Chapter 3, circling the knees, pity the girl from whose family.

What came from behind was Changxi's exclamation: "Sister Qin!"

He waved his sleeve and left, I smiled bitterly, then laughed coldly

This person appears gentle and refined, with a dignified demeanor, yet is unexpectedly such a shameless individual. If given the opportunity, I will surely avenge Changxi's humiliation

He looked at me, and the disappointment that once appeared to be filled with resentment in his eyes had transformed into a quiet despair

Chunyu Wang sneered and said: "Why not? This king can capture them once, and he can capture them twice! Li Hong, you go personally to bring them in!"

As I turned to sit down and ponder whether there was a good solution, suddenly a wave of darkness enveloped me, and a stabbing pain surged through my head

Li Hong pressed the tip of the sword against me, glancing at the anxious longing nestled in my embrace. Slowly, he took out a porcelain bottle from his bosom, removed the wooden cork, and held it to Changxi's nose.

I picked up a piece of rice crust soaked in cold water and brought it to Xiaoxiang's lips

The guard saw this and hurriedly stopped, saying: "Little princess, this is not permissible"

My sword tassel was not given away for free

Chunyu Wang pressed his pale lips tightly together, yet did not respond immediately

He irritably said to Xiangsi: "Xiangsi, your mother is teasing you. You cannot eat what the patient eats, do you understand? Your mother still needs to rest. Since you have come to see her, you must not cause any more trouble. How about this: your father will take you out for a stroll, and he will buy you another set of those little porcelain figures that jump when touched, just like last time, okay?"

Chunyu Wang came to see me, but it was merely another instance of an unhappy parting. However, my circumstances began to improve significantly from that day onward

I hurriedly fished a pill out of my pocket and tremblingly stuffed it into my mouth

He is clearly also secretly imprisoning Changxi away from Wang Huo and the others. Even if I take her away, he would not dare to search and pursue us openly. As long as we safely leave Yongdu City, the chances of successfully escaping back to Da Rui will greatly increase

I chuckled lightly and said, "That is only natural. However, that sister in the white dress is younger and more beautiful than my mother. I must send her far away before I can feel at ease returning to accompany my longing."

He stepped aside to make way and lightly instructed, "Someone, go prepare a swift horse."

These two individuals, one large and one small, are both dressed in jade-white brocade robes, adorned with luxurious snow-white mink fur. They walk under the sunlight, as if their garments and faces are radiating a warm, golden glow, dazzlingly bright and striking to the eyes

The same thing happened several times, and gradually these guards and maids no longer regarded Xiangsi's visits as something terrifying. Even when I spoke with Xiangsi, the guards would no longer stand in front of us, watching as if they were facing a formidable enemy.

She accused him, and her gaze towards her father began to show evident dissatisfaction

What did you scold him for

However, the collar of her garment behind has been gently torn by me, and just a little further up, the fervent blood she currently feels for her mother’s injustice is about to surge forth.

I smiled and waved at her. Encouraged, she immediately took off her thick fur coat from outside and dove in headfirst from below.

I did not respond immediately, but slowly walked down the steps, subtly rotating the blade of my sword, inadvertently allowing a glimmer of cold light to shine in the sunlight, directly threatening his gaze

It is certainly an illusion

It is again Yingying

Little Xiangsi became puzzled: "Why must one eat vegetarian food when injured? Last time, I cut my hand while playing with Father’s sword and bled. Father even had someone make various kinds of pork rib soup and fish soup for me to nourish my body! Moreover... why have I never seen such dishes? Did you serve the food meant for Mother to that sister in white? Why do you accompany her every day and not my mother? I don’t want that sister to be my mother! No matter how beautiful she is, I don’t want her!"

After a long time, he curved the corners of his lips and slowly said: "Qin Wan, I can now be certain that you are by no means Yingying. There is no mother in this world who would threaten others with the life of her own flesh and blood."

The outside has long been tightly locked with iron chains, and through the narrow gap of only two fingers wide, I cannot even reach out my hand to touch her cheek.

Alright, let us take mother along!

However, who is the "sister in the white dress" that she mentioned

This person is not simple, yet their weakness is simple and fatal

Once again, he cried out to Chunyu Wang: "Father, you are bullying Mother, I will no longer pay attention to you! I will no longer pay attention to you!"

It was unexpectedly Chunyu Wang who entered the courtyard with Xiao Xiangsi.

Hearing that Changxi was not harmed, I breathed a sigh of relief, yet I held even greater disdain for this self-serving Prince Zhen. Coldly glancing at him, I said loudly: "Your Highness Prince Zhen, please prepare another swift horse for us!"

My body seems to be uncontrollably falling down, and I faintly hear someone calling out in panic: "Yingying..."

Seeing my father relent, I was filled with joy and secretly whispered in my ear: "Mother, that sister in white is indeed living in the Cui Fang Courtyard!"

The girl was extremely intelligent, immediately noticing the gap below and looking at me with surprise.

I walked over and indeed saw a large coarse porcelain bowl at the bottom of the courtyard gate, filled with more than half a bowl of rice, topped with some brownish-yellow vegetable scraps, which I could no longer identify as to what kind of vegetable it was. I picked up some chopsticks and stirred it, and as expected, I found that more than half of the rice was burnt and blackened, hard and cold like a stone

Before her tongue could make contact, Chunyu Wang had already flicked his sleeve, sending my chopsticks flying to the side, and of course, the crispy rice also fell to the ground

Although I strive to remain calm, my hands feel weak, and the tip of the sword resting against the side of my neck has begun to tremble involuntarily.

I broke the floating ice in the water tank by the courtyard wall, scooped a bowl of water into the teapot, and found a few broken branches under the plum tree. I managed to get a little fire going on the warm stove, heating the water just enough to have a slight warmth, which I used to soak that bowl of cold rice

I do not feel hatred or anger

No matter what one says about having a special affection or a heart that belongs to someone, it ultimately cannot withstand the allure of beauty before one's eyes

I immediately suspected that the strange fragrance was the problem, pointing the tip of my sword at Li Hong, I shouted: "Where is the antidote? Hurry and wake her up!"

He was clearly disturbed in the midst of his spring dream, and upon seeing his beloved daughter being restrained by me, his once tranquil eyes, akin to a cold pool, were now surging with waves, filled with resentment amidst disappointment and anger

I was momentarily stunned

On that evening, longing came to find me again, but it was weeping and wailing, coming to express its grievances

I gently patted the longing in my arms and softly said, "Longing, would you like to accompany mother outside the city just once?"

I endured the excruciating pain in my wrist, ready to muster my strength to resist the enemy, only to feel as if my blood was flowing slowly in that moment, rendering me utterly powerless and unable to exert even the slightest bit of strength

I chuckled lightly, "Exchanging my freedom for the young princess? His Highness, the Prince, thinks too highly of me! I am but a worthless life, how could I dare to compare myself with the precious body of the young princess?"

One who does not indulge in romance during youth is truly wasting their time. Being a royal brother, it is not surprising for him to have numerous wives and concubines. Why must he profess his deep affection, longing, and loyalty for his missing wife while simultaneously engaging in intimate relations with other women, entangled in confusion? Such a person wishes to play the role of a virtuous man while indulging in debauchery. He truly squanders his handsome and passionate appearance, unaware of how many genuinely devoted women he will harm.

She caught a glimpse of the food in front of me and curiously asked, "What is Mother eating?"

I handed her the tassel and smiled, saying: "Mother thinks of you every day. This is something that Mother has always kept with her, so take it as a memento! When you look at it every day, it will be as if Mother is watching over you."

"Why are you scolding me? Is it because I am not allowed to see my mother?"

Moreover, it is difficult to say whether the one in the bag is Princess Changxi or not

Chunyu Wang was fully on guard against me, as if only at this moment did he notice my cold stove and the porridge soaked in cold water, his pupils visibly constricting for a moment, frowning in silence

She is indeed a lovely and charming little girl, but unfortunately, she is the daughter of Chunyu Wang

Upon hearing the words of his beloved daughter, Chunyu Wang was astonished

Chunyu Wang's serene and cold face flashed before me, followed by the familiar faint glimmer of the Chengying Sword, which seemed to flicker in and out of existence, rushing directly towards my face

Chunyu Wang dotes on her to an extreme degree, and sooner or later, she will climb onto his head without any regard for the world.

As I was rubbing my aching stomach, preparing to stand up and move around, my vision suddenly dimmed.

He stood still in the courtyard, coldly staring at me, and slowly said: "Qin Wan, what do you want to do?"

The chaotic footsteps are rushing towards the distance, and it is likely that even more chaotic footsteps will arrive here shortly.

He did not tell me to stop, but rather shouted, "Shut up!"

I saw the head of longing had already penetrated in, and with a single pull on her shoulder, I easily drew her over.

He is clearly aware that I could never be his simple and lovely little wife

At her lively and active age, she likely possessed some of her mother's mischievous and playful personality. After visiting her father twice, she became familiar with the route to Qinfang Courtyard and would seize any opportunity to sneak over. Unfortunately, despite having many wet nurses and maids by her side, they could not keep track of this clever little girl, who was as lively as a monkey. Often, after she had chatted with me for quite a while, they would come rushing over in a panic, disregarding her cries, and would coax and drag her away.

Seeing me smile, she became even more delighted, leaning her whole body towards me, trying hard to get closer, and said: "Father told me to roll away, I will no longer pay him any attention! I will live with Mother, is that alright?"

He has already said several times that I am not Yingying, and I do not know whether he is reminding me or reminding himself

He said in a hoarse voice: "I do not want her to grow up and forget even what her mother looks like"

Chunyu Wang stared at me, his gaze growing increasingly as unfathomable as a deep well, with an expression that could not conceal his vigilance and anger.

The little longing has already joyfully called out: "Mother!"

I smiled and kissed the cheek of my beloved, saying: "Isn't this my dear baby? You have expressed all my thoughts! Your Highness, Prince Zhen, please hand over the person I seek. Once I take her out of the city, I will ensure that my beloved returns safely to your side."

I have not yet answered, but longing has already wrapped around my neck as she shouted to her father: "Father, Mother will not harm me. Mother said to send that sister in white far away, and then she will come back to live with us together!"

The little one seemed somewhat disappointed, her distinctly black-and-white eyes still gazing at me with lingering affection, murmuring: "Oh, I thought my father intended to hide my mother away from me, so that I could not see her!"

I also dare not act too hastily; every time I hear her calling from outside the door, I only speak to her through the courtyard gate. In fact, I just listen to her recite an ancient poem, sing a song from the Yuefu, and chatter about which maidservant has reported her misdeeds, ... when will Father go out again ...

As for the fact that Xiangsi rushed in to scold people, it was indeed expected

Palpitations and shortness of breath, limbs feeling weak, beads of sweat breaking out in waves, the palm gripping the sword damp and clammy, the Chengying sword in hand has unknowingly become as heavy as a thousand pounds.

I made every effort to dodge backward, barely avoiding the tip of the sword, yet I heard a "shh" sound as the front of my garment was torn open

He could certainly discern the implication behind my words, tightening his lips as he stared at me, his gaze sharp and taut like an arrow drawn to its full length, poised to be released.

The iron lock clanged urgently, and the two doors outside the courtyard were suddenly kicked open, followed by the hurried figure of Chunyu Wang accompanied by his attendants rushing in.

He has lost Yingying, yet he does not know whether the only flesh and blood he shares with Yingying is sufficient to exchange for the worth of Princess Changxi

Upon hearing this, Xiangsi clapped her hands in delight and said, "Great, great! We will drive her away, and then Mother will be together with Father, right?"

A distinct bitter scent spreads amidst the fragrance, seemingly diluting the rich yet peculiar aroma

It has been said that mother is unwell and needs to rest. Come on, let's go out now, shall we

Her eyes are round, dark, and bright, reflecting my smile, beautiful yet insubstantial, floating in the mirror as if unreal. However, her smile is so pure and sincere, her gaze as transparent as glass.

Could it be that we have fallen into their trap

I gazed at Chunyu Wang and Li Hong, hoping to discern a hint of insight from their expressions; they were clearly observing me with great care as well

At this moment, the courtyard gate rang again, and after the chains clinked for a long time, the gate creaked open with a sound.

As I slowly walked past Li Hong and was about to pass Chunyu Wang, I suddenly sensed something unusual

After a long time, I gently turned my gaze and looked behind him, hoping to see the familiar silhouette of Princess Changxi as I wished.

Using her body as a shield, I quietly guided her small hand towards the threshold, smiling as I glanced at her

I smiled faintly: "It's just a little trinket, consider it a small gift for your esteemed daughter! Does His Highness feel it is too modest?"

I scoffed, "Once the wine buried by Old Mei is consumed, what will you have left besides longing? Do you truly intend to leave nothing behind?"

The disdain in Chunyu Wang's eyes suddenly vanished

The weather on this day is quite pleasant, and most of the accumulated snow from the previous days has melted away. I untie my right hand, which has been bound for some time, and move it up and down a few times, discovering that its condition has improved significantly. The pain in my chest and abdomen, which had been aggravated by a harsh kick from Prince Rong, is no longer a constant discomfort. I believe that with a few more days of rest, I should be able to recover fully

I am indeed very pleased, and my pleasure is akin to the terror of the guards at this moment

Li Hong agreed and slowly walked over to untie the rope at the mouth of the cloth bag

But she is ultimately just a little girl who has nothing to do with me, and she is the daughter of my enemy

Upon hearing this, Changxi struggled to stand up, staggered to my side, tightly grasped my arm, and anxiously looked towards Chunyuwang. Her originally snow-white skin had already taken on an embarrassed flush.

Chunyu Wang gazed gently at Xiangsi, slowly curving a smile and replied: "Xiangsi, your mother will return."

Her lips are not only soft but also warm, and even her petite body is imbued with the fragrant warmth that lingers after shedding a thick fur coat.

Fearing that she might catch a chill, I hurriedly unfastened my outer robe and wrapped her closely within it, smiling as I said, "Mother is also very happy to finally hold the one she longs for in her arms"

The entrance is completely empty, and Chunyu Wang has long since vanished without a trace, with even the courtyard gate having been locked from the inside.

The guard stationed outside the courtyard gate had long received instructions; although he did not dare to offend the young princess, he also did not have the courage to open the door and allow her to meet with me.

I equally detest being looked at with such disdainful eyes, tilting my head and lazily smiling: "If you truly think I am malicious and dangerous, just tell her directly that I am not her mother, isn't that sufficient?"

The small hand that once embraced my neck has lost its initial warmth, now as cold as an ice cube

On such a cold day, I was drenched in sweat from the pain

Xiangsi Dao: "Alright, but Mother, you must not deceive me. Once that sister is sent away, you must come back to accompany me and Father!"

Chunyu Wang's feelings for Yingying and the pain he experienced after losing her are undoubtedly genuine; he could often lose his composure even in my presence. How could he suddenly start accompanying some beautiful woman in white every day?

Seeing the little longing still turning back to look at me, my heart raced, and I hurriedly tore off the tassel from the Chengying sword, rushing out to call: "Xiangsi!"

I turned to Chunyu Wang and said, "Your Highness, King Zhen, I am also deeply fond of longing. If I cannot take away the lively Princess Changxi, then I can only take away the lively Princess Xiangsi instead"

Chunyu saw Xiao Xiangsi leave my embrace, and immediately let go of me, turning around to hold Xiao Xiangsi in his arms, sitting on the other side of the table, smiling as he said to his daughter: "How could I hide your mother? It is the physician who said that as long as her injury is not healed, you cannot come to disturb her, do you understand?"

Her delicate skin is soft and tender, as if it could be easily broken with a gentle touch; the Chengying sword is one of the renowned swords in the world. Even if it cannot cut through iron like mud, it is already extremely sharp and can easily penetrate ordinary armor, let alone this thin, paper-like little child.

Our Princess Changxi grew up like a beauty surrounded by the stars, young and innocent. When she suddenly encountered a shocking change, she had no relatives or friends to rely on. Whether through seduction or force, it was not difficult for him to possess her

Chunyu Wang's deep affection for her is so poignant that even I cannot help but feel sorrow for him. How could he possibly become intimate with another woman?

Just as he was secretly pleased, the courtyard gate creaked with a sound

This time, the longing did not respond immediately

And of course, I can only deny it vehemently: "Your Highness, the Prince, if you are suspicious of me, you should not think so poorly of Princess Xiangsi, right? She was raised by you, after all, and naturally listens to your every command. If Your Highness were to instruct the princess not to come see me, would she still dare to insist on coming over?"

I sigh

No wonder what kind of woman could make this self-proclaimed infatuated Prince Zhi lose his senses; it turns out to be our proud Princess Changxi of the Great Rui.

But upon hearing the sound of "dang," the ever-present Chengying sword was nearly knocked from my grasp. A white shadow flickered before my eyes, a chilling wind rushed towards me, and Xiangsi let out a startled cry, finding that her embrace was now empty

I said he is not a good person, no wonder my mother wants to leave, he deserves to be lonely and ignored for the rest of his life. I said I will no longer pay attention to him, I will never pay attention to him again

What replaces it is a desperate and painful experience of standing at the edge of a cliff

Although she grew up in a life of luxury, seemingly indifferent to the nuances of food, she clearly still possesses the ability to discern the quality of dishes, as she was able to immediately notice that I had been "bullied"

I called out: "Princess, come to my side."

Chunyu Wang turned his dark eyes towards the cloth bag, nodded slightly, and the guard immediately lifted the bag and brought it before me

Only that slight tremor was noticed by Chunyu Wang

That little hand, warm and soft, so tender that it makes one's heart feel as soft as cotton

Chunyu Wang did not respond, his face darkened as he pulled his daughter away

I lowered my voice and confirmed with her again: "Are you really sure there isn't any?"

I saw his eyes flicker, and I knew something was amiss. Before I could react, he had already raised the sword he held in his left hand, though it remained sheathed. He swiftly struck my wrist with it, then flipped it upward, the sheathed sword having been inserted between the Xiangsi and my Chengying swords, forcefully knocking against the blade.

But I can no longer afford to feel sympathy for him; I can only strike at the vulnerable spots deep within his heart.

As the sword light flickered upwards, the sharp command of Chunyu Wang was finally heard.

One of the guards glared at me and muttered softly, "Don't you have hands yourself?"

No. He blames me for meddling in his affairs

I have been on very close terms with her elder brother, Prince Sidu Yong of Da Rui. Changxi has long been aware of my identity as a woman, and during the journey to deliver the bride, she did not avoid any suspicion, often chatting and laughing with me. If it were truly her, there would be no reason for her not to recognize my voice; she should have been struggling and calling for help long ago.

She seemed to be utterly convinced that I would never harm her, and as she writhed in my embrace, she showed no concern for the shadow sword that followed the movement of her neck.

I gently pinched and smiled, saying: "Indeed, you are a good child, always speaking up for your mother"

I slowly let go of my little infatuation and forced a smile, saying: "Yes, I am seriously hurt and can only quietly nurse my wounds alone. Once I have healed, I will accompany you to play every day, alright?"

She raised her head, directly facing the pair of eyes of Shang Chunyuwang.

My hands are cold, yet she has just walked out from the sunlight, her dress hem warm to the touch. When her small body nestles in my arms, it feels like a perfectly temperate heater, soothing my very insides with an extraordinary comfort

The bag opened, revealing half of Princess Changxi's body amidst a rich and peculiar fragrance.

I immediately recalled the words of longing and turned my head to ask: "Has he ever wronged you?"

Chunyu Wang was coaxing her while pulling her outside, no longer allowing her to have any contact with me, this scheming and wicked woman.

As I was busy, I looked up and saw his strategist Li Hong and two guards approaching with a cloth bag, bowing to Chunyu Wang.

Chunyu Wang glared at me with disdain and said angrily: "I will naturally keep an eye on her. You, as a woman, clearly have never been a mother; how could you understand the innate longing a child has for their parents? Next time, do not let me see you pretending to be a false, benevolent mother in front of her! A true mother would never have such a malicious gaze as yours"

I truly cannot think of where my gaze might be malicious; perhaps my disguise is indeed not thorough enough, or perhaps his gaze is even more venomous, which allows him to discern the emotions hidden behind my eyes

Of course, it is possible

I sighed, lowered my head, and continued to eat my lunch, which could hardly be called a meal, bite by bite, and it was only with great difficulty that I managed to swallow all the grains of rice.

I walked into the room, carried her to the warmth of the stove, and placed her slightly cold little hands near my lips to warm them with my breath. She blinked her large, bright eyes at me, and that pure, untainted admiration made me feel a sense of shame for what I was about to do

A thought suddenly sprang to my mind, causing me to hold my breath in tension, yet a smile remained on my face as I said to Xiao Xiangsi: "Do not blame your father, it is your mother who enjoys this herself. The taste is truly delightful, if you do not believe me, come and have a bite to try."

He was dressed in a jade white fur coat, loosely fastening his belt, and as he hurried along, loose strands of hair fluttered at his temples

She was originally supposed to call me "General Qin," but upon seeing me in women's clothing, she changed her mind and addressed me as "Sister Qin" instead. Whether it is General or Sister, I am now her only protector in this foreign land.

Hearing his last sentence, I realized that he had inquired about my background in detail, which sent a slight chill through my heart. I could only feign a relaxed demeanor and smiled, saying: "Your Highness, the Prince of Zhen, must be overthinking it. I find the Princess of Xiangsi, Yu Xue, quite lovely and I am very fond of her! How could I have any ulterior motives!"

The fruit of longing indeed often remembers me, having turned back to look at me four or five times within seven or eight days

Little Xiangsi pouted in dissatisfaction, "But Mother, it is so cold here! Why does it get colder the longer I sit?"

It did not seem too difficult, so I gently kissed her on the forehead and said, "Xiangsi, can you help your mother drive away that sister in white? Is that alright?"

I just came to take a look, not causing any trouble for my mother...

He has been longing for the delicate figure, unaware whether she is alive or dead, nor whether she is at the ends of the earth or the corners of the sea

Seeing Chunyu Wang standing there coldly, I sighed: "What a pity, this child was born into the wrong family, destined to have a father who is indifferent and a mother who does not care, at such a young age, to end up in such a dismal fate"

My father scolded me

I said, how could she be brought here in a cloth bag? It seems that Chunyu Wang's usual methods have failed, and he actually intends to drug her to carry out his plans. Such despicable behavior is no different from that of a lowly flower thief

The sword's edge sways slightly, and the longing is completely unnoticed

Chunyu Wang seemed to have reached his limit, suddenly exclaiming: "Xiangsi, this woman is not your mother; she merely resembles your mother. Your father loves you the most, and you must not listen to her nonsense."

The gap between the door and the threshold is neither too large nor too small; it is just enough for a slender child of five or six years to squeeze through. Moreover, both parents are martial artists, so their flexibility and agility are certainly much greater than that of ordinary people

I certainly do not wish to see his beloved in white; what I desire is for Princess Changxi to return safely with me to the State of Rui

Longing, stop immediately

The longing no longer felt cold, but instead looked at her father with suspicion and asked: "Father, do you really intend to have that sister in white and abandon me and mother?"

The longing is indeed joyful, as the tender little lips come close and kiss my cheek several times, laughing and saying: "Mother, I finally get to hold you!"

It seemed that upon hearing my words, he could no longer bear it. His handsome face turned pale and then flushed, and after catching his breath, he turned to the attendant behind him and said, "Go, bring that woman from the Cui Fang Courtyard here."

Chunyu Wang's gaze seemed to flicker with two clusters of flames, and with a frustrated huff, he ultimately did not dare to risk his own daughter. He glanced at Li Hong and said, "Go release her"

I recall the matter of longing he spoke of, regarding his kiss with that white-clad woman, and I feel a sense of disdain. In broad daylight, could it be that he was awakened from the bed of that white-clad woman by his attendants?

The guard was taken aback, and as he rushed forward, I had already embraced my longing with a beaming smile.

He arrived in haste, likely with ulterior motives, and did not dare to let too many people know about what had transpired here, accompanied only by a strategist and a few trusted attendants.

I am completely unaware of what value I hold for her. Upon seeing me treat her affectionately, she immediately interjected, saying: "Father, if you do not drive away that sister in white, I will leave with Mother and never return to see you again!"

Seeing him relent, I did not dare to relax in the slightest, but held tightly to my longing, wielding the Shadow Sword, and cautiously led Changxi out of the courtyard.

Rushing into the room, it leaped into my arms

But when she saw my gently outstretched hand, she seemed greatly comforted and extended her small palm to grasp my fingers

I saw him kissing that sister in white, so I ran in and scolded him

Xiangsi pouted and said: "Father is lying. She is clearly my mother, yet he insists she is not! Mother is absolutely right; it is because you have that sister in white that you no longer want Mother, not even considering me!"

They delivered the bag to me and then retreated to the side of Chunyu Wang. Although there was a certain distance between us, with one hand I held my longing and with the other I grasped my treasured sword. If I were to divert my attention to untie the bag, I feared I would be taken advantage of by others

This person, with wide sleeves and a broad demeanor, has already begun to breathe slightly heavily after running back and forth, and beads of sweat have appeared on his forehead. It seems he is indeed just a strategist without martial skills. I feel somewhat reassured, while keeping an eye on the surrounding movements and closely observing his actions

Changxi lowered her head, gently smoothing the creases on her snow satin garment, and shook her head slightly

I secretly felt ashamed, yet I held her even tighter, gripping the hilt of the sword and smiling at her, saying: "Well, longing is truly a good child of mother, so obedient!"

She sat sideways on the golden threshold, sobbing softly, trying to lean her little face towards me

Then, who was just calling Yingying?

Whenever she heard the maid come to fetch her, and she stubbornly refused to leave, I would instead advise her to return quickly, lest she upset the king.

The little girl, only about five or six years old, was extremely petite and very soft. When she leaned forward, almost half of her body fell between the threshold and the door leaf

I immediately understood that it was not Chunyu Wang who wished to see me, but rather the little girl in my arms who recognized me as her mother. Chunyu Wang had restrained me in advance, naturally fearing that I might have designs on his precious daughter

I rested her head on my shoulder, not looking at her, yet trying my best to soften my tone: "Alright, I will definitely come back to be with you and your father. However, your father is quite infatuated with that sister, so I will have to scare him a bit with you later, to force him to let me send that sister away. Do not be afraid, I will not truly harm you, do you understand?"

However, if I were to enter the house, my view would not be as clear as when standing in the courtyard, and in the act of moving, I might be taken advantage of by others. Therefore, I hesitated for a moment, only holding her a little tighter, and comforted her by saying: "Longing understands best, just endure a little longer! Look at your father, he is absolutely unwilling to part with that lady in white! If he insists on keeping that lady in white, your mother will only take you away from here, alright?"

The longing one shed her fur coat and crept into the courtyard, her clothing was indeed thin, and at this moment she was already shivering, curling up in my embrace, murmuring: "Mother, it is so cold outside, let us go back to the warmth of the stove in the room and warm ourselves!"

Dark as night, cold as ice, yet the corners of the mouth reveal a spring-like gentle smile akin to water

Once again, sweat poured down like rain. After a long while, I came to my senses and realized that I was sitting on the ground

The strategist named Li Hong sighed, casting a helpless glance at the longing in my embrace, and hurriedly took his two attendants away.

I have always dressed in male attire, and apart from the pouch containing my medication, I rarely wear any adornments. However, my status as a member of the Da Rui is considered noble, and that tassel, intricately crafted with gold and adorned with emeralds, is indeed exquisite. The white jade in the center, while not priceless, is certainly rare.

He wore a sullen expression and coldly warned me: "Qin Wan, I do not wish to make things difficult for you. If you behave yourself, at the appropriate time, perhaps I will allow you to return to the Rui Kingdom. But if you dare to have any ulterior motives regarding Xiangsi again, I will disable your hands and feet, and then let us see how you will bring glory to your Qin family!"

The grains of rice are still as hard as stones, causing pain in my throat as I swallow. However, such rice is quite filling; I believe that even if I were not provided with food for a day, I would not suffer from hunger.

Princess Changxi is indeed extraordinarily beautiful, a rarity in the world. He concealed her from his royal brothers, all for the sake of gaining an advantage in pursuing her.

His expression was pale as he walked to the door, only then seeming to realize the weakness in his tone. He quickly straightened his posture and said: "You are not Yingying. If you dare to stand between longing and Yingying, I will show no mercy!"

I am Qin Wan, certainly not his Yingying

Chunyu Wang pressed his lips tightly together, staring at his precious daughter. Suddenly sensing the mockery in my gaze, he immediately calmed down, reached for the sword at his waist, and met my cold stare.

I am not sure if I misread the situation, but it seemed that at the very moment I turned my gaze away, his eyes appeared to redden; however, when I looked closely again, all I saw in his dark eyes was a cold disdain, devoid of any trace of sorrow or grief.

After only a few interactions, I did not expect this child to trust and support me so much. I am unsure whether I should feel proud or guilty, and I find myself somewhat hesitant to look her in the eyes, instead casting a mocking glance at Chunyu Wang.

I sensed that something was amiss. Just as I was about to retreat with Changxi, my right hand suddenly loosened, and the Chengying Sword was unexpectedly seized by someone.

Longing and joy, I turned and ran to embrace it, gazing at the sky for a long time before finally holding it tenderly in my arms

Listening to the chaotic footsteps approaching from outside, I slowly drew the Chengying sword, and the smile at the corner of my lips gradually turned cold

I was taken aback

What I am waiting for is his panic. Only with his panic do I have my chance of victory

I lowered my head to look at my worn and dirty robe, and continued to eat my lunch

It turns out that Chunyu has returned after gazing, yet beside me, the longing has already vanished

Do I still not know who I am, needing him to repeatedly remind me

Moments later, Changxi's long, curled eyelashes fluttered as she slowly opened her eyes, her gaze wandering in confusion. Suddenly recognizing me, she immediately struggled to wriggle out of the cloth bag and called out, "Qin... Qin sister."

Chunyu Wang sneered and said: "Do you think I don't know? You are just afraid that your longing will make you forget her, and that you will no longer come to find her. Leaving that ear of grain for her is precisely to take advantage of her affection for her mother, to coax her into coming to see you again, so that you can take the opportunity to coerce her to threaten me, isn't it?"

Chunyu Wang did not look back and coldly commanded: "Send her back!"

The weather in the twelfth lunar month, although standing under the sunlight, does not convey the warmth of the sun. The biting wind weaves back and forth in the courtyard, one gust following another.

Unfortunately, I have never been a wealthy young lady, and I am even less willing to lose my freedom. As my body recovers, I am even less inclined to stay here as a prisoner for the rest of my life

What business is it of yours? What matters of his concern you?

Very good

Little Xiangsi looked at the dark object, hesitated for a moment, and then truly opened her pink, plump little mouth

Longing listens to my praise of her, even more pleased, like a kitten nuzzling in my arms, her body soft, her breath warm, and her eyes, as beautiful as her father's, shimmer like spring water, seemingly wanting to melt the hardest glaciers in one's heart

Amidst the thousands of horses and troops, I once severed the heads of my enemies with the same ease as slicing a watermelon, without even blinking. Yet at this moment, I found myself unable to look into her eyes

As I subconsciously reached out to touch her little head, suddenly a hand grasped my left shoulder, tightening its grip at the moment I raised my hand

At this moment, there was some commotion outside the door

I casually took two bites and swallowed before replying: "Of course, it is lunch. The imperial physician said that my mother has an injury and cannot eat anything too rich, so the meal is a bit plain."

Looking at the bulging yet motionless cloth bag, I could roughly guess what was inside. I could not tell whether it was worry or joy, but I did not show a hint of emotion on my face, and coldly commanded, "Open it!"

Longing struggles in Li Hong's hands, only to see me anxiously calling out: "Mother, Mother!"

Changxi's slender body trembled slightly as she tightly clutched my sleeve, lowering her eyelashes and softly saying: "Fortunately, it has stirred up here with my sister."

This person is indeed quite clever

She looked at me suspiciously for a moment, then raised her voice to her father, saying: "Father, are you coming out of the city with us? I fear that if Mother leaves the city, she will not be willing to return..."

Her skin is as smooth as fine jade, and her features are like a painting, yet her eyes are tightly closed, lost in a deep slumber.

He said: "Letting go of longing, I allow you to leave"

The strategist following him had changed his expression at that moment and stepped forward to whisper, "Your Highness, you must not!"

He sighed, saying: "I spent five years constantly telling her what an excellent and intelligent person her mother is. I do not want her to feel intimidated by the title of 'mother' because of you. If Yingying returns, and longing is as close to you as it is to Yingying, she will surely be very happy"

Because I bear some resemblance to Yingying, I fear that he originally attempted to seek a trace of comfort from me, but at this moment, he is compelled to awaken completely due to my actions.

Xiangsi nodded and said: "I know. Mother loves me the most, how could she hurt me?"

He was forced to squint his eyes by the dazzling light, and when he steadied his mind, he gazed at the sharp blade swirling around the white neck of his beloved daughter, his heart clearly stirred by a certain emotion

I was so astonished that I almost popped my eyes out

It is unclear whether Chunyu Wang had given instructions or if the servants themselves sensed certain cues, but that night I enjoyed a sumptuous dinner with meat, vegetables, soups, and pastries. Additionally, silver frost charcoal, clothing, and hot water were continuously delivered to my room every day. Aside from losing my freedom, my life was essentially no different from that of the young ladies born into wealthy families.

He smiled and said to me: "I told Xiangsi that you are recuperating and it is inconvenient for you to see her, but she does not believe it. Why don't you talk to her and let her know if your body needs some rest?"

I fell to the ground, and when I raised my eyes, Changxi had already been captured by Chunyu Wang's attendant. She only had time to call my name once before her mouth was covered with a cloth, and she was quickly bundled back into a sack and carried away.