If a Sealbearer family had no Sealbearer, it could hardly be called a Sealbearer family at all. The entire family would decline in the shortest time.
The Huang Family was the clearest example.
The Yan Family had looked down on the Huang Family, but now they had become just like them.
Yan Xiao Jing was clever, but the cleverer she was, the more clearly she understood how serious the consequences would be.
Qiuhan Qing's attitude toward Yan Xiao Jing had changed somewhat. He no longer fussed over her as he had before, and his tone had turned much stiffer. "Don't worry. Even if Senior Yan dies, our Qiuhan Family will still take care of you."
Yan Xiao Jing nodded. "Thank you, Brother Qiuhan."
Qiuhan Qing raised a hand and stroked Yan Xiao Jing's cheek, his gaze smug. He didn't care whether Yan Sheng lived or died. Having another Sealbearer would indeed benefit the Qiuhan Family, but they didn't absolutely need one. For now, he could enjoy this woman first. With that thought, he pulled Yan Xiao Jing into his arms and leaned in to kiss her.
Yan Xiao Jing was startled and hurriedly pushed Qiuhan Qing away. On guard, she said, "Brother Qiuhan, please show some respect."
Qiuhan Qing was displeased. "Xiao Jing, you're practically mine already. What are you afraid of?"
Yan Xiao Jing retreated several steps and stared at Qiuhan Qing. "Brother Qiuhan, I—I want to wait until we're formally betrothed before I, before I give myself to you."
Qiuhan Qing's tone turned harsh. "We don't know how long this war will last. There's no need to wait. From now on, you're my woman." As he spoke, he reached for Yan Xiao Jing.
Yan Xiao Jing's face turned deathly pale. If Yan Sheng were alive, she could be