Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
However, the villagers in this area were leading relatively comfortable lives. No families were without a home or lacked food. Consequently, the idea of getting involved in the military recruitment was met with reluctance.
Unexpectedly, Qi himself proposed to join the army, catching his family off guard. It happened right after they had enjoyed a delightful dinner prepared by Qiao Xuan.
Everyone was taken aback, thinking they must have misheard him.
Qi reiterated his proposal, and Ms. Fang immediately snapped at him, “You foolish child!” She raised her hand as if to slap him, but the others intervened
swiftly, preventing any harm.
“Qi, don’t be reckless. You can’t speak of such matters so casually!”
“Yes, we have more than enough food and clothing at home. Joining the army is extremely dangerous! Stay here with us!”
“Going into battle as a soldier is terrifying! It’s much safer to remain at home!” “You’re still young and ignorant! Don’t go, just stay with us!”
“Listen carefully! This discussion must not leave this room or reach anyone else! I will not hesitate to deal with anyone who spreads this news!”
Only Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan remained silent, contemplating the situation.
Qi felt deeply saddened by his family’s reactions. He turned to Shao Yunduan, his fifth brother, and asked with determination, “Do you also find me ridiculous? Do you object to my proposal?”
“Don’t speak to him. Of course, he objects! Let’s end this discussion now, or I will beat you!’
Ms. Fang became irritated once again, and she was about to physically harm Qi when the others intervened and stopped her.
Through sobs, Ms. Fang exclaimed, “You foolish boy! You’re deliberately trying to anger me! We had just started to experience happiness in our lives, and now this!”
Shao Yunduan spoke in a gentle tone, “Mom, please don’t worry. Dad, let me have a private conversation with Qi. We’ll have a meaningful talk.” Ms. Fang and Eldest Uncle sighed with relief.
Ms. Fang nodded, saying, ‘Convince him to change his mind!”
Shao Yunduan led Qi away to the study in his own yard.
Inside the study, Qi lowered his head, biting his lip, visibly distressed.
Shao Yunduan looked at Qi intently and let out a heartfelt sigh.
Qi had grown taller and stronger. He was no longer a child.
In another two or three years, Qi might even surpass his older brother in height and strength. Would he become stronger than him as well?
Qi had already displayed impressive capabilities. He could hunt large animals with ease, displaying remarkable skill and agility. His sharp gaze and proficiency with the bow made him truly admirable. It was impossible for anyone to perceive him as just an ordinary teenager given his exceptional abilities.
Shao Yunduan honestly didn’t believe that he should confine Qi indoors.
Qi, not as eloquent as his Fifth Brother, scratched his head and turned to Shao Yunduan. “Fifth Brother, I can take care of myself. Please let me join the army! ”
Shao Yunduan asked, “Are you certain about this?”
Qi nodded vigorously, his determination evident. “Yes, yes! I really want to join the army!’
“You understand that joining the army is not a trivial matter. Once you’re enlisted, there’s no turning back. Deserters are beheaded.”
“When you’re in the camp, you’ll start as a low-ranking soldier, enduring the harshest living and eating conditions, worse than what our family has experienced in the past.. If you have a harsh commander, your life will become even more miserable!”