He often reflected on the sweet life he shared with Lan Lan, her every smile and lively demeanor vivid in his mind. Though that time wasn’t long, it was enough for him. After all, she was married to the Rui Prince, a remarkable man, and he cherished those few years of happiness.
During the pursuit by the Sky Eagle Nation, despite the old man’s efforts to save him, he felt the scar running from his eyebrow to his face. The handsome face he once took pride in, which had attracted many women, was gone. Every time he inadvertently lifted his veil, he heard gasps and screams. Each cry eroded his confidence, leaving him afraid to stand before the woman he loved and smile. No injury hurt him as much as the thought of her potential fear.
Sometimes, he wandered around the prince’s residence, finding satisfaction in merely catching a glimpse of her. When he heard she had died from poisoning, his heart seemed to stop.
If she were gone, the only person who made him cherish life would be lost too. What joy would he have in living, what fear in dying?
He felt guilty towards his parents, who had raised him with great difficulty, yet he had never repaid them. A selfish son, he had imagined marrying and having children to let his parents enjoy family happiness. But was it misfortune or blessing that he fell deeply in love with a pure, otherworldly princess who was already married? Father! Mother! If there is a next life, I will be a good son, serving you at your knees, no longer causing you worry.
After waiting many days at the prince’s residence, he finally saw the old immortal who had saved his life enter. He believed in the old immortal’s ability to save her again. So, upon seeing the old immortal arrive, he reluctantly left.
As long as she was fine, he could go. Without her, living anywhere was the same. If there were no unexpected circumstances, she would learn of his whereabouts. Would she still miss him? Would she come looking for him? He held on to the last bit of hope.
He stood there until sunset, then took a deep breath and slowly turned to leave.
