A rush of memories flooded Li Qingyun's mind as she jolted awake. The familiar scent of steaming rice and stir-fried vegetables drifted from the kitchen, a scent she had not smelled in years. She sat up, heart pounding. The rough wooden walls, the small window with paper screens, the worn but clean blanket covering her—it was her childhood home.She scrambled out of bed and rushed to the mirror, her hands trembling. The face staring back at her was young, rounder than she remembered, with clear, unblemished skin. Her long black hair was tied into two neat braids, just as her mother used to style them when she was a child.I… I'm back," she whispered.
Memories of her past life clashed with the present, overwhelming her. The suffering, the betrayals, the painful death—it was all real. And yet, here she was, twelve years old again, with a chance to change everything. Tears welled in her eyes as she clutched her chest, expecting to feel the fatal wound, but there was nothing—only the faint warmth of something hidden. She looked down and saw the pearl bracelet on her wrist, glowing faintly. It wasn't a dream.
"Qingyun, wake up! Breakfast is ready," her mother's voice called from outside.Her breath caught in her throat. Mother.Without hesitation, she ran out of her room and into the small kitchen. There, standing by the stove, was Madam Zhou, her mother, alive and well. Her hair was neatly tied back, her hands moving skillfully as she prepared a simple but hearty meal."Mother…" Qingyun whispered, her voice trembling.
Madam Zhou turned, smiling warmly. "What's wrong, silly girl? Did you have a bad dream?"Qingyun rushed forward and wrapped her arms around her mother, sobbing."My little girl, what's gotten into you?" Madam Zhou laughed gently, patting her back.Qingyun clung to her tightly. She was back. She could change everything.At that moment, she made a vow.This time, I will protect my family. I will not be weak. I will rise above those who seek to harm us.And most importantly—
I will take revenge on those who destroyed my past life.
TO BE CONTINUE......