Chapter 9
Second brother, what happened to your eyes? Can you still see anything? What did the doctor say?
It no longer makes any difference to Anu, regardless of who it is
He laughed out loud. "I haven't heard about this, nor do I mind. Besides, with someone by your side to keep you warm, don't you feel a bit better?"
She summoned the greatest courage of her life and humbly expressed her wishes
In light of this, she clearly knew that these events had occurred five or six years ago, yet she still felt compelled to ask him if he had been injured at that time and where he had been hurt
He ... ... in order to protect the southern border of the Jiangshan, and to prevent the Xiao family name from being ridiculed by future generations as mere mortals, he ... ... he resolutely harmed her first, so that in the future, he would not have to worry about raising a tiger after she awakens.
She opened the bamboo gate and saw the lower half of a figure appearing behind the carriage, causing her to pause in her steps. Just by looking at the lower half, she could tell it was definitely not Fifth Brother, as it was a girl!
Her eyes were wide open, making every effort to keep the tears rolling in her eye sockets, preventing them from spilling out and soaking his clothes
There is not just one divine being, but everyone has scars on their faces? He was suspicious.
In this eye mask, the eyeballs are already gone; the right eye is sometimes clear and sometimes blurred, and it is uncertain when it will become completely blind. The doctor is also powerless. He waited for a while, but not receiving the expected response, he asked: "A Nu, do you not ask why?"
"Isn't this a matter of course? The Xu siblings number exactly six. Although Xu Liu had to pretend to leave under the watchful eyes of the royal family in Nanlin, as long as you are alive, you will carry our surname. " His breath was slightly heavy, and his tone was laced with disdain. "If they don't want you, it's because they are blind. The Xu family certainly wants you! Not only do they want you, but you must also bear the Xu surname both before and after marriage!"
"Second brother, be careful." The faint sound reached her keen ears
He is not wrong; at that moment, he felt that he did not care enough for her, and naturally, he would not invest too much concern. This is a common human sentiment. She understands this now, but... she would rather let things continue as they are than be made to wait for this moment.
Anu does not move
"Second brother and fourth sister both sacrificed themselves for the South, why ask why?" She said hoarsely, carefully holding his hand. "In the future, Anu will protect second brother and fourth sister, and take care of them."
She remained silent for a long time, and suddenly smiled.
He trembled as he touched the bite mark on his arm, a mark he never allowed the princess to touch, not even during their intimate moments. It was inflicted by a fierce wind on the day of his father's passing. Her pleas for help, her hatred, and even her confusion were all etched into this wound
"There is no need to protect me," Xu Si said coldly from the side. "Am I missing all four limbs? It is just one arm; can I not use my left hand to wield a knife?"
The sky was still dark, and she had not been asleep for long. ... She realized that her position had changed, her whole body curled up like a shrimp, trembling, with a reassuring heartbeat in her ears ... ! ... Her eyes widened ? ! Was Fifth Brother holding her while sleeping ?
It is not so. Your voice is indeed quite different from before, and Lao Wu has mentioned it to me as well. You... have suffered.
Xu Er began with an introduction, and the subsequent conversation flowed much more smoothly. He lightly cleared his throat twice and said
Fifth brother! Fifth brother! Second brother and Fourth sister are still here, what about father, eldest brother, and Third brother? Are they also...
Xu Liefeng shifted slightly to the left, feeling the texture of the warm mat, which was quite soothing, presumably brought back by Fifth Brother this time... Usually, in the afternoons, he would do some rough work in front of the door, and she would sit on the cold ground beside him, helping to carve wood. Did Fifth Brother notice that too?
In the darkness, his voice was warm like a spring, spreading throughout the quiet inner chamber
Many indistinct men and women, the complete terrain before the division of the four countries, and even a scene of a girl kneeling in a temple with a golden sword descending from the sky are present, followed by a scarred figure sitting on the ground in the fierce wind, holding a golden sword in their arms
He remembers every little thing from their years together, every word she said, yet he begins to forget the youthful beauty that the woman from the south does not possess
Xiao Jinfeng
He was slightly moved by her "crossing over," and she was so startled that she immediately stopped. ... She felt herself being held even tighter, and she did not dare to move her position recklessly, for fear that the warm hand on her abdomen might inadvertently shift up or down, which would not be good
Before you left that year, you indeed burned those letters, but it was raining that day, do you remember? I... at that time I was chasing you... Ah Nu, how old were you then? Your riding skills were truly astonishing, making me doubt whether, if there ever comes a day when my eyesight is clear, I would be able to match even half of your abilities
She suddenly recalled that on the steps of the Bachelor Pavilion, the flickering light in his eyes and the heated gaze he cast upon her during the times of fighting and being imprisoned; at that time, she did not understand, but now she comprehends everything, she understands it all.
Xu Er pretended to be a man who does not shed tears, allowing the moisture to linger on his face. After pondering for a long time, he asked:
Has Anu sought medical attention over the years? I observe that not every young lady behaves this way
From beginning to end, the fierce wind is merely the fierce wind. The Xu people are just the Xu people, all unrelated to the divine beings. He recalled that day when she, with her long silver hair and a pair of eyes that were usually full of anger, looked at him with a loss of spirit. At that moment, he thought to himself that he had wronged her, that he had no choice, that he owed her a great deal, and that he was willing to repay her in the next life, hoping that in the next life she would not let him partake in the royal bounty again
The words spoken by Fifth Brother in the middle were extremely soft, almost a whisper, yet she heard them clearly. She quickly closed her eyes, pretending to be asleep. She dared not think too far ahead, focusing instead on the need to wake up early the next day, to have the meal prepared before Fifth Brother left, so he could take some with him to eat on the way, as she could not let him go hungry
Only then did she remember that there was still a table of dishes, and she hurriedly wiped away her tears. "I will go heat it up again"
The candle is gone... Can Anu do it?
Thanks to your fourth sister for pulling me back, otherwise today I would have lost my life instead of just an eye. Anu, I have already mentioned this matter to Changmu; I had intended to never recall it again, but as a member of the Xu family, you should know the final moments of your own kin
Xu Changmu sighed softly, gently wrapping his arms around her from behind, to prevent the two from breaking down in tears and causing further emotional distress.
Xu Changmu responded with a sound and said to Xu Liefeng: "Let's eat together."
Xu Sipin replied, "He is holding Anu."
Immediately after, she gasped. ... After the girl got off the carriage, her right sleeve was unexpectedly empty ... . ... It seemed somewhat familiar, and in an instant, she stiffened all over, unable to move again
She would rather be his sister than hear those two words from his mouth. All night long, she felt both cold and hot, waking up repeatedly in her dreams, her stomach aching terribly. If she had known that such a day would come, she would not have tormented herself back then, allowing this monthly affliction to take hold; she would have certainly taken good care of herself.
This soup tastes good, and if it can restore Anu to a large extent, I will be very satisfied. Hasn't Anu noticed that your body has become increasingly soft and full?
She has become as hard as the icicles in Beitang during winter
What did Fifth Brother bring back?
He slightly tilted his head and painfully kissed the crown of her hair
She originally intended to turn to the side and ask for more details, but his sudden remark left her momentarily stunned, causing her to stop immediately
Xu Dingping played with her white hair using one hand. "Anu, what do you think about me losing an arm?"
Anu, you have made an extraordinary promise. If you run away halfway and wish to give up, I will not let you off the hook
He took two more steps along the cave wall, and only the shadowy flag and white bones remained on the mural, with nothing else in sight, not even the woman.
So, it turns out that liking someone can be so reassuring, she thought to herself
Indeed, in the future, expanding the family will rely on the second brother. Having ten or twenty children is fine; when you grow old, it is not impossible to have hundreds of descendants.
He touched the eye mask on one side and said calmly:
She really thought about it seriously and smiled, saying: "Then please buy me some embroidery thread. Fifth Brother wants to make winter clothes, and I am truly a novice, but embroidering a pattern is not a problem."
He is aware of what is in the cave of Yunshan. On the way to deliver the military armor, he often recalls the appearance of Lie Feng personally donning the armor to meet the Emperor back in the day. Although she was a young girl, she was able to wear the armor designed by her fifth brother with great elegance and ease, leaving even the Emperor astonished, who hastily approved the production of the military armor.
He expressed mild surprise. "Are you very concerned?"
She was slightly perplexed. When was there a time that did not leave her trembling in pain? Where did this warmth come from
From beginning to end, none of the murals in this cave are related to Xu Liewen of the Xu people
This mural is too blurry and too rough; he cannot discern it at a glance. However, the woman is not the focus. He quickly searches for other murals to see if there are any clues left for deciphering.
Chang Mu could not bear to see Anu looking cold, so he picked her up and sat her on the warm mat Xu Si said this while Xu Liefeng stared wide-eyed
He was filled with dread and alarm
He felt a long-lost tenderness arise in his heart, longing to see her face once more. This time, he intended to firmly etch her image in his memory, never to forget again
Deceive him to cause the death of the woman he loves
Anu also wishes to follow Fifth Brother, walking side by side, capable of protecting him throughout her lifetime. Yet, she ultimately does not dare to express the sentiment of a husband and wife walking together.
They have all left. Xu Er interrupted her. They have all left. I was lucky to be saved by your fourth sister; the three of them... had long anticipated this, so you need not be too upset
Second brother! She threw herself onto the bench, her movement so swift that when her knee hit the ground, it made a sound of impact. Xu Changmu's eyes narrowed slightly, and he quickly averted his gaze.
"What happened?" Xu Er suddenly asked
Xu Changmu said calmly
The cave was dimly lit, but thanks to the ten-year-old candle, he could still see the murals on the cave wall clearly. The ceiling of the cave was extremely high; looking up, the highest point was a pitch-black expanse. He walked along the cave wall, and some of the murals were quite unfamiliar, unlike those his elder sister had shown him before. He took a few steps back to take in the entire mural on this cave wall.
Alright. Anu... please embroider a pattern on each piece of clothing for me
Xu Dingping cast a faint glance at the bamboo fence and wooden house, then swept her gaze over Xu Liefeng at the door, finally resting on her white hair for a moment. Her voice carried a hint of emotion as she said, "Why haven't you opened the door yet"
He pondered for a moment. It is conceivable that this shadow soldier had appeared long before the Four Kingdoms, but for some reason, it ended up in the Western Xuan. The Western Xuan has shadow soldiers, the Great Wei has golden blades, but what about the Southern Lin...? Is it the divine and fierce wind?
The woman in battle attire rides her horse between the two armies, blood flowing freely, illuminating the ground she passes. Is she here to confront the Western Xuan Yin soldiers, or is she a general of the Western Xuan Yin soldiers
She originally thought that he would draw a majestic eagle flying in the sky, along with a little frog running after it on the ground. However, to her surprise, he indeed drew an eagle soaring in the air, with a little frog in its beak.
She did not raise her head and spoke softly
I shall obey your command; unless it is the royal family, no one will step into the cave even a single step
As Xu Changmu supported Xu Er while passing by her, who was still in a state of rigidity, he leaned down and softly said to her
I ... ... " Her eyes were slightly dazed, shifting from his face to the painting scroll hanging on the wall behind him
As in the past, when he walked to the bedside and took off his outer garment, she had already burrowed into the quilt, lying comfortably.
Xu Er then said
After he calmed down, he gently stroked her silvery long hair, which felt similar to that of a young person. How could it have turned out like this? ... Regarding Nanlin ... ... She should also have her share. ... ... As for the Xu people, her lineage should have made every person from Nanlin revere her as a deity, so how did it end up like this?
Suddenly, he came to a stop
"You haven't been in there either? Then why is there a faint light in that cave? Who lit it up?"
Most of the mutilated corpses were buried beneath the sand. I was the first to wake up in pain, sensing that something was amiss; it was too dark, and I had been unconscious for far longer than a moment. Why was it not dawn? I was certain I was not blind. I dug a pit and dragged my second brother to hide inside. The wind and sand kept blowing, and my rational mind told me that there were people moving outside, though I could not see them. As long as it was dark, I would not go out. After a long time, the sky gradually began to brighten, and only then did I carry my second brother away from the battlefield. I was certain I was not blind. I dug a pit and dragged my second brother to hide inside. The wind and sand kept blowing, and my rational mind told me that there were people moving outside, though I could not see them. As long as it was dark, I would not go out. After a long time, the sky gradually began to brighten, and only then did I carry my second brother away from the battlefield. Later, I encountered Chang Mu at the border, and under his arrangement, I temporarily recuperated in a nearby village. She was exceptionally calm, without any excessive emotional expression, leaving Xu Er, who spoke with excitement, and Xu Liu, who listened with tears streaming down his face, momentarily stunned, unable to regain their senses. It was as if a bucket of cold water had been splashed into boiling hot water, causing an immediate shift in emotions that they could not process.
He took a few steps back to observe. On the other side was an ordinary army, not a massive force, the sky was completely dark, and the ground was slightly different. In the midst of the two opposing armies stood a woman in battle robes, her face marked by scars... He felt his heart skip a beat and then sighed in relief; this was not the fierce wind, but someone else.
Do not let her regret time and again, wondering why she has become this way... She does not wish to become a deity, nor does she aspire to be a royal princess; she simply wants to be Xu Liu, just... the person that Fifth Brother holds dear in his heart
With each command, there was an action; Xu Liefeng was exceedingly stiff, and he pushed the door open with great rigidity
The small frog handkerchief she embroidered has always been kept by him, and she smiled sweetly. Her palm gently pressed against his chest, feeling the source of his life, and in that moment, her heart was as tender as a spring, continuously flowing to her limbs and bones
Tonight there are no stars or moon, yet she will not be afraid. She softly said:
Who is this ... ... !
Yin? The Western Xuan Yin Army? He instinctively thought of it. To this day, the Western Xuan Yin Army is known to be an invincible force, yet little is known about the nature of this army, its numbers, or the kind of dark arts it employs
Xu Er responded with a sound, his expression somewhat awkward. After hesitating for a moment, he reached out and touched Xu Liefeng's hair. "Anu, are you... still okay?"
Recently, he has been feeling a bit fearful, as he has started to forget the spirited demeanor and the beautiful, captivating appearance of Lie Feng
"Two... Two older brother..." She trembled all over
Xu Er's mouth twitched slightly. Does he really look like he needs protection from someone?
"Second brother, can't you hear me clearly? I said to speak slowly..." she hurriedly said
His mind was in a state of chaos, and he instinctively walked along the cave wall, glancing at the murals that were beginning to feel familiar
It is not the fierce wind It is not the fierce wind
At times, he truly resented the princess. If she had not revealed this earth-shattering secret to him, he would not have to bear the responsibilities of the royal family and could have simply left with the fierce wind to the territories, how wonderful that would have been
As dawn approached, they arrived! Fang Sanlang and we engaged in battle in waves, with the sandstorm making it nearly impossible to see anyone. The sky showed no signs of light, and we all sensed that something was amiss, yet there was no retreat... Ah Nu, it turns out the Western Xuan Yin soldiers are a light cavalry... Isn't it just a light cavalry? How... the situation has changed dramatically... I thought I had descended into hell... They were torn apart before my eyes. If it weren't for Ding Ping pulling me back in time, today I would have lost not just my eyes, but the head of Xu's second son. How... the situation has changed dramatically... I thought I had descended into hell... They were torn apart before my eyes. If it weren't for Ding Ping pulling me back in time, today I would have lost not just my eyes, but the head of Xu's second son... Ding Ping's arm was also broken in his attempt to save me. When I regained consciousness, I realized that all the Xu family soldiers who had gone into battle were dead.
Her heart was filled with mixed emotions. ... She waited for a long time ... . ... In fact, back then, if Fifth Brother had replied to her, even just with a simple suggestion to see a doctor, she would have been happy for a year and a half. Little did she know that after all this time, she was torturing herself, and he was completely unaware.
I have noticed that in the past two days, you are reluctant to even turn over while sleeping, which I believe is due to the influence of the water element associated with young women. Since this is the case, you need not deliberately turn towards me.
She carefully examined Xu Liefeng, lightly tracing her scar with her fingertip. "Chang Muchu mentioned in his letter that you seemed like an old person, but today in the carriage he said you are doing much better. Aside from your hair color not having darkened, everything else is improving. Except for the scar, how are you different from the old Anu? Anu, the worst is behind you. Do not think about when you will grow old, do not think about not seeing the chubby little boy of the second brother next year. The elder brothers are in their prime, did they not also leave like that? Why do you not think about the present? Anu, the worst is behind you. Do not think about when you will grow old, do not think about not seeing the chubby little boy of the second brother next year. The elder brothers are in their prime, did they not also leave like that? Why do you not think about the present? Do not let the regrets of the third brother and the others happen to you, leaving them unable to regret in time.
If it were only the woman in the corner, viewed from the side as she gazes out of the painting, one might still tenuously claim it to be a fierce wind. However, the woman before him, riding in front of the Western Xuan Yin soldiers, faces him directly, unmistakably!
He encouraged in a slightly hoarse voice, as if he would not give up until he had extracted it.
Is that Yunshan? The mountain in the distance is completely engulfed in white mist, towering high. When gazing from afar, one may have the illusion that this mountain reaches the heavens. No wonder, for hundreds of years, various countries have never doubted that this place is where deities and Buddhas ascend.
She did not dare to move at all, her whole body frozen in the quilt
She closed her eyes, and her somewhat stiff body gradually relaxed; this time, there were no nightmares, and she fell into a deep sleep
Xu Changmu bent down to kiss the soup from the corner of her mouth, leaving Xu Liefeng momentarily stunned. He licked his lips and smiled
I know
She was taken aback and replied, "As long as Fourth Sister is alive, what does it matter if I have one less arm"
When she was last awakened by a nightmare, her body was covered in a light sweat, but her abdomen felt warm, as if the pain had lessened.
"No need, I don't have the time... etc., if possible, I can spare a day and rush over today." He worked extremely quickly, and before long, he took two skilled guards on horseback to Yunshan.
Fifth Brother is a scholar, and ultimately will leave Nanlin, returning to his own path. No matter where your footsteps lead, Anu also ... ...
Hmph, they actually use the name of nonexistent deities to harm you, all for the sake of the throne. You are the most qualified among the three princes to ascend to the throne. If the Emperor's will were to reveal your identity and establish you as the successor Empress, then the other two would be completely cut off from the throne. Therefore, they resort to this method to kill you. It is just unclear whether the one who plotted against you is His Majesty of the Great Phoenix or the King of Xia
"... soft and full..." Is she on the verge of collapse? Isn't Fifth Brother's remark a bit too explicit? Where did he steal this from?
A cart is parked in front of the fence gate of the Xu family
Her cheek nestled warmly against his chest, how could her abdomen also be warm... She quietly reached under her clothing, only to be taken aback. Her top was completely disheveled, lifted up to her chest, and the man's large hand firmly covered her flat abdomen, providing warmth to her body
I had thought that even if the Xu family were completely destroyed, the royal family would still protect you, but to my surprise... your brother and sister actually...
"Oh... is that so?" Xu Er felt somewhat uneasy and cleared his throat. "Chang Mu, I am tired; I would like to rest first"
On that day, the wind was strong, so strong that it almost blew people away. Fang Sanlang arrived in the capital with the imperial edict, ordering the entire Xu family to return to the capital, and all military affairs and military tokens were to be handed over to Fang Sanlang. For many years, the border had always been guarded by the Xu clan, and this complete recall was simply unprecedented. Especially since Xiao Zhou had just submitted the surrender letter, Chang Mu had once said that if one day the Western Xuan sought to take the Southern Lin, they would have to pass through Xiao Zhou. Now was precisely the time to be vigilant; why did Your Majesty summon us back? Although Your Majesty does not favor us, the lowly people, such an edict would not be issued without reason; there must be a cause behind it. We originally planned to return to the capital on horseback the next day to clarify the situation before rushing back to the border, but little did we know... For many years, the border had always been guarded by the Xu clan, and this complete recall was simply unprecedented. Especially since Xiao Zhou had just submitted the surrender letter, Chang Mu had once said that if one day the Western Xuan sought to take the Southern Lin, they would have to pass through Xiao Zhou. Now was precisely the time to be vigilant; why did Your Majesty summon us back? Although Your Majesty does not favor us, the lowly people, such an edict would not be issued without reason; there must be a cause behind it. We originally planned to return to the capital on horseback the next day to clarify the situation before rushing back to the border, but little did we know... they came so quickly. So fiercely!" Xu Er still feels a lingering fear when he thinks back to that day. He tightly grasped Xu Liefeng's hands and gritted his teeth.
Xu Erxian regained his senses, and in his excitement, his right eye became even more blurred, within the blur reflecting Anu's hair color. Indeed, Changmu had mentioned earlier that they were all severely injured individuals, and their emotions should not be too agitated, especially Anu. He heard from Changmu the aged voice of Anu, reminiscent of an old man, leaving him speechless for an entire night.
Your voice...
She stared at him blankly for a moment, then lowered her gaze. "It is ... ..."
He shouted wildly and struck the mural fiercely
Alive ... ... alive. ... ... ... still alive ... . ... Suddenly, she shouted and hurried into the wooden house, tripping over the threshold. Xu Changmu helped Xu Er sit on the bench and turned around in surprise.
I have read all those letters that were not burned. Anu, if I had realized before the coming-of-age ceremony that I had always relied on you and valued you in my heart, I would have read each of your letters one by one, sharing in your joys and sorrows. If I had known in advance that I would fall in love at first sight with a girl who spoke of fire prevention in the bachelor hall, I would have told her family when she was young to love her wholeheartedly, as the transactions between the former emperors and ancestors had nothing to do with her, and to ensure that she never felt a hint of grievance. If I had known that one day she would be harmed by her own siblings to the point of her current state, I would have chased after her that day when she fell from her horse, no matter what, and found a way to take her away, even if she was the little princess of Nanlin, even if at that moment she could not leave Nanlin. He paused and softly continued: "Anu, your fifth brother is selfish; he only cares about those he values and cherishes, and will invest his heart and mind in them. As for everything else, once settled, there is no debt left between us." He softly continued: "Anu, your fifth brother is selfish; he only cares about those he values and cherishes, and will invest his heart and mind in them. As for everything else, once settled, there is no debt left between us."
Xu Liefeng was well aware of her fourth sister's strong personality. Just now, she spoke too quickly. She was about to flatter her a bit when she heard Xu Er say:
Xu Er wanted to ask her: What are you in such a hurry for? It's not like you're rushing to be reborn. But upon seeing her hair color, a chill ran through his heart
Anu, your second brother and fourth sister are still alive
The ascension of deities is a realm that ordinary people, lacking sufficient fortune, cannot enter. Moreover, the late emperor had issued a decree stating that anyone not of royal blood who enters the cave would be executed on the spot, a command that I dare not disobey. The light within the cave is due to a candle that can burn for ten years; every ten years, a mute person is sent in to replace the candle. Upon exiting, because they have seen the sacred object and touched the cave, their eyes are gouged out and their hands are severed. Later, out of compassion, the late emperor instructed that workers should enter with their eyes covered to light the candle.
From beginning to end, she is innocent; it is he who has been deceived
After a day and night of travel, he finally reached the summit of Yunshan Mountain. The peak is heavily guarded, and the general led him all the way to the entrance of the cave
Xu Changmu smiled with his eyes lowered for a long time before finally raising his eyebrows
Anu is quite selfish as well. I care a lot about Fifth Brother..." she said ambiguously, extending her left hand gently from under the blanket to touch the bed. As soon as she touched his hand, he immediately grasped it in return, sending her hand back under the blanket, yet he continued to hold her hand.
Then, he got into bed, sleeping on the outer side. She hesitated for a moment and asked:
She dreamed that she was very old, so old that her two legs were already in the coffin, preparing to breathe her last. Fifth Brother still had a head of shiny black hair as he saw her off. Startled, she woke up and found herself with a head full of white hair lying in the coffin. Fifth Brother, still with his black hair, closed the coffin lid for her. The visitors paying their respects were all friends he had made in various countries. Those friends asked him who she was, and he felt embarrassed to say that she was his wife whom he had rescued from the South, so he could only vaguely say she was his grandmother
It is indeed somewhat strange to hang a scroll painting in the low house of the village, but since Fifth Brother wanted her to arrange this home, she did it according to her own ideas, supporting him by painting a scene of an eagle coexisting with a frog.
Do not make me feel that it is too late, Anu, do not make me feel that it is too late
Upon hearing this, she softly said
Then I carried him away from the battlefield, never to return. What do you think of that
She instinctively pressed down on the bat-shaped cloth hidden securely at her waist, bit her lip, and said clearly
No... a few days ago I felt embarrassed to say it, but since you already know... then... I heard that some men in Nanlin are quite particular about it...
Good ... ... Anu is very well ... ...
Xu Liefeng looked up in surprise, gazing at the rarely excited Xu Er. She saw Xu Er reaching out to touch her, and quickly leaned forward. He intended to touch the thick scar on her nose bridge, but unexpectedly, his hand met her tear-streaked face.
The young woman helped a man out of the carriage with one arm. The man seemed to have difficulty moving and appeared to be unable to see clearly, relying entirely on the support of this young woman and another person on the other side.
With this in mind, he gathered his spirits and resolved that upon returning, he would find a way to recruit troops again and seek wise individuals in Nanlin. Only by breaking the Western Xuan Yin soldiers could he secure Nanlin
No... I just want... as long as I can meet my second brother and see my fourth sister... that would be great...
"Anu!" Xu Er stared at her and said emphatically, "If you consider yourself the sixth of the Xu family, then live well! Here in the Xu family, I have the final say. Your father and brothers have passed away bearing the Xu surname, and I am determined to carry it on! This surname has brought us glory, but it has also brought burdens and death. However, if given another chance, I would still bear the Xu name and go into battle; your father and brothers would also fight! Behind us is Nanlin! We cannot retreat! This surname has brought us glory, but it has also brought burdens and death. However, if given another chance, I would still bear the Xu name and go into battle; your father and brothers would also fight! Behind us is Nanlin! We cannot retreat! The day before the imperial edict arrived, your other brothers had a premonition. Your third brother suddenly came to me and spoke of many family matters. I told him to stop, but he refused. He suddenly mentioned you, asking if you were a bit innocent, and whether he could talk to you when he returned to the capital next time. Does the surname really matter? If it can protect the people of Nanlin, then even if no one knows who is protecting them, they would still be willing. Perhaps, after Xiao Zhou delivered the surrender letter, it was equivalent to opening the gates of Nanlin wide. We were all anxious and could no longer care about those superficial matters. Anu, when you were young in the capital, every time you sent us interesting things from the capital to the border, your letters always subtly hinted that we should care about you. We found it annoying. In these past two years, you have only sent what was needed at the border and mentioned yourself less, which instead made us feel guilty. Ha, this is... you wanted to distance yourself, yet we began to realize we still have a sister... Anu, when you were young in the capital, every time you sent us interesting things from the capital to the border, your letters always subtly hinted that we should care about you. We found it annoying. In these past two years, you have only sent what was needed at the border and mentioned yourself less, which instead made us feel guilty. Ha, this is... you wanted to distance yourself, yet we began to realize we still have a sister..."
Anu's surname is Xu, not Xiao. If one day, Er Ge wishes to adopt the surnames of the four nations, then Anu will also follow Er Ge and adopt each surname in turn.
He smiled again, his expression tinged with affection. "As long as you are healthy, what does it matter whether your hair is black or white? Anu, what do you wish to do at this moment while I am still alive?"
In the future, if... the day of separation truly comes, he would see the cloth as he would see a person, and occasionally, it would suffice for him to reminisce about this little frog that he never had the chance to take away.
Upon hearing this, Xu Changmu turned and left. Xu Liefeng was about to inquire further, but he saw him walk into the room. This time, he did not even ask a question; instead, he laid a warm mat on the cold, muddy ground and effortlessly lifted her body from behind.
It doesn't matter, it's just as delicious! I must eat more, eat a little more every day, who knows, one day I might wake up and look like I have black hair again
She calmed herself down, listening attentively to her surroundings; the breathing above her head was quite normal, as if it had not been disturbed
Xu Changmu calmly placed her hand on Xu Liefeng's back and glanced at Xu Si. Xu Si coolly swept his gaze over her white hair and Xu Er, who should not be subjected to intense emotions, then picked up Xu Er's train of thought and said
Who is this
Xu Dingping nodded. "You and Chang Muxin share the same thoughts, which is good. Regardless of whether your surname is Xu or not, we have already sacrificed so much, and there is no need to lose your second brother as well." After a pause, her voice softened slightly: "What is an arm worth? If it can save Father and Eldest Brother and Third Brother, what does it matter if I lose all my limbs? In the future, you should take the opportunity to persuade him more; there is no need to ponder how to break the Western Xuan Yin soldiers, or how Nanlin has treated you and the Xu family, you understand."
She slowly took out the frog handkerchief from her sleeve, folded it with one hand, intending to sneak it into his wardrobe. However, fearing that he might catch her in the act, she had no choice but to gently slip it between his waist and the bed, hoping that he would discover it when he got up tomorrow and not carelessly lose it again
What is Chang Mu doing hiding behind Anu
Xu Liefeng was taken aback. How could he chase her? On horseback? ... In his childhood, whenever he rode, she would always be by his side. He had always regarded horseback riding as merely a skill to learn, never having galloped before. That day, he chased her on horseback ...? ... How could he pursue her with unclear vision? His words were muddled; did he perhaps fall off the horse at that time?
Xu Si furrowed his brows slightly, extending his intact hand to rub Xu Er's nape, and said coldly
The cave wall murals cannot be altered by human effort; rather, it is as if someone is manipulating the silk, leading one to believe that the fierce winds will destroy the reincarnated deity of the southern descent
The years have passed, and it has become somewhat vague, far less clear than silk cloth. ... Xiao Yuanxia vaguely discerned that this was a depiction of war ... . ... He let out a sound of surprise and leaned closer to examine it carefully; on the flag of a light cavalry unit, the character "Yin" was inscribed.
If it were the latter, at that time... no matter what, he would ensure that Lie Feng was preserved. He would send her to another country to seek a means of survival, so as not to suffer the humiliation after the fall of Nanlin
The general quickly said
Second brother
Does the prince wish to take a look?
Then, why is the appearance of the fierce wind depicted on the silk?
Xu Liefeng wiped away his tears, glanced at Xu Changmu, and said softly: "Eldest Brother is thinking of Anu."
"Anu!" He quickly stepped forward and grabbed the back of her clothing. After she steadied herself with his support, she charged forward again, forcing Xu Changmu to hastily let go, lest her thin top be torn apart by him.
Xu Er was taken aback for a moment and turned to Xu Changmu
She originally thought this was his habit, and she did not pay much attention to it. It turns out... it was for her? In the dark prison, where she could not see her fingers day and night, did he think she would be afraid of the darkness at first sight?
In the darkness, she heard his shallow breaths, and those two blazing lights seemed to rest upon her face, causing her heart to feel slightly warm, slightly heated, slightly cool, and slightly pained
Are you seeking revenge on your second brother? He has not yet recovered, do you want to strangle him?
Xu Liefeng was somewhat taken aback, unable to move. She heard Xu Er say:
Which of the two is more embarrassing? Which one will leave him unable to explain himself in the afterlife?
Xu Changmu stood up and said: "Second brother, are you tired? Look at how we've rushed along the way. If we want to bond, let's rest well and eat enough before we talk. Anu, get up."
In the darkness, he let out a soft sigh
She was completely bewildered, and then she exclaimed in surprise, turning her head to look in his direction... Those letters...
Xu Liefeng leaned out to look and called out: "Fifth Brother is back! Just in time, my rice is ready!" She smiled broadly, just as she brought the last dish to the table, coming out to help move things.
At the same time, Xu Er was knocked by her, and the back of his head struck the wall behind him
She was first taken aback, and then suddenly enlightened. No wonder during these days, regardless of whether there were stars outside at night, he would light a candle on the small table in the inner room, allowing that small flicker of candlelight to shine until it was extinguished at dawn
Xu Liefeng, sitting upright on the bed and shaking out the thin quilt, turned around and asked, "Fifth Brother, what is it?"
She had long been accustomed to the way Fifth Brother carried her like a chick. At first, after walking a few steps, she would become so tired that she had to squat down to catch her breath, and it was always like this that he would carry her back to the room. She did not pay much attention to it, but suddenly meeting Xu Si's gaze made her heart skip a beat. When Fifth Brother let her sit on the warm mat, she hurriedly avoided his support.
Upon hearing this, she immediately lowered her eyes. Unable to conceal it, large tears rolled down directly onto her dress.
From beginning to end ... she was framed by others, she could have lived a carefree life under the protection of the royal family and the Xu family ... it was he who personally pushed her into hell
She tightly embraced Xu Er's waist and refused to let go. "Second Brother! Second Brother! Second Brother!"
The little frog has no wings and cannot catch up, so the eagle carries it along, ensuring that neither of them falls behind
The Emperor has long been kind-hearted, he thought, and replied, "Father Emperor has entrusted you with the most important place in the south, which shows great trust in the general. In the future, I will also ask the general to guard this place. I will go in and take a look." Having said this, he entered with his hands clasped behind his back
Every night, she only needs to think about these things, and as she thinks, she quickly falls asleep. Today is no different, but this time she sleeps lightly, occasionally disturbed by nightmares.
His complexion was pale, and his breathing was rapid. No matter how he thought about it, he could not understand why, since the mural had not the slightest connection to the fierce wind, there was her image on the silk
Now she has probably been buried by Xu Wu
Her heart skipped a beat; she initially wanted him to stop speaking recklessly, but then she thought of how her elder brother and third brother had both passed away in the prime of their lives. Little did she know that the next moment ... ...
"Um, I would like to listen," she said softly
Now, her shoulder occasionally brushes against his, resembling a couple sleeping together... Is it possible that heaven enjoys bartering, requiring one to exchange their most cherished possessions for the things they deeply desire?
Is she very happy that he has returned safely?
The reason I did not let you know that Dingping and I are still alive is that Changmu mentioned you were also struggling on the brink of life and death at that time. If your emotions fluctuate too greatly, it may be extremely harmful to your health
In her heart, she was always anxious and dared not to express her feelings clearly, fearing that once she did, she would turn around and realize that it was merely her unrequited love, a case of self-delusion.
Xu Er nodded. "Well said! You truly are a child of the Xu family!" After hesitating for a moment, he turned his head slightly and said awkwardly, "You must have forgotten the past... It's not that the family doesn't like you, it's just that they feel a bit resentful. But, upon careful consideration, what does it have to do with you..."
The soup has long since cooled, and she has grown tired of it, but now she is drinking the soup and biting into the meat with great enthusiasm. Someone beside her reaches out and lightly taps the pot. "It's cold."
In the past two days, Fifth Brother has not been around, and she has been practicing step by step outside the bamboo fence, astonishingly managing to walk up to 25 laps without stopping... Just a few more days, give her a few more days...
This is truly strange; my eyesight has worsened, yet I can instead calm my mind and discern the deep concern in Anu's tone. How had I never noticed this before?
A sudden jolt ran through his heart, and he hurriedly rushed back to the place he had originally entered. He carefully observed the scarred woman in front of the Western Xuan Yin soldiers, and confirmed that she was the same as the woman sitting in the corner holding a golden knife, indeed!
Xu Changmu followed her gaze and looked at Xu Si. His beautiful eyes narrowed slightly, and after forcing Xu Si to avert her gaze, he sat down cross-legged beside her
Then, shall we change back to our father's surname? From now on, Er Ge will help our family to branch out... we will no longer bear the surname Xu
He stared at the woman holding a golden knife in the mural
Is the Emperor currently alarmed? No matter how it is concealed or disguised, the bloodline of the Xu family will never fade away
"... ... also. You and I are always together." He finally said, with a smile that was hard to discern in terms of emotion. "Tell me what else you want, and I will bring it back for you when I go to the city tomorrow."
Who else will be in this room besides Brother Five
She closed her eyes, feeling that although this month's period caused her cramping pain, she should be able to sleep soundly. Recently, her appetite had improved significantly compared to when she first arrived in the village; tonight, she even ate half a bowl more than Fifth Brother, who looked at her with a smile that seemed to be both amused and incredulous. Indeed, even she was quite surprised; would the old man eat as much as she did?
Xu Liefeng pondered for a moment. "If Fourth Sister takes Second Brother back, I fear you will be sent to the capital, and by then..." The Xiao siblings are waiting in the capital... She was startled and quickly said: "Fourth Sister is doing the right thing!"
"Yes, yes." Xu Liefeng said enthusiastically, "Once Second Brother is fully recovered, we will carefully choose for him. Whatever Second Brother likes, we will go find it! By next year, there will be a chubby little Second Baby coming out!"
"Anu, write to me again," she chuckled, avoiding the topic. "Fifth Brother, we are together every day, so why write letters?"
Where is her grave? It must be buried in Nanlin! If one day, the Western Xuan's ghostly soldiers truly break through the capital like a hot knife through butter, she would be buried in the territories affiliated with Western Xuan, and he would never wish to see such a scene occur
Well... actually, Fifth Brother does not need to share the same bed with her; is he afraid she might walk in her sleep? She still remembers when she was young, lying on Fifth Brother's bed, and he always maintained a deliberate distance. There were even a few times when she woke up to find a rolled-up thin blanket between them, which made her both angry and annoyed
The mural beside him depicts the woman sitting in the corner, holding a golden knife, gazing indifferently at the turmoil of the outside world.
Anu, in the future, when we find a good doctor in the Great Wei to cure you, we will walk together again. At that time, you will embroider patterns on each of my garments.
He remembers that to this day she no longer knows where she is buried, hating him until death! Hating him!
He was taken aback and turned his face away. After a long while, he said flatly
Fifth brother... that... has come... have you been put in a difficult position these past two days, sleeping on the floor? Fortunately, it is summer, so you won't catch a cold.
Alright, Anu, tomorrow morning I will go borrow from Auntie again, for now, let's make do with what we have tonight
"No..." She quickly let go, feeling at a loss, her gaze lingering back and forth between Xu Er and Xu Si. Finally, she tightly grasped the corner of Xu Er's robe, turned her head to look around, and saw Xu Changmu, revealing the happiest smile she had shown in a long time. She said with a smile:
In his mind, only that elderly woman from that day remained, devoid of the former splendor... Until her death, she would never forgive his betrayal
From another historical perspective, rather than saying that the Xu people have the ability to defend the southern border, it is more accurate to say that they are quite skilled in warfare. She is exactly like the woman depicted in the mural; it is evident that she is a reincarnated deity. In the end, my father has grown old, which is why he could not bring himself to sever the bloodline, leaving her with a life.
Xu Erpiao turned his head
Is the cave wall real, or is the silk real
Xu Er's face twitched. How does this phrase "branching out" sound like something a pig would do? In the past, did he use this tone when he and the other brothers looked forward to branching out? Is he here to take revenge now? Is he being too calculative?
He will not regret it, nor can he regret it. He has enjoyed the royal family's blessings for over twenty years; how could he betray the royal family? He does not desire the Xiao family's world, yet he must protect the Xiao family's world; he does not regret it
Xu Liefeng watched the two of them leave, and when she turned back, she was taken aback, saying: "Fourth Sister, why are you looking at me like that?" She made a great effort not to glance at Fourth Sister's empty sleeves. Fourth Sister had a cold and somewhat proud personality; if she were to show sympathy at this moment, she would surely become furious.
She smiled with her eyes narrowed and said, "Fifth Brother, I... I never knew that I could make someone fall in love at first sight. I... I have also never experienced falling in love at first sight with anyone."
So it turns out that he has been paying attention to her all this time; she thought he was trying to come up with ways to make her, this little servant, work harder.
He suddenly pulled her up, and Xu Er quickly grabbed her hand
"There is no ... ... there is no ... ..." Xu Liefeng choked, saying: "Anu wants ... ... my parents do not like me ... ... there is no need to force ... ... as long as Anu likes you all, that is enough ... ... Second Brother, Second Brother ... ..."
I can do it. If I am afraid of such a trivial matter, how can I be considered a member of the Xu family?
Now that the divine being has taught him to kill, even with the golden knife and the ghost soldiers present, how can he possibly destroy the Four Kingdoms
The vast sea has turned into mulberry fields; what was once of great concern is now merely a trivial matter in his eyes. As long as the living can continue to live, that is sufficient
In these days, Nanlin is suffering from the pressure of the Western Xuan Yin army. Xiao Yuanxia fears that time is running out and is making every effort to promote the "Military Armor Improvement Plan" submitted by Xu Changmu, compelling the Minister of Finance to produce funds... to build military armor that can protect the limbs at the fastest speed. He even decided to produce armor for horses as well, fearing that Nanlin's finances will be tight for the next few decades... if by then the name of Nanlin has not disappeared from this continent.
The gentle and shallow light flows out from beneath Xu Changmu's half-lowered eyelashes. Her chin lightly rests against her hairline, and her silvery hair, whether in daylight or darkness, is deeply imprinted in his eyes and heart.
He suddenly felt a chill all over his body, retreating several steps until he stopped against the wall. His hands trembled, and eventually, he could no longer stand and had to slide down to sit on the ground
At this moment, he personally led the troops to oversee the delivery of military armor to the border. On the return journey, he suddenly saw this mountain
It turned out that among everyone, the strongest was Fourth Sister, who was reflecting in her heart. When Xu Si went to the adjacent wooden house to take care of Xu Er, she approached the table and looked at the pot of chicken soup
Only... He smiled bitterly in his heart... Excluding a reincarnated deity, the possibility of a deity seizing the world is nipped in the bud, but there is still the struggle among mortals... Nánlín has been too comfortable for too long; the royal court officials all believe that Nánlín will not perish, that the fortunes of the Nánlín state will flourish and never fade, with the prominent Fang family at the borders, Nánlín will not perish...? Is he too clear-headed...? These people have become accustomed to clinging to the powerful, living a life of ease, fearing that one day when the Fang family falls, they will just switch to another, one after another. Nánlín has been too comfortable for too long; the royal court officials all believe that Nánlín will not perish, that the fortunes of the Nánlín state will flourish and never fade, with the prominent Fang family at the borders, Nánlín will not perish...? Is he too clear-headed...? These people have become accustomed to clinging to the powerful, living a life of ease, fearing that one day when the Fang family falls, they will just switch to another, one after another... Even now, he is somewhat confused; is it better for the deities to unify the four nations, causing Nánlín to disappear, or for the mortal nation of Xīxuán to destroy Nánlín?
There is no need for that either. For now, let's just eat casually, and you can showcase your culinary skills later. Xu Changmu helped Xu Er up and noticed that Xu Er seemed to want to say something but hesitated. He said calmly, "By next spring, we will leave Nanlin and never return. I have already lost three loved ones in order to protect Nanlin, and I do not wish to see anyone else perish in this place."
Xu Changmu stepped forward, intending to help her up. "Anu, get up and speak; you cannot kneel on the cold ground."
She felt his other arm wrap around her back, enveloping her entire body in his warmth