The Elder sighed heavily, then promptly responded.
At that moment, Xiuxiu emerged from inside, looking well-kept.
"Don't rush into drinking. I'll prepare some snacks to go with the wine, otherwise, it's too plain with just drinks."
The Elder hurriedly got up, worried as he noticed Xiuxiu's red-rimmed eyes.
Xiuxiu leaned against the Elder, choking back her tears: "That child Huiying... My life was given by her. Who, indeed, could be so ruthless to harm her?"
The Elder felt equally troubled, and Yi Ran also let out a bitter laugh.
Just now, the relaxed atmosphere he created with a pot of wine turned heavy again.
Yi Ran said, "Wars consume money the most; such events drain resources and burden the people. Yuwen Family Head wages war, the Imperial Court annually raises taxes, but even if Dayuan is truly conquered, Dajin will likely fare no better. The investment for post-war reconstruction will be even greater."
Yi Ran's words hit the crux.
