Shi Min's eyes sparkled with a mix of mischief and support. "Since Lily is taking online classes, train her in your office. Gradually hand over your company to her. It's time she learns the business, anyway."

"What must I learn to prepare for Shun's future?" Ren asked, her brows knitting together as she pondered the daunting road ahead.

Ling Li and Shi Min exchanged knowing smiles. Ren could feel a subtle shift within her, a flicker of acceptance igniting hope. Shi Min moved beside Ren, playfully nudging her shoulder.

"Do you realize you will be the first lady in the future?" Shi Min said, feigning a serious tone but unable to suppress the grin tugging at his lips.

"My sister will be the first lady of the Chinese Republic. What can I say?" Shi Min added while putting his arm around Ren, chuckling.

Ren punches Shi Min on his shoulder. "How could you even joke with me when I'm so stressed out?! So tell me, what do I need to learn?"

Shi Min feigned indignation but couldn't help but chuckle again. "First, you need to study Chinese politics. Understand the intricacies of it all to assist Shun effectively. You also need to immerse yourself in their culture and heritage. This will be your primary role: promoting Chinese culture and being a role model for the citizens. That's the responsibility of the first lady!"

Ren rolled her eyes but felt a warmth spreading through her heart. "Oh, we also need to adjust your fashion statement," Shi Min continued, laughter dancing in his voice. "We can't have you wearing skimpy clothes that show your stomach!"

The absurdity of it all broke the tension like sunlight piercing through clouds. Ren laughed, pushing him away playfully. "Of course, I know that! Brat! Shi Min, remember I'm older than you!"

Ling Li cleared her throat, bringing them back to the task at hand. "We have two years to prepare. While that sounds substantial, it's swift. We need to maximize our time for your training."

Ren nodded as Ling Li continued, "You need to learn self-defense, even the basics. It cannot be avoided. I will have your brother and Mushu in charge of your training. I'll ensure you have all the necessary materials to delve into Chinese politics. You can always ask either of us if you have questions."

"I need to discuss my business with Lily," Ren said, determination lacing her words like steel.

"It should not be a problem for Lily to take over your business," Shi Min assured with a confident nod.

The conversation shifted as Ren's thoughts turned to Shun, a worry threading through her heart. "Shun, his injuries, how bad is it?"

Memories of the earlier flooded back; the sight of Shun, pale and injured, ignited a rush of dread within her.

"Shun will be alright," Shi Min assured, his voice steady. "We've given him medicine, and he's soaked in the herbal formula Mom made at the camp. He's doing better than Fatty and Chatty." Shi Min's attempt at humor laid a balm over Ren's worries. "Don't fret too much; Mom was supervising the training, and we're aware of the limits."

"Does he need further medication?" Ren asked, her heart clenching with concern.

"We provided a cream for him. He should have it regularly," Ling Li chimed in, her voice laced with calm.

"I see. I'll go back and check on Shun again," Ren said, feeling a surge of resolve. She bid them farewell before stepping into the quiet of her room.

As Ren entered, the comforting scent of sandalwood wrapped around her like a soft blanket. Shun lay deeply asleep, the faint rhythm of his breathing a soothing lullaby. Shun looked serene as if the weight of the world had momentarily lifted from his shoulders.

Slipping into bed beside Shun, Ren leaned her head against Shun's shoulder, her heart swelling with fierce emotion. Observing his face, those strong cheekbones, the slight furrow of his brow even in rest, she couldn't stop the tears that flowed freely.

"Why do you carry this burden alone?" Ren whispered to Shun, her voice thick with emotion. In her heart, she felt the gravity of their circumstances pressing down.

In that moment of vulnerability, faced with the impending challenges, Ren felt her resolve harden. She would stand by Shun, a silent partner in an unwritten saga. No matter the trials ahead, they would navigate this tumultuous path together, armed with love and unwavering support.

When Four Eyes finally stirred from his slumber, the golden afternoon sunlight poured through the half-drawn curtains, casting warm patterns across his room. He rubbed his eyes, feeling the weight of sleep still clinging to him. A low rumble from his stomach reminded him of the hours he'd lost. With a resigned sigh, he threw off the covers, changed quickly, and made his way downstairs, each step echoing softly in the stillness.

As Four Eyes descended the staircase, he spotted Shun, Fatty, and Chatty gathered at the bottom, laughter bubbling among them. The scent of something delicious wafted from the kitchen, intensifying his hunger.

"It looks like we all woke up at the same time," Fatty remarked, a cheeky grin spreading across his face as he scratched the back of his head.

"My stomach woke me up; I'm so hungry I could eat a horse!" Chatty exclaimed, his voice a series of animated gestures, eyes wide and expressive.

"Murphy, how are your injuries? Do you feel better?" Fatty inquired, concern creeping into his tone, glancing briefly at the faded bruises visible on Four Eyes' arms.

"At least I don't have a scar on my face like you!" Chatty shot back playfully, his laughter ringing out like a bell.

"Do I need to push you down the stairs to give you the same scar?" Fatty countered with a mock seriousness, raising an eyebrow dramatically.

Their laughter harmonized, filling the hallway with camaraderie that momentarily chased away any remnants of tension from their recent training session.

Their playful banter was interrupted when Lily's sharp voice cut through the warmth of their humor. "You! What happened to your face?!" Lily almost screamed, her eyes wide with worry as she spotted Fatty's bruised and injured cheek.

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