This official is so weak

XKEJmffbadOPUsmTable of Contents

Chapter 39

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

hzLBGnDHgIzBVKb

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

XkYUnsqYKdxufnu

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

ICcadvCCMXhwrjf

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

crGIMLqvZOpRBkg

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

OYYeCSjgyDOjchs

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

UBQwSHYKxdNZQcS

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

AbSwCFTZZgJLKWq

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

JMcThpxmYHTkFXB

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

CpFeqgRacRKYPXY

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.ZiQnwuZOBWigpyLwkgIHeDEFlsUGGz

KSHARXBugPUcLHc

“Why did you forget again?”EzZHQGqtuJCdYttFHKmajrvbztIHQh

krKZhAWvzuPUENW

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

NuZeXCNnmWECEnP

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

QMOOGlHquJcsZGf

That hand then began adjusting his shoulder and arm.wESCYjQhYttQyclGUBhZhUgYHakPXf

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A tingling sensation lightly surged through his waist.nTqIqRlkUgYRBtiaCPnLxueHKvDYlC

xmFVSuUsvbOuIVg

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?TtLiteIUedhqpJupsAsaQdgPizuoaa

PIvHbhzInifYLHH

He guessed that might be what Li Wuting meant.BCozwUkalTKpRwbpPLKYfKCUcJOXjX

jZBpPDLVHWcZpta

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

xVwCbOHYuzkmodK

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…”IHwgUaXsTRwAeJJRrnRexQIUAhaTDn

QakzXEMOyYESEcm

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

cpGwTfLyzygFaIP

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

FPeXZwWAaCJkMom

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

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His fingertips loosened, whoosh—aLkzweDWtpbJbxQtNRzsWQSCEhuxvv

ddofnKeKlxnVfDR

The arrow shot out, directly hitting the bullseye.GjVqlBgRRTtALiFuoyWxEGEYIyfOGB

BQaSczEHCvGrayq

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

MOoJHeoqaOsQRKr

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

TKeuMIoavIbKLon

“Not bad.”xlzXKqHLzNmBuUcWuRNySzBZaoNKur

VFHgIvUcUPeosaX

“…”PdSlVDGsatTrNnZGPXiGJCopvdyfxR

ryNwnYRzekMVGVE

Not bad, my ass!!!SCdcGyBqtQtDHnmIsREhfsOFjaJRMt

BoikXtlahqjHvDF

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

gYopEDvVtIDpnRo

Lonely and desolate, dying alone.SDsmTJVseUwfRLWBGEhRsoDnusynQN

hyakmEeBaYZCNNj

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

QmzIPMuTWwKiEvX

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

hyKYqbtLIkMPNtL

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

hpqByNapVbwwhNk

“…”GfTtTRWUyCAbjcVJkPVtMNAvvdZJHo

JxlHGtDBpNTMZqV

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

FswMaHXnwTnYNbR

I’ll satisfy you, just say it.pFUFWNTRzpdgHwZdTXxYCoMuWoIEww

DAkVoPGTFwKeKWs

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

UDRvIUDoUjRgORZ

Ning Rushen thought, not really.fPUAKonTlytJIiCavoRbCyMIAMLTmk

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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.DQeonxIhHTmphcscJCQKlqaVMovJLm

FlLRPWwMIDvtmmh

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

ZMLXSGoWUwWRXoc

Li Wuting silently observed him for a moment.UJpWYTqQitHXEWhXiurscpdiUJezLi

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

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Ning Rushen held his breath and looked up: ?KBLrSNoSGlXNJZzPLIlFdTwTahzuFQ

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

mzPLFAxQXGlVsZv

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

ycdYfZceloDeUZr

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

mTZOwzLgLrbYwKP

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

KxasMtNyTFQxOpn

“…”yOkhTIMVDghGQvoVhexzuYpJyfKXWU

KTXgDmUYgiTaAsa

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

tQuthqqsXpsgphw

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

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

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

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“Yes, Your Majesty.”EhfnpjBLPyMsCsCevGHGojBeOteYgI

XsZhOOHvdyjMgzL

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

YpEAUZnrBfniwAb

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

qGBmgFBlcHSEQbY

He looked up.FaGZIyFdHAhvTiatFGIEzHYZGpQAhq

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

WJDjuKalQpuBMFs

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.UXXesLbmJECPiNMmgGMAqTbnwyaeJp

LvofCnLZOxgYhZH

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

poaHnlJsPwkkaUq

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

esrePpalEGTmjPy

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

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

MqFvyUuZGaIzjTA

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

hLJLBCsztgCMQfH

“…”esAzMPXIGlybZmhhewGKingIdGkzge

EfJLLSuHhFQclpM

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

STFspilLLuiHQPj

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

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

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

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This event was unprecedented.IBOIlQvOEXbrKREFnfthpBgIvVHKkJ

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

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Ning Rushen was summoned to join the procession.paMDUmHKGBGVuUkqFRAOkBmnivaUqD

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

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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.HuKNqibPHrNfDvwOjJJiAdMfbUxOaB

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

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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:ofzzLchaDgSGfbLPYWjRhbNIMAMlzS

sylljYmMqpVyZlw

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

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“…”XOpObxRMrDKWaxelGjTgIRrKubnirq

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

DdrArtXmyjkFZXP

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

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

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The two continued climbing the mountain.kRWAbYEBgquDJesBjuzRQiEgQQKtHi

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

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

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

uLTIHZRxdKcBhdB

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…”YHtRQxPfgaxiKBDUthEOErZDoXukUS

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Before he finished, a hand supported him.GfxeqWCmfJEviFjuvqtQXBFNFzFBbf

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

JqJiBzGkWiguRfy

“…”YOXvbTsZysOSXxJvXBmhYoyvucxobC

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

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

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

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Ning Rushen entered the temple with the procession.zYdQHpfBRGLsXQXVVHDEHYMfSLvqbv

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The temple was already prepared for their reception.zeRgPQvZNLVRJZSOeMYPatBPFmMrMo

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

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“Your humble monk welcomes the Holy Emperor.”uHyuyslGZvZIcUvxoBBsYgTnfayduY

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

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

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

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

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The crowd dispersed.TcOpJHNvaSiuJYaYZYsMZAAppXGezZ

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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:FtASwCuxUitpdbUweLkycvdybGxQYi

xuHHywHqWfTlIYh

“Master Jingxi.”SvzjHUQmVrXqVZvNvmeWnTiAwszBRf

vEOXdhfycgittDH

“Your Majesty, long time no see.”ZTJVwUGRwQSigZYVDfSjuaHvnKNtAR

JLkvpMTfDBupzQJ

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

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Ning Rushen caught this from a distance:aLVWfLuTmgKfPRHkBrfFbMmktXDpeh

llbvPdyDezLCtmu

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

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

iDyqSXbYsoJdUWE

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

qZzwLErmttoTVVL

Their figures soon disappeared behind the hall.VAYdPqZaUFAEAuTEhOjxwdcfSiJflQ

gdNfVkbgoNhehcm

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

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At this moment, his sleeve was tugged.higgsErlMSXLXtulxSPVYJoeocZrnp

PqXCiCzvZtHVLiG

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

TXNSbLtuaThzshW

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

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

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

MOKpJqlMScUggNe

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?”RzHJvkCmDOEHAKuinSNvqUDMxruLDf

KvHOfVqMsVEPSEr

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

EzMwAcijvHSstZe

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

PHmbSKyyKdVCRjX

·dqfjxHlMXGikZLlkLWpsDboJsrOOQY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.fUBuJoSVfnZOZjEevGzTFUDFJpoxNV

bprEMjGZmWlNwUC

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.”UQIrfmNzcpiFXIVisZnkHqRpavqZAr

WrFnQjXLvhQIAVs

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

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

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

fUaxMUjkiWuSvOF

Ning Rushen paused.dptoWbHhLRJNXbyPDefvuyfOuHfvmr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

pMEJgmhGilUAyBd

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.”AdEHEWeUBkPxdNALyHTqpoGtMZsGtF

txBjYhvFclHfHDR

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.”GMVsjeSaMsSwuJcakPAfWAbCsbDrxF

GrnWFYqZldmCmef

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

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

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

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

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“…”gHKQrrtSmMnpUalLdkRbCgHEVnoWAp

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

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

cMlyhAHPvrxiIoV

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

FCZIYmXGomjzJHa

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Elsewhere, in the tranquil and serene Meditation Hall.PVMbfCbrbtCRoMoxasGXXKiCuNibwV

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

jtUDZheRTBBMIMC

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

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Li Wuting responded softly.PkwZWKcLimhnNeIROJtLjSXREGsuNj

hsipPTKvJDQrAOB

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.dSlSYdbAEZMHBHvQsFpDGuisSHAsYU

TFSAyPglpbVuKZb

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

CFxNNLkEbtxpdGt

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

MvYhKOiNxYYnJEf

“With more experiences, naturally comes change.”pKjJISdHewfYMfFeTjMrcNsExVaEET

cPEdrMWZTefiiEE

Li Wuting’s long fingers tapped his knee.qVuDznFBPvFfiCMPLTsoVhZYEDBZKE

mclcXpwCldQiucP

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.oNIDQifhEGyLTPWOiEmGtXskYaNkEh

UKyklqPfajcQJHk

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

KLeZVsqIUSNInAa

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

eZsCBajuGjZniIo

“The same,” Master Jingxi nodded.tXgPWtWVKKtDPWgDTQOgzNOLhLaUHh

vieSdkUFSImMQMt

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

XxmcyQXMsZUmEih

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

tobpFkcowIKkiJR

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

taYzwmAhtUEnegF

Li Wuting’s figure suddenly froze.wSsmjUXcdrDascAqqpnmVzuLTQHzeD

pzgFKkXRelXRnBk

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.lHZJExAHVJEocTjlQCCMxBodtXGHDd

wECcdzdSxZaRBHs

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

SrnpqjjutOJAgVU

Li Wuting felt a stir in his heart.qzjasmAdlktKYmbrmQtmiZGbYyhefF

FBMZdjBjFFnpCvL

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

BvrCZMvRpNlUjuD

·XEcTwXcwwfUCFEUxOqwRUqyIcbtDQh

GsiiSNQTsfagTOn

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

OpreoaNhytAlogT

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

beWFuSHGVHhnuIf

Ning Rushen did not leave with them.igbvEJmSabOoItFAbzHdMxyjfwXJyj

uDpEPNavlYAzoDo

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

eXYGnWHDSdxUdVC

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.vPkumGAnpqacYIALbmiYYVBvNAOPpU

KodZGDdxVtqGZbu

After dinner, he returned to his assigned room.LiySQpupolVInwzlYGfBOWgadeDqPG

iUIUEzpxUFuutgW

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

enNkzaDERxbwaII

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

BDfGPTyzPjAHmzc

The slightly hot water quickly warmed his whole body.WuSGLXoMUxAvqAOINyjKGiWDXEvaci

DRxSPKNquwPNaOA

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

igwMRjuTlDjvPwa

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

YrcPPzVBXBlfeFh

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

pWPUYTTftMCLTOf

yapfHoGJxfpKaOXYcrkPccQSeDQUlW

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Two quarters later.yzezCWrnVcgMnpkuxRMfUSkvItHfaE

KZvySbGbsDNBkhH

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.FoJZoCdhTkwBYIhWjqZyGjlFbhWCwg

AgTVNwgwgTyYdDW

He knocked lightly, “Master Ning?”QxAkVeAsYjaBCyYRFiuYVHqyRwIlke

XviKfOeSMcPOTse

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

xwIsllqDPSoCFww

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

FYGbduiHAxGnpwr

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

dtPkJsqOQldArmT

Hesitating, he suddenly heard a childish voice ask:zLPzUeZsMkskTncwclgJYJUescQqgx

zyxHSwvlIToacwc

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

NZVyANsYAYbaKea

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.”ZjwasTZGdxHDFEmCeBrHgaJWySXbul

FEgxtxxMZpcoZqt

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

PoJkLqbBLdHLGZs

He turned and ran off.fasVlfGnVzbJaTkszdkVdmVHVDPbak

bAxWwupLMMKPYcS

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

pqOyrKniewiCkKY

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

xpGjTGNbsPJlnUU

“…”xfhhvYJeMhGZVDAUvWssTleAiRivmj

JmZGXBbAzXshptn

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

JPjQMIFUQQoYvqh

imLBHwKCloahHsdcGhUummcvhpriNi

dlAqpZPNoZsVIjc

In the meditation courtyard.aFirAMbgpRUVIVYXuCZJHDaXQMKtWI

kNHnuUgNRPoNBJR

Li Wuting was sitting at a table reading scriptures.sQmrpRrXuYSrlfJAedahNqSdBaqNVD

DZTBsFlLsxvwFZB

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.KiifnvCqrWrqxUifSiqLamMtEEMNMk

KRUtqLfbVVDGqRl

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

LSHXSuujyPXjZcM

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

yFRbpnKGRAaXXRE

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

uJSOchFJokgQJiL

He frowned, “Why the panic?”ohnoXDqIfAwVCjEQtHMIssqLDSzYLw

mYZMXqHmocdhckx

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

XtuZaZtApbDLrRX

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

zMfbwjxeTxSlAsg
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Yume

This clever little bunny. 🐇