Chapter 3, Life is full of partings

At dawn, Master Zhang took his leave. For the following ten days, Su Lili quietly remained in the shop. Yu Fei was very silent, following Su Lili like a little dog abandoned by its owner, seeking out its master. Su Lili, being soft-hearted, treated him sincerely and kindly.

Su Liliqi said: "Who is this? You don't want others to have a chance at rebirth."

Master Zhang said: "Young Master, my rheumatism has flared up again, and I need to take two days off. The mold for today's work has been prepared, and there are some rough spots; just let the wood be sanded down with sandpaper."

Qi Fengxiang sat down on the stool that had been dusted off by the shopkeeper, just about to speak, when Mu Tou suddenly said: "We ordered some pastries at the snack shop at the street corner; they should be ready by now. How about I go fetch them?" With a flick of his garment, he stood up and left.

Qi Fengxiang said with a faint smile: "How do you know that they will leave after listening to your words?"

He looked at Su Lili and timidly said: "My name is Yu Fei"

Qi Fengxiang handed over the menu, saying, "I apologize for interrupting your enjoyment; allow me to treat you to this meal today"

Veins faintly surfaced on the wooden forehead. After Qi Fengxiang left, he said with a stern face to Su Lili: "Money is not so easy to extort."

*

Jiang Qiudi, with her carved bow and fine horse, exudes a spirited demeanor, yet remains composed and reserved, merely placing the embroidered brocade on the table and standing silently beside it

Su Lili had no choice but to get onto the carriage, which was quite spacious and furnished with a complete set of writing materials. The pale-faced scholar offered a slight bow and said, "I am Ying Wen. We met briefly last time and did not have the chance to exchange names. Might I ask if your surname is Su?" Su Lili thought to herself, last time I hurried you away, so of course you wouldn't know my name, but she simply replied, "Yes, you are too polite, Young Master Ying."

Su Lili picked up her chopsticks and said, "The guest we just invited couldn't finish the meal, so they packed it up, saving me the trouble of cooking for the next two days"

The wooden shoulder flashed, evading his hand, and a finger pointed towards the vital point in the center of the chest. The two exchanged over ten moves in an instant, and Qi Fengxiang leaped back, laughing as if he had caught the scent of prey, "It has been three years since we last met, I almost didn't recognize you. Your bad temper remains unchanged, but your skills have not diminished."

Su Lili did not have time to take a closer look; she turned around and swung the kitchen knife wildly as if in a desperate frenzy. Behind her, the chaotic sound of hooves rushed forward, and the shadow of the knife flickered before her eyes. Suddenly, a whoosh of wind sounded by her ear as a long arrow flew past her face, piercing straight into the throat of a fleeing soldier in front of her. The man let out a terrible scream and fell towards her.

Master Zhang stood up with the support of the wooden board, saying, "Wood, lend an old man a hand." Wood stopped sawing and helped him to his feet. Since he was supporting him, he assisted him slowly out. Once the two had exited the backyard courtyard, Su Lili looked at their retreating figures, feeling somewhat suspicious. She set down her paint palette and quietly followed them out.

The old man taught me to cut along the grain of the wood, as cutting against it is prone to mistakes. With that, he walked inside

Su Lili smiled awkwardly and said, "Brother Qi has misunderstood, it is truly a misunderstanding"

Su Lili smiled faintly and said, "Alright, what is there that cannot be done"

Su Lili shook her head, "Not everyone can be a traitor to the Lu Du Kingdom; this price is already quite low."

Master Zhang pulled the child closer and said gently, "This sister and the old man are both good people, do not be afraid." The child was wearing a coarse cloth garment, yet their skin was delicate and fair.

That esteemed Grand Master Shijun usurped power, annihilating the royal family and its kin; yet his appetite for destruction remained unquenched. He paraded through the streets, executing anyone who displeased him. The mansions of wealthy families in the capital and the residences of rival court officials were thoroughly plundered, their riches funneled into the national treasury. Indulgence in revelry and unrestrained desires prevailed. In such times, human life was as insignificant as grass, and those who valued their lives remained hidden at home.

Qi Fengxiang said, "Since our friends are no longer here, why not become friends ourselves? Dining and enjoying the scenery is also a refined activity"

Qi Fengxiang listened to her sincere words and understandingly replied: "I am not forcing you at all"

Su Lili hurriedly said: "Alright. Since Young Master Qi wants to be friends with me, please help me out of friendship. I truly do not wish to dine with you; I arrived at this table first, so you should leave. The green mountains remain unchanged, and the waters flow long; we shall meet again in the future." After seeing his expression darken a bit, she quickly added: "You just said you wanted to be friends, so you mustn't be angry; just consider it a favor for a friend."

Qi Fengxiang quietly watched him descend the stairs, while Fang slowly turned around and smiled gently, saying: "As the moon shifts, the shadows of the flowers move, it seems like an old friend has come. Miss Su, we meet again"

Qi Fengxiang stepped out of the Fuguo Building, gazing at the city walls in the distance. Suddenly, he found it amusing that he had been swindled by a rogue young woman and had been driven away in disgrace. He descended the steps of the shop, and with a glance to his right, he felt a chill. Mu stood on the main road, his eyes like cold stars, his brows sharp as blades, looking at him with a cold gaze. The evening breeze lifted the corners of his clothing, gently fluttering.

The carpenter remained focused on sawing the board, never lifting his head, cutting along the straight ink line with precision. Su Lili glanced at Master Zhang, then at the carpenter, and deftly adjusted the paint palette, working on an unfinished painting of pine and cranes on a piece of glossy cypress wood. After examining it for a moment, she added a stroke and said, "Let’s not discuss these matters; it could easily be misinterpreted. Master Zhang, when will you finish carving the patterns on that cedar wood?"

Qi Fengxiang stood with his hands behind his back, still looking back at him. After a moment, his narrow eyes slightly squinted, and he chuckled softly, "Jiang Qiudi, you are not dead yet?"

The young man with a fair complexion smiled lightly, but the debtor stared at her with a dark expression. Qi Fengxiang laughed heartily, yet his demeanor was quite gentle, saying: "I am a thief who does not steal, only remembers. Since the young lady still remembers my surname Qi, I presume you also have me in your thoughts."

Su Lili glanced over and said lightly: "The deposit is 1,000 taels."

The cavalry behind him followed closely, charging towards the heart of the city like the wind and lightning. Su Lili watched as this troop of cavalry passed by, and only after being tugged by her bodyguard did she follow him. A large group of soldiers entered, engaging with the fleeing troops, while sporadic street battles occurred on Baifu Street. At this moment, Su Lili could not advance and had to weave through the soldiers entering the city alongside her bodyguard. Gradually, they reached the city gate, where only a little over a hundred infantry remained, surrounding a simple large cart. At this moment, Su Lili could not advance and had to weave through the soldiers entering the city alongside her bodyguard. Gradually, they reached the city gate, where only a little over a hundred infantry remained, surrounding a simple large cart.

The wooden figure withdrew its hands, moving with ease, yet coldly stated: "You cannot defeat me." Clad in simple garments and with a graceful posture, it subtly exuded an air of equal contest.

Then remember what I said. After finishing his words, Mu Tou flicked his garment and turned to go upstairs

Qi Fengxiang nodded slightly and said, "Since you are here, take care of one."

Su Lili gazed at Qi Fengxiang's handsome face, which bore the marks of battle, their eyes meeting just a few fingers' distance apart. Seeing her stunned and staring at him in fear, Qi Fengxiang's originally serious expression softened into a smile, adding a hint of his usual teasing demeanor as he asked, "Is the coffin I ordered last time ready?"

Yu Fei shook his head and said, "Just now, some soldiers from the city came in, rummaged around the courtyard for a while, found no valuables, and wanted to set the house on fire. Later, when someone attacked them, they fled.

At that time, as we observed each other, a sense of mutual appreciation arose in our hearts

Su Lili earnestly said: "Young Master Qi, as the saying goes, it is not the thief's stealing that one should fear, but rather the thief's lingering thoughts."

Uncle Cheng said: "The autumn is crisp and refreshing, I went to Qiyun Temple to enjoy a visit with Master Zhang"

Qi Fengxiang suddenly recalled the person who had taken away half of his purple-gold patterned ribbon, Jiang Qiudi, whose bright eyes seemed to pierce directly into one's heart

Qi Fengxiang did not even look at the menu, simply instructing the restaurant to bring out the famous dishes. Su Lili lay on the table in utter boredom, listening to the man who owed money say: "Brother Qi, we have settled the matter we discussed, no later than October"

Su Lili tiptoed to the door and softly asked, "Who is it?"

A boy of about twelve or thirteen suddenly emerged from the crowd, executing each move with remarkable skill and anticipating his opponent's actions, proving to be an exceptionally rare adversary. They fought for a full half hour, tearing a diamond-patterned ribbon in half, each holding onto one piece, amidst the cheers of the audience. Qi Fengxiang presented half of the embroidered satin to Qi Huancheng, saying: "My child is lacking in talent, please forgive me, Father Commander"

Qi Fengxiang praised, "Not bad, being able to draw with you back then, you are indeed not my match now"

Mu Tou watched him walk away, then turned back to the courtyard. Su Li Li smiled and said, "What are you all talking about?"

Another squad of patrolling soldiers marched past in perfect unison outside the wall. Su Lili still sat under the gourd rack, unwilling to leave, as if there were memories here worth cherishing. When the surroundings fell silent, there came three gentle knocks on the corner gate. Su Lili was suddenly startled, straining to listen intently. The knocking resumed, a bit frantic and somewhat hurried.

The scorching sun made the time around noon pass unusually slowly. Su Lili returned from outside, carrying the heat of summer with her. She took the tea that Uncle Cheng handed her and gulped it down before smiling and saying: "On such a hot day, someone was still executed at Caishikou. I wonder what the Emperor is thinking. I also wonder which official is unfortunate; I heard that over eighty members of their family were killed, and many people went to see it."

Uncle Cheng shook his head and said: "It is becoming increasingly chaotic now, and the Emperor is unable to make decisions. Who doesn't know that it is Grand Tutor Bao Hui who controls the court affairs"

Embracing is originally a gesture of comfort, yet by this tranquil and vast riverside, it becomes an abrupt promise and a closeness

Su Lili suddenly leaned against the doorpost, silently gazing at her coffins

The wood still does not eat, and scolded her, saying: "What kind of person is not to be trifled with? You go provoke him! By the time you turn around, don't even think about leaving a bone fragment."

Uncle Cheng did not respond, his fingers tightly gripping the threshold of Su Ji's coffin shop, the person was already dead

Qi Fengxiang was momentarily taken aback by her shameless and twisted words, but then smiled and said, "Alright, I will help with this favor. Since we are friends, let us discuss it further another day." With that, he stood up to leave

Qi Fengxiang laughed heartily and said, "This name is good; judging by his expression and demeanor, he truly lives up to his name"

In the wooden eyes, there was not a trace of ripples, as if this name belonged to a stranger, existing only in a distant era. After a long pause, he coldly spoke, but only said succinctly: "Do not provoke her." Having said that, he went straight upstairs. As he passed by Qi Fengxiang's side, Qi Fengxiang suddenly struck out with his palm, halfway through changing it to a claw, reaching towards his shoulder well.

As if a massive stone were thrown into a shimmering lake, waves arise, and the heavens and the earth are turned upside down

Mother Wang shook her head indifferently, "I don't know"

He said nothing more, only that he had left and advised you to be cautious in all matters. Uncle Cheng, with his keen insight into the world, remarked, "Li Li, he is not merely a creature of the pond; he will not end his days in the marketplace like this, you... sigh.

The wood was meticulously crafted by hand, with those four characters engraved, and some talismans were retrieved from the study and inscribed inside the coffin lid

Ah? Su Lili's mind is a bit stuck

She sat down on the wooden chair and couldn't help but look out the window. The three people on the small bridge were no longer there. Su Lili let out a light sigh, wondering what he had come to the capital for again, hoping that she had misidentified him. She took a sip of the hot tea that the waiter had served, picked up the menu to order food, and was hesitating over what wine to choose for a light drink under the clear breeze and bright moon, when the ironclad truth told her that her eyesight was exceptional; she had indeed not made a mistake just now.

On his side stood two individuals: one clad in black attire, exuding an aura of authority without anger, making Su Lili feel as if the world owed him a debt; the other, dressed in a wide-sleeved long robe, was a delicate and refined scholar, possessing a gentle demeanor. In comparison to these three, the shopkeeper accompanying them was like a firefly beneath the bright moon, hardly worth mentioning

There is no need for further discussion, as I am focused on revising a manuscript. Su Lili glanced at it and saw that it was a public notice, hesitating as she asked, "Where is this... military horse from?"

Qi Fengxiang called out, "I will arrange another time to speak with you!" The wooden figure remained indifferent, directly stepping up the stairs. Qi Fengxiang watched as his silhouette disappeared, feeling a mix of admiration and melancholy. He turned to gaze at the distant city wall under the night sky, its gentle curves undulating like the ancient, ever-changing trajectory, a testament to the rise and fall of fortunes.

Su Lili raised her head and glanced at him sideways, sneering: "I am a withered vine in the wilderness, and you are a sand gull of heaven and earth. It is merely a stroke of bad luck that I ended up here; do you expect me to hang myself from this tree?"

Su Lili smiled and said, "Stop! I heard what you said." She turned to face him, "Why did you lie to me?"

Qi Huancheng gazed at the youth who was as radiant as the autumn colors and said to Prince Linjiang: "Your son is indeed a dragon among horses and a phoenix among chicks; given time, he will surely surpass Xiang'er."

Upon waking, I felt rather uncomfortable. I silently pondered, sat up, and as I lifted the quilt to get out of bed, the unease of the past few days finally found resolution—a corner of white paper was exposed by my pillow. I pulled it out, and on it were the thin, wooden characters: "Do not trust Qi Fengxiang."

Hmm? He turned around

The young man in white was taken aback, wearing a smile that was neither here nor there, and let out a soft "ha". He glanced at Qi Fengxiang, who did not even lift his head. Since those who should have come did not, it was inevitable that those who should not have come were present. The young man in white stood up and clasped his hands, saying: "Brother Qi, it is getting late today, and I have matters to attend to at my residence, so I will take my leave now"

Su Lili was furious, "In these past two days, the goods are urgently needed, yet he still has the leisure to go out and have fun. Does he not want to make coffins anymore? Does he want to become a monk instead!"

She hesitated as she stepped forward, pulling the coffin lid open by a foot. To her astonishment, she saw a wooden face, pale without a trace of color, lying in the coffin, seemingly dead. Su Lili was greatly shocked and wanted to push the coffin open to pull him out, but the coffin lid would not budge at all.

Su Lili held Yu Fei, remaining silent. After a while, she got up to find something in the kitchen, and the two of them ate haphazardly. Until evening, Uncle Cheng had not returned. Su Lili sat on the bed, not knowing how much time had passed. Hearing that Yu Fei was already sound asleep, she leaned against the headboard and fell into a vague slumber.

I cannot forget matters of business

The two individuals, filled with enthusiasm, sampled each dish. Su Lili sipped from her cup, drinking happily and sharing amusing anecdotes with Mu Tou. While most people become increasingly boisterous with alcohol, Su Lili grew quieter with each drink, ultimately holding her cup and smiling inexplicably. After finishing two pots of wine, Mu Tou said: "You should stop drinking and eat something."

In July, the flames of summer begin to wane, and in September, garments are bestowed. As soon as July arrived, two rains fell, and the weather turned a bit cooler. Su Lili contemplated whether to visit Yan Huan, but after thinking for two days, she decided against it. Feeling somewhat melancholic, she remained at home, meticulously crafting coffins. Sometimes, as she gazed at the coffins scattered throughout the yard, she felt that they possessed a certain spirit, silently conveying stories, and she felt a deep connection with them

Su Lili asked: "What is your name?"

Speaking of the shop, Su Lili appeared like a boss and smiled, saying: "Oh, is Young Master Qi going to take care of my business?"

"That... you just said you would treat..." Su Lili shamelessly smiled

Last month, indeed, the emperor has died, and naturally, words of joy can be redeemed. But by whom was she redeemed, and where did she go? She did not even inform herself. Su Lili stood for a while, feeling somewhat bewildered, as the clamor from the west side of the city gradually became deafening

The wooden chopsticks do not move, "How do you know him?"

What did he say

Su Lili firmly denied, "I, a young lady, can drink a thousand cups without falling and ten thousand cups without getting drunk. You spilled the soup, yet you turn around and blame me."

Su Lili nodded slightly and said, "In that case, you may return to rest; I will take care of the rest."

Su Lili could not see clearly, so she stood up and called out, "Uncle Cheng, Uncle Cheng." The mule pulling the cart clopped its hooves as it brought the cart in front of her, but there was no one on it, only a thin, unpainted floral-patterned coffin. Su Lili called out softly again, "Uncle Cheng." Yet, Uncle Cheng was still nowhere to be found.

Su Lili took a sip of water from her cup and said with a faint smile, "Not necessarily."

Seven days later, Grand Minister Bao Hui assassinated the emperor and declared himself the ruler. All nine gates of the capital were closed, and troops roamed freely. Su Lili, trapped within the city, was naturally unaware that the banners of rebellion had already risen in the surrounding provinces, as various regional officials, having lost the emperor, established their own governments.

Su Lili rushed into the courtyard with her hair disheveled, pushed open the wooden door on the east side, and found the bedding neatly arranged, the windows bright and clean, and a common item lying horizontally on the bed. Su Lili was momentarily at a loss as to what this meant, standing there in a daze. Uncle Cheng, who had appeared behind her at some point, quietly said: "The wooden figure has left. It bid farewell to me last night."

Su Lili originally wanted to smile, but her eyes became moist. His arms tightly embraced her, his face pressed against her hair, with soft breaths passing through the roots of her hair, caressing her skin. Su Lili turned around and buried her face in his embrace

Su Lili led him to the inner courtyard, closed the doors on all four sides, called for Uncle Cheng, and lit a small candle. Master Zhang used the candlelight to light a bag of tobacco, took a puff, and said: "Young Master, I have some matters to attend to and need to take a risk by leaving the city for a while. This child is the offspring of a distant relative of mine and I would like to temporarily leave him in your care"

After a brief pause, Wang Mama's round face peeked out from inside, glancing at her without the usual surprise or lively banter. Instead, she spoke in a neutral tone: "Boss Su, Huan'er was redeemed last month."

At this moment, Master Zhang turned around and also saw Su Lili, pondered for a moment, and nodded before leaving

When Su Lili's table full of dishes was served, Mu Tou also returned to his seat and frowned upon seeing it: "Why so much?"

Qi Fengxiang requested her brush, dipped it in ink, and with a stern and imposing force, set the brush down and said: "It is precisely these four characters."

Su Lili made a decisive decision and said to Mu Tou, "You go ahead and avoid them. After I drive them away, we can drink and eat together." Mu Tou glanced at Qi Fengxiang, his sword-like brows slightly furrowed. Qi Fengxiang and his two companions had already approached, and the shopkeeper, with a smiling face, said, "Sir, this table is for six people. Would it be alright to share it with these three young gentlemen?"

The noise coming from the west gate of the city prompted Su Lili to exclaim loudly, "Where have you gone?"

As the three individuals ascended to the second floor, they immediately drew the attention of the crowd. Qi Fengxiang was dressed in a narrow-sleeved brocade robe with a golden pattern, which, while not ostentatious, exuded a subtle elegance in its intricate details. A delicate jade pendant adorned his belt, and he wore long boots that, unlike his usual flamboyant demeanor, resembled a gallant wanderer ready to draw a bow on a spirited steed. His clear and refined features complemented this attire, embodying both literary and martial grace.

Su Lili's heart was filled with disdain: "Do you have to recite poetry every time you see me?" Looking at his expression, which seemed to say he was amidst a myriad of flowers yet remained untouched by a single petal, she felt quite irritated and replied, "Yes, it is indeed quite unfortunate."

Is Boss Su trying to abscond with the deposit? Such a high demand.

Su Lili had previously found the clawed face of Dingling to be very frightening; at this moment, this bloodied face, crying out for help, should be even more terrifying than the clawed face. However, upon seeing it, Su Lili seemed to feel no fear as she had imagined. Instead, she moved against the retreating crowd, only wanting to return to the shop

Su Lili gently set down her chopsticks, remained silent for a moment, and then wearily said: "Mu Tou, can we not talk about this? Today is my birthday, so let's enjoy a good meal together."

She climbed down the ladder, returned to the room, and picked up the wooden sword left behind, finding it long and heavy, and not easy to handle. After putting down the sword, she went to the kitchen to grab a kitchen knife and opened the door to go out. Yu Fei tugged at the corner of her clothes and said, "Sister Su, where are you going"

Mu Tou suddenly raised his head and glanced at Su Li Li, interrupting Master Zhang by saying: "I have taken note of the old gentleman's guidance. Each carving has its own character; let us see how each one hones their craft. Your style may not necessarily be mine"

She let out a scream, struggling to free herself, but her hand was tightly grasped by the rider, unable to break free. The man reined in the horse and said in a deep voice, "Boss Su, could you please stop squirming?" Su Lili felt that this voice was somewhat familiar, yet the tone was too calm and steady for her to immediately identify who it was. The man had already lifted Su Lili and seated her firmly in the saddle, commenting, "You are quite adept at cutting people down, but you must not panic when you strike."

On September 13, the sky was overcast, and the city was filled with a sense of foreboding. That night, Su Lili was wrapped in her quilt, only able to hear the sounds of soldiers and horses passing outside, making it difficult for her to fall asleep. The Grand Tutor's residence had issued a strict order: after the hour of Shen, no one was allowed to walk the streets, and those who violated the order would be executed on the spot. Every day before nightfall, every household had already closed their doors tightly.

Miss Su does not seem very pleased to see me, does she? Qi Fengxiang said

The debtor wished to argue, but the young man interjected calmly, saying: "What Brother Qi means is not that your martial arts are lacking, but rather that there is no need to use a sledgehammer to crack a nut. You are not a petty thief or a lowly scoundrel; as an assassin who punishes evil and upholds justice, why should you demean yourself in this manner?" He suddenly turned to Su Lili and asked, "What do you think, Miss?"

Qi Fengxiang no longer inquired, merely scrutinizing the menu as if studying the culinary styles. After a while, the shopkeeper approached and said that the dishes were almost ready and asked if they should be served. Su Lili waved her hand and said, "No, no, no, my friend hasn't returned yet." Qi Fengxiang nodded as well, "Then let's wait."

Someone softly called out: "Sister." Su Lili heard it was Mu Tou, and she tried hard to open her eyes, but it felt as if she were being pulled back into a dream, unable to open them at all. She quietly waited for him to speak again, but Mu Tou remained silent. After an unknown period, Su Lili fell into a deep sleep, even waking up later than usual in the morning.

Su Lili looked over and saw that the child was only about eight or nine years old, hiding beside Master Zhang, with a fearful expression. Su Lili glanced at Uncle Cheng, who coughed and said: "In these chaotic times, what is there that cannot be kept? Just stay here."

Su Lili spoke with increasing sincerity: "Your friends have all left, and you are not enjoying your meal; my friends have not returned, and I am also not enjoying mine. Why don't you go to the Mingyue Tower and find a girl or a young lad to drink a couple of cups with? You can indulge in both food and drink there." Su Lili, having only a vague understanding of this indulgence, naturally spoke without any sense of shame.

The young man turned and went downstairs, while Su Lili looked regretful, gazing at the debtor and saying, "Uh, those who shouldn't have left have left!" Implicitly suggesting that there are still those who should leave. The man glared coldly, let out a heavy "hmph," and stood up to Qi Fengxiang, saying, "I will also take my leave. I will handle what we agreed upon. If there is anything else, just let me know."

Su Lili rarely drinks alcohol, and even more rarely gets drunk. It is said that when one is drunk, they forget everything they said and did. When they wake up in the morning, lying fully clothed at home, aside from a headache, there is not much to worry about.

Su Lili did not raise her head and淡淡 said: "That is a lie, his name is Mu Tou"

Su Lili suddenly recalled that when Mu Tou first arrived here, he was also this cautious and hesitant, but there was a bit more determination in his eyes than in this child. Su Lili smiled and said, "Don't be afraid, the adults in this city have gone mad, causing a tremendous uproar. Let's not pay them any mind"

Qi Fengxiang, upon hearing this, did not become angry; instead, he genuinely contemplated the matter and replied earnestly: "I do not like young male courtesans, I only like young ladies"

*

I said I would come to pick up the goods in mid-October; you wouldn't have chopped them up for firewood, would you?" Qi Fengxiang continued to smile

Uncle Cheng chuckled and said, "Just give him a day off; since his leg injury has healed, he hasn't gone out to stroll around."

I... I told my friend that it was Mo Da from the tailor shop across the street from the coffin shop. Su Lili temporarily fabricated a lie, fearing that her wooden identity might attract unwanted attention. Anyway, Mo Da has left, and the tailor shop is closed.

The wood said: "I do not wish to say it is because I did not take it seriously, so you need not take it seriously either"

At this time, it was early September, the weather was cool and autumn was deep, and all things were imbued with a sense of desolation, as if the world was brewing a tumultuous change. Su Lili's keen intuition seemed to sense some impending crisis, tossing and turning through the night, unable to find sleep, unable to fathom the undercurrents hidden beneath the calm surface. This night was restless, and she vaguely felt a few cool fingers brushing against her face, a nightmare that lingered and could not be shaken off.

I cannot go back just like you.

The bodyguard approached the carriage and reported, "Young Master Ying, Third Master instructed me to bring this person to see you." Someone inside the carriage responded nonchalantly, "Understood." The bodyguard went straight away, and Su Lili stood outside the carriage, waiting for a long time without any movement inside, unsure which Young Master Ying it was that had such an air about him. After standing for a while, Su Lili coughed and said, "Young Master Ying, if there is nothing else, I will take my leave."

Su Lili immediately discarded her armor and fled in great embarrassment

Qi Fengxiang looked around the coffin shop's main hall and said with a smile, "Your shop is quite easy to find and looks good too"

Su Lili looked up and yawned, showing no semblance of a young lady's decorum, and naively nodded, saying, "Yes, yes, how could it not be?" The debt collector cast a disdainful glance at her. Qi Fengxiang suddenly spoke up, asking, "Who was the person sitting here with you just now?"

"You are going to fall into the river," the wooden figure said helplessly

This person is more difficult to deal with than the "Two Guardians of the Underworld"! Although Su Lili does not have a university education, she understands that people can be divided into gentlemen and villains. Villains are certainly undesirable, but gentlemen can sometimes be overly pedantic, often suffering losses when encountering villains. Therefore, the virtue of a gentleman is essential, while the means of a villain should not be overlooked. It seems that this Young Master Qi San is well-versed in this principle

Su Lili almost spat out her tea. Looking around to see that no one was paying attention to them, she turned back and glared at him

Qi Fengxiang nodded politely and said, "Alright, thank you for your trouble"

Su Lili came to her senses and nodded, "It is ready." Suddenly realizing that her hands were clasped around her waist, she was sitting on his horse, half leaning against him, and hurriedly pushed him, saying, "The coffin has long been prepared, just waiting for you to take it." Her hand, however, touched his icy armor, and raising her eyes to examine him, she saw Qi Fengxiang clad in silver armor, with a straight shoulder and a cinched waist, the tassels of his helmet fluttering.

The wood let out a cold snort: "Even after getting drunk, you are still standing there in the cool breeze. You must have caught a chill. If I don't hold you tighter, I'm afraid you might develop a severe case of pneumonia"

In a daze, she saw a valley where she had temporarily resided many years ago, with orioles flying and grass growing, under a dim and unclear sky. She sat beside the slanted grassy path, feeling only the silence and emptiness, cold as if it were not of this world. In the distance, a cart approached along the road, with a vividly dripping red paper lantern hanging at the front, on which the character "苏" was written in dark ink in a clerical script.

The inner city of the capital is bordered by a river, which has been excavated around the city. It is said that this was constructed at the beginning of the capital's establishment, based on the secret techniques of feng shui, to protect the royal dragon vein with its spiritual waters. The willows by the river sway gently, and Su Li and Mu Tou walk along the riverbank, where there are fewer tourists. A three-zhang-long canal flows gently, adorned with floating colored lanterns. In the distance, an arch bridge stands, where three people lean on the railing, gazing out towards the expansive terrain of the city.

Su Lili stepped out slowly, the ground littered with broken planks, a half-burned coffin, the rocking chair she had sat in, and the worn threshold. Outside the threshold, Uncle Cheng lay quietly on the ground, his face pale under the moonlight, devoid of any color. Su Lili knelt beside him, calling out timidly and pleadingly, "Uncle Cheng"

Suddenly, a person leaned out from the car window. Su Lili recognized him after a moment and realized it was the young scholar, the "Mr. Ha" from the "Two Generals of Huh" who was with Qi Fengxiang in the Fu Gui Building. "Mr. Ha" had already smiled and said: "So it is the young lady, forgive my negligence, would you care to come up and sit for a while?"

Su Lili is not worried about her debts. Since you have set your sights on me, I am not afraid of your pursuit. I gladly accept and say "take care" while calling out to the shopkeeper to "serve the dishes"

Su Lili asked Mu Tou to take out the account book, and upon opening it, she inquired: "What material? What pattern? What size?"

Qi Fengxiang cast a sharp glance and found himself facing Su Lili. Su Lili had no time to bury her head under the table and stood there in a daze, letting out a silent sigh. Qi Fengxiang was momentarily taken aback, but suddenly broke into a smile and said to the shopkeeper, "Aren't there still empty seats over there?" He raised his arm and pointed directly at Su Lili's table.

The dream was so vivid that it felt as if it were right before her eyes, yet there was a certain feeling that firmly told Su Lili: a wooden figure cannot die! How could someone like him die? He had been so gravely injured yet did not perish; now that he has healed, he certainly will not die. However, another feeling of unease lingered in her heart, as if guided by something. She slowly walked to the door of the inner courtyard, pulled open the latch, revealing the charred and collapsed main hall of the shop.

Qi Fengxiang nodded slightly and said, "Alright, take care."

The debtor seems quite impatient, "I can go, why bother looking for someone else"

Su Lili hurriedly opened the door, and Master Zhang led a child inside, swiftly stepping in. The three of them held their breath for a moment, and Master Zhang whispered, "Go in and speak."

I have already ordered, you can place your order now. Su Lili replied lazily

Qi Fengxiang resolutely stated: "You cannot do it; without complete confidence, you must not act rashly"

Three years ago, at the training ground in Youzhou, the military governor of Youyan, Qi Huanchen, hung a purple and gold patterned tassel on the high platform of the military camp and said to the visiting King of Linjiang, "Today, let us see the valiant generals of my army compete against each other." That year, Qi Fengxiang was twenty years old and had already become the commander of the right army. He took the lead and engaged in combat with great enthusiasm, fighting all the way to the foot of the high platform.

Due to the chaos in the streets, Uncle Cheng did not allow Su Lili to go out, and instead went out himself to buy provisions, purchasing as much as he could and storing it in the shop. However, the supplies in the capital were becoming increasingly scarce, and soldiers were looting. After enduring these few days, it was uncertain what the future would hold. Su Lili gazed at the wall with a sigh, reflecting that while it takes time to establish order in the world, it can be destroyed in a single night.

She turned around and walked back. Just after passing a street, she saw disordered troops retreating from the city gate. A soldier, his face covered in blood, vaguely shouted: "The city has fallen, the city has fallen, flee for your lives."

The bustling capital, once prosperous, ultimately descends into a hell on earth

Su's Coffin Shop is located at the corner of Baifu Street, where half of the shop has burned down. Fortunately, the wind is blowing outward, which has helped to extinguish the fire. Under such circumstances, Su Lili remains calm and unhurried, simply converting the inner door into a main entrance to shield against the wind and rain. On this day, climbing up to the roof to take a look, she sees that the western part of the city is ablaze, with thick black smoke rising straight into the sky

The wood observed her smiling and laughing gracefully, and finally, with a golden mouth, uttered a precious word: "Then let us go."

Su Lili hurriedly called out: "Young Master Qi."

Qi Fengxiang pointed at the wooden object and said, "Isn't this the great Mo from the tailor shop?"

Su Lili generously slapped Qi Fengxiang's banknote and said, "Take it, no need for change." She stood up, feeling a bit lightheaded, yet walked straight down the stairs. Mu Tou followed closely behind her. Su Lili felt suspicious, wondering why the staircase suddenly seemed uneven; nevertheless, she managed to walk down steadily.

The carriage slowly passed through Ruyi Square and turned onto Baifu Street, arriving at the charred facade of Su's coffin shop. Su Lili bid farewell and got off the carriage, kicking aside a broken piece of wood as she entered the inner courtyard. Seeing nothing unusual, she called out to Yu Fei a couple of times. Yu Fei rushed out from the back courtyard and leaped onto her legs. Su Lili looked around and asked, "Uncle Cheng hasn't returned yet?"

Su Lili instinctively tried to argue, "Who said I know him..." Unable to defend herself, she stammered, "Alright, I know him; he is the ghost summoned from the Dingling last time." While speaking, she picked up a piece of stir-fried vegetarian leg meat made from crispy lotus root and taro, placing it into a wooden bowl

Su Lili ultimately chose cedar wood for this coffin

Qi Fengxiang's temple veins throbbed slightly; after a moment of silence, he took out a silver note worth one hundred taels and placed it on the table, smiling with great reluctance, "I will come back to ask you for the change later"

In the corner of the courtyard, Master Zhang sat on a bamboo stool, watching as a piece of wood was being sawed into a board. Hearing this, he took a puff from his pipe and grunted, saying: "I tell you, if things continue like this, within half a year, the Emperor might not even be able to sit on his dragon throne. By then, the various lords will have plenty to fight over." He lifted his gaze and said: "Wood, what do you think?"

Su Lili also nodded and said, "I won't drink anymore, the wine has settled." She then poured herself a bowl of soup and sipped it, while Mu Tou pointed out the dishes and evaluated their flavors. Su Lili expressed her approval repeatedly, continuing to eat until the time was a quarter past the hour of Hai. The shop owner, feeling troubled, said, "Esteemed guests, our establishment is about to close. Would you like to come back tomorrow instead?"

In early October, news arrived that the external army, under the banner of avenging the emperor, had reached the capital. The capital, being weak and isolated, found it difficult to hold out for long, leading some individuals to adopt a reckless attitude. The Grand Tutor, Lord Bao Hui, also seemed to share this sentiment; unable to muster a strong resistance, he resorted to setting the city ablaze.

Qi Fengxiang glanced at Su Lili and pondered, "I am not in a hurry; I have yet to find someone to go with."

The young man said: "Miss, you should come up. The city is in chaos right now; if you step outside, you might be killed within ten paces. Once Brother Qi is settled, I will escort you back."

On the day of the Qixi Festival, lanterns were displayed on the streets, and the night market was as bright as day. Su Lili simply took a wooden stick to stroll around. Perhaps due to the unfavorable situation, people expressed their feelings through the festival, and from Ruyi Lane to Baifu Street, tourists were everywhere, even more so than in previous years. Bright red, orange, light purple, and tender green paper lanterns were hung everywhere, and the vibrant colors alleviated some of the worries of the crowd.

Su Lili looked at the large vehicle and declined, saying, "No need, I will head back first"

Su Lili walked on, not seeing Uncle Cheng. After turning two street corners, she arrived at the Mingyue Building to the west. She had just noticed that the street was ablaze, and the Mingyue Building had collapsed significantly, already closed for business. A few panicked young women were crowded by the door. Su Lili stood at the front and called out loudly: "Sister Yan Huan, Sister Yan Huan!"

Ying Wen wrote with one hand while replying, "It is from the Youzhou Garrison. Lord Qi has issued a proclamation to punish the bandits, and the Third Young Master is indeed the vanguard under his command"

Su Lili held a cup, resting one elbow on her head, appearing somewhat tipsy. She looked at him and smiled, saying: "I haven't celebrated my birthday like this in many years, with so much delicious food and truly good people by my side."

She spoke with sadness, but Mu Tou looked up and smiled, saying: "It is indeed quite delicious; you are just afraid you cannot make it this delicious."

Su Lili could not sleep, so she simply put on her clothes and got up, walking with her hair down to sit under the gourd trellis in the backyard, enjoying the breeze. The tyrant had died, which was perhaps the most gratifying event in many years. Although her life was as insignificant as an ant's, she still possessed the power of hatred. It felt as if a heavy burden had suddenly collapsed, leaving her momentarily bewildered.

The King of Linjiang stroked his beard, smiled kindly, and said: "The Marshal is overly complimentary."

Under the scorching sun, the sound of cicadas clung to the tree trunk, shrill and coarse. Su Lili silently observed him for a moment, reached out to pluck a piece of wood shavings from his shoulder, and said: "Don't do that heavy work anymore. Just finish the sand left by Master Zhang. I will go prepare the meal, and I will call you to eat in a while"

Su Lili said while holding the knife: "I will go out to look for Uncle Cheng; he has been gone for half a day and has not returned. You stay at home; if someone breaks in, hide in the empty water tank in the corner of the backyard where we pile up junk." Yu Fei agreed, and Su Lili went out, closing the door behind her. However, she saw that Baifu Street was desolate, with ruins everywhere. Some people were scavenging in the debris, while others were fleeing for unknown reasons.

Yu Fei nodded in understanding

Su Lili originally thought that Mu Tou would inquire about her acquaintance with Qi Fengxiang. However, after she sobered up, Mu Tou did not ask a single question. This led Su Lili to ask him how he knew Qi Fengxiang. Mu Tou replied that he had been to Youzhou, and had seen Qi Huanchen when he led his troops northward and left the city amidst the crowd. Upon hearing this, Su Lili was unsure whether to believe him or not

Su Lili said: "This bone-like thing is lotus root cut into thin strips, wrapped in taro paste and fried, making it look like a chicken leg. If you like it, I can make it too"

This fragile realm, barely maintaining the unity of the empire, has finally descended into chaos

She walked along the gourd rack to the back corner door, where Master Zhang and Mu Tou were indeed talking outside the door. Master Zhang was saying something unknown, while Mu Tou lowered his head, making it difficult to discern his expression. Su Li Li leaned closer to the door, faintly hearing Master Zhang say: "... in chaotic times, striving for supremacy... able to serve without choosing a master..."

After suffering from a cold for two days, I woke up to a bright morning, with the sun shining and everything looking pleasant. Uncle Cheng was in the courtyard, calling a few young workers to help him with the boards. Su Lili turned around and wondered, "Where is the wood?"

After waiting for one cup of tea after another, Qi Fengxiang sat calmly. Su Lili observed his leisurely demeanor and thought to herself: If I want to have a good meal, you three have to come and stir things up. If I don't drive you away today, won't that mean I let you control me every time? She lazily glanced out the window, targeting the most harmless pretty boy, and sighed, saying: "Young master, look at this meal; those who should be here are not coming!"

On that afternoon, Qi Fengxiang came by himself. Looking around as he entered the coffin shop, Su Lili was sitting at the counter reconciling accounts with the wood. Qi Fengxiang leisurely walked up and called out, "Boss Su." Su Lili responded with a "Hey," saying, "Young Master Qi has arrived."

Mu Tou gazed at the thing that resembled neither a leg nor flesh, and continued to frown, saying: "Qi Fengxiang is the third son of Qi Huancheng, the governor of Youzhou, and is slightly taller than his father and brothers. What is even more terrifying is his deep scheming and ruthless methods"

It was clearly Su Lili who wanted to drive these three people away, yet it seemed as if the two partners were expelling the "Two Harmonious Generals." Su Lili immediately sensed something was amiss; although they were sitting in this crowded place filled with diners, she still felt a sense of danger lurking in the shadows.

She pondered for a moment and replied: "These two are clearly scions of noble families; how could they tolerate even the slightest words from others? They likely look down on someone as coarse as me, a woman of the marketplace, and probably feel that dining in my presence would be a great dampener on their spirits, which is why they left. Young Master Qi, you need not force yourself either"

The wooden figure coldly remarked: "Since one is a traitor to the nation, there is naturally no need for rebirth"

Su Lili said earnestly: "Do I look like a fraud? Or just the kind that deceives for a mere 1,000 taels?"

I am here, and for the time being, I can help you find your way

As the debtor turned and walked away, Su Lili immediately turned to Qi Fengxiang and complained, "Hey—I'm not talking about him." Meeting Qi Fengxiang's gaze, which was filled with autumn-like tenderness, he smiled calmly and said, "If you are not talking about him, then are you talking about me"

A soft voice answered from outside the door: "It is I, Old Zhang"

Su Lili spat out three words from between her teeth: "white-eyed wolf." She wanted to curse further but could not utter a single word. Turning around, she saw the sky as clear as water, enclosed by the walls of the courtyard. It was tranquil enough, yet not sufficient for a hawk to spread its wings. Ultimately, it is your vast sky and distant land, while I remain in my corner of peace.

Qi Fengxiang looked at the wood, squinted his eyes and thought for a moment, then furrowed his brow and said: "I really don't know about this. The material doesn't need to be too good, medium quality will suffice. It should be wider to accommodate a large person. The most crucial point is to engrave four characters on the coffin lid—'Lù Dù Guó Zéi'!"

Mu Tou looked at her in silence for a moment, then said "Alright," reached out to grasp the white porcelain wine pot, and filled the cup with two qian of wine to eight parts full. Su Li Li raised the cup and drank it all in one go. Mu Tou silently ate the fragrant taro-flavored vegetarian leg meat with chopsticks.

The wood said: "I have never seen anyone drink like this; the tears are falling onto my clothes after drinking."

He gracefully released Su Lili, lifted her down from the horse, and instructed a bodyguard, "Take her to find Young Master Ying." Turning back to Su Lili, he spoke gently, "You need not be afraid, just go with him. When you return, wipe the dust off the coffin; I will come to collect it tomorrow." After saying this, he smiled, urged the horse, and rode away down the long street

Su Lili thought to herself that given Qi Fengxiang's frequent visits to the capital, it was evident that he had been managing this for quite some time. Now that the chaos was being quelled, it was only natural for him to leave the capital first in order to command the various lords. She feared that the Qi family had harbored such intentions for more than just a day or two, and it was just right that Lord Bao Huishi had provided a legitimate opportunity. Su Lili felt three parts indifferent and three parts understanding. In Ying Wen's eyes, she smiled gently, collected the documents, and tapped the carriage, saying, "Let us depart."

In the dim light, Su Lili cast a casual glance and, aided by the flickering flames, felt that the figure in the middle bore a striking resemblance to someone with the surname Qi, which startled her. She quickly pulled away and took a detour around a street corner, arriving at Fugui Building. The place was bustling with guests that night, and Su Lili went straight to the second floor, where only one empty table remained in the corner by the window

Not wanting to see him three years later, dressed in ordinary cloth, sitting in a tavern, unarmed and without a penny to his name. Upon seeing him again, Qi Fengxiang could not help but feel a mix of lofty ambitions and the profound changes of the world within his heart. Standing still for a long time, he shook his head and smiled, saying: "This child, I should have beaten you, there is no need to do it myself."

Su Lili murmured softly, "If you want to go shopping, just go. I don't even know why you didn't invite me."

Su Lili reached out and touched his cold face, looking around to find no one, not even a single person to save him or help her, only a scene of utter desolation. In an instant, tears streamed down her face as she awoke from her dream. She reached up to touch her face and found it wet. She got up and went to the courtyard to wash her face. The water was icy cold, and the wind pierced to the bone, precisely during the stillness of the late night, with the moonlight casting a clear glow over the entire courtyard

Su Lili did not indulge in her own melancholy, so she picked up a pair of chopsticks and said, "Then I shall have a taste as well"

Su Lili had no time to think, grasping the arrow shaft with one hand and swinging a knife to strike at the side of his neck. The kitchen knife embedded itself in the man's neck, and he fell to the ground. In the moment that Su Lili was stunned, cavalry swept past like the wind, and the person was lifted into the air, landing sprawled across the horse's back

Mu Tou was taken aback, while Su Li Li walked ahead without looking back. After taking five steps, she felt a tightness around her waist as a force pulled her backward, landing her in a warm embrace. Mu Tou's voice was close to her ear, filled with stubbornness and firmness, "If I can fly out, I can fly back!"

Six months later, the King of Linjiang was accused of treason, but in truth, he was forced to rebel. Several feudal lords, acting under the imperial decree, launched an expedition, and in an instant, buildings collapsed and power was lost, leading to defeat and death. Observing the battle from Youzhou, upon hearing of the defeat, Qi Huancheng let out a faint sigh, "If the King of Linjiang had known of today's tragedy, why did he have to enter this mundane world in the first place"

Walking out onto the street, the lights were dim, the area was empty, and the riverbank was silent. The wooden figure noticed that she was moving closer to the edge and, fearing she might fall into the river, reached out to pull her back home. Su Lili walked with him for about a zhang, but suddenly shook off his hand and said: "Why are you holding my hand?"

The wooden figure resembled a piece of walking wood, silently following Su Lili. Su Lili allowed him to do so, merely browsing through some trinkets at the street stalls, occasionally picking up an accessory to compare against him. After walking down a long street, Su Lili took a deep breath in the evening breeze and smiled, saying: "It has been a long time since I came out to stroll; I find it quite interesting. I remember there is a Fuguilou by the moat that serves excellent cheese. Suddenly, I feel like having some."

Qi Fengxiang chuckled and said: "I am indeed a petty person; one thousand taels of silver is hardly worth a deception. I will send someone to deliver it in the future. Tomorrow, I will return to Youzhou and will likely come to collect the goods around mid-October. Miss Su, please do not forget."

Although she was dressed in men's clothing, her figure appeared quite frail. In a daze, she was suddenly pulled by a fleeing soldier. Su Lili did not recognize the person and swung her knife, splattering some liquid onto her face. Without looking further, she broke free and ran. She heard someone say, "He is running towards the city gate; he must be a spy. Capture him."

"What thief?" Su Lili asked