[Childhood Sweethearts Have an End] (81-90) Author: No Cat Under Heaven

Author: No Cat Under Heaven
Word Count: 35723

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Chapter 81 Jiuhua Gate

Lin Ling heard Xia Xiao say that this departure might last for half a year, and she felt both reluctant and a little angry.
He hadn't said a word before, and now he suddenly told her that he was leaving for so long; he really was willing to let her go.

Lin Ling lowered her head and walked forward without saying a word.

Xia Xiao caught up with her. "Why aren't you saying anything... Are you angry?"

Lin Ling said sullenly. "You've already made up your mind, what am I supposed to say?"

"Aren't you going to ask me what I'm going to do?"

"What are you going to do?"

"Do you know the Jiuhua Sect in Danyang?"

"Of course I know."

"I'm going to Danyang this time to talk to Zhong Haoyu, the sect leader of the Jiuhua Sect, about some things."

"Really?! Zhong Haoyu is the leader of the martial arts alliance! His status in the martial arts world is almost equivalent to your father's!"

"Yes, he has a very high status, and this matter is very important, so I have to go in person."

Lin Ling pouted. "Is something so important going to take half a year? Can't you come back sooner?"

"I can't guarantee I can come back sooner, but if you want to come with me, that's not impossible."

Lin Ling stopped and said excitedly with wide eyes, "Can I come with you?"

"Yes, do you want to go?"

"Of course I want to! Zhong Haoyu of the Nine Hua Sect, I'm a martial artist myself, how could I not want to go?"

Xia Xiao raised an eyebrow. "I thought you wanted to go because you couldn't bear to be separated from me..."

Lin Ling happily clung to Xia Xiao's shoulder. "Haha, of course I don't want to be separated from you either. I heard that
Sect Leader Zhong of the Nine Hua Sect is very handsome. I've been to Danyang, that place is as bustling and lively as the capital."

"Let's make a deal first, when we get to Danyang you have to listen to everything I say. You can't do whatever you want like you do in the manor
. There might be danger outside at any time."

"I know, do you really think I don't know anything?"

The two chatted all the way back to the Seventh Prince's manor. Lin Ling had been feeling quite bored staying in the manor for the past six months
, so she was naturally very happy to be able to go out for a few months. Xia Xiao's trip to Danyang was actually
out of necessity , but since he had already discussed it with the Crown Prince, he had to go. Although Xia Ying seemed to be living
a glamorous life on the surface, in reality, Xia Xiao and the Crown Prince were gradually forming a siege against her. Xia Ying wasn't foolish; he knew that things would only get worse for him if things
continued . He plotted to establish a connection with the Jiuhua Sect, the most powerful sect in the martial arts world
. If Xia Xiao could reach an agreement with Sect Leader Zhong before Xia Ying, it would be difficult for Xia Ying to turn the tide.
Xia Xiao was going to Danyang under the guise of inspecting the progress of the South Canal project,
intending to meet with Sect Leader Zhong as soon as possible. However, he didn't want to be separated from Lin Ling. Three months wasn't a long time, and their relationship had
only just begun to improve. He really didn't want to leave Lin Ling alone in the capital for so long. That persistent Li Yiyang
was so close; he couldn't keep Lin Ling locked up.
What if the two of them rekindled their old flame? Xia Xiao thought the trip shouldn't be too dangerous and finally decided to take Lin Ling with him
. He told Lin Ling that if things didn't go smoothly, she might have to stay for half a year. This was pure nonsense. Even if the plan failed
, he would return in three months; there were still so many things waiting for him in the capital. He only said this to make Lin
Ling reluctant to leave.

On January 18th, Xia Xiao and Lin Ling set off for Danyang.

A large carriage, pulled by three tall, strong horses, sped steadily and quickly across the snow under the driver's skillful maneuver.
Inside the confined space of the carriage, small, burning charcoal stoves were placed in the four corners, and a
thick, . Lin Ling, completely naked, lay on her side on it, her long, jet-black hair flowing like
water across the pure white blanket. Her face was flushed, her eyes were glazed, and her jade-like fingers gently bit her lip, trying not to utter a sound.

The carriage traveled south. Sometimes Lin Ling would recline on the couch and read novels, sometimes Xia Xiao would coax her into engaging in some
sexual activity; besides that, there was nothing else to do. They passed through many towns along the way. Lin Ling
had been to some of these places before, and she would lean against Xia Xiao, telling him about what she had done and who she had met,
which restaurants were good, and which places were fun. Xia Xiao promised Lin Ling that when they returned, they would
n't have to rush like they had come; they could spend a few more days exploring places they liked before heading back.

The weather was still very cold at the end of January, and some towns were still experiencing snowfall. Every night when they rested at an inn,
Xia Xiao would personally choose a warm room and instruct the innkeeper to keep the fire burning brightly, afraid that Lin Ling would catch a cold
from the long journey. Every night after they bathed, Xia Xiao would gently and considerately carry her to bed
and massage her. Lin Ling's muscles were aching from being swayed around in the carriage all day, and such massages felt incredibly
soothing . Lin Ling knew Xia Xiao was working hard, so sometimes she would massage his shoulders too. Lin Ling's small hands weren't very strong,
but Xia Xiao was deeply moved by her gestures. When sleeping, Xia Xiao would tuck Lin Ling in and hold her tightly
in his arms as they fell asleep. Lin Ling listened to the howling winter wind outside, smelled the unique scent of the inn,
and thought back the past few winters when she lay alone in her inn room, unable to warm the bed no matter what she did
. It all felt like a lifetime ago.

On February 10th, Xia Xiao and Lin Ling arrived in Danyang.

That evening, Zhong Haoyu, the leader of the Jiuhua Sect, formally hosted a banquet for them. Xia Xiao, along with Lin Ling and a few trusted subordinates,
quickly settled their luggage at the Jiuhua Sect before heading to the main hall for the banquet. Zhong Haoyu himself
was somewhat different from the image of the martial arts alliance leader Lin Ling had imagined. The sect leader was about forty years old, wearing a simple crimson robe, with
a refined and polite demeanor. He appeared mature and charming, without the fatigue often seen in middle-aged men.
Lin Ling carefully observed the Zhong Sect Leader. He was arguably the most handsome middle-aged man she had ever seen.
Zhong Haoran had a long face, fair skin, sword-like eyebrows, and long, narrow eyes with a restrained, sharp glint in them, exuding an extraordinary aura.
As Lin Ling looked at him, she felt a strange sense of familiarity and warmth towards him, though she couldn't pinpoint the source of this
feeling .

Seeing Lin Ling staring intently at Zhong Haoran's face without blinking, Xia Xiao gently tugged at her
sleeve.

Lin Ling snapped out of her daze and turned to look at Xia Xiao.

Xia Xiao gave a low hum, picked up her cup, and took a sip of wine.

Lin Ling could only lower her head and eat, remaining silent.

Along the way, Xia Xiao had told Lin Ling that he was here to discuss cooperation with the Jiuhua Sect. Lin Ling didn't know what kind of cooperation could be
between the imperial court and martial arts sects, but she wasn't interested in asking further. That night, she listened to
Xia Xiao and Zhong Haoyu speak politely for a long time, but they didn't seem to be discussing anything substantial. She soon
felt sleepy, only thinking that she could finally go back and get a good night's sleep so she wouldn't have to get up and travel again tomorrow morning
.

Chapter 81 of Childhood Sweethearts Has an End: Jiuhua Sect (H)

Lin Ling heard Xia Xiao say that this departure might last for half a year, and she felt both reluctant and a little angry.
He hadn't said a word before, and now he suddenly told her he was leaving for so long; he really was willing to let her go.

Lin Ling lowered her head and walked forward without saying a word.

Xia Xiao caught up with her. "Why aren't you saying anything... Are you angry?"

Lin Ling said sullenly. "You've already made up your mind, what am I supposed to say?"

"Aren't you going to ask me what I'm going to do?"

"What are you going to do?"

"Do you know the Jiuhua Sect in Danyang?"

"Of course I know."

"I'm going to Danyang this time to talk to Zhong Haoyu, the sect leader of the Jiuhua Sect, about some things."

"Really?! Zhong Haoyu is the leader of the martial arts alliance! His status in the martial arts world is almost equivalent to your father's!"

"Yes, he has a very high status, and this matter is very important, so I have to go there in person."

Lin Ling pouted. "Is something so important going to take half a year? Can't you come back sooner?"

"I can't guarantee I can come back sooner, but if you want to come with me, that's not impossible."

Lin Ling stopped and said excitedly with wide eyes, "Can I come with you?"

"Yes, do you want to go?"

"Of course I want to! Zhong Haoyu of the Nine Hua Sect, I'm a martial artist myself, how could I not want to go?"

Xia Xiao raised an eyebrow. "I thought you wanted to go because you couldn't bear to be separated from me..."

Lin Ling happily clung to Xia Xiao's shoulder. "Haha, of course I don't want to be separated from you either. I heard that
Master Zhong of the Nine Hua Sect is very handsome. I've been to Danyang; it's as bustling and prosperous as the capital."

"Let's make this clear first: when you get to Danyang, you have to listen to everything I say. You can't do whatever you want like you do in the manor
. There might be danger outside at any time."

"I know, you really think I don't know anything?"

The two chatted all the way back to the Seventh Prince's manor. Lin Ling had been feeling
quite bored staying in the manor for the past six months, so she was naturally very happy to be able to go out for a few months. Xia Xiao's trip to Danyang was actually
out of necessity , but since he had already discussed it with the Crown Prince, he had no choice but to go. Although Xia Ying appears to be enjoying a glamorous life on the surface
, Xia Xiao and the Crown Prince are actually forming a siege against her. Xia Ying is not a fool; she knows that things will only get worse for her if things
continue this way . Therefore, she is plotting to establish a relationship with the Jiuhua Sect, the most powerful sect in the martial arts world
. If Xia Xiao can reach a cooperation agreement with Sect Leader Zhong before Xia Ying, it will be difficult for Xia Ying to turn the tide.
Xia Xiao is currently going to Danyang under the guise of inspecting the progress of the South Canal project, intending to meet with Sect Leader Zhong
as soon as possible. However, he doesn't want to be separated from Lin Ling. Three months is neither a long nor a short time, and their relationship has
only just begun to improve. He really doesn't want to leave Lin Ling alone in the capital for so long. That scheming Li Yiyang
is so close by; he can't keep Lin Ling locked up. What if the two of them rekindle their old flame
? Xia Xiao thought that this trip shouldn't be too dangerous, and finally decided to take Lin Ling with him
. He told Lin Ling that if things didn't go smoothly, it might take half a year, which was pure nonsense. Even if the plan failed
, he would return in three months; there were still so many things waiting for him in the capital. He only said that to make Lin
Ling reluctant to leave.

On January 18th, Xia Xiao and Lin Ling set off for Danyang.

A large carriage pulled by three tall, fine horses sped steadily and quickly across the snow under the driver's skillful maneuver.
Inside the confined space of the carriage, small charcoal stoves were burning brightly in the four corners, and a
thick, . Lin Ling, completely naked, lay on her side on the blanket, her long, jet-black hair flowing like water
across the pure white surface. Her face was flushed, her eyes were dreamy, and her jade-like fingers gently bit her lip, trying not to utter a sound.

Behind Lin Ling, Xia Xiao, with his bronze skin, was lifting one of her legs high by gripping her knees with one hand, his
thick, hard penis thrusting powerfully into her moist, wet vagina.

Lin Ling's leg, resting on the ground, rubbed against Xia Xiao's strong, long legs in frustration, her pearly teeth leaving
fine white marks on her fingers.

Xia Xiao kissed the fragrant, tender skin of Lin Ling's shoulder, licking the faint teeth marks. "
Baby , don't bite yourself, they can't hear you outside."

Lin Ling shook her head, refusing to remove her fingers from her mouth. Her thin, delicate nostrils flared slightly, and her
watery eyes grew even more moist.

Xia Xiao had no choice but to pry her fingers off her teeth. "Silly girl, the carriage is so loud,
what are you afraid of? You definitely won't hear it."

Lin Ling said sweetly. "But there are people outside, right outside."

Xia Xiao chuckled softly. "So what if there are people outside? You're my woman, it's only natural for us to be intimate
."

Lin Ling buried her face in the thick fleece of the blanket and said in a muffled voice, "Xia Xiao, you're just teasing me."

"Baby, you were the one who said the carriage ride was boring first."

"Mmm... Xia Xiao, be gentle, it hurts."

Xia Xiao's big penis rubbed against Lin Ling's body. "Does it hurt? Where does it hurt?"

Lin Ling said softly. "When you thrust too hard, it hurts a little inside."

Xia Xiao aimed at Lin Ling's clitoris and thrust hard. "Is it like this?"

Lin Ling felt her clitoris tremble, and her vagina involuntarily tightened and gripped Xia Xiao's penis. She moaned sweetly.
"Mmm~ It's here, dear brother, can you be gentle?"

Xia Xiao slowly withdrew his penis from her flower, slightly adjusting the angle so that the glans was aimed at the sensitive spot inside Lin Ling's vagina and
gently rubbed it a couple of times. "Baby, does it hurt when you touch it here?"

"No. But, but... ah... don't hit it like that, dear brother."

Xia Xiao's penis was thrusting in and out gently against the slightly hard, tender flesh inside Lin Ling's vagina. "Baby, do you prefer
me to hit inside you or here?"

Lin Ling's vagina was tight and delicate, sucking on Xia Xiao's hot and hard penis. Her eyes were misty as she sobbed
, "Waaah~ Don't you like either?"

"You're not telling the truth, are you? Hmm?" Xia Xiao thrust forward and forcefully poked at that sensitive spot.

Lin Ling's entire body gradually turned pink from his touch, and the lustful fluid from her vagina dripped down their joined points
, wetting the blanket below. Lin Ling moaned softly, "Hmm... Brother Xia Xiao is so bad,
teasing me like this."

"I'm teasing you, tell me, which part of you do I like to touch more?"

Lin Ling's small hands unconsciously tugged at the long fluff on the blanket, "Waaah, I don't know.
Brother 's big cock is going to burst me, and you're still asking me this and that, I... I really don't know,
waaaah~"

Xia Xiao kissed her rounded shoulder, "Alright, alright, I won't ask anymore. Little girl, look at how
pathetic ."

Xia Xiao grabbed Lin Ling's legs and lifted them higher, his cock pressing against that sensitive spot and thrusting even more fiercely.

Lin Ling had long forgotten whether there were people outside. She cried out in a sweet voice, "Good brother, you're too rough! Ah…
"

Xia Xiao smiled and said, "Little darling, you can cry, but don't cry too loudly. How
can other men hear my precious voice, right?"

Lin Ling's entire focus was on the large, throbbing penis that was giving her such intense pleasure. She didn't know how to
answer Xia Xiao, and could only whimper and pant softly. She reached her climax in no time. Her nectar poured
onto Xia Xiao's glans, and her slippery vagina began to rhythmically suck and knead his penis. She
slumped onto the blanket like a puddle of water, letting Xia Xiao manipulate her into various shapes and play with her as he pleased.

The carriage traveled south. Sometimes Lin Ling would recline on the couch and read novels, sometimes Xia Xiao would tempt her to do some
bedroom activities. Besides that, there was nothing else to do. They passed through many towns along the way. Lin Ling
had been to some of these places before, and she would lean against Xia Xiao, telling him what she had done and who she had met,
which restaurants were good, and which places were fun. Xia Xiao promised Lin Ling that when they returned, they would
n't be in such a rush as on their way there; they could spend a few more days exploring places they liked before heading back.

The weather was still very cold at the end of January, and some towns were still experiencing snowfall. Every night when they rested at an inn,
Xia Xiao would personally choose a warm room and instruct the innkeeper to keep the fire burning brightly, afraid that Lin Ling would catch a cold
from the long journey. Every night after they bathed, Xia Xiao would gently and considerately carry her to bed
and massage her. Lin Ling's muscles were aching from being swayed around in the carriage all day, and such massages felt incredibly
soothing . Lin Ling knew Xia Xiao was working hard, so sometimes she would massage his shoulders too. Lin Ling's small hands weren't very strong,
but Xia Xiao was very touched by her gestures. When sleeping, Xia Xiao would tuck Lin Ling in and hold her tightly
in his arms as they fell asleep. Lin Ling listened to the howling winter wind outside, smelled the unique scent of the inn,
and thought back the past few winters when she lay alone in her inn room, unable to warm her bed no matter what she did
. It all felt like a lifetime ago.

On February 10th, Xia Xiao and Lin Ling arrived in Danyang.

That evening, Zhong Haoyu, the leader of the Jiuhua Sect, formally hosted a banquet for them. Xia Xiao, along with Lin Ling and a few trusted subordinates,
quickly settled their luggage at the Jiuhua Sect before heading to the banquet hall. Zhong Haoyu himself
was somewhat different from the image of the martial arts alliance leader Lin Ling had imagined. The sect leader was about forty years old, wearing a simple crimson robe.
He possessed a refined and polite demeanor, appearing mature and charming, without the fatigue often seen in middle-aged men.
Lin Ling carefully observed the Zhong Sect Leader. He was arguably the most handsome middle-aged man she had ever seen.
Zhong Haoyu had a long face, fair skin, sword-like eyebrows, and long, narrow eyes with a restrained, sharp glint in them, exuding an extraordinary aura.
As Lin Ling looked at him, she felt a strange sense of familiarity and warmth towards him, though she couldn't pinpoint the source of this
feeling .

Seeing Lin Ling staring intently at Zhong Haoyu's face without blinking, Xia Xiao gently tugged at her
sleeve.

Lin Ling snapped out of her reverie and turned to look at Xia Xiao.

Xia Xiao gave a low hum and took a sip of wine.

Lin Ling could only lower her head and eat without mentioning it.

Along the way, Xia Xiao had told Lin Ling that he was here to discuss cooperation with the Jiuhua Sect. Lin Ling didn't know what kind of cooperation could exist
between the imperial court and martial arts sects, but she wasn't interested in asking further. That night, she listened to
Xia Xiao and Zhong Haoyu speak politely for a long time, but it seemed they didn't discuss anything substantial. She soon
felt sleepy, only thinking that she could finally go back and get a good night's sleep so she wouldn't have to get up and travel the next morning
.

Chapter 82: Reunion with Cheng Haoran .

Lin Ling slept until late morning the next day, only to find Xia Xiao already gone. After getting dressed
and washing up, a maid quickly brought breakfast to her room, telling her that the Seventh Prince was discussing matters with the sect leader and
wouldn't be back for a while. She was told she could stroll around the garden if she felt bored.

After breakfast, Lin Ling left her room and casually walked along a path into the distance. The architecture of the Jiuhua Sect
was magnificent and stylish, but ultimately couldn't compare to the imperial palace, and its layout wasn't as exquisite as the Seventh Prince's residence. However, Lin
Ling knew that martial artists weren't so concerned with comfort; they pursued continuous improvement in their martial arts skills. Lin Ling arrived at
the gate of a courtyard and heard the sounds of martial arts practice coming from inside. She was about to go in when she was stopped,
told that this was a martial arts training ground and that only members of the sect were allowed inside. Lin Ling had no choice but to

give up. The Jiuhua Sect was built against Jiuhua Mountain. Lin Ling soon reached the foot of the mountain and exited through a
side gate, strolling uphill. Although Danyang City was located in the south, winters were still very cold, and traces of snow could occasionally be seen on the yellow-green
bamboo leaves . The bamboo forest seemed endless. As Lin Ling walked deeper
, she seemed to hear a whooshing sound coming from the air. She stopped and listened carefully, wondering if someone was practicing martial arts in the bamboo forest.
If it was someone from the Jiuhua Sect, why wasn't they practicing in the training hall instead of practicing alone on the back mountain? Could they be
some kind of master?

Lin Ling tiptoed closer and saw a white-clad man
wielding a silver-white weapon with incredible skill, moving with the grace of a dragon. Just

as Lin Ling was about to part the bamboo leaves to get a better look, she saw the man leap up and strike her directly
in the face .

Lin Ling was startled and stumbled back two steps, leaning against a bamboo pole as she reached for
the willow-leaf

throwing knife at her waist. The silver hook, less than three feet in front of her, suddenly trembled and fell to the ground with a clatter.

Cheng Haoran's stunningly beautiful face appeared before Lin Ling. His usually half-open peach blossom eyes were unusually
wide open, and his cherry blossom-like lips trembled slightly as he murmured, "Lin Ling."

Lin Ling's eyes suddenly reddened for some reason. She forced a smile, "Cheng Haoran, what are you
doing here?"

Cheng Haoran's slender fingers touched Lin Ling's fair cheek in disbelief. "Lin Ling, you're not dead?"

Lin Ling nodded. "Yes, I'm not dead."

Cheng Haoran seemed stunned for a moment before pulling Lin Ling tightly into his arms, closing his eyes, and burying
his face in her hair, inhaling her sweet fragrance. Lin Ling was actually standing alive and well before him.
Was he dreaming?

After Lin Ling told Cheng Haoran the whole story, it was already noon.
Cheng Haoran silently took her hand and led her back to Jiuhua Gate. Lin Ling followed him through the back garden, not knowing
where he was taking her.

Lin Ling glanced at Cheng Haoran, who was walking with a cold face. "Haoran, did you join the Nine Hua Sect?"

Cheng Haoran didn't answer her question at all. He said, "Lin Ling, since you faked your death back then, why didn't you
tell me? You just let me think you were dead, dead for four years!"

Lin Ling lowered her head. "Haoran, I'm sorry. I know that what I did back then hurt you all."

"Who are you talking about?"

"Brother Lei, Xiao Mi, and you."

"In your heart, am I just like them?"

Lin Ling looked up at him. "Cheng Haoran, what's wrong with you?"

Cheng Haoran's handsome brows were almost knitted together. He gritted his teeth and grabbed Lin Ling's shoulder. "Lin Ling!
You're so stupid!"

Lin Ling frowned. "Cheng Haoran, you're scolding me again! Hey, don't grab my shoulder, it hurts!" "

Xia Xiao's cold voice rang out from not far away, "Cheng Haoran, let go of my hand!"

Xia Xiao had been talking with Sect Leader Zhong all morning, and Zhong Haoyu was accompanying him to the living room for lunch. He never expected
to witness such a scene here.

Cheng Haoran saw Xia Xiao and actually pulled Lin Ling into his arms, raising his chin and glaring coldly at Xia Xiao.

Xia Xiao's face darkened, and he said sharply, "Ling'er, come here!"

Lin Ling quickly tried to break free from Cheng Haoran's embrace.

Cheng Haoran tightened his grip on Lin Ling's slender waist. "Lin Ling, don't be afraid of him!"

Lin Ling tried to pry Cheng Haoran's hands off her waist, but she couldn't. Seeing that Sect Leader Zhong was standing
behind Xia Xiao watching them, her face flushed even more. She whispered, "Haoran, let go! It's not
what you think. What do you look like holding me like this? Let go, or I'll get angry!"

The two remained locked in this stalemate for a few seconds. Finally, Cheng Haoran released Lin Ling's waist, but still held her
hands tightly, not allowing her to leave. He looked at Lin Ling and said, "Ling'er, as long as you say you don't want to be with that bastard,
I won't let him touch you again. I wasn't capable of protecting you before, but it's different now. I'll risk my life
to I, Cheng Haoran, mean what I say!"

Upon hearing Cheng Haoran's words, Lin Ling subconsciously turned to look at Xia Xiao. She saw Xia Xiao with his lips tightly pressed together, watching them
silently a cold and stern gaze.

Lin Ling lowered her head and said, "Haoran, things aren't what you think. Let me go." She tried to
pry Cheng Haoran's hand off, but his fingers gripped her wrist like hot irons. Lin
Ling was both ashamed and anxious, large tears falling onto their hands. She cried, "Cheng Haoran, let go! Please
don't do this!"

Seeing Lin Ling cry, Xia Xiao became even angrier and snapped, "Cheng Haoran, are you deaf? I told you to let go,
didn't you hear me?" He strode forward, trying to snatch Lin Ling from Cheng Haoran's grasp.

Cheng Haoran raised his hand to push Xia Xiao's hand away, his eyes fixed on Lin Ling. "Lin Ling, don't cry. This bastard
only knows how to force and threaten you. I know you've suffered a lot. Now I will protect you, you don't need to be afraid of him."

Cheng Haoran's words struck a nerve with Xia Xiao. Even if he and Lin Ling were very close, ultimately, it was he who forced Lin Ling in the beginning
, he who threatened her to be with him. Xia Xiao, seething with anger,
launched a punch at Cheng Haoran without a word. Cheng Haoran, unfazed, immediately countered. The two, having abandoned Lin Ling, leaped into the open space
in the middle of began to fight.

Xia Xiao, having diligently trained with imperial guards since childhood, possessed a solid foundation and agile techniques, making him a formidable
opponent among his peers. Cheng Haoran, a natural martial arts prodigy, had further improved his skills in the past two years under Zhong Haoyu's careful guidance
. Their attacks were fierce and powerful, each blow devastating.
Lin Ling, frantic, cried out, "Stop fighting! Stop fighting!" but neither paid any attention.

Xia Xiao had witnessed Cheng Haoran's skills before and felt that his current level
was vastly different , his techniques exquisite and difficult to defend against—likely the superior skills of the Nine Hua Sect. The two fought
for a while, but Xia Xiao couldn't gain any advantage. However, he refused to show weakness in front of Lin Ling,
and his attacks became increasingly fierce.

Finally, Xia Xiao struck Cheng Haoran's shoulder with a palm strike, while Cheng Haoran simultaneously landed a solid punch
on Xia Xiao's chest. Seeing this, Zhong Haoyu immediately leaped between the two, channeling his inner strength into both palms, pushing them both
back half a step. He then said to Cheng Haoran in a deep voice, "Haoran, the Seventh Prince is a distinguished guest of our Nine Hua Sect. It's fine for
you to spar, but don't be so rude."

Cheng Haoran clutched his shoulder, looking at Xia Xiao without speaking.

Xia Xiao, however, felt the blow to his chest. He used all his strength to suppress the surging blood in his chest, straightened his back
, clenched his fist, and stood still, also looking at Cheng Haoran without saying a word.

Lin Ling ran between the two, looking at Xia Xiao and then at Cheng Haoran, taking a step but not moving, ultimately
remaining silent.

Seeing that Lin Ling wouldn't come to him, Xia Xiao was so angry that his chest ached so much he could hardly breathe. He walked over
fiercely grabbed Lin Ling's hand, and was about to leave.

Cheng Haoran said, "Xia Xiao, if you want to leave, then leave. Don't take Lin Ling with you!" Cheng Haoran said, and was about to go over, but
Zhong Haoyu held his shoulder to stop him from moving.

Xia Xiao glared at Lin Ling fiercely, as if he wanted to devour
her

. "Lin Ling, you tell me yourself, do you want to go with him or come with me!" Lin Ling looked up at Xia Xiao with red eyes, and actually tried to break free from his hand.

Xia Xiao was furious. He tightly gripped Lin Ling's small hand and pulled her towards their residence.

Cheng Haoran was unwilling to let Xia Xiao leave with Lin Ling like that, but Zhong Haoyu blocked him from doing so.

Zhong Haoyu said in a low voice, "Haoran, what good will it do you to chase after her like this? It will only make things more
difficult for that girl."

Xia Xiao took large strides, and Cheng Haoran watched Lin Ling's retreating figure as she reluctantly followed him into the distance. His face
darkened, and he said in a deep voice, "Xia Xiao! Lin Ling isn't yours. Even if you force her to stay, she won't be yours in the end!"

Xia Xiao dragged Lin Ling back to their residence. He slammed the door shut, released Lin Ling's hand, sat down at the table, took a sip of
tea, frowned, and patted his chest without saying a word.

Lin Ling walked to the table and, after a moment of silence, asked, "Does your chest still hurt?"

Xia Xiao slammed his teacup down on the table and said coldly, "Now you remember me!"

Lin Ling frowned. "Didn't you slap Cheng Haoran on the shoulder too? You're the one who suffered! Who told you
to fight him?"

Xia Xiao retorted angrily, "I overestimated myself, and I deserved to suffer. If you're worried about him, go see him.
Why did you come back with me?!"

Chapter 83 The Licentious Rabbit

Two men fighting over a woman—it might sound prestigious, but it only
makes people feel awkward. Lin Ling was already angry, and her tone became even more aggressive. She said, "
So what if I'm worried about Cheng Haoran? He's my friend, and of course I'll go check on his injuries later. You don't need to tell me that!"

Xia Xiao was even more furious upon hearing this. "What kind of friends are you? Hugging and pulling each other in broad daylight,
Lin Ling, do you think I'm dead?!"

Lin Ling also said angrily, "Xia Xiao, are you even being reasonable?! Cheng Haoran and I have known each other since we were little. He was just
standing up for me, how could he..." "Wrong? You're the high and mighty Seventh Prince, used to being arrogant.
Do you think we commoners, like ants, should just do whatever you say, and
that any slight disobedience is a capital offense?"

Xia Xiao stared intently at her. "Lin Ling, you know perfectly well what Cheng Haoran thinks of you. Don't
treat me like a fool!"

Lin Ling was speechless, choked by Xia Xiao's words. She really couldn't bring herself to retort
with a straight face .

From childhood to adulthood, Cheng Haoran had always been sarcastic and never kind to her. He had even thrown her into a lake because she said he looked like
a girl so she didn't think much of it,
since Lin Ling's mind was entirely focused on Li Yiyang back then. It wasn't until the Emperor decreed that she marry Xia Xiao that
she realized Cheng Haoran was truly good to her, even trying to find a way to help her in that situation. For the past three years, when Lin
Ling occasionally thought of Cheng Haoran while she was away, she felt nostalgic for those noisy days.
Cheng Haoran was different from Li Yiyang in her eyes, but also different from Jiang Lei. Jiang Lei truly cared for her like an older brother,
but Cheng Haoran, besides his seemingly sharp tongue but actually tender affection, seemed to have something else,
something . As for what that was, she never thought about it again; at that time, she thought they
would probably never see each other again in this lifetime. Only today did she begin to understand why Cheng Haoran had held her so tightly in the bamboo forest, just like when Xia Xiao
first discovered she wasn't dead—he had held her so tightly she felt like her bones were about to break; and why he had said those things in front of Xia Xiao.
Lin Ling wasn't a child anymore; she couldn't possibly be completely oblivious.

Xia Xiao sneered, "Why aren't you saying anything?! Lin Ling, I really underestimated you. You seem so
stupid clueless, but when it comes to playing the victim and seducing people, you're a master. Having Li Yiyang harassing
you wasn't enough; now you have Cheng Haoran so devoted to you. Lin Ling, can't you live without seducing men
?"

Lin Ling retorted angrily, "Xia Xiao, even a rabbit will bite when cornered! Don't push your luck!"

Xia Xiao snorted, "Are you a rabbit? I've never seen such a wanton rabbit! Oh, right,
you're a rabbit who's left the monastic life, so naturally you're restless."

Lin Ling, who was initially furious, suddenly found Xia Xiao's nonsensical words
quite amusing. Although she forced a smile, her inner strength vanished, and she could only mutter, "Xia
Xiao, stop talking nonsense. Cheng Haoran and I are really just friends. Believe it or not, but you're not allowed to cause
him any trouble."

Xia Xiao paused for a moment before speaking, "Lin Ling, is being with me really just out of necessity?"

Lin Ling bit her lip and whispered, "No."

"If not, why didn't you just tell that guy surnamed Cheng that you like me, that you want to
be , and that you don't need him to save you? Why did you cry in front of him?"

Lin Ling couldn't answer and could only lower her head in silence.

"What does it mean if you don't speak? You always cling to me and act all cute, saying you love being with me. But why don't you say you love me in
front of ? Instead, you cry like a pitiful little thing, acting all wronged.
Tell me, aren't you trying to seduce men?"

Lin Ling raised her head, her tone somewhat agitated. "Xia Xiao, don't you have a sense of shame? In
the palace you forced me to be with you, and after we left, you forced me to marry you. You humiliated me like that in front of Li Yiyang,
and then had your men beat him severely. You've done so many outrageous things, how can I possibly tell
Cheng Haoran that I love him so much and want to be with him? I myself feel that's despicable. I can't say those words,
and I don't think I should!"

Xia Xiao clenched his fists and glared at Lin Ling. "Fine! Fine! Lin Ling, you bring
up . Anyway, these things are already ingrained in your heart, you can't erase them, you can't forget them. Since Cheng Haoran said
he's different now and capable of protecting you, why don't you just throw yourself into his arms and let him protect you?
Why bother coming back with me?!"

Lin Ling turned her head away and said coldly, "I don't want to hurt him. Who do you think you are, Xia Xiao? Who would dare to take
something ?"

Xia Xiao looked at her, his tone unconsciously becoming serious. "Lin Ling, if one day Cheng Haoran really
can take you away and I'm powerless to stop him, will you just leave with him without looking back?"

Lin Ling's heart skipped a beat, and she looked at Xia Xiao, speechless.

Xia Xiao couldn't bear to look into Lin Ling's clear eyes anymore, because they clearly showed hesitation.
He poured himself a cup of tea, tilted his head back and drank it, then raised his arm from the table to support his forehead, and said nothing more.

Lin Ling looked at Xia Xiao's slightly lowered profile, her heart filled with turmoil. Ever since she and Xia Xiao reconciled...
The two tacitly avoided certain topics, never discussing them. They had gotten along so well these past few months,
but now, whenever these issues were brought up, the situation remained unchanged. She had always thought
she could only stay by Xia Xiao's side, but if Cheng Haoran really had the ability to take her away, should she leave Xia
Xiao? Lin Ling had never considered this question before, and now that Xia Xiao had suddenly asked it, she had no answer.

Lin Ling stood up from her chair and said softly, "Xia Xiao, let's not argue like this. I'll go see Cheng Haoran,
I'll... talk to him and make things clear."

Xia Xiao didn't look up, and said calmly, "What if I tell you not to go?"

Lin Ling said coldly, "Xia Xiao, if you don't let me go, I'll be very unhappy, I won't want to talk to you,
and then we'll argue. Do you want that?"

Xia Xiao didn't answer, and Lin Ling turned and walked out of the room.

Lin Ling asked several maids she met on the road where Cheng Haoran lived, but they all shook their heads, not knowing. It turned out that
Cheng Haoran was used to wandering around and rarely stayed at the Jiuhua Sect. The servants at the Jiuhua Sect only knew him as
the young master of the Zhong family and had no idea that his real name was Cheng Haoran. Lin Ling could certainly ask Sect Master Zhong where Cheng Haoran was,
but she felt that the earlier scene had been too embarrassing, and how could she possibly go to see Sect Master Zhong now?

The weather had been fine in the morning, but now it had turned gloomy, and she wondered if it would snow later. Lin Ling
thought for a moment and decided to go for a walk. She didn't want to go back now. Xia Xiao's domineering manner made her angry, but his
slightly lowered profile made her sad. Her mind was in turmoil, and she should think things through alone.

In the afternoon, snowflakes began to fall sporadically, and by evening the snow had become heavier, and it quickly grew dark
.

When it was time for dinner, Lin Ling still hadn't returned.

Xia Xiao's face grew darker and darker with the passing of time. What was so interesting about that Cheng Haoran? He had only slashed
her shoulder; could his arm be crippled? The punch to his chest still throbbed, and his
woman had gone to see another man and hadn't returned yet. Lin Ling was now completely emboldened,
wanting nothing more than to trample him underfoot.

Outside, snowflakes danced in the twilight. Xia Xiao got up to go find Lin Ling, but saw someone
open the courtyard gate and walk in. Xia Xiao thought it was Lin Ling returning, but upon closer inspection, it was Cheng Haoran.

Cheng Haoran crossed the courtyard and entered the house, taking off his cloak, dusting off the snow, and placing it on the back of a chair.

Xia Xiao found Cheng Haoran irritating. A man more handsome than a woman, always with
such an arrogant expression—what was he so proud of?

Xia Xiao coldly asked, "What are you doing here?"

Cheng Haoran looked at him. "Xia Xiao, are you here to cooperate with the Jiuhua Sect?"

"Yes."

"Then do you know that the Second Prince, Xia Ying, has already been discussing cooperation with my father?"

Xia Xiao frowned. "Your father?"

"Yes, my biological father is Zhong Haoyu, the leader of the Jiuhua Sect."

Xia Xiao remained silent for a while before speaking. "What are you trying to say?"

"Release Lin Ling, and I'll find a way to achieve your cooperation with the Jiuhua Sect."

Xia Xiao said decisively. "Impossible."

"Why are you answering so quickly? Is the throne more important to you, or a woman? If Lin Ling leaves,
countless women will be willing to be with you; if you lose to the Second Prince, you might even lose your life. I
think you'd better think carefully before answering me."

"I'll say it again, impossible."

Cheng Haoran snorted coldly. "Then I'll put it another way: if you don't release Lin Ling, don't even think about
cooperating ."

Xia Xiao said arrogantly, "Cheng Haoran, listen carefully, I will never release Lin Ling in this lifetime, no matter
who offers it or what conditions!"

"So you're planning to hand over this cooperation to the Second Prince? Xia Xiao, you should know that this is equivalent to
making another formidable enemy."

Xia Xiao replied in a deep voice, "Sect Master Zhong chooses his partners based on which side offers more benefits and has a
greater chance of winning. If he listened to everything you said just because you're his son, I don't think he would be in his current
position."

Cheng Haoran smiled slightly, "Alright, Xia Xiao, then let's see who has the better skills." After he finished speaking, he picked up his cloak
and was about to leave the room.

Xia Xiao called out from behind him, "Stop! Why didn't you bring Lin Ling with you? She's my
woman . How long do you plan to keep her with you?"

Cheng Haoran turned around. "Lin Ling didn't go to my place."

"She came to see you this afternoon."

"No."

Xia Xiao didn't speak for a moment. He looked at Cheng Haoran with a gloomy expression. "If you dare to hide Lin Ling, I
'll dare to raid your Jiuhua Sect!"

Cheng Haoran frowned. "Lin Ling didn't come to see me. If I really took her away, I have nothing to hide."

Chapter 84 Snowy Night

As night fell, the snow fell even more heavily, and there wasn't a single pedestrian on the street. Xia Xiao had already sent out
all men to look for Lin Ling, and Cheng Haoran had also ordered the members of the Jiuhua Sect to search all over Danyang City, but
so far there were still no results. As it got later and later, Xia Xiao couldn't bear it any longer and went out to search himself. He stood on
the intricate streets of Danyang City, anxious and worried. Where had Lin Ling gone? Even if she was arguing with him
, she shouldn't still be here. Something must have happened to her… Xia Xiao now wished that Cheng Haoran had hidden Lin Ling away,
at least that would guarantee her safety. Three or four hours had passed since the afternoon, anything
could have happened, and Xia Xiao really didn't dare to think about the worst possibilities.

Suddenly, Xia Xiao heard someone call out "Seventh Prince" not far away. He turned around and saw a
man wearing a bamboo hat walking towards him from the street corner.

Xia Xiao said in a deep voice, "Who are you?"

"Seventh Prince, the Second Prince requests your presence for a talk."

Xia Xiao's expression changed. "Is Lin Ling in Xia Ying's hands?"

"Seventh Prince, you'll know once you come with me."

Xia Xiao stared at the man's face hidden under the bamboo hat. "Have you done anything to Lin Ling?"

The man said calmly, "Seventh Prince, I'm only responsible for taking you there; I don't know anything else."

Xia Xiao followed the man all the way to the foot of Mount Jiuhua, and then walked up the mountain path. Xia Xiao didn't know
why Xia Ying had taken Lin Ling to the mountain, nor did he know if Xia Ying had done anything to Lin Ling. He came secretly.
The fact that he was going to Danyang to meet Zhong Haoyu was unknown to anyone except the Crown Prince. Was there a spy among his own men, or
was it the Crown Prince …? But Xia Xiao didn't have time to think about that now; he just wanted to see Lin Ling as soon as possible. The mountain path
was extremely difficult to traverse in the snow, but Xia Xiao still walked very fast with long strides. Fortunately, the man who had led him up the mountain was also a martial arts expert, and he
could barely keep up with Xia Xiao's pace.

After walking for nearly half an hour, they finally saw a campfire and several figures in the distance. Xia
Xiao hurried over and saw Xia Ying standing with his hands behind his back under a makeshift tent, looking at him. The flickering
firelight made his usually gloomy face appear even more eerie. Behind Xia Ying stood four or five other people, their
hands silently resting on the hilts of their knives or the sheaths of their swords.

Xia Xiao stood across the campfire opposite Xia Ying and asked, "Xia Ying, where is Lin Ling?"

Xia Ying replied calmly, "Seventh Brother, we haven't officially met for months.
I've missed you terribly!"

Xia Xiao suppressed his anger and said, "Where is Lin Ling?"

A cold smile curled at the corner of Xia Ying's lips. "I just had a go at that woman and found her nothing special. I
really don't know what you see in her."

Intense anger caused Xia Xiao's dark pupils to shrink uncontrollably. He said each word
viciously , "Xia Ying, whatever you want, let me see Lin Ling first."

Xia Ying looked at Xia Xiao for a few seconds, then nodded to the person beside him. The person immediately dragged
a burlap sack from behind Xia Ying, untied the rope, and released Lin Ling from the sack. Lin Ling's hands were tied behind her back,
a rag was stuffed in her mouth, her hair was disheveled and covered her small face, and her large eyes
showed fear like those of a frightened animal.

The man quickly untied Lin Ling's ropes and returned to his position.

Xia Xiao looked Lin Ling up and down, anxiously asking, "Ling'er, how...are you?"

Lin Ling's arms were numb from being tied up. She stiffly pulled the rag out of her mouth, spitting out
the , foul-smelling rag, and gasped, "Xia Xiao, I...I'm fine. They've been keeping me in
a sack the whole time. Nothing happened. Don't listen to Xia Ying's nonsense."

Seeing that Lin Ling's clothes were neat and undamaged despite being somewhat dirty, Xia Xiao breathed a
sigh of relief and whispered reassuringly, "Ling'er, don't be afraid, I'll save you."

Lin Ling nodded. After being knocked unconscious that afternoon, she had been kept in a sack. She was truly
terrified , and hearing Xia Ying's voice only made her blood run cold. But now, although she
was still in Xia Ying's hands, seeing Xia Xiao instantly calmed her down.

With a clang, Xia Ying drew his longsword from its sheath. He used the tip to lift Lin Ling's chin and
said slowly, "Miss Lin, it's been three or four years since we last met. You haven't changed much."

Lin Ling felt afraid looking into Xia Ying's cold, snake-like light gray eyes. Just as she was about to turn her head away,
the sharp tip of the sword drew a faint line of blood on her chin. Lin Ling stared at the sword, too afraid to move.

Xia Ying slightly moved the blade away and chuckled, "I wanted to return you to my seventh brother intact
to show my sincerity. How could you be so careless? Look, you're bleeding."

Xia Xiao, seeing Lin Ling's frightened expression, involuntarily took a step forward.

Xia Ying immediately brandished her sword at Xia Xiao, "Seventh Brother, among us brothers, you have the best martial arts skills. I
'm not comfortable with you standing so close. You'd better take two steps back."

Xia Xiao had no choice but to take two steps back. He looked at Xia Ying with a cold expression, "What exactly do you want?"

Xia Ying snorted, "For so many years, I've never understood why Father Emperor liked you so much. Is it just
because of your vixen mother? She's been dead for so many years, yet our Father Emperor is still so devoted! But it's
ironic that you, Seventh Brother, ultimately fell for a woman. I wonder what Father Emperor will think if he finds out in the future?"

Xia Xiao remained silent.

Xia Ying didn't need his answer. He continued slowly, "You asked me what I want, right? It's
simple , your life for hers."

Lin Ling was stunned. She knew Xia Ying had captured her to threaten Xia Xiao into agreeing to some conditions, but
she hadn't expected Xia Ying to directly ask for Xia Xiao's life. She said incredulously, "Xia Ying, are you crazy?!
Xia Xiao is a prince just like you. How are you going to explain if you kill him and go back?"

Xia Ying sneered, "It would be difficult to explain if I killed him and went back, but if I don't kill him, my capable
seventh brother is allied with the Crown Prince and cooperating with the Nine Hua Sect. If things continue like this, I'm afraid I'll die at his
hands sooner or later. Am I right, seventh brother?"

Xia Xiao said, "Even if you want my life, how do I know you'll let Lin Ling go after you kill me?"

"She's just a woman. Why should I make things difficult for her now that you're dead?"

Xia Xiao said coldly. "Xia Ying, if I'm not mistaken, after you kill me,
the men I brought to Danyang will probably all die too. How could you possibly let Lin Ling go? You'll definitely
kill everyone who knows about this. Even if Father suspects you then, at least there won't be any concrete evidence."

Xia Ying laughed loudly. "Seventh brother, seventh brother, you're so smart, why did you follow my men up the mountain?
Now that you're here, do you really think you can go back alive?"

"I'm here to negotiate, of course. Give Lin Ling back to me, and I'll abandon this cooperation with the Nine Hua Sect,"

Xia Ying sneered. "Why should I believe you? If I let you go back alive today, you'll only become
more hostile towards me. Xia Xiao, I bet you can't bear to part with this woman! If you die, I'll let her go; if you don't believe me, I
'll kill her right now."

Xia Ying's sharp sword tip pressed against Lin Ling's neck again, moving it gently. He clicked his tongue and said, "
Such a white neck, with just a little force, her blood will gush out like a spring. I remember her
blood, it was a beautiful red."

Lin Ling forced herself to remain calm and said loudly, "Xia Xiao, go! Even if you die, this pervert won't
let me go. Go quickly, so you can avenge me in the future!"

Xia Ying squatted down and looked at Lin Ling, who closed her eyes, refusing to meet his gaze.

Suddenly, Xia Ying slapped Lin Ling hard, sending her sprawling to the ground. Lin Ling felt dizzy and
her whole face went numb. She struggled to sit up, covering her face to refuse to shed tears.

Xia Ying muttered "bitch" under his breath, grabbed Lin Ling's long hair, and pulled her to her feet. He brushed the tears from Lin Ling's face .
Her disheveled hair revealed her mud-covered, half-swollen face. He leaned close and breathed his cold breath behind Lin Ling's ear,
whispering, "Look at how frail you are. I'm afraid you'll die after a few rounds of torture. That
wouldn't be satisfying."

Xia Xiao retorted angrily, "Xia Ying, that's enough! You want my life? Fine, I'll give it to you. What kind of
skill !"

Xia Ying smiled sinisterly. "Xia Xiao, oh Xia Xiao, I really didn't expect that even a lone wolf couldn't kill you, but
today you're going to die for this woman."

Lin Ling cried anxiously, "Xia Xiao, please don't fall for his trick. Even if you die, he won't let me go. Do
n't be so foolish, okay?"

Xia Xiao looked at Xia Ying and said, "I have only one request. Now, have your men summon
Cheng Haoran . After I die, I want Cheng Haoran to take Lin Ling away from here."

Xia Ying's expression seemed to change slightly when she heard Cheng Haoran's name. Xia Xiao's mind raced, calculating
all the possibilities. He paused, waiting for Xia Ying to ask him.

Sure enough, Xia Ying immediately asked, "How do you know Cheng Haoran?"

"He's the son of the Nine Hua Sect's Sect Master Zhong. You know him too?"

Xia Ying emphasized. "I'm asking how you know him?"

Xia Xiao thought for a moment and said, "Cheng Haoran and Lin Ling are childhood sweethearts. He's always liked Lin Ling. If you
kill Lin Ling today, you can forget about cooperating with the Nine Hua Sect. I'll only feel at ease handing Lin Ling
over stay with him in the Nine Hua Sect, and you won't have to worry about her having any future entanglements with the royal family."

Xia Ying grabbed Lin Ling's neck, her face darkening. "You're the woman Cheng Haoran has always liked?
Who are you to think he's always liked you?"

Lin Ling was almost suffocating from his grip and couldn't speak.

Xia Xiao frowned. "Xia Ying, let go!"

Xia Ying acted as if she hadn't heard him and continued to viciously choke Lin Ling's neck. Lin Ling's face turned pale from being choked, and
she desperately grabbed Xia Ying's arms with both hands.

Xia Xiao said urgently, "Xia Ying, are you trying to strangle her?"

Xia Ying slowly released Lin Ling's neck, and Lin Ling gasped for breath, her hands covering her neck where the bruises from the grabs were
visible .

Xia Xiao looked at Lin Ling, who was kneeling on the ground panting, and gritted his teeth, saying, "Xia Ying, call Cheng Haoran
over . As long as you can guarantee Lin Ling's safety, I'll give you my life."

Xia Ying stared at Lin Ling and said coldly, "I won't agree to your conditions. I won't call Cheng Haoran." "

Why?"

"There's no why. Don't try to negotiate with me. Xia Xiao, tonight it's either you or her who dies. You
choose ."

Xia Xiao looked at Xia Ying without speaking.

Xia Ying then swung her sword directly at Lin Ling's shoulder.

Xia Xiao felt his heart stop for a moment. He shouted sharply, "Stop! Xia Ying, I'll die right now!
Lin Ling is just a woman who poses no threat. She doesn't even like me. After I die, she won't cause you
any trouble. I hope you can keep your promise and let her go!"

Xia Ying said coldly, "Fine, I'll let her go."

Although Xia Xiao knew he couldn't trust Xia Ying's words at all, and that even if he committed suicide, Lin Ling probably wouldn't escape death,
how could he watch Lin Ling get hurt or even die in front of him? That was impossible! He had once watched Lin Ling being
stabbed in the chest and was powerless to help. That heart-wrenching pain was something he couldn't bear a second time.

Xia Xiao drew his long sword from his waist and held it to his heart.

Lin Ling, tears streaming down her face, shook her head desperately, pleading, "Xia Xiao! No! If you dare to commit suicide, I will never love you in my next
life , and I will hate you forever! I beg you, please don't do this, Xia Xiao, you…
think about how this pervert will treat me after you die, maybe… a hundred times worse than death. I beg you,
please don't do this."

Xia Xiao looked at Lin Ling, his eyes filled with intense pain.

Lin Ling knelt on the ground, wiping away her tears as she spoke. Suddenly, she grabbed Xia Ying's longsword,
which was hanging beside her, and slashed at her neck. Xia

Ying reacted swiftly, pulling the sword away and kicking Lin Ling to the ground.

Xia Ying's sword was exceptionally sharp, and Lin Ling's grip had been so tight that two deep, bone-revealing cuts were immediately made on her palms and
fingertips . The saying goes, "The ten fingers are connected to the heart," and Lin Ling was in so much
pain that she curled up on the ground, trembling all over. Her hands were half-closed in agony, and warm, bright red blood gushed from her palms onto the ground,
quickly staining a small patch of snow.

Chapter 85 Torture

The saying goes, "The ten fingers are connected to the heart," and Lin Ling was in so much pain that she curled up on the ground, trembling all over. Her hands were half-closed in agony, and
warm, bright red blood gushed from her palms onto the ground, quickly staining a small patch of snow.

Xia Xiao rushed over, wanting to hug Lin Ling.

The blood-dripping sword tip pressed against Lin Ling's neck. Xia Ying said grimly, "Xia Xiao! If you take another
step , your little beauty will be headless."

Xia Xiao clenched his fists and stood rooted to the spot. He said, word by word, "Xia Ying, if you kill her, I
will curse you to never attain the throne! After I die, you must immediately send her down the mountain!" Xia Xiao
's longsword was once again aimed at his heart, his hand gripping the hilt, ready to plunge it in.

Lin Ling staggered to her feet, trying to stop him.

Xia Ying grabbed Lin Ling's hair and pulled her back, one arm across her neck, pressing her down to prevent her from moving.

Lin Ling cried and struggled, "Xia Xiao! You can't die! If you die, I'll kill myself! How can you just
leave me like this?!"

Xia Xiao looked deeply at Lin Ling and said calmly, "Ling'er, I know you've always loved Li Yiyang.
After I die, you'll be able to fulfill your wish and be with him. If Xia Ying really breaks her promise and refuses to let
you go, don't be afraid. Even if you go to hell, I'll be with you."

Lin Ling cried so hard she couldn't speak. Xia Xiao stood only a few dozen steps away from her, endless snowflakes
falling on him. His face was pale, his expression resolute, and his eyes
shone . Was he really going to die in front of her? What place did this man hold in her heart?
Before this moment, she had been too foolish to see it clearly.

Xia Ying laughed loudly, "Seventh brother, to be honest, I never really believed you would
die for this woman before, but now I believe you really are. However, before you die, what about the debts we brothers have accumulated over the past ten years?"
"Shouldn't we do some calculations first?"

Xia Xiao looked at him, remaining silent.

Xia Ying ordered two of his men to restrain Lin Ling, and said to Xia Xiao in a deep voice, "Throw away the sword in your hand."

Xia Xiao threw the longsword to the ground, and Xia Ying kicked it down the steep hillside. Xia Xiao's
sword rolled a few times down the slope and quickly disappeared into the darkness.

Xia Ying then ordered his men to search Xia Xiao's body. One of them found a short and sharp dagger in Xia Xiao's boot
. Xia Ying weighed the light dagger in his hand and said, "Seventh Brother, your old habits haven't changed." He handed
the dagger to his men, walked up to Xia Xiao, and stood face to face with him.

All around was silent, except for the sound of the cold wind swirling with snow.

Xia Ying punched Xia Xiao hard in the face, speaking in his characteristically cold and slow tone, "Xia Xiao,
you were young back then, you probably don't remember how much your father cherished your vixen-like mother. Because my mother wanted to
deal with her, my father even considered deposing the Empress. Luckily, that woman didn't live long, otherwise we
don't know what our situation would be like now. My mother always told me that that vile concubine also had a son, so if I
didn't amount , that bastard would get everything. I'm my mother's only son, and I must
avenge her for over a decade. Do you know how strict my mother was with me when I was little? Heh, it was all
for you."

Xia Xiao spat out a mouthful of blood, lowered his eyes, and remained silent.

"It's such a pity my mother isn't here now, she can't watch you die, she would feel very regretful,"

Xia Xiao said calmly. "You can take my head to the Empress, fulfilling her long-cherished wish."

Xia Ying punched Xia Xiao in the stomach again, causing him to bend over and gasp for breath.

Xia Ying said viciously, "Xia Xiao, what are you so smug about! You're not afraid of death, are you? I'll just cut your head off
, wouldn't that be too comfortable for you to die! Do you think Father will be heartbroken if he knows you're dead? Even though you never
listen to him, he still loves you the most. Before, he only came to the Hall of Mental Cultivation once a month, but after you came, he came to see you
every day . No matter how well I do, he only wants to pass the throne to you, you prodigal son. Xia Xiao, let me
tell you, the throne is mine! Anyone who opposes me will not have a good end!"

Xia Ying kicked Xia Xiao to the ground and suddenly drew her sword, stabbing it into Xia Xiao's shoulder.

Lin Ling screamed, watching Xia Xiao painfully clutch his shoulder, while Xia Ying cruelly twisted
the sharp tip of the sword that was piercing his shoulder. Bright red blood quickly gushed out, staining Xia Xiao's clothes on his shoulder, and Xia Xiao
's face was contorted with pain.

Lin Ling struggled frantically, but couldn't break free from the two men holding her back. She cried out, "Xia Ying!
You're a madwoman! You pervert! Go ahead and kill me if you dare, or I'll kill you sooner or later!"

Xia Xiao's face was covered in cold sweat, but he still gritted his teeth and said, "Ling'er, don't talk nonsense... You must live well.
Don't look, close your eyes."

Xia Ying clicked his tongue in admiration, "Seventh Brother, you're so affectionate!" He pulled his sword from Xia Xiao's shoulder and
then plunged it deep into Xia Xiao's thigh. Xia Ying slightly pulled back the tip of the sword, then thrust it in even deeper. He watched as
Xia Xiao's blood stained his trousers again, a gleam of excitement in his light gray pupils. His smile
was sinister and terrifying as he listened with relish to the dull thud of the sword cutting through Xia Xiao's flesh. He stirred the
sword tip buried deep within Xia Xiao's leg, speaking slowly and deliberately, "Seventh Brother, it hurts, doesn't it? Do you regret it now
?"

Xia Xiao's body hunched over like a shrimp in pain, one hand twisting the fabric of his leg, his mouth
agape , his mind hazy, yet he remained silent.

Xia Ying drew her sword and kicked Xia Xiao hard in the face. "You bastard, speak!"

Blood streamed from Xia Ying's nose. He slowly covered the wound on his thigh with his uninjured hand,
collapsing onto the snow, covered in blood and gasping for breath.

Lin Ling's arms were firmly held by the two men behind her, and she slumped to the ground,
her eyes wide murmured, "Xia Xiao, how can I ever repay you like this?"

Xia Xiao struggled to lift his head, his face covered in blood, and gave her a comforting smile. He said, "Silly girl, I don't need
you to repay me. I told you to close your eyes, but you never listen."

Xia Ying snorted, "Xia Xiao, you've got guts!" He turned to the men standing in the tent and coldly
ordered, "Beat him, beat him slowly, beat him to death."

Except for one man who continued to restrain Lin Ling, the other four silently walked over and began
punching and kicking .

Xia Xiao, lying on the ground, was surrounded by the four tall and strong men. Lin Ling could only
see him lying on the ground, clutching his head, his body stiffly moving back and forth with their kicks. At first, he
had fallen near the campfire, but now he had been kicked further and further away by the men, leaving a large
muddy bloodstain on the snow.

Lin Ling shook her head and shouted desperately, "Xia Xiao, run! I beg you, run!"

Xia Ying smiled coldly, "Miss Lin, my seventh brother can't even crawl, let alone run."

The four men kicked Xia Xiao silently and viciously, and Lin Ling seemed to vaguely hear
the sound of bones cracking. They were kicking him so hard that, in the dim light of the campfire, Lin Ling could even see that one of their shoes
was stained red with Xia Xiao's blood.

Lin Ling stood up, broke free from the grip behind her, and tried to go over. The man naturally grabbed Lin Ling to prevent her from moving, but
Lin Ling's bloodied hands were incredibly strong, and she pushed the man away and walked towards Xia Xiao.

Xia Ying didn't stop her, coldly looking at her and saying in a gloomy tone, "Miss Lin, let me warn you,
they'll beat you the same way if you go over there. It's not that I'm not letting you go, it's that you're asking for it."

Lin Ling seemed not to hear, walking straight towards Xia Xiao. She pushed aside the people surrounding Xia Xiao, knelt down,
and lifted the blood-covered Xia Xiao onto her lap, softly calling his name.

Xia Xiao didn't react at all; she didn't even know if he was still breathing.

The four people surrounding them didn't move anymore. Lin Ling sobbed softly, tears falling onto Xia Xiao's face,
which was almost unrecognizable.

Xia Ying angrily said, "Who told you to stop?! Keep hitting him!"

The four responded in unison, and immediately someone kicked Xia Xiao hard in the stomach.

Lin Ling quickly bent down and lay on top of Xia Xiao, but she was immediately kicked in the back as well, the pain making her vision blur
and almost unable to breathe.

Suddenly, Lin Ling felt a movement at her waist. Xia Xiao had already drawn a willow-leaf dart from the inside of her belt and, with a start,
opened her eyes, launching it at the four people surrounding them.

The change was incredibly fast; even though the four were all experts, they didn't have time to react. Xia Xiao's dart instantly struck
three of them: one in the chest, one in the shoulder, and one in the throat. All those hit
cried out in . The one who wasn't hit quickly drew his longsword and slashed at Lin Ling's back.

Xia Xiao rolled over, shielding Lin Ling beneath her, taking the blow herself
. She then threw another willow-leaf dart at the man, who could only leap backward to dodge. Xia Xiao, who had deliberately
moved , used her last bit of strength to hold Lin Ling tightly and roll down the steep slope.

Xia Ying rushed over, taking three steps at a time, and slashed fiercely at the two men with her sword, only managing to tear off a
blood- corner of their clothing. Xia Ying screamed and hurled her sword at them; the sword flashed silver and
rolled quickly into the darkness along with the two men.

Lin Ling couldn't see anything clearly; the world spun around her, and something hard kept scraping against her hair and
back . Only Xia Xiao held her tightly in his arms, refusing to let go even in death.

Chapter 86 Escape

The two tumbled down the slope, finally stopping when they crashed into a large tree.

Lin Ling felt as if all her bones were shattered. She struggled to lift her head and asked, "Xia Xiao, how are you?"

Xia Xiao's back hit the tree, the wound on his back tearing open in pain. He groaned but didn't speak.

Lin Ling patted Xia Xiao's face, anxiously calling out, "Xia Xiao! Xia Xiao! Say something!"

Xia Xiao managed to speak with difficulty, "Are you... alright? Did you fall?"

Lin Ling cried, "I'm fine, how are you? Xia Xiao, please don't get hurt."

Xia Xiao gasped for breath, "I'm fine, don't cry. Help me up first."

Lin Ling helped Xia Xiao sit up, and Xia Xiao cried out in pain.

Lin Ling quickly stopped and anxiously asked him what was wrong.

Xia Xiao gasped for breath and said, "When they kicked me just now, it felt like I broke a rib." He gritted his teeth
and leaned against a tree, breathing heavily.

Lin Ling's heart ached, and tears streamed down her face. But she knew this wasn't the time to cry, so she quickly wiped away her tears with
the back of her hand , biting her lip, wondering what to do.

Xia Xiao silently turned her head to survey her surroundings. They had rolled a long way down the slope; looking up,
all she could see was darkness, and looking down, the slope still seemed endless. However, the gradient had eased
considerably , making it manageable to walk down slowly. Because of the snow, there was no moon in the sky, but the snow on the ground
still reflected a faint light. Fortunately, this snow had prevented them from getting injured.

Lin Ling picked up the hem of her dress to wipe the blood from Xia Xiao's face.

Xia Xiao grasped her hand, gently touching the two deep wounds on her palm, and asked softly, "Does it
hurt a lot ?"

Lin Ling shook her head. "I don't hurt. Where do you feel pain?"

Xia Xiao also shook her head.

Lin Ling thought for a moment and then tore off a piece of her dress to bandage the wounds on Xia Xiao's legs.

Xia Xiao grabbed her hand to stop her from tearing it. "Ling'er, listen to me first. It's not safe to stay here. You should leave
now . I'll take care of my injuries myself."

Lin Ling broke free of his hand and ripped off the hem of her dress with a ripping sound. She said, "Xia Xiao, you can't bleed anymore."

Xia Xiao sighed and took the piece of clothing from Lin Ling's hand. "Your hand is injured. Don't move.
I can bandage it myself." Xia Xiao struggled to lift his injured leg and tore the hem of his dress into several strips, binding them tightly
around his thigh.

Lin Ling simply took off her outer garment and tore it into several large pieces. Xia Xiao had no strength left and
couldn't stop . He could only frown and say, "With such heavy snow, how can you manage without an outer garment?"

Lin Ling said, "Stop talking nonsense. Let's finish bandaging quickly and leave here."

Lin Ling quickly bandaged the wounds on Xia Xiao's shoulder and back. Xia Xiao also used strips of cloth to tightly bind the two wounds on her hands
to stop the bleeding.

Lin Ling asked Xia Xiao, "Where should we go now?"

Xia Xiao gently stroked Lin Ling's face and said softly, "Ling'er, be a good girl and go by yourself. I have broken ribs and
injured my leg, so I really can't go with you. Remember not to take the mountain path, just slowly
go down . Don't worry, my wounds are all bandaged, and the place we rolled down is so deep, Xia Ying
won't be able to find me. I won't die. Although there are many mountain paths in Jiuhua Mountain, Xia Ying will definitely have people waiting for
you at various exits at the foot of the mountain, so you must be careful. The back garden of Jiuhua Sect is connected to Jiuhua Mountain. If you can find
it, go straight back to Jiuhua Sect; if you really can't find it, wait until it's broad daylight before going out.
There are many people at the foot of the mountain during the day, so it will be safer. Remember to keep the throwing darts on your waist."

Lin Ling nodded and said, "I've walked that path from the back garden of Jiuhua Sect to the mountain before, and there are people
from Jiuhua Sect guarding the entrance. We will definitely be able to get back."

"That's good, hurry up and go."

"Of course we'll go together."

"I told you I can't walk."

"If you can't walk, I'll carry you."

"Don't talk nonsense."

"How is it nonsense? If I leave you alone, am I even human?"

"Ling'er, don't let your emotions get the better of you. You can't leave with
me .

It's better for you to live than for us both to die." "Xia Xiao, I know that once you've made up your mind, you won't change it, but I also have
things I've decided on. If you won't come with me, then we'll both stay here."

Xia Xiao was helpless, his body too weak to resist, and in the end, he let Lin Ling carry him on her back,
stumbling forward. Xia Xiao was much taller than Lin Ling. His feet dragged on the ground, trying to use some
strength to support himself, but with the slightest effort, a knife-like pain shot through his abdomen. Xia Xiao had no choice
but let Lin Ling use her frail body to support him as they moved forward.

The sky and earth were covered in white snow; Mount Jiuhua seemed boundless. Lin Ling looked around blankly.
"Xia Xiao, which way should we go?"

"Just follow your instincts. I went through so much to rescue you from Xia Ying; God will protect you and help you get back
safely ."

"You have to hold on. Once we get through this, things will be great for us."

"...Okay?"

The snow on the ground piled up thicker and thicker, and Lin Ling's crooked footprints of varying depths stretched far into
the distance . Lin Ling didn't know how long she had been walking; her body was so cold that it was numb, and even her sense of time had become
blurred. She felt the sticky blood flowing from Xia Xiao's shoulder staining her clothes,
and his breath on her ear grew colder and weaker…

Tears blurred Lin Ling's vision, and she tried to speak calmly, "Xia Xiao, say something."

Xia Xiao's voice was very weak. He whispered, "Ling'er, don't be afraid, you can get out of here.
After you get out… you can be with Li Yiyang. I know you still feel
wronged ."

Lin Ling said anxiously, "Xia Xiao, what nonsense are you talking about! Li Yiyang has been married for three years, how could I still
be with him?! You just told Xia Ying that I'm the person Cheng Haoran has always liked. Is
that how you see me? If you die, I'll happily go find someone else, right?"

Xia Xiao sighed, "I hoped Xia Ying would let you off the hook because of Cheng Haoran's status, but it seems to
have the opposite effect. Silly girl, so what if Li Yiyang is married? He likes you, he'll be with you."

"Pah! You think everyone's like you, so shameless and disregarding all manners and morality, grabbing whatever they want regardless of
whether I wouldn't do that. Xia Xiao, you've ruined my life,
you have to take responsibility for me for the rest of your life."

Xia Xiao gave a bitter smile. "I want to, but... this time I probably really can't hold on, I'm
almost bleeding out."

Lin Ling said in a trembling voice, "How can you be bleeding out! How could a big bad guy like you
die so easily?! Xia Xiao, hang in there, we'll be down the mountain soon."

"Put on my coat later, otherwise you'll freeze to death all night."

"No!"

"Don't worry about the past anymore, okay?"

"No! I mind, I'll mind for the rest of my life!"

Xia Xiao said, resting his face against her neck. "You stubborn girl, if you mind, then mind. Turn your face
to the side , let me kiss you again."

Lin Ling stood motionless in the snow, wiping her tears with the back of her hand wrapped in bandages. "Xia Xiao, if you say
that again, let's not leave, let's just die here together."

Xia Xiao struggled to support Lin Ling's shoulders, turning her to face him. He breathed heavily and said, "I
finally managed to rescue you, you can't die." He leaned in and kissed away the tears on Lin Ling's face. "Don't cry
. Without me, your life would probably be much simpler and happier, and that... would be good too."

Lin Ling looked up at his blood-stained face, sobbing uncontrollably, "I just..." "I don't want a simple, happy
life, I just want to be with you. Xia Xiao, I... I love you so much, I'll never
love anyone this deeply again in my life. You were so mean before, you haven't even made it up to me yet, you didn't marry me in a grand wedding sedan chair,
you said you'd set off fireworks with me every New Year, but we only set off fireworks together once, you
said you'd pamper me and treat me well for the rest of your life, where is that rest of your life now? We were supposed to grow old together,
how could you break your promise, Xia Xiao?"

Xia Xiao murmured, "Yes, grow old together..." He gently kissed Lin Ling's lips,
his lips so cold, carrying a heavy taste of blood mixed with Lin Ling's bitter tears, flowing into her mouth.

Xia Xiao's body suddenly slumped, pressing Lin Ling down onto the snow.

Lin Ling frantically cupped Xia Xiao's face, calling his name, his face was blue and purple, a horrible sight,
his eyes seemingly lifeless. Lin Ling trembled as she placed her finger under Xia Xiao's nose, but the wind and snow were so heavy that her
numb fingers couldn't feel anything. She didn't know if Xia Xiao was already dead. Lin Ling
anxiously kissed Xia Xiao's face; his face was icy cold and expressionless, truly like
a dead person.

All the strength seemed to drain from Lin Ling's body in an instant. She collapsed onto the snow, her arms wrapped around Xia Xiao
's neck, her eyes wide open, staring at the dark sky. Countless snowflakes rushed down on her face,
some landing on her eyes, cold and stinging. She really wanted to die like this. She could still
see Xia Xiao's face hidden behind the large snowflakes. What about being together forever?
What about our tender love? What about you loving only me in the whole world? Xia Xiao, if you die, what will I have left?

Lin Ling's heart sank as if into a black hole. The scene was too terrifying to bear; she
couldn't bear to imagine it any longer. She forcefully wiped away her tears, helped Xia Xiao to his feet, and stumbled
forward on her back.

As she walked, she whispered, "Xia Xiao, those memories won't just remain memories. We'll always be
like that, right?"

Xia Xiao didn't respond, clinging to her back.

Lin Ling continued talking to herself, "I think we're almost at the foot of the mountain. You have to hold on..."

"..."

"If you can hold on this time, I'll never argue with you again..."

"..."

Lin Ling carried Xia Xiao forward, dragging him across the snow when she couldn't carry him any longer.
The wounds on her hands had soaked through layers of bandages, but she felt no pain, no fatigue. She
had to reach the bottom of the mountain; Xia Xiao wouldn't die.

As dawn broke, two disciples guarding the back gate of the Jiuhua Sect in a small pavilion at the foot of the mountain
saw a woman covered in blood, half-carrying and half-dragging a man, staggering down the mountain.

They knew that the young sect leader had sent many people to find the woman the Seventh Prince had brought the previous night. One of them rushed
over and examined Lin Ling, asking, "Are you Miss Lin Ling?"

Lin Ling stared at him blankly for a few seconds before suddenly realizing what he was doing and supporting Xia Xiao's body, saying, "Save him!
He's the Seventh Prince! Quick, save him!"

The two quickly helped Xia Xiao to his side. He was covered in blood and his body was ice-cold; he looked like a dead man.
The two exchanged glances, and just as they were about to check Xia Xiao's breathing, they heard a thud beside them
. Lin Ling had collapsed to the ground, unable to hold on any longer.

Chapter 87:

Lin Ling slept restlessly. She had a long and chaotic dream, finally waking up the moment she realized Xia Xiao was dead
. She sat up in bed, covered in sweat, her heart pounding as if it would jump out of her chest.

Cheng Haoran, who had been sitting by her bedside, supported her shoulders and asked, "Lin Ling, how are you?"

Lin Ling turned to look at Cheng Haoran, whose face was filled with worry, and then looked around at her surroundings. It was already dark,
and she was now in the room she and Xia Xiao had shared before.

Lin Ling grabbed Cheng Haoran's arm with her bandaged hand and asked anxiously, "How is Xia Xiao?"

Cheng Haoran looked at Lin Ling but didn't speak.

Lin Ling's eyes instantly reddened, and she said in a trembling voice, "Tell me, what happened to him...
?"

"He's fine, don't worry."

Lin Ling threw back the covers and was about to get out of bed.

Cheng Haoran stopped her, saying, "You should rest now."

Lin Ling pushed Cheng Haoran's arm away, put on her shoes, and headed out.

Cheng Haoran said helplessly, "At least put on your coat first."

Lin Ling stamped her foot and said, "Cheng Haoran, I need to see him now!"

Xia Xiao had been placed in another room in this secluded courtyard. Cheng Haoran draped a cloak over Lin Ling's shoulders and
led her outside.

Lin Ling pushed open the door and immediately saw Xia Xiao. He lay on the bed with his eyes closed,
his body was vaguely visible through thick white bandages. A maid was sitting by the bed, feeding him medicine with a spoon,
while two doctors with medicine boxes sat at the table.

Lin Ling watched as Xia Xiao approached. The bloodstains on his face had been wiped away, but it was still a
frightening bluish-purple color. Some of the medicine the maid was feeding him dripped from the corner of his mouth, which the maid
wiped clean with a handkerchief.

Lin Ling trembled as she reached out and touched Xia Xiao's cheek, choking out, "Thank God, you're not dead."
Before she could finish speaking tears streamed down her face.

The maid stood aside with the medicine bowl. Lin Ling took the bowl from her, intending to feed Xia Xiao the medicine, but
with both her hands bandaged, she couldn't hold the bowl properly.

Cheng Haoran took the bowl from her hands and said, "You can't use your hands yet." He then
handed the bowl back to the maid, indicating she should continue feeding the medicine.

Lin Ling silently took a deep breath and looked at the two doctors at the table. "How is Xia Xiao? Is he
out of danger?"

One of the doctors replied, "The Seventh Prince lost too much blood, but we will do our best to save him."

Lin Ling's heart sank upon hearing this. "When will he wake up?"

"That's hard to say."

"So… he's still in danger, and could die at any moment?"

"Miss, don't worry too much. The Seventh Prince is a lucky person; he will definitely pull through."

Lin Ling bit her lip and gripped Xia Xiao's hand tightly. His hand was still so cold, but she believed Xia Xiao wouldn't die.
They had gone through so much to escape danger; he wouldn't die.

Cheng Haoran pulled her hand away, frowning. "I told you, you can't move your hand right now."

Lin Ling looked at him with teary eyes, her gaze sorrowful and poignant. She said, "Cheng Haoran, I beg you, you
must save Xia Xiao."

Cheng Haoran felt a pang of pain in his heart at her gaze, and could only whisper comforting words, "Don't worry, my father
wouldn't let a prince die in the Jiuhua Gate. These two are the best physicians in Danyang."

Lin Ling turned back to look at Xia Xiao, who lay unconscious on the bed, his teeth clenched tightly,
most of the medicine the maid had fed him spilling out.

Lin Ling told the maid to stop feeding him, and she took a large gulp from the medicine bowl herself. Then she bent down and pried open Xia Xiao
's teeth, feeding him mouthful by mouthful.

Cheng Haoran stared blankly as she fed Xia Xiao the medicine, a dull ache in his heart. Was this still the
Lin Ling who would scrunch up at the mere mention of medicine? The girl who seemed to never grow up had finally
grown up , and he… seemed to have missed his chance again.

Lin Ling refused to leave Xia Xiao's side all night, so Cheng Haoran had another bed brought in. Even then, she wouldn't sleep, insisting on sitting beside Xia Xiao and watching him. When Lin Ling saw the maid changing Xia Xiao's bandages, tears streamed down her
face at the sight of his horrifying wounds . Even when Cheng Haoran changed the bandages on her hands, she still gazed longingly at Xia Xiao. She gently held Xia Xiao's hand with her bandaged hand, whispering many sweet nothings only they understood . Finally, exhausted, she collapsed and fell asleep beside Xia Xiao's bed. Only then did Cheng Haoran come over and carry her to bed to rest. Lin Ling's long eyelashes cast shadows under her eyes, and her furrowed brows made her look utterly helpless and pitiful. Cheng Haoran touched her thin, haggard face, his heart aching. Three days later, Xia Xiao still lay quietly in bed. The room was empty and utterly silent. Lin Ling gently traced the shape , silently repeating in her heart, "Xia Xiao, wake up, wake up quickly!" Suddenly, she felt a slight movement beneath his eyelids. Lin Ling hurriedly lifted her fingers, and then she thought she saw Xia Xiao's eyelashes flutter slightly. Lin Ling's eyes widened in disbelief, her breath almost stopping from her throat with tension. Time seemed to freeze. It felt as if hundreds of years had passed before Xia Xiao slowly opened his eyes. The bright shone on his handsome face. Lin Ling called out Xia Xiao's name in a trembling voice. His deep black eyes looked at her tenderly, making her feel so happy she lost track of time. Lin Ling burst into tears, burying her face in Xia Xiao's arms and hugging his neck. Heaven knows how terrified she had been during that time. The tension in her mind had been tightening, almost snapping. She couldn't bear to think about what would happen ; every time she fell asleep, she dreamt he was dead. Xia Xiao had no strength left, and his head throbbed. He struggled to lift his arm, his movements stiff as he stroked Lin Ling's hair, his voice hoarse. "Silly girl, I'm awake. Why are you still crying?" Lin Ling wiped her tears of anxiety and fear onto his clothes, saying pitifully, "Xia Xiao, why did it take you so long to wake up? I thought you were going to die." Xia Xiao smiled weakly. "I won't die. I promised to be with you forever, and I can't go back on my word ." Lin Ling hugged Xia Xiao even tighter. "Baby…don't hug me anymore, it hurts." Lin Ling then remembered that Xia Xiao had a broken rib and quickly got off him. She looked at Xia Xiao, wiped away her tears, and smiled through her sobs, leaning in to kiss his thin lips. Xia Xiao closed his eyes, about to deepen the kiss, when Lin Ling abruptly pulled back and stood up, saying, "I'll go call the doctor."

"Come here, husband." With that, she dashed away like a gust of wind.

Xia Xiao looked up and watched Lin Ling's figure disappear into the distance, then lay back down on the bed. His whole body was numb, as
if it weren't his own, but it was good to be alive.

When Xia Xiao woke up, he was finally out of danger, but he was severely injured and could only lie motionless
in bed, drinking medicine every day, and his wounds were healing very slowly. His leg injury was particularly troublesome; fortunately, Zhong Haoyu
had taken out the Black Jade Bone-Mending Ointment, a sacred healing medicine from the Nine Hua Sect, otherwise his leg would most likely have been crippled.

He thanked Zhong Haoyu for taking care of him and Lin Ling, and after feeling a little better, he invited Sect Master Zhong for
another long talk. Zhong Haoyu finally accepted Xia Xiao's request for cooperation. On the one hand, Xia Xiao's conditions were good
enough , and in the long run, Xia Xiao and the Crown Prince had a better chance than the Second Prince; on the other hand, Zhong Haoyu also
believed that since Xia Ying could do such a thing, he was a ruthless person who would stop at nothing, and even if he became emperor in the future,
it would be difficult to work with him.

After finalizing the cooperation with Sect Leader Zhong, Xia Xiao finally felt relieved and could focus on recovering. Lin
Ling had become exceptionally obedient, staying by his side at all times to take meticulous care of him. He naturally
felt , so she would sit by his bedside, chatting with him and reading to him. Cheng Haoran would come over every day with a sour face to change his bandages, and even
told him when Lin Ling wasn't around that if he made Lin Ling suffer, he would take her away sooner or later. Xia Xiao
snorted and said, "You'd better watch out for Xia Ying's designs on you." Cheng Haoran's handsome face darkened, and with a rip, he
tore the gauze off Xia Xiao's body. Xia Xiao cried out in pain, which was heard by Lin Ling, who was walking in from the courtyard.
She rushed into the room, scolding Cheng Haoran with concern, "Cheng Haoran, are you even a doctor?!
Is this how you remove bandages? Do you have any medical ethics?! Get off me, get off me, I'll do it myself." Xia Xiao lay on
the bed , and Lin Ling carefully applied medicine to the long wound on his back. While applying the medicine
, Lin Ling asked him if it hurt. Xia Xiao grimaced and said, "Yes, it hurts so much!" Lin Ling quickly said, "Okay, I'll be gentler." She deftly
applied the medicine to his wound while gently blowing on it. Xia Xiao glanced triumphantly at Cheng Haoran,
who was so frustrated he felt like he was about to burst. He stood up and stormed off. Lin Ling ignored him, still asking
Xia Xiao if it hurt like a child.

By mid-March, Xia Xiao had been recuperating at the Jiuhua Sect for a full month, and the weather
was gradually warming up. Xia Xiao's broken ribs slowly healed, and he was finally able to get out of bed and walk
with the help of crutches. Xia Xiao then told Lin Ling that he wanted to return to the capital. Lin Ling said that the long journey would be bad for his injuries, and he should wait
until he was fully recovered before leaving. Xia Xiao said that there were still many things waiting for him to handle in the capital,
and Besides, this was someone else's place, and it would be more comfortable to stay at home. Lin Ling found his reasoning reasonable
and agreed .

The night before his departure, Lin Ling and Cheng Haoran took a walk in the back garden. Although the weather was still a bit cool,
many pink peach blossoms had already sprouted from the branches.

Lin Ling pulled over a branch and looked at it, saying, "So many flower buds have formed in just two days. You have so many peach trees
in it's a bit like Peach Blossom Valley in our capital."

Cheng Haoran nodded, "If you wait another seven or eight days, all these peach blossoms will be in full bloom
. Why are you leaving in such a hurry?"

"Xia Xiao has a lot of things to do back in the capital,"

Cheng Haoran said without replying.

"Haoran, when are you going back to the capital? Uncle Cheng must miss you terribly."

"I'll probably go back in a while." Cheng Haoran paused, then feigned nonchalance and said, "Lin Ling, you're
going back with Xia Xiao this time, so you plan to be with him from now on, right?"

Lin Ling answered without hesitation, "Yes."

"You really like him?"

"Yes."

"Not just because you were moved by him saving you?"

"Haoran, I really want to be with him."

"Lin Ling, he's a prince. That status has both advantages and disadvantages. Maybe one day you'll have a hard time and
won't like that kind of life."

"Maybe, but even then, I don't want to leave him. Actually, you can find ways to overcome hardships.
Don't always think the worst."

Cheng Haoran didn't reply.

Lin Ling looked at him and said, "Cheng Haoran, we've been best friends since we were little, and we'll always
be best friends, right?"

Cheng Haoran lowered his head and said indifferently, "Who said I'm best friends with you? You're just Li Yiyang's little tagalong."

Lin Ling laughed and playfully hit him, "You've been bullying me since we were kids, and you still have the nerve to bring that up."

The two walked forward while talking, and Cheng Haoran didn't show his disappointment or reluctance. Because it
was meaningless. Lin Ling was a stubborn girl; once she had someone in her heart, she
couldn't see anyone else.

Chapter 88 No.

The two got into a carriage and traveled from Danyang to the capital. When they came, Xia Xiao promised Lin Ling that they would travel
slowly on the way back and spend two days sightseeing at places they liked. The return journey was indeed much slower than the way there,
but that was because Lin Ling was worried that Xia Xiao would have too much trouble traveling, so she didn't let the carriage go too fast. As for the sightseeing mentioned before,
they had to give up.

Because Xia Xiao had difficulty moving around, Lin Ling personally took care of him in every little detail, even wringing out a towel with
hot water and handing it to him in the morning. Xia Xiao said he wasn't really disabled, and Lin Ling didn't need to do this. Lin Ling
insisted that the doctor had instructed his leg to rest properly for three months to fully recover, and if he didn't take it seriously
and wandered around, what if he really became a cripple? At

the end of April, Xia Xiao returned to the capital with the same group of people he had left with.

Lin Ling helped Xia Xiao into the bedroom, then excitedly
plopped inhaling the fresh scent of the quilt, and happily said, "Finally home!"

Xia Xiao smiled and sat down at the table.

Xiaoya brought Xia Xiao a cup of hot tea. "Seventh Prince, I heard you were injured. Is it serious?"

Xia Xiao replied, "It's nothing serious. I'll be fine in another month or so."

Lin Ling, lying on the bed, turned her head and asked, "Xiaoya, where's Mimi?"

"Mimi's always running around in the garden. She only comes back when she's hungry. Miss, you've lost weight since you went out
."

Lin Ling laughed and jumped up from the bed. "Losing weight is a good thing! I brought you a gift. Come with me to see it."

Xiaoya smiled and said, "What's the rush? You just got back. Have some tea and rest first."

"Oh, let's look at the gifts first. Come with me."

Xia Xiao watched Lin Ling hop and skip away like a little rabbit, pulling Xiaoya
along . He couldn't help but smile faintly again. Although there were still many things to resolve, he felt very happy now.

The day after Xia Xiao returned, people began to come to visit him to inquire about his condition. Lin Ling's status
was awkward , so she couldn't show herself and could only leave her bedroom to play with Mimi in the garden. She wandered around the garden from morning to afternoon,
and the guests kept coming in waves. Bored, Lin Ling secretly climbed up a big tree in the yard to see
who these people were. Most of them only stayed for a short while before leaving, and she didn't recognize any of them; however,
she did recognize two of them: the Eighth Prince and Princess Songqi. In the evening, Qiao Luo also came. She stayed for almost
half an hour and finally left, wiping away tears.

Lin Ling climbed down from the tree after Qiao Luo left the courtyard, and peeked into the house through the doorway.

Xia Xiao, sitting in an armchair, saw her and said, "Where have you been all day? Come here."

Lin Ling stood at the door and said, "Do you have any other guests?"

"I'm tired after seeing so many people all day. I didn't see anyone else today."

Lin Ling remained standing by the door, swinging her hands behind her back as she spoke. "Tired and still
talking to her for so long?"

Xia Xiao raised an eyebrow. "Which 'her'?"

Lin Ling nudged him with her nose and didn't answer.

Xia Xiao chuckled, "Silly girl, come here."

Lin Ling slowly walked over and sat on his uninjured leg, one arm around Xia Xiao's neck,
the other fist waving up and down near her eyes. "She was like this when she left, crying."

Xia Xiao pinched her nose. "Qiao Qiao is timid; she cried when she saw the scar."

Lin Ling's eyes widened like a puppy suddenly spotting food, blazing with anger
. "Why did you show her your body?! Where did she see it?"

"Your back."

Lin Ling punched Xia Xiao's chest. "You big bad guy, why did you
expose ?"

"She insisted on seeing how serious the injury on my back was."

"Hmph! If she wants you to do a striptease for her, will you do it?"

Xia Xiao stroked his chin and thought for a moment, "...If you want to see it, then I..."

Lin Ling's mind involuntarily began to imagine Xia Xiao doing a striptease, and she chuckled.

Xia Xiao ruffled her hair and said, "Alright, it's time for us to eat."

The maid placed several delicate home-style stir-fries on the table and then left.

Lin Ling remained entangled on Xia Xiao's lap, tilting her head to look at the dishes on the table. "I want that
tofu stew."

Xia Xiao scooped a spoonful of diced meat and tofu and fed it to her, sighing, "I was just getting used to being treated like a king
, how come things have changed as soon as I get home?"

Lin Ling swallowed the meat and tofu, snorting, "You're already showing off your scars in front of young girls,
do you expect me to treat you like a patient?"

Xia Xiao shook his head with a smile, "You, you're so unforgiving. I've already said I only see Qiao Qiao as a younger sister."

Lin Ling pouted, "She definitely likes you, I guarantee it with my woman's intuition!"

"Ha, you have a woman's intuition?"

"Xia Xiao, don't underestimate me! I'm telling you now, she definitely, absolutely likes you,
what going to do about it?"

Xia Xiao scratched his head, "So what if she likes me? There are plenty of women who like me, Seventh Young Master, what can I do?"

Lin Ling grabbed his cheek and shouted that he was shameless. The two finished dinner laughing and joking. Lin Ling helped Xia Xiao
sit on the bed, and she sat on the edge of the bed, gently massaging his injured leg with her small hands.

Xia Xiao stroked Lin Ling's hair and said, "Baby, you don't need to massage it anymore, the wound has already healed."

Lin Ling said, "How is it healed? The doctor said I shouldn't walk for three months. I'm massaging it every day so you can
recover quickly."

Xia Xiao smiled at her, "Ling'er, I really want to marry you as soon as possible."

Lin Ling looked up at him, smiling shyly.

Xia Xiao pulled her into his arms and kissed her tenderly. Lin Ling obediently closed her eyes, sticking out her little tongue
to dance with his, but the moment Xia Xiao slipped his hand inside her clothes, she slipped away like a little fish.

Xia Xiao said discontentedly, "Why are you running? Come here!"

Lin Ling smiled and continued massaging his legs. "What would I do there? You're not able to do it right now."

Xia Xiao retorted angrily, "Who's not able to do it?!"

Lin Ling stopped massaging his legs, sat cross-legged on the bed, and said with a smile, "I didn't say anything wrong.
It's your physical condition that doesn't allow it. The doctor said you can't even walk, so of course you can't... um...
engage in strenuous exercise."

Xia Xiao clenched his fists and said, "I'd rather die than be humiliated. I'm going to fight for this today!"
As he spoke, he stretched out his long arm and grabbed Lin Ling from the bedside.

Lin Ling was mindful of Xia Xiao's injuries and didn't dare to struggle, letting Xia Xiao push her onto the bed and kiss her all the way
from her mouth to her chest.

Xia Xiao greedily devoured Lin Ling's plump, white breasts, sucking and nibbling at the soft little red nipples.

Lin Ling, her face flushed, ruffled Xia Xiao's hair and said tremblingly, "Good brother, please don't... Ah~ You
're injured, don't move around... Your ribs have just healed, um~ it's better not to... um..."

"It's okay, baby, I'll let you sit on it later."

"But... that won't do~ What if I break your ribs?"

Xia Xiao was annoyed. Those were ribs, not cartilage, okay? He impatiently bit her smooth, white breasts, leaving
a series of erotic red marks. If this little vixen didn't cooperate, he might really be unable to control her now…
Lin

Ling twisted her body, grabbing Xia Xiao's head with both hands to prevent him from touching her chest, and said in a low, panting voice,
"Good brother, no more… can you wait a little longer, another month, okay?"

Xia Xiao lay down and hugged Lin Ling in his arms, saying pitifully, "Baby, it's already been two months,
and I have to wait another month? I'll die."

Lin Ling patted his head, "You won't die, will you…?"

"Although I won't die, I'll be in a bad mood. If I'm in a bad mood, the wound will heal slowly, and the slower the wound heals,
the worse my mood will be, and then the wound will heal even slower…"

Lin Ling looked at Xia Xiao with a troubled expression. What he said seemed to make sense.

"Baby, I'll get internal injuries if I keep doing this. My leg will probably never heal... Sigh~"
Xia Xiao hugged her waist and swayed her back and forth, just like a little child.

Lin Ling's heart began to waver. Maybe she could... Besides, actually, she really wanted it too
. But the doctor said she couldn't move around too much... Although he looked pitiful now, he wouldn't be so easy to talk to once he got really
into . He would definitely do whatever he wanted, and if he really touched the wound, it would be no
joke.

Lin Ling frowned and thought hard, and finally said in a low voice, "Then... can I
use my mouth to help you?"

Xia Xiao sighed silently in his heart. He had pretended to be pitiful for so long, but in the end, he only wanted to use his mouth. But,
cough cough , his darling's little mouth was quite nice too.

Chapter 89 Little Silly Girl

Xia Xiao stretched out his arm and pulled her into his arms, kissing her rosy, moist lips affectionately. He smiled and said,
"You're a little silly girl."

Lin Ling hugged Xia Xiao's waist and buried her face in his chest, rubbing against him with soft moans.

Xia Xiao lifted the clothes she had hastily covered, pinching her plump breasts, and said, "Little silly girl, I've taught you
so many times, how come you still can't get the hang of it? Actually, deep throat is fine too. I just went in a little bit, and
you almost wanted to bite me."

Hearing this, Lin Ling hugged his neck and raised her little face, saying, "Good brother, let me tell you a story?"

Xia Xiao was annoyed; his second brother was still full of energy, but she wanted to tell him a story. Xia Xiao said, "Let's
tell you later..."

"Oh, it's a very interesting story~" "

...Okay." "

There was a couple in Lingyang who were very fond of each other. Every first and fifteenth of the lunar month, and on holidays and celebrations, the wife would always serve her husband with her mouth,
calling it a festival. One day, the husband was so aroused that his wife choked and died, leaving him a widower. The husband was very sad. The following year on
the fifteenth of the seventh lunar month, his wife's spirit came to his bedside at night and said in a chilling voice, 'I have come to celebrate the festival.'"

After Lin Ling finished telling the story, she rolled into the quilt and laughed heartily. While laughing, she asked Xia Xiao, "Why aren't you laughing?
Isn't it funny? The Ghost Festival is still a festival, haha~"

Xia Xiao's expression was a bit of a wry smile. "It's not that it's not funny, it's just that it doesn't seem appropriate to tell it now...
"

The moonlight outside the window shone with a pale blue glow. The little woman in the room soon melted into a puddle and slumped
against Xia Xiao. The two of them embraced like mandarin ducks, and who knows how much more sweetness
they had to continue.

Chapter 89 of Childhood Sweethearts (H):

Lin Ling lay on the bed, her legs dangling behind her back. She unbuckled Xia Xiao's belt, releasing his penis from
his pants. Then, she used her soft little hands to grasp and rub his penis a couple of times, and Xia Xiao's penis immediately
became thick and hard.

Lin Ling smiled and said, "Second brother, why are you in such a hurry?"

Xia Xiao comfortably leaned against the headboard with his hands behind his head. "Stop talking nonsense and hurry up and serve your second brother."

Lin Ling slightly opened her mouth and took the mushroom-shaped glans into her mouth. Her pink tongue
skillfully licked around the edge of the mushroom, then came to the urethral opening in the middle, probing and sucking and teasing it with the tip of her tongue.

Xia Ying squinted and softly hummed in agreement. Lin Ling raised her head coquettishly, "Xia Xiao, you especially like it when
I eat here."

Xia Xiao pressed Lin Ling's head down and simply instructed, "Continue."

Lin Ling opened her mouth wide and took most of Xia Xiao's penis into her mouth,
diligently stroking the exposed part with her two small hands. Although Xia Xiao's penis was deeply pressed against her throat, making her a little uncomfortable, she
wanted to make him feel good.

Lin Ling closed her eyes, her eyelashes trembling slightly. Her thin nostrils trembled slightly as her mouth was
completely , trying to breathe more air. Her fair cheeks were slightly sunken, and
the delicate skin inside her mouth tightly gripped and rubbed against his penis, her voice sticky as she swallowed and moved up and down.

Xia Xiao reached out and ruffled Lin Ling's hair, whispering, "Faster, baby."

Xia Xiao's penis grew bigger and thicker, making it increasingly difficult for Lin Ling to swallow. Because her mouth was
so full, saliva dripped from the corners of her mouth like silver threads. Lin Ling's little head moved
up and down all her might, but Xia Xiao's penis was too thick, and she had a lot of effort to swallow and spit it out. How could she possibly
go fast? Lin Ling's throat was already slightly sore, but Xia Xiao was still not satisfied and thrust his waist to push his penis deeper inside.

Lin Ling spat out his penis with difficulty, panting heavily, "I told you... not to move, why are you still moving?"

"Baby, you're too slow, I can't ejaculate at all like this."

Lin Ling frowned in distress and said, "Then what should I do? I can't swallow it, you're too big, I'm going to
choke to death."

Xia Xiao stretched out his arm and pulled her into his arms, lovingly kissing her rosy and moist lips, and said with a smile,
"You're a little silly."

Lin Ling hugged Xia Xiao's waist and buried her face in his chest in a coquettish manner, humming and rubbing against him.

Xia Xiao lifted the clothes she had hastily covered, pinched her plump breasts, and said, "Silly girl, I've taught you
so many times, how come you still can't get the hang of it? Actually, deep throat is fine too. I just went in a little bit, and
you almost wanted to bite me."

Lin Ling hugged his neck and raised her little face, saying, "Good brother, shall I tell you a story?"

Xia Xiao was annoyed; his second brother was still full of energy, but she had to tell him a story. Xia Xiao said, "Let's
tell you later..."

"Oh, it's a very interesting story~" "

...Okay."

"There was a couple in Lingyang who loved oral sex. Every first and fifteenth of the lunar month, and on holidays and celebrations, the wife would serve her
husband orally, calling it 'celebrating the festival.' One day, the husband was so aroused that his wife choked and died, becoming a widower. The husband was very sad.
The following year on the fifteenth of the seventh lunar month, his wife's spirit came to his bedside at night, saying eerily, 'I have come to celebrate the festival.'"

After Lin Ling finished telling the story, she rolled into the quilt and laughed heartily. While laughing, she asked Xia Xiao, "Why aren't you laughing?
Isn't it funny? The Ghost Festival is still a festival, haha~"

Xia Xiao's expression was a bit like laughing and crying. "It's not that it's not funny, it just doesn't seem appropriate to tell it now...
"

Lin Ling actually dared to reach out and flick Xia Xiao's penis. The big, thick penis swayed
slightly it. She said with a grin, "Second brother, are you scared?"

Xia Xiao grabbed Lin Ling and pinned her down, tickling her all over. "You brat,
where get all this junk?"

Lin Ling laughed, dodging as she spoke. "It's all those weird books you brought back. Hehe, deep
throat stuff, let's see if you dare now!"

"What don't I dare? Even if you turned into a ghost, I'd still make you call me 'good brother'."

"Hahaha~ Ugh~ Don't pinch me, where are you pinching me! You're so annoying..."

Xia Xiao grabbed Lin Ling's nipple, mischievously stretching it and kneading it between his fingertips, enjoying the soft, bouncy, and tender feel of the
little red dot.

Lin Ling twisted her body, stubbornly spouting nonsense, "Bad brother, I told you you can't right now, why are you still
touching and pinching me~"

Xia Xiao was furious at this. He pressed her down on the bed with his large hand and tried to pull down her skirt, gritting his teeth
as he said, "You brat, you won't know your place until I've done it to you!"

Seeing that Xia Xiao was serious, Lin Ling quickly hugged him and begged for mercy, "Good brother, I was just playing with you.
It's really not possible right now, we have a long life ahead of us, there's no rush, right?"

Xia Xiao leaned over Lin Ling, his eyes gleaming as he stared at her, his expression obscured by the backlight.

Lin Ling said softly, "How about I continue to serve you with my mouth? I promise I won't complain this time."

Xia Xiao snorted and turned his face away. "Forget it, even a choked ghost looks ugly."

Lin Ling chuckled. "Then... just to be safe, I'll use my hand." Lin Ling's soft little hand
slid down Xia Xiao's waist, grasped his hot penis, and gently stroked it in her palm.

Xia Xiao still looked embarrassed and mumbled, "You're so clumsy, I can't satisfy you."
He missed her soft, tight, smooth, and tender little hole so much... Sigh, he couldn't think about it, it made his lower body
ache.

Lin Ling pretended not to hear his complaints, and obsequiously took off Xia Xiao's shirt, made him sit up against the headboard,
and then obediently leaned against him, rubbing her tender nipples against his smooth chest, her little hand stroking
his big penis up and down in a flattering manner.

Xia Xiao, frustrated but with nowhere to vent his anger, could only lift Lin Ling's chin and kiss her fiercely, sucking her lips until they ached,
his large tongue darting into her mouth with loud swallowing sounds. Lin Ling swallowed their saliva with difficulty, whimpering like a kitten,
her small hands below diligently rubbing his large penis.

When Xia Xiao had his fill of kissing, he reached out and grabbed Lin Ling's small hand, stroking it rapidly, biting her ear and saying,
"You silly little thing, you don't know how to serve a man, silly little thing, silly little thing."

Xia Xiao gripped her hand and stroked it faster and faster until he felt like he was about to ejaculate, then pressed Lin Ling's head down, making her lower herself.
Lin Ling knew what he meant, and quickly bent down, opening her small mouth to take his penis in, swallowing and spitting it out diligently.

Xia Xiao grabbed Lin Ling's hair, shaking her small head rapidly, thrusting his hips to push his penis into her mouth,
feeling how delicate the skin inside her mouth moved, sucking on his shaft, her small tongue licking his glans,
making his scalp tingle with intense excitement.

Xia Xiao thrust forcefully a dozen times, a flash of white light in his mind, and then he ejaculated a large amount of semen into Lin Ling's mouth.

Lin Ling was prepared, so she wasn't choked by the hot, fishy liquid, but
swallowed it little by little. However, Xia Xiao had ejaculated so much that a lot of sticky white liquid still dripped from the corners of Lin
Ling's mouth to the base of his penis. Xia Xiao gently grasped the back of Lin Ling's head, shaking her head
and keeping her eyes closed to prolong the pleasure of her orgasm.

Lin Ling sucked on Xia Xiao's still slightly erect penis while swallowing large gulps of semen. Finally, the penis
in her mouth no longer made her throat hurt, and she had swallowed all the semen. Lin Ling then slowly
spat out Xia Xiao's penis, resting her head against his groin and breathing softly. After resting for a moment, she stuck out her pink
little tongue and licked her way up Xia Xiao's thigh. First, she licked the white sticky fluid off the coarse black hair
, then she grabbed his penis with her little hand and carefully licked it from top to bottom. Finally, she obediently returned to Xia
Xiao's arms, hugged his neck, and said, "Good brother, I ate it all up~"

Xia Xiao smiled and looked at her, saying, "Silly girl, was it delicious?"

Lin Ling said mischievously, "It's even more delicious than delicacies. Does that make you feel better?"

"Hmm, not bad."

"If you're in a good mood, you should heal your wound quickly~"

"Then, baby, are you wet down there?"

Lin Ling blushed slightly at Xia Xiao's mischievous smile and turned her face away, refusing to answer.

"You won't tell me, huh? Then I'll touch it myself." Xia Xiao's hand moved down Lin Ling's waist.

Lin Ling grabbed his hand, not letting him move, and Xia Xiao pressed her body down and touched her all the way inside.

"…Ah!"

"Hehe, you're wet."

"Mmm…"

"And completely soaked, you little vixen."

"Ah…uh, you're so naughty, Brother Xia Xiao."

The moonlight outside the window shone with a pale blue glow, and the little woman inside soon melted into a puddle of
water, collapsing onto Xia Xiao's body. The two embraced like mandarin ducks, with countless sweet moments yet to
come.

Chapter 90 Baby

In early May, Gu Xiaomi gave birth to a son. Lin Ling, upon hearing the news, immediately went to Tiansheng Martial Arts School to offer her congratulations and
visit. Before leaving, she thought for a moment and said, "Xia Xiao, why don't you send two people to follow me? I'm afraid that
pervert Xia Ying might do something again."

Xia Xiao said, "This is the capital city. It's not so convenient for him to do whatever he wants. Besides... I
always . Do you think I would let you run around alone?"

Lin Ling was stunned. "You've sent people to follow me before. How come I didn't know?"

Xia Xiao laughed. "If they can't even be found following a newbie like you, then they're not shadow guards, they're pigs."

Lin Ling frowned and didn't say anything.

Xia Xiao looked at her and explained, "Ling'er, I'm not trying to spy on you, it's really for your safety."

Lin Ling said, "Then if I get tired while shopping or if I'm carrying something too heavy, can I ask them to come and
help?"

This time it was Xia Xiao's turn to frown. He said, "It's probably best not to. They are all martial arts masters. If you
ask them to do odd jobs, they might feel insulted..."

"Hehe, I was just kidding. Bye-bye~" Lin Ling waved to Xia Xiao and went to Tiansheng Martial Arts School.
She was indeed a little unhappy after hearing Xia Xiao's words. Although his actions were for safety reasons, Lin Ling
felt he was also monitoring her, especially since she hadn't stayed willingly. However,
thinking about all the troubles Xia Xiao was currently facing, her heart softened, and she deliberately changed the subject,
not wanting to cause him any trouble.

Lin Ling brought a pair of gold bell bracelets as a gift for the baby. The baby was chubby and rosy-cheeked,
sleeping soundly with his eyes closed when Lin Ling looked at him. Lin Ling gently touched his tiny hand;
a hands were so small.

Lin Ling sat down beside Gu Xiaomi's bed. "Xiaomi, your baby is so cute."

Gu Xiaomi just smiled.

Lin Ling asked again, "Is childbirth really painful?"

"Yes, it hurts a lot."

"Sigh~ How scary."

Gu Xiaomi looked at the baby with deep love in her eyes, "But seeing him makes all the hardship
worthwhile."

Jiang Lei pushed open the door and walked in, smiling, "Ling'er, you're here?"

Lin Ling called out to Brother Lei, and saw Jiang Lei walk to the cradle where the baby was lying with a big smile, lower his head and make
a funny face, then make all sorts of funny noises, muttering, "Son, open your eyes and
call me Daddy."

Lin Ling couldn't stop laughing. How come Jiang Lei became so childish after having a son?

Gu Xiaomi said, "Alright, our son just fell asleep for a little while, don't wake him up again."

Jiang Lei, still feeling a bit unsatisfied, walked to the bedside with his hands behind his back and said, "Ling'er, come and keep Xiaomi company more often. She's in
her postpartum period and can't go out, she's getting very bored."

Lin Ling agreed, and the three chatted for a while longer, the conversation revolving around the baby.
Then, a servant announced from outside the door, "Young Master, Young Master Li Yiyang has come to visit."

Jiang Lei glanced at Lin Ling, who smiled but didn't speak.

Jiang Lei said to the servant, "Quickly, invite him in." The

servant brought Li Yiyang in.

Li Yiyang was still tall and elegant, but he was terribly thin. He was startled when he saw Lin Ling and
walked over, saying, "Ling'er, you've come." Lin Ling

stood up, "Big Brother, you've come."

Lin Ling looked at Li Yiyang; from childhood to adulthood, he had always been the closest person to her. Although many things
had changed, she still felt close to him. Li Yiyang looked at Lin Ling. Her eyes were clear, bright, and calm
as water, yet this gaze made him uneasy. The tender, lingering look that comes with loving someone
seemed to be absent from her eyes.

They gazed at each other, and finally Lin Ling subtly looked away. Li Yiyang, as if realizing something
, forced a smile at Jiang Lei and his wife, "Jiang Lei, Xiao Mi, congratulations on the arrival of your son."

Li Yiyang went over to look at the baby and praised him. Jiang Lei was about to say, "You've been married for three years, how come you
still don't have a son?" but then thought it inappropriate and swallowed his words.

Li Yiyang gave the baby a longevity gold lock. Gu Xiao Mi was about to say that the longevity lock and the
pair of bracelets Lin Ling had given her would match perfectly, but she also swallowed her words.

The four of them talked for a while longer. Lin Ling told them that she had met Cheng Haoran in Danyang, and that Cheng Haoran's
biological father was Zhong Haoyu, the leader of the Jiuhua Sect. Jiang Lei and Gu Xiao Mi were naturally filled with emotion upon hearing this. Li Yiyang
didn't say much, his eyes fixed on Lin Ling the entire time. Jiang Lei and his wife both sighed inwardly at what a tragic fate they had.

Jiang Lei invited Li Yiyang and Lin Ling to have dinner with him before seeing them off from the martial arts school.

The two walked side by side down the road. Li Yiyang said, "Ling'er, it's been half a year since we last met."

Lin Ling replied, "Yes, I was in Danyang for over three months."

"How have you been?"

"…I'm fine."

"Is Xia Xiao good to you?"

Lin Ling knew some things needed to be clarified. She stopped and mustered her courage to say, "Boss, Xia Xiao is
very good to me. I know he went too far with what he did before. I don't ask for your forgiveness, but I've decided to spend the rest of my life
with him. Please don't worry about me anymore, and I hope you can be happy too."

Li Yiyang's fair face grew even paler. He looked deeply at Lin Ling and said, "Ling'er, have you
… fallen in love with him?"

Lin Ling looked at Li Yiyang. Even now, he was still the person she least wanted to hurt in this world.
Lin Ling lowered her head and said in a soft but clear voice, "Yes, I've fallen in love with Xia Xiao."

Li Yiyang felt as if his heart had been ripped out in an instant. He couldn't help but tremble slightly, his mouth opening and closing
several times, but no sound came out. Li Yiyang turned his back to Lin Ling, and after a long while,
he said in a hoarse voice, "Ling'er, go back by yourself. I don't think I can see you off today."

Lin Ling looked at Li Yiyang's back—thin, upright, lonely, and sorrowful—and it truly made her feel…
heartache . She said softly, "Brother Yang, I hope you're happy. You don't have to forgive me, but you should live
your life well. Look at you, so thin."

Li Yiyang didn't turn around. "Silly girl, how could I not forgive you? I've never blamed you."

"It was I who broke our promise. You should blame me."

Li Yiyang was silent for a while before speaking, "Ling'er, if you can be happy... that's good too. The last
thing I want to see is you sad. Go back, it's getting late."

Even though Lin Ling was very sad and reluctant, she understood that sometimes being too soft-hearted is also a kind of cruelty.
She suppressed the sadness in her heart and said, "Boss, then I'm leaving. You should go back early too."

Li Yiyang nodded without speaking, listening to Lin Ling's footsteps gradually disappear into the distance, leaving him alone on the street corner.
The breeze of the May night was warm and pleasant, but he only felt gray and cold in his heart. ?

Lin Ling returned to the Seventh Prince's residence. Xia Xiao was processing official documents under the lamp.

Lin Ling hugged his neck and sat on his lap, resting her head on his neck without speaking.

Xia Xiao put down her pen. "What's wrong?"

Lin Ling said listlessly, "Nothing."

"Then why do you seem unhappy?"

"I'm not unhappy. Gu Xiaomi gave birth to a son, chubby and sleeping the whole time."

Xia Xiao stroked Lin Ling's hair and said, "When are you going to give me a son?"

Lin Ling smiled and said, "And when are you going to marry me?"

Xia Xiao thought for a moment and said, "Ling'er, I can't give you a definite time yet.
Although , he's actually at his limit. I think next year... at the latest the year after, I will definitely
kill him by my hand."

"But even if you kill Xia Ying, your father might not let you marry me."

"I'm not mentioning our marriage to my father now because I can't
guarantee I can get away unscathed before I've dealt with Xia Ying. What if, just what if, I marry you and then lose to Xia Ying,
what will you do then?"

"Xia Xiao, you're always like this, never telling me what you're thinking."

"I'll tell you whenever you ask from now on."

"You haven't said what you'll do if your father doesn't agree to let you marry me?"

"He won't always refuse. I'm still his son, and he always wants the best for me."

"But you're planning to kill his other son, do you know he won't hate you?"

Xia Xiao sighed, "The royal family has always been like this, I think my father can understand. For my mother's sake
, my father won't be too heartless towards me."

"What if he refuses even if it kills him?"

Xia Xiao answered resolutely. "Ling'er, even if I lose the title of prince, I will still marry you.
There's nothing I, Xia Xiao, can't do if I truly want to. You have to believe me."

Lin Ling looked up into his eyes and said, "Xia Xiao, I believe you. I'll believe whatever you say. I'll
always by your side, in times of hardship and in times of happiness. I will... wait for you to marry me."

Xia Xiao lowered his head and kissed her lips. "Baby, after we get married, you have to give me a
baby as cute as you."

Lin Ling smiled slightly. "What if we give birth to a little devil as fearless as you
?"

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[Childhood Sweethearts Have an End] (81-90) Author: No Cat Under Heaven

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