We Agreed On Experiencing Life, So Why Did You Immortals Become Real? Chapter 390: Those Who Want My Head, Come!

Qin Jingsu guided his army across the desolate plains. Shuling lay not too far ahead.

While traversing Shuling might present a sliver of a chance for survival, Qin Jingsu was acutely aware that the Jin Kingdom lords were not simpletons. They wouldn't afford him such an opportunity.

As anticipated, the pursuing forces soon closed in from behind once more.

Simultaneously, a multitude of Jin Kingdom soldiers materialized at the base of Shuling mountain before him.

Qin Jingsu, perched upon his steed, surveyed the scene ahead and then glanced backward. It was only then that the grim reality struck him – he was ensnared in a pincer movement. Yet, remarkably, not a flicker of panic registered in Qin Jingsu's eyes; he seemed to have resigned himself to his fate long ago.

"If Your Highness the Crown Prince chooses to surrender now, we shall spare your life!" declared Marquis Qu of the Jin Kingdom, projecting his voice from the front of the assembled army.

"There is no need for pointless chatter, cough, cough, cough..." Qin Jingsu managed a few coughs, dabbing the fresh blood from his lips. He fixed his gaze forward, proclaiming, "We sons of Qin have never known surrender!"

"A true pity. We held a certain admiration for Your Highness the Crown Prince," Marquis Qu lamented, shaking his head. "Slaughter them!"

The other lords commanded their respective armies, launching a fierce charge towards Qin Jingsu.

Qin Jingsu, with a determined gaze, swept his arm back commandingly and bellowed, "Charge!"

At Qin Jingsu's word, the horse beneath him surged forward, and his entire army advanced as one!

The two forces soon collided, the cacophony of battle cries and the clanging of steel resonating throughout the wilderness.

The Qin army fought with their characteristic valor, refusing to yield an inch. However, since the commencement of this grueling defensive struggle, each soldier's stamina had been severely depleted. Furthermore, throughout the relentless pursuit, Qin Jingsu's forces had been denied any respite, their nerves perpetually frayed.

To compound their woes, the enemy's numbers vastly outnumbered Qin Jingsu's own contingent.

"Your Highness, the situation is dire. Allow us to assist Your Highness the Crown Prince in breaking through!" cried the deputy general, Huayang. He then rallied soldiers to escort Qin Jingsu towards the flank. However, Qin Jingsu's attempts to break free from the Jin army's tightening noose proved futile time and again.

One by one, the valiant soldiers of Qin fell, succumbing to the crimson pool of their own blood.

Qin Jingsu understood with chilling certainty: his end had come.

Yet, even facing imminent death, his sword continued its relentless arc, again and again.

If he could take one more life, he would!

…

"Big Brother... Mother's belly is growing so large. Is Mother about to have the baby?" In the royal palace of the Qin Kingdom, five-year-old Qin Jingyuan looked up at his elder brother with a look of innocent curiosity.

"Mm, Mother should be giving birth very soon," eight-year-old Qin Jingsu replied with a smile, gently ruffling his younger brother's hair. "Jingyuan, make a guess – will it be a little brother or a little sister this time?"

"A sister!" Qin Jingyuan declared, his response immediate and without a hint of doubt.

"Why are you so certain, Jingyuan?" Qin Jingsu inquired with a warm smile.

"Because I want a little sister!" Qin Jingyuan exclaimed, his voice filled with anticipation!

"Hahaha, I want a little sister too," Qin Jingsu chuckled, playfully pinching his brother's cheek. "Then, when our sister arrives, we'll look after her together."

"Okay, Big Brother!"

The year following their sister's birth, Qin Jingsu and his second brother engaged in a spirited bout of sparring in the palace's rear courtyard.

Qin Jingsu deliberately held back his true cultivation level, fighting his brother to a standstill and subtly feeding him openings. Meanwhile, their two-year-old sister squatted nearby, observing the scene with wide-eyed fascination, a trickle of drool escaping the corner of her mouth.

After roughly the time it takes two sticks of incense to burn, a defeated Qin Jingyuan found himself being playfully ridden around like a horse by Qin Siyao herself. The three siblings frolicked for an extended period until the thoroughly exhausted Qin Jingyuan finally collapsed onto the soft grass.

Qin Siyao, mimicking her elder brothers, also lay down beside him.

Qin Jingsu took a seat next to his younger sister.

"Big Brother, lately, some people have been mentioning the 'Crown Prince position' to me. Is this position truly that significant?" Qin Jingyuan, having regained some breath, turned to his elder brother with a questioning gaze.

Hearing his second brother's curious inquiry, Qin Jingsu paused for a moment. He then reached over his little sister, stroking Qin Jingyuan's head. A fleeting glint of killing intent flashed in his eyes, but he maintained a smile as he asked, "Jingyuan, who has been speaking to you about this?"

"My wet nurse," Qin Jingyuan replied truthfully. "Just a short while ago, she told me I possess exceptional innate talent. She mentioned that despite my youth, the Qin Kingdom has no strict rule prioritizing the eldest child, and that I could indeed become the Crown Prince in the future."

"I see." Qin Jingsu retracted his hand, a shake of his head following.

"This position of Crown Prince, well, one could deem it significant, or one could deem it insignificant. Should you ascend to this role, you would be tethered like Father Emperor, buried in documents daily, utterly devoid of freedom. You would be compelled to plot and scheme, perpetually apprehensive, shouldering an immense burden."

"Big brother, how heavy could it possibly be?" Qin Jingyuan posed the question once more. Even the two-year-old sister beside them widened her eyes, observing her elder brother with curiosity, though Qin Siyao grasped little of the conversation.

"The weight of it..." Qin Jingsu propped himself up, gazing at the vast azure expanse above.

"This weight signifies countless millions of common folk, their gazes fixed upon you, ardently anticipating your every utterance..."

…

"Father Emperor, you summoned your son?" Within the hallowed halls of the imperial study, Qin Jingsu offered a respectful bow.

"Mm." The sovereign of the Qin Kingdom inclined his head, setting aside the memorial he held, and turned his gaze upon his son. "I've been informed that you presented a sum of money to Jingyuan's wet nurse, subsequently dismissing her from the palace?"

"Indeed, Father Emperor," Qin Jingsu affirmed.

"And the reason?"

"That individual harbored ill intentions. Driven by personal ambition, she dared to discuss matters of the Crown Prince with Jingyuan. Therefore, your son acted to expel her," Qin Jingsu stated with unvarnished truth.

"A mere wet nurse presuming to broach such topics with Jingyuan, her heart indeed warrants chastisement." The ruler of the Qin Kingdom concurred with Qin Jingsu's judgment.

"However, Jingsu, Father implores you, what are your sentiments regarding the Crown Prince position?"

"..." A contemplative silence ensued before Qin Jingsu bowed once more.

"The role of Crown Prince can solely be bestowed by Father Emperor. How would your son dare to harbor aspirations otherwise?"

"You, oh, you... sigh..." The Qin Kingdom's ruler extended a finger, pointing towards his son, a deep sigh escaping him. "Jingsu, at such a tender age, your intellect and discernment are already profound. At times, I am truly uncertain whether to weep or to laugh..."

"But you are my son. How could I possibly be unaware of your inner thoughts?"

The Qin Kingdom's ruler shook his head.

"You possess both talent and capability, yet your spirit yearns for freedom, and you hold power and status too lightly. You are unlike the typical members of the imperial family. To you, this imperial throne, whether attained or forgone, what palpable difference does it truly make? Yet, Jingsu, many circumstances transcend personal desire and cannot be evaded simply by wishing them away. In this existence, numerous forces lie beyond individual command. Do you comprehend my meaning?"

"Your son... understands..." Qin Jingsu nodded.

"No, you do not truly grasp it." The Qin Kingdom's ruler reiterated his disbelief with a shake of his head. "Never mind, let it be. Go now and contemplate it thoroughly."

"Yes, Father Emperor..."

Qin Jingsu bowed and was poised to depart when the Qin Kingdom's ruler's voice halted him. "Ah, Jingsu."

"Does Father Emperor have further directives?" Qin Jingsu inquired.

"It is nothing substantial, merely a reminder that when undertaking matters, one must act with absolute decisiveness and completeness. Avoid faltering with misplaced compassion." The Qin Kingdom's ruler continued his perusal of memorials as he spoke, "The matter of Jingyuan's wet nurse has been concluded with due finality. Bear this lesson in mind for the future."

Qin Jingsu's lips parted slightly, his eyes flickering with a subtle tremor. Ultimately, he sealed his mouth, bowed in deference, and responded, "Yes, Father Emperor..."

…

When Qin Jingyuan reached the age of sixteen and Qin Jingsu nineteen, the ruler of the Qin Kingdom summoned the fraternal pair to the imperial study.

Upon exiting the imperial study, Qin Jingyuan exclaimed with evident delight to his elder brother, "Big brother, Father Emperor has granted us permission to establish our own manors. From this day forth, we two must engage in earnest competition. I shall certainly not be outmatched by big brother. If big brother falters then, please do not hold your second brother responsible."

Observing his younger brother's jubilant countenance, Qin Jingsu offered a gentle smile and nodded, "Very well, then big brother shall endeavor... to do his utmost."

…

The day subsequent to Xiao Mo's triumphant obliteration of the Zhei Kingdom and his victorious return, a courtier presented himself at the First Prince's residence. Bowing respectfully, he addressed the First Prince, "Your Highness, the Second Prince has extended an invitation for a banquet to the Frost Prince. The Frost Prince has already accompanied the Third Princess to the appointed venue."

"Mm." Qin Jingsu acknowledged with a nod. "I am aware."

The attendant hesitated briefly but spoke nonetheless, "Your Highness, the Second Prince's actions are aimed at winning over the Frost Prince. The Frost Prince was exceptionally promoted by His Majesty and granted a princely title solely for the battle that annihilated the Zhei Kingdom. It's evident to anyone with discernment that His Majesty intends to make the Frost Prince a trusted confidant. Furthermore, even the Flame Prince constantly praises the Frost Prince's capabilities. If the Frost Prince is truly swayed by the Second Prince, then this..."

"I am aware. I have my own judgment on this matter. You may withdraw for now," Qin Jingsu stated calmly.

The attendant wished to voice more concerns, but observing the First Prince's composed demeanor, he ultimately relented, merely responding, "Understood, Your Highness..."

"Ah, yes." Just as the attendant was about to depart the study, Qin Jingsu looked up. "Prepare a carriage, and bring forth that snow-treading horse with its fine appearance."

The attendant's understanding of the First Prince's intent was immediate, and he replied with a pleased expression, "Yes! Your Highness!"

After the attendant had gone, Qin Jingsu rose, walked to the doorway, let out a sigh, and addressed the night air, "Second brother, for that position, you would even use third sister to win over Xiao Mo? Is this truly your original intention? Third sister is innocent, yet she is not foolish. She trusts you so deeply because you are her brother..."

…

Approximately ten years later, Qin Jingsu strode into the imperial study one day and bowed deeply to his Father Emperor, his tone conveying suppressed anger, "Your son Jingsu pays his respects to Father Emperor!"

"What is it? You seem so urgent and anxious, and your voice carries much anger," the ruler of the Qin Kingdom remarked slowly, engrossed in the book he was reading.

"Your son has a matter he wishes to consult Father Emperor about," Qin Jingsu replied respectfully.

Only then did the Qin Kingdom's ruler lift his head and cast a glance at his son, "Speak."

"Your son has heard that my second brother intends to form a marriage alliance with the Jin Kingdom. This matter is of great importance. I implore Father Emperor to reconsider!" Qin Jingsu bowed even lower.

The Qin Kingdom's ruler raised his head, observed his son, and knitted his brows, "Explain your reasons."

"Firstly, over these past years, the Jin Kingdom has pursued a strategy of aligning with distant states while attacking neighbors, continuously expanding its territory. The Jin King's ruthless ambition is known throughout the world. Secondly, the Jin King cherishes his eldest daughter dearly, and the Jin Kingdom has experienced frequent conflicts with our Qin Kingdom in recent years. This sudden desire for a marriage alliance, when circumstances are unusual, suggests ulterior motives."

"What you say holds merit." The Qin Kingdom's ruler nodded. "However, regarding this marriage, I also consulted Jingyuan, and Jingyuan himself has agreed."

"..." Qin Jingsu furrowed his brow. "I will go persuade second brother."

"There is no need."

The Qin Kingdom's ruler shook his head.

"You are overthinking this. It is the Jin Kingdom's princess who is marrying out, not my son marrying into their family. Currently, both the Jin Kingdom and the Qin Kingdom require time. Establishing a Qin-Jin alliance is the most advantageous course of action. Even if it ultimately fails, Jingyuan will merely have gained a wife, with no significant loss. In any case, you are not to concern yourself with this matter, nor can you. Focus on your own duties. You are dismissed."

"Father Emperor..."

"Dismissed!"

"Yes, Father Emperor..."

…

"Your Highness the Crown Prince! The King of Jing has committed treason!" As Qin Jingsu was occupied with governmental affairs, an attendant burst into his study, shouting the news.

"What did you say? Who has betrayed us?" Qin Jingsu stood there, momentarily stunned.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince! The Second Prince has committed treason! Lu Province has already fallen!" the attendant reiterated.

Beyond Huaishan Pass, after Qin Jingsu had successfully defended the city for four months, he appeared visibly fatigued, yet the tide of the battle was turning in their favor. A crucial turning point was approaching.

As long as he maintained their defenses, in at most two more months, the Jin army's morale, eroded by prolonged, unsuccessful assaults, would inevitably plummet to its lowest point. At that juncture, he could initiate a decisive counterattack!

However, it was precisely at this moment that the imperial capital dispatched a letter to Qin Jingsu, accompanied by several million medicinal pills. The dispatch contained only a few succinct sentences:

"These pills can neutralize the miasma of the Black Beast Forest for five hours. You should swiftly set an ambush in the Black Beast Forest valley and await the arrival of the Jin army. Jingyuan will then sever their rear! Remember! Do not let Jingyuan's painstaking plan go to waste!"

Upon perusing the concise missive, Qin Jingsu felt a surge of happiness, relieved that his brother had remained loyal. Yet, this relief was tinged with the grim understanding that by acting in such a manner, Jingyuan faced a nine-in-ten probability of perishing.

Following Xiao Mo's triumphant return to the capital alongside Qin Jingsu and the others, the Qin Kingdom's sovereign bestowed his rewards. Despite this, Qin Jingsu did not depart the imperial palace immediately.

He forcibly quelled the burgeoning rage within his heart and confronted his Father Emperor, inquiring, "Father Emperor, concerning Jingyuan's predicament, were you privy to this matter from the outset?"

"Indeed," the Qin Kingdom's ruler responded with unvarnished honesty.

Qin Jingsu inhaled deeply, then articulated, "Could it be that in your heart, Father, anything is deemed disposable for the sake of the Qin Kingdom's supremacy? This includes your own sons!"

"Precisely!"

The Qin Kingdom's sovereign met his son's gaze directly.

"For the sake of my Great Qin's dominance, all can be sacrificed! If soldiers on the battlefield are expected to die, why should Jingyuan be spared?! Even I myself, why should I be exempt? Is it merely because he is my flesh and blood?! Nay! It is precisely because he is my son that he must perish with even greater significance!"

Qin Jingsu's fists clenched so tightly that his fingernails dug into his flesh.

Rising, the Qin Kingdom's ruler approached his son and placed a hand on his shoulder, stating, "Jingsu, your compassion is commendable. However, the heart of a ruler cannot afford such kindness."

…

"Not bad, third sister's culinary prowess has advanced once more." On the eve of the expedition, the First Prince frequented the Frost Prince's manor, ostensibly to share a meal. However, as Xiao Mo was occupied with external affairs, the repast became a private affair between the two siblings.

"After dedicating so much time to cooking, it would be remiss if my skills did not show some improvement," Qin Siyao replied with a gentle smile. Yet, a flicker of melancholy soon crossed the young lady's features as she lowered her head, a shadow of loss momentarily clouding her eyes. "It is merely a regret that second brother will never again taste the dishes I prepare."

"..." Upon hearing his sister's somber words, Qin Jingsu also bowed his head.

"Pay no mind to my ramblings," Qin Siyao quickly averted her gaze, lifting her wine goblet. With a forced smile, she declared, "Siyao offers a toast for eldest brother to cleave through enemy lines, vanquish foes, and return victorious ere long!"

"Then I shall gladly accept your auspicious words," Qin Jingsu responded, raising his goblet to meet his third sister's.

"Third sister, eldest brother is contemplating, what if, what if eldest brother does not return..."

"There is no 'what if'," Qin Siyao asserted, her fingers tightening on her sleeve as she fixed her brother with a serious look. "Eldest brother is destined to return!"

Qin Jingsu's expression faltered for a beat before he offered a smile. "Very well. Then eldest brother... shall undoubtedly... return..."

…

On the expansive, albeit modest, plains, the carnage raged unabated.

As the soldiers surrounding him fell, one by one, Qin Jingsu found himself increasingly isolated, until at last, he stood as the sole survivor amidst the chaos.

The retainer from the Immortal realm's palace, tasked with safeguarding Qin Jingsu's progress, found himself besieged by two cultivators of the Immortal realm and three of the Jade Simplicity realm. Already wounded, he was forced to retreat.

Qin Jingsu had never harbored extravagant expectations regarding such palace retainers.

He had lost count of the countless times he had swung his sword, the innumerable lives he had extinguished.

All he was aware of was the near depletion of his spiritual power, the raw wound on his tiger's mouth from gripping his longsword, and the uncontrollable tremors in his hands born from sheer exhaustion.

The final soldier of the Qin Kingdom succumbed before Qin Jingsu. Then, like an overwhelming tide, the Jin Kingdom's soldiers, brandishing their weapons, began to encircle him.

"Hah..."

Qin Jingsu tilted his head upwards, his gaze fixing upon the serene, white clouds drifting effortlessly across the sky above.

Within his fading vision, the visages of his Father Emperor, Mother Empress, his second brother, and his third sister materialized involuntarily.

"Father Emperor, Mother Empress, your son has failed in his filial duty, compelling you, his aged parents, to witness his demise."

"Second brother, eldest brother is now coming to join you..."

"Third sister, I am deeply sorry. Eldest brother cannot uphold the solemn promise made to you. From this moment forth, I can no longer be your protector. You will face numerous trials and be compelled to mature swiftly. Life will undoubtedly become arduous for you... But rest assured, Xiao Mo is a man of good character. He will provide="text" content="sta