The forest in autumn is a vibrant tapestry of colors and textures in the afternoon sun. The leaves on the trees transform into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a breathtaking sight. The crisp air carries a hint of earthy fragrance, as the fallen leaves crunch underfoot. The forest floor is adorned with mushrooms, acorns, and pinecones, providing a feast for the eyes. Sunlight filters through the branches, casting a warm glow on the woodland, while squirrels scurry about, gathering food for the winter. It's a magical time when nature displays its resplendent beauty. The woods were calm until a loud cry pierced the tranquil atmosphere.
"Sister Xiaofen!" Xiaotian sobbed.
Tears streamed down her delicate face, leaves and twigs clung to her hair, and her clothes were disheveled and dirtied.
A gang of boys, looking like young peasants, were tormenting her, most likely around the age of five or six.
"Ha! Let's see who saves you now," the leader sneered, revealing a sinister grin. His appearance was unremarkable and grouchy, sporting a short haircut.
Suddenly, they were startled by fierce, growling noises, causing them to stumble back in fear.
Amidst the woods, they caught sight of a wild figure. Her wavy black hair obscured her features as she loomed ominously, with branches protruding from her disheveled hair. Her hands moved like claws, and her piercing golden light eyes narrowed menacingly
"Cursed!" They quickly dropped to the ground and scrambled towards safety.
"Huh!" Xiaotian sighed in relief, gazing into her sister's comforting golden eyes.
"Sister, boohoo..." she sobbed, her voice filled with distress. Xiaofen noticed a small bloodstain on her dress and gently lifted the fabric, revealing an ugly bruise formed on her knee.
"Don't worry," Xiaofen reassured, squatting down and fashioning a makeshift bandage to protect Xiaotian's fair skin.
With utmost care, she cradled and carried little Xiaotian on her back, making her way to the open field. Slowly, she walked through the path, a gentle melody she hummed as she wandered amidst the lush grasses and blooming meadows.
"Mother! Father!" she joyfully called out, spotting them in the distance, standing amidst a golden wheat field. Their smiles quickly faded as they caught sight of their younger daughter's blood-stained skirt.
Xiaotian!" They hurriedly approached, concern etched on their faces. Xiaoling, their mother, grew visibly pale, her flowing black hair loosely tied in a bun. Xiaowen, their father, stood protectively beside them, his tall figure towering over the family.
"What happened?" they asked in unison.
"I... I just fell while playing, hehe," Xiaotian replied, attempting to mask the truth with an innocent expression.
"You should be more careful next time," Xiaoling gently scolded, her worries easing as she saw Xiaotian's minor wound. A sense of relief washed over her, and a sweet smile adorned her face as she glanced at the makeshift bandage.
"It looks like Xiaofen is being such a good big sister," she praised, causing Xiaofen to beam with delight at her mother's words.
"Mother? Father?" Xiaofen hesitated for a moment. "Why am I different?" Her warm, golden eyes fixedly stared at her parents.
"They said I'm cursed."
Her father shook his head in denial, affectionately pinching his eight-year-old daughter. "You are special," he smiled, "Your skin is as beautiful as caramel sweets, a blend of dark and fair. You are still my daughter." Leaning in, he absentmindedly kissed her forehead, thoughts of Xiaofen's arrival and the situation of her dire state abruptly coursed through his mind. As Xiaofen nestled into her father's embrace, Xiaowen gently tucked her hair away, his eyes catching a few strands of silvery white hair. They had to dye her hair to conceal her unique features.
As they faced the uncertainties of life, he looked at his wife, worry etched on his face. Sensing his thoughts, Xiaoling offered reassurance with a gentle smile, and they sought solace in each other's embrace. In that moment, their love and resilience shone brightly, creating a powerful image of a family united and determined to weather life's storms.
Xiaofen felt gratitude for the love and warmth surrounding her, motivating her to fiercely protect her family.
She eagerly picked up the basket, her eyes shining with excitement as she glanced at her family. With a wide, toothy smile, she exclaimed, "Let's harvest so we can enjoy Mother's delicious cooking!" They cheerfully continued gathering the crops.
In the face of hardships, and community.
Despite their financial struggles, they stood strong, united by their unwavering determination and resilience, the family found happiness and contentment in their simple way of life. As laborers on other people's farms, they endure long days of toil under the scorching sun, battling unpredictable weather and meager harvests. They worked tirelessly to make ends meet. While they occasionally faced difficulties in providing three meals a day, their bond and love for one another brought them joy. Their income is barely enough to meet their basic needs, but they make do with what little they have, finding solace in the simple joys of family. Despite the challenges, their spirits remain unbroken, fueling their hope for a better tomorrow.
Tired from their little chore, Xiaofen and Xiaotian played on the grass, the sound of laughter and delight filling the air. Xiaofen chased her sister, who ran joyfully to avoid being caught. Suddenly, the ground trembled and Xiaofen spun around, her heart pounding as she heard the galloping hooves and neighs of horses in the distance. As the horsemen approached, their armor shimmering in the sunlight, Xiaofen's eyes widened with recognition. Without hesitation, she scooped up her sister and raced away as fast as her feet could carry them, determined to put as much distance between them and the approaching army as possible.
With a rush of fear,
"Mother! Father!" Xiaofen screamed. The army is coming, again!"