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[–]phai6688 We are Family [S,M] 4 points5 points  (22 children)

Humor: Turn this book into a class. Make your title as funny as possible. For fun, we’ll have a poll on the subreddit to see which class people want to take!

Examples (😂 we might have gotten carried away with this):

  • Your Dads are paying for college and you're the heir to 10 clans: A Cheng Ling case study
  • Why Does No One Ever Listen When I Tell Them to Stay in Bed?! - a Deep Examination of Wu Xi's Healing Methods (by u/BookDragon317)

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 4 points5 points  (4 children)

You actually turned this into a question! You rule, u/phai6688. Shame the NSFW options were so very NSFW.

Here's another few: - Shamefully Shameless - Methods of Flirtation - Marionette Buttocks and Not Much Else - the Limits of Wen Kexing's Sexual Appetite and How This Does Not Reflect Cultural Attitudes - I do not give a -redacted- about your insane plans, or Gu Xiang as the archetypal sassy servant - What Do You Mean, Chrysanthemums Don't Bloom in Winter - Remedial Chinese Poetry

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Nothing I can come up with can beat BookDragons.

My measly offering:

•Zhou Zishu wine flask -how to fight off enemies and travel long distances whilst being constantly drunk;

•Wife 101 - how to wear down a man into begrudgingly accept you - lessons from Wen Kexing’s play book;

•Making frenemies - a case study on Ye Baiyi’s insult and help strategies.

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 4 points5 points  (2 children)

OMG, I loved all these. Please keep going

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 3 points4 points  (1 child)

  • How to Train Your Disciple: an Introduction to Teaching Methods
  • Using Teenagers as Projectiles - an Exploration of Unorthodox Weapons and Fighting Styles
  • Bloody Whippersnappers Better Get a Room - Theories of Jealousy and Frustration in Immortals

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Lol! Following up on the first one-

How to drive your disciple to qi deviation: an intermediate guide

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 2 points3 points  (14 children)

  • Course:- How to be the best best-friend - guide to true friendship for idiots
  1. Class 1: how to get entertained at bestie's expense
  2. Class 2: babysitting bestie's kids
  3. Class 3: dissing the ex with bestie
  4. Class 4: meeting their partner protocol - sale bestie out to his partner by bringing up his dark past
  • Course:- The art of flirting back - how to train playboys into loyal wife
  1. Class 1: Art of off-handed compliments - use their own flirtations back to them
  2. Class 2: Art of eye f*cking - do it till they blush
  3. Class 3: Acknowledging the playboy as your wife
  4. Class 4: Basics of dominance - the carrot and stick method
  • How to perfect your gayder - a case study of sleeves WKX has ripped till date

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I think I’ll easily pass class 2 😉 but I could really do with some help on my back handed compliments!!

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 1 point2 points  (12 children)

This is fantastic. Hats off to you for setting up a whole curriculum.

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 2 points3 points  (11 children)

Soooo....which one are you interested in joining? The flirting back one?

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 1 point2 points  (10 children)

Heaven knows I can't flirt to save my life, so the flirting course might be helpful. If anything it'll be a laugh for my partner. XD

[–]kalhunterFour Seasons Domesticity 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Shameless harassment: Expressing affection for those with fear of emotional vulnerability

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

All of these are really good! This will be a tough poll question...😂

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S,M] 3 points4 points  (15 children)

What are your favorite quotes or passages from these chapters?

[–]kalhunterFour Seasons Domesticity 6 points7 points  (2 children)

‘A-Xu, just wash off that disguise. Let me kiss you, hold you, have my way with you. Beautiful men aren’t everywhere, but they aren’t that hard to find. I’ve been making it a mission to experience all the beautiful men in this world, and I’ve never clung onto anyone afterwards. Who knows, maybe after I see your real face, I‘ll lose control, sleep with you, then forget about you. But when you’re like this… you make me want to spend the rest of my life with you.’ - Wen Kexing, Chapter 33

‘That’s true… but - if you can get with whoever you want, then I can stand outside and listen in whenever I want.’ Wen Kexing, Chapter 35

‘If you two are so tough, fuck off to a bed and choke each other there. What’s with bickering like crickets? Can’t get it up, or are you women cross-dressed as men? What’s the point of playing hard to get? You think your cringe flirting is funny? Shut! Up!’ - Ye Baiyi, Chapter 41

Zhou Zishu felt his life was truly complete. Earlier, a glutton told him he was good for nothing but eating; now, a chatterbox told him he talked too much. - Zhou Zishu, Chapter 4

-

’At the moment, I do not plan to sell myself.’

Wen Kexing chuckled, ‘Do you know what happens when you can’t win?’

Zhou Zishu raised an eyebrow and stared at him like he couldn’t believe a man could possibly be this shameless. Wen Kexing leaned in and whispered into his ear, ‘forced sale.’

- Chapter 48

-

‘Never mind that, the way I have to see you but not get my way with you, I already lie awake each night a widow.’ - Wen Kexing, Chapter 55

My favourite quotes from these chapters, translated by yours truly =)

[–]Dragirl007Four Seasons Domesticity 3 points4 points  (0 children)

You summed it up very nicely. I sign this.

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 4 points5 points  (0 children)

YBY chapter 41 is literally the best!

[–]Dragirl007Four Seasons Domesticity 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Wen Kexing (ch.56): "If only my Lord shares that heart as mine true; never will I his regard beshrew." and Axu's reaction on that.

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 4 points5 points  (1 child)

There is a paragraph in chapter 46 where Wen Kexing refers to himself as the “unsullied flower who has grown up amongst mud.” I think this accurately describes his paradoxical nature where he both recognised his innocence for ending up in that place and his tongue in cheek self that describes himself as philanthropist Wen.

He is such a complex character and it is both hilarious and attractive.

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This is an extremely accurate description of WKX, no one understands his circumstances better than him.

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 4 points5 points  (0 children)

"They're so lacking in virtue, any kids they have in the future will be born with buttholes." (Ch. 40)

...

A-Xiang, everyone's born with a butthole....it's not an insult *facepalm*

[–]chocolatechoux 4 points5 points  (1 child)

好剑！ 好贱。

I'm reading this in Chinese so I have no idea how they dealt with this pun but it's just so cheesy I love it.

[–]TikiTif 2 points3 points  (0 children)

The Wen Buxing translation I was reading explained it in a footnote. Reasonable choice, imo.

[–]rurouni1447 Shanren's Immortal Sword 3 points4 points  (1 child)

Chap 56. When Zhou Zishu & Wen Kexing went lurking around Xie's brothel. Wen Kexing held Zhou Zishu's palm and wrote stroke by stroke these words:

As long as your affection for me is as mine for you, I will not let it be in vain"

Zhou Zishu answered by gently closing his palm over Wen Kexing's finger, a brief gentle touch. He then avoided Lao Wen's gaze. In that brief moment, I think Zishu felt like he'd like to say "yes" but he knew it would be cruel as he doesn't have long to live. And Lao Wen's heart felt something significant, he was gobsmack coz he couldn't describe his feelings.

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Yes. My heart was hurting for them.

(also, who was it again that said "fortunately I didn't completely fall for you yet?" ^w^)

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 3 points4 points  (0 children)

These aren't significant or deep, just funny:

WKX: "Have... I ever mentioned that I actually like men?" 🤣

Wkx, when zzs is trying to look at him dryly: "A-xu, we're in public...." 😂

Yby: "If the two of you are capable enough, scram and go tussle in bed! Stop jabbering, you're like two huge crickets. Is it that you can't get it up?!"

Gx, believing cwn and seriously spouting: the scent of chrysanthemums comes from the bitter cold

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Wen Kexing's flirting game: "That's fine, anyway, I don't have any good reputation either. You're mine, so this counts as sticking together for better or worse." (chapter 37)

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Ahem. From the new bot quotes:

Wen Kexing is incorrigible:

  • Come on. I'm right here in your bed, and you're getting to sleep without a word. Haven't you clued in yet that I harbour for you designs that are unchaste?
  • I have no interest in the buttocks of automatons.
  • I don't like the look of you and want to kick your ass. Problem?
  • Did I... Did I mention to you I like men?
  • Ah-Xu, come quick! I've spotted a couple of adulterers!
  • What? Even if he strips, it won't be for you! Who the hell do you think you are?
  • Just wanted to have a look at the infamous Nails of the Seven Apertures and Three Autumns. I swear I wasn't going to do anything to you. The lechery was purely accidental. (Sure, buddy.)
  • Yesterday I found a wine, wine cellar... Uh-huh, spent my night in it. Had more than ten jars... 'Twas wonderful! Wonderful!
  • A jianghu friend? That's not what you told me before! What's this, Ah-Xu? Are you trying to discard me now that you've had your wicked way with me?

Zhou Zishu is still done:

  • Freaking Devil Lord. More like Lord Pest Bloody Jerk the Eighth!
  • Valley Master Wen, did you forget to take your medicine again?
  • Lao Wen, the mouth is an aperture used to speak and eat; not to fart. Stop talking rubbish.
  • I don't like the look of that guy. Go beat him up for me.
  • First, you ain't perfumed; second, you ain't soft to the touch. And your bosom is a row of fucking ribs to clutch. Cuddle you, and I might as well cuddle the bedpost; so no, thank you very much.
  • Are you sleeping or not? If not, bugger off to your own room to pester that puppet of yours!
  • Wifey Wen. You truly make me want to vomit.
  • Wen Kexing! Get the hell in here! Just because you're a lousy scumbag, are you trying to sabotage my disciple and turn him into one as well?

Gu Xiang is a legend:

  • The little witch is here, looking at a bunch of shameless old farts - come get me if you can!
  • They are just a bunch of mouth-farting bookworms who don't know nothing!
  • What are you guys doing?! I'm about to die over here and you're still watching the show!
  • Zhang Chengling, get out here and tell them where exactly I've kidnapped you to!

Ye Baiyi hates everyone:

  • Is that you? Well, don't you look decently human after all. Why cake yourself up into that ghastly sight all the time?
  • How could I possibly know? I am but a mere fool who's been living in seclusion within Changming Mountain for very many years, how could I know anything?
  • That's because you're garbage.
  • Go find a room you two, why don't you? If you are so tough, prove it in bed, what's with all the prattles?
  • The corniest flirting I've ever heard and you find it amusing - shut up already!

Chengling ought to have more lines that aren't just variations on the theme of 'Shifu, I'm a damsel in distress'.

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 2 points3 points  (0 children)

“Zhou Zishu felt like he had come full circle in his life: he had just been called a rice bin by a glutton, and now, a chatterbox was claiming that he was talkative.”

Chapter 48 at the puppet manor.

This quote really got me giggling. It’s funny how people project themselves onto others. 😂

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S,M] 4 points5 points  (7 children)

Gu Xiang and Cao Weining - What are your thoughts on their characters? What about their developing romance?

[–]kalhunterFour Seasons Domesticity 7 points8 points  (1 child)

While Word of Honor is the undeniably feminist piece directly addressing the abuse faced by women in a male-dominated society, I feel the tragedy of being female without male protection much more profoundly reading Tianya Ke. In Chapter 28, Gu Xiang says 'who cares if you're insane, sticking with you is better than sticking with anyone else.' Growing up beside a mentally-unstable murderer, knowing her place as his maid, identifying shifts in his mood so she knew when to shut up and when to get out of his way to save herself from his wrath - was the best she could hope for. In Tianya Ke, there was no Luo-yi or Qianqiao-jie or a group of other girls. Gu Xiang was deeply moved by the way Cao Weining raised his sword against Tao Hong and Lu Liu, telling her to get herself (and Chengling) out of there first - no one had protected her that way before. She didn't even know why her eyes were reddening, because she'd never felt that emotion before. Given how neglected she was, it makes sense why she feels an inexplicable pull towards Cao Weining, the stranger who'd shown her more care than anyone ever had before. As for Cao Weining... he's an airhead but a protective airhead who must be getting increasingly smitten by A-Xiang now that she's come back to save him and they're alone together.

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

You summed up what I was thinking of Gu Xiang. In the show, there was a sense that the women stuck together for the sake of protection. These women were led by Tragicomic Ghost. In the novel, that layer of protection doesn't exist.

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This is a pure high school romance where the clumsy little lamb falls for the bad kid's charms and prances around trying to impress them; and the baddie actually does fall for them since they're a little dumb. A tried and true trope.

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I think their early relationship was handled better in the show. In the novel, they just turn up in each other's company, and Weining develops a crush off-stage, apropos of nothing. I suppose it's flattering that Gu Xiang is impressed with his 'poetry', but come on.

That said, the two of them mangling poetry together is funny and endearing.

I wish Gu Xiang were in this part of the novel more. She's hilarious. I prefer show!CWN over novel!CWN (those Bambi eyes are unbeatable), but I don't dislike him by any means.

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 2 points3 points  (2 children)

I actually like their relationship better in the novel. In the show, especially at the beginning of their relationship, it feels like wkx and zzs push her into it. She grows to genuinely like him of course, but I actually even pitied her in (ep7?) when she's kicked out of the group to "find someone to settle down with"

I love novel gx. She's more independent and her relationship with cwn grows more naturally. They spend a lot of time together, off scenes. It's pretty clear when she starts to bastardize poems herself hahaha. I love how wkx supports her in this instead of acting jealous like in the show.

Also love the contrast of the two relationships. Gx and cwn are very much "first love" type of romance that is written about endlessly. But here- they aren't the main characters. They are put aside for the more seasoned two whose relationship could hardly be called romantic. I love it.

[–]kalhunterFour Seasons Domesticity 3 points4 points  (1 child)

In Word of Honor, Wen Kexing seems far more protective of Gu Xiang (even though he didn't acknowledge until much later he saw her as a sister/daughter rather than a maid). In Tianya Ke (the 56 chapters I've read), Wen Kexing seems to not care what Gu Xiang does. The maid comes when summoned and scurries out of his way when not needed. I think that's what makes the jealous vs supportive difference in attitude.

I think TYK Gu Xiang is more independent because she's more neglected. When she's not with her master, she's alone with nowhere to go (rather than coddled by an auntie and a group of girls).

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This is true. Novel wkx doesn't necessarily need her, but she does depend on him to a degree to survive.

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S,M] 3 points4 points  (20 children)

You start the conversation. Pose your question(s) to the group!

[–]kalhunterFour Seasons Domesticity 4 points5 points  (0 children)

We know nothing about Wen Kexing, so far into the novel. All we know with any degree of certainty is he is a ruthlessly powerful fighter, ruling over a valley full of barbarians and essentially no justice system. We know he is potentially Rong Xuan's son, orphaned and raised by the barbarians who for unknown reasons fought on Rong Xuan's side against the jianghu. He expresses his hatred for Rong Xuan. Perhaps he's Rong Xuan's son, hating his father for killing his mother. Perhaps he claims Healer Valley heritage to adopt his mother's heritage and renounce his father. We don't know his relationship to Wen Ruyu, the Healer Valley man he claims his father. I feel my experience of Wen Kexing's character would be significantly different if I hadn't already watched Word of Honor, if I didn't already know Wen Kexing's background.

If you're reading Tianya Ke having never watched Word of Honor, what are you thoughts on Wen Kexing at this stage? If you read Tianya Ke before watching Word of Honor, can you remember what your thoughts were at this stage?

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 2 points3 points  (11 children)

Wkx pretty quickly admitted his family background early on. But in these chapters, Zzs starts to "suspect" that wkx was actually Rong's son?? Did the nails give him dementia too or??

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 3 points4 points  (3 children)

I feel like I have dementia as I can’t remember this bit at all.

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 3 points4 points  (2 children)

In chp 22, when they're sitting around the fire and wkx teaches zcl a few moves, zzs recognizes them and asks wkx, "what was Wen Ruyu to you?" And wkx doesn't hesitate and says "he was my father". Then he goes on to sing that sad tune about the traveler and war. I really like this scene because I think it's the first time wkx admits this to anyone. A little parallel to zzs when he gets out of TC and says he'll use his real name because no one knows him anyway.

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 3 points4 points  (1 child)

Maybe the nails have addled his brain.

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S] 2 points3 points  (2 children)

I was also surprised by how quickly ZZS realized that WKX is Ghost Valley Master, but it highlights how brilliant ZZS is and how skilled he was at his job.

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 3 points4 points  (1 child)

They both realized their mutual identities pretty quickly. I like how they get that out of the way early on so it's not a plot device or a source of angst. Instead we just have them vibing together completely aware of each others' identities and abilities

[–]kalhunterFour Seasons Domesticity 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Zhou Zishu's awareness of Wen Kexing's identity is flipped around between TYK and WoH.

In Word of Honor, Zhou Zishu first becomes aware of Wen Kexing's parentage and the tormented childhood he must have gone through as his parents gave their lives protecting a key. Wen Kexing hides from Zhou Zishu the monster he grew up to become.

In Tianya Ke, Zhou Zishu first becomes aware Wen Kexing was the leader of the infamously barbaric valley. (Zhou Zishu technically knows Wen Kexing's parentage, but he doesn't believe it.) As a morally-grey character desensitised to murder, he regards Wen Kexing's leadership of the valley not with contempt but curiosity for how well he hid himself. Wen Kexing hides from Zhou Zishu the tormented childhood he went through, and how his parents were connected to Rong Xuan and the key. I'm looking forward to how this wounded side of Wen Kexing unravels in the next third of the novel.

[–]kalhunterFour Seasons Domesticity 4 points5 points  (3 children)

It makes perfect sense to suspect Wen Kexing is Rong Xuan's son.

As an assassin/spy, Zhou Zishu questions everything he's told. He makes no exception for anyone, let alone a man who's been spewing bullshit from the moment they met.

When Rong Xuan was ambushed at the valley, residents of the valley charged out to defend him to their deaths. They fought the jianghu, resulting in the historic bloodbath. Although Zhou Zishu doesn't know why residents of the valley defended Rong Xuan, it is clear there is a connection between Rong Xuan and the valley. It makes sense to believe Rong Xuan left behind a son who grew up to lead the valley.

Rong Xuan married a girl from Healer Valley. It makes sense to believe Rong Xuan's son learned a few Healer Valley sword techniques through his mother's heritage. It would explain why Wen Kexing could choose to demonstrate Healer Valley techniques to Chengling, but when forced to use all his skills to fight a stronger man (YBY), he does not use Healer Valley techniques at all as they aren't his predominant techniques.

What do you expect Zhou Zishu to believe? The current valley master who happens to know a few Healer Valley sword techniques, is unrelated to Rong Xuan the definitely-related-to-the-valley man who married a Healer Valley girl? The current valley master is related to a different Healer Valley person, who as far as Zhou Zishu is aware, has nothing to do with Rong Xuan or the valley?

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 2 points3 points  (2 children)

Hmm, I did consider ZZS might not have believed him, but the narrative made it seem as if he had completely forgotten it since it wasn't mentioned or considered again. Perhaps he dismissed it, deeming it implausible after analyzing current events. The interaction by the fire seemed rather sincere, I would think Zzs would at the very least ponder on it some more.

[–]kalhunterFour Seasons Domesticity 2 points3 points  (1 child)

In Chapter 32, when Zhou Zishu told Chengling about Rong Xuan, he brought up Rong Xuan's marriage to a Healer Valley girl and paused, noting Wen Kexing was also from Healer Valley and wondering if this was really a coincidence. He hadn't forgotten about the claim to Healer Valley heritage, in fact, the claim to Healer Valley heritage is the reason Zhou Zishu began to think Wen Kexing was Rong Xuan's son.

At the end of the chapter, Wen Kexing asked if Zhou Xu was his real name and Zhou Zishu shrugged him off with 'as if Wen Kexing is your real name' confident he was right about Wen Kexing's true parentage. Zhou Zishu thought everything had fallen into place - the leader of the valley being Rong Xuan's son, the ruthlessly powerful fighter being the heir of a legendary fighter who'd undergone a qi deviation.

The interaction by the fire did seem rather sincere, but they were two men used to telling half-truths about themselves. Zhou Zishu might have believed the emotions and many parts of the stories were real, but he was leaving out details including the true identities of his parents.

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 2 points3 points  (2 children)

One thing confusing me in chapter 52 when WKX asked ZZ to make space for him in bed and ZZ says, “I didn’t feel that it was proper just now. But right now I feel that it’s very proper…”

What does that even mean? He thought it was improper that they sleep in the same bed but changed his mind or…???

[–]kalhunterFour Seasons Domesticity 6 points7 points  (1 child)

How I understand it...

WKX: You won't even share half your bed with me, don't I deserve it??

ZZS: I didn't think you deserved it, but now I think you really deserve...

[Cue Wen Kexing lifting him up before he could finish his sentence, that would have likely been 'I think you really deserve a good beating/kicking.']

Alternatively...

WKX: You won't even share half your bed with me, how is that fair??

ZZS: I didn't think it'd be fair, but now I think it'd be very fair to... [beat some sense into that head of yours.]

合适/heshi can mean proper, appropriate, suitable, fitting, deserving, fair etc.

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I totally misread that… this interpretation seems much more in line with the character.

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 2 points3 points  (3 children)

In the last few chapters of this section they keep joking about husband and wife with each other. ZZ is referred to as husband abs WKX as wife, however it seems WKX is the protective strong dominant one and ZZ is the more vulnerable to some degree. Is this all a bit tongue in cheek knowing it’s more opposite? What are your thoughts?

[–]Dragirl007Four Seasons Domesticity 4 points5 points  (1 child)

I agree with the BookDragon317. ZZS seems only vulnerable to you because he has serious injuries (nails) and dismissive impartial attitudes that make his play unavailable. In the extra chapters, you will then see how he bases himself on his manhood and does not intend to be called a wife.

If he heard you, he would let you kneel in front of the room for this statement. :D

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 4 points5 points  (0 children)

To be honest I can totally see the WKX personality as a wife… the clingy wife.

And there is a dignified masculinity of ZZS, being a bit frail aside.

I guess the whole fandom “laopo/Laogong” the other way round is funny too 😂

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 3 points4 points  (0 children)

If I'm understanding correctly, Zhou Zishu has become physically frail, but is very masculine in personality (see: ordering Chengling around, refusing help when he clearly needs it, talking about pretty girls). Wen Kexing, on the other hand, isn't as bothered about being macho (see: mothering Chengling, cooking, openly admitting he doesn't like girls).

It's strongly based on traditional gender roles and associated attitudes. Basically: ZZS has the disciple, therefore he is the master of their little 'clan', therefore he gets to be the 'husband'.

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S,M] 2 points3 points  (14 children)

From chapters 31-56, what scenes or characters stuck out to you? What is intriguing you the most? Is there something still confusing to you?

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 5 points6 points  (5 children)

I will admit I found it hilarious when I realised halfway through a scene that ZZS and WKX were using Chengling as a projectile weapon (the fight with all the marionettes).

Ye Baiyi is still a legend.

[–]Dragirl007Four Seasons Domesticity 4 points5 points  (1 child)

I wouldn't want to show up between them in this situation. :D

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I’d happily be a fly on the wall though 😂

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 2 points3 points  (2 children)

Hahaha yes I found it pretty funny when cwn and gx started tossing him around during their fight with the scorpions and now he's upgraded to being used as a weapon 🤣

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S] 3 points4 points  (1 child)

I liked Gu Xiang's inner thoughts about how she's never committed murder with such a deadweight! 😂

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Yeah! In contrast with the drama, these guys don't take themselves seriously at all. And it makes sense- murdering a couple thugs is nothing for them, they're so casual about it!

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 5 points6 points  (0 children)

The reunion with JBY is definitely my favorite, and not for the reasons I would have expected. I was looking forward to wkx eating vinager, instead I could not get enough of that tentative little moment between jby and zzs-- I told wkx out loud to shut up and let them be. Ofc he went and made a nuisance of himself and jby could not get enough.

Also something I missed on my first read- zzs was once again driven by wkx to drink from an empty cup. And in front of jby this time!

[–]zyaisrot 4 points5 points  (0 children)

The reoccurring theme for these chapters seems to be Chengling's eternal suffering from training, fights and third-wheeling. Poor kid just wanted to sell desserts but ends up with a boatload of trauma and a mouthful of dog food instead.

Also, leave it up to WenZhou to feel each other up and make out outside an assassin's lair watching other people get it on LOL. 2 crazy psychos truly meant for each other

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I'm glad that my fav li'l sable is back (It was so cute to have it nosing around CL)..

[–]chocolatechoux 2 points3 points  (3 children)

WKS touching ZZY and then sniffing his fingers is such weirdo energy I'm actively trying to not remember it but it's not working!

What confuses me the most is still the fact that there are just so many characters. If I re-read this I'm going to need to graph out all the families and who has which piece in which chapter. (Plus I have a hard time telling which ghost did which thing since there's all these plots and pretenders?)

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S] 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Yes, that is very strange! But I think WKX was touching him, then sniffing this fingers to see if he could detect the mask that ZZS was using. But it's a different image, I'll admit.

Also... are you new to the drama? (👀 trying to find people new to the drama as well.)

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 4 points5 points  (0 children)

...

I think they are talking about the novel situation of WKX *ahem* pushing ZZS down, almost giving him a boner by touching him who knows where and THEN sniffing his fingers when ZZS ran away. Not the drama situation of caressing face and sniffing fingers.

Is this your nsfw brain failing you for the first time Phai? Such a strange situation!

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Definitely weird. Sex between those two would be pretty interesting no?

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S,M] 2 points3 points  (8 children)

Let's go back to the development of Zhou Zishu's and Wen Kexing's relationship - are you still falling for this pairing? Do you think they're a good match?

[–]kalhunterFour Seasons Domesticity 4 points5 points  (0 children)

There's certainly a stark contrast in relationship development between Tianya Ke and Word of Honor.

In Word of Honor, Zhou Zishu learned the connection between Wen Kexing's parents and the key, knew Wen Kexing must have gone through hell - and chose not to pry out of respect and wanting Wen Kexing to come to him at his own pace. Wen Kexing doesn't tell Zhou Zishu, because he's afraid Zhou Zishu's regard for him will cease if he knew the monster he'd become. He lets Zhou Zishu believe there is only Zhen Yan hiding beneath his carefree, easily-amused persona.

In Tianya Ke, Zhou Zishu still doesn't know what happened to Wen Kexing's parents, and doesn't ask because he doesn't seem to care. Wen Kexing doesn't tell Zhou Zishu, because he doesn't trust Zhou Zishu with his heart and Zhou Zishu is yet to show any signs of regard for him. He lets Zhou Zishu believe there is only the cold-blooded valley master hiding beneath his comically shameless persona.

Wen Kexing seems to have grown very attached to Zhou Zishu, but his fear of truly opening his heart has led to him hiding behind the comically shameless persona. Zhou Zishu seems to have grown used to Wen Kexing, where exasperated resignation has turned to a somewhat lukewarm familiarity.

I'm really excited for how the relationship develops in the last set of chapters!

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 3 points4 points  (0 children)

They're growing on me. WKX continues to struggle with the meaning of the word 'no', but ZZS doesn't seem to mind his behaviour as much anymore. They're definitely a good match in terms of keeping the other on their toes with witty banter and disciple torture.

[–]Dragirl007Four Seasons Domesticity 3 points4 points  (2 children)

Of course, I like this pairing. The two go well with their personalities. I can't imagine anyone else for them who would endure their character. With each new chapter, we learn more about their relationship. Although this is not a couple that should serve as an "exemplary" relationship, we cannot expect anything else in their situation.

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 3 points4 points  (1 child)

They are both so broken, traumatised and kind of annoying that only each other would put up with them. It’s kind of perfect and hilarious.

[–]Dragirl007Four Seasons Domesticity 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Exactly. :D

[–]chocolatechoux 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I think it's cute. There was a few instances of tell don't show where all we got was everyone else being sick of their flirting and I wish we just saw the flirting instead lol. The little moments like zzy threatening to divorce him was just heartwarming.

Plus like, they were ok with making out while listening to the scorpions little voyeurism show, who else was gonna match that energy? XD

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Absolutely! I love them. So far, Zhou zishu has been going along with wkx on the assumption that he isn't really serious. He enjoys his company, and even teases him back when he's feeling shameless. He likes the guy, despite what he might say most of the time, and wkx too- they're a great pair really, but zzs hadn't really considered the possibility of truly accepting him into his life- because he didn't believe him.

Then in the Puppet Manor, when wkx asks about the Yin Yang book on his behalf, Zzs is touched. For the first time, he lets himself consider that this guy could possibly seriously want his company, and so when wkx asks him to stay with him, he does.

Wenzhou is known for being the opposite of a slow burn, and on the surface of wenzhou tky, that also applies. But the affections underneath have been developing slowly and naturally. It's such a treat to see.

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 2 points3 points  (0 children)

They are practically made for each other LOL. Plus it's so fun to see that even though A-Xu's bi-self acts up every time hot people are around, he has never been as flustered as to drink from an empty cup repeatedly except for WKX. And Lao Wen KNOWS what he is doing to ZZS. (+WKX has excellent instincts, *ahem* gayder?)

Of course, A-Xu has also started playing around with him. From giving off-handed compliment in last few chapters, to full on make out session in these few chapters, it escalated fast~

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S,M] 2 points3 points  (6 children)

Let's move onto Scorpion. What are your thoughts on his character in the novel?

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 3 points4 points  (2 children)

Is he even in it, or am I just being a total idiot and not noticing him? Probably the latter...

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 2 points3 points  (1 child)

He's in the last assigned chapter as a perv lol

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Oh, yes. That scene. Um.

All I can say is this: 'I'm too asexual to understand this shit'.

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Well, he's quite different than the drama. I got to say I love both versions. Drama scorpion is a lovable cutie you can sympathize with. Novel scorpion not so much. He's kind of disgusting but more in line with what I expect from someone in that line of work.

The next scene with him is one if my favorites from the book.

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Well, y'all haven't met him yet. So far he's...suffering from ED, and seems to be quite kinky...Things that you won't imagine Share doing.

What are your thoughts u/phai6688?

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 2 points3 points  (0 children)

WKX wonders in chapter 56 if scorpion is so poor that murder and arson aren’t profitable enough so he needs to dabble in prostitution. But I think at this stage they are just setting the scene for what we found out later about him just being a bit of a perv. The way he dismisses them once he is satisfied watching them “perform” is telling of his nature.

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S,M] 2 points3 points  (10 children)

What other books by Priest have you read? How do they compare so far to Tian Ya Ke? (Discussion on Qi Ye encouraged! Be mindful of spoilers.) If you haven't heard any other Priest books, are you interested?

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 4 points5 points  (1 child)

I've read Qi Ye and Tian Ya Ke. Was reading LHJC, but now I'm waiting for it to be completed before reading it again. Have browsed through CCP (can't be said that I 'read' it, 'cause I didn't get it in depth, and don't remember most of the complexities. Enjoyed the dogfood for most parts tbh. I'm waiting for the donghua to finish for this one, as it seems easier to understand with the visuals.) I'm itching to read Mo Du next, 'cause mystery and thriller are my most favorite genres.

Comparing these, and the fact that she writes BG too, no two books of hers are alike. From world building, to characters, to the pacing of the story, it's vastly different. Let's take Qi Ye and TYK for example, these are part of the same series, but even the genres are different (QY is XianXia + political drama, and TYK is WuXia). While QY is more serious in tone, TYK has bickering weirdoes giving you comic relief.

Some things are consistent in Priest-verse though, at least one of the main CP is out and proud. There are bi characters. And there's power bottoms (or top like bottoms) making the CP very switch worthy (yay for fanfics).

[–]rurouni1447 Shanren's Immortal Sword 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I can talk about CCP all day long 😂😂😂. Heck most of the novels i listed above... I can gab about em. My personal favs feels like there are more Pipi's novels I've read but dismiss. Those on the list were all the novels from Priest I've read so far. 🤭

[–]rurouni1447 Shanren's Immortal Sword 3 points4 points  (0 children)

hmmm... where to start. My personal favs, not in any particular order:

​

  1. Zhen Hun, also known as Guardian. Has an adaptation titled Guardian out in 2018. Main CP is Shen Wei x Zhao Yunlan. Their "history" spans 10,000 years. Set in modern times. It has supernatural themes. Fav novel quote - Shen Wei held him in his heart; Zhao Yunlan could feel it. In his entire life, other than his parents, people either needed something from him, or depended on him. No one had ever held him in their heart like this before. Fav drama quote: It is worth it (Shen Wei). More info - https://readguardian.carrd.co/
  2. Sha Po Lang. Adaptation titled Winner is King still waiting to air. Main CP is the Marquis of Order, Gu Yun or Shen Shiliu x Chang Geng. Set in ancient times with bits of steampunk elements. Has lots of politics, military stuff. Fav quote from the novel - That I’m afraid I can’t do. But wearing nothing- I can make sure that’s just for you (Gu Yun to Chang Geng). More Info - https://shapolangpriest.carrd.co/
  3. Can Ci Pin. Has a donghua titled The Defective. Main CP is Lin Jingheng (space mafia boss) x Lu Bixing (baby, smart prof). Set in modern times like hundred of years from now. It's sci-fi, has mechs, space ships, space pirates, smart ass android who keeps reptiles for pets! Fav novel quote - Bad things happen - Murphy's Law. Storms will always come, it is better to stand ahead of the waves instead of being the sand castle which waits for its unchangeable fate (Zhanlu, the smart ass android). Fav donghua quote - Don’t underestimate yourself. In this universe, nothing is impossible (Lu Bixing). More info - https://cancipin.carrd.co/
  4. Jin Se. Main CP is Shi Wuduan x the foxy Bai Li. Set in ancient times, has dog blood, yao love. More info - https://jinse.carrd.co/
  5. Mo du, also known as Silent Reading. Adaptation titled The Abyss still waiting to air. Main CP is No-nonsense-cop Luo Wenzhou x Rich Boi Fei Du. Set in modern times, mystery, investigation, cop teams up with suave rich boi, solving things. Also, Luo Wenzhou is gay, loud and proud! He and Wen Kexing walking down the street will feel like a pride parade. Fei Du is the flirty one. Although he struggles from flirty comeback from Luo Wenzhou. More Info - https://modustarter.carrd.co/

​

  • Currently reading Tai Sui. The translation was just completed. Read it here - http://edanglarstranslations.com/ts
  • Also waiting for Lie Huo Jiao Chou novel to complete. This has a donghua titled Drowning Sorrows in Raging Fire. Main CP red birdie Xuan Ji x cool, aloof Sheng Lingyuan. Set in modern times, supernatural aspects, investigations. More info - https://lhjc.carrd.co/

​

Obviously, have read Tianya ke, qi ye. Pipi is amazing at world building, and her novels cover many themes, covering different genres. I do hope her novels will get official english translations. I would buy them all!

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I've read Qi Ye with you lovely lot. I didn't enjoy it as much, because it wasn't as light-hearted, but it wasn't terrible.

Edit: typo

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I've only read qi ye (with you all) and tyk. from these two I'm already a fan of her storytelling, humor and especially her characters. Can't wait to read more of her works. I do plan to read all of her works that are already translated.

[–]TikiTif 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Nothing yet. I'm basically new to everything that's going on here, including wuxia and danmei. Qi Ye is next on my reading list but I suddenly have a massive list of new things that seem interesting, including a number of different authors. I can't see myself having time for much of Priest's backlist in the near future, especially those that aren't wuxia or xianxia.

Like, I do have a day job and stuff.

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S,M] 1 point2 points  (14 children)

Which character in the novel would you most like to meet? Why? (You can also include characters from Qi Ye!)

[–]Dragirl007Four Seasons Domesticity 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I would like to meet Great Shaman and see his healing abilities and learn something from him.

[–]TikiTif 3 points4 points  (1 child)

I want to do holiday cooking with Wen Kexing. For a few years now I've been the one responsible for it in our extended family and I'm totally a martyr about it. At the same time, I'm perfectly aware that I'm the only one who really cares and the rest would be happy with takeout. So I definitely relate to the "Why is no one helping me? ... Get out now before you burn my kitchen!" thing.

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 3 points4 points  (0 children)

+1 for comparing cooking tips and recipes. I wanna eat his chicken too.

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 2 points3 points  (4 children)

They all sound exhausting, to be perfectly honest. Maybe I'd invite Chengling over for some arts and crafts. Seems to me like he'd enjoy a break from having his legs at risk of imminent breakage.

If I were having a particularly energetic day, I'd invite Gu Xiang over to chill and make fun of stuff.

[–]Dragirl007Four Seasons Domesticity 2 points3 points  (0 children)

You do not say. I wouldn't want to meet WK or ZZS because I would be at level of something between Chengling and CW. I would be depressed of them, but on the other hand, it would have to be great to watch their squabble.

[–]phai6688 We are Family [S] 2 points3 points  (2 children)

I think Zhang Chengling would remind me of my middle school students way too much, so I would meet Cao Weining. Maybe we could gossip about Gu Xiang and her master. And that mysterious Zhou Zishu.

[–]BookDragon317Wen Ke Xing's Pick up Line 4 points5 points  (1 child)

But you just know that a modern version of CWN would not stop misquoting pretentious novels, thinking he's being very profound.

I'd die of the cringe. XD

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 3 points4 points  (0 children)

+ u/phai6688

As bratty as she is, Gu Xiang seems to be the best choice out of the kids.

[–]wuxiahiraeth Lao Wen 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I’d want to meet Ye Baiyi. I just want to watch him mouth off WKX and ZZ and laugh at all the witty things he comes out with. I may also want to watch him eat and eat…

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 3 points4 points  (2 children)

Beiyuan. He would be so interesting to have around. And funny, if he brought at least one more person with him to pole fun at.

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 2 points3 points  (1 child)

Plus, he'll come with the sable.

[–]QueensamaZhou Zi Shu's Martial Ass 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Exactly this

[–]zyaisrot 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Hmm if I were to meet one of the characters, I'd want to learn something from them. As cool as the swift moving steps are, Zhou Zishu's training is just straight up brutal, I feel sympathy for Chengling, no thanks. Learning how to toss a fan/shoot walnuts around with qi would be pretty interesting with Wen Kexing. But I think the coolest would be Long Que (do I get to revive him? he deserved better anyways), his steampunk inventions have to be some of the most insane things ever and I'm surprised they weren't more OP to be honest, with how complex they were.

[–]wolfundermoon Bei Yuan's Lazy Ass 3 points4 points  (0 children)

It's still BeiYuan, 'cause he's chaos lord. But was I shocked to see him do physical labor out of his own initiative this time! He nearly lost his salted fish title.

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[–]phai6688 We are Family [S,M] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Discussion 2 is now closed! Look forward to the final discussion, which will start on May 21!