This official is so weak

The celebration was held just before midnight at the end of the year.LztQigvYOFaNgzzaoPIqfxXYZSPBqB

vfNOlRiQMUoyuGk

The emperor and the officials ascended the city tower, welcoming the new year together with the people.yJUHjvUwYysOHgkdsyxrmwzIGchbYu

cOWhEKpxkXvSLbp

That night, the capital was brightly lit.CIUhJltHbipmzqhAUOzTOKpXWkoHgL

zbuvKoaCXclVmtv

Ning Rushen, along with the other officials, waited on the city tower before the celebration officially began.dEFSVdvvHdsMuvPtnRlaDYbOgHBmtL

HdhUmbaxDmrQWVd

Geng Yan squeezed next to him, “Are you well now?”tPsfhYbpZAOvBwCvJLoBKuilXOyuVn

gDgVYKnCdTxOyfi

Ning Rushen vaguely replied in the queue, “Almost.”NcMKSTWBkdEqcInZSlrJkvhhSOQELL

MnIbZLIVMDcGPjA

He had taken three days of “sick leave” and hadn’t attended court.owkUVPjkjwpnzPTWilLXYelirBOiIV

rScFsuoTjnsBATX

Although he had recovered by the fifth day as he had firmly claimed, he couldn’t perform the lion dance anymore.eVOGYImmaFADgVOidnfVBWXYHfmAFp

giAIyZgKRazGkwr

Especially when he recalled Li Wuting’s gaze when he said, “I can still do the lion dance”—TdtnuTFOzVpjvXSsUieIUypGNxHWRz

icyIszBOYyObbKD

He belatedly swallowed: Be cautious with words and actions.triUkSALZvgLeRlzPgGRowZncYuhcU

QSSIovdcQnjNoXi

Unaware of his thoughts, Geng Yan observed, “Well, your complexion does look quite good, as if you’ve been greatly nourished…”qLvKtGcwUvHbqOiehcrMWDZcGRsFDc

mmevLvBokCkvScR

Ning Rushen hurriedly stepped on his foot: This little dog…!LLvkkPzhJKrkFQMbligeDxMUewUOWQ

IJHLqwXWFNzQDHN

Geng Yan, “Ouch! What are you doing—”tLwALaMeGHfYeFvtMcskJZuwkcGqIu

BoQgvyhCAPjFDbD

Just as they were speaking, suddenly the sound of a bell music rang out.RvvFJHYHYqPbHKzdUsGTFgSCTBhNfm

CjVfnThaUQFodse

The bustling crowd immediately quieted down. Under the gaze of thousands, the emperor ascended the tower, and the officials bowed in unison:DqdBcIzqDqaOYbMYuokuVGhgQStBxT

aCaqnnqIiKDwzid

“Long live Your Majesty, long live, long live!”unzHZVdzZvyiHHBLPQhmbPYqGolUiL

GlMAfKtZebUGJHB

Below the city tower, the common people gathered to catch a glimpse of the emperor.DYlIzSoivrDjLHeqyAcTwSnWdNGSfm

wqzeLBXRLbfDlMM

Li Wuting, dressed in the bright yellow imperial robe, with a sacred and majestic countenance, ascended the city tower surrounded by palace guards and attendants.xhqmWTYFMNYAzYbAnrlAZuLycSXIwr

UkDTDBjYsPMVcrI

Ning Rushen also ascended the tower with the important ministers of the cabinet.iXBWVVyEjpnKRRSDfUHpeEgBkHEhHy

mgdyKeSPnyDWPYO

Once on the city tower, the crowd and the sea of lanterns below became even clearer. The ministers took their positions, and under the direction of the Minister of Rites, Guan Fan, the celebration finally began.scBsuVUfQXZvCXAQonysLDmjyyHmeW

yWpltxHtjbYatfV

This year’s celebration was as usual.gqjzySroKffFzeAzeALeenMnSHThke

sgYjlpHMkCEfdsv

After several rounds of ceremonial music and speeches, suddenly Guan Fan spoke:cWDqPQUWZdVZNAzlHaoTkJIqBFAvNH

EToRbTlgIaZoxRG

“Please invite Master Jing Xi to divine the new year and predict the nation’s fortune!”JbbKWQocBxnKpaCiAnxrIhxdCnoUvX

GkmbXGpiVwLxWmD

As soon as he finished speaking, there was a stir around:QeaVhkSZJBDDGbXBpFWABjwEkHiwUu

VEgqqKQUmdCLKys

“Is it Master Jing Xi from Shaojue Temple?”esnevKlCFXqzoXTmqxRYQqdJwnMRxQ

IgHfphARhnNfGth

“The master has never publicly divined on such an occasion before.”OWzPhaUkBNqSDKhevCMRdvpGUVhcCv

WPswHICDRszNLph

“Why this year…”oNkHDyMgGVBTkGSgyvvZqXqTQiPhnf

PNLnltRhAMyyTdg

Amidst the discussions, the figure in kasaya robes ascended the city tower.RGoDwiSKTUILvFkbAmKGNykogmdilV

VSGsBdrnvMWaPNf

Ning Rushen, standing on this side, couldn’t help but feel nervous.YzFCjvFCOeTZUXhwtJJDqCeibdEDPK

PEcPVjuQtvNgtth

Thinking of the content of the upcoming divination, his heart raced, and his gaze fell forward—ffhSlOwoOGIFrjfsbVXYIQTZHKhJbw

lxzdwXfsvvdcqxa

Li Wuting seemed to sense it, turning his head to meet his gaze, his calm eyes seemingly saying: Be at ease.doUuqgcpoWMsQRWXrNBHKdngbLBhwG

wgwxDYweempHPRq

He then calmed down again, blinking: Yes.PWmnNYOWUQDGymZwpOLbWbNtdaLtMO

ffgyLTQIvMDrdxE

Ahead, Master Jing Xi bowed, “This humble monk pays respects to Your Majesty.”eDTApAYGHMLPUDyWVDzqOrXOApJWbv

RwjKDqGTcqvbfTo

Li Wuting nodded.pBZqDrtkvjGLOnPNtmoIqfNbrvLCOC

pIRhqTQAfLTEZoT

Master Jing Xi smiled slightly, his golden kasaya fluttering in the wind atop the city tower, exuding a convincing sacred solemnity.coDjwbCNqnWFwYLvfEqCxefolbykEN

hLjUCcSokRavAlW

Silence fell around. After a moment of finger calculation, Master Jing Xi clasped his hands:nvwGhRWykzjbMgNLmqKNFTXtPIYszS

gXkOHqRPJBRopsk

“Your Majesty is wise—”FqKloKgFwfsWAoiSkgTXNudwIijYZb

rCwUIOybcJwRwmA

“Your Majesty is the True Dragon of the Nine Heavens, blessed with divine fortune. If you remain without a wife or heir, you can ensure the prosperity of the Great Cheng for a hundred years.”kEMaQCeTuPBmBcYkjFshSiyLkfELTW

jioEZyCAhucOOPc

As his gentle voice fell, it exploded like a thunderclap in the crowd! The surroundings were instantly in an uproar:YtqnaesjVmSupuqrmmbGbPARhCMgFX

mdTXvdEfwmMHKzq

What does this mean!?CZendiSDcrPIFunZPXiTYlhTzNWbrh

taRemqHzQuaVYzI

Is it asking the emperor to remain unmarried in exchange for the fortune of the Great Cheng?tDauSxkiwiMJfclQCHKFOeOhAExAMd

BcablRmOxHNjopZ

Before the officials and common people could react, they heard the emperor above speak calmly and firmly, “If it can protect the long-lasting fortune of the Great Cheng, I am willing to never take a consort or establish an empress.”STjqnSygkjoJCLCTVXGSnGPqOoAWAH

HUpVpQPFBcszdKF

“Your Majesty!!!”CuGHDDRnhzdMkQrkRKQzirHzyqhCsl

dvkicEagMVEmCIC

After a moment of exclamation, the officials could say no more: That is the fortune of the Great Cheng for a hundred years.rdHvJNwwwHJcOOyMuogdZDemLxpvXb

kOOebilOawOsXpr

Who dares to dissuade? But Your Majesty is… sigh!lkikklBKDXvamAfnRHYlsFQNkpIDtZ

ZQbhfwqxmPDyWWX

Not just the court officials, the common people were also stunned by this thunderclap. They looked up at the sacred and majestic figure on the city tower, awe mixed with sighs and discussions.LymlwmpsOUYvvhqFRxJsuTOFgKcSJZ

zqMOoGjsYvKXfPg

Amidst the wave of voices, Master Jing Xi clasped his hands: “Good.”vCAplBBHCNdQorHnuvmORWVjzPKIfd

gotmgjnhknAgBUb

Li Wuting’s expression remained unchanged, giving a slight nod, then looked towards the queue of important ministers—HVrXMwAGTGvoRNdeNmjoFaPAkGWnLd

tGlqcGIVkFDpKSc

His gaze passed through the night crowd, meeting Ning Rushen who had been looking at him all along.oGsxxaupfzwbUQbMnCPCIQcHlamGBC

MzJMKtjIYkxYHTl

Their gazes collided, their hearts simultaneously stirred.lvbRjfcbuixTDKTkpodIWzhPBmkqMO

kyeBUKulNpVnlTZ

Ning Rushen’s breathing quickened, his eyes warming, exchanging a look of surging love amidst the bustling crowd.JUpJBytVTdtDIjiIIaHtDWVTaFunhV

eVqZrvVuKaFXZcr

Li Wuting’s eyelashes fluttered slightly, as if smiling at him.RBnwohqDhPMZfpiixIXBLEjuZrRVKY

HrVHnNNvgCMYVph

His emotions were deeply stirred: Your Majesty…eKAWPtwvJEZTrHGjPHKVxBjecfBXaM

ryIYyYUPcUVtFki

Just as the surrounding sound waves refused to calm down, Ji, the elder at the head of the queue, suddenly raised his hand, leading a bow:DLvvIrZOTaPOcVJDrkqivqediydCNa

OjufYdwvHwKsnGH

“Your Majesty is wise!”TDSutcMIkNLJPhQicyRGtIZmNDHbEu

TEXHvsIwoHtTXxL

Ning Rushen suppressed his emotions, taking a deep breath.VvgxictFyGQXQTkpVSZQmUMaPIOSPK

BaBAxoHhxQkVpmp

Then, led by the cabinet, the elders and important ministers high on the city tower bowed in unison, “Your Majesty is wise!”oTpvHMffXjkSKLKlAOwwpMbWYPXHQL

FRxUmobvACSgYlj

The rest finally quieted down, bowing in a rustle.BCabjdTTngHwPJWZeMXkiLhzVfGDRK

QlYURHvxqPwZJBu

Thousands of sighs, joy and worry intertwined, ultimately recognized the emperor’s determination under the push of the atmosphere:WBpikjIxTZosYqSstSwLzGyHElDJRL

bkeDfyzQPFbXQKl

“May Heaven bless the Great Cheng, a hundred years of prosperity!”ZhYEioctwCtrVRSBIbkzqiwcvXbIpo

FLHORYEMedEltlF

Amidst the orderly bows, only one figure seemed slightly stiff.FiCukLAYlNNDKIJGzeGHhfhqQAebxS

MSJelvXJxgalpNW

Ning Rushen secretly looked up from his bow.gwVeavFSUjtwBjAWjEQheqEsWMhkDa

XEaLlbnqsMgmfkb

In the crowd, some court officials were already subtly glancing at the still young Li Jingyu. The latter seemed to sense it, his innocent face slowly showing a trace of panic…JzebZZkSRIekNhZANtfniiVMjlHPsJ

IIIgBoYnYQwATar

Ning Rushen, “…”ZsbWjYSTdCDmOSDrSkPbGlfLwhGRQe

lcTkxLaqOPaUMrk

This little short leg, finally catching on.XusVojXVgppbhfCemQWHtXYJtoSufe

UOuRttuMHgkrPNy

·uNtnVUnsLhCJIjSPFHinkCtLHDKHBq

enmYmHGzfrRVBQl

After the divination, Master Jing Xi retreated to the side.XFzbQIuutsjoqqFMBxqKlqzVHDraWk

ZANsiahmYJuNNrb

The thunderous interlude ended, and the annual new year celebration continued.FJGHvgIksjLRITyUDKjcuqthmJcpCT

VbIFuTwzekBKTdh

This celebration was grand.ORObbmVHxnNbBtWOYURsNhduSuJWGG

zDhtXyjDrPFKiYR

Under the supervision of the City Superintendent, the ten great families jointly organized it, an unprecedented spectacle.JLffQfIlBBXPpFggNIYNjMbLJgyLSG

MdQIkmJLEascNOp

It truly seemed to mark the beginning of the prosperous era of the Great Cheng.yiKEdMjMjbrTDQajHoikfwyzbJhzZE

wgwAiELiRcTgoYu

On the city tower, Li Wuting pressed one hand on the city wall, his figure towering and stern, like an unshakable mountain.cdJRgkQQZzqfGfSEWmeveYvtNuosnP

KNrvqMztqFDBpRB

As the crowd’s attention was drawn away by the performances below.DjwfYoWzBzEufZptSxJarTyMCLBCci

RmxDkCIvsqlWmUr

De Quan finally couldn’t hold back, “Your Majesty!”yLKWNnLyJjBSCENCndOtsGdfqfhapF

CMjOfWFEGjrNwKr

The emperor beside him lightly glanced over, and under the pressure of proximity, he whispered urgently, “Your Majesty, why go to such lengths as to leave no heir…”ZOPGWnQirQlgYiadobUxkBRipntAUb

OEUKKQTORWQYBNk

Li Wuting’s voice was calm, leaving no room for doubt, “I only want him.”HOulnUQrzfbbPFkogTfjnDDRdFqekP

EMxjwJvenYWwmOg

De Quan didn’t know whether to be happy or regretful.CzcjDSTIjypgUAqBJbmeDzDlSOYCme

uLbWgKxwwsLIynS

He had hoped for His Majesty to achieve his wish, but he hadn’t imagined His Majesty would even forgo descendants. After a moment of sighing, he thought of Lord Ning, of the affection he had witnessed between the two along the way, and it seemed acceptable.UZHGYEpmpLmwWDXdnuPWGDZNjPNrbk

lqbfsiRgmfLbLod

De Quan took a step back, “But Your Majesty only wanting Lord Ning doesn’t require the empress’s position to remain vacant…”pTGrdSoroYdJwtDULAVeRaSPhVEbrg

hbDAmrkSNpyqhgb

Li Wuting understood his meaning, “I will not establish an empress.”fMPiuANxvJKnTTtGEMdzEbgWvICUfB

qVFUCdoizlKgglO

De Quan, after all, was just a young eunuch, not thinking far ahead.hRujqkbNhwUzBagVWaPeDsNthNojyo

kApTpToLeJczshF

He hesitated in confusion: Why not?YJnSnmWkwWEeqYamIBNzmXtXtPpeiO

UxZLhyifafQUENE

Li Wuting looked down at the bustling capital, his gaze falling on the horizon where the lanterns met the night, “He opened the markets, established the cabinet, went to the northern border, entered enemy camps…”uhJKLIJooeomjuPEuRFecELYXHBLSP

rQiCIfRDvILgoer

“There will be more aspirations to realize in the future.”adgquSLIJNvWayuugQdrIcKvAJBJJQ

NOKNbcoCdcgADZR

“His literary and martial achievements should not be obscured by the title of ’empress.’ He should stand in the court, his name immortalized in history—”TpaPlvnLDcijnsSckvcnIVGurmKyMK

KUaSToSrtSyclUy

“I want no one to dare to write of him as a sycophant a hundred years from now.”PGynzDPumKIzumDmcIZWjrZxvsrbOO

NeVrwKlXuMoIohB

De Quan, looking at the emperor’s resolute profile, was stunned for a long while, unable to hold back his tears, “Your Majesty…”rhXlllTooCutFmRblXEqbSuWtiBgcY

FAmwjfcsxwBCbuh

…CBRlfaMLnSBVbAaocuPvQbkIDSkhZc

jhilwOExaQXYqBW

The ceremony’s proceedings had ended.bjTvqVNqXVlJCiTGmfDnZwvNTDvjaS

xlRukbqvshhvwAq

The ministers who had ascended the tower descended, some wandering the markets.WyFTHsZvsRvWWYAlJFcUeRwfpqjJXW

XpfcqevudvsijFx

Amidst the warm and bustling atmosphere, Ning Rushen squeezed past his colleagues to find Li Wuting.BvUOiXKAFLjxAKllRulYDnKdIplKhp

DRQLfoLfOylLyHE

Li Wuting turned and saw him coming, his solemn expression changing, unable to resist a slight smile.AuLQaUqFIDSZMVovhNAqEAbyDiDSYe

UrjLdEBHXiAupQE

The guards did not stop him, and in a few steps, he was by the emperor’s side.aiIUFvKlOQetSiSqPEcLYzQYaDVIFX

YxdIQpqBVKsrtUd

Remembering the scene on the city tower before the eyes of thousands, and Li Wuting’s gaze that had passed over the crowd to meet his, Ning Rushen’s emotions surged again, “Your Majesty…”PQUjLBFiEQdEZZkuZocMqlnJUmQkGe

aXCpZfTBRbmifhT

Li Wuting said nothing, only turned towards the lively scene below:xYuiZiRVPWfyZEZvKtzqLNyVLyZaZh

NkuqwUwmMYYqxrw

“Come and see our Great Cheng.”hpCplHWOcNoJtiuZKQhxeYrqLsIImf

pcMQqZPLxiSnemG

Ning Rushen stood by his side and looked down, the officials celebrating, the people joyous—this was their Great Cheng. He was deeply moved when he heard from beside him:oahBZvtcxcRHntUywbAVoCIHyfVUBk

HtgvpqRceAqxGkc

“And your lion dance.”ASLkFmwiBxoslYVhfFojKyngpGIRDj

eoDNcSjhnyuVHRC

“…” His gaze fell.npQimAmXyCCktapwpPyQCLHsCXaMkv

xXfzwxWLgXmljRi

In the crowded sea of people, a tall and imposing man was holding up a massive lion’s head, leaping amidst the crowd.tIRPXMeoTHlzCEoLeXDQDUyqLbYYlG

mRKNPbYxaTwGerM

Ning Rushen swallowed.RqQqGBnDozCURHhtGuIidJUDwZZJPg

rienLrvJSDNbjCo

Li Wuting continued, “Compared to Lord Ning, it’s still a bit lacking.”PZHmoziqngumAhxqkYRWagPidKpaeg

lVZnuPVwCkPXHQg

“…” Is there no end to this!WowcBYnHPPPBkpFaRdAbVFnyPsrAXn

OWKaZBOjiDdIzsz

He had only said, “I can still do the lion dance”!tAZbLzExofblJEkvNtpcaTIzOBjmNW

LbjKJtrEMLaSbOc

Ning Rushen, flustered and annoyed, reached to pinch Li Wuting’s hand. As soon as his hand reached out, it was suddenly grasped.UpblVmKnQpmciqdWrVYIdVufvLPZtl

JoAdgCrJXPjOtEs

The hand beneath the sleeve tightly held his.bUCCDOWJDeEcKmyJmwIhLgXVZrzOym

lVtKUDjvXZVCMvN

Ning Rushen looked up to see Li Wuting’s lips curving into a smile. His heart stirred, and he couldn’t help but open his mouth, “Chao…”BwIhJHcbHozGkANCkyaqfggxGAhopC

azMgsIeoCMmZjWy

Almost as soon as the word began.QEDgDxxQsmOHcHcibpzPgvqUbzdttD

fuIcyCZDxZZnRlE

Suddenly, a bell rang out on the city tower, and fireworks burst forth in unison!pjqFvzsIYPzxkaRPAmAVDnmkLBjpfs

BLYhERQtytcXLIL

The moment instantly crossed midnight, welcoming the new year, the dazzling fireworks like golden rain in the night sky. Amidst the crowd’s exclamations and praises, he and Li Wuting’s fingers interlocked tightly.CNkUWxnvBlHYjSTaZqIvNxfdSmequc

sbXGWTJdsIwlIrW

Ning Rushen’s heart pounded rapidly.uViLCSfDPHYWviEBHnuKqkwTHbVkGl

cKSSKLpGIUGfELP

Countless lights illuminated his clear eyes.fEGuSfMmSSbYZbdAzhsZNRHwpCltiL

BCGfCauxDXKkRDH

He held his breath and looked, the fireworks spelling out several splendid characters in front of him:MaxUOEpQKnJWPjlDmEoiqZXXfdsMWh

rusfRsEjTzMLKoN

『Peace and prosperity, a bright moon and a gentle breeze』SOqLngiPkpBhmqWTUtBbAkNifFlKSR

yJLMtQkDySzSSPr

His heartstrings were suddenly touched, a low call mixed with the bustling crowd and the sudden burst of fireworks, falling between the two, “…Chaojun.”ESaIMxDudINGJdXLwqraRWkxTeXSxQ

zRdwhjqgPnXKjsX

·KiYNCgrsNDDdwqLMpqdYnUNzKqVbgm

qJQDIJCfXCsGZOv

After the grand ceremony, the news of the emperor not taking a consort was known to all.EQvCYJrSjMFBnVLWTkTNQemhcWXLhJ

lcULMTyylrpZJYD

Amidst the shock and sighs, there was not much dissent.PMZsgVUofoUsCrkqEXceNEoRfDXIaL

crMdHAELwjPfHaU

As Li Wuting had said before, what the people cared about was only their daily necessities, wealth, and happiness.hpfmaktPEuFpYXvtUIwxlRAMCFKyJy

wnwcFJJUihYsBKa

Occasionally, there were a few questions, but they were all rebutted by those around: “His Majesty has no heir, but that is for the fortune of the Great Cheng!”gxNqQRROcCZOEHvszMcHcJRFEpjzfG

qlRjxpzvQcrrolh

“What’s more important than our good life?”EkEcFjzDseuneynduKoAVLAEhZDlPD

OqARlgWZelhBkEf

The sudden ripple was quickly calmed.yFuEazBJTftWUJyhEPRVhrKahkOHDt

TVvwGvWFAmQlTZk

The whole country was in a peaceful state, except for one person—JTrjnsdDErPHzSbazejMiyQWTEAtvJ

HnXmTdttxXfkhKm

In the palace, in the study room on the east side.DRHTBvBkTHfKOmdLGyKtQiuaOsgLKB

RslPuAFXZvKjpkY

Li Wuting and Ning Rushen sat in front of the desk, behind which the little short leg was about to cry, “Big brother…”DdjVeoMWYzWjIoSkrZAyOrgFguTpEp

VutHnpCtDZndjQa

“Jingyu, be steady,” Li Wuting said, “From now on, besides your studies, you must also attend court in the cabinet.”vMxjGRbmkYMXOhXvflmLAdLOGbPTpE

ITSKPiXDLzPawYg

“Don’t neglect your martial arts either, I will have the newly appointed martial champion teach you.”UxyllTKMlyPIarsJuFEvckwSxUViqH

dBdsqtSJCTDmDSQ

At this, Li Jingyu really started to cry: Wuwu!ktjemJKWMIISQROQMdtwkjLqpKgGgb

lIxnplGoRzKAdxH

His drooping face looked like a soaked bun, “Big brother, I’m still too young, isn’t there second brother?”ImMaEvYMXdZSLiIeCasNNxQLfaBfuk

KgykpElTkyarpHU

“Do you want the Great Cheng to be destroyed?”ARmyznjjDlyfzCYGQLlTpYyPBPEeBM

CrJDIqwhHajpstz

“…” The crying stopped abruptly.usmbEgBEjPSXAXDBRvhjYzXLfODgyk

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Ning Rushen sighed: Straightforward, reasonable.wkFjEtQHTqQUsGoJsZDgpVbjYrWhoe

QXZFpXKuReitBzL

Li Wuting had just assigned the homework when a court official came to report, and he got up to leave temporarily.OAJGKbuZTFHLsYCliTHddNnGCGdMbN

qqFOkpisfvRvMNg

After the person left, Ning Rushen felt a bit unbearable.SMGGjfmShqIlyxYCdFdIpFfZZjgNzV

TKYefSaeyfREIiR

Looking at the crumpled Li Jingyu, he wanted to comfort and explain, when the little short leg in front of him suddenly changed his expression, seriously blinking:TgwxMxADkZeOFmgHRNUWGaChxXnSOF

tTtgZawMhOqcflC

“It’s okay, I understand.”sWfHJpJgtOiWtAbedGivMUseYWmgxt

wLenCPLWCSywcLV

Ning Rushen: ?KJGOUbwxaUKjhMceWJxcwdrzpzneMq

YixdYJXKfbVSvIY

Li Jingyu said seriously, “Big brother wants to be with Lord Ning, right? Big brother has protected me a lot before, I have always had no way to repay.”BxuItoQlcnXgDodQXCQcNPiiptOXMQ

ZBVNSMKHruvtaLX

“If big brother needs, I am willing to bear the world.”zwQPJRoWBUijmRbAKZJSYFJmDtCjZk

NeAAlfYAWOqTLka

Ning Rushen was stunned and speechless, “Then just now…”rpWInQchLfzqOGYQoWvjuCoFzueAQy

IfWIRljMgyBzVFM

“I have to sell misery moderately, big brother will soften,” Li Jingyu came over and whispered, “Isn’t that what Lord Ning taught?”HLbvsAMavIVulyLPdPpakYgqCOtKNy

kDfoOrXREOQoBFM

Ning Rushen slowly opened his mouth: It really was him…pxuigaWEpdQsfPrJElGsqtdbzfHFcf

EPvfRTYaWDAAjfH

Li Jingyu added, “I only told Lord Ning, don’t tell big brother.”DfkLUYkqpnImzfqNIDLVHldVoSrnDi

tzPrqkCkgTnBuNo

Ning Rushen looked at this innocent and naive face, reasonably suspecting he was trying to confuse him, but couldn’t help but nod, “…Alright.”GGpOcBhJJruBxCrpNYjkxygkxMiUCi

zyJmZbmnyaRttZt

The little short leg then affectionately leaned over: “Hehe.”RpSuGJxZWyKgzEnVnIWawdrGkwVOTC

PziQfjduspmIhJs

…PTfwmEUEdyZcVUUxmsRRVDAsLgHybZ

NXEhZwhtsOaLUKW

After a while, Li Wuting returned.mfxIhtKmTHKpDuGMMkrtBjYvWoyqKe

EiDEJsNGbiDkJCZ

After finishing assigning homework with someone, he left with Ning Rushen.JqreIuBnOnMMqxGAqfTcQSWhlGGHgu

rPPkGJGKlmedxiW

It was still early, and still during the holiday, so they returned to the palace first.aKtTGZDVevwXnsqCOZdgztjOtzyGIb

JsLwXIKACqZfsrf

Arriving at the palace, dismissing everyone.UjnuhFWDKWdarXNCkqqgNrwCVZeFnx

jxxuADMzwmwyBPU

Ning Rushen was washing his hands in the basin when he heard Li Wuting ask, “Did Jingyu act cute with you?”lqWDehDJMHWSikNWJxkjEySzuqUYJy

cZRxQsUhyvbalFY

He glanced sideways, “How does Your Majesty know?”PwOMFMLKWpjcoYaHpHrCeyvKUlWIxA

CLXQuvDbWmBvPzD

Li Wuting smiled, “I know him too well.”wVohdkbMuDjefXOPIWknsPAVoJygkw

YtFfzBFKvHUEdBV

Ning Rushen realized: The old dragon is still sharp.bVFqdEfgoponwLjaKqFHsuDtbGkrxV

uYFgzjbOJEWubyy

Indeed, not to mention Li Wuting’s keen insight. With the experiences of two lifetimes, naturally, he understood clearly.FdTRSAKZqUtVYxcLxmBCBsKRCTiWIr

bQIPbyykvNrGrzX

That Jingyu…qYiPQFCbGvaRHpzMnnBdRZcIaKnoas

pApHYaqidBoKdfZ

He thought while drying his hands.eHObIzJmGKKFugRypMObtFkPhXsgof

hCTXsrsixGICHqv

Just as he finished drying his hands, he was suddenly pulled over. He sat on Li Wuting’s lap, “Your Majesty!”zBHqcaUdwoDbFdjOXwIRgAOTqkFsqx

mwfdgnEaHRkZdnf

Li Wuting hugged him, looking down, “What are you thinking? Not even a glance for me.”XyvBUiAlEBQkbzshoxtRtmGRYvFleT

CPsmFHruZkpSnEq

…Isn’t it about the pot you threw?FMtZIdDzRMrLcWiFkVvGkXqzssVeiG

GbKIflmIEdJWGsF

Ning Rushen climbed onto his shoulder, rounding it off, “Thinking of Your Majesty.”sfBDYXHrPMMApizpbORfTJDqpYwbuL

IMFDdCNumdouGJR

The breathing before him became disordered, Li Wuting’s gaze heated.vEqhFXVdFtVdAXwgiYdeYwHLZsLiOD

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He leaned in to kiss, tenderly plucking the lips that belonged to him, “The holiday is seven days.”nYKTXlFclqCNcXrPoLOMSBUkPrDOek

cjDGXVrkcbyjHZE

“Huh?” Ning Rushen’s eyelashes trembled, feeling the recovery before him, immediately a bit flustered, “What?”ctKBtXcGHOvaSoxJXQsJWlkTywaFoY

bJmCbTHYEqjxixV

“Last time I pampered you, afraid you couldn’t attend the celebration.”wvYTzlLqRivuBORYKkzEelKTtvRkIs

KYpdmZIJDucEEzI

Li Wuting held his waist, observing, “Five days to dance the lion?”byqSraUfrCytohRoHYBWwjiELIJlaI

hNfhDPftMtzKiLk

“…”lcnxjNrKdeQZDspxsFKlsTQtdesEPT

qzWtSsuwzUSShmh

Ning Rushen finally sensed the danger, bouncing up, “No!”fzefCVrRiUJFCQaGgIfXsFSzlTxFjp

mFwAWSxUuHpffKB

A long arm pulled him back, Li Wuting’s large hand on his waist, lowering his head to kiss, “…Try.”VNfPLNkjZBSOTMlRREYfFGFfomnCLA

XSHSpXEeHXgCdFL

“No, mmm—”UzKNkJeotciwfsGmdYcHnlPhXkKfOP

VWOdCdbLJjbddEe

·vmIzhYVEKiSFcFLDoGAedeNdvaOosR

fPNczqQmvGmaYnk

Lord Ning was “sick” again.FOiuefTvKGvayZPmCCOEAiXpDuaabj

LVIjZIgdRnarzkv

Favored by the emperor, the palace sent many condolences to the Ning residence.lcJjUrmpceFsUPstTNvjbSWVUKCOJQ

iUIHOLKAneFHWfw

Ning Rushen nestled in the recliner in the main courtyard, sending away all the palace people who came to deliver gifts, not seeing anyone.ZgtwrEosPAozhxDqUDyIHnretMKZiy

eFQSCMQWAZiTjnU

Now, he reflexively shivered at the sight of bright yellow brocade—OxJCQbSgqgByeLuIJSbGYtXQTCBqZX

laaDNEFGkugpABV

He unconsciously touched his flat abdomen.ysDDXFzXcOeJltYETQAFNRnBnrErww

seuLgpjNMgHApmy

That day, the light was still bright, and here he saw a situation he had never seen before.KEUCkgrIXilCCSsbmpumcXDOxxRqFW

dkcYHQkmijySfhR

Ning Rushen’s ears turned red with shock at the thought, feeling annoyed:poyPcbmZSAEbBRlgFLLdvLNBLIyImN

ZGIoKATbBJslZIo

Li Wuting really made him unable to move for five days… five days, and now, he still trembled at the thighs when he moved.VtLGbIfQeBmLnkDaVSyZNhnSoqqzlx

jkHBXtyyMbiQJao

It was really too embarrassing!WriplvWDHwJGMetoqlWarkVDIsUhPr

jckdelMerzbtOaz

He wrapped himself in a blanket, nestled alone in the small courtyard.ESakFkCAWkCktQcFGIxqYjDYkEhJei

CgGNvsEMTWgRjaB

Perhaps the dismissed palace people reported something, as not long after, there was a commotion outside the courtyard.hxFjgOgpzPnNtkPXtjqRUCZIormzPI

lzmLCnRdiLHlYZF

Then, the figure that made his waist tremble and ears hot came personally.CvulUtutjLrhPNQIPtVVBpjJEjwCBr

ptHZCRkfKagvBsd

Li Wuting walked over and sat beside him, “Still mad at me? It’s my fault.”rRbSfUohIzxjFoRlYXMdlDHMyUUxfI

qRDzsKEibzrJCCg

Ning Rushen thought: You said the same last time.VSGOLNXESUWZCWoHaVRwruCdpKFpsj

gQjVExZQUjLQZKj

Seeing his gaze, Li Wuting paused, softly explaining, “But at that time, I saw that you liked it…”DINifQfinXvEImqjVkPRKLGTqjyrvT

dZUdkhinYJanMHr

Ning Rushen covered his mouth with a claw: What are you saying!qNseVmPGvKKvnmuhkyxvYSHieWrhXS

zueehbwQnuLhvkX

The long hair draped behind him slightly puffed up.TtgelPtlXfDpHKSWhuQJAldxQDXJyx

TEKlkzxYlXubIQB

Li Wuting then pulled down his hand, “Alright, won’t say it.”BqZffwoMqaNquqoGtExAGLLlCKohyp

hseshgMGJJmromp

The emperor, above ten thousand people, coaxed him gently, his broad and warm hand pulling his palm.MmQdFRASPmSEtOJqzUMfEKVXSYKWJL

VyUGWrJBelkixlf

Ning Rushen wrapped himself in the imperial blanket, couldn’t help but want to snuggle into the embrace. But thinking of his previous indulgence, he sat upright seriously, formally asking:RmxOkmLPdETrtpmwAbmhMogcxQrhve

rQfjBcPsYDloRjb

“Your Majesty, what brings you here?”miAsKFWODNMavWZQbiaXcZyAznfFnV

YOExgDMEnxKBFNQ

Li Wuting nodded, “To discuss your position.”jObjFKsNjTlvlZUkcbzojAIGxbXjmP

QIILDgnElMRiWSi

Really something? Ning Rushen looked at him.pfnlkelhCtguqabLdiyhMEvfUyHZIS

JtVFaRqIpiilPiK

Li Wuting said, “After the New Year, you will step down from your position in the City Superintendent, I will transfer Fan Wan to the Ministry of Rites to take over your tasks.”LulhubGthKcXiAlkJSlnwDgocndkVd

ZlUNWsNaFMLKljj

“You will still hold the position of Grand Scholar in the cabinet, no need to handle memorials.”mDELawrrjBeDZySQYzUwkZfVweBuyX

zwgPErRcSyLOjEK

“Also, you will be concurrently appointed as Junior Tutor, to teach Jingyu’s studies…”dzeaJbzFpgVToFNknPuLmqqUcmCvRD

HAuZlTgXbJhFZYV

Ning Rushen’s eyes widened, “Let me teach the young prince?” Isn’t he black enough already?KZMliOuojEKmFCfMJdOFaUJFBWQSId

rLfqPZFQjSVEWFh

As if hearing his unspoken words, Li Wuting said:AomPBbVVQiSimekUnHKkzgdNZbavpf

xHmGwCKcUJpeJcL

“Do you remember what you told me about a free, equal, and civilized prosperous era?”QPyUlBycdpIpXVtRigBOjcOqYrRWCN

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“The Great Cheng will eventually be handed over to Jingyu. Such a prosperous era needs to be told by you.”dWZvhpQtYNbPZOGFVKWqJeOtedkVbw

isFySYbOVkgFmbg

Ning Rushen’s heart stirred, looking at him:LDvkogsoqPbvVgXGYJzJUHYLFWCvxg

VLCjwJkvvsIylQa

—Li Wuting was serious.dzjZsqnZlsWqiguvtGmESZXIPxlMiB

MlMiTVAgveSSlHL

He responded, “…Alright.” Still, he couldn’t help but move into the embrace.lCiiyEOfzYpoTJnhUNLAlnjMphnzuZ

YtvsOwxvgISYFyT

Li Wuting then naturally embraced him.HBjTpVPneLCOlWuumwTBItvueoZasT

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His waist was slender, the long arm wrapped around his back and fell in front of him. His gaze shifted, suddenly stopping.NuQcGDheYftJiEWPHuUFozAKBNfLED

ABKwQdDnDwBEUkE

Just now, Li Wuting’s hand was hidden under the wide sleeve. Now, a section was exposed, and on the wrist, he saw a string of bodhi beads tied with a cord.KpCIZHNhvYiLgGRKpfRnoGkNMijuGY

lFasvHFMbMQGjXF

Seeing his gaze, Li Wuting softly:WjFjzUKsqiClUgrjbsHczYZuTJxiam

BFvPlBRbDyjoJIa

“I said, I would keep it well for you.”wmzZVgBOvbmJiGCswmofbPHilIDCBB

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Ning Rushen’s fingertips brushed over the bodhi bead firmly tied to the emperor’s wrist, instantly all his anger was gone.DaThFtOPraReFFOHIOYLmNuEBMBtxc

ksHtxuUMWsqWtyh

He nestled into the embrace, holding a porcelain cup.SLupNYUVovtaozFdFhjuCVVLAeIXNL

xrEFCmfLwJcpfXC

Li Wuting lowered his head: ?vsjDeIgzrYjwbnzJSZzsJsGWwinAKX

nKkAlOqgiQmWeJw

Ning Rushen magnanimously, “Compassion for all.”mHeFtUcVYYlWaSpPwTLNnpiHMofrPe

TAWbIjGNGwumKiq

“…” Li Wuting patted his head, letting him lean, “Shen Shen takes a breath.”jbcTPeECyXuSKzTqSANziARiaAOcIP

tEHBBqINBdCWZlI

Ning Rushen, “Shen Shen wants many breaths.”CIEDiQwoGrFgbQyQSVMyIbMPiEXdRR

FgnOKzwjquAIYAW

“Then many breaths.”ykzImJynZyvXqzWWyMNjztypfoBceC

QmIEHKJKLfoQbYO

“Can I?”rDTkZSDtGOMPBckXBOuokggQvrNbLD

UkAmtjMwLdFOgzz

“Can.” Li Wuting softly, “After gradually handing over the burden to Jingyu, I will accompany you in rest.”IazQOUiEAUOTtTriHINJwXBBrlGFFF

ueRTAbWTgTpXuJf

To travel the mountains and rivers? Ning Rushen became interested at once, looking up to ask, “Where are we going?”XsrBsAoBPHyWStfMeBRgieOCeotIQi

vFAHdsKtaZrOgce

Li Wuting’s gaze looked out of the courtyard.cisPTirhuuyyjJkjjcCluIpSEVyrED

wbsDFujhmtpbboe

After the New Year, the snow by the small pond had melted, plum branches swaying.NJjKSjPprgyuAXjcGSIdZrqPTofQrU

HIkadlXABmRuYkZ

He lowered his head to kiss Ning Rushen’s forehead, as if embracing the entire delayed spring:DQmcreRdqIbAClwPVnkNPFtOuSGKsG

LHeIyStSERhyllq

“The Great Cheng has high mountains and wide waters, where can’t we go?”ODreWucEhxYpqgLrZbDOrrwSDfzhck

hPnEvunqthHcVlw