After a while, Wei Lin stopped the horse, worried about Xi Linxuan’s comfort. Her hair, once dancing in the wind, now hung by her cheek.
“Run more and you’ll become a female Kuafu,” Xi Linxuan said, his arm unrelaxed.
The orange-red sun set perfectly on the horizon like a large red ball.
“If we could chase the sun to the end of the sky and see its true face,” Wei Lin mused.
“Do you like this grassland, Wei Chenbi?” Xi Linxuan asked.
“I love it! Books say that in summer, if you part the grass, there are bubbles with shrimp and fish. In winter, there are roe deer. You’d be well-fed all year round; how easy!” Wei Lin replied.
Hmm, an ambitious idea. This palace will grant you a large grassland later, where you’ll catch fish, shrimp, and hunt deer for me. Xi Linxuan laughed, leaning on her shoulder.
Great! A big grassland is what I want. Come, pinky promise— a gentleman’s word is as fast as a horse’s whip. Wei Lin extended her hand, sealing their oath with a clasp and two pats.
Alright, it’s late spring and early summer now. Let’s see your tribute. Before Wei Lin could respond, Xi Linxuan dismounted and stood beside the horse.
Your Highness, Your Highness…
Didn’t I tell you I can move freely now? Don’t believe me? This palace will punish you. Xi Linxuan raised an eyebrow.
Wei Lin carefully jumped off the horse, handed the reins to Xi Linxuan, then jumped away, laughing: Come on, chase me. If you catch me, I’ll accept the punishment.
With a slightly lame foot, how could he catch her? Confident, Wei Lin ran backward. But when she saw Xi Linxuan running, she was gradually surprised and slowed down, allowing Xi Linxuan to catch her, pulling her into his embrace.
My legs are better than you thought, Xi Linxuan said.
Your Highness looks majestic when striding. I can’t help but be charmed, Wei Lin laughed.
Ah, even limping, why not stride confidently to cover this small flaw?
*
Riding a horse is tiring. This palace wants to sit and rest a bit. Xi Linxuan pulled her to sit down, facing the sunset.
Wei Lin leaned on his shoulder, filled with joy. This moment of quiet companionship felt impossible yet unforgettable.
