This official is so weak

Ning Rushen held the candle and walked further into the tunnel.RhnMzGSreoSENYZlpXcSGIYqBFNmgb

TYgnklCsqSXoqMt

Ahead was pitch black, and he had no idea how much further he needed to go.TSedcECcsSjcKXUmYJQzSgWEzXBBDU

EkqLXEBjBOXSruL

He suddenly felt uneasy: Could this really lead to the Dragon’s Lair?FDmaAvLqzkXmFxKOiTgAVoxmRBIzbb

ezpIKLSLEmODyqC

What if it hides some royal secret, like a giant skeleton sitting at the end of the passage…tjKKeLptGvjIXrvdeTvXYnVleSKdPv

NZpAqKYpFwMoGdQ

Or perhaps, there was no end to the path at all…rtbBDHJQgYqHtWsmhayGHyNKPYocHE

FdSwmeQndwNTQwC

As his thoughts scattered, a faint sound of footsteps suddenly reached his ears from ahead.BLBqrPkdrybfDKKMIUAukZKgHfSMMU

tAVxoniENWevnVq

Ning Rushen’s heart tightened instantly, and he stopped.CBMmYEcfyuMuGQujHNsEdfywCcvIqY

tVBYnmuLkFqRrgj

Just as he reached the corner of the hidden passage, the candlelight illuminated the corner of the wall a meter ahead.yMKwEWagloHAncoTyGuiUffdaGgsZW

nZRDqRVcInHDzMy

The next moment, a figure suddenly flashed by.HbOUCpHgjnzWSSqeldFUjQuMgvafGH

NefbDANEFqmlcpv

He was so startled that his whole body tensed!VKVtKszDDTklFnGFueHnItAWzbCSGF

OhHjNtEIdsBoDuc

The candlestick nearly slipped from his hand, but it was quickly steadied by someone else. At the same time, his wrist was gently held, the warmth of the person’s palm soothing.OTCcdXveBLarjndnLLcDyHMzrhOTec

PrIWvGKtYSsImYU

When Ning Rushen looked up, he saw Li Wuting standing in front of him, wearing a bright yellow outer garment draped over his shoulders, and a nightgown underneath. His handsome features appeared more defined in the flickering candlelight.vCdJQxifkNYjleRcEnapFkDvXuCmbP

ZFeJHAFPyjEgzUy

“Did I scare you?”jEejfzedMslHcczDIDmVwIKCrhqHlw

jeISpQYYPLigraY

“… Do you even need to ask?”MqmoUDTyHJsmNXuOweobCioaTxHrRy

gHCMQIHqRPHJTCE

Ning Rushen’s heart hadn’t calmed yet. “Your Majesty?”LZhqcvklvcHOvCfkIqBpvpqyrVHkqj

xTKfjWoXEZTtdCb

At this moment, he was only wearing a thin inner garment, with his dark hair spilling over his shoulders, his face soft and delicate in the candlelight.npvZOdyZdbqWHarlLWYjSstWfbTIGo

riXcmegdOTkFwKi

His eyes were slightly widened, as if still in shock.vbKfYXqFTCnAWBZrhmNdIkXidvmqWT

GYdupiWAVgPGnLq

Li Wuting couldn’t help but pull him into an embrace. The warmth of his chest was overwhelming, and inwardly, he sighed:yBjDYuLfBUcwgiiQwKfIpXVRjdIhfY

cZevDKSGgYcnzbA

“How did you find me?”SozLEDZrEVMNzKPCwermKmXyStZHOm

kmlSTRqFiucRAiO

In the quiet tunnel, there was no one else around.QHxZYnrQwWxsvSqWqTohLtGiamishi

HKHJwQiCCgmwZZO

Ning Rushen, now wrapped in the warmth of Li Wuting’s arms, finally regained his senses. He couldn’t quite explain it, but mumbled, “It… was just a flash.”iZZImWNLDykKXMWaZhnAiUdHIQfGUo

XfICqqIhhDRaYkO

Li Wuting, “… ”qMourkGCAcCgGzibJjPqApEQodbaow

mDWCvZhGUdbHdlQ

Li Wuting seemed at a loss for words, pausing before tilting his head. “Shall we go back to sleep?”BJequjMIsjebbZCczMYsnWJaLWbBue

TVACaopmKDSsDAx

Ning Rushen responded, then suddenly realized that they had successfully met up, feeling unexpectedly happy. “Where shall we sleep?”tVBNPYKFaIUGhHqrfwaNqJVVpKHwQu

BKtLojMjxGSrDtP

“It’s still far back. It won’t be convenient for you to return to the residence tomorrow morning.”waHntESEpsptBLnXJlaVREdIPGpkFV

LKoxHHrKLwUlalQ

Behind them, less than a hundred meters away, was his main bedroom.CuXaqeAloxnApbgzbyTZiwSSUxulwm

JuPIqKZorvNidPz

Ning Rushen’s heart warmed. “Then, let’s go to my place.”uHjSHwsEasXHoXdVXDYlSymrMXeaTd

mKvEdmwDFTXuAvs

The emperor before him pressed his lips together, suppressing the modest joy he felt. “Mhm.”
Ning Rushen turned around, but as soon as he took a step, he was pulled back. Li Wuting’s gaze fell on his feet—his slender feet were only covered by socks, nearly bare as they touched the ground.ZPBQeOFRoTFRHcBOUWFRGKfvHydjVi

oUgxzceWxHvkeEU

He exhaled softly. “You’re being reckless again.”iBVRDfYmaUtxyxkyPJztwcHTBbuItL

XHQcfnajrricjbA

Before Ning Rushen could react, his feet suddenly left the ground, and he was swept into Li Wuting’s arms.CXukcyJdAXnQVGCXekqXbzaxNlxjgu

bQZZLRKRTakJZkz

He was startled for a moment, instinctively tightening his hold around the other’s neck. “Your Majesty!”fNdPERtzriEAOTMuLMTYRstTvYWlPD

LzYpoaoCdkNlKrW

“Don’t move around. Hold on tight.”mqGcdCGYypQZysZpIxukGwYfKlcwfq

xDcXQYXGeYDTDVx

Li Wuting held the candle with one hand and supported him with the other, walking back without breaking a sweat.ffdyvNNTYuWxPaMOacbqAfgTafxEPo

xmbprGskYSpyjZw

“…”aNXIWqfbGXYPstkFWaAAhrCdYsGQzj

cNXxDlEJlLcJshQ

Ning Rushen, still trembling, clung to him in confusion: Is this… normal?dlyNjDJOnjacmJxftFyOkWkfzLJgol

aloXycxoWNLeZOY

…ijoUfwLcDEqaAMAgSgVTZultlAIfiI

oapBRrezECXmLhM

It wasn’t long before they reached the end of the tunnel.FQwSESQIftFiRSYTfFLCJFJFHNWvCl

kMdNXZxoOiHhMMs

Li Wuting fiddled with something by the wall, and the door opened again.StYOcbSYMVRriKiVVZfbadhBtFhphK

JrHCyiRWwNPqYMz

A bright moonbeam streamed into the room, illuminating the private space beyond the door.NbcBMOtleQbHXIyUdQexinsZJjARPa

VhrVYsMPoWtrOyy

Ning Rushen was set down and immediately took the candle to place it back on the desk. Outside, Yan Min, the night guard, and Shi Yi, the groundskeeper, were still on watch. Just as he was about to extinguish the candle, he turned to find Li Wuting still standing there.ciGwWFHTIvdcgWxhaswexpbHiqLtMz

fPNtNJMsjZLRnJz

“What’s wrong?”tqBfjqVIuTUPvQWdLnGBWKpyxCKwgg

KZPtEXTVZQlZgEp

Li Wuting clenched his fingers in front of him, his posture upright and formal. “I… think I’m a little nervous.”RdtKsgiWJRvaEToDMfPgGvUTikTiId

gdHfexOiVtdHccj

Ning Rushen’s throat moved, his heart skipping a beat.PJZAgtrcoHwkzHrqBxhLoYrjsrgslu

gxukypeENdPAxKt

He hadn’t felt anything before, but now, he was caught up in the same nervousness. He turned to blow out the candle and then casually sat back down at the edge of the bed, trying to act calm as he patted the space beside him.yfduALhesPDJBIScITORdPJvGNHBce

vOUIfUhbxkRyoWR

“Come… Come up. Treat it like your own home.”pPTqKzOPIxiNXrUzpoMLRzZMcbxJft

ULzocztgnifXjmi

“…”sFxyScxQeFGVUhIjIAHtvwPDVVNvef

KefCdgOMONPjjWI

Li Wuting moved closer, walking over to the bed.FETOjcuJnjzHwCvsKXtQEHLNPBbSNR

uePPSVTIENuPDqc

The bed curtain was drawn down, and the two of them lay together on the bed. The tightly pulled drapes blocked out the moonlight outside.gbBaTglNFjqTHBcReCFqGcotXMckmN

GriuSPqPhYBxbLa

As the blanket covered them, Ning Rushen was pulled into Li Wuting’s arms.HhTkDmjppKpdVkerHAvDNoEleolSGx

QaAepSjrrJJTZHy

Li Wuting casually asked, “What, is this not considered my home?”gYPqKyRxUzIAErNrtxZVMQBPrsZGOJ

eLOscNWqzMYtJDp

“…” Why is he being so particular with words? “I guess so.”YKmuKkteNeooVWtcuJVDUWlIJrgrFM

vOqmmRhJRDlxKOq

The hand on his back patted him with satisfaction. Li Wuting then asked, “So, what brings you here tonight?”EqZUcGvEahpFWClGHsUXSyrLzGcjGJ

EyZdYTENnfKRrCB

Ning Rushen, trapped in his embrace, countered with a question, “What about you, Your Majesty?”FpGsgUfDymAHlNaRuDIeuGIQicqwro

YVHmbkStNcSVgTq

Li Wuting answered, “I just wanted to see you. Couldn’t sleep.”SywPxeceSBkayDcrGnOGnekuklWMfM

mDttcSdIcHJSszQ

Ning Rushen’s heart skipped a beat: Who says something like that so plainly…!iesVSYUMSHZvhAfHMdQVBkjMBMiYTX

keQAIZTFdgxWqKh

He grasped the fabric of Li Wuting’s clothing, suddenly reminded of the letter Li Wuting had sent him before—EpbNfmemeHlWeNqFYhQDyAlZmMeoLo

ChOawURMutSRaWE

“Just like when I went to the Northern Border?”qtZlQtJVgbDKwhXbPbqsOiQPHMwcdE

IqYtfuvyvaqerjj

There was a brief silence, as if Li Wuting was seriously considering his words.JmeVSRLjDFwmocAxcwlHWgxJJRDdmg

SeSqJUZflwJORfi

Then, the embrace tightened a bit more, and Li Wuting buried his face in Ning Rushen’s shoulder, his voice hushed, “I want you more than that time.”jiZRtLUYDFEkUcJNuiJfHaKanSSxLu

APoxbgloqvQRAqq

Ning Rushen was moved, but suddenly felt the weight of Li Wuting’s body shift closer.MNaGderoNSIemWErFZJnoYUtGnBPpb

unyCpCmKRBFRYGa

“…” It seems he really does want it.gqGtupTHGHnClryuCITeapJDpXacIw

rIIMzwXOwZjHoHQ

Ning Rushen’s face flushed, and he shifted his neck awkwardly. Then, he heard Li Wuting ask, with both desire and formality, “Do you want it?”vSivvSgxoqWszSuBihMvJeSjkWxUjI

PhuFftPTcfxyeiq

He feigned hesitation, thinking for a full second, then replied, “… Yes.”OfMDJvNZJnrmajXbsedcWlzPkkgWvl

gxtwSSSIivGBCrq

The bed curtain fell, hiding the intimate scene.umLuJwxJCwDMxfYHHaKkrsGcHTEpEy

lTXrsnlwGQXINCE

Under the moonlight, only the faint rustling of the gauze could be heard, and the beams of the bed frame swayed slightly, casting a thin stream of light.XYPjCCSpyYTyTKTOQHijCkkkdQYEHN

WhqtcLGLpOVzZdy

“`ZFJuNxnVZKalapMvTkkYJfIBtZAOXH

SVBrPDgBSTpNwCy

The next morning, Li Wuting left.xaIpgOFblrxamObAAhtjNzAYFVxTny

ttWAgzgbPDzXolm

As Yan Min entered the room, he was surprised to see his usually bed-loving master already sitting on the edge of the bed.hOKnpdwMFhYMJrBxUTSkyLTDkxGKjY

OzBMXlnKNiCurZr

“Why are you up so early today, my lord?”IDNEVwJdIZJhiQlFMEgNwTxsWDeHcF

UOvicXDjIjinKZU

Ning Rushen, with a calm expression, finished putting on his official robe. He thought to himself, Luckily, Li Wuting left quickly, the tunnel just closed.eLZRgfAGxlKGhzdJLTsEhIrqGmBQqx

xRAlLjytSIuzPrA

He spoke seriously, “I used to have no choice, but from today, I want to be an active and positive…”xaGQdfBfsxVUWeGCZZrmBoWmAgBxLL

YJUGTvTBjOqTMpW

As he stood up, a bright yellow sash suddenly slid off the bed and onto the floor.uToCKMnwoZiUAvGAhduAMgaakcuUsz

kFPgGPXrcAsUjYT

Both of their gazes immediately fell to it. Damn! Ning Rushen’s pupils contracted, and he quickly scooped it up, tossing it behind him.mpoUypclbvEVuZRNtSLhitzzAxMQet

nfziuAEsDbaICWo

Yan Min blinked, “What is this…?”OXdXaMbOcCIbWHboJLIYjYlqSNxLvt

FPCsRFHbmamJmtp

The rare yellow fabric was incredibly eye-catching.ZAELixtZaqvqudeZygafQvRsiwqXta

qfbgnleydjQSVOp

Ning Rushen, still flustered, rubbed it a few times before stuffing it under the pillow. “It’s a holy item I got from the temple, helps with sleep.”CLFUrADyEmcSGbwhjeDmTlBwzyEFgB

mRxMAwgLoHaflTZ

Yan Min was confused, “Oh, I see.”VFdkOtdzhoLcnPDKrIABydZtzzKcUI

BmfqUiVoqxQeUIU

Ning Rushen’s heart raced: Li Wuting really…NSetJXlRPuHLaAWWMslWDJcshREXXh

vlSONiapqAmSFID

Why did he leave him a little ‘souvenir’?rLuZBTUNDsgYpZiTnnedxNkCcwnuqV

oEmBMFxHqDIUBpO

In the following days, court affairs continued to be busy.xbHYwQUaduvyrfHFwgrLONlclAjqac

qInsqUjYQeSSNIB

—Especially as November rolled in, and with the end of the year approaching, both the cabinet and the six ministries were in full preparation mode.ntGbjDvGITUhUZYUDMSvlxprgBUlrk

VsNMuKqNbHUqKHq

Ning Rushen was so busy every day, he felt like he was spinning in circles.qweMvdGFQeMslGjQsXWjwdYuPFdaeE

zjECbNopprNpUrh

Thankfully, there was a hidden, almost miraculous way to recover his energy—every now and then, Li Wuting would return with some support.XMSINFmUvTnNIlWtfYKpGCfrBtJbOz

HUWfUEcFGzvRANQ

At the moment, Ning Rushen was in the Wenhua Hall sorting and reviewing memorials.xNSMYCZqawvaTtfXFnvvImsVjoViJn

UfsDGhdOOKdaCIW

The memorials covered a wide range of topics, and each had to be prioritized according to its importance. He had just finished going through reports about banditry when his thoughts wandered back to Li Wuting’s words the other day about “pacification”…UmSkicvvvfVEHllEDLSoPHjNqLevac

OrDNFqQhjIAtqUB

As he flipped open the next memorial, he was taken aback when he saw the words “Taking a Consort.”wDfgQVjCpTDCCiulfeYtetPEpZOYfM

KMjgVjxkRsFiRwK

Ning Rushen froze for a moment, stunned.GBBszPvLXarJLMEKfmgCEPkLozxtkL

RbsKyKlHnUoZwlk

Beside him, Ji Jie, who was responsible for the final review, noticed his pause and turned to him. “What’s wrong?”XNfbtoMyryHSCvAwtXCmJEmgPWZaDT

DGZxssaDpihtsQu

Ning Rushen couldn’t find the words immediately.OeVNyYycIQZskxEEFQrVsVoKeauEoM

ZOAdYkSqmDYOKYV

After all, the memorial seemed perfectly normal: to the public, Li Wuting was the emperor of the Great Cheng dynasty, and it was expected that he would take a consort and establish a queen.oBnqsnyxAwuDKDDBTUtlaDLbQtceRm

ukixDprfphWVwhK

He didn’t doubt Li Wuting’s feelings for him.FZyWaOpOARgYOXKUgBbcWkLZDtHmwB

vgpZmTjiCiWDxQm

But… He flipped through the pile of memorials again: So many ministers eyeing the position beside the emperor…onlfNjIdMChqkHWILOTALfENkVVxKf

dnypEXnZehFaOYK

What should Li Wuting do?nPOExyzbcmqxSerMQbLeItLhsIABww

uXFvIagVbVcddNx

Thoughts swirled in Ning Rushen’s mind. Ji Jie, noticing that he hadn’t said anything, leaned over curiously to take a look:hJbsOBKGLKXtszqsUQFlnLkRNJitmV

QCxpaHeENrkLvFc

“Oh, when His Majesty first ascended the throne, the factions in the court were still in turmoil, so it wasn’t a priority. Later, His Majesty personally led an expedition, and this matter was temporarily set aside…”BCGTqgHYjtqcwqrPCbujBNjQBVcKPv

rpBeghnxWPQpufn

“Now that the four corners are peaceful, it’s naturally time to bring it up.”lopVUkxYEJfDZCbzreNytzJOyUfRwK

TnztmNqTkjXYOvT

Ji Jie sighed, “It’s a pity that Lord Ning has no sisters at home. Otherwise, he could have at least been sent to the palace and made a consort.”sXqEBTqXPChYEmNvXRNURKXjCEKDsi

EnGqPDiIfoZXueO

“…”vReiRirXGvLwcmbSrafxuQxBlTkMiE

seOfBExxIFjBzlT

Ning Rushen swallowed hard, thinking to himself, I’ve already been there in person.FmTxHnkHLlpSPEZWWlStJwxPghfchK

LgqmcDeHwKmhOCk

He handed the stack of memorials to Ji Jie and mumbled, “I suppose so.”dPFNzBakkNyGzOiKaUHghwcFrkxeOd

zMODiEeLexjCVDb

Once the memorials were sorted, they had to be presented.lgeNGWeVWUDWkgaJshMozjJALuATXd

JbBsCBegikBWeWr

Ji Jie finished his final review and turned to Ning Rushen, “Lord Ning, please take this to His Majesty today.”hZapnCUwmkOUnfmoDeecoUrYASrgBK

VoquvmejJGIdULM

“Alright,” Ning Rushen replied, glancing at the memorials. The very first one was the memorial advising to “take a consort.”QniwcjnsPdUHQWRCXSTydTmtpiSIlh

GdmJnwueiVTmIpw

He pursed his lips but didn’t move it, holding it tightly as he went to find Li Wuting.WhqSZsynwzxIpjdZMwIYVnUKwaCrFU

swAizSYVbArgdPJ

Entering the Imperial Study.jbTIPvxIYTmpPtZPQyBoLEoSwmVLTI

SDnzRclmTUdKuvx

Li Wuting was holding a brush, writing something. Upon seeing Ning Rushen, the furrow between his brows relaxed. “You’re here.”mJGeOdbDWIMQjdjcplXWFZOCUtkApf

TlLgdyTmAnyEMyr

Ning Rushen gave a faint hum, placing the memorials on the emperor’s desk.degWgkvptFXVPkqlarGFlcPfiFYCNt

FpMbjxupQumMKGr

It seemed that Li Wuting sensed his distracted mood today and, feeling somewhat indifferent, he blinked. He pushed a stack of memorials toward Ning Rushen, whose gaze was immediately drawn to them. He casually opened the first one—lGjSDeLfkVdTCysMsVYjQbrvhJuGNw

KuFfCCgWUcNjbUD

The words “Take a Consort” suddenly caught his eye.JbyzrIJujfyFnZjoPMkwCfrNyYthfX

mkmYMuQVHJXrRjo

Li Wuting froze for a moment and then looked at Ning Rushen. “…Did you read it?”KxdAHdYSeIlEaqXUKOrzhgJwKcPEuv

svzYsNnOnuYMcnb

Ning Rushen tried to act natural. “I don’t pick memorials based on my feelings.”ksldNBOIDpEIVDUwpeEHpVgQSdZWev

UcDvrUHwtYeyEkq

The room fell silent for a few moments.fhXBDOcSRvcaeGiuNhcxbHxJfTgIos

PTvPyfEiPWCtEmO

Li Wuting suddenly spoke, “Everyone, out.”QcGsEkqXUoRvCmsEMJAwtkRwswqrJj

TdHlqWXiSskvQEX

Dequan immediately led the palace servants out with a rustling sound.OjmUJUAnGEoUmrvCuvUFwSqbWusnjn

gdrzjyDVOqZumvC

Ning Rushen glanced up, confused. What’s going on?xHYFHWVTGpGaqHgFqObTIpJfvTLJiy

kythBPzEOxgzLkC

As the door to the Imperial Study closed, Li Wuting had already walked up to him. Before he could even get a good look at his expression, he was pulled into an embrace.TmzlJvWENEBrMNMoleshlCjZoANGNT

SeyXFjWzYzLJVMW

Li Wuting’s arms tightened around him. “I’m not taking a consort.”wCyTYLgMhpkByrGUULowwjZQwpQrDU

nKDbkayPBHdXUOQ

Ning Rushen’s heart jolted, and the remaining clouds of doubt disappeared. He grasped Li Wuting’s sleeve. “Is it because…?”WbBTAAdUXoXJXSDavZyyLkdJVolWZk

jMLzCQxXjiZlsPV

“You know why.”VjozZkXnJDqkcSOluQkwBTOpUpfIzC

tmPNrKMHilUgbHl

Li Wuting closed his eyes and whispered in his ear.KbosWJrbjwAyWQDZBHDffSJnCGlxix

SwgnObjSDSTzXhj

His large hand gently caressed the back of Ning Rushen’s neck, stroking it twice. After a pause, he pulled back slightly, his voice a bit hoarse. “I won’t have a wife or heirs.”fqGHAKVQIbQwBqPTVcpNekEHLdLFfx

LFKHQaoIcLIYUgf

Ning Rushen gazed deeply into his focused, profound eyes. “Mm.”zinjbxoWMNWhotNophIujJgWmGrBSH

VmxZufLGhrnwBPw

“But what I feel for you… is not because I don’t have a wife or heirs.”GcCUmKLKUbKlkmpDjOCdEQqgrxSaQY

ZSNSxULriOijPHu

Li Wuting’s gaze was intense as he took Ning Rushen’s hand and placed it over his chest. The strong and rhythmic beating of his heart surged against his palm, clearly conveying his deep emotions.iFhbJaOkyWBPuzXIMIZNkaJjeCSpDK

DaaXDICeZLAJnwS

“…Do you understand?”lPNmlzyiiMeheDRWXTivHYGsnQwkLA

ggFKMDkKqFaIVyr

Ning Rushen’s fingertips trembled as they felt the heat from his chest.ttkdBxEuVHiILcgDgjOWYSxKiNiVhH

rQoCAwSERFawVHz

He withdrew his hand, and in the brief moment when Li Wuting’s breathing hitched, he leaned in and kissed him.oASSIWWczYcbXwNMxJFoZDFjYCufZd

kxzwPkwHjcGjgQC

“Your Majesty, I feel the same.”wCteURSlWqKJkKrMzrWJVsCbaDhWJi

ZpiefOBvwfnJcPs

As the words left his lips, his eyes suddenly welled up with tears.RimLBPDFPAFTPafhPvrybNKVPuQdVp

TAXwkcUZdsZhmMK

Emotions surged inside him, filled with a raw, yet tender love, making his nose tingle.hPRnhkhVgKptYDLlovKsXNBuHDwHGQ

YNIuuVMbLBBHrAN

The emperor, seeming moved, pulled him back into his embrace, pressing him against the desk. “Feel the same about what?”VUUmiRMwFWccyOjnfxRrouofEikDRa

ljuUImZOWKYymxu

Ning Rushen rubbed his lips against Li Wuting’s and took his hand, pressing it against his own chest.FmENIGniOXRcxfKGWGQuvsRPXpaPRX

mwxflEVrvSGcgLj

Li Wuting’s large hand wrapped around him. He had originally wanted Ning Rushen to feel his heartbeat, but suddenly his hand was shuddered with a tremor and fell limply onto the desk. “Mmm…”sBdCToUArFYMQnaIgPTmjvhLGEjVQa

MfPGfqGPoCLyEmu

The world spun as his vision blurred, his head resting against the beams of the Imperial Study.mYujyzLudIyZTDQoevornWcLbNKhrB

tytiZZwxrSxqlTP

The memorial advising to take a consort was swept aside and fell onto the floor with a rustling sound.ElHvHxQJNPBoMCqgYldCJmNrcPvzQK

UvUludtsNQgpKrD

Li Wuting pressed forward and kissed his subject on the solemn and sacred imperial desk.izZAlSCpJMHhvyRrQsCdeozjbKCTlw

RfXxMvleMRKfPjU

Ning Rushen wrapped his arms around the flushed neck of the man, with messy memorials and books scattered underneath him. The bright red official robes were draped across the table, and one hand supported his leg. “Hah…”YgzIAekfOLXSJkQODMMoLJCZOxtonD

VChoGSjtfMEEFdy

Their lips and tongues intertwined, emotions stirring.PnoqcJrPuLZeZRXOZUkwYxMdJCqjII

eBgUzgiQKzjPMTe

Ning Rushen’s eyelashes were moist, his breath erratic and hurried, his thoughts muddled, as if his mind had been stirred into a pot of hot porridge.kFGKFUIsUUGUSUdPBVevOcNppPfHIT

FYrHMuAJjAeqmEm

In the meticulously arranged imperial study, it had become unbearably heated.MOjzbLFzjPBdtayNFoAAtCHStUOfxB

lnmXOvHYbFhoqGj

The imperial brush dipped in cinnabar was knocked over on the desk, spilling brilliant vermilion ink, which stained the sleeve. Amid his fevered trembling, Ning Rushen’s hand slid down the desk, and the cinnabar ink accidentally stained his fingertip.GPmMVgFXHBYaTEaZhSLbxkCXAqizni

ftlyTcijkaXoYHE

His jade-white fingertip now seemed tainted with rouge.FYAhhKAAgZJezqCTIIerTTGTEpUIjp

yiUdqTGnnfCABbn

As the emperor, unable to control himself, leaned down to kiss the side of his neck, Ning Rushen pressed a hand to his lips, a trace of red ink brushing his lips.JfbGOnlqzldwpOvTKFCLMKdSPRinBK

xZUzgZDVdMEKNwT

“Your Majesty…”mEYKyqmARIbbjxaLnMNoIFOEhiwVio

VxSWJoOehomfJCH

Hearing this, Li Wuting propped himself up, his heart stirred as he saw Ning Rushen’s gazing eyes, the faint red tint on his lips. His stable hand nearly failed to support him.EASKxRIkOfwlELpGcKgHNXRFDIXmEz

qjkkDMgznARWadQ

After a brief moment of distraction, he quickly became aware. “Don’t lick.”QMbbpfVezOBsyQPhsZdTzZCbhCJWSh

AdIESbUwwaUKiMT

He pressed his finger to Ning Rushen’s lips. “Cinnabar is toxic.”YBehrBZhlvRJzXOlgdGQtNmrgeefKI

VteDqskzrwuFsrp

“Mm…” Ning Rushen, with his lips pressed, couldn’t close his mouth. His official robes were in disarray, scattered across the imperial desk.jJTxrRMJFPARQkBcZvhqnFsgRRwsdP

YIvOaNxzqahXBcO

He seemed to be immersed in strong wine, his gaze soft and intoxicated.OISoTiSvGBzFCiYjAWKpOwEuJNEbKJ

dIQGYCfMgidpYCK

When he was pulled up by the waist and gently held by the emperor, a hand patted his back, and only then did he come back to himself.fLqdtmwiwwPymIRuAdYxtlIIKIiqwY

FsiowKlcEsUOaYj

A voice rang out from above. “Dequan, bring water and a dry cloth.”LeToEmVJPuBwazeCauTgWFObmJGtIh

uQuJcZvtUmUqdUH

There was movement outside the imperial study, and the door soon creaked open.LmWkreaGUsFGpTBYHvqmDhrOcBXxay

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Dequan entered with a basin of water and a cloth, instinctively closing his senses, raising his hand to present them.oRHOkqxaHdVreIFfibQsgMmJyNvcgM

VCEVAhmPvzVLOrH

Ning Rushen saw the water basin coming so close to the emperor’s face and thought:eQdMgoYUzJEOLDTOwDDWCCLzOteptw

hgKOGNgIKMJwKVo

…What exactly is Dequan doing? If one didn’t know better, they might think he’s trying to feed Li Wuting face-wash water.GtxMjBzESMjvXRbdihgBgGIUNYVXgG

NpNpmAPXDwqJTUi

Li Wuting lowered his eyes. “What are you doing?”kbYWucQlYmHoszWmDRxaxOKyvCZofp

tVISobiezkwrSMr

“?” Dequan secretly opened his eyes. Seeing that they were only slightly disheveled, he immediately regretted and stepped back a little, speaking in a remorseful tone.SAAdqinnDTGBjarAWMoAEgXgBptjIk

TqjMSrwpyddLjwe

“Your Majesty, forgive me! Please use the water.”hUFetpZTWwKWzoVBycpRDcpvKIzvEG

XlDVepLtUQPyiZF

Ning Rushen’s gaze met the familiar face, and the door to his realization opened.vvlSHGiVxAhZgSJhEqkdPgOEEIrfMk

FCZAeMKJtuiSKZm

He dared not close his mouth, only trembling slightly as he adjusted his robe. This Dequan… always going off on his own!EIeHHucmbGVGWnTeyGbdYhPZhrSYao

UUCmlCQygsuZpNe

—Though, what just happened between them could definitely be considered chaotic as well.xAqYUtJXqUUphsCUwPAcawpLZRbtRZ

YSLgOlHxyOSafgN

“Come here.” Amid his wandering thoughts, Li Wuting pulled him over. The wet cloth wiped away the cinnabar from his lips. “You didn’t lick it?”GTIUhvNpfkTZfjIVOVJZDJYPVBRNMj

SqAwvYBxGGrQsBf

Ning Rushen opened his mouth. “Eh… I didn’t.”vZiwHnRyyKQQzjJldIpYEQiEBNyTxu

VCNCePNliZEXiMO

Li Wuting relaxed, his gaze lowering as he carefully wiped.DEQUUtcSCtPgkOdhXsBMrahrRLgLpE

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The imperial study quieted down once again.NsfxzJiKGifTYbZxZqDlfDeVHNAyWT

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The emotions that had been stirred earlier gradually calmed, and during the delicate and quiet wiping, a tender and intimate atmosphere emerged.dHPzKrvpLuEHYvZatixiRYxVjyltRe

uZYcrPVgXsNOMqa

Ning Rushen tilted his head, allowing Li Wuting to handle him.ZLxMQAHzpSmaoCSiJEGIuyzLoUxwSh

zNXRwKdEGvZAXTg

The wet cloth was pressed gently over his lips, wiping them until they were moist and red. Li Wuting paused, unable to resist and lowered his head to kiss him.trCSizHhFEAmiBdrLKiGWpfGhUAgPw

GiqWmWrzmnYYVGK

Ning Rushen jumped in fright. “Is it clean now?!”LCeOwwtNMfjYOMlskQahAnkAyNgBSh

IoyMZHiJUBnHhaq

He wouldn’t be poisoned by the kiss, would he?LCZvYiNlxYUgCxxwjuhDjSEzfrhvEc

VJphjieAkVkJIie

What would he say if the imperial doctor asks about it later?McguGwdvPPCZoyKHxSbJwoNGMzRWMs

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Li Wuting pressed his lips together. “Not bitter, it’s clean now.”ddRvRtGYyrJtlSdIAHjRffVbwHNaPx

vHqvKRlDLXBrYWq

Ning Rushen sighed in relief.besYLSqoYLuqscHHaHCcgUqBIuBkZI

nVlhIhPsMWqCjJs

His wrist was suddenly caught under the sleeve, and Li Wuting withdrew his fingers, looking at him for two moments before suddenly asking:VvtCCQVFRJSnXrjEqUbGCLktyuLcLE

EmSNhevVBlyjNPK

“Do you still mind?”fMJmNxNkqWHYXSChGiEWsuJPWYDYJo

oqDCoNBQMnEcont

Ning Rushen froze for a moment and raised his eyes.rjQotYDimLXDZRsDdkHwiJqZUHMIPy

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Li Wuting’s expression was calm yet focused, his tightened fingers showing a hint of nervousness.YbdarsTgijExYvIWsbNgWnfOUDVFao

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His heart felt like it was against his throat, and he gripped Li Wuting’s hand in return. “…I don’t mind.”KiPfRfiFjlElqssaNTUkEUrrJUeEcJ

ScqaEPoerIocusc

He never truly minded, though he was somewhat concerned.klUCyQLfXzausgCZVLQxFdAWTdBwUL

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Li Wuting relaxed, his brow softening as he smiled slightly. “Mm.”OElQVCuumEiarviZHEmdbfTzirRdfC

FqvjEDrpUGxgqpu

Ning Rushen couldn’t resist his look. His emotions were stirred deeply, and he looked away to regain his composure. “Then, what about the matter of the concubine?”PtcxppxWojNkpBrKNZZHJsmZEKUuxp

HWCdSzSyBKCjdSv

There had to be an explanation to the outside world.RIdIbSlzbbwGSVKWvnJFTcSDVQFBOO

jPqRhrxoHzMGZbV

The room fell silent for a moment, then Li Wuting spoke, “In a couple of days, I will visit Shaojue Temple and ask Master Jingxi for help.”ILksidAAzirdQTFVpfxeGMlEzwWoFZ

gIQydZFaAAXFvPh

Ning Rushen: …? Why would he go to the temple?KZMPsodjmLTvcCxOlLvTwIpWKOrYHf

hwjAKuErmMNSfBV

He suddenly looked at him in shock: Li Wuting wasn’t planning to avoid marrying the concubine by becoming a monk, was he?!gFgLXacpXKJzjcStAkDtSOpPUqsWKT

ENCRcROwcgsprDT

“Your Majesty, you don’t have to go to such lengths—”CuVdofGchJDavphqJkGIMmHjWAflCY

uexLVzmkOIUIExt

“Mm.” His lips were suddenly pinched.srgQMWJBCmKVSrkshHzRhRHBHEtzGl

xqtQDlBMiLkHKaP

Li Wuting squeezed his fingers. “What nonsense are you thinking? I have a matter to ask him. And…” He loosened his grip on his hand.EqEucwonawtQIxAmtKSBAZKfDAeYpC

YzyydZVOeUNcsit

Li Wuting lowered his eyes and smiled. “You should come with me.”onMgSvycRrxgFoiuzVwZnOiFEREmCg

WqAkXWhmAWvIpHH

Ning Rushen rubbed his face and looked at him, puzzled. “Huh?”XhbdpXqjjUCfZCYnMcJryunEhfrbQi

UTdBPqmsQIhhSTg

Two days later, they were going to Shaojue Temple.TteeOBWUXYqmrVrAnUMitvdgrEIwTO

kgprxlmPtHNHkdQ

Li Wuting also asked him to bring his household registration certificate.RotnTTmZDbTFukGVMgAxvBIywszRvg

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The registration certificate in Great Cheng was like a household register, and Ning Rushen kept thinking after returning to the manor:WBNzkNdSMVjsgCautaAOlUCgTSIBfg

sZaeyPBBtZybqnd

…What does this mean?HnxXmOPgvRitDZJHzZqefiJxOjUxwm

GgrHEivhEjHsRnQ

He remembered that Shaojue Temple still had the eternal light for the late Empress Xian, so was he overthinking this?ZhoWqCPskYQHlpnjNWULqfTsJPzMdN

qTsiqBhgskhLXGT

His heartbeat quickened, both excited and nervous.LWdSbAHeAYdlfLUlaFJiMkJvabknxs

CEMhnIfswIgyukg

When he returned to the manor, he immediately looked for Yan Min. “Uncle Yan, where is my household registration certificate?”OwYmbzaZvHyvimZJTaZaILvmQiSSAS

yhtgZufsOUbWzPX

Yan Min was surprised. “Why would you suddenly need that? It was packed at the bottom of the box when we moved, but I’ll go look for it.”OrBBRmJxHZCFtxteoZNakPHpRFLeDs

blEkVRgoDpLQBqt

Ning Rushen followed him closely. “Please find it quickly.”MjAYYtULtOzrpWskATdFzhJYVQQxvT

okWqRpFbvbfOvGA

The box was stored in a corner of the master bedroom.vsfjQWNOuiemezSLeoTTSYBJSZNdxO

EqJMNhRRyPwVHig

Yan Min opened it and quickly found a household registration certificate. “Here it is, my lord.”qqfwubYzckxFuftXLmYEdjhMzedcDJ

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“Oh.” Ning Rushen took it and looked at it.VNBpWaYHklkTnGgWPxoVpCpMxUFAbM

dwBebliNODPpnlw

The slightly yellowed certificate clearly stated his name, age, and place of origin: Ning Chen, born in the 22nd year of the Chengping era, from Qu Ning Shufang County…TSFamCzhdIDRoJlqPoNxwkZePrSZab

ufHLxVtWijRWiCG

Huh?uRuvvZegDpcXvOTvbsHBaXurJjBBKx

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Ning Rushen froze, his blood running cold.OjckvrYPyiczbyJnPSEjdWbIlTpcVZ

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Qu Ning, Shufang County??!!NHfyBaZqDzbePMbXcUWLTOOrDpFphb

JhRHdBRsDNYNXwy

His fingers trembled as he pointed at it. “Uncle Yan… what does this mean?”nTUoLJeTmdAfgQnCWylOesMceAwonL

MPNtOAbLGCwWfzt

Yan Min looked at it, confused. “Oh, that’s your ancestral hometown. Your family is from Qu Ning.”HyuBIFMKLLChVpLtWITbceHWndNOYt

xuYYubLccPuZqDG

…Qu Ning?! Ning Rushen was in shock:GaiwVzfbZCOCnFTJJoRXMXMfPOVyIS

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But I already made the people of Yuchuan eat steamed buns with meat filling!ZekAesAvfIEOvmPLPRtaOpxmTNTvBG

kUetnepQqmsyTnH