Zhao Changxia anticipated that County Magistrate Chen would make a move against her after the autumn exams, so she methodically prepared everything. She only had to wait for the Tribute Court to be locked up, and for Chen and the Qu brothers—Qu Ming and Qu Jin—to show their true colors.
Even though Zhao Changxia was fully prepared, the stakes were high and mistakes could cost lives. Qu Qingjiang couldn't help but worry. Zhao Changxia shared some of her past experiences during missions with her.
The once confidential actions gradually came to light as Zhao Changxia felt a sense of belonging to Qu Qingjiang, their little home, and even this strange world.
"...If one is afraid of death, they'll falter. Faltering means falling behind, which leaves them vulnerable to the enemy and either surrendering or facing death. But courage and fearlessness are our bottom line," Zhao Changxia spoke passionately.
Then, she changed the subject, "Of course, I'm not seeking death. Even if one plan fails, I have backup plans. At worst, I might face some hardships. But regardless, I'll find a way to get you out of this. Only when you are safe can I proceed with my plans."
Qu Qingjiang was immersed in the dangerous scenario Zhao described and felt an intense urge to check every inch of her skin for injuries.
Zhao Changxia felt a bit unsettled under her intense gaze but reiterated her commitment to her safety.
Qu Qingjiang looked at her quietly and said, "What if they search you? Won't your identity be exposed?"
Zhao Changxia confidently replied, "Have you forgotten how I managed to deceive everyone and handle the household registration issue?"
She had only worn that new spring farmer's disguise for less than two hours, and it had twenty-two hours before it would expire. As long as the search risk didn't exceed twenty-two hours, the probability of exposure was low, though it might still be a bit uncomfortable.
However, she wasn't someone who clung to preserving her virtue, so she didn't mind these things.
Qu Qingjiang was both curious and vaguely aware of what skills Zhao might use.
"Take off your clothes," Qu Qingjiang said firmly.
Zhao Changxia, taken aback, looked up at the bright sky and said, "It's broad daylight..."
Qu Qingjiang pushed her back into the room, saying, "It has to be in broad daylight so it's clearer and more thorough."
Zhao Changxia teased, "Have you finally come to your senses, dear?"
It seemed that under her training, her wife had become more daring.
"Well, who knows when they might come looking for trouble? We don't have much time left to enjoy ourselves."
Qu Qingjiang closed the door and helped her undress. "What are you mumbling about? Quickly take off your clothes so I can see the scars you left behind."
Zhao Changxia felt deflated. What was the point of showing her scars? It was better to admire her toned abs and the powerful physique she possessed. Hadn't Qu Qingjiang noticed the scars after she had undressed so many times before?
But she had to follow the head of the household's orders.
Qu Qingjiang's fingers gently traced her scars, her heart like a stormy sea. She had imagined Zhao Changxia as someone from a privileged background and guessed she had undergone tough training, but she never expected Zhao had been on the battlefield, facing its cruelty.
YOU ARE READING
The Peach Blossoms White by the Village Edge
Historical FictionDISCLAIMER: I do not claim ownership over this story. I only MTLed it. Original novel: https://www.jjwxc.net/onebook.php?novelid=5820207 Synopsis: When Qu Qingjiang's father was bedridden, his uncles and brothers brought their own children to him, a...