His heart was filled with longing and anticipation for the future when he could study under King Zhao.
Her steps were unsteady, as if she were walking on clouds, and everything around her became a blurry background.
The cacophony of vendors' cries and the bustling crowds in the market failed to pull her out of her reverie.
Before they knew it, the three of them had stepped into the antique-style bookstore.
As soon as she entered, the faint fragrance of ink wafted over her, bringing Xu Qian back to her senses.
Inside the store, rows of tall bookshelves stand neatly arranged, like silent guardians, filled with a dazzling array of books.
Some books are brand new and shiny, with a soft sheen on the paper; others are slightly old, with yellowed and curled pages, telling stories of bygone years.
Sunlight streamed through the carved window lattices, casting dappled shadows on the ground and adding a touch of tranquility and solemnity to this small space.
Occasionally a gentle breeze blows by, softly turning the pages of the book, making a rustling sound, as if the books are whispering to each other.
Su Jinyun chatted enthusiastically with Qin Qianluo, discussing everything from poetry and songs to anecdotes and strange tales.
Sometimes he would excitedly recount interesting stories he had recently heard, and other times he would earnestly discuss the brilliance of a certain article with Qin Qianluo.
He subtly glanced at Xu Qian out of the corner of his eye.
Seeing Xu Qian's distraught and adoring expression, Su Jinyun felt a mix of emotions, as if a spice jar had been overturned.
She subconsciously clenched the silk handkerchief in her hand, her nails digging into her palm, and couldn't help but purse her lips slightly.
He thought to himself, "Qianluo has grown up and become more and more dazzling. People who admire her are springing up like mushrooms after rain. It's really a headache."
"I don't know where all these beautiful women came from, always hovering around Qianluo. They're so annoying!"
But the moment her gaze fell upon Qin Qianluo's smiling face, Su Jinyun's heart instantly softened as if gently caressed by the warm spring sun.
When Qin Qianluo smiles, her eyes curve into crescent moons, her dimples are shallow, and she exudes a warm and charming aura that makes people want to get closer.
Su Jinyun thought to herself, "No wonder so many people like her; my Qianluo is just that outstanding."
Whether it's their outstanding talent or their kind and upright character, they are irresistible.
It would be strange if anyone didn't like her. Look at her now, her heart and mind are full of the people and the country, she probably won't be thinking about feelings anytime soon.
There's still plenty of time, so I don't need to rush things.
Thinking of this, Su Jinyun's eyes sharpened, a resolute glint flashing within them. She secretly plotted in her heart: "The most urgent task is to deal with that troublesome Qin Shouzhen."
He's always been old-fashioned and conservative, his mind full of those outdated rules and dogmas. If I don't get on his good side, he might sabotage my plans.
Hmph, I'll get him to agree no matter what it takes!
At worst, I'll put in more effort to persuade him slowly, or find something he cares about to restrain him. In short, I absolutely cannot let him ruin my future with Qianluo.
Amidst days of laughter, joy, and dazzling fireworks, the lively New Year's Day festival came to an end in the blink of an eye.
In the streets, the remaining large red lanterns still hang high, their tassels swaying gently in the wind, but the festive hustle and bustle has gradually faded away, replaced by busy daily life.
During this time, Qin Qianluo devoted herself wholeheartedly to preparations for going to sea.
Just a week after New Year's Day, the army that was going to conquer Japan set off in a grand procession amidst the deafening sound of bugles.
The streets were packed with people seeing them off, the crowd so dense it was impossible to move. They all stood on tiptoe, craning their necks, wanting to catch one last look at the soldiers who were about to embark on their journey.
In the crowd, some people waved handkerchiefs and shouted the names of their loved ones, while others silently shed tears, their eyes filled with worry.
Some people clasped their hands together and whispered prayers for peace.
Lin Ruoqing and Qin Qianyu stood at the front of the crowd, their eyes filled with pride.
His daughter and sister, looking heroic and spirited, were dressed in military uniforms and rode majestically on tall horses, about to head to the battlefield to defend their home and country.
This honor made them stand tall and proud.
But the thought of the unknown road ahead and the ruthlessness of the battlefield brought a wave of worry to his heart, causing his brows to furrow involuntarily and his eyes to be filled with concern.
Lin Ruoqing gripped the hem of her clothes tightly, her fingertips turning white, and murmured to herself, "Luo'er, you must come back safely."
Qin Qianyu's eyes also reddened, and she sobbed softly, "Little sister, you must take good care of yourself."
Qin Qianlu rode on her tall and strong warhorse, her posture upright like a pine tree, her gentle gaze sweeping over her family members in the crowd.
Seeing her mother and sister, she smiled slightly, revealing a comforting smile that was like the warm spring sun, instantly dispelling the gloom in their hearts.
It was as if it was silently saying, "Don't worry, I will definitely return safely."
Turning her gaze to her father, who stood in front of the officials, she saw that although his expression was calm, his eyes could not hide his worry and reluctance. Qin Qianlu's eyes were full of tenderness and affection.
Looking at her older brother behind her, her eyes were filled with encouragement and trust, which warmed Qin Qianluo's heart.
This journey is long and arduous, with no return date in sight. Though my heart is filled with countless worries, I can only express them in this deep and affectionate glance.
She gently raised her hand to wave goodbye to her family and said loudly, "Father, Mother, Sister, Eldest Brother, wait for my triumphant return!"
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