A Thorny Growth

When Angel opened his eyes again, he first saw a pure white bed canopy, followed by a worried man at the edge of the bed.

The man had an extremely alluring face, with seductive eyes. Holding a bowl of medicine, seeing him awake, he said joyfully, "You're finally awake."

Angel choked out, "Who are you?"

The man: "I am Zhu Quci."

Angel wanted to say more, but Zhu Quci stopped him. "Drink the medicine first." With that, he helped Angel up and fed him the medicine spoon by spoon.

After finishing the medicine, Zhu Quci smiled at Angel, his expression gentle. "I found you by the river. At that time, the wound on your neck was very deep. Fortunately, I found you in time, otherwise you would have died from excessive blood loss."

Angel smiled gratefully. "Thank you very much."

A flash of surprise appeared in Zhu Quci's eyes, and he dazed for a moment. "Where did you come from? What is your name? I will send someone to return you to your family."

Angel was about to say the Garden of Eden, but imagining Tian Zhou who was as mad as a demon, he lowered his head. "I've forgotten."

Hearing this, Zhu Quci wrapped his arm around Angel's shoulder and patted his back. "It's fine if you can't remember. Before you do, you can always stay with me. You can be my younger brother."

Angel was moved by Zhu Quci's warmth and kindness, and he nodded.

"For now, your name will be Zhu Li, alright?"

Angel immediately agreed.

A peaceful month passed, and Angel, under the identity of Zhu Quci's younger brother Zhu Li, lived with Zhu Quci.

Compared to the eccentric Tian Zhou, Zhu Quci was much more normal. He was an exceptionally gentle elder brother, giving Angel equal respect and freedom. With Zhu Quci, Angel felt the sensation of being an independent, free individual for the first time.

Aside from Zhu Quci, Angel also got to know a priest. The priest often came to Zhu Quci's house as a guest, and from him, Angel heard many interesting Bible stories.

Yesterday, the priest invited him to the church for afternoon tea, and he mentioned this invitation to Zhu Quci.

Zhu Quci put down the book in his hand and smiled, advising Angel, "That's great. I'll have someone take you to the church. Be careful, and remember to come back early."

Angel nodded. "Alright!" This was the first time no one restricted his freedom; he could go wherever he wanted.

He rode in a carriage to the church. Before long, they arrived, and Priest Johan stood at the church entrance.

The priest welcomed him with a smile. "You actually came."

The two entered the church's backyard, where there was a small table. The maid had already laid out freshly baked sweet pastries.

Angel sat on a chair, and the priest sat beside him. The priest raised his teacup. "This black tea is exceptionally fragrant. Have a taste."

Angel heard this and took a sip of the hot tea. The black tea was indeed very fragrant and warm, warming him to his very core.

The priest began to tell interesting Bible stories again, and Angel listened intently.

"Zhu Li, do you know about soul-bearers?" the priest suddenly asked.

Angel was startled, and he nodded tentatively.

The priest: "In past eras, the human world did not have abilities that surpassed ordinary people, let alone defeat human armies.

But one day, this world suddenly saw the appearance of a type of people. They were approved by angels or demons, gaining the power of angels or demons, power so strong that they could defeat armies.

This type of people are soul-bearers. The appearance of soul-bearers marked the end of the old world. Relying on their powerful strength, they plundered the world's resources and ruled this world."

Angel recalled what the fake angels had said about the great nobles. He said, "Are the great nobles soul-bearers?"

The priest nodded. "Indeed."

"Priest!" Someone entered from outside, his voice extremely loud. "The Third City has begun selecting Tuosihua!"

The priest looked toward the newcomer, who was panting, his expression filled with indignation.

"Hei Lou, take it easy first, speak slowly." The priest invited the newcomer to sit down.

Hei Lou finished the tea in the pot before calming down. He slammed his hand on the table angrily. "The Third City has begun selecting Tuosihua. Before long, it will reach our Tenth City. Must we also conduct the Tuosihua selection?"

Angel was full of confusion. "What is the Tuosihua selection?"

Hei Lou looked at Angel in surprise. The priest explained softly, "Zhu Li was gravely ill and forgot many things from the past."

Angel understood; Zhu Quci had used this excuse to explain things to the people around him.

Hei Lou only then returned to normal, explaining simply:

"Do you know about the ancient emperors? This Tuosihua selection is similar to an ancient emperor selecting concubines. Great nobles use the Tuosihua selection to choose their favorite pets, and these pets are called the great nobles' Tuosihua.

The selection is held every year, and the chosen Tuosihua will enter the Lanyuan in the First City. Some call Lanyuan the place of glorious depravity in the mortal realm, because all the beauties of the Earth are gathered there."

Hei Lou suddenly stopped his story, evaluating Angel, and muttered, "I suggest you don't go out casually in the future, otherwise you'll be taken away by the officials in charge of the Tuosihua selection. With your looks, you'll be played to death by the great nobles."

Angel was frightened by Hei Lou's last words. "Alright. But why do the great nobles conduct the Tuosihua selection?"

Hei Lou snorted. "Just for amusement. Since the world began its atonement, the great nobles have monopolized the world's resources. No one dares to oppose them, nor can anyone. Isn't this world just a playground for the strong?"

A playground for the strong, Angel pondered deeply.

Hei Lou and the priest talked about the great nobles.

From their words, the great nobles possessed immense power; by estimation, a full-force strike from one could destroy the entire Earth.

Hei Lou rested his chin on his hand, sighing. "Because the great nobles were approved by angels or demons, they became the most noble soul-bearers, relying on this power to become the masters of the world. Priest, if you had this kind of power and became a soul-bearer, what would you do?"

The priest thought seriously. "I don't know. I think I would fear this power."

Angel was puzzled. "Why fear it? In my mind, having power means one is free, others cannot control you, let alone hurt you."

The priest: "I fear that if I obtain this supreme power, I will lose my original heart. I worry that the evil side of my soul will be awakened by this supreme power, and I will begin to use it to satisfy my desires, which can never be filled. In the end, I might end up like the great nobles, dominating the world."

Hei Lou looked at the priest with respect. Although the priest was aging, his eyes were exceptionally clear.

A maid entered from outside. "Brother Zhu Li, it's time to go home. Your brother has sent someone to pick you up."

Angel stood up and bid farewell to the two.

Returning home, Zhu Quci was still reading, surrounded by various books. Seeing Angel return, his gaze finally left the pages.

"Let's go eat." Zhu Quci put down his book, smiling gently.

In the garden, Angel casually ate some vegetables. He actually didn't need to eat, but to avoid unnecessary trouble, his daily behavior remained like an ordinary person.

Zhu Quci said casually, "What did the priest talk to you about?"

Angel: "They talked about many things, about the great nobles, the Tuosihua selection, and Lanyuan."

Zhu Quci elegantly wiped his mouth, put down his knife and fork, his eyes darkening. "So they talked about those things."

He suddenly stared at Angel with a serious face. "Zhu Li, in your heart, what is our relationship?"

Angel answered sincerely, "You are my brother."

Zhu Quci curled his lips, smiling sincerely. "If, and I mean if, I have a favor to ask of you, would you be willing to help me? My brother."

Angel said without hesitation, "Of course. You saved my life, so of course I will help you." Furthermore, Zhu Quci treated him so well, he didn't believe Zhu Quci would harm him.

Three days later, an uninvited guest knocked on Zhu Quci's door. He was an official from the First City, in charge of the Tuosihua selection.

At that time, Angel was reading with Zhu Quci in the study. Upon hearing the maid's report, Zhu Quci hastily told Angel to hide in the secret room behind the study. Just as Angel hid inside, the official walked in.

Angel slightly opened the door of the secret room, leaving only a crack. He saw the arrogant demeanor of the official and the submissive posture of Zhu Quci.

"With your looks, you can absolutely enter Lanyuan. When the time comes, you can enjoy several lifetimes of wealth and glory," the official sat on the chair, speaking with a superior air. "Take my advice, entering the Tuosihua selection has a hundred benefits and not a single harm for you."

Zhu Quci bit his lip, saying nothing.

"The great nobles select several Tuosihua from Lanyuan to bring back to their cities," the official said with deep meaning. "Don't think my words are harsh. Only by entering Lanyuan can the great nobles see you. You can't expect to become a favorite beside the great nobles just by reading a few books."

Zhu Quci lowered his head even further.

The official didn't say much either. "In short, the Tenth City needs to have one person enter the Tuosihua selection, and the first person chosen is you. If you don't want to go, there is only one way..."

He lifted Zhu Quci's face. "That is to find someone even more beautiful than you. Male or female doesn't matter, what matters is beauty."

The official brushed his hand off Zhu Quci's face and swaggered away.

Zhu Quci squatted on the ground alone. Even when Angel walked to his side, Zhu Quci didn't snap out of it.

Angel squatted down, looking at Zhu Quci. Zhu Quci's eyes were red. Angel intended to pull him up.

Instead, Zhu Quci grabbed his arm, pleading, "Zhu Li, I beg of you, go to the Tuosihua selection in my place. Go in my stead, alright?"

Angel's expression froze slightly. Tears welled in Zhu Quci's eyes as he hugged Angel's waist, looking up at him humbly: "In a month, the First City will conduct a talent examination. I only need to pass the exam to become a subordinate of the great noble, and then I can be beside him openly."

"Zhu Li, I beg of you. Please consider that I saved your life. I beg you to take my place in the Tuosihua selection."

Zhu Quci's face was covered in tears. Angel reached out to wipe them away. "You are my only brother. If you want me to go, I will go."

"Thank you so much." Zhu Quci was moved to tears.

*

The official in charge of the Tuosihua selection was named Yi Jiaze. After Angel agreed to Zhu Quci's request, Yi Jiaze visited again the next day, and this time, he directly took Angel away.

Zhu Quci stood at the door to see them off. Angel turned back to look at Zhu Quci, suddenly calling out, "Brother." Zhu Quci smiled and nodded. His smile carried sincerity and sorrow, and his eyes were warm, but Angel saw the coldness behind that warmth.

Angel was dazed. There were many things he didn't dare think back on.

Zhu Quci was his brother, the only brother who respected his wishes. Moreover, Zhu Quci had saved him, so he ought to repay him.

Yi Jiaze brought him to the member district of the Tenth City.

The human world was divided into twelve cities, called the "Twelve Cities", named from one to twelve. He and Zhu Quci lived in the Tenth City, while the most prosperous city was the First City, which was also the residence of the great nobles.

Each city had a member district, which was the residential area for the high officials and nobles of the city. It was magnificent inside, gathering all the exquisite and luxurious items of humanity.

"You will stay here for now. Regarding food, clothing, and accommodation, you can tell me if you have any requests," Yi Jiaze said gently. He looked at Angel's eyes, which shone with a golden light, as if Angel were not a person, but a massive amount of money.

After all, once Zhu Li became a Tuosihua, he, as the recommender, could obtain countless wealth and status. Once Zhu Li gained the favor of the great noble, as his recommender, he would naturally receive all kinds of honors.

Angel merely nodded, saying flatly, "Alright."

Yi Jiaze brushed Angel's long hair. "Is your hair natural? It's like snow."

Angel glanced at the strand of hair resting on his shoulder. "It's natural."

"Are you really Zhu Quci's brother? After all, you and Zhu Quci don't look alike at all. Although Zhu Quci can be considered a beauty, compared to him, you are like..." Yi Jiaze thought for a moment, "Like an angel, an angel fallen from the sky to the mortal realm. You possess a beauty that transcends the mundane."

Angel lowered his head, his expression weary.

Yi Jiaze reached out, wanting to pat Angel's head, but ultimately held back. "Then rest well. I am in the room right next to yours. You can call me if anything happens."

Angel nodded very obediently.

Yi Jiaze walked to the door, turned back to stare at Angel, and couldn't help but sigh.

Zhu Li completely suited the great noble's aesthetic. He was extremely beautiful, and the more beautiful something was, the more the great noble desired to control and destroy it.

And he was so beautiful that he didn't touch the dust of the world. The purer something was, the more the great noble wanted to defile it with the mundane.

This was his experience from years of being an official for the Tuosihua selection—the cruel pleasure of the great nobles was to destroy beautiful existences.

Zhu Li was like a white camellia, so fragile that a gentle pinch would crush him, yet he himself was extremely easy to arouse the great noble's desire. His body was the very rose that enticed the great noble.

The next day, Yi Jiaze brought Angel to the First City. The First City was a city in the sky, far more prosperous than the Tenth City.

The city was divided into three floating islands, each representing a district. The First City had three districts in total, called the Left Island, Middle Island, and Right Island.

Yi Jiaze and Angel went to the Left Island. This Left Island was the entertainment district of the First City, a place where many people spent money. Lanyuan was located on the Left Island.

Angel was made to wear a hat and mask by Yi Jiaze, safely arriving at Baihechuan near Lanyuan, which was the location for the Tuosihua selection.

Two days later, Baihechuan would gather beauties from the twelve cities. They would conduct a beauty selection here, and the final winner would enter Lanyuan, becoming playthings for the high-class nobility.

When Yi Jiaze told Angel that the Tuosihua selection would take place in two days, Angel began to feel afraid and terrified. He had thoughts of running away, but if he ran, what would happen to Zhu Quci? Yi Jiaze would definitely return to the Tenth City, and by then, Zhu Quci would have to participate in the selection.

But if he didn't run, what if he was selected?

On one hand, he hoped to fulfill Zhu Quci's request; on the other hand, by accepting Zhu Quci's demand, the one who suffered was himself.

At night, Angel tossed and turned in bed, unable to find a way to have the best of both worlds.

Finally, the day of the selection arrived.

During these two days, Yi Jiaze kept a close eye on Angel, fearing he would run away. Outside Angel's room, there were constantly guards sent by Yi Jiaze. Even if Angel had thoughts of escaping, he couldn't actually run away.

On this day of the Tuosihua selection, Baihechuan was as quiet as death. Yi Jiaze brought Angel to the selection venue, which was a very large garden. At this moment, the garden was already filled with a vast crowd of beauties from the twelve cities, both male and female, all graceful and elegant.

They all stood quietly, the expressions on their faces varied. Some had suppressed excitement and joy, some lowered their heads with eyes full of despair, and many were numb—a numbness that didn't care about anything, including themselves.

Angel felt sympathy in his heart. Most people did not want to become others' playthings but lacked the capital and ability to resist this unfair, destructive treatment, so they could only remain numb, numb to the point of giving up on themselves.

The chief supervisor of the Tuosihua selection stood on the stage. His gaze swept across everyone's faces, finally stopping on Angel's. His eyes suddenly lit up—it was the gaze of someone who saw his future wealth and status.

Angel felt uncomfortable. He took a few steps back, hiding behind someone else.

The supervisor shifted his gaze, opening his mouth: "The great noble will arrive in about half an hour."

Time ticked away second by second. Angel unconsciously clenched his fingers. As time passed, he grew even more terrified, this fear intense to the extreme, making his entire body tremble.

He felt that if he didn't run now, there would truly be no way back. If he didn't leave, there would be no chance to leave in the future.

A small bird perched on a high tree branch. Angel looked over; it was a canary. The canary only stopped on the branch for a moment before flying away, its figure disappearing into the endless free sky.

Angel turned around and ran toward the exit of Baihechuan. He bypassed the crowd of beauties gathered for the selection, heading toward his freedom.

Seeing this, Yi Jiaze chased after him to stop Angel. The supervisor signaled the surrounding legion, and they immediately acted, blocking Angel's path.

Yi Jiaze tightly grabbed Angel's wrist, letting out a sigh. "Zhu Li, it's useless. From the moment you were handed over to me by your so-called brother, you had no way back."

He took out a pure white handkerchief from his pocket, wiping away the tears that had involuntarily flowed from Angel's eyes. "Believe me, the great noble will truly dote on you. You will obtain supreme glory, status, wealth, and power. Whatever you want, you will get, but you must pay the corresponding price—you must pay with your freedom and your body."

Angel grabbed Yi Jiaze's hand, shaking his head repeatedly, opening his mouth to say something, but no words came out. He had finally escaped the Garden of Eden where he was imprisoned by Tian Zhou, only to fall into another cage with no end in sight.

He was a canary that would never have freedom.

Through his tear-blurred eyes, a pair of slender, fair hands snatched the handkerchief from Yi Jiaze's hand. Those hands used the handkerchief to wipe the tears from Angel's face, black fingernails gently brushing past Angel's eyes, finally gripping Angel's chin.

"Why are you crying so pitifully?" the person said gently.

Angel blinked, seeing the person clearly. The person had a pair of blood-red pupils, and at this moment, those blood-red eyes were staring at him gently.

It was Hua Jian.

It turned out that the so-called great noble was Hua Jian.

The supervisor and Yi Jiaze waited respectfully on the side.

He didn't even think twice, turning around to run, but before he could run far, Hua Jian flashed in front of him. He crashed into Hua Jian's embrace. Hua Jian stroked Angel's face, saying cruelly, "Daring to run? I'll break your legs."

The supervisor laughed, smiling flatteringly. He asked Hua Jian, "So, is this year's Tuosihua decided?"

Hua Jian was still staring at Angel, looking mesmerized. The supervisor smiled with satisfaction. Zhu Li's beauty did not belong to the mortal realm; he was like an angel meticulously created by God, who poured all His love and favoritism into him. Look, even the great noble had never met anyone so beautiful, falling into the angel's temptation.

"The Tuosihua shall be him," Hua Jian spoke.

Just as Hua Jian had come, he left silently.

Yi Jiaze still stared at the place where the great noble had taken Angel. He should have felt joyful, because the great noble had indeed shown interest in Zhu Li. Afterward, he would obtain countless wealth and the highest status; he should have been happy.

But he recalled the moment before the great noble vanished with Zhu Li. Zhu Li had looked at him, his face full of terror, opening his mouth to say two words: "Save me."

He naturally couldn't save Zhu Li. Even if he wagered his life to save Zhu Li, he couldn't save him.

The great nobles were soul-bearers; they possessed power that all of humanity could not stop.

Zhu Li falling into his current end was partly due to Zhu Quci's exploitation, but the main culprit was Zhu Li's beauty. Without beauty, Zhu Quci wouldn't have been able to let Zhu Li take his place in the selection; without beauty, the great noble wouldn't have taken a liking to Zhu Li.

But the root of this matter was that Zhu Li possessed a beautiful appearance yet lacked the power to protect himself, and this chaotic world where black and white rarely saw the light.

What would Zhu Li's future be? Yi Jiaze boldly guessed that he would likely obtain all the love of the great noble, but correspondingly, he would suffer the imprisonment of a madman. He would never have freedom again; freedom was a distant hope he could never catch up to.

At this moment, a canary flew back to the branch. It opened its beak, accidentally biting off a white flower. The white flower fell to the ground, trampled and crushed by the people leaving Baihechuan.

In his mind, he recalled another flower—a pure white camellia. Zhu Li was extremely like a white camellia, untouched by dust, so beautiful that coming to the mortal realm was a defilement.

A white camellia falling into the mortal realm could only receive imprisonment and defilement under the name of love from the world. Only when the white camellia itself turned into a rose with thorns could it protect itself in this dangerous world.

He needed to grow sharp thorns to deal with this irredeemable world.