Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Qi was at a loss for words, unable to express his thoughts further. He had exerted great effort to assist Ding Jinshan, but it appeared that his fellow villager was resistant to his help. This distressed Qi, as he realized that Ding Jinshan’s negative attitude could cause problems once they arrived at the military camp.
Qi felt a tinge of embarrassment, unsure of how to handle the situation. In his desperation, he turned to his Fifth Brother, Shao Yunduan, seeking guidance.
Shao Yunduan felt a sense of satisfaction, recognizing that Qi had matured and was no longer a child. However, instead of directly providing him with an answer, Shao Yunduan chose to steer Qi towards finding his own solution. He wanted Qi to think for himself and arrive at a decision independently.
After some contemplation, Qi came to a conclusion. The following day, Shao
Yunduan spoke, “Once we are both at the military camp, 1 will take care of Ding Jinshan to the best of my abilities. 1 will talk to him and assist him as long as I can. However, I won’t allow him to become a burden to me. My parents, as well as you, my brothers and sisters, hold greater importance in my life. Ding Jinshan is merely a neighboring villager, and I will inform him of his responsibilities. If he chooses not to listen, then our relationship ends there.’
Shao Yunduan nodded approvingly, wearing a smile. ‘You’re absolutely right. Do your best, but leave the rest to fate. There will be no reason for you to feel regretful. I have entrusted Manager Qin with the task of writing a letter to Young Master Xie, requesting him to lend us some military books. Read them and prepare yourself.”
Shao Xiaoqi felt a slight pang of surprise. He wasn’t particularly fond of reading, but since this idea came from his Fifth Brother, he knew he had to support it. Reluctantly, he nodded and said, “Fine… I will read the books and seek your guidance if I come across anything 1 don’t understand.”
Shao Yunduan nodded, his smile growing wider.
Although Qi had never been fond of reading, Shao Yunduan believed that he could teach him to read well enough to understand the military books. And that was sufficient for Qi’s purpose.
As the year drew to a close, Ding Jinshan got married. The Shao family refrained from hosting a grand wedding, but as they contemplated Qi’s departure, their initial happiness diminished, and they began to dote on Qi.
Qi, however, failed to notice any difference. While he missed his home, the anticipation of his upcoming journey and the possibilities it held motivated him greatly.
During their journey, Qi once again successfully hunted a wild boar, this time weighing a whopping 150 kilograms.
Dozens of people came together to collect the wild boar.
Qi and the other villagers had encountered wild boars before, but none as massive as this one. The wild boar was so large that it formed a small mound in the yard.
Word spread, attracting many visitors to the village who came to witness the spectacle. They marveled at the long, sharp fangs and the thick, black mane resembling steel needles, finding them intimidating to behold.
Yet it was Qi alone who had managed to bring down this formidable beast.
Naturally, the villagers praised his archery skills.
‘Qi is truly remarkable with his arrows!”
‘Qi’s abilities are astounding. This beast leaves me in awe.”
“No wonder his family is thrilled to have him join the army. He’s destined for greatness!”
“You’re absolutely right!’
People began to comprehend the underlying reasons behind Qi’s family’s support for his decision.
Ms. Fang sighed, feeling a mix of emotions. She couldn’t help but worry. Her child had grown up and formed his own ideas. As his mother, she couldn’t simply take control of everything anymore..