RIN

Chapter 72

A soldier, alarmed by the sight of Rin coughing blood, speaks up. "I'll call over the estate physician."

"There's no need." Rin wiped the corner of her mouth with her robe sleeve.

"But..."

"Call someone over to properly take care of Madam Tao, she needs a decent and proper burial."

Already aware of her body's condition, Rin deliberately chose to dismiss the idea of calling in a doctor - not to mention her being a female.

Leisurely and with Wei Jingyi supporting her, Rin stands up weakly. She strays her eyes down toward the body of Madam Tao, her eyes red and emotionless.

"Prepare to send young Miss Lixue to her relatives outside of the city. If she asks about her parents, you know what to say."

"Yes, young Master." Wei Jingyi lowered his head lightly before departing from the scene.

Rin lightly conceals her mouth to muffle a cough and subtly shifts her gaze toward the two soldiers.

"Make sure to take care of her properly. If someone asks, inform them that Madam Tao couldn't bear the loss of her husband and took her life to honorably join him." Rin said.

"Yes, Captain Bai."

"And get me Minister Chou, I need his report on the Tuhan."

After issuing out the orders, Rin calmly with a blank expression, walks out of the courtyard - the stench of blood wafting through the air.

...

Once Rin summoned Minister Chou, he hurriedly went over to the provincial office. When the old man arrived, he quickly reported to Rin of the Tuhan's arrival in two days' time.

Based on their commander's direct response, Rin knew it wasn't clear or not if they accepted their surrender. After all, the last time they issued a surrender it was a trap and killed many of their men.

She couldn't help but secretly worry. If they weren't to accept their surrender then...

No. She wouldn't allow it, no matter what, she needed to ensure Governor Tao's last wish and to make sure his daughter was protected.

Although she lost the battle, this was something she refused to fail. She owed him that much.

As she made up her mind, a look of determination and coldness flared within her emerald eyes.

Standing in the center of the currently snow-covered estate garden, Rin stared up at a particular tree in the center.

Despite the cold winters, the chrysanthemum's remained existing - heavy coatings of snow embracing their stem and weak, frail petals.

Her mother in the past said chrysanthemum's reminded her of Rin. Strength, nobility, and elegance.

Rin couldn't help but sigh toward her mother's words. Although she may have possessed some of those qualities, it was still not enough.

Her strength wasn't enough to protect those she cared for or those who served her in her battles. It all wasn't enough.

Looking up at the tree with a serene expression, Rin's ear perks up at the familiar sound of footsteps in the snow. Without diverting her gaze, Rin could already guess who the sudden figure was.

"Did things go smoothly with contacting Miss Lixue's relatives?"

"Yes. Her aunt and uncle have agreed to take her in and raise her." Wei Jingyi casually walked toward Rin.