Thread by @fallenwithstyle

On Xiao Xingchen's 17th birthday, Song Lan tells him the truth. He hadn't even meant to meet him until now, but Xiao Xingchen, just like in his past life, has a heroic streak and the accompanying lack of self-preservation. Song Lan first saved his life when he was only 12.

An awkward introduction for a fierce corpse in a modern era that has relegated creatures like him to fiction, especially when he can't offer any words to explain himself. Eventually, though, Xiao Xingchen accepted him--not as protector, but as a teacher and friend.

He calls Song Lan “master,” now--a title Song Lan cannot feel he deserves, but will do all he can to embody. Cultivators are rare in this age, and Xiao Xingchen will be one of the best, wielding Shuanghua with a light that should bring tears to Song Lan's eyes.

(The boy has never noticed how much those eyes look like his own.)

Now Xiao Xingchen holds Shuanghua out before him, shaking. “I killed you. In my past life, I killed you. With this sword.” Shuanghua clatters to the ground. “I don't want it anymore,” says Xiao Xingchen, and he turns and runs away.

This time, Song Lan doesn't wait to run after him. As he faces Xiao Xingchen once again, he knows the boy can see there's no blame in his eyes--most people would call him expressionless, but they've known each other for five years now.

(That's already years longer than he spent with the first Xiao Xingchen. Song Lan doesn't know how to feel about that.)

With pen and paper Song Lan writes, “I'm sorry. It wasn't your fault.” The words he's carried for centuries hold a different meaning now, because he'll never be able to say them to the one they were meant for. This boy, this miraculous reincarnation, is a new person.

One who remembers nothing of their past--but who Song Lan cares for just as much. Xiao Xingchen rips out the paper and holds it tight. “I'll find a new sword,” he says. That's not a simple matter in this era. A sword worthy of Shuanghua's successor might take decades to obtain.

But as much as it aches, Song Lan knows it's the right choice. Shuanghua isn't this Xiao Xingchen's burden to bear.

And maybe it doesn't have to be Song Lan's anymore, either.

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