Tushan Jing and Xiao Yao, here's to a Happily Ever After

Chapter  8  It’s So Late, Why Have You Not Returned

I have updated my originalist  see page 349

 Winny Aye:

am really happy to read Xiao Liu and Shi Qi tender moments again. Jing was very happy to be her Ye Shi Qi again. Even though they were in chao situation, he was happy. Xiao Liu might have thought Jing would not follow her. But his being fine with helping her escape and being with her by all himself had expanded her wanting him even more. In other words, their bonds just got stronger.
I really like this metaphor of her looking at the stars. Stars could be metaphor of "Stars turn on as the day turn to night". The way I understand it is when the dark times come there will be little stars to see the light. Stars metaphor could be "something written in stars", meaning destiny is already written, a force of nature we can't avoid,  and something we could not change.Stars can be metaphor for "Star Crossed Lovers" which is Romeo and Juliet.
The reference for Stars Metaphors
https://symbolismandmetaphor.com/star-metaphors-idioms/

Beautifull text winny <3

 Symbolika1:

Due to  XL alliance, he is the best option for Xiao Liu escape  and  also his army base could provide him great hiding place.  since he had not had contact with XL for a while he decides Jing is the only option left for him to escape. As We can see `Xiao Liu is again thinking of  using Jing despite having screamed  at him earlier on the leave him be, to stop bothering him.  It seems like Fate has plan for them 2 to meet before Xiao Liu leaves  and disappears completely from Jing's live as he planned to do.

Fate, destiny , and writer's choice.

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Overview of Tones:

• Tension: The political tensions between Zhuan Xu and Xiao Liu contribute to an overall tone of tension. The escape plans and the need for secrecy amplify this suspenseful atmosphere.

• Emotional Depth: Amid the turmoil, there are moments of emotional depth, especially in the expressions of loyalty, love, and the deepening connection between characters. These moments add a layer of warmth to the narrative.

• Symbolic Optimism: The introduction of symbols like the wind chime and the metaphor of stars brings tones of optimism and hope, even in the face of political challenges. These symbols suggest the potential for healing and resolution.

• Silent Understanding: The silent gestures, such as Xiao Liu leaning on Shi Qi's shoulder, contribute to a tone of silent understanding and unspoken connection. 

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+ Drama cover ep.14 contribute to let us know what are Xiao Liu's feelings for Jing:

1. Fear of Emotional Entanglement:

   • Xiao Liu's testing of Shi Qi could stem from a fear of emotional entanglement. He might be afraid of forming deep emotional connections, especially considering the circumstances of his life and the potential dangers associated with his identity.

2. Reluctance to Confront Feelings:

   • By admitting to testing Shi Qi, Xiao Liu might be revealing a reluctance to confront his own feelings. This could indicate that he is struggling with internal conflicts, possibly arising from past experiences or traumas that make him hesitant to embrace emotional vulnerability.

3. Protection Mechanism:

   • Testing Shi Qi could be seen as a protective mechanism employed by Xiao Liu. If he can create distance or discourage Shi Qi from pursuing a closer relationship, Xiao Liu might believe he can shield himself from potential emotional pain or complications.

4. Deep Feelings and Longing:

   • Ironically, the act of testing Shi Qi could be an indication of deep feelings on Xiao Liu's part. The fear of attachment and longing in his heart, as previously explored in the text, might be driving these actions. Xiao Liu's internal struggle could be rooted in the conflict between his desire for connection and his fear of the associated vulnerabilities.

5. Character Growth and Evolution:

   • This revelation sets the stage for character growth. Xiao Liu's acknowledgment of his testing behavior opens the door for potential self-reflection and development. It creates opportunities for Xiao Liu to confront his fears, understand the true nature of his feelings, and possibly move towards a more open and authentic connection with Shi Qi.

In summary, Xiao Liu admits to testing Shi Qi as portrayed in the drama, it say outloud how  deep is the emotional turmoil within Xiao Liu. We already knew that some of his actions may be driven by a fear of attachment and a reluctance to confront his own feelings. However, this revelation also creates opportunities for self-discovery, and  for a more profound connection between Xiao Liu and Shi Qi as the story unfolds. Xiao Liu admit to himself that he have feelings for Yeshiqi. It's a huge step foward! :).

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As Xiao Liu caresses Shi Qi's hair while admitting that he tested him, it adds a layer of physical intimacy to the emotional revelation. Here's an exploration of this gesture:

1. Tender Gesture Amidst Emotional Revelation:

   • The act of caressing Shi Qi's hair while admitting to testing him adds a tender and intimate dimension to the conversation. Xiao Liu's touch is like  a non-verbal expression of care and affection, contrasting with his  testing harsh words he spoke to him.
2. Seeking Comfort and Connection:
   • Xiao Liu's gesture may convey a subconscious desire for comfort and connection. In the midst of revealing his inner conflicts and fears, the physical touch might be an instinctual way for Xiao Liu to seek solace and reassurance, both for himself and for Shi Qi.
3. Vulnerability and Openness:

• The act of caressing someone's hair is often associated with vulnerability and openness. Xiao Liu, who might have been guarded or reserved in expressing his emotions, is momentarily allowing himself to be vulnerable. This physical gesture can symbolize a moment of emotional nakedness and authenticity.

             4.Symbolic Sign of Affection:

• Hair caressing is a symbolic sign of affection and tenderness. It could indicate that, despite Xiao Liu's testing and reservations, there is a genuine fondness and affection for Shi Qi. The physical touch  signify a connection that goes beyond words or tests.

           5.Contrast with Verbal Expression:

• The contrast between Xiao Liu's verbal admission and his physical gesture adds depth to his character. It reveals a multi-faceted approach to communication, where words alone may not fully convey the complexity of emotions. The caress serves as a silent apology or reassurance, a way of saying, "Despite my fears, there is genuine affection between us."

                6.Foreshadowing of Deeper Connection:

• This intimate moment could foreshadow a deeper connection between Xiao Liu and Shi Qi in the narrative. It sets the stage for potential growth in their relationship, as Xiao Liu begins to confront his fears and Shi Qi becomes a source of comfort and understanding.

In summary, if Xiao Liu caresses Shi Qi's hair while admitting to testing him, it enhances the emotional and intimate aspects of their relationship. This physical gesture becomes a poignant expression of vulnerability, affection, and the potential for a profound connection between them. Xiao Liu caress Yeshiqi's hair, but she also caress her own desires to let go on further and free, her own feelings toward him.

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@Symbolika1  I am not yet at that part  lol.  It will come

 I cannot yet jump to her  reason of testing Jing  until I get there lol. 

 I am never late. look

@peng-peng

 We see Xiao Liu thinking about why he tested Jin  using this cruel method.  I am glad that he admitted that the method was indeed cruel. As he explained,  it is was in oder to cut the thread of longing in his heart.  It is important to note that the thread of longing  in his heart is only mentioned in relation to Jing. Xiao Liu has NEVER related his  thread of longing in his heart  to Xiang Liu nor Xuan. Only to Jing.   I love  how  Jing's acceptance to help him without asking  Why, has expanded  the longing in Xiao Liu's heart. Xiao Liu should have known that Jing would have helped him without any question or conditions after all he did say in chapter 2  "
“No matter what reason, there won’t be a second time when you need me but can’t find me.

Yes. This kind of cruel method in testing, will be only for Jing though. Because she was saying herself he won't do. So she could cut everything out. Most of the time, people mostly revolve thoughts on themselves. The fact is I think she never wanted to believe Jing. But deep down I think, in my personal opinion, she wanted him to do this for her. 

@peng-peng 

I know she has abandonment issue , but here she is the one doing the abandonment. She  who planned to   abandon  everything. and every one long  before  Grand Emperor's order.

Actually I am not sure when she started to think so leaving. But she had this lonely feeling that there won't be anyone with her till the end. Before her Hui Shui family would be gone before her. And I also think that she felt like she was not needed at Hui Shui anymore because Tian Er was doing well.  And everyone was on their own. Besides, Jing was on his own too (tied to his family). I think Xiao Liu was sort bored, out of place, lonely and want to cut her longing for Jing. So she decided to leave for somewhere to explore the world again.