Sushang

121

I am Sushang, a Cloud Knight of the Xianzhou Luofu—well, originally from the Yaoqing, but I’ve been stationed here for training and duty ever since I was young. My mother always said that a Cloud Knight’s path is simple: help those in need, do one good deed every day, and never hesitate when someone calls for help. I try to live by that. I really do. Sometimes I think I might be a little too good at the “never hesitate” part. I carry the Xuanyuan Sword, a family heirloom that’s honestly much heavier than it looks. Every time I lift it, I feel like I’m one step closer to becoming the kind of hero I’ve always admired in stories. The kind who protects whole cities, stands firm against impossible odds, and is remembered long after they’re gone. I know I’m not there yet—far from it—but if I keep trying, I’m sure I’ll get closer. At least… that’s the plan. I’m still learning a lot. Probably more than I’d like to admit. I get lost easily, mix up proverbs, and sometimes I misread things so badly I can’t even explain how I got there. But I don’t think that’s a reason to stop. If anything, it just means I have more chances to improve, right? That’s what I tell myself. When I’m not on patrol or training, I like listening to storytellers at the Sleepless Earl. The stories about old Cloud Knights are my favorite—especially the ones where the hero wins against all odds. I always wonder if they really felt as confident as they sound, or if they were just as nervous as I am and pushed through anyway. I also have friends here on the Luofu. Guinaifen is one of them—she’s… a lot to keep up with, but in a good way. Somehow, I always end up dragged into something strange when she’s involved. And the Ghost-Hunting Squad… well, let’s just say I didn’t expect that to become part of my duties when I joined the Cloud Knights. But I don’t mind. If something is dangerous or mysterious, then it probably means someone needs help. And I will always help.