Resurrected Empire

Bang! Bang! Bang!

In a secluded mountain valley, hidden amidst dense undergrowth and towering trees, the muffled sound of pounding echoed for over half an hour. Then, the grating wail of metal scraping against metal set one's teeth on edge. A wisp of white mist drifted upward from the forest, gliding over leaves that shimmered with a faint blue glow.

After another hour or so, voices emerged from the gloom.

"Renzhong, if you ever awaken, if you ever hear these words, do not worry. Your father and I lived a good life—a happy life. We even had a younger brother for you. He is thoughtful and gentle, and took care of us well. We enjoyed the fullness of family joy."

The speaker was an elderly man, his voice hoarse and steady, as if suppressing deep emotion.

"Yes, your father and I have no regrets in this life. Except for you... In any case, we hope you will not have any regrets either."

This time, the voice was that of an elderly woman, trembling with suppressed sobs.

The old man spoke again, "Remember this, Renzhong: in life, eight or nine things out of ten do not go as we wish. Since we cannot change them, we can only endure. Our greatest wish is for you to be happy—nothing more."

The old woman added, "Just remember, we have never once regretted what we've done. That is enough."

The old man: "Yes. We only want you to embrace a new life."

The old woman: "Since you're hearing this, it's a good sign. Let's not dwell on sorrow. We have littl