This official is so weak

Ning Rushen was stunned: “Is this something I should be hearing?”oWkuReqAPDdvqsSaKBpDDFVEHLUykw

GSSPZMsEwGBnPcr

He glanced at Li Wuting’s expression, “If I listen, can I still leave here breathing?”WZBXODtvqzDiwhtoSRqzdQeoCDaMFy

FWMjXZjtzltpcMa

Li Wuting replied warmly, “Ning-qing can even leave singing mountain songs.”saDSsvDKyNxjOlpLCIdhdgVKlHvXzu

KszuxLTSuXFQXpt

Ning Rushen’s curiosity was immediately piqued. After pondering for two seconds, he couldn’t resist:DkjEcBBWYZxQxyOGGQWkdxMPsPKYoX

nPiKSRjeDsmhzzt

Li Wuting gave him a glance, then waved the palace attendants outside to stand guard.MUyyDydSJqxYXaoOYDaSfwfGWMXXpf

WriJgWHwJedDnKu

Ning Rushen, both nervous and expectant, kept his eyes on Li Wuting, only to see him walk over and hand him a bow:habSqxXNQWMyVTfmdYJmkpEqLSKzrR

zpeFZGoQXDpZSgG

Isn’t he supposed to tell him about the criticized sign?mGtZkPEqNipxaaqBnMWinvLGSmaySh

jkBNfTSOFbZwioQ

Ning Rushen met Li Wuting’s signaling gaze, swallowed his words, took the bow, and said, “Yes.”eTnZyLIHxZbMjRUEvDKIkxoXsMGgaI

ZcUsRSQpgKkqZxR

He hadn’t practiced in a long time and was a bit rusty.bUVCOvlIAGHkdYbHyCwxujkzgzqbae

ZganjLmlkrxrgiz

With one arm, he drew the bow and aimed at the target in front, chest open and back straight, his waist tightened by the golden flower belt.DfcwhxjmAKvGzyLHdmCyvgjbiuXjSY

NrRQDUhJgjmtwEO

“Why did you forget again?”GevwNTymGagywEGeQaenAwxodbVspl

XBFSeeoeWKfrKlA

Li Wuting stood behind him, his hand pausing slightly, “Can you handle it?”bxNtoTYSYcwvOXNznaELPLXeJBMbYF

luYBoTTkKhImSzi

A deep voice came from behind his ear. Ning Rushen, while drawing the bow taut, endured the heat in his ear, “…I can.”gYYaQaTSjmTvSbFJdRsbUBIyfMlMsV

MuhKFXYZqewBYnz

That hand then began adjusting his shoulder and arm.mUXvrcFBlTREWGeHqkWsOjrPtvoGZc

BKraaeuPcYwtlNV

A tingling sensation lightly surged through his waist.fFVDUrivrlxrwUVhEJTuFOMsNfRYXF

olKMFHttNOHorzy

Ning Rushen’s mind was still on the previous matter: why hasn’t he said it yet? Does he need to prove his archery skills first?LJVxwHTeqHKrHEFUUXkGXgtrQvzvyq

inrPyGZXZXwHDQb

He guessed that might be what Li Wuting meant.CMWwmnZUFbhlAbDKchbRRtOVTYkYzG

royCAYFYKiMgEYV

So, he calmed down and focused intensely on aiming.TGkAKryaODsMgHWMVvuLuPVSrhIyaQ

pyXyhjsWOqSxAba

Ning Rushen put all his attention on the target, gradually ignoring his surroundings. Fully concentrated, he suddenly heard the person behind him speak in a low voice: “According to the sign…”qIoTsFvkNYjMTGzZbQITEqwgiZJlZE

KaysqSCNvNYfiSI

“I have no wife, no heir, a lonely star, a solitary dragon.”VEGdrjgKMoAqcTFJdOSiBPlARXaYwT

CZHekEGLGMSJZUr

The familiar shiver accompanied by the thunderous words directly pierced his eardrums.aJvMcbmGkSqMKaBGnHnuiKdMEpdAfo

wTxxFlwDARQhxrG

Ning Rushen’s heart shook, his eyes widened in an instant!jIikVwUstJtsoNVsMjBRGJAmPIQyyg

WaEGeBeYQchRISA

His fingertips loosened, whoosh—SaeUfagNHnhLIrXVKrLNqoXXejatkK

TKoDqxIkrzaSngl

The arrow shot out, directly hitting the bullseye.mxVjBoNWaHdhnmBwVVLqQWWbgadCKc

ynaWaHuuipMLnuU

The person behind him stepped back, Ning Rushen, holding the bow, turned dumbfoundedly to look at Li Wuting in front of him.lxseVZrIaCCCXIPWblSBLfXuOiTJro

YnKKtrfgqGhHkFc

Li Wuting glanced at the arrow in the target, commented:rgaKchrKhFYvTgnWEiwGRUbSVJxgPb

CSvfloRpjHtVUcU

“Not bad.”VLASPbUYuGTUGPArftTfpDeKiGioVn

dXGIWPEZjXMOyhx

“…”DlzfZkkRjZBHFpWrPHQXhvScpVXGVg

wTCLViDfUglMmTd

Not bad, my ass!!!BYNhHNmerfxvjUtDrMETgyIOVMEpiW

sbRqALqsYgTvGAV

Recalling those words, Ning Rushen almost wanted to shout at Li Wuting: doesn’t that mean—HvxGBvWEjiaCEHjPVRxUqarFQITswy

CfEZYDEQUkhxqBK

Lonely and desolate, dying alone.cBdjliylNGcpbUwPMaKjskRckmOVqC

ywACxidXyALdgIv

He couldn’t even bear to think of the last few words.rgefwNYCjHLpZWSJWbfpdBTRDLSfSt

FmTdRUuIivQpQIR

When he looked at Li Wuting, the latter’s expression was as usual, seemingly unbothered. He even reached out and closed his gaping mouth:OSllKlOHHJfGzhxGSYxRNhcgTRuMLu

oPuBCaBhqMBZFmf

“Ning-qing, with your mouth open so wide, are you preparing to sing mountain songs?”WbonqWqVcYZNwPBQcFIaAzPvtYKJxE

MvVIJcvAIgSJouU

“…”aZrEoojmSvGuXUpCAznuhBKvnKNFim

pisOmhfUcTXXFAg

Ning Rushen barely composed himself, “If Your Majesty wants to hear it.”YoQHCqUlnethrofREesAPrzYysdvGI

bPZwEwxSoYZbtyn

I’ll satisfy you, just say it.clLMSsTThvXdTvGYAcWXxkswBnVcYX

rRyTGUOaMBrbaZg

Li Wuting lowered his eyes, seemingly smiling, “Is Ning-qing pitying me?”rnIReLXzMlxZcMDnCrZGvOtnfAVqzQ

dNDXOnaSOrLCyDA

Ning Rushen thought, not really.nnzIqXirCzXtSFUlTALfIyroffkkhd

ivmmipjkYfWhQaA

He just thought that with how well Li Wuting treated him and his love for the people, he didn’t want him to have such a fate.iVSmrlXfySYOxHlDFqSRPjItzCLmMb

IIIfxPtqGxseuga

He downplayed it, “I just want to make some sounds that will make Your Majesty happy.”OfvCytejtuoqMijLpxPXLqufvPOevx

GCUhhUNdBPbZNzw

Li Wuting silently observed him for a moment.MgiYsphTtTBViDGEbsDdIPyxvBPZDz

tDqppobCkvDVWSG

A hand suddenly pressed on his head, warm, rough knuckles running through his black hair, lightly grazing his scalp, sending a tingling sensation.NUanBKluEaJLuDgPgyylmgvWzOAtzi

IDaURoZMkYoMLyp

Ning Rushen held his breath and looked up: ?HayJlaIPrYLLThLkmLTotuKugzdFDB

yXQXFwdhRqoLDvh

After two seconds, the hand shook his head a few times.pAWJnuCKhDRiGfgtWdPAqICzhLwumh

nQcstdWacqNWcTE

“???” Ning Rushen felt dizzy, “Your Majesty… what are you shaking?”afJEJKUquBrJyoAdJThurqcjuphkso

eSysVqxirkLOaBM

“Listening to the sound in Ning-qing’s head.”pSDfJDhKIqqoHzSxasPsRlhTeXzFud

rQeHXYvEuZzSHiV

Li Wuting shook, “It’s very hollow, I love it.”dtiIIzpnMvYFjKQVOsZzagNDFbCLgE

QBqajrCdPfBpFBy

“…”SjofvZylirUfNBnNleFXFTdzDLIxUO

LgxzbFOSTVIUBLg

Alright. You’re lonely, I’ll let you be.mPSDHudFbcApdWbGHXPJlRzyFRLEkh

gHHEDfqKjggvlrR

Ning Rushen, dizzy and disoriented, was being shaken when a cautious voice floated in from outside:xqEvFsMkCTCFcsNwkjCYyfLLLcyNSc

IFnAWrswgcVQxej

“Your Majesty, the left virtuous monk from the Sengrusi seeks an audience.”cKXQUgDcoDVQIdQQRWgZcYrqWjGCfK

engTHiMGdgrIbQC

Li Wuting’s hand withdrew, “Wait first.”rACagRcsEyASGWnOALxMzRkKFTXTFG

JwnawQvitTdHkBc

“Yes, Your Majesty.”WXMQSodbjVRQTKNYllkozTQyQbXmbO

ZpwIdCSaXFYWnpc

Ning Rushen took the opportunity to smooth down the ruffled hair on his head.MVpdCxWEqeqnjTlxKYfgTDHvTFzCoh

BsGRHALjUJOpDii

From above came a sudden remark, “Ning-qing needn’t worry for me, I’ve long accepted it.”yckgvgBrMWzyAqcQhGvwweTfOnYbVI

cAnytTItmmejxaH

He looked up.CTnKcVZLqumpuRlIJPuCYygZLoMxuE

RNqVTZGkQtJMUMj

Li Wuting’s cold and handsome face showed no trace of worry, still as unmovable as a mountain.PFGcLSobdGLnXgvglkHLCaaVtnZbxY

psGvqKbwMgWRYQv

Ning Rushen’s chaotic heart inexplicably calmed down. He felt a bit more at ease: so be it, if the heavens closed several doors for Li Wuting, they would surely open a window for him.wYkYBCnJcBkrwOpHEJGtEwZJhwMadZ

iAKjrZqRPYrXInc

He comforted, “Your Majesty will have other blessings.”UIVQXtaeWIzyVQhFMZAEAlSzkRyTBp

QlSYhrBcUmEptnJ

Li Wuting looked at him for a few seconds, without commenting, “You may go back.”YNAAbUmAUxPMEiGcTFITaXFBXGMAjB

ZscdhJzbjHUBDql

Ning Rushen was about to take his leave when he was called back.EjBvrdxADhPPIpOKdylKLEhzKHagmO

xBigDmyWzbyBcsJ

“Ning-qing,” Li Wuting said meaningfully, “This matter is significant; I have only told you.”WYlaahmTAcBFsSrTiGxYnmnWPJjsYM

RaPZZbenvWNzKDn

Ning Rushen understood, “I will take this secret to the grave.”lvnomZMMUdvtmuIZPApGNFlVDpLqaQ

sFUlwfoxCWuEVAQ

“…”CSijITdyNrefsnoRmtPEocVSaYCMGC

cWqdcsbirwVWKPI

Li Wuting waved him off lightly, “That’s not necessary.”pDxXqORUQwwKlQYbSPIWpQsmcKQaTg

fMYrRjwDrVAUWwV

·mQEmsDryCdaVIHralcvUExznYwIJcP

lbrEXRPJpMIJsCo

Amidst the intense preparations, the Heavenly Blessings Festival quickly arrived.YbiOBOybYRnEEnnFZjAcQlsixsDsLx

MXzhEgYJQthhFsF

On the sixth day of the sixth month, people would flip scriptures and air clothes.ULCNQMSlEvbhfCLQfsidCKmlBNbWDK

iUYGABBbARAhDKU

The new emperor, in his first year of ascension, chose to personally visit Shaojue Temple to ask for blessings.kgyemXpgzfqUiEjWVwPzKfNNLhvxfc

igjcEsbdnKURZuy

This event was unprecedented.aZAXIgUjIjLBeNRwPBCbTgBzHwleaJ

azcZneequARtSEx

Not only were there important officials and the emperor’s guards, but also Empress Dowager Shu and Prince Jing accompanied them.rzGScxsESdHqNRAdDJRKqNghApRJPk

HFBBiuOBtHbIxrC

Ning Rushen was summoned to join the procession.tBBfuHkejOZHMECTjVmUWmxqlpgxQO

TiuCQcqXqJquRcE

A grand procession arrived at the foot of Shaoguang Mountain.nhHnDKYtiAeGZNwvONkLGUUMcIgqrW

MKESmCmANVOexqX

Looking around, the entire mountain was covered in lush greenery, with golden spires peeking out, surrounded by clouds and mist, with the distant sound of bells.lwQnstZGVKHXQPyMMHLTzsdtIXuApx

EsiTOOFCJRprqUC

Li Wuting was the first to step down from the dragon chariot, walking up the path.eogYZGCcERfbTSFDTMQiIdswxaDhbK

KlHcEsOtuHZdpwc

Ning Rushen followed in the ranks of the officials, keeping a distance from Li Wuting at the front. As he watched the bright yellow figure from afar, the procession moved, and suddenly a head popped up beside him:sfyHoayRwPLCbGIxNiKdJDugpqZHJS

hIvpZoKPCCGmzyC

“Lord Ning, are you looking at my royal brother?”uovgeAyjHvufsDlbQepUbTEeWPMUSt

AdlDdXjruTLTfdd

“…”jKupGowWgytuzTHBXVHAtzrKRttsKW

iOgnQKAcwTkBwku

Ning Rushen looked down at Li Jingyu, who had squeezed in at some point, “Why are you here, Your Highness?”xHQLKGSZvEoSauTaRGMhKjFSHfDqvC

HawqSrRNuIHoMLf

Li Jingyu replied, “To chat with Lord Ning.”HhmovmodSBmiTvwVqVKQnbRAvybjXa

VnOaHGApUHnHhAL

Ning Rushen thought for a moment, “Alright.”ftQLUPCCbOwbyZbgYEbdkaCQMfBWwq

KHocXeXOaIEEMVt

The two continued climbing the mountain.iwGOTKFrnPQoVhUYSZJTpghkqySKec

ZnOktwBeyKKlkQw

Ning Rushen looked at the temple roof of Shaojue Temple and recalled what Li Wuting had revealed to him that day.IWCXfKrvqzykqHTFLWzKeoqpKKtxNA

epYqKavtokbEODB

He glanced at the short legs beside him: So, is Li Wuting planning to pass the throne to Jingyu?QpHXkjlQUTkIwRVAnaXgTWgfzmknqn

DHXqbmlyWGBZDCc

Li Jingyu was sharp, “What is Lord Ning looking at?”WbuhPHxLaKERJjoyzNeWKxBmkVfJYN

habqvlOEOABWWIA

Ning Rushen, slightly out of breath from the climb, subtly hinted, “Your Highness seems to have grown. Clearly, you have an upright posture and excellent bones… phew. In the future, you can shoulder more responsibilities for His Majesty…”DbAAFdUCqnrfUiAyrCeoSfOjoPjFEV

FWCWSbRvfzQwNhg

Before he finished, a hand supported him.EtNYpOtTOazdNpkLRGXcEHPHmfbsvA

EEJOvDOABNLsQMS

Li Jingyu looked at his pale and fragile face, “My royal brother might not need to, but I will first help Lord Ning.”zGwVqHdOxKvmVDhcWYsvxYdBoRAGMV

gVaCfqFIyfvcIvf

“…”aXHrEVAlUgiHZxqmRwoiqGgJWyDoGb

nGvAIMAnwlnPUij

Ning Rushen, “Thank you, Your Highness.”VenwaSkNniszkrnLVnozDBokpAahrM

iXjSCdebiKBoZrC

…MtEhYPhTXdCAHOoWdcSzVEoLQBNexz

llMfSayctKyKdYp

Half an hour later, they finally reached Shaojue Temple.QESOTCXwYBsSQTJWeqskLMQNniRwfh

dUarNnAjYHLrhln

The temple gate was ancient and majestic, tranquil and serene. Bathed in sunlight, it seemed to exude a shimmering golden glow.MJAfEGrGzaaoEmKiMAQfkpWthNrOxH

kDsKdYGExYCILcB

Ning Rushen entered the temple with the procession.bRcHWHgaIdVFmdrwQWfXIfUDBfKmkt

tJnCEkTPoifizEF

The temple was already prepared for their reception.ILIEfPmvAQyPGjNSmQBVmRrTEkgCxD

myoXKHlsNFvYOmh

A group of monks greeted them, led by the abbot in a golden-red kasaya, his face smiling:mSFqwsXIlRskcMUenvaOUQRkNyroOe

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“Your humble monk welcomes the Holy Emperor.”rveKiyPtdFwLaaqipPwcumzVaBMKuD

XzuKOcZAAHuKeEL

After a few rounds of formalities, they were led into the hall.vJfpOkXqByXCMdhxifPMSImzikRcdz

zqTxqaPpFBtGxZb

The hall was bright, the golden Buddha statues imposing.glWSvnQCUXcbILrHmvKozFUGKFuFFW

BeHlpbkrhHZdEhW

After a series of elaborate rituals, Ning Rushen followed the chanting and bell ringing, bowing a few times, and the blessing ceremony was over.PhjOnSshUbpvPXxpuHlFOuVIaVkcox

BdHjiONWjVFpWoE

The remaining time was for individuals to light incense and candles.KHcJxRaQQNnUnUyBzFYfZZLhWlAFQo

HhqdJTlnmEHZQbN

The crowd dispersed.IRJoOjEvZnokFJMKljzaUpAdBGxJcr

qEQpXIwzbCTVeic

Ning Rushen stood up, his gaze passing through the officials and monks, noticing Li Wuting standing not far away, opposite the kind-looking abbot. Their voices drifted over:TDAvSOegcldXuFfwWsobRMecHOEJai

XJFLEJaTRmgUnqZ

“Master Jingxi.”rQgnxzEkCtXLmaGjzRrMCUXhaonzHq

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“Your Majesty, long time no see.”abHduzDenPSYXaJoxbbubqScNwkijz

VRBcSPunsdMBfHK

With these words, Li Wuting’s expression slightly changed, but the surprise quickly vanished.ZIsCZjDmPyEFVQZVtRQvMCeALJvyEH

mJaCOshfJTTNFYs

Ning Rushen caught this from a distance:YFUSXzCTOLlviqwodDALgRbAIrKcMk

VcXFhATLyfJBZyg

What’s wrong? What’s the problem with “long time no see”?aPYAKNjCxqszeHJCeSLStxZlsalvZN

lNMlfbTtAmjJTmw

Isn’t it normal to see the master from time to time?JxcfokwYiMBxojZKuLIVVECjjMMKqE

LmHLBxIPeGNLAbi

The two seemed to exchange a few more words before Master Jingxi made a gesture to invite, and Li Wuting stepped away.GVREQaKLAMvaGCgsoynmNnyAsrOkgd

SEftrlSPMNzYpfE

Their figures soon disappeared behind the hall.BWNaUpGawAwyygJPGLsrnzRsaqVAex

xxFGyAkIJPYOwfJ

Ning Rushen stood still, his gaze not yet withdrawn.SiNyACTNOuzcSZjFNyzyhEnrXUlXbe

aVvKapTaKyuVucU

At this moment, his sleeve was tugged.ukgcjDLooWNXCSqKpqKZurwixevtdi

xwIZadJnQLMbSwd

Li Jingyu looked up at him, “Lord Ning, are you secretly watching my royal brother again?”qFbekNfTfXdnMTEGsBIWxJnAnHNAMg

cTiLhAJWyoYPJLm

Ning Rushen looked down: …What do you mean by secretly watching?zMOVHjHdwGSlGRXgyyTdYLGvQcjfNk

NbUuAggPLYLMTrh

He’s not like Prince Xuan, climbing walls everywhere.flSAzJuoVQewCHlYhERAsLtLbeFkke

rdRaBWqGuNBHXoQ

He skipped the topic, “Does Your Highness need something?”iKfJXYPttEMNScCGusbXfVTTsXucIS

QtaCUzzexgMLAuH

Li Jingyu said, “My royal brother and Empress Dowager Shu have gone to the back, I want to make a wish and light a candle. Would Lord Ning join me?”FxZWTiUhgQePCzbOyQcEyxBweHXFti

HTqtcXKTnQmOGmG

Ning Rushen nodded, “Let’s go.”eMESrmcLICsXnIuvxTcjuMFKhRkHDr

pqpzMuJrLrEdYFS

“Mm.” Li Jingyu happily clung to him.zOqXfivruydWaHPHUfUWFVcvebPhGC

xgbzDfHyZzulYbW

·ScJLAqnbaJKBfNvNfhOTodIVccwokz

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Ning Rushen initially thought there were only a few places to make wishes and light incense.RRhLQmszDlYgNAqbdgsbVsdqsFAchV

VPJCIYNNfaaMBmF

Unexpectedly, following Li Jingyu’s twists and turns, they ended up in a secluded courtyard deep within the temple.trSWOYtoGsaWaBftirWTltPandDqsC

DLYbmuTsOURLKTi

At the courtyard gate, a young monk greeted them, “Your Highness.”ZdklctSqExhDdELzsUyMimxdmnMXuS

lgipUOqhGrPBByS

Li Jingyu, familiar with the place, led Ning Rushen inside.ZMaQpSTMDwySqvSsXmpuINmJOvrvvk

cDWSvdzJygKpVAO

Ning Rushen looked around the courtyard, noticing the mottled yellow walls showing signs of age, with a towering bodhi tree in the corner.utcQgrkHqREIrXTygpyWpMYSrehXQh

LbYSlhxrVpEsabo

In front of the courtyard stood a Buddha statue, flanked by niches with lotus lamps.DBMbukhLuaHekhPOnfbRoquhCOmQyx

hhDrLoXNWrmiOpk

Before the Buddha statue was a bronze cauldron, filled with clear water, with a few delicate golden lotus lamps floating on the surface, each with a small flame.VXgHRPVLFBfGohJmkpltplseXqQzdR

UPuauUbfRMRsEno

Li Jingyu whispered to Ning Rushen, “These golden lamps are rare, only twenty-eight are issued each year. I secretly brought Lord Ning here, don’t tell the others.”vUULQDbcWFkhMCRaWaNhFMazECRTSq

IkHkAsSbCGxplZh

Ning Rushen nodded, “I won’t say a word.”jwcctVqptTDGgrUKfJbQABmEYkrXtd

zeIPSHYQvIZrqDG

The young monk brought the golden lamps for the two of them.HhniSaHfNxysXhqAbECXkKDcdrJxwd

mxSAHGLYNeKsVYR

Li Jingyu asked, “Lord Ning, have you thought about what blessings to pray for?”ZjtZnEGapOwlOzdPFhPDEVOveGQQSP

KZRqJNgjQKyjdpU

Ning Rushen paused.JykNBDzeZBEDcPGfqBNZFfQErwXkoC

giAztgOchYltvSM

In this world, he had no family or close ties, and his own life was relatively peaceful and satisfying, without any significant desires.CaEPfaIUuCgCvTHPOIFffJJfwBhQuw

NSKsvQhWbkesZcA

Except for wanting to gather money and food every day and retire early.KHXkrpOgAMFRdAHDwpnBQydYSLmmNu

BjYKkDUhtZPxDQj

He stared at the golden lotus lamp in his hand for a while, and Li Wuting, with his unfortunate fate, suddenly came to mind.AazMlfrihyEzlZkiWijKMyvMCQuOHx

CgvblMKgdGzDihy

Thinking of all those luxurious clothes and fine food provided…BvyIfvOPbQGjzHcYxWsqcDIFkyigwv

GVzxTIfriqPpndL

Ning Rushen felt a pang of conscience, “I will pray for His Majesty.”fPrvPUUFHiLKLSUslhzTwWQWHjIYpM

ylefIQWEeryXBNg

Li Jingyu’s eyes sparkled, “Oh…”FCkEixYIwhCOHHIkJLiVuNyxLxTklS

VUVSNbWBJeLyuQP

Ning Rushen turned his head, “And what about you, Your Highness?”vDzaouEUPHweaPGPOlRhEhQnRzNxzW

tJiltVyjyvzAgRB

Li Jingyu said, “My royal brother has protected me in many ways, but I have never been able to repay him. Therefore, naturally, I will pray for my royal brother.”JohwnyGGDTxFxAOSwfUllkEkgPGOaG

aCczXfIENgRgSIb

Ning Rushen seized the opportunity to give some advice, “Your Highness’s sentiment is rare. In the future… just doing what you can for His Majesty will suffice.”wwvkwnDINGhtuioGrWgSttEshmYyFG

tLymeLbAxrOGGxU

Li Jingyu thought deeply, “Lord Ning is right.”TvLtKcUrJYgjEhnUxWwHNljIbbzYRG

nFoKZbHRREIImrp

Ning Rushen said, “Let’s pray first.”sTqCCuERXVGISzgBqhnxQpBSGjZCbD

YzqqFLgNXFzmYUE

He placed the lotus lamp on the water surface and lit the wick.QycTuRqQzWPIeLuDRFFUCBlSclMruT

pDDATfBrtdQYcfE

Li Jingyu mimicked him, “Lighting a candle for my royal brother.”oJNeShowzyDvTHPCGYkPrbDIOSQtPT

nHmbsZGZGYwrvii

“…”zGZUzVpcaufxjWKhWKAksmBGjrFizz

aUKaDHEFHKSnayJ

Ning Rushen followed suit, “Lighting a candle for His Majesty.”mQizhAbSBwGYwQWBqNSUlCogdhyCyW

iwdXLtIRKGBjFic

They both clasped their hands together and closed their eyes, “Amitabha.”nzHEwXxdINSMHRgEqsUHTfmxrlxXhY

JXXuxlMseXIlXbQ

May Li Wuting be blessed with a good life and never be lonely.SZHlsXOebkCtCjYJDUEGSloGxWTToH

BKdMSUYjyjjvdgz

…yqlUcEGZdWnmVIfrTOEDuTysxWXSuZ

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Elsewhere, in the tranquil and serene Meditation Hall.RLoVAsWjVajJKesAzaZRkCkzyTSnaw

ABMPLFoBonzKUCk

Li Wuting, for whom two candles had been lit, was sitting opposite Master Jingxi, his clear and handsome face seemed contemplative.FirlZQpofcMVKlpHwUzsiymhrIJXyp

VGoJvbZhRPZvDqs

Master Jingxi smiled, “The last time I saw Your Majesty was also around this time.”AsdIWSfMxyVvHgSnMRsMaDTvrknJsw

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Li Wuting responded softly.xxzYnEvnTfqaxmUjoRkhNFuvlQJavW

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His thoughts drifted back fifteen years to the coronation ceremony of his previous life: it was on this day that he first met Master Jingxi.hOPxGUZdozUPZByXlVDKSfwYIXyHaQ

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He had received the fortune “No wife, no heirs, a lone dragon star.”HOPSJoGwEabPraFYedSQUtpHEiBAVn

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“Your Majesty’s state of mind has changed a lot since then.”KABMpHRZajQmesbxRetFqyBGDroGzW

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“With more experiences, naturally comes change.”KFmXADUGugEeYhvjdmsqlsUhhdcfaT

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Li Wuting’s long fingers tapped his knee.egRGJEkotZiOmSyHZoflqNAIbchgde

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In his previous life, his harem was empty for half his life. Even when courtiers urged him to take noble women, they couldn’t enter the palace for various reasons.fPpMzOOYxvLJaEYkTkACoTkxTfMgXp

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The old factions spread rumors, causing chaos in the court, which took him a lot of effort to settle.NhfhOqtBaPinUkKlxIzxpnzKmHacLF

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“Is it the same fortune this time?” Li Wuting asked.hcEgIULUgCpUysuPPXnGANPLAxSaFx

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“The same,” Master Jingxi nodded.ZkzsxaDwlzBYNpGWYgWlQPGkesgUNE

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Li Wuting indifferently curled his lips and stood up to leave, “Thank you, Master.”NzbHPqiGlBReVtkNaBpUVfipgvBELk

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He was about to exit the Meditation Hall when he heard from behind:VBiIViqwrvXRsOtKSYQPsqpbhOIwWB

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“It’s the same, but it’s just a fortune.”ovZmDvYDnKajdvRRloJRgDtucZsmTG

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Li Wuting’s figure suddenly froze.FPGaaEUXxQfqUEzLZLtJsRVuwYGrrx

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He turned to look at Master Jingxi sitting on the mat. In the quiet and serene meditation room, the latter’s smile remained unchanged. A slanting light fell through the window lattice, with dust floating in the air.dScOUzvVXyNwmOcnTdbbxFikRKqznK

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The fortune was the same, but too many things had already changed.EtYfjmpadsQhxDvdlwkdIANOQpAeNU

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Li Wuting felt a stir in his heart.XDCDyygaTnhvIDhXKjyKJXGRryLluy

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He quietly thanked the master again and left with big strides.vNIhBOcHnHvCaLeKPDjxbvOAuzZEpC

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·XxrQAqKIdHmUuShLVhDzRjeMlWowKV

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The emperor would stay at Shaojue Temple for two days and one night to pray for blessings.PIMjmhIPdGFCObGVIbZkXyrmszXjGM

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But not all officials had to stay overnight. By evening, most of the accompanying senior ministers had taken their leave.nVTQRVQXoXffhhpFGjwNSlaPgvbgxP

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Ning Rushen did not leave with them.QZiyudpIKZaaZRsWuTXuOkJxwkKAQK

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He inexplicably felt that he shouldn’t slip away first.oRKPMzmuUJiCoAcpEzTjQuncrQljED

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Also, he was somewhat exhausted: climbing up the mountain on foot had drained most of his energy, and he had spent the afternoon accompanying the energetic Jingyu.mHlACcfBkhbkenJbuRxcvTFDROhmhb

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After dinner, he returned to his assigned room.uQccYDFGygaDLCcRKmXdeIaaCTkTTX

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Ning Rushen found a young monk and asked him to bring a bucket of hot water.dHHyhKgNizrGweMkmLrbmaNFeMihsQ

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Then he closed the door, hung his clothes on a half-open screen, and comfortably immersed himself in the hot water.cipCwtFOmVKkaiaYaoAWLMrBDZqszr

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The slightly hot water quickly warmed his whole body.HaeaauZdvYhWzUGzSVmAQqUKdlBegZ

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His black hair spread freely in the water, steam rising, soothing his limbs and bones, dispelling the day’s fatigue.OKdphfmOovOdsSkzJbOcsLheBlqiuJ

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Ning Rushen hung himself on the edge of the bucket and closed his eyes.DOxbVqSwuqgDCNTwlAMHBhelFvzOjC

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In the overly comfortable water temperature, he quickly fell asleep.hgLzxEKuLiCyJPqTAHhBQvsCcTcigR

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…ZPDWzASIlnKndIZsnmkcwmwoVSUHOP

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Two quarters later.fFzdSttlmUqJUFOtbjBjPEWkSHVyLk

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The young monk, estimating the time, prepared to come and collect the bucket. When he reached the door, he saw it was tightly closed and there was no sound inside.KvjkjVgDeoLPRskoWiZETMtBKvmNfV

EcjzlzXGCdkxgXL

He knocked lightly, “Master Ning?”ExQwcyHsajzqEFOCuGaSVqBGIBxwcK

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The sound entered the room and mingled with Ning Rushen’s dreams. He slept soundly, without waking.gwaaTjsVNQgHohyUhdJSExSeNRqXmY

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The young monk called a few more times without response.YuJxKMKhDhKVUSACIxJjHTHbZyheyP

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Thinking of Ning Rushen’s frail appearance, he became worried. He wanted to go in and check but feared it would be inappropriate.eRNaTQImJiizRnXCJpgvbKvpwLdSXd

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Hesitating, he suddenly heard a childish voice ask:lLGaaSqVPsbnmMrMbLVvPTxEBbWibo

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“Little monk, is Lord Ning in this room?”FfrNOJsXagzMqGtbwUqzYitiTLffxg

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The young monk turned and saw Li Jingyu, quickly bowing, “He is in this room. But Master Ning requested bathwater earlier, and now there is no response. I am worried and unsure if I should call someone to check.”ZQuFzVDvClOgCJiUWQdKnZWnvnhgav

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Li Jingyu’s face changed, “Of course, call someone! I’ll go get them—”CpwMPytjdgRsZlJBUezjFBarDcncaE

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He turned and ran off.vHlalRHBUIJyePXwEKtFEOdvbJvuCV

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The young monk watched him run quickly, alarmed, “Your Highness, where are you going?”YmCsPNgwsNPRMjxkfBpnhGgAjQourL

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“To do what I can for my royal brother!”CupQcqKqfrfpQvigsroGiTKdlvXdRu

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“…”IGaGBsYFYRYWzmjmwQYIhOoZNZHROB

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For His Majesty? Isn’t it for Master Ning??ZzYSuQHsMQnBdIsuPhIfTqlpoOvTZI

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…LEveuJZrYtPVTGrLVSOJhUOIkskwDK

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In the meditation courtyard.JYjjzWgXlAbRrDAGgLvVhZNDnewGBK

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Li Wuting was sitting at a table reading scriptures.FIUghUOygZklwhYvFJhhPveFSUQOgh

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He had changed out of his dragon robe, his dark clothes setting off his jade-like fingers. His fingertips slid over the yellowed pages, pleasing to the eye.VVxyPlCsIeQWJqSWRutDAYsjPEZtrV

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De Quan was serving beside him, white smoke curling from the incense burner.mstjAtrTHyJRSTsQMUtwqBhISPXFyn

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In the quiet, they suddenly heard, “Royal brother!”JufwXVWBHhLQBRLctnkxrRYaGfNurd

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Li Wuting looked up to see Li Jingyu rush in like an arrow, clinging to his knees.PfhYGsfUyjVTdIiSqmnWlkMPkDtzSc

kAfRLMRWXJcLIDH

He frowned, “Why the panic?”lwSojuMJndCIDvFXeeFIQUnehQonXo

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“Lord Ning is soaking in water and not responding!”jCoTFJKKCpOXaYPKYwnGoNanCwhYoq

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Li Jingyu was anxious, “Royal brother, save him!!”AISJrsVrbEBgTmOrVvUlBqBQXjWUFC

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