Chapter Seven, there is hatred that no one understands

Qi Fengxiang nodded with a smile. Su Lili, with a grin on her face, said: "The sixth young lady of Lord Fu Qizhang from the Prefecture of Yunan, her beauty is renowned throughout the world, and she is said to be a celestial being. Once you conquer Yunan, you might as well take her home, gently unfurl the embroidered curtains, and spread out the bedding to ease the fatigue of your travels." As she spoke the last sentence, she herself laughed so hard that she bent over.

Qi Fengxiang held her hand, his fingers slowly combing through her finger bones one by one, as if in deep thought, yet he remained silent.

Qi Tai responded immediately, while Qi Fengxiang knelt on one knee and sat on the bed, pointing with his finger at the only part of Su Lili that was exposed, her head, and said, "Come out and take your medicine"

All Directions

It is a thing

Su Lili's interest was piqued as she said, "Then perhaps I will make a wish too." After pondering for a while, feeling as if she desired nothing, she silently recited, "Tree God, oh Tree God, grant me in this life food and drink, free from illness and disaster, a prosperous coffin business, and all the silver to come in." After a moment's thought, she felt it was a bit too mundane, and added, "In my lifetime, a simple existence; with songbirds as companions, and gray hair in old age."

Qi Fengxiang squinted his eyes and淡淡 interrupted, "What exactly is it that you want to say?"

*

Su Lili's face turned pale in an instant. She tugged at Qi Fengxiang's sleeve, and when she saw him turn to look, she quickly let go and said anxiously: "You... you mustn't be angry after hearing this. I was forced by him at that time and lied to deceive him. He actually knew that I was lying..."

Qi Fengxiang felt a bit displeased, but softened his voice and said: "No, your life is in my hands and won't be lost. Stop making a fuss and obediently drink the medicine. This is a renowned elixir prescribed by the famous healer Han Zheming from the martial world, which I had someone fetch from a thousand miles away." As he spoke, he carefully helped her sit up halfway.

The monk Jun was not angry, and calmly said: "My path is still shallow, and my words lack sharpness; there is no need for you to be angry."

There are rebels

Suddenly, I heard Qi Fengxiang's voice saying: "What are you catching it for? Did it provoke you?"

I thank you for your kindness, without saying that you have a heart as cruel as a wolf and as ungrateful as a dog

Qi Fengxiang, seeing her with a serious and focused expression, chuckled and said: "Are you perhaps praying for the coffin shop to prosper?"

Su Lili honestly reached out her hand, and two streams of true energy slowly surged from Taiyuan, converging at the Dantian. Her thoughts were unsettled, and she could not follow his true energy as she wished. After hesitating for a moment, she quietly asked: "Will you kill me?"

Qi Fengxiang rested his chin on her hair, the sensation soft and entangled, his tone indifferent and cold, "What is there to envy? Defeated in battle and dead, having achieved nothing, let it be buried then."

Su Lili was extremely astonished and after a moment sighed, "Such a large tree, a coffin made of solid boards nine inches thick could be made from several pieces of it."

Qi Fengxiang's face, as clear and bright as a sunny day, suddenly turned pale, "He ran away. It's surprising that he could still run despite his severe injuries"

Su Lili suddenly smiled and said, "You must have seen everything back then, right? You must have been laughing at how ridiculously foolish I was."

Qi Fengxiang let out a cold snort, "What do I see in you? What is there to look at in a child like you! I won't look at you; you would have long since perished in a riot of colors."

Half a month later, she began to feel restless. One day, as the sun rose, she finished her lunch and strolled around the perimeter of Qi Fengxiang's large tent. The distant trees were shrouded in mist, the mountains were enveloped in fog, and small pale yellow wildflowers dotted the grass. The season for blooming had passed; the butterflies were weary and the bees were sorrowful, most of them resting with their wings folded, perched on the tips of the grass.

The affairs of the Yingwen office have always been orderly and well-prepared, remaining calm in the face of chaos. At this moment, as the sky darkens, Su Lili finds herself without a place to dine, and her box is neatly filled with various delicate pastries. Additionally, there is a banknote worth one hundred taels of silver from the Jufeng Bank, which can be exchanged upon presentation.

There are some words that no one is willing to say first, as if whoever speaks first will be defeated. In matters of emotion, one feels as insignificant as an ant, and when they tentatively reach out with their antennae, they come to an understanding in their hearts.

Qi Fengxiang's gaze darkened slightly as he turned to look at Ouyang Tan

Is that wind a heart or an object

Qi Fengxiang's lips twitched slightly, and after a moment of silence, he said: "If you want to use it as a coffin, I will chop it for you."

After conversing for a long time, Zhao Wufang struck the young lady and then made lewd remarks, seemingly engaging in inappropriate behavior

Su Lili felt an overwhelming sense of familiarity and suddenly remembered that this was the bearded man who had deceived them at Taoye Ferry to go to Suiyuan. Now, having shaved off his full beard, he appeared somewhat more refined. Su Lili quickly moved closer to Qi Fengxiang and exclaimed, "Wang Meng!"

Ah? What nonsense are you talking about!" Su Lili exclaimed in astonishment

Some worldly troubles

In times of chaos, human life is as insignificant as grass, where survival only requires basic sustenance, and death merely necessitates a proper burial, with little demand for style, size, color, or craftsmanship. During this period, many simple coffins were made, characterized by a return to a solemn and ancient style. The lacquer is predominantly black, the decorative patterns are mostly simple, and the shapes tend to be rectangular. "Pausing for a moment, I couldn't help but explain, 'Because rectangular boards are easier to manufacture, making the process convenient and efficient..."

The monk Jun remarked, "How could this benefactor be entangled in sincerity of heart or conformity to circumstances? There must be some reason that makes this person difficult to approach"

A day later, he stealthily entered the garden alone at night, claiming he wanted to use my Su Garden. Naturally, I did not agree, and we ended up fighting. I was no match for him and was ultimately driven out. Several of my servants were killed by him. I was injured and, after several days of wandering in Taiping Prefecture without a plan, decided to disguise myself and cross the river to seek a friend in the capital. By chance, I encountered the young master at Peach Leaf Ferry.

Su Lili was both angry and amused, and then suddenly startled, "Why has my clothes changed?"

Su Lili cried out, "Get out of here!"

Su Lili pondered and said: "Turn around and leave..."

He casually picked up a piece of winter melon pastry and slowly savored it. The sky gradually darkened.

Su Lili only opened one eye, squinting at him with a hint of hesitation, yet it also revealed a touch of playfulness. Qi Fengxiang chuckled and said, "What kind of ghostly appearance is this?"

A thousand years in the world is but a fleeting moment

From a distance, the forest appears to rise with a sense of harmonious auspiciousness, exuding an ethereal grace.

Su Lili grasped his arm, took a couple of breaths, and whispered, "Uncle Cheng is the one who harmed him; I want to kill him"

Entering was Qi Ta, the attendant beside Qi Fengxiang, who placed a bowl of thick, dark medicinal liquid on the long table by the bed

Qi Fengxiang listened to her cry, feeling utterly helpless, and sighed, "It is not worth it to suffocate to death."

That night, Su Lili slept very restlessly. In her dreams, many people were rushing back and forth, their faces indistinct. The dream was vague and shallow, chaotic and disordered, as if there was the sound of a needle dropping on the ground in the silence, the faint sound of metal clashing piercing directly into her heart. She suddenly woke up, and it was precisely the early hours of the morning.

The monk Jun said: "Be sincere to your own heart"

He slowly raised his hand to point at the main hall, saying, "This makes sense, but since the temple is in such disrepair, I would like to gather alms to renovate it before considering returning to secular life."

The monk Jun was taken aback by her question, hesitating for a moment before responding: "I believe that if one is sincere at this moment, one would burn their hands; if one follows the external circumstances, one would lose what they seek. While it is indeed important to face one's intentions with honesty, one should also avoid attachment. In my humble opinion, at this moment, one should turn and leave."

Su Lili smiled somewhat forcedly and murmured, "Are the coffins of Chen Beiguang and Xiao Jie really worth only one hundred taels?"

Su Lili suddenly opened her eyes, "How do you know? Uh, not just that, there is also the transformation of misfortune into good fortune and encountering good luck in times of trouble"

In the blink of an eye, it is July again. On the seventh day of the seventh month, Su Lili thought for a long time and decided to visit the grave of Uncle Cheng.

Qi Fengxiang laughed, "Ribs are the most useless. I had a fight with someone in my early years and even broke some. I didn't even realize I had broken them. Now there are the best doctors; after resting for two days, you can walk and sit again"

Qi Fengxiang shook her head, "I cannot leave. You all go ahead, and Ying Wenzhao will take care of her." Su Lili turned her head and saw Ying Wenzhao standing on the small boat. She looked back at Qi Fengxiang with some anxiety, feeling that the sudden change had left her with mixed emotions.

Chen Beiguang's former subordinates

Su Lili wanted to say, "How could you become a monk when you are so handsome?" However, upon further reflection, she found this statement rather unreasonable and swallowed her words.

Su Lili tightly grasped his arm, "How do we get this out?"

Su Lili felt somewhat unsatisfied, "Oh, oh, then please feel free, Master. May I ask what your Dharma name is?"

Ouyang Tan waved his hand and said: "I cannot defeat him, and I am also afraid he will recognize me. I only intend to scare him, so that he does not dare to act recklessly. However, the words the young lady spoke to him were quite inappropriate; if he spreads them, I fear for your life as well."

Su Lili realized there was no way to avoid it, so she steeled herself and said, "He knows who I am, I said..." She glanced at Ouyang Qin, "I said that thing is already in your hands, the key is with Shi Yizhi. Of course, he didn't believe me, saying that you would definitely kill me, and then he slapped me twice... He also said I was quite good-looking, and you were interested in me... Then... Mr. Ouyang jumped out."... He also said I was quite good-looking, and you were interested in me... Then... Mr. Ouyang jumped out.

The monk Jun, however, did not take it to heart and said, "What solution are you seeking, benefactor?"

Qi Fengxiang laughed heartily, yet feigned anger as he said: "How utterly shameless, you are now saying anything and everything."

Qi Fengxiang and Su Lili walked back along Liyu Road, where the view was expansive and the road was flat. By the roadside, a person was sitting cross-legged on a large stone. Upon seeing him, Su Lili was taken aback. The person was dressed in a full set of rain gear, with a bamboo hat placed beside him. His facial features were strong and resolute. At that moment, seeing them approach, he smiled slightly and said, "Young Master Qi, it has been a long time."

Su Lili simply sat on the mat, hugging her knees and said: "Master, since you are a monk, you must have read quite a few Buddhist scriptures, right?"

Su Lili was naturally quite clever. From a young age, she was personally taught to read and write by Ye Zhiqiu. Although she lost her father at the age of eight, her foundation had already been established. In her spare time, she also read various books and remembered some historical anecdotes. She then asked, "Master, the Sixth Patriarch Huineng once pointed to a scripture banner and said, 'It is not the wind that moves, nor the banner that moves, but the heart of the benevolent that moves.' Should a person be sincere in heart, or should they conform to the circumstances?"

Su Lili lazily stifled a yawn, saying, "I didn't provoke you; I just wanted to catch you to play with." Turning around, she saw him in his long sleeves and tall boots, originally a figure of heroism, yet possessing a strangely relaxed demeanor that seemed to transcend the mundane. The harmonious blend of these two qualities was unexpectedly poetic.

Ying Wen nodded and said, "You must be careful when you return to Taiping."

Su Lili did not respond

Ten days later, there was new news from the capital. Young Master Qi had moved his troops from Taiping Prefecture, heading straight for the southern region of Henan to confront Xiao Jie. He achieved a great victory over the enemy's vanguard at Huifeng and was currently pursuing the remaining forces. As Su Lili looked at the announcement, the crowd sighed in admiration, praising Young Master Qi's extraordinary valor.

Ah—" Su Lili's voice trailed off with a trembling tone, then she buried herself back into the quilt

It is unclear whether it was the efficacy of Mr. Han's bitter medicine or the strength of Qi Fengxiang's vital energy, but after seven days, she was indeed able to get out of bed and walk. However, the second rib on her right side, when touched lightly, would cause a faint pain. Yet, as Qi Fengxiang had mentioned, the rib was not subjected to much pressure during her movements, sitting, or lying down, so it was not too uncomfortable.

Su Lili felt somewhat embarrassed and stood up angrily, saying: "How can you, a monk, speak like this!"

Upon hearing this, Qi Fengxiang's expression remained unchanged, yet his demeanor grew more profound. No longer looking at her, he turned to Ouyang Tan and said, "Brother Ouyang, is it just to say this that you are waiting here?"

The Buddha said: "Desire in a person is like holding a torch while walking against the wind; it is bound to cause burns to the hands"

Qi Fengxiang sneered, "So you know as well. If something were to happen, it would be well-deserved. You should learn to let go of life and death!" With that, he threw down the tent curtain and left.

Su Lili was pulled apart by the corner and indignantly said: "You... you can shoot him with an arrow!"

Su Lili glanced at it, wrinkled her nose, and said, "What is this smell? I won't drink it; it looks bitter."

Qi Fengxiang replied briefly, "I know." He tugged at the reins and turned to leave, showing no hesitation.

The monk Jun let out a sound of "Oh," and said, "All sentient beings, each has their own karmic obstacles"

Su Lili watched as his figure disappeared into the darkness of the night. She was pulled onto the boat by Ying Wen and entered the cabin, instructing the boatman to set sail. Looking out from the porthole, Su Lili saw the riverbank gradually receding, with the flowing water contrasting against the blazing flames on the opposite shore. The entire camp had caught fire, and the waves on the river carried the flickering light, making it even more dynamic. Su Lili was finally able to return home, yet she felt a twinge of sadness in her heart

The humble monk has studied the "Sutra of Forty-Two Chapters as Spoken by the Buddha"

The two individuals walked back while laughing and joking. Once their figures had receded into the distance, in the quiet mountain forest, a small sapling swayed its branches slightly, and from its trunk came a clear and youthful voice, "Boss, that handsome guy has left"

Qi Fengxiang's vital energy suddenly became chaotic, surging through her meridians. Su Lili let out a sigh, and in an instant, Qi Fengxiang released her grip, angrily exclaiming: "Why do you think every day that I want to kill you?! If I wanted to kill you, I would just leave you lying outside the city gate, so why go through all this trouble to save you?!"

Early the next morning, Su Lili began to sweep the courtyard and opened for business. Under the governance of the Qi family, the capital had regained some vitality, unlike the dire situation during the coup led by Bao Hui last year. However, the business of the money shop had been completely plundered during the turmoil of war. She checked her savings from the previous year and found that she could only withdraw a little more than half. She took out the money and exchanged the one hundred taels of silver from Yingwen, then went to the lumber yard in the city to purchase some scattered materials, which she had transported back home. She also visited the small workers she used to employ; two of them were still there, so she agreed on their wages and instructed them to come to work every morning starting the next day.

Su Lili sneered, "So foolish! With so many people chasing one, and yet they still let them escape, haha..." The laughter was a bit too wild, causing her wound to pull, and she let out a cry of pain.

Su Lili should not, he coaxed: "Good, be obedient." He reached out to pull the quilt aside

Su Lili's forehead and face were covered in fine sweat. She slowly got up and washed her face with the hot water in the basin. After sitting quietly for a moment, she found that she could not fall asleep. Gradually, she put on her clothes and suddenly heard very faint footsteps passing by the edge of the tent. She did not light a lamp, but walked to the tent door and lifted the curtain slightly to look outside.

The young sapling, lacking in composure, became excited, its branches trembling wildly. "Ah... do you think those two can make it?!"

Su Lili angrily said: "How can I compare with you? What you have in your ribcage is a heart of iron and stone."

The man laughed heartily, leaped down from the large stone, and bowed, saying: "I am Ouyang Tan. The other day, I was rude to you, and I hope you can forgive me."

All directions

Su Lili lowered her head and said, "Hmm," "It was Mr. Ouyang who jumped down from the tree, and Zhao Wufang had a physical altercation with him, and this... this matter passed."

But Su Li quickly came over and gulped it down.

Who is the one that has taken off ... ... ?

From a lush bluestone path, she walked straight to the stone steps in front of the temple gate. Qiyun Temple has been established for many years, yet it has also fallen into decline for many years, far less prosperous than the Grand Buddha Temple in the east of the city, which boasts a grand site. The plaque inscribed on the wooden beam of the temple gate seems to be on the verge of falling, while the columns on either side still bear the couplet: "The ancient hall is illuminated by the moonlight, the mountain gate remains unlocked waiting for the clouds to seal." The meaning of the text is already desolate and empty.

"Are you a monk?" Su Lili exclaimed in surprise

Yingwen sat across from me with a slightly furrowed brow, seemingly troubled. She asked, "What's going on?"

Qi Fengxiang was somewhat at a loss, and stood up saying, "Why is it that whenever you encounter me, nothing good happens? In Sui Garden, I hinted for you to leave first, but you ended up getting lost, causing me to be scolded. That slap from Shi Yizhi, I didn't pull you towards it, I pushed you to leave, but you didn't go and instead ran back and got knocked out. Although later on, I scared you a bit, in the end, it was just a scare, I didn't do anything to you. This time it's even better, I slipped away without a sound, and suddenly jumped out in front of the formation. Although later on, I scared you a bit, in the end, it was just a scare, I didn't do anything to you. This time it's even better, I slipped away without a sound, and suddenly jumped out in front of the formation. What do you want me to do? Should I let him catch you in front of the entire army?"

Su Lili choked back her tears and said, "Just suffocate me to death."

The camphor tree seems to be aware of the praise it receives, its lush green canopy resembling the roof of a grand house, exuding a delightful atmosphere from its treetop to its roots

He indulgently stroked her hair, "You are being a bit too greedy. Previously, I had you make two coffins, which are just right for use. 'The Resolute Man' refers to Chen Beiguang."

Qi Fengxiang smiled helplessly, then sat back down by the bed and said: "At that time, I was busy saving you and couldn't pay attention to him. He rushed into the forest with an arrow wound, and it would be difficult to search even with more people."

Qi Fengxiang rode over, his expression stern, and extended his hand to her. Su Lili stepped onto the stirrup and sat on his horse, whispering, "How did you know I was here?"

Qi Fengxiang smiled faintly, "The locals here say that there is a large camphor tree two miles into the mountain from this valley entrance, which has been growing for over a thousand years. It is the local earth deity. I have been to see it, and the path is still quite passable. Since you are so bored, why not let me take you to have a look."

Su Lili gasped more intensely, "Ever since I met you, there have been no good things... sooner or later, I will die, boo hoo..."

Ah? This time I am angry, did you see me... did you see me?

Qi Fengxiang was about to continue his mockery when someone outside the tent reported: "Young Master, the medicine is ready."

Su Lili turned and ran towards the back of the tent. Whether it was due to the darkness obscuring her vision, she surprisingly found the right direction, exited the main camp, and as soon as she sat down in the grass, she saw chaos in the four camps ahead, with flames soaring into the sky and shadows of people mingling, making it impossible to distinguish who was who. In what felt like a moment of tea brewing, Su Lili seemed to have lived through countless years.

Su Lili honestly said: "A little."

The old camphor tree pondered for a moment, its branches and leaves breathing in and out, embodying the profound subtleties of the mystical path. A grand and distant voice resonated throughout the realm of the law, declaring: "Calm—Steady—!"

At this moment, her heart was sincere, yet there was an unprecedented certainty. She silently knelt on the meditation cushion, staring blankly for a long time, letting out a soft sigh. As she turned to get up, her peripheral vision caught sight of a young monk with a shaved head sitting in the corner of the main hall, partially obscured by the prayer flags, wearing an old cloth robe and gazing at her with a serene expression. Su Lili gasped and fell back onto the cushion, exclaiming, "Are you... are you a human or a ghost?!"

Su Lili said: "Indeed. In fact, everything in the world is interconnected; mastering one thing allows one to understand others. Take building a house for example, or consider coffins. In prosperous times, when people have money, their desires after death also become more refined, leading to a variety of coffin styles. For instance, there are line carvings, relief carvings, lacquered coffins with gold and silver, those inscribed with 'Longevity' characters, and designs featuring pine and cranes symbolizing longevity. Additionally, there are distinctions between square-headed, round-headed, recessed, and protruding panels.

Ouyang Tan said: "Since you have guessed that I am the master of Su Yuan, you must also be aware of the underlying circumstances. I have been living a quiet life in Su Yuan, and although Chen Beiguang has summoned me several times, I have declined to go. Last November, Zhao Wufang, whose origins are unknown, came to my garden with that woman for a visit. From our conversation, I could discern her cunning thoughts and ruthless methods, which made me reluctant to form a connection with her"

Su Lili looked up and around, saying: "The wood used in this main hall is excellent; the beams and columns are made of rare materials that are hard to come by in a century. It would be easy to repair. The couplets at the temple gate are serene and clear. In these chaotic times, this temple does not need to be as grand as the Great Buddha Temple; simplicity and elegance will suffice"

The few individuals immediately turned their gaze towards her. In an instant, a flash of white light appeared, and a blade had already cut down one person. Ouyang Qin brandished her sword and leaped forward to engage in battle with the others. Among the remaining individuals, someone ignited a firebrand and threw it to the ground, causing Qi Fengxiang's large tent to catch fire immediately

No one has come back.

Enter.

The bald man has a handsome face, not as charming as Yingwen's beauty, but with the elegant charm of a bamboo forest gathering. He clasped his hands together, with a string of Bodhi beads the size of longan hanging from his palm, and said gently, "The donor is too devout to notice that the humble monk is sitting here. The humble monk dare not disturb the donor."

Su Lili remained silent for a while, then suddenly asked, "Does it take several months to recover from a broken rib?"

Qi Fengxiang asked lightly: "Is there still this matter?"

In Qifengxiang's voice, there was a hint of laughter as he said, "I remember when I first met you, you casually deceived me at the Dingling Cemetery, saying that as long as we are devoted to each other, we will never be separated, which represents the true meaning of the world. Is this truly your intention?"

Can their wishes come true?

On this beautiful day, I carried a basket and filled it with paper candles to pay my respects at Huangyang Hill. After the ceremony, I didn't want to linger in my sorrow, so I took a leisurely stroll outside the western outskirts of the city. From afar, I saw a house with a hook on its roof, nestled among the trees on a small hill. Suddenly, I remembered that it was the Qiyun Temple where Wood and Qi Fengxiang had arranged to meet.

Qi Tai respectfully said: "Mr. Han listened to me and said that Miss Su's injury was handled very well at the time. As long as she wakes up, she should take this medicine every other day, and after seven days, she can get out of bed and move around. After taking the medicine for half a month, she can stop. For three months, she should avoid running and jumping; otherwise, there are no major issues."

Su Lili slowly leaned against the pillar and sat down on the eaves step, feeling a slight pain in her ribs. She sat for a long time before reaching out to open the box that Ying Wen had given her.

Su Lili quietly ascended the stone steps, facing the Hall of Guidance. Two of the Four Heavenly Kings had fallen, leaving only two standing at the side. After crossing the slightly uneven bluestone floor of the courtyard, she arrived at the main hall. The offerings in front were relatively orderly, with three meditation cushions arranged on the ground. Su Lili looked up, and the statue of Shakyamuni appeared solemn and compassionate, its weathered form seeming to have endured the vicissitudes of time.

As he went far away, Su Lili slowly turned to the main entrance of the street. Su's Coffin Shop seemed like a world apart. She reached out to lightly touch the words "Temporarily Closed" on the door, vividly recalling the day when Qi Fengxiang mocked her. It had been half a year since she last left. Suddenly feeling a sense of urgency, she hurriedly ran to the back corner door, opened it, and entered the inner courtyard

Qi Fengxiang thought for a moment and said, "Since he covets the imperial edict, his ambition is not small. Sooner or later, he will die by my hands."

Amidst the flames, more than ten riders rushed out. As they approached, she saw that the leader looked like Qi Fengxiang. However, she was not entirely sure and did not dare to act rashly. The man on horseback hesitated and looked around, then shouted towards the wilderness. Su Lili immediately shouted back, "Here."

Returning all the way back to the camp, Qi Fengxiang didn't even look at Su Lili. He took Ouyang Qin directly to meet with the various commanders and had a pleasant conversation. When Su Lili was sitting in the main tent feeling bored and about to go to sleep, Qi Fengxiang came in. He sat down and said, "Give me your hand."

He said softly, "Don't be afraid, I won't harm you."

Qi Tai shook his head and said: "It's still the same as before. Mr. Han said he couldn't find anyone with continuous internal energy to assist him; I'm afraid he won't be able to recover."

Su Lili gritted her teeth in anger, yet found herself unable to refute him. She then resentfully asked, "What about Zhao Wufang?"

Su Lili stood behind him, unable to help but wonder how Qi Fengxiang would react if he heard her discourse on the trend of coffins. He would surely either smile in approval or mockingly praise her for her eloquence. Regardless of whether her words were trivial, ignorant, or fearless, Qi Fengxiang always listened patiently to the end before offering his guidance.

Qi Fengxiang relaxed slightly, pondered for a moment, and asked: "How is Jiang Qiudi?"

Ying Wen hesitated for a moment and sighed, saying: "I fear it is the eldest son’s doing. Brother Qi, your achievements this time are rather too remarkable, and some people cannot sit still."

Su Lili found it difficult to say anything further. Turning back to look at the water's surface, which gradually widened, she felt as if people were like flowing water, forever unaware of where they would flow or what kind of gatherings and separations lay ahead.

He said softly, "Go ahead." Releasing her waist, he helped her down from the horse. Su Lili slid down from the horse's back, still gazing up at his handsome silhouette outlined against the night. However, Qi Fengxiang no longer looked at her, and replied to Wen, "Take her back, you go to https://m.hetushu.com.com and wait for me at Huifeng."

For a moment, both fell silent, only feeling the gentle breeze in the woods brushing against their faces, soft and cool, leaving their thoughts in a haze. Su Lili softly said: "It would be better to bury Chen Beiguang and Fang Shuqing together, having died together like that."

Immediately, fires broke out everywhere in the camp

At this thought, I could no longer restrain my emotions and slowly walked over. As I walked, my mood was far from calm. When Mu walked along this path, she must have gazed upon the same mountains and trees, yet her mind was occupied with how to prevent Qi Fengxiang from troubling her further.

Ouyang Qinqi said, "Later, when you all were unwilling to engage, I speculated that you had ulterior motives in Jibei, likely to deal with Chen Beiguang, so I remained in Taiping Prefecture to observe the situation. On the night of the decisive battle at Chengfu, I hurried over from Taiping Prefecture and passed by a thatched cottage in the mountains, where I unexpectedly saw Zhao Wufang conversing with this young lady." He pointed at Su Lili.

Qi Fengxiang extended his arms to embrace her, allowing her back to rest against his chest, treating it as a moment of rest. Su Lili felt somewhat stiff but allowed him to hold her. After a while, Qi Fengxiang asked: "Are you afraid of me?"

Ouyang Tan's expression suddenly changed as he said: "If I were seeking fame and fortune, why would I need to find you? If you do not believe me, then consider that I have said nothing." After saying this, he turned and left

You are covered in mud, your knees are swollen from the fall, and your wrists are scraped. Are you really just going to lie there

Speaking thus, he composed himself and solemnly wished in his heart: "In my lifetime, I shall strive to bring peace to the world, to restore order within the realm, and to establish a prosperous and harmonious society"

I cannot leave right now, as I have other matters to attend to

The tree was originally very tall, but due to its thick trunk, it appeared short from a distance. Its branches twisted and stretched, resembling a swimming dragon, shaped like an umbrella, exuding a graceful aura that made one forget the mundane upon seeing it. As they walked under the tree, Qi Fengxiang stopped her and said: "I once had my soldiers encircle this trunk; it took eleven men holding hands to wrap around it."

The old doctor in the army has retired

Su Lili felt somewhat fatigued, her shoulders relaxed and her head drooping. "You might as well spare it; it has been difficult for it to survive all these years."

Well... it can be done

Su Lili paused for a moment, furrowing her brows and said: "Why would that person go against the wind? Could they not go with the wind instead?"

Qi Fengxiang laughed more maliciously and said: "You are lying in my general's tent, and you still want me to go out?"

Su Lili saw a small, delicate pink-and-white butterfly folding its wings, resting on a wooden fence. On a whim, she extended two fingers and slowly moved closer to catch it. When she was just a few inches away, the butterfly shook its antennae and gracefully flew away. Su Lili did not pursue it; instead, she stood still and smiled at it.

Qi Fengxiang sneered, "Do you think Zhao Wufang is just idly sitting by? No matter how fast the arrow flies, he can easily deflect it with a slight movement. It would be better for me to choose a less harmful spot and strike lightly."

His gaze was profound and inscrutable. "The ten directions of the void realm are the eight directions known to the benefactor in daily life, plus the upper and lower directions, collectively referred to as the ten directions. The Buddha is present in the ten directions of the world, knowing all and understanding all." He held the alms bowl, no longer paying attention to Su Lili, and rose to leave.

She picked up the basket and walked out of the temple gate. Standing on the stone steps, she saw a blue cloth-covered cart parked at the end of the sidewalk

The monk Jun nodded and said: "Indeed, sailing with the wind allows one to see clearly and illuminate all beings"

Qi Fengxiang said: "You are not being abrupt; rather, you are playing your role exceptionally well, having deceived me. However, I do not understand how Zhao Wufang could be residing in your Suiyuan"

He withdrew his hand, his expression calm, as if stating a fact, "But if I were to do it again, I would still shoot you with an arrow"

Su Lili heard his heavy breathing, turned her body slightly, and caught a glimpse of a broken arrow shaft hidden in the fabric of his chest and abdomen. Su Lili grasped his arm, and upon seeing the arrow shaft, it was evident that the arrowhead was embedded in his body. Qi Fengxiang noticed her gaze on the broken shaft and actually smiled gently, "My retribution comes swiftly, doesn't it"

Exactly

Su Lili pulled the blanket over her head. Qi Fengxiang attempted to lift it, but she held on tightly to prevent him. Naturally, Qi Fengxiang could not exert all his strength to pull it away, fearing it might aggravate her injury. "Let go, don't suffocate yourself"

When I was in Youzhou, I attended a banquet at General Qi's residence with friends and met the young master once. At Taoye Ferry... I thought of introducing you to Suiyuan to deal with Zhao Wufang. It would be best if you two fought, so that I could profit from it... He appeared slightly embarrassed.

"Isn't he just talking nonsense?" Qi Fengxiang frowned, his gaze resembling the shimmering surface of water in the dark night. "Even the abbot of Shaolin does not possess this level of skill." After a pause, he added, "You may leave for now. Continue to prepare the medicine as usual in the next couple of days."

Qi Fengxiang, slightly coming to his senses, replied softly, "Hmm? I don't know, just a feeling."

She smiled and took a can of glossy paint for coffin boards home.

Su Lili lowered her head and argued, "I am merely afraid. If the rumors about Zhao Wufang truly spread, your father and brother will undoubtedly question you. In order to protect yourself, it is inevitable that you might kill me to silence me"

The sapling asked: "Why were you trembling just now?"

The few people shouted: "Fire, fire!"

The thick trunk of the camphor tree murmured in a deep tone: "Hmm..."

Su Lili let out a slight sigh of relief upon hearing him add: "I helped a little from the side"

Qi Fengxiang nodded and smiled, saying: "Brother Ouyang speaks candidly about the matter, truly a man of integrity."

As long as there are coffins to be made, there is nothing in this world that cannot be overcome. Qi Fengxiang once joked that with her intellect, she had been in business for so many years without being sold off. However, once it came to making coffins, Su Lili felt incredibly astute and exceptionally skilled. There are many things in the world that she cannot grasp, but this is something she can master and excel at.

Do you remember any key phrases

As the reins were pulled, the horse galloped steadily out.

Even if she were to harm her and the books, she could not escape. Su Lili relaxed a bit, leaning against his chest. Qi Fengxiang inhaled the scent of her hair, and as he lowered his head, his lips brushed against her earlobe. Su Lili turned her head away, remaining silent.

Su Lili adjusted her garments and said irritably, "Then why are you still a monk? You might as well return to secular life."

Qi Fengxiang gazed into her eyes, seemingly enchanted, and gently lowered his head to place a soft kiss on Su Lili's forehead. The tender sensation lingered with his breath, momentarily distant, yet something stirred within him like the mist rising in the mountains.

At dawn, they disembarked to change horses. Su Lili's old injuries had not yet healed, and she traveled very slowly. By the time they reached the capital, it was already ten days later. Entering the city gate in the twilight, Ying Wen directly took her to the back door of Ruyi Fang in a carriage, handed her a box, and said: "Your home is safe for now, so stay for a while. I need to leave the city before the gate closes, and I won't say much more. Be careful in everything."

Qi Fengxiang patiently coaxed: "Good medicine tastes bitter; if you drink it, I will give you candy."

The monk Jun raised his eyebrows slightly and said, "Do you still know how to build a house?"

Every day, he held Su Lili's wrist, channeling his internal energy into her body, from the Tian point to the Jiuwei and Juque points, then dispersing it to the Qimen point, winding back to the Yufu, steadily reinforcing her injured lung meridians. Su Lili initially did not understand the preciousness of a martial artist's true energy, and since she felt that he was the one who had injured her, she accepted it without shame or guilt.

Su Lili felt that his breath was uneven, marked by an unusual silence. After about a stick of incense's time, they arrived at a stretch of shimmering water, reaching the riverbank where a small boat was moored. Qi Fengxiang brought the horse to a stop on the flat ground by the shore and leaned close to her ear, saying: "This is the upper reaches of the Weishui River. You should follow Yingwen over there; I will have him take you home."

Qi Fengxiang observed him turn around and slowly said: "Brother Ouyang, you are kind to assist me, but I cannot accept it disrespectfully"

Su Lili looked eagerly into his eyes, which reflected the shimmering waves, with a flickering brilliance flowing forth, calm yet resolute. In that moment, she felt somewhat fragile and said softly, "Let us go together"

Dust has accumulated on the window frames, and the note is still pinned to the post, fluttering slightly in the wind, stained with traces of rainwater. The unfinished coffin remains as it was when she left, the bedding in the room is neatly arranged, and the table is covered in dust.

Ouyang Tan called out to Su Lili: "Why aren't you running yet!"

The voice of the old camphor tree is filled with a refined understanding of the world, "He is no ordinary person; even spirits and deities keep their distance in reverence, let alone us tree spirits"

Su Lili nodded slightly, "If one's heart desires to hold the candle and move forward, yet encounters a headwind, should one not be true to one's heart and turn back instead?"

The monk Jun revealed a knowing look, his gaze intense. "Could it be that you have someone in your heart, yet fear getting burned, hence your indecision?"

Su Lili bit her lip, as if the medicine were her arch-nemesis, "I am most afraid of taking medicine; I won't drink it even if I eat candy"

Su Lili did not shy away and stated directly: "I suspect that the 'greedy little man' must be Xiao Jie"

Su Lili slowly opened her other eye and whispered, "You won't kill me, will you?" Her gaze was serious yet timid, revealing genuine fear

Three individuals stealthily approached Qi Fengxiang's tent, bending low as they moved. Not far away, shadows were also flickering. Su Lili felt puzzled: What are they doing? Seeing those people pouring something around the tent, Su Lili suddenly realized they intended to set it on fire. She abruptly lifted the tent flap and shouted, "Hey, what are you doing!"

Qi Fengxiang gracefully took her hand and said: "His name is not Wang Meng. If I am not mistaken, his name is Ouyang Tan."

Perhaps there was a breeze passing through the forest, as the branches of the camphor tree seemed to tremble, and the sky appeared to darken.

Qi Fengxiang, unable to endure any longer, became furious and declared, "If you do not drink, I will pinch your chin and force it down your throat!"

May is the season when the orioles fly and the grass grows lush. In late spring, the fine mosquitoes begin to appear, and the weather becomes humid and warm. Su Lili has been recuperating for these past few days, during which two rain showers have occurred, filling the air with the fragrance of grass leaves. Qi Fengxiang has stationed thirty thousand troops in Taiping and Chengfu, yet he himself does not enter the city, instead setting up camp in the mountains and fields, resting for half a month.

Qi Fengxiang also smiled, "It's not too outrageous, I suppose it can be considered cute." Releasing her, he walked to the camphor tree, placing his hand on its trunk and saying, "This tree has endured for a thousand years, witnessing the rise and fall of fortunes; it should be more enlightened than I. I shall make a wish to it. May it grant me the strength to achieve my goals."

Qi Fengxiang called out to him, saying: "When you returned, did Mr. Han mention anything to pay attention to?"

Qi Fengxiang did not agree, but淡淡 said: "I can introduce you to the king; you have a good reputation and will surely achieve success."

Upon hearing about the large tree, Su Lili readily agreed and followed Qi Fengxiang as they slowly walked along the mountain path. Along the way, only the sound of the empty mountain's chanting could be heard, with all else in silence. The two of them exchanged a few words here and there, managing to cover more than two li in about half an hour. After turning around a cascading waterfall, they saw a sturdy trunk standing in a wide clearing in the distance

She has never been particularly superstitious, yet at this moment, she could not help but kneel on the cushion in the center, palms together like a lotus, and silently prayed: "Buddha, the scriptures say that you are the wisest person in the world. I have many troubles and do not dare to seek liberation. But there is one person, whose name I do not know, whom I call 'Wood.' I ask for your blessing for him, wherever he may be, may he be safe and joyful"

Ouyang Qinzhen said solemnly: "I do not intend to use this matter to coerce you. In the past, when Chen Beiguang summoned me, I refused to go because Chen Beiguang is good at scheming but lacks decisiveness, making him unfit to accomplish anything. After careful consideration over these days, I find that Young Master Qi is righteous and values the worthy, with strategies that are extraordinary; he is indeed a leader in chaotic times, and I am convinced by him."

Su Lili let out a soft "mm".

The monk Jun was left speechless, his facial muscles twitching slightly. After a great effort, he interrupted her, saying: "Benefactor, it is nearly noon, and I am about to go collect some alms. According to the precepts of the Buddhist monastic code, one should not eat after noon."

Qi Fengxiang asked: "What words?"