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Jade Craftsman
墨書 Inktalez
My father is a renowned Jade Craftsman, specializing in Red Jade Bracelets. These bracelets are only sold to men who have been deeply hurt by women. Once they wear it, no matter how despondent they feel, they can be reborn.
It was only later that I understood; it wasn’t just a bracelet—it represented their women.
My father is the most famous Jade Craftsman within a hundred miles, but he only makes Red Jade Bracelets, priced exorbitantly. He has a rule: he only crafts bracelets for men, and they must be men who have been severely wounded by women.
I was sitting in the yard soaking up the sun when a middle-aged man with a weathered face came to see my father. I knew he was there to pick up a Red Jade Bracelet. A few days earlier, he had come with his wife and another man, but when they left, he was the only one who walked out.
To make a Red Jade Bracelet, there must be one woman and two men; that’s the rule.
“Dad, someone’s here for you,” I called out.
My father greeted him with a smile. “Uncle Wang, the Red Jade Bracelet has been ready for some time. Would you like to try it on? If it doesn’t fit, I can adjust it.”
Uncle Wang looked somewhat awkward as he replied, “The original size is fine; I’m used to wearing it.”
My father leaned closer to Uncle Wang and whispered with a chuckle, “It’s more comfortable if it’s a bit looser.”
The door on the second floor slammed shut. I tiptoed upstairs and pressed my ear against the door. Ever since I could remember, my father had been making Red Jade Bracelets, but I had never seen one in person. Each time someone came to pick up a bracelet, my father would lock the door. Soon after, muffled groans from men would echo from within.
Before long, Uncle Wang’s voice emerged—both pained and satisfied—and I could even detect a hint of relief in his tone.
I was anxious and curious; what did the Red Jade Bracelet look like? Why did it bring such liberation to those men?
Lost in thought, the sounds from inside ceased abruptly. I hurried back to the yard and pretended to sweep with a broom.
Moments later, Uncle Wang emerged holding an exquisite box, his complexion noticeably brighter.
I couldn’t tell if it was just my imagination, but Uncle Wang seemed more spirited than when he arrived; the wrinkles on his face appeared less pronounced.
I knew that in a few days, Uncle Wang would completely transform into an invigorated man. That was the magic of the Red Jade Bracelet.
Uncle Wang stopped in front of me and asked my father, “When are you planning to let your son inherit your craft?”
My father frowned at me for a moment before sighing. “He’s not ready yet. Once he gets himself a girlfriend, then he can take over my work. I’ve been wanting to retire for quite some time.”
My father asked me to inherit his craft, which meant I could finally see the mysterious Red Jade Bracelet.
Actually, I had already been dating a girlfriend, and we were incredibly close. However, my father had always been against me dating, so I didn’t dare to tell him.
Once Uncle Wang left, I cheerfully said to my father, “Dad, I actually have a girlfriend already. Can you teach me how to make the Red Jade Bracelet?”
I looked at my father with excitement, calculating in my mind. A Red Jade Bracelet sells for two hundred thousand; if I made three a month, after a few years I could retire and live a carefree life with Ye Wanshuang.
I thought my father would be happy to hear about my girlfriend, but instead, he looked even more troubled, his gaze heavy as if a mountain rested upon it.
“Have you two... slept together?”
My face flushed hot; I hadn’t expected such a direct question from him. Given his temper in the past, I was genuinely afraid he might hit me.
“It’s fine; just tell me. You’re an adult now; I won’t control you like when you were a child.”
I awkwardly nodded.
My father smiled and patted my shoulder. Although he was smiling, I sensed a complex emotion in his eyes.
“You’ve grown up.”
“Why don’t you bring your girlfriend over one day? I’d like to chat with her.”
“If she passes my test, then you can start making the Red Jade Bracelets. The first bracelet we artisans make is always for ourselves.”
I secretly thought to myself that I had never seen my father’s Red Jade Bracelet; I needed to find an opportunity to check it out in his room someday.
With joy in my heart, I called Ye Wanshuang to tell her that my father wanted to meet her. Ye Wanshuang happily agreed and said she would come visit as soon as she finished her work.
I couldn’t help but share the news that my father wanted me to take over his business and that I was going to get rich.
Ye Wanshuang was even more excited than I was, discussing plans about buying a house in the city once we had money and moving my father there with us.
A month later, Ye Wanshuang came to visit my home.
Early in the morning, I waited for her at the entrance of the village. When Ye Wanshuang saw me, her expression was somewhat displeased.
“He Zheng, you said your family is wealthy; why do you live in such a remote place? Are you lying to me?”
My family lived on the shady side of the mountain because making the Red Jade Bracelet required a dark environment due to its association with yin energy. From our current angle, we couldn’t see our large house at all.
I affectionately took Ye Wanshuang's hand.
"You'll see my home soon. Don't worry, you definitely won't be disappointed."
Ye Wanshuang looked at me with a hint of skepticism.
"I'll trust you this once, but if you trick me, I'll turn around and leave immediately."
I tightly linked my arm with Ye Wanshuang's, feeling a bit anxious. Although she was the one who pursued me, I really liked her, especially her eyes, which sparkled like stars when she smiled.
Her figure was also particularly attractive, especially in certain aspects that left me a bit overwhelmed.
As we rounded the hill, Ye Wanshuang spotted the large house built halfway up the mountain, her eyes widening in surprise. "He Zheng, that can't be your home, can it?"
"Yes, didn't I tell you? My family is doing quite well."
Ye Wanshuang glanced down at the gift she was holding and seemed a bit uneasy. "Is this little thing too shabby?"
I stole a glance at the discounted fruit she had bought from the supermarket and smiled to reassure her. "It's fine; I like it. My dad won't mind."
In the distance, I could see my dad standing at the door. The moment Ye Wanshuang saw him, her eyes went wide.
"He Zheng, why didn't you tell me you have an older brother?"
Everyone who meets my dad for the first time often mistakes him for my brother. He is tall with deep features and skin as smooth as a young man's, without a wrinkle in sight. Especially his eyes—they are so deep that they draw people in.
Ye Wanshuang instinctively tidied her hair and muttered softly, "Your dad is so handsome; how come you don't look like him at all?"
I had asked my dad that question when I was younger.
I’ve always been quite ordinary—not too tall or short, not too fat or thin—my appearance has never stood out. During my teenage years, I even had a bout of acne; although it has cleared up now, there are still a few marks visible on my face.
Whenever customers came to our shop, they would jokingly say I was picked up by my dad from the roadside.
My dad would always laugh and reply, "Actually, he looks just like me; once he learns to make Red Jade Bracelets, he'll be even more handsome than I am."
So I've always wanted to learn how to make Red Jade Bracelets; I felt those materials had some magical power that could make someone more attractive.
"My dad said that once I learn to make Red Jade Bracelets, I'll become handsome."
Ye Wanshuang squeezed my shoulder and smiled. "Let's hope so."
When we reached my dad, Ye Wanshuang politely greeted him. "Hello, Uncle. I'm He Zheng's girlfriend, Ye Wanshuang."
My dad smiled slightly and extended his hand to shake hers. "Hello, Wanshuang. I'm He Zheng's father."
Ye Wanshuang looked pleasantly surprised as she shook my dad's hand and held on for quite some time. It wasn't until I cleared my throat that she reluctantly let go.
I shot her an annoyed glance and stormed into the house. My dad, however, seemed quite pleased. He caught up to me and whispered in my ear, "This girl has potential!"
What potential? I thought to myself, not bothering to respond.
At the dinner table, my dad began inquiring about Ye Wanshuang's family background, growing more satisfied with each detail. When Ye Wanshuang was eighteen, her parents had died in a car accident, and now she lived alone and had a decent job.
Honestly, I was also quite satisfied. With no mother-in-law conflicts to worry about and a girlfriend who was both beautiful and capable, I felt like I could smile in my sleep with such good fortune.
After a few drinks, Ye Wanshuang started to cling to my dad, crying and saying that once we got married, she would move in with him. My dad was like her own father.
We were having a lively conversation when Uncle Wang arrived. I knew Uncle Wang had become handsome, but seeing him in person was still a shock. With his chiseled features, deep-set eyes, and sturdy build, he walked with an air of confidence that made him look like a movie star.
Uncle Wang brought several boxes of fine wine to thank my dad. I was used to it by now and lowered my head to peel shrimp for Ye Wanshuang.
Her eyes were fixed on those boxes of wine. After exchanging pleasantries with my dad, Uncle Wang came over and patted Ye Wanshuang on the shoulder.
"This girl is quite beautiful; your son has good taste," he remarked.
Ye Wanshuang didn’t shy away; instead, she smiled at Uncle Wang. He then playfully pinched her waist. Ye Wanshuang blushed and quickly dodged away but didn’t seem angry; she continued smiling at him.
Uncle Wang grinned at my dad and said, "Once your son's Red Jade Bracelet is ready, he'll be quite the catch—probably even more handsome than me."
I was so furious that I slammed my chopsticks down and went straight upstairs.
I thought Ye Wanshuang would come after me to comfort me, but instead, she said she wanted to see Uncle Wang off. My dad's expression darkened instantly; he called Ye Wanshuang back and went to see Uncle Wang off himself.
That night, after turning off the lights, Ye Wanshuang feigned sleep and quickly dozed off. I touched my face and thought that once I became more handsome, she would surely look at me more often.
Lying in bed unable to sleep, I decided to get up and take some fresh air in the yard.
A series of low, intermittent gasps reached my ears. There weren't many neighbors around my home, so the sound could only belong to my father.
My mother passed away shortly after I was born. Could it be that my father had found someone new? I frowned, feeling a mix of emotions. However, I could understand; it must have been difficult for him to be single for so many years. I was just curious about who could capture his heart.
I quietly moved to the window of my father's room, and just one glance left me stunned. What was he doing?
He was sitting beside a round jade platform, holding a Red Jade Bracelet in his hand, his face filled with an expression of pure enjoyment. He had his eyes closed, occasionally letting out low, throaty hums.
How could a bracelet make him feel so good? It seemed as if he were having an intimate encounter with someone.
I shook my head, quickly dismissing that thought. A mere bracelet couldn't compare to true companionship.
After a while, my father stood up, and the red glow from the bracelet gradually dimmed until it completely vanished. I widened my eyes, trying to see more clearly, but it was too far away to make out any details.
He brought over a basin of water and carefully washed the Red Jade Bracelet. While cleaning it, he kept murmuring softly, and to my shock, I heard my mother's name.
My mother's name—my father had called it out once when he was drunk. I had asked him what she looked like and what kind of person she was. That was the first time he had lost his temper with me, insisting that I should never mention her again. Since then, I had never dared to bring it up.
Once he finished cleaning, he wrapped the Red Jade Bracelet carefully and placed it in the safe.
Panicking, I hurried back to my room. Could that bracelet be his first Red Jade Bracelet? My father always said that the first bracelet made by a Red Jade Bracelet Artisan was meant for oneself. He often joked that he didn't need a Red Jade Bracelet because he already had a girlfriend.
One day, I would sell my bracelet and travel with Ye Wanshuang.
The next morning, my father took me into his room and opened the safe.
"You've always wanted to know what a Red Jade Bracelet looks like, right? Today I'll let you see."
I struggled to suppress my excitement as I followed him into the room. He opened the safe and carefully took out an exquisite wooden box.
As soon as the box opened, a faint fragrance wafted out, mingled with a subtle hint of blood.
It was the same bracelet he had held last night.
The shape of the Red Jade Bracelet resembled those worn by noblewomen in ancient times, but its texture was unlike ordinary jade; it felt almost... like human skin.
As I thought about it, a shiver ran down my spine, and goosebumps rose on my arms.
I stepped closer, wanting to pick it up for a better look, but my dad stopped me with a firm hand.
"This Red Jade Bracelet can only be touched by me. When you have your own, you can look at it however you like."
If I can't touch it, I can at least observe it, right?
Just as I leaned in, my dad blocked my view again.
"You can only look at the side; no touching the front."
I nodded and carefully examined the Red Jade Bracelet.
For some reason, I felt as if it was slightly trembling, almost alive, as if it could sense some kind of expectation from me.
When I pulled my gaze away, it seemed to sway gently, as if urging me to continue looking.
My dad noticed how long I had been staring and crouched down beside me, gently holding the Red Jade Bracelet in his hands, closing his eyes while his fingers slowly caressed its surface.
" mother He, did you see? Our son has grown up. He looks like you, not like me."
I look like my mom? I couldn't help but walk over to the mirror and scrutinize my face, but no matter how I looked at it, I didn't see her resemblance.
"Our son has a girlfriend now. You'll get to meet her soon."
"That girl is even more beautiful than you were back then, smarter too."
"Our He Zheng will surely make the best Red Jade Bracelet."
The more I listened, the more uneasy I felt, as if the Red Jade Bracelet were somehow my mother.
My dad brought over a basin of water and carefully washed the Red Jade Bracelet.
"He Zheng, you must clean the Red Jade Bracelet thoroughly after use; otherwise, it will have an unpleasant smell, just like those women who don't keep themselves clean."
I nodded silently and made a mental note of it.
My dad pulled an old sheepskin scroll from the drawer and handed it to me.
"The method for making the Red Jade Bracelet is all in here; you can read it yourself."
I opened the scroll and took one glance before slamming it shut in shock, nearly throwing it away.
How could it be like this?
I stared at my dad with a wave of nausea rising within me before turning and rushing out of the room. I ran into the yard, bent over, and dry heaved until I felt like I might vomit my stomach out.
Ye Wanshuang had just gotten up when she saw me in this state and hurried over.
"He Zheng, what’s wrong? Did you eat something bad? Let me take you to the hospital," she said.
I grabbed her hand and pushed her away with all my strength.
"Just go! Don’t come back to my house again. We need to move to the city and never come back."
Ye Wanshuang reached out to touch my forehead and smiled, "You’re not running a fever. Why are you suddenly saying this?"
"You said you couldn’t live without your dad, right?"
My father had always treated me well, and I used to rely on him. But if he truly was a devil, I was scared.
I quickly ran back to my room, packed Ye Wanshuang's things, and pushed her toward the door.
"Just go for now. Wait for my call; I’ll come find you."
Ye Wanshuang looked a bit angry and pushed me away, standing in the yard.
"He Zheng, what’s wrong with you? Why would you want to leave such a nice house and move to the city?"
I looked up and saw my father standing on the balcony of the second floor, coldly watching me.
I didn’t dare tell Ye Wanshuang the truth; she would definitely think I was crazy. I came up with a bunch of reasons to persuade her to leave, but she wouldn’t budge. I was so anxious that I almost knelt down in front of her. Just then, Ye Wanshuang’s phone rang.
She took out her phone, glanced at it, and a slight smile appeared on her lips.
"He Zheng, I have something to take care of. I’ll head back to the city for a bit. I’ll come find you once I’m done."
I watched her car disappear along the winding mountain road and finally let out a sigh of relief.
My father was sitting on the sofa with a remote control in hand, watching a horror movie. When he saw me come in, he casually remarked, "Still not as scary as the Red Jade Bracelet."
"Dad, I won’t turn Ye Wanshuang into a Red Jade Bracelet. I love her—very much."
"I don’t want to inherit your craft either. I’ll work hard and buy a house with Wanshuang in the city. We won’t come back anymore; take care of yourself."
I spoke earnestly, but my father looked indifferent.
"She doesn’t love you at all. She’s only with you for my money."
"If you had nothing, she would definitely leave you."
I hated it when people said Ye Wanshuang didn’t love me. Just because I looked ordinary didn’t mean I didn’t deserve the love of an exceptional woman.
"That’s impossible! Wanshuang loves me very much. She will definitely marry me."
"I don’t want to end up like you, stuck in this mountain valley for life, holding onto that broken bracelet when boredom strikes."
My father suddenly stood up and slapped me across the face. I was stunned; it was the first time he had ever hit me.
"She is your mother, not some broken bracelet."
I fell to the ground, realizing that the bracelet was my mother?
I looked at my father in horror, suddenly understanding why those men always came in threes and left alone.
I also understood why the finished Red Jade Bracelets were always wrapped tightly; they were their women, not meant for others to see.
I returned to my room and began packing my things. I was going to find Ye Wanshuang; I could no longer stay with this terrifying man.
After I finished packing, I turned around and found my father standing behind me, tears glistening in his eyes.
"He Zheng, this is the fate of our Red Jade Bracelet Artisan lineage. The Red Jade Bracelet Artisan is born infatuated, but destined for a life without love. This is the price we pay for greed."
"Only by turning her into a Red Jade Bracelet can she stay by your side forever."
"Do you think the men who come to make Red Jade Bracelets are seeking rebirth? No, they are here to keep their lovers close. Rebirth is just a side effect."
I felt that my father's tears were crocodile tears; I absolutely did not believe him.
As long as I treated Ye Wanshuang well enough, I was sure I could attain the most beautiful love.
As I stepped out of the house, my father called after me, "He Zheng, no matter what happens, you can always come back to me; I will help you."
I took several transfers before finally reaching the city.
Throughout the journey, I called Ye Wanshuang over thirty times, but no one answered. I sent her messages as well, but received no replies.
I cried all the way, desperately wanting Ye Wanshuang to comfort me.
By the time I arrived at Ye Wanshuang's building, it was already evening.
Her home was brightly lit, and through the window, I could see her reflection alongside another man.
I clutched my suitcase tightly, still holding onto a sliver of hope—maybe that man was her cousin? Or a friend? She wasn’t answering my calls because she was busy with something else.
With my last bit of hope, I knocked on the door. The man who opened it was casually dressed, tall and somewhat impatient-looking.
As soon as he saw me, he smiled and called into the house, "Wanshuang, your little follower is here."
I am not some little follower; I will prove myself. No wait, I've already decided not to become a Red Jade Bracelet anymore; I've lost my chance.
Ye Wanshuang emerged from her room in a bathrobe, frowning as she looked at me.
"I told you I would come find you! Why did you come here on your own?"
As soon as I saw Ye Wanshuang, all my grievances surged to the surface. I rushed over to hug her, tears streaming down my face uncontrollably.
"Wanshuang, you're all I have left."
But Ye Wanshuang pushed me away, disdainfully wiping the tears I had smeared on her. Yet, her gaze secretly darted towards that man.
"Wanshuang, who is he?" I questioned, hoping for a reasonable explanation from her.
Ye Wanshuang didn't answer; instead, she shoved me and my luggage out the door.
"I have guests at home; find somewhere else to stay."
I clung tightly to her arm.
"Wanshuang, I don't have much money. I've severed ties with my father, and I don't want to be a Red Jade Bracelet anymore. You're all I have."
Upon hearing this, Ye Wanshuang's expression changed immediately.
"He Zheng, are you crazy? Your only value lies in your family's craft. If you've cut ties with your father and given up the Red Jade Bracelet, how will you support me?"
I was taken aback; she hadn't said this when she was pursuing me.
"Wanshuang, didn't you say you liked my sincerity and kindness? Didn't you say that inner qualities are more important than outer appearances?"
Ye Wanshuang pulled me in front of a mirror.
"Look at yourself; what about you is worth my affection? Don't talk to me about inner beauty; that doesn't matter."
I cried with tears streaming down my face, gripping her arm tightly.
"I'm not leaving; I want to be with you. As long as I'm good to you, you'll come to like me again."
The man grew impatient watching our argument and put on his coat, preparing to leave. Ye Wanshuang panicked.
"Li Qiang, don't go! I'll get rid of her right away. I don't love her at all."
Ye Wanshuang followed Li Qiang out, and I waited at her door for three whole days and nights.
During these days, I kept wondering what qualities Ye Wanshuang had that were worth loving beyond her pretty face. In the end, I realized she seemed to have no redeeming qualities at all.
I told myself to stop loving her and go home to find my father. But a voice in my head kept saying: You must love Ye Wanshuang; if you miss her, you'll never find love again in your life.
Unable to control myself, I stayed behind. I cleaned Ye Wanshuang's room thoroughly and cooked her favorite dishes for every meal. I waited for her return.
Ye Wanshuang still refused to answer my calls. Occasionally she'd reply with a message asking if I had left yet. When she found out I hadn’t gone anywhere, she ignored me completely.
On the fourth morning, while I was still asleep, laughter from a man echoed from Ye Wanshuang's room.
I got up and made breakfast for three people, even preparing a bowl of ginger tea for that man.
It wasn't until noon that the two of them finally emerged from the room.
He was not the Li Qiang I had seen before.
Ye Wanshuang pulled the man to sit down and coldly looked at me, saying, "If you’re not leaving, you might as well stay. Consider yourself a free servant."
I bit my lip and replied, "I am your fiancé; I don’t agree to the breakup."
The man sipped the ginger tea I had just made and mocked, "I've seen fools, but I've never seen one as foolish as you."
Ye Wanshuang gently stroked his hair.
"He's just a waste; how can he compare to you, Zhao Gang?"
After finishing their meal, Ye Wanshuang sent me out to buy condoms, insisting on the largest size available.
I returned in a daze with what I thought was the right size, only to have Ye Wanshuang slap me across the face.
"I asked for the largest size! What good is this small one?"
Wiping my tears away, I turned and went back out to buy another pack. As I walked along the street, I cried, wondering why I had to love someone who didn’t love me back. I didn’t want to like Ye Wanshuang anymore; I wanted to go home.
But that voice in my head echoed again: You must love her, bring her home, turn her into a Red Jade Bracelet, and she will be able to stay by your side forever.
I mechanically murmured to myself, "Yes, turn her into a Red Jade Bracelet and keep her by my side."
I cried as I called my father.
“Dad, I want to make a Red Jade Bracelet.”
My father sounded pleased.
“Good, bring Ye Wanshuang and her lover back.” Standing in front of Ye Wanshuang's house, my palms were sweaty, but I steeled myself and said, “Wanshuang, my dad and I have made up. He said as long as you’re willing to marry me, he doesn’t mind you bringing other men to live in our house. He’ll cover all expenses.”
Upon hearing this, Ye Wanshuang’s lips immediately curled into a smile, looking like a sly fox. She leaned in and gently pecked my cheek, her tone lighthearted: “See? I knew you’d figure it out. I'll call them right now.”
“I’m practically winning at life! In the future, I'll drive luxury cars and live in big villas; my father-in-law will give me money to spend, and I'll have a bunch of men around me—life couldn’t be better,” she said while pulling out her phone to dial.
She rented a seven-seater car and called five men who surprisingly all knew each other’s existence. Watching Ye Wanshuang’s exquisite face filled me with mixed emotions. She truly had a knack for making all men fall for her; but from now on, she would never have another chance like this again.
I sent my dad a message informing him that Ye Wanshuang was bringing five male companions over. In my memory, every man who made a Red Jade Bracelet only brought one woman and one man; I had never seen a scenario with one woman and five men before.
My dad seemed excited and quickly replied: “Son, you’re amazing! You’ll have the best Red Jade Bracelet in the world; hurry and bring them over!”
When we arrived at the foot of the mountain, we got out of the car. My dad had said that no strangers were allowed in our house. This time, Ye Wanshuang automatically took on the role of hostess and began directing my dad on what to do.
I couldn't help but smirk inwardly, though my face betrayed nothing. She thought she was the mistress of this house, unaware that soon she would become part of the Red Jade Bracelet.
“Dad, arrange a room for each of them, five in total, right next to mine and He Zheng's bedroom. Make a schedule—one person each day from Monday to Saturday. I’ll take Sundays off.”
My father didn’t respond; he simply laid out a feast and brought out the fine wine Uncle Wang had given us last time.
“Let’s eat first. Afterward, I’ll make the arrangements.”
Ye Wanshuang sat at the head of the table, her arms draped around two men, laughing charmingly.
My eyes stung, and my heart felt heavy. Why didn’t she love me? How could she not love me? Those men only desired her beauty; only I loved her entirely, even knowing she was a selfish woman. I still loved her.
Neither my father nor I touched our chopsticks, watching as the six of them feasted heartily.
Before long, they all passed out.
My father grabbed one in each hand and dragged them upstairs.
The room was tidy, filled with tools for making the Red Jade Bracelet.
I opened the Leather Book and read carefully line by line. No wonder my father said that making a Red Jade Bracelet was scarier than a horror movie.
A horror movie couldn’t compare to even a fraction of what the Red Jade Bracelet entailed.
“Before we begin, I must tell you the origin of the Red Jade Bracelet.”
Fifteen hundred years ago, an ancestor of the He Family was ordinary in appearance and timid in nature. His wife betrayed him, their son was killed by her, and he nearly lost his life at her hands as well. In desperation, he decided to save himself.
He climbed the mountain with deep reverence, praying to Blood Leech for a handsome face, endless wealth, and that his beloved would always stay by his side while all the men around his wife would disappear.
Blood Leech told him that what he sought was the hardest thing to obtain in this world; one could not have both love and money. But it could be achieved in another way.
He agreed and became a Red Jade Bracelet Artisan. In exchange, the Artisan would only ever love one person throughout his life, regardless of whether that person was good or bad. However, the Artisan would never receive love in return from that person but could keep them by their side forever.
Upon returning home, he drugged his wife and her lover. He turned his wife into a Red Jade Bracelet—a living Red Jade Bracelet.
He used her lover as nourishment to sustain his Red Jade Bracelet.
He made a fortune and spent his lonely moments whispering sweet nothings to his wife. When she was happy, the Red Jade Bracelet would glow softly; when she was sad, it would dim into darkness.
As he grew old, he passed this craft down to his son. On the day he died, the Red Jade Bracelet shattered into a pool of blood.
“The Red Jade Bracelet is alive; Ye Wanshuang will always be by your side. Her life is tied to yours; she will only die when you do.”
My heart raced with turmoil; my mother had been alive all along—living in my father's safe.
So every time I touched her and felt warmth, it was real; she knew I was her son.
“What about Mom? Do you still love her?”
Tears silently streamed down my father's deep-set eyes.
"I love her, more than anyone else does."
He handed me a yellowed old photograph, in which a woman with delicate features and a gentle smile resembled the beauty of Ye Wanshuang.
"She came to our shop to buy jade, and I was captivated by her at first sight."
"Your grandfather said, if you like her, go after her. But I didn't dare; back then, I was just like you—so ordinary that I could be lost in a crowd."
No wonder my father always said I resembled him; it turned out he looked just like this when he was young.
"I took out the best jade from my collection and gave it to her, half selling, half gifting, just to see her more often. She knew I had good stuff, so she often came to the shop."
"One day, she said to me, 'Let's get married.' She brought a wedding dress from the big city and a sparkling diamond ring."
"She assured me that I could trust her completely. In the ancestral hall at the foot of the mountain, I entrusted myself to her. It was then that I conceived you."
"After we got married, she would ask for money every few days, claiming it was for purchasing goods. She would return every ten days or so, take the money, and leave without ever bringing back any merchandise."
"When you were about to be born, I tried to send her a message through someone, but it vanished into thin air. In my desperation, I hitched a ride to the city. It turned out she had a home there—a big courtyard with a husband and children."
"They laughed and discussed how I was a fool; as long as I was around, they wouldn't need to work and would have endless money."
"At that moment, I suddenly understood what your grandfather meant—there's no woman in this world who would love me, not even your grandmother."
"The fate of the Red Jade Bracelet Artisan is to turn the one he loves into a bracelet."
"Let’s begin; she will always be by your side. You will live and die together!"
Tears blurred my vision. I had successfully kept Ye Wanshuang by my side, but she did not love me and would forever hate me. I was destined to spend my life with someone who did not love me.
This was the fate of the Red Jade Bracelet Artisan—why must this be our destiny?
Just as I began to feel rebellious thoughts rising within me, that voice echoed again in my ears, telling me this was my fate: to create countless Red Jade Bracelets and give rebirth to countless disheartened men.
I lowered my head and continued polishing the Red Jade Bracelet.
My father watched me from beside with a complex expression in his eyes.
"The nourishment for Ye Wanshuang is abundant; you can take your time and don’t need to rush. When I made a Red Jade Bracelet back then, it only took me one day and night; yet here you are taking so long—it’s making me somewhat anxious."
My father stood beside me, his tone calm as he comforted me, "Don't rush, take your time. Your Red Jade Bracelet will be a unique piece of art. You'll be very happy; I truly envy you."
On the seventh day, I finally finished it. My face was pale, and I stumbled out of the basement, clutching the Red Jade Bracelet.
My father turned his back to me and handed me a wooden box.
"Put it in there; I don't want to see it."
I carefully locked the Red Jade Bracelet inside the box and then collapsed into bed, sleeping for a full three days.
Three days later, I finally regained my energy. I secured the doors and windows, drew the curtains, sat at the table, and gently opened the wooden box to take out the Red Jade Bracelet.
I closed my eyes, just like every night before, with Ye Wanshuang nestled in my arms.
Swaying in the wind, rising with the waves, soaring in the sky.
"Wanshuang, we will never be apart again. You are mine forever, belonging only to me."
As I exhaled my last breath, I stood up satisfied, watching the Red Jade Bracelet glimmer softly under the light.
I brought over a basin of warm water and carefully cleaned the Red Jade Bracelet, imitating my father's method.
"Wanshuang, do you like it?"
"I know you don't. But this is my best revenge on you."
The Red Jade Bracelet remained silent, lying quietly in my palm.
I gently stroked its smooth surface, a bitter smile creeping onto my lips.
"Wanshuang, you hate me, don't you? That's fine; I don't mind."
"Because you'll never be able to do anything to me. We live together; we die together. You'll always be trapped in this box."
"This is the price of betraying me."
After saying that, darkness enveloped me, and I collapsed to the ground. That voice returned again—deep and cold as if it came from deep underground.
"You love her; you love her very much. You made her into a Red Jade Bracelet—not out of hatred but out of love."
I was pregnant; by the time I found out, I was already three months along.
I touched my flat belly and silently prayed that it would be a boy who wouldn't follow in my footsteps.
My father seemed to see through my thoughts and coldly said, "Stop dreaming. A Red Jade Bracelet Artisan can only have one child in their lifetime, and it can only be a girl."
A new customer arrived at our home—brought by Uncle Wang—two men and a woman.
As soon as Uncle Wang walked in, he exclaimed in surprise at my father, "Wow! You've got help? Who's this young man? He's even more handsome than you!"
"Uncle Wang, don’t you recognize me? I'm He Zheng!"
Uncle Wang circled around me several times, his eyes filled with amazement.
"You're really handsome! Even more so than your dad. It seems your Red Jade Bracelet is quite impressive. Can I borrow it for a few days? I'll pay a high price."
I shook my head, my tone firm. "No, it's mine alone."
Having made the Red Jade Bracelet for the second time, I had become much more skilled. In just three days, I completed another one.
Ye Wanshuang had an ordinary appearance, and the Red Jade Bracelet I crafted was also quite plain.
I felt a bit disappointed.
My dad patted my shoulder, his voice calm. "Your first Red Jade Bracelet is probably the peak of your life. This second one isn't bad either."
He didn't tell me that when I could truly make the Red Jade Bracelet independently, he would be leaving this world.
When I found him, he had already lost his breath. He returned to his original form, so ordinary it broke my heart.
His Red Jade Bracelet had turned into a pile of rotting flesh, a foul stench filling the air, and I couldn't help but gag.
My dad left me a letter. In it, he said he had tried to save me, hoping I could live a normal life, but he had failed.
He also tried to save himself, countless times wanting to throw away that Red Jade Bracelet, but every time he had that thought, a voice in his head would tell him that he must love her and could only love her.
My dad said if he really couldn't save himself, he should just let nature take its course. He hoped I would survive, but he was freed; he had long been fed up with this twisted life.
Red Jade Bracelet Artisans are human too; they can distinguish between good and evil. We understand that those who are not worthy of love ultimately should not be kept.
My dad truly understood me. From the moment I turned Ye Wanshuang into a Red Jade Bracelet, I kept wondering why we should continue this abnormal craft.
I wanted a normal life; I wanted my children to have a normal life as well.
Suppressing my nausea and discomfort, I went to the hospital for a sterilization procedure. I would have no descendants, and thus the legacy of the Red Jade Bracelet Artisan would come to an end.
By the time I returned to the mountain, night had fallen.
As I passed by the ancestral hall, a cold female voice suddenly echoed.
"He Zheng, come in."
I looked around; there was no one in sight. Thinking I was imagining things and about to continue up the mountain, the voice called out again.
"He Zheng, come into the ancestral hall."
I turned on my flashlight and bravely stepped into the dark hall.
The towering Blood Leech seemed to sit on the stone platform; though it was merely a clay sculpture, I saw an eerie vitality emanating from it.
"He Zheng, you have violated our agreement. You have enjoyed my gifts without fulfilling your obligations. I will punish you."
I looked around, trying to find the source of the voice, but I found myself alone in the ancestral hall.
The voice of Blood Leech echoed in my ears, laced with mockery: "Stop searching; a mere mortal like you could never see me."
"Now, kneel and repent to me, then find a woman and ensure she becomes pregnant."
I had long resolved to break this curse, even at the cost of my life.
"I will not kneel, nor will I make anyone pregnant again. If you are displeased, then go ahead and kill me."
I turned to leave, and Blood Leech let out an angry hiss behind me.
"You dare defy my command? You will pay dearly for this."
I headed straight home and slept until dawn. As expected, Blood Leech did not kill me; perhaps it was incapable of doing so.
I took out the Red Jade Bracelet and put it on my wrist. The bracelet showed no reaction.
Carrying the Red Jade Bracelet, I walked back to the ancestral hall. Sunlight poured onto it, causing the bracelet to tremble violently as if it feared something.
Suddenly, I understood; the Leather Book had stated that the Red Jade Bracelet must be kept safe—not because it might be seen by others, but because it could not be exposed to light.
I held the Red Jade Bracelet toward the sunlight, and my mind began to blur as if something was controlling me. I bit down hard on my hand, instantly snapping back to clarity.
With determined strides, I approached the ancestral hall.
When I placed the Red Jade Bracelet in the center of the hall, it had become soft like a puddle of mud.
"Blood Leech, come out!"
No one responded, but I could feel a chilling gaze fixed upon me. The true Blood Leech would never treat its followers this way.
I drew a knife and pointed it at the Red Jade Bracelet, coldly stating, "If you don’t come out now, I’ll chop this bracelet into pieces."
"Don't... I'm... here."
Blood Leech's voice sounded weak and feeble, as if it were gravely injured.
A wave of nausea washed over me as I looked at the Red Jade Bracelet with disgust, finally grasping its true nature.
"Everyone inside each Red Jade Bracelet is you, isn't it? They have long since died!"
There was no response; I directly sliced open the surface of the Red Jade Bracelet.
"Stop! I command you!"
"I'm about to undergo my tribulation. Once I become an immortal, I can give you anything you desire."
I scoffed inwardly: someone as vile as you thinks they deserve to become an immortal?
I pressed the knife down further.
"Ah—"
"Tell me the truth about the Red Jade Bracelet."
"I'll tell you! I am a Blood Leech. The Heavenly Dao does not allow Blood Leeches to become immortals, claiming we are too filthy."
"I accidentally drank a drop of celestial water that fell from an immortal, which gave me the chance to cultivate. But I have no magical power; I can only control through my spirit. That's when I thought of borrowing Yang energy to supplement my own. The Red Jade Bracelet is the medium for this borrowing."
"The Red Jade Bracelet Artisan's Red Jade Bracelet is the mother bracelet. Through the mother bracelet, I can traverse between each Red Jade Bracelet. When those men desire a Red Jade Bracelet, I enter their Red Jade Bracelet through the mother bracelet."
"I siphon their Yang energy to aid my cultivation. Men who have been severely wounded possess the most Yang energy. I temporarily expend some of my spiritual power to give them a new lease on life, making them increasingly dependent on the Red Jade Bracelet."
"When they die, I will reclaim all the spiritual power I previously gave them in one go. They will revert to their original selves."
"Men who have used the Red Jade Bracelet do not live past 45 years old. Especially the Red Jade Bracelet Artisans; their Yang energy is the strongest, and I prioritize siphoning from them."
"After an artisan is replaced, I will enter the new artisan's Red Jade Bracelet. The old artisan will die immediately."
I pressed the dagger deeper; over a thousand years, how many men had he harmed?
"Ah—I've told you everything! Don't kill me! Once I become an immortal, I'll dissolve our contract."
I picked up the Red Jade Bracelet and left. The Blood Leech let out a sigh of relief and said, "That was close; I almost died."
I placed the Red Jade Bracelet under the sunlight and stabbed down fiercely.
"Ah ah ah—you're insane! You'll die too!"
For my own selfish desires, I deserve to die.
From this day forth, there will be no more Red Jade Bracelet Artisans in this world, and no man will be exploited again.
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