在皇后鞋裡散步 A walk in the empress shoes Zài huánghòu xié lǐ sànbù

CHAPTER 2 Rebirth

In the depths of late summer, the heavens unleashed an unexpected deluge, drenching the earth with the tears of the heavens, as if purging the wickedness that clung to its surface. This extraordinary weather carried the hope of brighter days and fresh starts once its relentless cascade ceased. As the raindrops gently tapped on rooftops, a serene stillness envelop summer evening. Within the expansive courtyard, adorned with vibrant red and green hues, the pathway leading to the residence gleamed with pristine white porcelain tiles.

Each tile bore an intricate engraving of flowers, their patterns etched in a captivating blood-red shade. The left structure, crowned with glazed ceramic tiles, exuded a tranquil ambiance, reflecting the essence of its owner. Embracing the downpour, the surrounding trees gracefully collected rainwater, their leaves guiding the droplets into a nearby pond, creating a harmonious symphony of nature's cleansing touch.

Inside the residence, two maids collaborated in lighting incense, filling the air with the earthy and sweet aroma of honeysuckle. Adjacent to a small couch, a table displayed plates of partially consumed fruits. The bed, concealed by sheer curtains, revealed a faint silhouette atop a mound of pillows. It belonged to a fragile boy, his robes partially undone, and his flowing white silk hair cascading around him. Although his eyes were open, they appeared distant and unfocused, still glistening with tears.

The concern in one maid's voice broke the silence, "Do you think the young master is alright? He has been lost in his thoughts for the past hour since he woke up."

The other maid glanced at the motionless figure and sighed softly. "I'm not sure, but something seems to be troubling him deeply. We should inform the master or mistress about his condition."

Nodding in agreement, they exchanged worried glances, their hearts heavy with concern for the delicate boy who seemed lost in his own world. The young maid pursed her lips, trying to suppress her curiosity, but her eyes couldn't help but steal glances at the troubled boy on the other side of the room. Quickly turning her head away, she felt a mix of concern and confusion. She wasn't sure what had happened to the young master, but something seemed terribly wrong.

Meanwhile, Xui Ying awoke from a nightmarish dream, but as he regained consciousness, he realized it was no ordinary dream. The lingering sensation of the poison burning down his throat haunted him. Opening his eyes and finding himself in his old room, tears began to stream down his face. Somehow, by some merciful intervention of the gods, he had been transported back to his youth, back to the Wang Manor.

Xui Ying remained in a dazed state, memories of his previous life flooding back to him. His mind struggled to grasp the events leading up to his untimely death. Questions swirled in his head, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding about the circumstances surrounding his return to the past.

As Xui Ying's request echoed in the room, both Biyu and Mama Chunhua exchanged glances, their own thoughts mirroring his. Uncertain of what had transpired, but sensing the importance of the moment, Mama Chunhua cautiously handed the mirror to the young master.

Holding the mirror in his trembling hands, Xui Ying gazed at his reflection, his heart pounding in his chest. As he studied the features staring back at him, a mix of awe and disbelief washed over him. His once weathered face, lined with the marks of a difficult life, had transformed. Thick eyebrows, meticulously shaped, adorned his forehead. His round eyes, enhanced by luscious lashes, seemed to sparkle with a newfound vibrancy. The rosy hue of his lips and the perfectly defined straight nose completed the youthful image that greeted him. It was as if the hardships he had endured had been erased, replaced by the innocent countenance of a fourteen-year-old boy.

Unable to tear his eyes away, Xui Ying continued to study his reflection, a mixture of wonder and confusion swirling within him. How was it possible that he had been granted a second chance at this tender age? And what mysteries lay behind this inexplicable turn of events?As Xui Ying gently set the mirror aside, he allowed himself to fully immerse in the familiar surroundings of his room. He closed his eyes, inhaling deeply, savoring the comforting scent that enveloped him. The aroma carried with it memories of home, a place he had yearned for during his time in the underworld.

The rhythmic sound of raindrops hitting the closed windows provided a soothing backdrop to his thoughts. Each droplet seemed to echo a sense of tranquility and protection, further reinforcing the feeling of safety that now embraced him. It was a stark contrast to the harshness of the world he had known outside his father's manor.

Lost in this cocoon of serenity, Xui Ying pondered the meaning of his return to the beginning. What did this unexpected transformation signify? Was it a chance to rewrite his destiny, to correct past mistakes, or perhaps an opportunity to rediscover himself?

With these thoughts swirling in his mind, Xui Ying opened his eyes, determined to embrace this new chapter. He was ready to face the challenges and unravel the mysteries that lay ahead, all while cherishing the familiar comforts and the essence of home that he had longed for.