Chapter 12: Jade flute leads the general back, brocade tent and red candles, a perfect match
As the sun sets, a steed gallops along the official road. The young man on horseback stands tall and straight, dressed in military uniform. His handsome face looks slightly tired, and he frantically waves his whip, hoping for even greater speed.
Two years and nineteen days. It was late spring when I left, and deep spring when I returned. Luo Guyun muttered silently.
He was not far from Lizhuang and was about to see the person he had been thinking about day and night. He took a long, deep breath, suppressed his pounding heart, and tried his best to look calm and composed.
Turning the corner, I could see the blue tiles and white walls of Lizhuang. A faint sound of a flute reached my ears.
It’s Yue’er!
Luo Guyun suddenly tightened the reins, too hastily. The horse leaped up, neighed loudly, and circled before coming to a stop. Listening intently, he realized the flute sound was coming from the direction of the manor. He dismounted and walked, following the sound towards the manor.
Xiao Xiangyue sat on a stone bench in the courtyard, surrounded by a dozen people, both adults and children. A jade flute was placed before his lips, and the clear and melodious sound of the flute reverberated in the twilight. After playing a song, everyone applauded. A child said in a crisp voice: "Young Master, I still want to hear you play that... the one about herding." Xiao Xiangyue smiled softly: "Are you talking about "Shepherd's Song"? That song will sound better when played on a bamboo flute." As he spoke, he turned sideways to pick up the bamboo flute. He raised his eyes and saw a young man standing outside the courtyard. He was wearing a neat military uniform and leggings. On his handsome face were a pair of affectionate eyes, staring at him intently. Those eyes seemed to be burning with flames, wanting to melt the person in front of him into his burning gaze.
Clang! The bamboo flute fell to the ground.
"Brother Yun!" Before the voice had even finished, the man had already thrown himself into his arms. The impact made Luo Guoyun's body tremble, and he immediately picked him up and flew around in a circle before stopping and putting him down. He stroked the boy's face, looking at him intently. Of all the words he could say, he could only say one: "The stone bench is cold. Sitting on it in such thin clothes, what if you catch a cold?"
After Luo Guyun and Yi Shui left, it didn't take much effort to reorganize the troops. Everyone still remembered how good Commander Luo had been to the brothers. It was a time when there was no leader and no one was willing to obey anyone. Luo Guyun raised his arm and called on the people, who were willing to support and follow him. A very small number of people who were close to Yang Laosi were worried that they would be retaliated against after Luo Guyun came to power, so they either suppressed or subdued him, using both kindness and force. In half a year, he had brought hundreds of thousands of troops under control. For long-term planning, Luo Guyun decided to submit to the Nanjing government, which was also Commander Luo's intention before his death. At that time, the government was reorganizing the revolutionary army and sent important officials to win over the troops. Luo Guyun and Yi Shui took the main generals to negotiate with the central government. The violin was purchased in the concession when passing through Shanghai on the way to Nanjing.
The Nationalist government had long intended to recruit Commander Luo's troops. Seeing that Luo Guoyun, despite his youth, possessed the same aura and skill as his father, he should not be underestimated. After several rounds of negotiations, Luo Guoyun was awarded the rank of Army General and appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Southwest and Northwest Defense Forces. He was also granted millions in military funds and promised to give him free control over 30% of local customs duties. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers were thus officially incorporated into the Central Military Commission.
Just when he breathed a sigh of relief, thinking that he could go back to Lizhuang to pick up Xiao Xiangyue, the Japanese army launched a massive attack on North China. Luo Guyun did not have time to write a letter, and he rushed to the front line. He led tens of thousands of soldiers and joined forces with other armies to fight fiercely with the Japanese army at various passes and fortresses on the Great Wall. The battle lasted for more than half a year. When the war stopped for a while, an armistice agreement was signed. Then there was a flood in the Yangtze River area, and the postal route was blocked. There was no way to communicate. This delay lasted until the end of the second year. The government also sent a telegram of commendation for his meritorious service in resisting the enemy and ordered him to go to Nanjing to receive the commendation. Luo Guyun was eager to return home, and replied that the soldiers were tired and needed to rest urgently. He would go to the central government next year. He went directly back to Anyang City. After settling the team and handing over all military affairs to Yishui, he took Li Erhu and several other personal guards and rushed back to Sichuan day and night. Local officials inevitably fawned over the new defense commander-in-chief, a procession of obstacles and obstacles. It wasn't until late February that they reached the Sichuan provincial capital. The provincial governor personally led officials from various administrative offices to report on their work and discuss defense matters, delaying them for over ten days. This was followed by various banquets and welcome events. Luo Guoyun, impatient, left several of his personal guards behind to attend the banquets. He drove to Yishun County alone, accompanied by Li Erhu. With no road available, they switched to horses and drove back non-stop. With a few dozen miles to Luling County, Li Erhu's horse sprained its leg, and he couldn't catch up. He returned to Lizhuang alone at dusk.
"Yue'er has grown taller!" Xiao Xiangyue used to only reach his chest, but now she's shoulder-length. "Why do you seem to have lost some weight? Are you not eating well?" Luo Guyun frowned distressedly.
Xiao Xiangyue had not yet recovered from the joy of reunion, and just kept smiling foolishly with her hands on his chest.
Luo Guoyun carried Xiao Xiangyue on his back and, like they did when they were little, staggered back to the South Courtyard. The two of them, having met again after a long separation, naturally had endless things to talk about, whispering to each other and staying awake all night.
Luo Guoyun's return caused a stir throughout the village. Hearing that he had been promoted to general and commander-in-chief, the men in the village protection team cheered and vied with each other to meet him, creating a lively atmosphere for several days.
"Did Yue'er receive the Western musical instruments I sent back? Do you like them?" Luo Guyun, who finally had some free time, was rolling out dough in the kitchen. Xiao Xiangyue wanted to eat the shrimp wontons he made.
"Yue'er likes it very much and has even composed a new piece of music..." Xiao Xiangyue lay on the side, watching Luo Guyun's skillful movements, unable to help at all. An idea came to her mind: "How about Brother Yun be in charge of the wrapping hand, and Yue'er be in charge of playing the violin for you?" Luo Guyun laughed: "That's great!"
The melodious sound of the piano flowed softly, like a slowly lingering stream, or like the hazy veil in a dream. Luo Guyun listened with a smile at first, his hands moving non-stop. As he listened, his smile faded, and he stood there in a daze, eyes closed, as if in a trance. When the song ended, tears streamed from his tightly closed eyes. Forgetting his hands were covered in flour, he hugged Xiao Xiangyue tightly, sobbing, "Yue'er, are you tearing my heart out?"
Xiao Xiangyue's music, upon first listening, is gentle and soothing, like a whisper in your ear. It's like a love letter, filled with nothing but ordinary words like "I miss you and I love you," yet between the lines lies a tenderness and deep affection that can't be hidden. Or like a person, whose internal organs have been shattered into pieces, yet whose face is filled with a sweet smile. A closer look reveals that beneath the gentleness lies a wailing, a gentle and heartbreaking wail. Luo Guyun felt as if he were being tortured by a soft knife, each cut piercing his bones, excruciating pain. Xiao Xiangyue's deep longing for him over the years, the lingering thoughts in her dreams, the silent tears she shed in the dark night, the pain she suffered alone in the shadows—all these can be heard in this song, as if she were experiencing it herself. How could he not weep?
"Yue'er, let's get married." After a long silence, Luo Guyun said in a deep voice. He paused, and then seemed to be talking to himself: "I want to be with Yue'er for the rest of my life, never to be separated."
Xiao Xiangyue nestled quietly in his arms, without surprise or hesitation, and only replied softly, "Yeah."
"The date is set for ten days later. April 1st, Yue'er's sixteenth birthday." Luo Guyun continued.
"Yeah." Xiao Xiangyue answered again.
Upon learning of their decision to get married, Chunmei and her uncle were stunned for a moment. Her uncle was fine, as he had anticipated this. He still remembered the night before Luo Guoyun left, when he had come to the West Courtyard and confessed his feelings for Xiao Xiangyue. He knelt on the ground and entrusted Yue'er to him. He said that if he could return safely, he would be with Yue'er forever. If he could not return, she asked her uncle to take charge and find a good marriage for Yue'er after he turned eighteen, and to protect his safety and happiness. Luo Guoyun had not been heard from since he left, and her uncle had secretly guessed that the young man had been impulsive and had changed his mind after seeing the colorful world outside. Some time ago, Xiao Xiangyue became ill due to worry and was worried about this fool. If Luo Guoyun betrayed him, he was afraid he would not survive. Later, he was relieved to see that he had thought it through. Her uncle had been wandering around for half his life, alone and miserable, and had been accompanied by music all his life. He did not care much about love affairs. He felt that as long as two people liked each other, regardless of gender, they should be together. Having a companion is always better than being alone, so why bother with all that? So I just accepted it calmly.
Chunmei was shocked and at a loss. She sat before Mrs. Luo's coffin all night, thinking everything over. She hoped that Mrs. Luo could enlighten her on what to do.
She had seen with her own eyes how good the relationship between the two young masters was. She felt that the young master had probably given all his tenderness and patience to the younger young master. Such a bold and unrestrained person, in front of Xiao Xiangyue, was considerate and attentive to every detail, which really touched her heart. That year, a girl from Chenjiazhuang admired the young master. She thought the girl was both beautiful and virtuous, and wanted to bring them together, but the young master rejected her outright. She just stayed with Xiao Xiangyue day and night, and she had some feelings for him. But she never wanted to think about it that way, and only hoped that they were brothers with deep affection. Chunmei wanted to object. If we talk about Xiao Xiangyue's appearance and character, there was nothing wrong with him except that he was a man. The young master was a man of iron will, and he was not afraid of death. If there was anything in this world that the young master could miss, cherish his life at the critical moment of life and death, and would not leave easily, it must be Xiao Xiangyue. Chunmei sighed. No matter how important ethics and morals were, they were not as important as life. I guess the lady is such a gentle and kind person that she couldn't bear to break up her son's only wish in this world... As for offspring, it would be solved if he could take a concubine in the future... After sitting there until dawn, Chunmei finally figured it out.
As for their friends, the two only informed Li Erhu and Cheng Jin.
Li Erhu was a devoted and devoted man, accompanying Luo Guyun through thick and thin, always obeying his every decision without question. Furthermore, having spent the past few years by Luo Guyun's side, he had witnessed firsthand how much the young master missed the young master, calling out for Yue'er in his dreams. Now that his wish had finally come true, he was happy for the young master.
Cheng Jin was not surprised at all, as he had long noticed that the relationship between the two was unusual. In his eyes, Luo Guoyun was a peerless hero, and Xiao Xiangyue was the bright moon, a perfect match. He also felt that no matter whether it was a man or a woman, it would be strange if they were not moved by Xiao Xiangyue's peerless beauty all day long. As Xiao Xiangyue's closest friend, he certainly had no improper thoughts, nor did he dare to have other ideas. It's just that aesthetics cannot be deceived, just like seeing a piece of rare jade, it is difficult to see anything else. He wandered around the flowers all day long, but he felt uninspired and was not sincere to anyone. He sincerely hoped that Xiao Xiangyue and Luo Guoyun could be wholeheartedly devoted and their love would last forever.
It was a beautiful spring day, and the two of them rode their horses slowly.
Luo Guoyun meant that after the wedding, he would take Xiao Xiangyue with him to Nanjing. Classes were off the table. That day, she accompanied him back to school to resign, and stopped by a cloth shop to get her wedding attire tailored.
Xiao Xiangyue was already an excellent rider, but Luo Guoyun refused to let him ride alone. He squeezed onto the same horse, scooping her up in his arms and nuzzling her ears. Remembering how Yue'er had teased him on his back when they were little, Luo Guoyun, wanting revenge, mischievously bit her ear and kissed her cheek. Xiao Xiangyue was so annoyed that he twisted and struggled.
Luo Guyun suddenly shouted, "Don't move!" Seeing his serious expression, Xiao Xiangyue thought something was wrong and didn't dare to move. Then, she felt something hard pressing against her from behind, and then she realized what was happening... Her face flushed red, and she yelled like she did when she was a child, "Brother Yun is bad! Brother Yun is bullying me!" Luo Guyun just liked to see him like this, and he bullied her even more vigorously.
Xiao Xiangyue said helplessly: "Brother Yun, if you continue like this, the moon will fall!" Luo Guyun laughed loudly, and his hearty and joyful laughter echoed in the fields.
The news that Luo Guyun was promoted to general and became the commander-in-chief of defense was already known to everyone. He had been hiding his identity until now, but now everyone knows that he is Luo Qifeng's son. When he arrived at the school, he thanked the principal for his hospitality. He praised him for his great talent and said he was a natural-born general. He also praised Xiao Xiangyue for her talent, saying that it was a pity that she could not continue to teach. The students were very sad to see her go. Several teachers also came to say goodbye. Luo Guyun bowed and said, "My brother has been very grateful for your care. If you need any help in the future, please let me know and I will do my best." Everyone was impressed by the extraordinary demeanor, humility and courtesy of this legendary general.
"I think the young female teacher looks at Yue'er in a very different way." After leaving the school, the two of them rode their horses slowly, and Luo Guyun suddenly said.
"You are talking about Miss Zheng, right?" Xiao Xiangyue replied. Then she started to talk about how she had made enemies with the young master of the Guan family and how Cheng Jin led people to fight. Xiao Xiangyue was shy and not good at expressing herself. She would only talk more in front of Luo Guyun. At the end, she asked him to judge: "Brother Yun said that Jin was too domineering?" Luo Guyun raised his eyebrows and said: "How is Jin domineering? If I were here, the brothers of the Guan family would definitely be ruined." Xiao Xiangyue glared at him: "So Brother Yun is so domineering." Luo Guyun smiled and said: "Who told him to provoke Yue'er?"
After chatting all the way, they arrived at the cloth shop. Xiao Xiangyue picked out a piece of fine dark red embroidered brocade, which Luo Guyun also thought was nice, festive yet not gaudy, perfect for a wedding. He took her measurements and asked the shopkeeper to make an exact replica. Seeing his young master, now a general, the shopkeeper smiled so much that his eyes narrowed into slits, and he grumbled, "Young master, are you going to a wedding? What other wedding could you possibly attend with such grandeur? You'd be so proud..." Luo Guyun just smiled and said nothing.
"Will Yue'er feel wronged that we don't have any guests at our wedding?" Luo Guyun asked carefully as he rode back.
Luo Guyun thought over and over again: since they were both men, marrying was too shocking. He didn't care, but he didn't want Xiao Xiangyue to suffer from other people's strange looks. After all, they were the ones to live their lives, and with his bold, uninhibited, and free-spirited personality, he didn't need to pay any attention to those irrelevant people.
Xiao Xiangyue didn't answer. After a while, a heavenly song rang out from the horseback. It was beautiful, graceful and affectionate:
Your green collar is always in my mind.
Even if I don't go, why don't you send me a message?
Your green jade pendant fills my mind with endless thoughts.
Even if I don't go, why don't you come?
I am on my way to the city wall.
A day without seeing you feels like three months.
The soft singing, the lingering sound, is like the gurgling water in the mountain stream, clear and transparent, sweet and refreshing, soaking Luo Guyun's heart.
It was the first day of April. Red lanterns were hung high in the south courtyard, and the door lintel was wrapped in red satin, creating a festive atmosphere. Luo Guyun and Xiao Xiangyue were dressed in dark red embroidered brocade gowns, one was dashing and suave, the other elegant and handsome, with joy in their eyes and brows. On Luo Guyun's side, Chunmei represented the parents, Li Erhu was the best man, and the betrothal gift was the jade pendant left by his mother. On Xiao Xiangyue's side, Shibo represented the parents, Cheng Jin was the best man, and the betrothal gift was the jade flute left by his father. Bench father officiated the wedding, and Bench served as the flower girl. There were no guests, the wedding was simple, yet grand and full of ritual. After paying homage to heaven and earth, and to their parents, the two bowed to each other. Luo Guyun helped Xiao Xiangyue up, and he could not bear to look away.
Chunmei prepared a banquet. After everyone drank the wedding wine, they escorted the couple to the bridal chamber and then tactfully left. Inside, red candles flickered, a warm atmosphere abounded. Luo Guyun took Xiao Xiangyue's hand and sat them down on the bed covered with a bright red wedding quilt. Raising his glass, he softly said, "Let's drink this wedding wine. Yue'er can't drink, so I drank it for you."
Xiao Xiangyue said anxiously: "No! Yue'er wants to drink!"
Luo Guyun went along with it, saying, "Okay, give it to Yue'er..." He tilted his head back and drank it all in one gulp, swallowing most of it, leaving a small sip. He placed his lips on Xiao Xiangyue's, pried them apart, and passed the wine in his mouth to him bit by bit. The mellow aroma of the wine instantly filled Xiao Xiangyue's mouth, and with a single "hmm," he was taken away from her breath.
Luo Guyun's kiss was as fierce as a storm, like parched earth longing for dew, greedy and fiery, fierce and unwavering, without hesitation. Xiao Xiangyue closed her eyes obediently, as if everything was natural, hugging him tightly, licking his lips and teeth, wrapping her neck around him, and lingering until death.
His breathing grew heavier as Luo Guyun tore off Xiao Xiangyue's brocade robe, peeling off her undergarments, revealing half of her snow-white chest and shoulders, which he then licked, kissed, and bitten. Xiao Xiangyue's body softened into a ball, and she reached out with trembling hands to help him untie his outer robe. With her clothes disheveled, Luo Guyun's body felt like it was on fire. In a few seconds, he removed all the restraints on the two of them. Their skin pressed against each other, the smooth and numb feeling that made his blood rush up, and he could no longer endure it. He fished out a box of ointment from under his pillow, took out a little, and tremblingly reached back.
He felt that the person in his arms had become soft as mud, without any strength left. Luo Guyun withdrew with difficulty. The bright red blood flowed on the snow-white bed sheet, which was shocking. His head banged, and he came back to his senses from the overwhelming pleasure. Yue'er was injured! He looked at the person under him again, his face was pale and his eyes were scattered. He was so panicked that he kept calling: "Yue'er, Yue'er!" Xiao Xiangyue was almost losing his mind due to the pain. When he heard Luo Guyun calling him, he hugged him back tremblingly and said in a hoarse voice: "Yue'er... Yue'er is so happy."
In the middle of the night, Xiao Xiangyue developed a fever. Luo Guyun twisted a handkerchief and placed it on his forehead to cool him down, constantly changing it. His mood was a world of ice and fire. The memory of last night's soul-stirring pleasure filled his abdomen with heat and a rush of blood. But the thought of Yue'er being hurt was heartbreaking.
Could it be that there was something wrong with the cream? Luo Guyun wondered. The box of cream was given by a waiter in a brothel. It was common for military officers and soldiers to visit brothels when they were not fighting. To win people's hearts, Luo Guyun would occasionally attend a few of these social events, but he would just drink and not ask anyone to accompany him. One time, he called a waiter and asked in detail about how men made love. Seeing that this handsome general had spent money just to chat and not do anything, the waiter naturally told him everything he knew. At the end, he gave him a box of cream and taught him in detail how to use it. He secretly memorized it in his heart, looking forward to the day when he and Yue'er would make love.
It must be that the grease from this brothel is of poor quality! Luo Guyun thought he had found the reason. In fact, given the size of his body and Xiao Xiangyue's delicate figure, no matter how careful she was during her first time, injuries were inevitable.
Luo Guyun paced back and forth in the room, feeling depressed. The table was piled with gifts from everyone yesterday, and there was a scattered bundle that looked like a book. He opened it casually and saw that it was all kinds of erotic picture albums and story books. Luo Guyun laughed. Needless to say, it must be the work of that kid A Jin... He flipped it over and out fell a thin booklet with the words "The Secret Art of Long Yang". He sat down and took a closer look. The first few pages showed pictures of various male sexual positions. The last two pages had text that listed some special things to pay attention to. One of the prescriptions caught his interest. It said that musk, borneol, and more than a dozen other Chinese herbs, supplemented with porcupine oil, could be boiled into an ointment to make an excellent lubricant. Luo Guyun thought, these Chinese herbs are common and readily available in pharmacies. But fresh porcupine oil is hard to find.
The sleepy Xiao Xiangyue stirred slightly and called out softly, "Brother Yun."
Luo Guyun hurried forward and asked anxiously, "Are you feeling better, Yue'er?"
The wound had been treated with the finest medicine. Looking at the tender flesh twitching at the tear, one could imagine how painful it must have been. Luo Guyun stroked Xiao Xiangyue's face and said angrily, "Yue'er, why didn't you push your brother away when you were in so much pain?"
Xiao Xiangyue regained some strength and looked at Luo Guyun with her beautiful eyes, which seemed to be shimmering with light. She whispered, "Brother Yun is in there... Yue'er can't bear to leave..." This sentence almost made him cry again. He held Xiao Xiangyue's face with both hands, foreheads pressed together, and murmured, "Silly Yue'er..."
"Thirst..." Xiao Xiangyue propped herself up slightly, and Luo Guyun quickly held her down: "Yue'er, don't move, be careful not to pull the wound." She held the water in her mouth, leaned over and passed it to him in small sips. She licked up the overflowing water with her tongue, cherishing him with all her heart and showing infinite tenderness.
After three or four days of recuperation, Xiao Xiangyue had almost recovered. When he heard that Luo Guyun was going to Longquan Mountain to hunt and camp, he was very excited and clamored to go with him. Luo Guyun also wanted to put him in his pocket and was reluctant to be separated from him for a moment. After thinking for a while, he said: "Okay. It's cold in the mountains, so you should bring more clothes." Xiao Xiangyue asked curiously: "Why does Brother Yun suddenly want to hunt porcupines?" Luo Guyun hugged him from behind and whispered to him on the cheek. Xiao Xiangyue blushed, broke free and ran into the bedroom, and did not come out for a long time.
Longquan Mountain lay over fifty miles from Lizhuang. Luo Guyun, Xiao Xiangyue, Li Erhu, Cheng Jin, Heizhu, and Afeng, accompanied by Ban Bench and Sanhu, marched towards the mountain. By the time they reached the mountainside, it was already dark. They pitched their tents, built a bonfire, and roasted pheasants and rabbits they had hunted along the way. The aroma soon filled the air, making everyone salivate.
Luo Guyun took out a clay pot containing the angelica and barley porridge he had prepared long ago. He heated it over the fire, carefully tore some roast meat and placed it on top, then scooped up a spoonful and fed it to Xiao Xiangyue.
Xiao Xiangyue swallowed a mouthful and reached out to take the earthenware pot, "Yue'er, eat it yourself." Luo Guyun quickly dodged, "The pot is hot, Yue'er, be careful." He scooped up another spoonful and fed it to her. Everyone had long been accustomed to Luo Guyun's meticulous and considerate attitude towards Xiao Xiangyue. They pretended not to notice. They drank and ate meat, played finger-guessing games, laughed and played, and had a great time.
The moon rose above the branches, casting swaying shadows on the trees, and the forest was serene and tranquil. After Xiao Xiangyue had eaten and drunk his fill, he pulled a clay xiao from his bag and, standing beneath a pine tree, began to play. The xiao, with its deep, mysterious tone, was often used by the ancients during hunting. He had heard about the hunting trip, and on a whim, he had taken a few impromptu lessons with his uncle-master a couple of days ago, and he was already playing it quite well.
A relentless, mellow, low-pitched sound drifted through the forest. Captivated by this quaint, simple melody, everyone looked toward him, their voices falling silent. The ethereal, powerful sound of the xiao reached their ears, a profound, ancient, and profound sound, evoking a deep sense of reflection. It was as if one could feel the vibration of one's soul, as if recalling past lives or perhaps glimpsing the afterlife.
Xiao Xiangyue, clad in a white brocade gown with fine silver patterns, stood gracefully in the woods, his demeanor unparalleled. He closed his eyes, playing the xiao, completely absorbed in the music, as if merging with the vast night. Moonlight streamed down from behind, shrouding him in a thin, ethereal glow, almost surreal. The dancing flames illuminated his exquisitely handsome features, his face shaped with unparalleled perfection. His beauty seemed unreal, resembling an elf fallen to earth. He captivated, captivating everyone.
The sound of the xiao had died down. Everyone seemed to have lost their minds, staring blankly at Xiao Xiangyue in silence for a moment. After a while, Sanhu spoke out what everyone was thinking: "The moon is so beautiful!" Cheng Jin came to his senses and patted him: "Did you call me Yue'er?"
Luo Guoyun stepped forward, draping the thick robe over him, and softly said, "It's late at night, the dew is heavy. Don't catch a cold." He had been deeply shocked just now. Yue'er's beauty was breathtaking, and when she was completely immersed in music, she was even more beautiful, almost extremely seductive. In that outside world, who knows how many people would covet her. Thinking of Yue'er's innocence and lack of defense, he couldn't help but feel a sense of fear. He must be careful to protect her.
It was already three o'clock in the morning. Xiao Xiangyue had fallen asleep in Luo Guyun's arms. The hunting ground was still seven or eight miles away. Porcupines often emerged from their dens to forage at dawn, so they needed to set their traps immediately to get them there before daybreak. The ground was damp and cold, so Luo Guyun had prepared a hammock, carried the sleeping figure aboard, and wrapped her in a quilt. Leaving Cheng Jin, Sanhu, and Bandeng to guard the camp, he led the others deeper into the forest.
When Xiao Xiangyue woke up, it was already bright daylight. She was delighted to find herself sleeping in a hammock. She half-closed her eyes, gazing up at the blue sky and white clouds peeking through the gaps in the trees. She hummed a little tune, kicking her legs and swinging back and forth, feeling refreshed and at ease.
Several figures emerged from the dense forest...Brother Yun is back! Xiao Xiangyue was so excited that she forgot she was in a hammock. She rolled over and wanted to run over. Luo Guyun was quick-witted and rushed over to catch the man who was about to fall to the ground.
"Brother Yun is injured!" Luo Guyun had gauze wrapped around his palm. Xiao Xiangyue saw it and exclaimed in surprise.
"It's okay...it's just a minor injury. This beast is ferocious and covered with thorns. It stung me even though I was tied up." Luo Guyun was in a good mood after hunting the porcupine. He hugged him and gave him a big kiss, smiling happily.
Everyone happily went down the mountain carrying porcupines, roe deer, pheasants and other trophies.
After a night in the dense forest, Luo Guyun felt very clean. He took off his outer clothes and prepared to take a bath. Xiao Xiangyue followed him in and reached out to help him take off his underwear.
"What is Yue'er doing?" Luo Guyun covered his clothes.
"Brother Yun is injured. The wound cannot get wet. Yue'er will help you take a bath." Xiao Xiangyue said seriously, as if it was a matter of course.
"This..." Luo Guyun was embarrassed. "Brother, it's okay... Wash yourself. Yue'er, get out first..." He coaxed and carried her, then pushed her out. He slammed the door shut and doused her with a bucket of cold water. He used to be able to endure it, but after that soul-stirring night, he'd gotten addicted. These days, he barely dared touch Xiao Xiangyue, fearing he'd lose control and hurt her again. A bath? The thought of that scene made his blood boil. The ointment wasn't ready yet. If his blood boiled and he didn't care, he'd regret it.
Xiao Xiangyue stood at the doorway, thinking for a moment: Brother Yun must be worried that seeing her wound would make her feel frightened and sad. Was Yue'er really that fragile? Brother Yun was really underestimating her...
More than a month passed. Yi Han wrote to say that the mansion prepared by the Nanjing government for Luo Guyun had been properly packed up, urging him to go back as soon as possible. Now the army is managed by Yi Shui, and Yi Han is in charge of internal affairs. After the army has been rectified, it is united and there will be basically no chaos. Luo Guyun can then sneak some time to go back to Lizhuang to pick up Xiao Xiangyue. The Japanese are now eyeing the Northeast covetously, and their wolfish ambitions are obvious. The domestic situation is complicated, and there are some things that Luo Guyun must personally deal with. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers are looking forward to his return. Knowing that Xiao Xiangyue is reluctant to leave Lizhuang, Luo Guyun also wants to stay with him for a while, but no matter how much he delays, there will be a day to leave.
All the men in the village protection team wanted to follow the commander-in-chief into the army. Luo Guoyun had established a rule: only sons and elderly parents in need of support would not be accepted. He only selected Heizhu and Afeng, who had been responsible for protecting Xiao Xiangyue for the past two years, to accompany him. Li Erhu decided to make the rest of the arrangements and led the team directly to Pingyang City. He himself planned to take Xiao Xiangyue by sea, via Yishun County, to the provincial capital.
Ah Jin also wanted to go with them. The Cheng family had only one son for three generations. His father and cousin threatened to commit suicide, but he would not let him go. Cheng Jin had no choice but to become more decadent, sleeping with prostitutes all day long. One day, he got drunk, holding Xiao Xiangyue's hand, and cried bitterly. Xiao Xiangyue was anxious and kept comforting him: "Ah Jin... don't cry, wait two years... come to us again..." Luo Guyun didn't like him holding Xiao Xiangyue, and was even more dissatisfied that he was about to make her cry. He walked forward, pulled back his hand, and patted Cheng Jin on the shoulder: "Ah Jin, work hard. Give your father a bunch of grandchildren as soon as possible, and you will be free. You are welcome to come to us anytime." Cheng Jin thought about it and it made sense. It was as if he saw a ray of light in the dark night, and he cheered up a little. Xiao Xiangyue looked at Luo Guyun with admiration: "Brother Yun is really amazing. Yue'er tried to persuade him for a long time but it was useless. Brother Yun's words made Ah Jin feel better..."
Xiao Xiangyue and his uncle shared a father-son bond. As they approached their separation, Xiao Xiangyue was deeply reluctant to let him go, hoping he would come with her. His uncle shed tears and said, "I'm old, and I don't want to wander any longer. I'm destined to be with Lizhuang, and this is where I'll be buried. Yue'er has surpassed me, and I have no regrets. I only have one thing to ask of you." Trembling, he pulled out a stack of sheet music and a letter, then continued, "When he was young, he had a disciple named Lu Hankun, who was considered your senior brother. He ran a film studio in Shanghai in his early years. I heard from Yun'er that you'll be staying in Shanghai this time. If you find him, please give him these rare books and scores. They will be a token of my gratitude to you."
After the farewell banquet, it was already late at night.
Xiao Xiangyue snuggled in Luo Guoyun's arms, unable to sleep. She was leaving tomorrow, and she felt incredibly reluctant. Her eyes darted into the house. She had come to Lizhuang at the age of ten, and six years had passed since she'd grown from a child to a teenager, fallen in love with Luo Guoyun, and married him. Every object was filled with emotion, overflowing with memories.
"The toilet is useful." He, who had been silent all this time, suddenly spoke in a muffled voice.
This toilet was made with great care by Brother Yun before he left. I feel warm inside every time I use it.
Luo Guyun laughed, this baby... is really cute.
The two were newlyweds, and they were enjoying themselves these days. Luo Guyun's personality made him want to stick to her day and night. But considering Yue'er's health, he didn't dare to be too presumptuous. But they were inseparable, as sweet as honey and oil, and they were as happy as living gods. In the past few days, Master, Chunmei, Ban Bench, Cheng Jin, all shed tears, making Xiao Xiangyue depressed, and Luo Guyun was also annoyed. He had been thinking about how to comfort him. He thought about making her tired and let her sleep like he did when he left, but he felt that it was not appropriate, because Yue'er had to get up early tomorrow. She was tired from the journey, so she had to take care of herself. If she said something inappropriate, it would make her sad again. After thinking about it, she kept silent and waited for him to speak. But she didn't expect Yue'er to say such a sentence.
Luo Guyun took over the conversation: "Second brother has had the mansion in Shanghai cleaned up and installed the latest toilet and a large bathtub. Look how cold it is to take a bath in winter! Brother is always worried that Yue'er will catch a cold. From now on, you can take a bath every day...it's okay..." He whispered a few words in her ear. Xiao Xiangyue was embarrassed and punched Luo Guyun on the chest before finally smiling.
"The Luo Mansion in Pingyang City has also been renovated. Yue'er is already a member of the Luo family, don't you want to go back and take a look?" Luo Guyun said mischievously.
Xiao Xiangyue raised her head slightly, glared at him, and said, "Brother Yun is also a member of the Xiao family. Yue'er wants to go back to Alsophila Valley to visit my parents' graves." She felt better and spoke more cheerfully.
"Yeah, brother thinks so too. Doesn't Yue'er like taking a boat? Let's take a boat to Yishun County first, and then go to Alsophila Valley to pay homage to our parents before leaving." Luo Guoyun did make such arrangements.
"I don't know where Grandpa and Brother Sun have gone. Yue'er misses them so much." Xiao Xiangyue sighed.
After Luo Guyun and Xiao Xiangyue arrived in Lizhuang, Cheng, the shopkeeper, went north to purchase medicinal herbs and had asked him to inquire about the Alsophila Valley. He was told that the theater was in ruins, with no one there. Even the hunters at the valley entrance had disappeared. Later, he sent people to search the surrounding area, but there was no news.
"Speaking of Alsophila Valley, I'm dying to hear that little song the moon sang in the tree hole again," Luo Guyun changed the subject. This was his tried-and-true way to coax Xiao Xiangyue to sleep. Xiao Xiangyue hummed softly, and Luo Guyun patted her gently, gradually drifting off to sleep.
At the Qingyi River wharf, a large ship quietly docked on the water. Over a hundred people gathered on the shore, all there to see Luo Guoyun and his group off.
Chun Mei wiped her tears and said, "Master, don't worry. Aunt Chun will protect this family business for you. If there is no war one day, you can come back and live a leisurely life."
Uncle Master held Luo Guyun in his arms, "Yun'er, treat Yue'er well... Uncle Master is old, and he doesn't have many years left to live. Yue'er is foolish... Don't let him down." Tears welled up in his eyes as he spoke. Luo Guyun bowed solemnly and said, "Uncle Master, don't worry. Yue'er is more important than my life. I will not let him down."
County Magistrate Li also came with several officials to see him off. He clasped his fists to Luo Guoyun and said, "General, you have fought for your country, defending the borders and land. The people of Luling are proud of you. I hope you take good care of yourself. The people of Luling are eager for you to return home."
Over there, Principal Xie and two teachers, Ban Deng, Cheng Jin, and San Hu, surrounded Xiao Xiangyue, bidding a reluctant farewell. Twelve-year-old Ban Deng barely reached Xiao Xiangyue's waist, clinging to him like a plaster, unwilling to let go. Shu Jiangchun's head chef, Chef Jiang, carried several food boxes and handed them to Hei Zhu, who was following him. "I've made some of the young master's favorite foods. Take them with you on the journey."
Luo Guyun was afraid that if they were delayed for too long, Yue'er would be sad, so he ordered the boat to set sail quickly.
Xiao Xiangyue stood at the bow, waving frantically. The fog thickened the river, and for a moment, it was impossible to see the people on shore. She began to play her bamboo flute again, its sharp, resounding notes piercing the thick fog and echoing lingeringly across the river. After the boat had sailed several miles, she figured the flute's sound would no longer be audible on shore, and she stood there feeling lost.
Luo Guyun put a cloak on him and hugged him gently with the cloak: "The wind is strong on the river, let the moon come into the cabin." Xiao Xiangyue leaned against him, lowered her eyes and said nothing.
The river breeze chilled Xiao Xiangyue's flute-holding hands. Luo Guyun rubbed them against his chest, knowing he was reluctant to leave. He coaxed him softly, "In a few years, when the war ends, I'll retire and return to the countryside. I'll accompany Yue'er back to Lizhuang and live there forever. We'll go watch fireflies together every summer, okay?"
"Well, Yue'er still wants to drink frog leg porridge every day." Xiao Xiangyue said in a muffled voice.
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