Stand still, I'll will finish this right away."<br/><br/>A pair of snow white delicate hands began to work hurriedly. She flipped his collar back to the proper face and re-fastened his loose belt… her actions were jerky but she took it seriously and paid careful attention to what she did.<br/>...<br/><br/>Swayam silently looked at her with a loving gaze because in Xiao Che's memories, during their earliest childhood, Xiao Lingxi stuck to Xiao Che like a piece of candy. She followed him wherever he went. It was hard for him to shake her off. If she did not see him for a while, she would cry loudly.<br/><br/>However when Xiao Che reached ten years of age and it was confirmed that his Profound Vein was damaged, Lingxi seemed to grow up overnight. She knew the consequences of having a broken Profound Vein and then understood the concept of her identity as his "little aunt". This started her regime of training in the ways of the Profound to protect the life of the weaker Xiao Che.<br/><br/>Although all that love and care was for the original Xiao Che, but after seeing the memories of Yun Che, Swayam started to develop some feelings for Xiao Lingxi which can easily be seen from their interaction.<br/><br/>And even though he was going to marry Xia Qingyue, but since he knew the plot of the 'Against The Gods' world, the girl he wanted to marry the most was Xiao Lingxi who was actually a very sweet and caring girl.<br/>...<br/><br/>After completing the complex motions of dressing Swayam, Xiao Lingxi let out a sigh of relief. Tippy toeing, she lifted her hand and tousled his hair. With an expression of tender affection clearly printed on her face, her pink lips slightly parted like petals of a flower.<br/><br/>With a supernatural speed, Swayam instinctively tilted his head and pressed his mouth against Xiao Lingxi's lusciously pink lips….<br/>.<br/>.<br/>.<br/>To be continued ~<br/><br/>[A.N. - Hope you all enjoyed this chapter and will continue to do so even in the future.<br/><br/>Please consider donating some Power Stones to motivate me write more of this story.<br/><br/>Also if you spot any mistakes please do let me know so that I can fix them.<br/><br/>Meet you all with the next chapter but until then, Peace~]</p>