"Mother, I have studied diligently under your care for years. This year's Autumn Examination is my chance to prove myself. Please grant your son the surname Liu!"
Zi Mu's voice was firm yet gentle as he solemnly kowtowed to Liu Wan.
Liu Wan's eyes grew slightly damp.
She looked at Zi Xing.
Zi Xing was already eight. Though still round-cheeked and adorable, much of the confusion and childishness had faded from his face.
In their place were resolve and an unyielding spirit!
With a solemn expression, Zi Xing told her, "Mother, I'm not as good at studying as my brother, but I love practicing martial arts. Under Master's guidance, I've made some progress. What I think is, even if I can't enter official service through the Imperial Examination..."
"I can still be like my younger maternal uncle and work at the Government Office, arrest criminals, and safeguard the people's lives! Or I can be like Master and go to war to defend our homes and country. Whatever path I choose, I can become a hero!"
"Mother, becoming a hero depends on me alone, not on having the surname Xia!"
Zi Xing's words rang out with conviction, striking heavily against Liu Wan's heart.
Liu Wan was a little stunned. The two children before her had both grown up.
She smiled with relief, then said, "I agree. But you will always be my children, and you must have somewhere to belong."
"Tomorrow, I will write to the Liu Family's Clan Elders and ask them to choose an auspicious day to enter your names into the Liu Family's Clan Genealogy!"
At those words...
Liu Zi Mu and Liu Zi Xing both froze, delighted surprise shining in their eyes.
They had never dared hope that they could enter the Liu Family's Clan Genealogy!
Liu