106,8 - Little Peasant Wife

After a slight pout, Jing Ao Xue crawled onto the bed, leaning over Shen Lu Man, who was lying with her back to her. She whispered near her earlobe, her voice muffled through the vine, "Wife, I know I was wrong. Please untie the vine; I can barely breathe." Shen Lu Man paused, turned to give her a glare, and said, "Let that be a lesson to not speak recklessly next time." In the very next moment, Jing Ao Xue felt the vine around her mouth vanish. She chuckled softly, snuggled closer to Shen Lu Man, and sighed, "Wives are the best, so warm and soft to hold. It's really comfortable." Shen Lu Man's face turned red as she began to resist slightly. But Jing Ao Xue wasn't quite satisfied with just that. She leaned in to give her a loud smack on the cheek before lying down and saying, "Okay, let's sleep. We have to wake up early tomorrow." What a scoundrel! Shen Lu Man glared at her, but upon seeing her close her eyes, and even pretending to snore, she couldn't help but shake her head with a mix of amusement and exasperation. Though tightly held by her, making her somewhat uncomfortable, the fresh scent emanating from Jing Ao Xue filled her senses, and sleep soon beckoned her. So, she let it be. Early the next morning, after breakfast, the family headed out towards the Wu household. On the way, Liu Er spoke up, "Mother, after we visit Aunt Wu and my foster mother today, I'd like to spend a few days in the mountains." Curious, Shen Lu Man asked, "Why?" Then, recalling that the phoenix had awakened yesterday, she guessed a little and asked, "Did you mention the matter of the Bai Ma Priestess to the Demon King Phoenix?" Truth be told, she wasn't keen on letting the Bai Ma Priestess know about this. But since Liu Er had already mentioned it, there must be a reason behind it. Liu Er responded with a nod and a light smile, "The Bai Ma Priestess is utterly loyal to the Demon King. Since returning and seeing us, I felt she has been withholding something important. Perhaps in front of the one she reveres most, she'll finally spill the truth." Hearing this, Jing Ao Xue was taken aback. Previously, she hadn't noticed Wu Yi Ling hiding anything. Could it be that Liu Er was better at reading people? Come to think of it, Liu Er had spent years learning by Qin Yi Shu's side, who was a grand master of strategy and foresight. Liu Er must have picked up quite a bit too. Exchanging a glance with Shen Lu Man, Jing Ao Xue said, "Alright, I’ll go up the mountain with you tonight." Quickly, Liu Er replied, "No need. The Demon King wishes to discuss other matters alone with Wu Yi Ling. She doesn't want anyone else to know..." Jing Ao Xue’s face fell with anger, "Then why drag you along? If she’s so capable, let her go alone!" Liu Er looked at her, speechless, "Mother, have you forgotten what you instructed me to do yesterday?" Shen Lu Man glanced at Jing Ao Xue, questioning with her eyes what she had said. Jing Ao Xue couldn't recall, then it hit her... Oh! She remembered now, awkwardly scratching her nose. Yesterday, when Shen Lu Man was cooking in the kitchen, she had hinted to Liu Er to stay over at Qin Yi Shu’s house for the night, to give her the chance to be intimate with Shen Lu Man. Whatever happens, this should never reach Shen Lu Man's ears. Clearing her throat, Jing Ao Xue put on a serious face and said, "Ah, I see. Be careful when you're in the mountains then." Liu Er smiled, "Don't worry, Mother. With Xiao Hui watching over me, I won't be easily harmed." She continued walking ahead. Shen Lu Man grabbed Jing Ao Xue’s arm and asked quietly, "What was that about? Why am I the only one uninformed?" Jing Ao Xue scratched her head, laughed it off, and said, "It's nothing serious. Hey, when we get to the Wu family, you should visit Wu Zhi An's wife first. The letter I previously read mentioned she had a difficult labor for this child and is still bedridden. It's not convenient for me to go into her room, but you can bring over some pills for her. It's just a small token of our concern." Shen Lu Man had a sense that Jing Ao Xue was changing the subject. Nonetheless, she knew Jing Ao Xue never hid anything significant from her; she had even confessed the truth about their time travel. This sudden secrecy from the mother and daughter duo might be something trivial. What could it be? Shen Lu Man narrowed her eyes, thinking: Oh well, there’s no need to be too restrictive with Jing Ao Xue. She's an adult and should handle matters appropriately. The group arrived at the Wu family's courtyard. Inside, they could hear Chun Ge'er shouting, "Dad, fourth brother wet the bed again, get a diaper." Wu Zhi An's voice followed, "Just hold on a bit. I'm feeding your mother right now. Can't you take a couple more steps yourself?" Chun Ge'er complained, "Ugh, I'm so busy! Second brother, stay still, and third brother, you too! Quit running circles around me, my head's spinning!" The children's innocent laughter rang out endlessly, creating a lively atmosphere. Jing Ao Xue couldn't help but laugh, "This family's lively enough to form a football team." Shen Lu Man shot her another look, while Liu Er asked, "What's a football team?" Jing Ao Xue paused, then remembered and replied, "It's Cuju." Liu Er thought for a moment and nodded, giggling, realizing they were quite similar. Jing Ao Xue stepped forward and knocked on the courtyard gate, to which Chun Ge'er asked, "Who is it?" Jing Ao Xue responded, and soon the sound of footsteps approached. Chun Ge'er opened the door, sweaty from his exertions, "Aunt Jing, you've returned from the mountain? Oh, Liu Er's here too! Come in and sit; I'll go call my big brother." After speaking, he ran off. Jing Ao Xue found this amusing. Chun Ge'er was now eight or nine years old. Being a young boy, his growth was initially slow, making him shorter than Liu Er, which made him self-conscious when standing next to her. Around the New Year, he finally explained the reason: standing next to Liu Er made him feel shorter, even though they were close in age. He said it with a hint of grievance, which had the adults chuckling. He probably ran off hurriedly now for the same reason. Understanding, Jing Ao Xue entered the courtyard. Wu Zhi Yong came out from the kitchen while Chun Ge'er went inside to change the diaper for his newborn brother. Wu Zhi Yong, drying his hands, said, "You’re back. Things are a bit chaotic here, please have a seat." Jing Ao Xue sat down on a bench. Shen Lu Man announced she would check on Wu Zhi An’s wife, and Wu Zhi Yong agreed instantly, allowing her to go inside. Standing beside Jing Ao Xue, Liu Er greeted, "Hello, Uncle Wu." Wu Zhi Yong replied, "Liu Er, you're here as well. With your busy schedule, it feels like ages since we last saw each other. My nephew mentioned you recently. He's back from the academy in town too, having these days to stay home..." "I’m heading back to inform Madrina and ask Meng Qiu to meet with you and Chun Ge'er. You kids haven’t had a chance to gather and play." Wu Zhi Yong sighed a little. He knew his daughter, Meng Qiu, had certain unordinary feelings towards Liu Er. But he could tell Jing Ao Xue's family were not ordinary people, even a notch above General Qin. Liu Er was a good child, but over the years, her demeanor had increasingly mirrored Qin Gen Shu, her subtle smiles and inscrutable expression baffling even Wu Zhi Yong at times. He thought Liu Er wasn’t an ideal match. Fortunately, they'd been too busy for Meng Qiu to see much of her. This rare opportunity to reunite, paired with a convenient excuse like Chun Ge'er’s presence, provided a chance for his daughter to talk to Liu Er and hopefully move on, preventing future heartbreak. Wu Zhi Yong sighed internally. People say being someone's child is tough, but being a parent is even tougher. He truly doted on Meng Qiu. Hearing his words, Liu Er wore a soft smile, "That would be nice. I have missed Meng Qiu sister and Chun Ge'er dearly. If I’m able to reunite with friends, it would be wonderful. Thank you, Uncle Wu." Seeing her response, Wu Zhi Yong forced a smile and turned to the back yard. With only Wu Zhi An's twins nearby, Jing Ao Xue couldn't help but advise Liu Er, "When you speak with Wu Meng Qiu later, remember to be delicate. Don't be like your foster mother, getting tangled up in relationships." Liu Er nodded, feeling the tiny Xiao Hui waking inside her, ferociously alert, causing her to break into laughter. Right then, Wu Meng Qiu strolled up from the backyard. She appeared taller than Liu Er, with a slender figure suggestive of delicate fragility, yet her back remained upright, exuding an uncommon, commanding presence akin to Wu Zhi Yong. Though not as strikingly beautiful as Liu Er, she was pretty in a composed, clean-cut way, a small beauty carrying an air like a gentle spring breeze that was comforting at a glance. Jing Ao Xue couldn’t help but think that if Liu Er could be with Wu Meng Qiu, it would be wonderful, certainly more desirable than the domineering, cunning Phoenix. Ah well, it's best not to overthink it. After Wu Meng Qiu greeted her, Jing Ao Xue smiled and said, "You two haven't seen each other in so long. Why not find a quiet corner to chat?" Wu Meng Qiu felt a sudden thump in her heart. As she looked at Liu Er—the village's most beautiful young girl—the shock of her presence nearly took her breath away. Taking a closer look at Liu Er, Wu Meng Qiu couldn't help but think she was even more beautiful than Jing Ao Xue, maybe because, as they say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Blushing slightly, she suggested, "Liu Er, why don't we walk down by the river and chat? I have so much to tell you." Hearing Phoenix's angry protests from within her, Liu Er paused before nodding gently, "Alright, sister Meng Qiu, after you." Wu Meng Qiu took the lead out of the courtyard, with Liu Er following closely behind. Wu Xun Chun had Chun Ge’er tag along to give the two some privacy for their conversation. Once they reached the riverbank, Wu Xun Chun kept a respectful distance behind, allowing the two girls to talk freely. Red-faced, Wu Meng Qiu started, "I've been reading 'The Great Learning' recently and found it quite profound, but there's something I don't understand, for instance..." She shared her confusion, and Liu Er nodded, proceeding to explain. While Wu Meng Qiu at first listened intently, she couldn’t help but soon become mesmerized by Liu Er's calm smile. Each time Liu Er looked at her, Wu Meng Qiu shyly lowered her head. Noticing this, Liu Er paused and casually mentioned, "Speaking of which, Meng Qiu, you're at the age where arranged matches might be discussed. Do you have anyone in mind?" Wu Meng Qiu's face flushed crimson, unable to string together a coherent response. Liu Er sighed, "I'm a bit envious of you, sister. I recently found out that back in the cultivation world, I have a betrothed. When I return, I’m expected to marry her." Wu Meng Qiu's reddened cheeks turned pale, "A fiancée? Why didn't you ever mention this before?" Liu Er replied, "I only recently learned of it myself. I've always regarded you as a close friend, so I thought you deserved to know. How do you feel about it, sister?" Feeling cold all over, Wu Meng Qiu murmured, "You've... you've never even met your fiancée. How can you accept this engagement?" Liu Er smiled, "Marriages are about family alignments. My mother is the legitimate daughter of a great family in the cultivation world, and she arranged my engagement with a friend's family. I trust that my mother's friend's daughter is extraordinary, which makes me quite content." Switching the topic, she continued, "But once I return to the cultivation world, it’s unlikely I’ll have the chance to come back here. So, a word of advice, sister, when choosing a husband, make sure you find someone who truly loves you. If you ever feel wronged, you should..." Wu Meng Qiu's eyes filled with tears she desperately tried to hold back, "Enough, I have no such intentions for now, but thank you for your concern, Liu Er." Liu Er sighed, seemingly oblivious to Wu Meng Qiu's distress, "That might be for the best. You're gentle by nature, likely to suffer grievances in the future. But Chun Ge'er is capable, and he'll surely be able to look after you." With that, she waved Chun Ge’er over. Chun Ge’er had been glaring angrily in another direction. Liu Er squinted her eyes, glancing towards where Chun Ge’er was focused, "Chun Ge'er." Her voice was neither loud nor soft but carried clearly to Chun Ge'er's ears. He scowled at some local women who had just passed by with mocking sneers. They were known gossipers in the village, perpetually nosy and intrusive. Since his family started making money, these women hounded his mother for details, and when she discreetly held her silence, their resentment towards her and the Wu family grew. They frequently prowled about the fields for information. After a brief quiet from the last scolding they received, now they resumed their gossiping. Just moments ago, they had joked about his sister having an affair with Liu Er. Utterly laughable—Liu Er was so young, and even if his sister had feelings for her, being privy to all interactions, he was sure they'd never overstepped any boundaries. Those vile words not only sullied his sister’s reputation but also smeared their honor. Chun Ge'er clenched his fist, ready to square up, when Liu Er’s call interrupted him. Frustrated and displeased, he approached, "Let's head home soon; there are too many busybodies around here." He noticed the redness in Wu Meng Qiu's eyes and had a hunch about the outcome. Sighing internally, he began, "Sister..." Wu Meng Qiu cut him off, her voice slightly hoarse, "Enough, let's just go home." With that, she briskly walked back. Chun Ge'er trailed behind her. Once she was out of earshot, he shot Liu Er an irritated look, "What did you say to my sister to upset her so much?" Expressionless, Liu Er replied, "I told her she's always been like a sister to me and that I have a betrothed back in the cultivation world." Chun Ge'er was momentarily stunned. He had always known Liu Er had no other intentions towards his sister, but the justification was... remarkably harsh. Curious, he asked, "I believe the first part, but that fiancée business has to be made up, right?" Liu Er smiled at him, "It's true. I've already been arranged into a marriage. I can't let Meng Qiu wait for me." Chun Ge'er clicked his tongue, "You’re good at keeping secrets, huh? Well, now that’s out in the open, it’s probably for the best. My sister's excellent; plenty will line up at the door for her. Being stuck with someone as cold as you might not be too fun." Seeing Liu Er's meaningful smirk unnerved him, he awkwardly laughed it off, choosing to drop the subject, before quickly following Wu Meng Qiu back home. Meanwhile, Wu Zhi Yong was pouring tea for Jing Ao Xue, smiling, "These tea leaves were brought from further south. They’re supposed to have a sweet taste. Knowing you're not fond of bitterness, I brewed this for you. Give it a try." Jing Ao Xue wasn't particularly interested in tea, but she never resisted something to eat or drink. Taking a sip, she admitted, "Not bad, it has a sweet tinge." Wu Zhi Yong chuckled, watching his rambunctious twin nephews in the courtyard, "Time sure flies. These little mischievous ones have grown so quickly." Jing Ao Xue nodded, "Indeed." The years had passed quickly. Most of her time had been devoted to meditating and cultivating, her journey of re-cultivation proceeding much faster than her first attempt. Once at the Foundation Establishment phase, she'd need to venture out for training experiences rather than continuing indoor practices. Since the family's cultivation level was quite advanced, perhaps it was nearing the time to prepare for the cultivation world. Noticing Wu Zhi Yong gazing at her youthful, unchanged face brought him thoughts back to his recent reflections when cooking, glancing at his reflection in the water cistern. Time had etched more wrinkles onto his face, and a morning glance in the mirror showed gray brushing his temples. While he had long sensed his physical vigor waning with age, those strands of silver hair painfully reminded him of the harsh truth: he was growing old. With a sigh, he reminisced, "Time is peculiar. I remember Meng Qiu wailing in my arms like it was yesterday, but now she stands tall." "Speaking of Meng Qiu, back when the Liu family relocated, she was emotionally affected. She's worked harder than Chun Ge'er, rising with the dawn to study, and learning a myriad of skills: embroidery, painting, the guzheng..." "All essentials, even learning to walk with poise, which seemed more exhausting than farming. It’s remarkable that Meng Qiu persisted all these years." Jing Ao Xue recalled Liu Er, who had endured more hardships than herself and Shen Lu Man. As adults, their natures were set; their years focused mainly on cultivation. But Liu Er, besides cultivating, devoted herself to study under Qin Yi Shu and Shen Tai Hua. Jing Ao Xue remembered her own school days as light and easy, though not without moments of boredom, when not compelled by her teacher. Liu Er was different. During breaks from cultivation, she eagerly read, buying books from town. Jing Ao Xue often found the large books Liu Er read daunting, and she sincerely said, "The kids have worked hard." Noticing Wu Zhi Yong rotating his neck, she asked, "Does your neck hurt?" Wu Zhi Yong nodded, "I suppose it's age; my neck often feels uncomfortable." Jing Ao Xue realized Wu Zhi Yong was in his early thirties and curiously asked, "Speaking of which, with Meng Qiu growing up and Wu Zhi An having five children in quick succession, have you ever considered remarrying?" Having a partner might mean someone to lean on in old age. Children eventually grow up, marry, and start their families. Wouldn't it be lonely without someone beside you? Villagers had gossiped about this since the Wu family’s prosperity had become apparent—they certainly weren’t short of silver. Given Wu Zhi Yong's good fortunes, even a young girl might find it appealing to wed him. Yet, Wu Zhi Yong consistently refused, without ever explaining why. Upon hearing Jing Ao Xue's inquiry, Wu Zhi Yong chuckled gently, "In my lifetime, I've only ever cherished my wife. Our time together was short, but I still remember every word she ever said to me. She would always remind me when it was cold or warm, something I'd never experienced before." "She was gentle and considerate. When I enlisted, she supported my decision and promised to wait for my return. Who would have thought that a few years later, upon my return, we would be worlds apart." His eyes glistened with tears, "I don't wish to marry a woman I don't love. Meng Qiu is my everything, and I hope she finds a common man, or even another subhuman, who will care for her sincerely. As long as she's cherished and they have children together, I'll be content." It was a heartfelt wish of a parent, selflessly thinking for his child's future, though perhaps without considering her desires fully. The sincerity of it, however, was undeniable. Jing Ao Xue understood, but the thought of Liu Er's impending match still made her uneasy. With a sigh, she confessed, "I also wish for Liu Er's happiness. Truth be told, Liu Er has already... found someone to spend her life with. She came today to clear things up with Meng Qiu." Hearing this, Wu Zhi Yong's face turned slightly pale, but he managed a relieved smile. "That's just as well. I understand that the paths you and Liu Er will take are vastly different from ours." "As fate would have it that we should meet; if we can't be in-laws, we can always remain friends. You're always welcome at my home for a drink." Jing Ao Xue nodded with a smile, clinking her tea cup with his. In the courtyard, Wu Zhi An's twin boys were at it again over some trivial matter, with one of them rubbing his eyes in tears. Carrying an empty bowl, Wu Zhi An stormed out and barked, "You two quit making a racket! Your mother needs her rest; it’s like my words go in one ear and out the other, huh?” With quivering lips, the two boys exchanged uneasy glances, about to burst into tears. Wu Zhi An paused, quickly adding, "Don't cry! You cry and I'll smack your butts." His wife emerged from the room, carrying another child, speaking gently, "Dear, they're just kids; they don’t understand much yet. Speak to them patiently. There's no need for anger." Shen Lu Man also came out cradling another newborn, cooing softly to the little one. Wu Zhi An sighed, "I'm just worried they'll disturb your rest. What are you doing up? It’s chilly; watch you don't catch a cold." His wife chuckled, "I'm not as delicate as all that. Besides, Green Man's medicine helped a lot. Rather than cooping up inside, it felt good to bring out the little one for fresh air. It's already spring, the weather’s warm; there’s no need to worry." Wu Zhi An scratched his head, nodding sheepishly, then turned to Shen Lu Man and said, "Thank you for helping with the baby. I wouldn't manage alone." Holding the soft, tiny bundle in her arms, Shen Lu Man couldn't help but smile, "It's no trouble at all; this little one is quite well-behaved. I can watch her a bit longer." Wu Zhi An expressed his gratitude repeatedly, guiding his wife to the courtyard to sit. As he quickly greeted Jing Ao Xue, she noticed the sweat on his brow, acknowledging how challenging it must be for him. With so many children in the household, the adults could barely keep up. As Shen Lu Man approached, Jing Ao Xue peered over at the infant. The child's face was so tender and small, as if one touch might melt it. Not daring to disturb her, Jing Ao Xue leaned in out of curiosity, "Is this a boy or a girl?" Shen Lu Man replied, "The one I'm holding is a girl, quite docile. Her mother holds her brother, who's the elder." Just then, the boy in Wu Zhi An's wife’s arms puckered up and began to cry again. Watching this, Jing Ao Xue felt overwhelmed, muttering, "Good thing we don’t have a baby in our family." Seeing the little ones made her reconsider having children. Could she really care for a newborn properly? Doubts crept in. Hearing her, Shen Lu Man gave her a deep look, "Don't you like them?" Jing Ao Xue scratched her head, "I do, but... I'm afraid I might not be good at caring for a child." Shen Lu Man smiled, "Why don't you try holding one and see for yourself?" Despite wanting to decline, Shen Lu Man’s insistence left her no choice but to awkwardly and stiffly cradle the infant. Perhaps feeling the change, the baby girl furrowed her brows before opening her eyes. After a glance at Jing Ao Xue, she closed them again, smacking her little lips adorably. Jing Ao Xue exclaimed in surprise, "Her eyes are open!" Shen Lu Man laughed, "Of course, she's alive, after all. What on earth are you saying?" Wu Zhi Yong leaned in as well, observing the baby girl and commenting, "This little one resembles my Meng Qiu. She’ll undoubtedly grow into quite the beauty." Uncomfortable still, Jing Ao Xue handed the child back to Wu Zhi Yong, who skillfully took over, showing just how accustomed he was to handling his siblings' children. Rubbing her stiff arms, Jing Ao Xue remarked, "I truly admire Wu Zhi An for managing so many kids." Wu Zhi Yong laughed, "Once they're born, you must raise them. Many things are just thrust upon you. I remember when my wife was pregnant, I never imagined myself a father. Yet, the emotions that followed are a mix. Watching her grow—it has been nothing short of a marvel." For a straightforward man, such insight was rare indeed. Right upon finishing, Wu Meng Qiu entered, wiping tears from her eyes. Catching Wu Zhi Yong's heartfelt words, she moved closer, her voice tinged with tears, "Father..." Wu Zhi Yong glanced at Liu Er, standing guilty nearby, and understood everything. Passing the baby back to Shen Lu Man, he said, "Meng Qiu, let's go for a walk." Meng Qiu nodded, wanting to save face from her brothers, and followed Wu Zhi Yong out. Jing Ao Xue felt a bit of a third wheel, tempted to slip away, but with Shen Lu Man still helping with the children, she could only stay put. She approached Liu Er, whispering, "You spoke your truth, then." Liu Er nodded lightly, "I did. I’m lifelong friends with Meng Qiu." Chun Ge’er sighed, turning to his mother to hold his brother so she could rest. Liu Er glanced at the baby with Shen Lu Man, "Such a cute little one. Makes me want a little sister." Jing Ao Xue frowned, still uncertain. Children weren’t toys; once born, they required dedication. Feeling unprepared, she hesitated greatly at the thought. Seeing her expression, Liu Er felt a tinge of helplessness. Only when Wu Shu and Aunt Wu returned to help with the children did Jing Ao Xue see her chance to present their generous gifts for the full-month celebration. Excusing themselves soon after, they promised to visit another time. As they headed towards Qin's household, Jing Ao Xue mused aloud, "Having too many kids sure seems troublesome. Dear, maybe we shouldn’t have any ourselves. After all, having Liu Er seems enough." Shen Lu Man remained silent, while Liu Er frowned, "Mother, we have a good home and decent cultivation now. Why are you so against having a little sister?" Jing Ao Xue, feeling pressured, said, "Earlier, it wasn’t convenient. Now, I just haven't decided yet. You witnessed Wu Zhi An’s chaotic household. With so many kids, they can hardly manage. I know we’d only have one, but a child isn’t a plaything. It requires commitment, and as I am... I'd probably fail as a mother." With self-deprecation, Liu Er quickly countered, "How can you say that? I believe you are the best mother in the world—beautiful, smart, and you’ve raised me so well over the years." Looking hurt, she added, "Do you think poorly of me because I was raised by you?" Jing Ao Xue paused, "Of course not, Liu Er. You're the best, but..." "But what?" Liu Er and Shen Lu Man asked in unison. Jing Ao Xue felt overwhelmed and quickly changed the subject, "This isn't urgent; let's handle today's business first." Liu Er squinted, exchanging a glance with Shen Lu Man. Seeing her mother's resolute eyes, she laughed, "Alright, after all, we should head to my foster mother's place first." Jing Ao Xue was relieved that Liu Er dropped the question, allowing herself to relax. Upon reaching Qin Yi Shu’s home, where an additional child kept everyone bustling, even with many servants, Qin Yi Shu personally tended to childcare matters. As the family was warmly welcomed in by the staff, Qin Yi Shu was gently rocking her newborn to sleep. Hearing Liu Er's arrival, Qin Wu Shuang let out a cheer, temporarily setting aside her brother to run and greet her. Eagerly clinging to Liu Er, she greeted Shen Lu Man before pulling Liu Er inside to see her brother. Shen Lu Man followed, entering the room with them. Since Jing Ao Xue, being a subhuman, found it inconvenient to enter Gu Bai Wei's room, she settled herself in the main hall to wait. Before long, Qin Yi Shu emerged, commenting, "You've come down the mountain. The commotion we heard earlier must have been your doing, right?" Jing Ao Xue nodded, "It was my wife. She advanced to the Golden Core stage, which drew a heavenly thunder tribulation. To my shame, it scared Wu Zhi An's wife into early labor. I was wondering about Miss Gu..." "It's fine," Qin Yi Shu reassured with a slight smile, though signs of exhaustion shadowed her eyes. With the birth of her child, she'd barely rested. She continued, "In fact, I should thank you for presenting this opportunity. The court is in chaos, and neighboring kings will surely seize this chance. It won't be long before this dynasty falls." Jing Ao Xue was puzzled, though her interest in political matters was minimal. Curious about Qin Yi Shu's newborn son, she asked, "So subhumans and women can have sons?" Qin Yi Shu paused, recalling an amusing anecdote shared by the elder physician, Gu Qing, and couldn't help but laugh, "You're really clueless on this topic, aren't you?" Jing Ao Xue, feeling embarrassed, scratched her nose, "I never considered marrying a woman before, and afterwards, didn't know who to ask. It's just odd that they can have sons." Logically, a subhuman would need the Y chromosome for a male child to be possible. Jing Ao Xue, despite not specializing in genetic studies, had basic biological knowledge from her post-apocalyptic lab days. Considering subhumans as a new species, she could let go of understanding their peculiar traits, but how they could produce a boy was baffling. Would she and Shen Lu Man be able to have a son? Unable to deduce this on her own, she asked directly, "Since you seem knowledgeable, I'm asking you." Qin Yi Shu explained, "Subhumans and women can have boys, girls, or subhumans. Beyond that, men and women with ancestral subhuman lineage can also bear subhumans." "But the birth rate for subhumans is incredibly low, said to require exceptionally robust health. Without that, only boys or girls are born, which explains the rarity of subhumans in the mortal world. As for why it happens, I haven't researched that, so I can't give you a clear answer." Jing Ao Xue murmured in acknowledgment, "I hadn’t paid much attention before. Now, I’m pondering whether to have a child or not. Liu Er keeps asking for a sister, and I sense my wife would like that as well. But I'm worried about my ability to care for a child. Liu Er is only ten, and cultivators live such long lives. Is there need to rush?" Qin Yi Shu looked at her, sighing, "I don't know how long cultivators live, but mortals have such fragile lifespans. Whether ordinary folk or royal princes, lives often span only decades." Reflecting on her newborn, she remarked, "Subhumans can’t inherit the throne—boys and girls can. To seize the ultimate power, progeny is essential. Despite all precautions, accidents happen. If my only child perished, the court would descend into chaos, which I won’t allow." "Publicly, that's the reasoning. Personally, I want Wu Shuang to have siblings as support. Properly raised, her blood siblings can support each other. I won't be around forever, and Wu Shuang's real reliance will be her brothers." "This is why common folk have many children. Strength in numbers makes family a more reliable haven than outsiders." "However, this doesn't hold the same weight in the cultivation world, where your lifespans far exceed mortals’. With sufficient power, you and Shen Lu Man alone could protect Liu Er." She narrowed her eyes, seemingly pondering more, leaving the rest unsaid.