Huoyan Nan gently looked at Shan Xiaoya, pulling her into his embrace and covering her with his cloak to shield her from the strong wind. He pointed into the distance. “Xiaoya, do you see? That’s the Manyi Kingdom. Its ruler has enormous ambition.
With his strength, he will eventually invade our Jin Ri Kingdom. By then, our people will become enslaved, at the mercy of others.”
Single Xiaoya’s cold eyes flickered with curiosity. She asked puzzledly, “General, that won’t happen with you around. They all say you’re a great hero. As long as you’re here, no other country would dare to attack.”
Huoyan Nan sighed deeply. “When the previous Emperor was alive, he was very concerned about border defense. Military provisions were never lacking. Now, alas! In this situation of significant disparity, I can only do my best to protect the Jin Ri Kingdom.” His face was full of worry.
Single Xiaoya spoke coldly and indifferently: “General, why worry about this? No matter who rules, people’s lives remain the same. Throughout history, regime changes have always been like this – not something one or two people can decide. At worst, we’ll go somewhere new and restart our lives.”
“Xiaoya, if only it were that simple. You don’t understand. As a general, I have my mission and responsibility. It’s not something I can just walk away from.”
“General, perhaps you’re right. But if your abilities can’t change anything, I advise you to think more openly.”
Huoyan Nan was moved by Single Xiaoya’s words. What a phrase – ‘humans cannot overcome heaven’s will’.
Could the Jin Ri Kingdom’s fate be exhausted? No! He couldn’t have such treasonous thoughts. He had promised to support the current Emperor and must not go back on his word. Guilt filled his heart for that momentary thought… He was also shocked by Single Xiaoya’s strange perspective…
Hu Yannan said without changing his expression: “No need to trouble yourself, Xiao Ya and I came out for a stroll, and we should go back now.”
