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"'Old Antique'? So that's how she refers to me?" Fu Hua surmised that this "other self" might likely be a cherished junior or descendant; otherwise, it wouldn't explain why she felt such uncontrollable tenderness toward Shi. However, trying solely through speculation couldn't fill the gap in her memories regarding Shi's true identity.
"Losing my memories is truly inconvenient!" Fu Hua sighed, deciding not to delve deeper into these thoughts.
She fully understood that at this moment, maintaining her tranquil state of mind and composed demeanor was paramount above all else. Once she could swiftly recover her memories and strength, any other issues could be resolved appropriately—though Fu Hua couldn't recall her glorious past, her intuition instilled confidence in herself.
Oh right, there's another crucial matter—hide her injuries from her husband to avoid burdening him further.
"What's on your mind?"
As a pivotal figure, Zeke gently stroked Fu Hua's soft gray hair, asking with his usual warm calmness.
Unbeknownst to Fu Hua, Otto and Su, who had just regained their faculties, arrived briefly upon Zeke's summons before leaving without her noticing.
Fu Hua was unaware of Zeke's precautions against Senti potentially giving up entirely. After traversing her mental domain, she felt significantly better. Stretching her neck while still resting her head on Zeke's lap, she smiled, "My lord, will you stay here with me all day? No need to attend to national affairs?"
"Don't treat me like some feudal-era monarch; I have plenty of capable individuals, and my designed tools are efficient enough. There's time for both work and companionship," Zeke replied nonchalantly.
"Sneeze!" x N
At that moment, Cocolia, Chen Tianwu, Welt, and other administrative personnel, all sporting dark circles under their eyes, simultaneously sneezed.
Fu Hua pondered for a moment, her slightly furrowed brows relaxing as she nodded.
"That's good; national affairs take precedence."
"And right now, you are those national affairs."
"Huh?"
"As Shenzhou's Immortal Red Kite, your well-being affects the morale of its most influential group. As one of the Thirteen Heroic Spirits, your safety concerns the others among them. Although combined, they still wouldn't stand a chance against me, their combat capabilities remain valuable assets. I need to ensure these individuals' satisfaction. Without your recovery, maintaining stability becomes challenging."
Zeke's reasoning was highly persuasive—at least, Fu Hua, with her memory loss, couldn't detect any flaws and felt a profound sense of responsibility.
She opened her mouth, unsure how to respond, when Zeke continued:
"Additionally, as the overseer of the Mantra Hall, once you recover, the selection, duties, and performance of administrative personnel can proceed normally. Do you understand?"
"Yes, my husband! I will certainly focus on healing swiftly!"
Fu Hua sat up abruptly, turning towards Zeke and nodding solemnly.
Zeke's words were partly true and partly false. The truth lay in Fu Hua's safety indeed impacting those factors, but the falsehood was that Zeke had numerous ways to address these issues—her recovery timeline didn't significantly affect the situation.
Zeke had accurately gauged Fu Hua's character. Appealing to her personal safety would have limited effect, but invoking grand ideals like the greater good and fate of the world immediately resonated with her.
Seeing Fu Hua's earnest response, Zeke knew she would now steadfastly focus on fully recovering from her injuries.
'Seducing her into bed and conceiving twins doesn't seem too challenging after all.'
Pleased by how easily she could be swayed, as always, Zeke casually waved his hand and said,
"Stay composed, minimize distractions, and focus on your recovery. Also, prepare dinner; I'll be dining here tonight."
"Yes, my husband!" Fu Hua clasped her hands over her heart, her face radiant with joy. She lifted her long robe slightly and jogged indoors.
Watching her graceful figure depart, Zeke chuckled softly. Then, spreading his palm against his chest, a diminutive spirit clad in elegant ancient attire gently landed in it, sitting poised and obediently.
"Hmph! Shouldn't someone express gratitude to the exceptionally clever Little Fuxi?" The Book of Black and White proudly raised its tiny head, seeking praise.
Only the Book of Fuxi would dare to reappear after tricking Zeke. Even the ever-entertaining Ellie had avoided him for over a day, fearing his reprisal.
Zeke gently grasped the small head of the Book of Fuxi, lifting her up by his finger.
"Ooh! What are you doing?"
"Prepare yourself. I won't do anything, but Fu Hua, once she regains her memories, might not be as forgiving."
"It was all Lady Elysia's idea; even Lord Fuxi and Mistress Nuwa couldn't resist her. Poor little me, what choice did I have? Don't worry, there are plenty of ways to keep that stubborn blockhead in line!"
Swinging beneath Zeke's finger, the Book of Fuxi tucked her hands into her sleeves, wearing a cunning smile with unwavering confidence.
Indeed, Fu Hua was straightforward and simply no match for the clever Book of Fuxi. From its inception, the artificial intelligence was designed precisely to manipulate Fu Hua in various ways—without such capabilities, neither Fuxi nor Nuwa would have entrusted their carefree charge to anyone else.
Zeke gently shook the tiny form of the Book of Black and White, chuckling as he shook his head.
"I know what you've come to ask about. My conclusion aligns with Su's: The injuries were severe; any ordinary person would have died countless times over. However, Fu Hua has already ventured too far down this path, making her resilient enough to endure it. Moreover, Senti's presence serves as an unparalleled safeguard. In summary, at most within three to five months, or possibly even sooner... she might regain her memories in just a few days."
"Oh."
Relieved, the Book of Black and White let out a sigh and patted Zeke's fingers around its head, signaling him to release its grip.
Zeke loosened his hold.
The Book of Black and White then flew atop Zeke's head and slowly settled amidst his silver hair.
"Sigh... Given how far things have progressed, I won't bring up settling debts now. Zeke, here's what I want to tell you: Jokes aside, this isn't merely light-hearted banter. You must understand that there are certain matters I take very seriously.
"My seriousness extends towards Fu Hua."
"That's evident. To be honest, considering both your stubborn natures, if either of you hadn't been fully committed, you wouldn't have reached this point... Despite often encouraging you two before, now that it's actually happening, I find myself quite apprehensive."
The Book of Fuxi sighed softly, resembling an old (stricken out)—loli mother deeply concerned about her daughter's marriage.
Zeke understood that the Book of Fuxi had cared for Fu Hua for a long time and respected this bond. With sincerity, he replied:
"I will take good care of her."
"I believe you. Regardless of other matters, at least I trust my judgment. Following you, the stubborn blockhead... Never mind, by then, it probably won't be my concern anymore." The Book of Fuxi spoke wistfully, her small face reflecting sadness.
She had been solely responsible for Fu Hua's well-being for far too long. Handing over this duty... The Book of Fuxi lifted her head, gazing at sunlight filtering through leaves, suddenly feeling its glare prickling her eyes.
"Beloved... Little Fuxi, you're back. Dinner is ready; please come inside quickly," Fu Hua called from the courtyard, waving them over.
Zeke gently removed the Book of Fuxi from his head, cradling her in his hands as he walked towards Fu Hua, whispering softly:
"What, eager to shed this responsibility? Planning to ignore her now?"
"In your dreams! I'll always keep an eye on both of you. Don't even think about mistreating the stubborn blockhead!"
"Alright, looking forward to your guidance in the future," Zeke responded calmly.
By marrying Fu Hua, the Book of Fuxi naturally had to accompany her; otherwise, Fu Hua wouldn't feel secure staying alone. For over a thousand years, they have been inseparable as family. After finally reuniting, separating them again would be too cruel.
As pet, mother-in-law, and friend, the Book of Fuxi assumed these roles effortlessly alongside Fu Hua.
The Book of Fuxi smiled contentedly.
With the setting sun approaching, the trio - two adults and one child - entered the house. The soft red sunlight cast upon the empty stone pavilion in the courtyard, creating a serene and warm ambiance.