Many times in this world, seemingly warm human relationships were nothing more than self-righteousness—one person's wishful thinking.
In the other person's eyes, they might merely have been somewhat familiar strangers. Nothing more.
That was the cold reality.
Zhu Muchen could not help recalling how, after winning the Sword Discussion Assembly, his dazzling Senior Martial Brother had sat high above at Void Gate's celebration banquet, while the junior martial brothers took turns toasting him.
As for himself, whose contribution had been negligible, he had only been placed at the very end.
By the time it had been his turn to offer a toast, Senior Martial Brother had already drunk himself muddled. Through his bleary eyes, he had probably not even seen clearly who Zhu Muchen was or what he looked like.
It had merely been Zhu Muchen's own self-righteous assumption that Senior Martial Brother should know him...
But reality had not been like that at all...
It had never been as he imagined...
The more Zhu Muchen thought about it, the dimmer his gaze became and the more pain filled his heart. Bit by bit, his eyes turned cold and distant.
Seeing this, the Black-Robed Elder nodded faintly and consoled him, "Hearts grow distant, and the world is unpredictable. Young Master need not dwell on these people and matters from the past. Simply take them lightly."
Zhu Muchen nodded.
The Black-Robed Elder said, "It is getting late, Young Master. Rest early. Tomorrow, we still need to visit several seniors."
Zhu Muchen wore a silent expression, clearly immersed in his own emotions, and said nothing.
The Black-Robed Elder cupped his hands and took his leave.
After leaving the study, the Black-Robed Elder walked along the pavilion halls and through the courtyard chambers until he arrived at an inner hall.
The inner hall