Chapter 2

The disciples of Yunjiacun were somewhat surprised to see her join, but since she was brought by Chunxiang, naturally no one said much. However, it was clear that several households had suffered disasters; why was only this woman brought here?

Suddenly, a cheerful voice sounded from behind Fu Linchun

Uncle Li and Aunt Li will surely watch over you from the underworld

"No need to send me off, no need to send me off." With a beaming smile, as she was about to pass by him, she suddenly remembered something, turned back, and began to pull down the binding ring, allowing her long hair, as smooth as silk, to cascade down. She then removed her belt and directly took off her red robe.

Is that so

As the two walked for a while, she desperately suppressed her burp. In front of her elder brother, of course, she could not be too excessive; she would drink more when she got back! Suddenly, she heard Fu Linchun say without turning his head:

With a loud crash, the specially made Blood Eagle box rolled to the ground in front. The Blood Eagle woman quickly turned around, as someone struck the Blood Eagle box from behind her, but who could possibly be in the dark alley?

She was dumbfounded. Fu Linchun invited her to Yun Family Village? What the hell!

She slowly withdrew her gaze and locked eyes with him

Upon hearing this, tears streamed down her face, and she trembled as she scolded:

She wiped her nose, sneezed, and did not respond

Indeed! Li Jinchao's eyes twinkled as he chuckled, "Since the heroine knows my identity, she must understand my ability to generate gold with my left hand and silver with my right. Don't you wish to enjoy a better life? To wear gold earrings, don golden garments, savor delicacies from mountains and seas, and reside in the grand streets of the capital?"

Inside are the old clothes that she has never changed out of

Is that so? He showed no signs of joy or anger, slowing his pace to walk alongside her. "Miss Li, do you know the background of that Lan Qing beside you in the martial world?"

The long alley stretches endlessly, resembling the road to the underworld, dark and murky. The sound of the drums and gongs used for firefighting on the street grows fainter, as if separated by two worlds. She laments:

Seeing this, she was greatly alarmed. Fu Linchun, who was willing to invest some thought in her, was someone she had never encountered before. In the past, he wouldn't even spare her a glance, let alone engage in conversation. They had been working for the Yun family estate for many years, and it was essential for them to treat each other as strangers when they met. However, she was well aware that he did not particularly like her.

Li Jinzhao was momentarily stunned, so much so that his jaw dropped and he didn't even feel pain in his arms. Is the usually serious Lan Qing really the person standing before him now?

She shrugged and said it was up to him, then turned back to the disciples of the Yun family village and said

Hmm?" she chuckled.

"Rest assured! My strange cat has a long life ahead of it." She smiled and turned to leave

Li Jinzhao's heart full of joy was suddenly frozen by these words

She did not mind at all, stepped forward to pick up the wine glass, and laughed loudly, saying

At the end of that year, I came secretly, naturally unable to reveal myself. At that time, you were having a reunion dinner with the young masters of the Yun family, and you still resembled a lazy tree. It seemed that as soon as one approached you, it was as warm as spring, which I truly liked

Adorned with gold and silver

Someone slowly crouched down beside her, and she held her breath, her eyes rolling as she noticed that this person was dressed in dark-colored robes, which explained why they were not clearly visible in the darkness

Li Jinzhao secretly cursed the two masters of Yun Family Village. ... This way, she would be sacrificed alive ... ... She remained unconvinced and said: "If you really give me the Blood Eagle, then there will be no Golden Thread Robe, the Golden Thread Robe, the Golden Thread Robe, only I in this world can make it ... ... "

I have read the secrets related to Yun Family Village after the third gate. The golden abacus of Yun Family Village has always been in the hands of men, and the relationship with the Fu and Gongsun families has always been one of gentlemanly friendship, without exception. Although there are few opportunities to meet, that bond has always existed. He spoke each word slowly but with utmost clarity.

That earring is quite special? The night breeze carries his warm voice, seemingly an unintentional inquiry

She smiled, not at all minding that anyone in the world could know her loneliness, her weaknesses, her sadness

Fortunately... unfortunately, the earring fell off. How did he know that her left ear was injured

Miss Li

With a thud, Li Jinchao cried out again

This morning, I came to pick you up. Is this your friend

She completely disregarded his polite insincerity, laughing heartily

He wrapped his arms around her waist and lifted her, making her stand upright. Her heart raced; in the dark alley, she could not see the other person clearly, but she could not help but shift her gaze, and instinctively, she looked towards Lan Qing.

She felt a bit dizzy, and Fu Linchun actually touched her like this... Her mind was still stuck on Lan Qing's raised silver needles... She had seen Lan Qing kill before, but this way of killing was too much... It hurt! The cry of pain was swallowed back in time as the silver needle was taken out of her arm

She stole a glance again, playing with the ends of her hair. Clearly, the night breeze was chilly, yet warmth surged to her cheeks. Had she known it would be like this, why did she still inflict self-torture by pinching her face

"Why trouble yourself, Young Master Chunxiang?" After a pause, she added, "Please lead the way."

Fu Yin was momentarily at a loss for words, his gaze slowly shifting to the red tassel at her waist

Lan Qing? Li Jinchao held back her tears, staring at the young man approaching slowly with a lantern. Could it be that Lan Qing was born to be her lucky star

Drinking, reveling, neglecting one's appearance... Alas, this is self-inflicted

Ah, please speak, I am not well-versed in the matters of the world, but if it concerns adornments of gold and silver, I assure you I will make you shine brilliantly.

She touched the fine silk fabric, unable to fathom the purpose behind Fu Linchun giving her this garment, so she decided to think of nothing and simply put it on.

She chuckled, "This is only natural. I celebrate New Year's Eve with you every year; otherwise, who else would I celebrate with?"

The chubby cheeks of the girl puffed out, and her plump red pants-clad feet kicked out from the embrace of Lan Qing.

Li Jinzhao was a bit surprised, but still took it with a smile

She does not look back, does not look back. Even if she were to look back, she would only be seen as garbage in the eyes of others; she absolutely will not look back

Her heart raced like a drum, and her arms began to ache in waves, yet she dared not lift her head again... Although she felt ashamed of her inexperience, she could tell just by listening that someone was engaged in a passionate kiss... Lanqing, you have worked hard...

Li Jinzhao was taken aback. Suddenly, this charming man subtly kicked her chin with the tip of his foot. She quickly closed her eyes, finally coming to her senses, and hurriedly removed the silver needle.

Little New Year's Eve is a day of astonishment

Your Lanqing, although he cares for you deeply, is not very suitable for you given his character in the martial world

He gazed at her, his dark, shiny eyes seemingly filled with disbelief

Tonight is indeed rather eerie

She smiled again

He remained silent

Then I shall not see you off," Fu Linchun said gently, stopping to look at her

The woman behind smiled

Every year, the new robes for Yunjiacun are made, and she always reviews them. She usually prepares a few extra pieces to guard against unforeseen needs, never expecting that they would ultimately be used for herself

It hurts her to death

Red ears ... ... five copper coins. ... ... ... the owner of the industry responsible for the livelihood of the Yun family village ... ? ... how could it possibly be her

Due to the biting cold, her cheeks had long since turned pale. Dressed in the male attire of a disciple from Yun Family Village, she intertwined her hands and tucked them into the wide sleeves for warmth. Her standing posture was not very graceful, and her crimson long robe billowed out in the wind.

She does not mind either, as the disciples of Yun Family Village are skilled at gathering information, and everyone knows that she had shamelessly confessed her love for Fu Linchun in public. She spread out her red robe, which was styled for men, and it belonged to the Young Master of Yun Family Village.

"Is someone here to pick up Miss Li?" Fu Linchun, upon hearing his disciple's report, was not surprised.

His gaze briefly lowered, resting on the red tassels at her waist. There were five copper coins on the red tassels, and when he lifted his eyes, there was an unintentional smile.

Another knock at the door

The sky had already darkened, and looking out, the village of Yunjiacun, shrouded in darkness, was brewing a lively atmosphere, which in turn lifted her spirits. Although she was not lacking in company during the New Year's Eve, experiencing it for the first time in Yunjiacun felt inexplicably like being at home.

"How about this, if Miss Li does not mind, let us go to my place first. There are certainly still Blood Eagles in the city, and I fear they may have already ambushed near your home," Fu Linchun said gently.

Someone rushed to the well to put out the fire. She turned her eyes and saw the old man from the cloth shop approaching her with a distressed expression. She sighed and whispered, "Old Cai need not be so. The house has collapsed and lives are at stake; after all, the fault does not lie with you—" Her tone paused, for Old Cai had slipped and fallen to the ground.

Rows of flesh walls block the way, rows of flesh walls collapse, she is responsible for visiting the graves every year, just thinking about it sends chills down her spine

She has always dressed casually and does not reject wearing men's clothing. She even ties her hair up, imitating the style of the male disciples from the Yun family estate

Lan Qing smiled faintly and said, "Thinking about it still makes me uneasy; it is better to have you in my sight."

Lan Qing is a person of the martial world, and she is aware of it. However, she is uncertain about the extent of her skills. At home, there is also a girl named Da Tou Niu. In a critical moment, if Lan Qing chooses to protect her instead of Da Niu, she would have to live her life on behalf of Da Niu, calling her "father". She is unwilling to do that. She internally calculates her acquaintances in the city and ultimately has to admit that unless she directly rushes to Yun Family Village to seek refuge, her non-martial friends, who were supposed to celebrate the New Year with her, can only serve as her meat shield.

The rosy face turned around, clearly showing signs of inebriation.

Fu Linchun said in a gentle voice

Fu Linchun wore a calm smile as he walked with her through Yun Family Village

"Alright, rest assured! I, Li Jinzhao, vow that in this lifetime, I shall never again develop feelings for Fu Linchun. If one day I truly end up in a romantic relationship with Fu Linchun, may I be struck by five thunders and be smitten by lightning, let heaven be my witness!" She tilted her head to look at Fu Linchun, who was about to speak, and smiled happily: "Are you reassured now, Young Master Chunxiang?"

The elongated pupils bulged. Damn it, he's dead

Fu Linchun smiled and said

It is not you who has offended anyone; if blame is to be assigned, it should be directed at the Yun Family Manor! Originally, the Yun Family Manor did not involve itself in the affairs of the martial world, and both sides managed to coexist in a fragile peace. Two years ago, Gongsun Xian handed the Blood Eagle list to the leader of the Wenren Alliance, which was clearly an act of provocation. Since a confrontation was intended, we cannot allow you, this key figure, to escape! The Yun Family Manor would lose half of its vitality without you; how could we let this opportunity slip away?

It is I, Fu Linchun

That beautiful long hair danced in the night, imprinting itself in his eyes

The big girl was in Lan Qing's arms, her chubby hands vigorously slapping her arm. She exclaimed, "It hurts, big-headed girl, if you have the ability, come down and challenge me one-on-one, this sneak attack..." This big girl is mute, both plump and heavy, and loves to play with her. She smiled sweetly as she pinched the big girl's rosy cheeks. "Big girl round, big girl fat..."

Miss Li, is your left ear feeling better?

She laughed heartily: "It doesn't matter, it doesn't matter. After all, I am still alive. What does it mean to have nine lives like a strange cat? It refers to someone like me, right? You need not worry too much; we are simply doing our own things. I didn't hide well enough, which is why the Blood Eagle uncovered it. Really, you don't have to be overly concerned." Even if he was worried about the life of the Golden Abacus rather than Li Jinchao's life, she still felt a small sense of joy in her heart. After all, I am still alive. What does it mean to have nine lives like a strange cat? It refers to someone like me, right? You need not worry too much; we are simply doing our own things. I didn't hide well enough, which is why the Blood Eagle uncovered it. Really, you don't have to be overly concerned." Even if he was worried about the life of the Golden Abacus rather than Li Jinchao's life, she still felt a small sense of joy in her heart.

Where exactly did she buy this fat earring

"Of course, I know!" She glanced at Fu Linchun who was standing beside her and asked tentatively, "Fu Linchun, how did you suddenly appear?"

Crawling slowly backwards... Retreating slowly... Did that woman not stop her? Was she mesmerized?

Isn't it clear that Fu Linchun definitely wants her to stay at Yun Family Village for the New Year's Eve? She was momentarily taken aback, thanked the disciple, and then walked back to her room with a series of soft footsteps. The disciple was still secretly watching her, and she smiled, saying, "Is there something you need, young man?"

The orange-red flames leapt out from the second floor of "Chunji Fabric Store," and the charred beams quickly collapsed to the ground

The Gongsun family has always been somewhat peculiar; whether it is said to be destined by heaven or intentionally arranged, those who marry must have some familial connection. The Fu family, on the other hand, when there is a relationship of sworn siblings, it is a genuine brother-sister bond, with no exceptions whatsoever

She squinted her drunken eyes, seemingly a bit drowsy. From a distance, she saw Lan Qing and Da Niu with their towering hairdos at the entrance of the courtyard, and she burst into laughter: "Da Niu clearly falls asleep at night and cannot be woken up, yet she is still staying up late waiting for me"

Hmph, I have changed my mind. Turning you into a member of the Blood Eagle, and the mountains of gold and silver will be easily within reach

She quickly curled up again, the corners of her mouth lifting as she said

In the darkness, she always felt that Fu Linchun was watching her. She wanted to meet his gaze, but he was positioned opposite the light source, and she could only see a figure standing there, unaware of what he was doing.

He looked at her, took it, and said, "Alright."

The slender eyes suddenly burst, the breath stopped, and the body became rigid

From the reflection in the bronze mirror, the crimson long gown accentuates her slender waist, yet simultaneously highlights the pallor and puffiness of her complexion. She seldom looks in the mirror, and even when she does, she mostly pays it no mind. She still remembers the last time she carefully examined herself as a child, when she still bore her mother's exquisite beauty; now, however, it has... diminished considerably

Shut up! Go into the alley!

"Heroes, may we meet again in the future!" With these words, they swayed a bit and followed Fu Linchun.

Blood Eagle is determined to make Yun Family Village fall in her hands! She destroys them one by one, and she cunningly avoids the three hideouts. The second hideout's town has been discovered, and it won't be long before she may actually die at the hands of Blood Eagle.

"Is it so?" Fu Linchun pondered.

Still, New Year's Eve is a magical night. While families gather for reunion dinners, it can also fulfill a small wish for those who are without a home.

"It is my fault," he said softly

Thank you very much for your help, Miss Li," he said with a slight smile, calmly.

Lan Qing patted the dust off her body and said, "It's always troublesome when the affairs of the martial world involve unrelated people. Today, I don't understand martial arts, and I don't have a deep understanding of the Blood Eagle. If Yunjiazhuang dares to provoke the Blood Eagle, they should have considered the consequences."

"It hurts, it hurts, help me!" Li Jinchao screamed in agony.

Knocking on the door.

She whispered in distress, wondering if Lan Qing had the ability to face two women alone.

Her tears burst out, and finally unable to hold back, she burst into tears with a "wow" and cursed:

She shook her head. "I don't know," while desperately admiring Fu Linchun. It was rare to be able to appreciate him up close like this, and she really didn't want to look away.

Fu Linchun looked at the pavilion with a calm expression.

With the faint light of the lantern, her gaze finally settled on Lan Qing's face.

"Stay for New Year's Eve?" She was truly taken aback. After staying over last night and not seeing Fu Linchun all day today, she knew she had completely annoyed him. Just as she was about to prepare to go home, she was unexpectedly invited to spend New Year's Eve together?

In the dark alley, she was forcefully pushed and fell to the ground. Just as she was about to use her old trick to roll away and escape, little did she know that her dress was pinned down by four silver needles, rendering her unable to move.

Pada pada, a series of footsteps sounded from inside the room, then the door opened.

What grudge do I have with you? Why do you always try to force me to death?

The young men and boys from the Cloud Village outside are presenting new clothes, whispering softly:

She laughed and said, "It doesn't matter, it doesn't matter." Then she burped after drinking.

"It hurts! Big girl, don't you feel happy if you don't bump into me for a day?" Clearly, the big girl allowed Lan Qing to hold her, yet that large head remained steady, forcefully bumping against her forehead.

No, it's not. From childhood to adulthood, I have always been particularly fond of it. I also made a pair for my eldest sister. Hey, my eldest sister and I are companions, so naturally we have the same style. We enjoy wiping it every day, it's endless fun.

Last night, Yunjiazhuang took in both Bu Village and the disaster victims affected by the fire. It is precisely this act of kindness that has earned the respect and admiration of the townspeople. Speaking of which, she praised Fu Linchun for his sense of justice, separating public and private matters and not ignoring her existence just because he dislikes her, or even sacrificing public interests for personal gain.

Li Jinzhao had heard of the strict and traditional customs of the Fu family. She scratched her face, smiled at him, and performed a bow, followed by a loud burp

She gazed at the leading Fu Linchun, who was wearing a newly changed apricot-colored robe, exuding an air of elegance and warmth like spring. Indeed, this color on Fu Linchun was truly eye-catching

The visitor was indeed Lan Qing. He was dressed casually, with his usually tied long hair flowing like black silk in the wind, and an unusual spring-like smile blossoming at the corners of his mouth as he said

Suddenly, she had nowhere to retreat because she had kicked someone

Bo Linchun inviting her to celebrate New Year's Eve together was already enough to astonish her, and now he even sent new clothes from the Yun family estate; it was as if the heavens were about to rain red!

She was taken aback upon hearing this and immediately chuckled twice

Her heart raced, her mind was in a bit of chaos, wishing that Fu Linchun would continue to cover her eyes. However, Fu Linchun was completely disconnected from her feelings and simply let go. She turned her eyes towards Lan Qing, and from the corner of her eye, she caught sight of a body lying lifeless on the ground behind Lan Qing

I understand this; the friendship of gentlemen is as淡如水. Although I am a woman, who says that men and women cannot be friends? Young Master Chunxiang, our opportunities to meet in the future are likely to be very limited, or perhaps we may never meet again. If you have any matters in the future, just send someone to inform me, and I, Li Jinchao, will certainly do my utmost to assist you.

Forget it, she is self-aware.

She was secretly shocked and her gaze was suddenly obscured by darkness. After a momentary pause, she realized that Fu Linchun had covered her eyes.

I am indifferent to what I wear; if someone offers me a new piece of clothing, I will certainly accept it without hesitation. I will be leaving shortly, and Fu Linchun, he...

Fu Linchun has been watching her?

She said with a smile, "Goodbye, Prince Chunxiang"

Miss Li's lack of disdain is the best thing. Everything eventually fades over time, and after a while, it will dissipate.

Fu Yin glared at her with beautiful eyes. She laughed, "Haven't you seen a woman drinking? I'm happy! I suddenly have an extra brother as a support; who would dare to stop me from doing anything in the future!"

"Think of me, Li Jinzhao, today I meet my end in the underworld, with no one to see me off, alas... no one to see me off..." She hummed the tune softly.

Thank you, Young Master Chunxiang, for your timely assistance

His warm and gentle appearance is completely unlike the enchanting demeanor of Lan Qing when her demonic power surges, yet she simply adores his warm aura. If only such warmth could accompany her through the New Year's Eve, how wonderful that would be

Yes, therefore Young Master Chunxiang asked me to deliver the new clothes, and I request Miss Li to change into them before we go for the reunion dinner

Is that so? The voice was calm and unperturbed

He leaned down and whispered in her ear in a breathy voice

That warm voice belonged entirely to Fu Linchun, and she instinctively jumped up, her heart feeling an uncontrollable discomfort as she gazed intently.

"Oh..." She rolled her eyes and happened to meet the gaze of the disciple who was secretly watching her. Unable to hide her longing any longer, she said, "Then please tell the young man at the Lanqing noodle stall that I will not be returning to celebrate the New Year's Eve."

So that's how it is, what a damn coincidence, causing her to pull off her earrings with force, thinking that at least someone familiar would come to collect her body after seeing it. If Fu Linchun could recognize her earrings, that would be truly bizarre. She touched her left ear, wincing in pain.

"Has Miss Li ever entered through the third main gate of the Jigu Pavilion?" His voice remained warm, yet he did not lower his head to look at her again

"Miss Li, do you really want to stay in this city?" he asked softly.

"I finally found you, Boss Jin." A soft female voice came from behind her

Later, although you were reluctant, you inadvertently saved me on the street, which was incredibly easy for me, at the age of eighteen, to fall in love. My mother said, enjoy the wine while you can, and if you have someone you like, you should love them wholeheartedly and express your feelings loudly; that is the essence of life today

Though it is the same person, the one before me is extraordinarily enchanting, with a smile that exudes boundless charm, causing one's heart to race and desires to surge.

There is no poison on the needle, so you can rest assured. If you wait until the blood eagle is applied to your arm, it will be too late

You can rest assured. The current Li Jinzhao has long rid himself of that infatuation and no longer cares about the New Year's Eve family reunion dinner. You have also worked hard. If other women admire you and pursue you, you can ignore them. But unfortunately, it is me with this identity, so you have to take the initiative to propose a gentleman's friendship. As long as we maintain a gentleman's friendship, I will never cross that line, and you will not feel troubled because of it. You have made yourself the one who holds the knife, which is good. I am getting older, and I am no longer the childish Li Jinzhao.

She hesitated for a moment, then whispered, "Well... I'll trouble you, Fu Linchun."

She pretended not to see. She just wanted to stay here, where she was so familiar that she could find her way home with her eyes closed. Besides... um, it's closer to Yun's village, and it's more convenient to keep in touch, but there's no other meaning.

She could not help but hold her breath

"You always love to bump into me, bumping me to death. Even if I become a ghost, I won't spare you. Without your red envelope— it hurts so much. Please stop bumping into me, Lan Qing, stay away from me." She cried out all the tears that had been accumulating for a long time, as a matter of course.

Lan Qing's eyes finally showed a smile. "Fortunately, Chunxiang Gongzi timely knocked the box out of her hand, otherwise I'm afraid I wouldn't have been able to make it in time." He paused and explained, "You were too close to her. If there was a fight, it's hard to say you wouldn't have been affected."

Fu Linchun's gaze slowly fell on a pavilion in the distance. He hadn't been there for a long time, and now it's a place where the digital aristocrats discuss the history of the rivers and lakes.

This morning I am truly happy, but unfortunately, I have been living in the present while their present has disappeared.

Is Miss Li feeling better?

With this in mind, Li Jinchao trembled and blended in with the onlookers watching the fire. Usually, the arsonist is likely to be at the scene. Her slender eyes rolled around, wondering if she should go home now. The fire broke out at the end of the city, while her hideout was at the beginning. Now, the neighbors are all coming to put out the fire. Wouldn't it be walking into a trap if she went home?

"Yun Jiazhuang cannot protect me for a lifetime. Tomorrow morning, I will leave here and return to my other hideout. I will not reveal myself until the Blood Eagle is eliminated." She turned to look at Lan Qing and Da Niu, then glanced at Fu Linchun, sighing, "Look at me, always eating from my own bowl while watching others' bowls. Young Master Chunxiang, after my parents passed away, at first, I was unclear about how my future days would change. I believed I could still survive, but every New Year's Eve, I always feel very lonely."

"Greetings, esteemed heroes. I have heard that you have all exerted yourselves to rescue the cloth shop, and that some have even been injured. Truly remarkable individuals, you make a humble woman like me wish to offer myself in gratitude. Unfortunately, there is only one beauty, and I cannot bestow myself upon several. Tonight is New Year's Eve; I shall first drink to the fullest, wishing all of you heroes a prosperous year ahead, and may you each encounter the beloved lady of your heart." She drank it all in one gulp.

Some things need to be made clear in order to be completely severed. If Lord Chunxiang wants to rid himself of me, it must be done thoroughly! I like Fu Linchun; he is just like that lazy tree, just like my father, just like my mother, and he possesses the warmth of my parents. Perhaps he can accompany me through New Year's Eve; perhaps he can watch me be happy, and then my father and mother will have no regrets!" She chuckled again, patting her face, a bit lost in thought; "No, I was wrong. The ones who have always had regrets are not my father and mother, but me. From beginning to end, it is I who have regrets. I want them, I really want them, but unfortunately, I can no longer ask for them back.

Please take care

Dong!

......Oh......

I passed by." The voice sounded somewhat indifferent

His words, carried by the chilly night breeze as it brushed against her slightly damp long hair, transformed into a sharp blade that pierced her heart, leaving her no time to prepare herself

"Are we still going to celebrate New Year's Eve together tonight and tomorrow night?" Lan Qing asked

The disciples of Yunji Village also curiously gathered around. Did something ambiguous happen between Chunxiang and Li Jinchao? Otherwise, Chunxiang usually wouldn't even glance at her!

Miss Li, do you know how the Fu and Gongsun families interacted with the Golden Abacus in the past

The slender eyes slowly met his seemingly warm spring-like gaze

Fu Linchun was on her left side, just in time to see her long, shiny black hair tied into a thin braid behind her ear, preventing her hair from touching the wound. On her right side, there wasn't even a hint of a braid, making the two sides different; the laziness and carelessness were precisely Li Jinchao's style... Upon thinking of this, he smiled slightly

The disciples of Yun Jiazhuang fell silent, unable to utter a word, merely staring at them with wide eyes. Some, who even held a favorable view of Li Jinchao, cast sympathetic glances at him.

This is certainly the case... I have grown accustomed to living in this city; if I were to move away, I would find it quite difficult to adjust.

Before long, they arrived at the front yard. Due to the large number of disciples, the reunion dinner was held in shifts, and since the hall could not accommodate everyone, it was moved outdoors

"Miss Li, I have come to escort you to the front yard." He smiled politely

I will escort you to the entrance of the village," Fu Linchun said

"Indeed." Fu Linchun said, "We are also doing our utmost regarding the Blood Eagle matter. Miss Li, do you still intend to stay in the city?"

I am not clear about the background of Lan Qing in the Jianghu, but he said he has withdrawn from the Jianghu. Whether he knows or not is actually irrelevant. Fu Linchun, you can rest assured, he has been with me for several years and will definitely not disclose anything about Yun's family estate... I mean, he and I are just friends, very, very good friends

Upon hearing this, she laughed heartily towards the sky

"It would be best if you have been there; I am also troubled, not knowing how to start a conversation with you." He stopped, finally turned around, and smiled at her.

Outside the door, it was indeed Fu Linchun

The disciples of Yunji Village exchanged glances, unsure of how to express themselves

She slowed her pace by two steps and retreated to his left rear, yet he seemed indifferent and did not notice her sudden estrangement

I lost my parents at a young age, and whenever the topic of the New Year's Eve reunion dinner comes up, I always feel a sense of longing. I am grateful to Young Master Chunxiang for allowing me to relive the dreams of my childhood tonight

Is that so? This time, Miss Li has been wronged. The matter of the Blood Eagle..." He suddenly whispered, "It should not have happened. Two years ago, it was to protect the wife of Gongsun Xian that he handed over the Blood Eagle list; otherwise, the Yun family would not have confronted the Blood Eagle directly.

"On the New Year's Eve of the first year, I was the only one at home, so I went to the neighborhood to keep vigil. However, that was someone else's home, and their parents were not the ones I wanted. Later, I picked up those who could not return home from the streets, including the severely injured Lan Qing. Thus, every year I spent the New Year with them, but I always thought that was not what I truly desired." She broke into a brilliant smile and laughed heartily, saying, "It turns out that Yun Family Village is not what I wanted. What I wanted has always been... always been there..." Her voice gradually lowered, and her expression softened.

Fu Linchun finally turned to look at her

"Shut up!"

The window paper had been covered with a thin layer of dark color. She was about to go open the door, but then remembered something and rushed to the bronze mirror, pinching her cheeks firmly.

"As promised, those who couldn't make it last year have all arrived this year. With everyone here, it's not easy for the Blood Eagle to cause harm. At the very least, we can still spend New Year's Eve together." He spoke gently, holding the girl and walking back home with her.

"The young man has been here a few times," she said with a smile. She truly felt sorry for Lan Qing and the others; they had clearly agreed to spend this year's New Year's Eve together, yet she was being so selfish.

Li Jinzhao was naturally a person who understood the times. Following instructions, she turned into an alley, and in the darkness, something slipped from her hand, causing her left ear to bleed profusely. She gathered her beautiful black hair to cover her left ear

He stopped, and she naturally followed suit. It is truly rare to see him smile at her like this

When I entered Yun Family Village at the age of seventeen, I saw you sitting there, like a languid tree, seemingly lost in thought, yet thinking of everything; nothing in the world could disturb your daze at that moment

"Haha, what my brother said is true." Seeing a disciple hurriedly coming to find Fu Linchun, she turned around, embraced the wine jar, and took a few more swigs.

"No..." He felt a bit shy, withdrawing his gaze from her damp long hair. "Please let Miss Li take a break." After saying this, he kindly closed the door to prevent anyone from seeing her in an unseemly state.

She was taken aback, hurriedly wanting to assist, but unexpectedly felt a sharp pain in her arm, as if a thin needle had been driven in.

She scratched her face and smiled playfully

She squinted her drunken eyes, paused for a moment, and when she spoke again, her voice was somewhat hoarse

"Do not, do not make me a part of the Blood Eagles, I am loyal to the Yun family estate! I cannot betray the Yun family estate!" Yet if faced with death or betrayal, she would rather choose the latter, but she must put on an act first to negotiate!

"Young Master Chunxiang invites Miss Li to stay tonight and celebrate New Year's Eve together, keeping vigil for the new year."

The corners of her lips, which were originally pressed together, suddenly lifted in an exaggerated manner, breaking the stiff silence with a hearty laugh

He looked at her and smiled gently, saying, "Thank you, Miss Li." After speaking, he continued to lead the way

She consistently responded with a playful smile and laughter

She smiled gently, playing with the ends of her hair, glancing around but never looking at his back. She lowered her head to examine the long robe of a disciple from Yun Family Village, realizing how it was... In his eyes, her relationship with him was akin to that of the master of Yun Family Village with an ordinary disciple, good grief, such a metaphor, who could possibly understand it

"What are you talking about? In fact, you should be considered a part of the Yun family, and you have the right to this reunion dinner." He said this, yet he did not turn back.

She was taken aback, instinctively touching her left ear, and then squinted in pain

Oh, are we not going to kill her? If we do not kill her, everything can be discussed. As the saying goes, those who seek to survive will surely have future blessings. Although I think this way, Li Jinchao still said:

He looked at her without saying a word

Fu Linchun smiled and said, "I still want to do something in a roundabout way."

Even when wearing fine quality clothing, she still exuded a common air, lacking even a hint of the elegance of Yun Family Village. She reluctantly extended her index finger to point at a certain spot ahead, laughing and saying:

Lan Qing glared at her

If Young Master Chunxiang does not mind, my younger sister will rely on your reputation to make her way in the world from now on

"Is it Lanqing who has come to pick me up?" She thought for a moment, shrugged her shoulders, and chuckled, "I might as well go back."

Since she was eighteen, she has been longing for this, and this year she has finally waited for it! She is not afraid of having a few more blood eagles.

Lan Qing lightly scolded, "Stop messing around, if you want to cause a scene, do it at home. Everyone is still waiting for you."

In the night, her ink-black eyes rolled restlessly, yet they no longer reflected any desire or admiration. She glanced at the stars in the sky, a smile curling at the corners of her mouth, took a large step forward, raised her right hand high, and shouted joyfully

The Young Master Chunxiang has already sent someone over to convey the message

Her cheeks instantly turned a rosy red, which could be considered somewhat beautiful.

Lan Qing does it for her; she also wants to live, it's that simple. She purses her lips and lets out a deep sigh: "I was really scared to death," she says, striking his arm with a forceful punch. "I almost ruined one of my hands."

Fu Linchun indulged them in their revelry, acting as a laid-back and amiable master. After the meal, he sat at the main table, casually munching on sunflower seeds, undisturbed by anyone. Chunxiang, on the other hand, was a master of daydreaming; whenever someone spoke to him during his moments of distraction, the words would go in one ear and out the other, and he would forget them completely in no time.

Lan Qing raised his eyebrows and stopped in front of her, not helping her up, but instead gazing intently at the woman, his expression filled with the allure of springtime passion. He pressed his lips together, his eyes shimmering, smiling in an irresistibly enchanting manner

Lan Qing saw the lanterns clearly, and she could see Lan Qing embracing the woman whose clothes were half undone, entwined in a passionate kiss. Lan Qing supported the woman's back with one hand, and between her fingers was a silver needle.

Ha ha, if you had told me earlier, I would have made it very clear to you, and from then on, everything would be settled. Alas, I did not expect that people in the martial world are so cunning, handling matters in such a roundabout way

Normal Lanqing

"This is instructed by Young Master Chunxiang. Miss Li's house caught fire, and she was unable to bring out all her belongings, so please change into this new robe."

The disciples of Yun Jiazhuang looked puzzled, unaware of Chunxiang's intentions in mentioning this matter. The Third Young Master, who was nearby, changed his expression slightly. Although the Fu family was rooted in the grass-roots of the Jianghu, they were as particular about propriety as the most traditional scholarly families. Chunxiang was determined to completely extinguish Li Jinchao's hopes, leaving no room for any possibility.

"It doesn't hurt." The heroine in the darkness laughed, "Your arm has already been pierced, and I will paint an eagle on it. That blood eagle will burrow and burrow, drilling into your blood and bones, settling in your belly, and from then on, it will become one with you. In the future, whatever the organization asks you to do, you will do. If you resist, your belly will burst and your intestines will flow out"

Alright! Later, I will start a small fire at your place this morning. Since it is dry and easy to catch fire tonight, let everyone think that the fire at the fabric store and your home are both accidents. Yun Family Village has always been dedicated to helping others in this city and has gained a good reputation. This can be an opportunity for you to enter openly and aboveboard. He knew that with his own strength, if the Blood Eagles came in pairs, he would definitely be unable to take care of both this morning and the big girl at the same time

There is no hatred to speak of, who taught you that you are Boss Jin? We have put in a great deal of effort to find out that Li Jinchao is indeed Boss Jin. It is said that a cunning fox has three dens, yet you have spent seven months of the year in this city, which truly surprises us. As for the third master of the Yun family estate, we have matters to trouble you with

He did not ask her why her slender eyes were filled with a moonlight that seemed to shimmer like water; he simply chatted with her casually about the dishes and the weather, engaging in such simple and ordinary conversation.

"Yes, yes, please spare me, heroine. I will secretly transfer all the gold bars from the silver shop to you, box by box... It hurts, it really hurts!" The thin needle pierced completely through her arm. Mother, why hasn't she fainted yet? If she faints, it would be better than witnessing her own death with wide-open eyes!

"Mother, is it really necessary for you to speak so terrifyingly? Who have I offended?"

Bo Linchun gazed at her. He noticed that her left earlobe had turned pale from the cold, with blood pooling at the seam of her ear. He moved his fingers slightly but ultimately did not take action

The gate of Yunjiacun slowly closed

She was taken aback: "Everyone?" Her reputation in the city was not very good, as she had once brought some people home, both men and women. Some, like Lan Qing, were severely injured, while others were unwilling to return home and stayed with her for a while; now they were all friends.

She wiped her face, handed him the new clothes, and said with a smile, "I really am not used to wearing this outfit; I might as well return it to you."

She fixed her gaze on his back, then stubbornly turned her head elsewhere, her lips still curled into an exaggerated smile, her slender eyes squinting into a straight line, making it impossible for anyone to see the pupils that could speak.

Such behavior is simply foolish, and she knows it. Yet, she is unable to control this foolishness. Initially, she intended to go open the door, but then realized she was barefoot, so she hurriedly put on her shoes and then hopped to the door.

"Lanqing, are you all waiting for me?" Her voice was cheerful and happy, even carrying a hint of gratitude

"It doesn't matter." She always had a playful smile; "But when are we having the reunion dinner? I'm almost starving!"

In the middle of it all, he would occasionally cast his gaze upon her, lingering for a long time, then he would shift his attention to the distant pavilion, lost in thought about something unknown. As the day was nearing its end, he lowered his eyes and touched the object he had tucked away at his waist. After a while, when he raised his gaze again, his expression had returned to the warmth of the past, and he called out:

"Fu Linchun, that is the place where I first met you"

"......" The brilliance was overwhelming, and she was left speechless

The woman behind was taken aback and whispered, "Jin... Luyi?"

Someone chuckled. She had a somewhat down-to-earth demeanor, and the disciples of the Yun family village were all orphans who entered the village at a young age, primarily focused on learning to write history. They rarely encountered someone like her, so she quickly broke down their defenses, drinking, dining, and gossiping with them, becoming as familiar as if she had been born in the Yun family village and had never left.

Thinking of this, her heart raced again, and her palms began to sweat. The night breeze brushed against her face, and he approached in his apricot-colored garments, almost brushing against her sleeve. She turned her face away, her cheeks burning. How ridiculous; usually, when she saw men shirtless, she could comment on them without hesitation, yet now, just the accidental brush of his clothing against her made her heart feel sweet, and an endless warmth surged through her limbs. Even if she were to run naked at this moment, she would not feel cold

"Indeed," she replied, her cheeks warm.

Lan Qing hesitated for a moment and answered on her behalf

Little New Year's Eve, the night of parting