Eight, the interplay of light and shadow is chaotic

But that way, there would be no nightmares! Yan Fei's smile froze on her face. He actually knew that she had nightmares? Despite all her efforts to hide it, this big child had exposed her. Yes, she often had nightmares. In her dreams, she was bound hand and foot, unable to move, suffering immensely. She hoped for someone to come and save her, but that person never came. Thus, her body ached, and her heart ached even more. It felt like being cut into a thousand pieces, with no way to escape. Dying that way would be better! Yet, she still had to wake up, to come back to life. She hoped for someone to come and save her, but that person never came. Thus, her body ached, and her heart ached even more. It felt like being cut into a thousand pieces, with no way to escape. Dying that way would be better! Yet, she still had to wake up, to come back to life. The sunlight filled the room, but could not cover the vast darkness in her heart. What had she cried out in her dreams? That made this little boy say such things. Zhan Feng hated himself, feeling extremely frustrated: "I didn't mean to say it like that." Yan Fei stood up: "I discussed your matter with my godfather; he will transfer you to the Volunteer Army of the Business Association for training. You need to study well and not make mistakes again." Zhan Feng wanted to keep her, feeling extremely frustrated: "I didn't mean to say it like that." Yan Fei stood up: "I discussed your matter with my godfather; he will transfer you to the Volunteer Army of the Business Association for training. You need to study well and not make mistakes again." Zhan Feng wanted to keep her, but could only watch helplessly as she disappeared from his sight. A sense of powerlessness surged in his heart again. In the night, he would hear her cry: "Don't save me, let me die!" When he collapsed onto the bed, her words "Don't save me, let me die!" echoed in his ears. She was truly seeking death. But tonight, she slept soundly, the room was completely silent, perhaps she had grown wary, even in her dreams, guarding against being caught off guard. In the night, he would hear her cry: "Don't save me, let me die!" When he collapsed onto the bed, her words "Don't save me, let me die!" echoed in his ears. She was truly seeking death. But tonight, she slept soundly, the room was completely silent, perhaps she had grown wary, even in her dreams, guarding against being caught off guard.

The long-forgotten pain has breached the dam. At midnight, the moon is obscured by dark clouds, and there is not a glimmer of light around the window frame. The returning clouds lie upon the pillow, and the overwhelming memories weigh down on her, making it hard for her to breathe, much like the moonlight that cannot break through the dark clouds.

But with him by her side, she had a chest that wept, disregarding everything else, clinging to him, crying her heart out

The childhood friend without pretense leaned against the wall. Gui Yun had a thousand questions to ask. "Over the years, how have you been?" Yan Fei looked at her sincerely, as if she was about to reveal something. "Zhou Xiaokai is a reckless person, both gambling and smoking. The Tang waiter’s efforts were in vain, losing everything in the end." Suddenly feeling a deep sorrow, she thought, what about herself? Is it a loss or a gain? She winked at Gui Yun: "I don’t care about them; in this world, you are my only family."

It was indeed disdainful. The master Du was so furious that he couldn't catch his breath and grabbed a feather duster to strike. In the past, Zhan Feng would always jump and dodge, but this time he didn't even try to evade and took the blows head-on. Qing Gu and Gui Yun tried to persuade and pull him away, but Master Du simply commanded: "Tomorrow, you will pack your bags and go home. You don't need to go to Boss Wang's place; come to the theater to take my place. Next month, you will marry Gui Yun." Unexpectedly, Zhan Feng stood his ground and protested loudly: "I will not marry Gui Yun, nor will I leave Boss Wang's cotton spinning factory." Master Du commanded again: "Tomorrow, you will pack your bags and go home. You don't need to go to Boss Wang's place; come to the theater to take my place. Next month, you will marry Gui Yun." Unexpectedly, Zhan Feng stood his ground and protested loudly: "I will not marry Gui Yun, nor will I leave Boss Wang's cotton spinning factory."

Indeed. Master Duban stroked his short beard. Both young and old Chinese people harbor the pain and fear of a fallen nation. Beside him, Guiyun felt a chill run through her body, anxiously hugging her arms. All comfort is but temporary; it passes too swiftly, and tomorrow holds no promise of brightness. Why does the sky in August seem so shrouded in gloom?

"Is it them?" Du Ban Zhu clasped his hands. "Manager Yuan." Manager Yuan nodded and sat down in the boss's chair. Jiang Taizhong asked, "Should we have the two young performers sing a song?" Manager Yuan waved his hand, and Huang Douyan glanced around a few times. Fine. He had been mingling in the entertainment scene for a few years, and with his keen eyes, he could tell at a glance whether a woman was popular on the Shanghai Bund.

Gui Feng was taken aback; she was aware of this Shaoxing rice wine, which was brewed by Qing Gu and Du Ban Zhu on the year of their marriage. They had always said they would open it when Zhan Feng married. Since childhood, she had been looked down upon and sent by her aunt to a theater troupe as their first child bride, drifting along with them. Each time they migrated, her most important luggage was that jar of daughter’s red wine. The faint and clear aroma of the wine followed her, as well as the Du family. Later, when Gui Yun entered the Du family, Gui Feng thought she no longer had the right to hold that jar of wine. Now, the wine had been opened, but it was not at Zhan Feng's wedding. Everything had changed. The gloom of the Du family had dissipated, and Qing Gu's hopes had been rekindled. "Let everyone drink when Zhan Feng gets married," she said, catching sight of Zhan Feng and Gui Yun. Gui Feng also noticed Zhan Feng and Gui Yun, but only she could see their helplessness and awkwardness. Gui Yun tightly clutched her clothing; was she as helpless as she was? Gui Yun was too exhausted, her mind in disarray, unable to think. The series of events had become unbearable for her, as if she had gone through that night of flickering shadows, not only revisiting nightmares but also facing the harsh realities of life that left her feeling more helpless. After crying and weeping, she could no longer find any weakness to evade. Forced to expose her wounds in broad daylight, she had no choice but to wipe away her blood and tears and continue moving forward step by step. She had not expected that just a few days later, Zhuo Yang would come looking for her again. He was there to give her the photos taken that night by accident.

This morning, two flowers bloomed again. I thought someone would surely come to see me today, and indeed I was not mistaken. "I thought I would come to see you since I have nothing to do today," said Yan Fei, glancing at Gui Yun, who was wearing a lake blue coarse cloth wide-sleeved qipao. "If you would be willing to cut your hair short like a schoolgirl, you would look even more spirited; you always wear two braids." "That hairstyle is popular on the streets now, but I feel more grounded with braids," Gui Yun replied. "So do I; look, I also have long hair," Yan Fei said. The two exchanged glances and laughed foolishly. Some things are indeed hard to change. Yan Fei led Gui Yun into the house. After not seeing each other for many days, the living room, which had been visited several times, had changed again. The furnishings in the living room had been cleared out, leaving only a row of genuine leather sofas, with a mahjong table in the corner. There was nothing else left. "This way, it’s easier to clean up," Yan Fei said, pulling Gui Yun to sit on the sofa. It felt too empty, and her voice echoed. Gui Yun felt lonely and sensed Yan Fei's loneliness as well. "You see, we begged for food together since we were little, and we only had one or two copper coins at most. How many copper coins would it take to have a small house like this?"

The flowers are indeed captivating. Yan Fei wore only a short-sleeved white brocade qipao, her hair gently styled into a bun. Standing behind the flowers, she appeared even more graceful than the blossoms themselves. Gui Yun was just admiring the watering can when Yan Fei had already spotted her outside the iron-fan fence. She opened the iron gate and reached out her hand to her.

Although the female roles in Shaoxing opera may not be as provocative as the dancers at the Palais de Danse, they must still maintain a sense of decorum while commanding the stage. It is not solely about vocal ability; appearance also plays a crucial role. He recognized that the troupe leader had some skills, but the circumstances were beyond his control. The performers were honest and straightforward, which alleviated any concerns, making them easier to manage. Thus, he said: "It is acceptable. The theater will open in July and August, and your troupe will need to work harder then." His politeness elevated his status just enough, striking the right balance to avoid offending anyone. Such individuals navigate smoothly through various situations, gaining favor everywhere and achieving success. Jiang Taizhong had successfully handled the matter and added a flourish: "When the two leading performers make our theater a success, everyone will benefit from it." The troupe leader Du and his companions laughed awkwardly in response. After leaving Manager Yuan's office, Jiang Taizhong quietly remarked: "Manager Yuan has already vouched for it, and in a few days, I will take my elder brother to offer incense."

At the front desk, someone was urging for the performance to start. Gui Feng adjusted her costume and went straight on stage. Today, she was performing "Chasing Fish," portraying the lovesick carp spirit who wholeheartedly pursued the scholar Zhang Zhen. Zhang Zhen was infatuated with the peony, so the carp spirit had no choice but to transform into the likeness of the peony to seek Zhang Zhen's affection. The carp spirit, disguised as a peony, sang: "Let me temporarily hide my true self, transforming into the charming form of a peony. Tonight, the fish will skillfully adorn itself, becoming a divine maiden to meet the Prince of Xiang." Zhang Zhen truly believed it was the peony maiden who had caught his eye. Gui Feng followed with sorrow, lamenting the plight of the carp spirit, who could only gain her beloved's attention by donning the skin of a peony. She felt even more despondent, as she had always been an observer. She continued to think of Xie Yanfei. This woman from the Flower Kingdom was a living wedge between her, Zhan Feng, and Gui Yun. Indeed, it was quite unjust! In the play, the carp spirit achieved her desired outcome. Outside the play, Gui Feng sighed with melancholy. The bustling scene was merely an illusion; after leaving the stage, she found herself alone. In the backstage, she saw Gui Yun. In the play, the carp spirit achieved her desired outcome. Outside the play, Gui Feng sighed with melancholy. The bustling scene was merely an illusion; after leaving the stage, she found herself alone. In the backstage, she saw Gui Yun. Gui Yun held two pieces of pear syrup candy in her hands and said: "I bought these from that little shop again. This morning, he brought his three-year-old son to set up the stall, chubby and adorable!" Gui Feng smiled. They had grown up together, sharing warmth in the same bed. She had always cared for her like this. She reached out, pinched a piece, and took a bite: "The taste is still just as good." Gui Yun also smiled, facing her as usual. It was time for the clouds to disperse and the mist to clear. The two of them walked home with Master Du, where Zhan Feng and Qing Gu were packing their luggage in the parlor. "What’s going on?" Master Du asked. Qing Gu replied: "Zhan Feng found a good place to rent in the concession; the security there is good, and the Japanese don’t go in!"

For three days and nights, the high fever persisted, and after waking up, I had forgotten the horrifying scene. Now, I finally remember. My mother sacrificed herself for her. Guiyun crouched down, hugging her arms tightly, trembling in fear, scaring the person who was secretly taking pictures. Zhuoyang wanted to help her, but she struggled fiercely and fell to the ground. Raising her eyes, her face was filled with tears. "My mother—she's dead!" She fell into the darkness, helpless and alone. Zhuoyang extended his arms again, this time pulling her in tightly. His breath was warm. "My mother—she's dead!" She fell into the darkness, helpless and alone. Zhuoyang extended his arms again, this time pulling her in tightly. His breath was warm.

In that desolate alley, she cried in Zhuo Yang's arms for a long time, soaking his shirt. In the end, she casually looked for something to wipe her face, and what she found was a whole piece of cloth. She lifted her head and said to Zhuo Yang, "I'm sorry." Zhuo Yang's smile had always been handsome, even visible in the darkness. His voice was gentle as he replied, "It was originally yours to begin with."

Yan Feixiao thought to herself, "I know." How can I extricate myself? Fujita Tomoya appears before her every few days, and it is also fine to see her dancing with others

Guiyun held the photograph, lost in thought. It was the first photograph of her life, capturing a moment of sorrow and hopelessness. It resembled the tragic films shown in cinemas, where female characters often lament in such postures. Perhaps it was all a performance, or perhaps life itself is merely a play. Zhuoyang, however, was observing her at this moment. She wore a refreshing, modified blue short-sleeved floral qipao, the hem reaching just above her knees, with a slight slit. Her calves were adorned with white knee-high socks, and she wore black cloth shoes. The delicate floral patterns on the qipao mirrored her fragility, and her long braid concealed some of her helplessness. Yet, her face bore signs of fatigue and softness.

Fortunately, there are people around to support me through this overwhelming sadness. However, the sorrow lingers long, while the night is brief, and before long, the dawn breaks. Guiyun and Guifeng rise early and hurry to Zhaofeng Villa. Zhanfeng did not expect them to come looking for him so early; seeing their pale faces and matching dark circles under their eyes, he felt even more guilty. Yanfei was having breakfast when he saw Guiyun and Guifeng enter. He wiped his mouth with a small napkin and said, "Just in time, I prepared breakfast. Would you like to join?"

Zhan Feng's face alternated between pale and flushed, and it was indeed inappropriate to linger here any longer. He had run out of excuses; whatever he did would be purely his own wishful thinking. However, Yan Fei added a reminder: "This is not a big deal; you should clarify things with the person in your family who is considerate and understanding. At your age, throwing a tantrum and threatening to run away from home is simply unreasonable!" She then said to Gui Yun: "What Zhan Feng is doing is a good thing; he will explain everything clearly to you when he returns home."

Yan Fei was not asleep; she turned on the desk lamp and decisively wrote a note to Gui Yun. After finishing, she stared at the note for a while. Her handwriting was not neat, and he had teased her about it before. Determined, she practiced hard, but before she could improve, he had already left. Later, she found herself too busy and disinterested to practice again, and days passed by. The note read: "Zhan Feng is with me, do not worry!" After finishing, she sighed deeply, feeling an unexpected sense of satisfaction, and thus slept soundly through the night. The next morning, she had her maid deliver it.

Gui Feng refused, her tone a bit sharp: "We will leave soon!" Gui Yun hurriedly said: "We have eaten already." Yan Fei was indifferent, just smiling; her fair complexion and bright teeth could also captivate others' attention. Gui Feng was momentarily taken aback.

Guiyun read the note, pondered for a moment, and turned to see the Du couple, reporting: "Zhanfeng is currently staying at a colleague's house in the cotton spinning factory, I think—" She paused, glancing at the silent Du Banmaster, who was still upset from last night. Last night had been a big argument. After returning with Du Banmaster, Zhanfeng was relentlessly questioned by his parents about what he was up to. He initially tried to evade the questions, but eventually, he could not escape. When pressed, he stubbornly replied: "Going to the Bailemen was my fault, but I am not wrong. One day you will understand that I am not wrong!"

Suddenly, a figure emerged from the shadows—it was Zhan Feng. His face was filled with dejection and frustration as he looked at her in a daze. Yan Fei sighed softly and asked, "Did you have a fight with your family? Have you run away from home?" Zhan Feng nodded in shame. Auntie came out to open the door, and Zhan Feng followed her into the house. Zhan Feng sat in the living room while Yan Fei poured him a glass of red wine. The transparent wine glass was stained with the deep red color of the wine, resembling blood. Auntie came out to open the door, and Zhan Feng followed her into the house. Zhan Feng sat in the living room while Yan Fei poured him a glass of red wine. The transparent wine glass was stained with the deep red color of the wine, resembling blood

Everyone was stunned, and Guiyun was also taken aback. The predetermined fate was no longer that fate, and the predetermined fortune was no longer that fortune. Master Du, filled with anger and anxiety, wanted to strike again, while Zhan Feng simply turned and ran, leaving the members of the Du family sleepless throughout the night

Yan Fei secretly observed that they had all left, retracting her gaze to focus on the collar of her dance partner's attire. How could this Japanese man, Fujita Tomoya, be so tall? She felt a sense of pressure within her. He invited her, "Shall we have Western cuisine together tonight?" She shook her head. "Then let’s go watch 'Street Angel'!" She nodded. In any case, one of the options had to be accepted; he was not someone easy to appease. It was indeed exhausting. They went to the Daguangming Theater to watch 'Street Angel.' This film had recently become a huge hit, attracting many viewers. They sat among the crowd, and he whispered, "Yuan Muzhi's portrayal of the lower-middle class life in Shanghai is quite authentic; humble people live in humble circumstances."

He pressed the shutter. A flash of white light swept by, dazzling Guiyun's eyes. She saw it; the sealed memories were forced open: a bloodied head, disheveled black hair cutting through the night, and the terrified, wide-open eyes.

She said, "I will go tidy up, you all chat." Gu Zi went upstairs, leaving at the right moment, leaving only Gui Yun, Gui Feng, and Zhan Feng.

Clench your fist. On a night shrouded in the hazy moonlight, all pain is laid bare. However, all grievances remain unredressed.

He also said: "If there could be a new set of unified rules to regulate this society, the Chinese people would live much better"

I want to smoke! What kind of cigarettes do children smoke? Have a glass of red wine to warm yourself up and go to sleep! She definitely won't let him smoke. You always hang around in such places to make a living, which is not good! Zhan Feng could only take a small sip of the red wine, which had a hint of sweetness.

She truly cannot fathom him; it is evident that she is infatuated, yet she has never overstepped her bounds, and there is no affection reflected on her face. What exists is perhaps a sense of nostalgia! She imagines how he looked at her while she danced, which truly resembles a reminiscence of something. Ultimately, she allowed him to escort her back, exchanged a simple farewell, and watched him leave, pressing the doorbell to summon the maid to open the door.

People who originally thought Shanghai would be safe are now completely panicked. The fortunes of British, American, and French capitalists cannot withstand the airplanes and artillery of the Japanese. The smell of gunpowder is drawing closer

"Do not be willful." Yan Fei's qipao was unwrinkled, her hair still neatly styled, but her face showed signs of fatigue

Guiyun held onto Yanfei's hand: "Little Yan—" Such an opening, such a situation, made her anticipate the unfortunate events that would follow. She did not ask any further and simply held her hand.

Du Ban invited Jiang Taizhong to a special banquet once again, and he lazily remarked, "Let me mix things up a bit! You all know that Manager Yuan is quite busy!" Du Ban clasped his fists and repeatedly requested, though he couldn't help but feel a surge of frustration within. Arriving at the Bailemen during the day was quite tranquil. It was still Jiang Taizhong who led them to the entrance of the staff office, but there was no one inside. Gui Yun looked around, noticing the alluring photographs hanging on the walls. The beauties in the photos, whether in qipao or Western dresses, all exuded charm and radiance. The only one not smiling was Yan Fei, dressed in a white qipao adorned with red plum blossoms. She casually stood beside a fireplace, one hand resting on the mantel, the other holding a sandalwood fan, her brows and eyes fixed on the camera, yet she seemed to draw in the viewer's very soul. Her brows and eyes possessed such enchanting power. Below the photo was a nameplate: "White Peony, Xie Yanfei." Jiang Taizhong pointed at Yan Fei's photo and laughed, "The current star of Bailemen, she turns at least ten tables in a night; even the cotton-spinning tycoons can't afford her, but she is indeed a golden signboard!" It was as if he were talking about a money tree, and indeed he was. Just then, someone entered the office, and Jiang Taizhong approached, saying, "Manager Yuan, I have brought the person!" Gui Yun recognized this man; he was the one who had been harshly treated by Manli, and it turned out he was the support they were seeking from Manager Yuan.

That was her mother. She widened her eyes in shock upon hearing the menacing voice. "Baga Yalu!" No one knew when her mother had emerged from the thicket where the refugees were hiding; in doing so, she saved them all. She sacrificed herself for her husband and daughter. Her father forgot to cover his daughter's eyes. He only tightly covered her mouth until she suffocated and fainted

Upon hearing the name Guiyun, she felt a slight doubt. Yanfei said, "You go upstairs first; I need to receive a guest." Guiyun complied and went upstairs, but only stood at the corner of the staircase, leaning in to listen. After a while, Fujita Tomoya was brought in by the maid. "Miss Yanfei," Guiyun thought, he speaks fluent Chinese. "I was just about to thank you! The small spray bottle you sent last time is very useful." Guiyun thought they seemed quite familiar with each other. "I'm glad you like it!" Perhaps the maid had brought in tea, and Yanfei said, "Please enjoy the tea." The man seemed to take a sip and asked, "Is this West Lake Longjing?" "I didn't expect that besides Chinese antiques, you also have knowledge of Chinese tea." "Chinese culture is vast and profound; I have admired it since childhood and even studied under a Chinese expert in epigraphy."

"Xiaoyun, no matter what I have done, you won't despise me, will you?" Yanfei curled up beside Guiyun. "How could I despise my own family?" Guiyun expressed her wish, "Xiaoyan, you should find someone to marry properly!"

Yet, the wish of Gui Feng, which has been torn apart, is difficult to piece back together. How can the fortunate Gui Yun leave the wind of departure? Her life has been fractured, giving rise to some despair and some hope. Suddenly, she thinks of Yan Fei, and the despair deepens.

He spoke in a string of words, and she responded with a string of laughter, finally teasing him: "That won't do, I like wearing qipaos, riding in small cars, and playing mahjong, what should I do?"

Yan Fei pursed her lips and said, "Who can bear the burden of my life?" The doorbell rang, and Auntie quickly jogged from the kitchen to open the door. After a while, she returned to report, "Mr. Fujita has arrived."

Ah, she raised her voice, looked around to see no one, cleared her throat, and began: "Three cannon shots outside the gate sound like thunder, and from the wave of the sky, I, Bao Guochen, emerge, wearing a golden helmet, with gray hair pressed down, clad in iron armor and a battle robe, and draped in the flag of the commander, the character 'Shuai' displayed prominently. Mu Guiying, at fifty-three, sets out to battle once more." It was merely a performance; she imagined herself as the valiant heroine Mu Guiying, stomping her feet and displaying her might to alleviate her loneliness and dispel her fears. Zhuo Yang held a camera in his hand, captivated by the enchanting figure singing: "We do not seek official positions, nor do we seek power, but for the great Song dynasty and the common people." He had intended to pass by, yet he was unwittingly drawn in by the graceful performance under the moonlit tree. Her demeanor and presence were unlike anything he had ever seen. He thought she seemed delicate, yet she always managed to reveal her strong side.

He imagined that if he captured her like this with a camera, he could title the photograph "A Weak Summer." Just like this summer in Shanghai, where unease permeated everywhere. Yet, the expression on her face as she looked at the photo was one of slow, profound sorrow. Zhuo Yang watched her anxiously; after much contemplation, he decided to send her the photograph. Her fragile appearance evoked his deep sympathy. That day, he developed the photo and spent a long time alone in the newspaper office looking at it. That night, his father was furious, not only because he had been injured and had not returned, but also because he stubbornly insisted on going to the Paramount to shoot a photo feature titled "The Prosperous Shanghai." He too was obstinate and argued his case. His father, in a fit of rage, threatened to burn all the banned books he had copied from the newspaper in his room. Ultimately, an unavoidable family quarrel erupted. In anger, he left home and wandered the streets. The feeling of being misunderstood made him restless. Passing by a silk shop on Xiefi Road, he saw a piece of deep blue silk. It reminded him of Gui Yun. He bought the fabric and went to the theater to inquire about her address, only to unexpectedly encounter her pouring out her deepest pain. It also tangled his heart. That night, he returned home. His father was waiting for him in the living room, smoking and staying up late. Unable to bear it, he set aside his stubbornness and pride and said to his father, "I'm sorry." His father was both gratified and surprised. He thought that compared to her, having both parents was a tremendous blessing. The joys and sorrows of youth were thus captured. Gui Yun carefully brushed the photo again and again, treating it like a treasure. "I have never taken a photo before!" she said, her lips curling into a shy smile, "So this is how silly I look in the photo!" He thought that compared to her, having both parents was a tremendous blessing. The joys and sorrows of youth were thus captured. Gui Yun carefully brushed the photo again and again, treating it like a treasure. "I have never taken a photo before!" she said, her lips curling into a shy smile, "So this is how silly I look in the photo!"

Zhan Feng had no choice but to carry his luggage and leave the small western-style building with Gui Yun and Gui Feng. Wherever he came from, he had to leave. The warm fragrance of the plum blossoms was drifting further away from him. The season of plum blossoms had already passed, and it was now approaching summer. The roads were adorned with pleasing greenery, hidden in the small alleys, filled with fresh vitality. Gui Feng was sweating profusely, feeling light-headed, and sensed that vitality was far from her. Zhan Feng, beside her, faced the main road, appearing dazed. The cars and horses before him seemed to flow like water and dragons, but he was utterly disinterested; for the first time, the lively person he was had fallen silent. Zhan Feng ran off, Gui Feng thought. Returning to the Shikumen on Xin Zha Road, Gui Yun led Zhan Feng directly into the room of Master Du. Gui Feng closed the door for them, leaning outside, feeling like a perpetual outsider. She saw through the crack of the door that Zhan Feng was kneeling before Master Du, bowing and speaking, but her view was blurred. However, she could see that Master Du was listening intently, his expression changing from anger to joy, then to appreciation. He pulled Zhan Feng up and patted his shoulder. Master Du's face brightened, the clouds parted. She did not need to know why; it was enough that Gui Yun knew, as that was his responsibility.

"Then why don't you tell me, where should I go to make a living?" Yan Fei propped her head up and looked at him askew. "You could sing opera; your voice is very pleasant. You could also work as a textile worker, ah! And there are also positions as a sales clerk."

The master Du Ban stepped out and, smiling, instructed: "Tonight, bring out that jar of Shaoxing Daughter's Red, so the two of us can enjoy a couple of cups."

At this moment, Manager Yuan still had a foolish appearance. Upon seeing Master Du and his group, he could not help but put on some airs of a boss.

He was single-minded and stubborn to the end. Master Duban, hearing that he was unwilling to reveal everything, became even angrier. Aunt Qing also blamed others, saying that Boss Wang was not a decent person, and that Zhan Feng had learned bad habits from him. At this point, Zhan Feng not only became anxious but also spoke without thinking, saying: "How can you understand what Boss Wang does?"

You look beautiful in the photo! Zhuo Yang couldn't help but say. Gui Yun blushed and changed the subject: "Are you both a journalist and a photographer?" "These are all internships. I am still studying at the University of Transportation, majoring in Physics, and I work part-time for the Morning News in my spare time."

The master of Duban still feels a lingering pain in his heart: "He has grown wings, he can fly now, why would he still cherish this old home?"

Due to Yan Fei's special instructions for Gui Yun to personally collect the note, Niang Yi cleverly handed it to Gui Yun while she was filling water at the public faucet

A family must ultimately confront each other. Gui Feng was the first to speak: "Zhan Feng, do you really intend to treat Gui Yun this way?" Her indignation was palpable, and her rare sternness made Zhan Feng feel even more guilty. He looked at Gui Yun, who remained calm and composed, meeting his gaze without pressure, only with tranquility. Zhan Feng gathered his courage, knowing that whether he advanced or retreated, he would face the consequences. It was a man's straightforwardness to strike first and explain later. "Gui Yun, I am sorry for you." Gui Yun's eyelashes fluttered slightly. Zhan Feng, emboldened, repeated, "Gui Yun, I am sorry for you." Gui Yun seemed to feel a sense of relief as if a mountain had collapsed. "I understand now; I will not blame you." Zhan Feng, with a foolish grin, also felt at ease, realizing that Gui Yun might not think as he had imagined. Was it such a complicated issue? It turned out to be this simple to resolve. Only Gui Feng remained perplexed. "How can you be like this?" Gui Yun replied, "What is the point of forcing him to do something he does not want to do? I had thought about this when I came; I will listen to Zhan Feng." After a pause, she firmly added, "But I am still a member of the Du family." Zhan Feng nodded, still feeling guilty, unable to speak. After a long while, he finally said, "I will always consider you my sister; I, Du Zhan Feng, will protect you for a lifetime!" Gui Feng, however, was in tears. "How can you be like this?" Gui Yun reiterated, "What is the point of forcing him to do something he does not want to do? I had thought about this when I came; I will listen to Zhan Feng." After a pause, she firmly added, "But I am still a member of the Du family." Zhan Feng nodded, still feeling guilty, unable to speak. After a long while, he finally said, "I will always consider you my sister; I, Du Zhan Feng, will protect you for a lifetime!" Gui Feng was in tears, looking at Gui Yun, who was gazing back at her. What should they do? Should Gui Yun beg Zhan Feng? No, absolutely not. She understood, but was unwilling; her heartfelt wishes were shattered, and the overt sadness stifled the atmosphere. What should they do? Should Gui Yun beg Zhan Feng? No, absolutely not. She understood, but was unwilling; her heartfelt wishes were shattered, and the overt sadness stifled the atmosphere. The maid brought out Zhan Feng's luggage and placed it in the middle of the living room, signaling the end of the visit. Yan Fei followed out, as it turned out she was the one packing his belongings. At that moment, she resembled a sincere older sister: "Make sure to eat well and return early! The adults will worry."

Some individuals with foresight and financial means began to flee abroad or to the mainland. Those who did not wish to leave Shanghai migrated to the concessions, ultimately relying on the protection of the British, Americans, and the *Tu* and *Shufa* nations. Initially, it was just a small number of people, cautiously, and perhaps some carried a sense of humiliation. Zhan Feng privately told his father and Gui Yun: "All the goods and machinery from Boss Wang's factory in Hongkou have been moved to the warehouses in the concessions. It is close to Wusongkou, and recently there have been suspicious individuals lurking about. It seems that a conflict is about to break out." Master Du nodded: "No wonder so many people have been entering the concessions lately." He added resentfully, "The Chinese officials cannot even protect the common people, and we still have to rely on foreigners for protection." Zhan Feng was filled with emotion: "If war breaks out, it will show that we Chinese are not to be easily bullied; the loss in the Northeast was too humiliating."

His chin rested against her head, filled with regret for his rashness, hoping to offer her comfort. Yet, he knew he could not heal that deep pain

Yan Fei gently coughed in the darkness, recalling what he had said: "Anyone who invades my Chinese territory must be expelled"

It turns out he is a student, a university student, and Gui Yun envies him: "That's really great!" He can understand the admiration on her face. She is such a transparent person, like a magnolia flower with dew. His heart tightened. He said: "We all need to work hard until the day everyone has freedom." Gui Yun sighed softly: "Freedom." This is a currently unattainable luxury wish; in this era, too many wishes cannot be fulfilled. After bidding farewell to Zhuo Yang, Gui Yun returned to the theater, where Gui Feng was waiting for her. He said: "We all need to work hard until the day everyone has freedom." Gui Yun sighed softly: "Freedom." This is a currently unattainable luxury wish; in this era, too many wishes cannot be fulfilled. After bidding farewell to Zhuo Yang, Gui Yun returned to the theater, where Gui Feng was waiting for her. She had something to say to her. "Yesterday, the lady, Mrs. Wan, who often comes to listen to the opera, mentioned that her family runs an antique shop at the Chenghuang Temple. While chatting with me, she said that recently a well-dressed Japanese man has been coming to buy antiques at the Palais de la Découverte." She was referring to Yan Fei. "Mrs. Wan said that this Japanese man has been very active in the antique circle lately, mingling with several antique dealers of questionable character. There is always someone following him to pay, who is the former deputy director of Dahua Bank, the one who used to be with the senior sister." Gui Yun felt uneasy and hurriedly interjected: "Xiao Yan wouldn't get involved with a Japanese man inappropriately." Gui Feng stiffened. "Mrs. Wan said that this Japanese man has been very active in the antique circle lately, mingling with several antique dealers of questionable character. There is always someone following him to pay, who is the former deputy director of Dahua Bank, the one who used to be with the senior sister." Gui Yun felt uneasy and hurriedly interjected: "Xiao Yan wouldn't get involved with a Japanese man inappropriately." Gui Feng stiffened. Gui Yun then realized her tone was too harsh and worried she might hurt Gui Feng, so she said: "I have known Xiao Yan since we were young; she is not that kind of person. Gui Feng, I believe in Xiao Yan." Gui Feng's expression was hidden beneath heavy makeup, awkwardly, she coldly replied: "Yes, I am an outsider; how can I understand so much."

Thank you for your hard work! Master Du once again bowed his hands, inevitably lowering his head in silence. It seemed that everything was smoothly implemented; Manager Yuan's theater began extensive renovations, emphasizing efficiency. The walls were painted and the paper was pasted with sponsorship from various factories, with the factory advertisements prominently displayed on the theater walls. It truly is a way to generate wealth. Naturally, Master Du's family also wanted to lend their support. Aunt Qing actively prepared meals, sending them with Guiyun or Guifeng. She said it was important to build good relationships among everyone in the theater, as being a good person should come first. Guiyun, walking along Jing'an Temple Road, couldn't help but think of the Zhaofeng Villa not far from there, where she had met Yanfei several times, though their time together was always brief. She wanted to go see her. Yanfei was not only at home but was also in the front courtyard garden, bending down with a small plastic watering can to water the flowers. The nozzle of the watering can was exquisitely designed, spraying water in fine threads that fell onto the small, round white petals of the jasmine flowers, forming glistening droplets that dripped down.

"Do not be agitated, there is nothing, nothing at all." Memories unfolded inch by inch. "The Japanese devils killed my mother, and my father as well. I have lost everything! I have lost everything!"

Eighteen-year-old Xiang Shulei, who spoke little, would say only one sentence at a time. She remembered everything. Thus, she resolutely whispered, "Not necessarily!" "Let’s wait and see!" The date ended in disappointment once again. It seemed they often parted ways unhappily. She also gathered some information and brought news of their search for "The Elegy of Missing My Old Friend" to Boss Wang. Boss Wang pondered for a long time, "He actually wants to find this?" "Is there something wrong with that?" "Master Jianzhen is not a renowned calligrapher; the value of this calligraphy lies in its age, its significance, and the seals of famous collectors from various dynasties behind it. The Japanese actually want to find this." Boss Wang said, "I heard it was indeed Old Wan who took action; I originally intended to buy it, but he sold it before I could." He reminded Yan Fei, "I’m afraid that if too much time passes, they will become suspicious. After all, you are not a full-time person in this field; it’s better to withdraw early. I also don’t want you to take too many risks."