Chapter 17: A seed of Hope.

A Seed of Hope

As she returned home later that day, Yiling felt a flicker of hope growing in her chest. The land by the river would be a challenge, but it was also an opportunity. With crops, she could finally give her children the kind of stable future they deserved.

When she opened the door, Zhi and Yun'er rushed to her side, their faces lighting up with joy. "Mama! You're back!"

"Yes, and I have good news," Yiling said, kneeling to their level. "We're going to start farming soon. That means more food and maybe even some new clothes for my little ones."

The children cheered, their small arms wrapping around her in a warm embrace. For the first time in a long time, Yiling felt as though things were truly turning around.

But as the family settled in for dinner that night, the thought of the strange boy resurfaced in her mind. His words about the "forbidden ground" echoed faintly, accompanied by a whisper of unease.

Shaking her head, she focused on her children's laughter. The forest would stay in the forest. Her family's future lay in the fields.