This official is so weak

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

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

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That night, the capital was brightly lit.ZFrxZtAGrNDtQGqnESmqldqlTltvfD

CYUkCbNXzRHqsIv

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

QiePtajOFQHBPgB

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

qAywrJHMhxsJdTV

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

wZXKehUHCuPzzFn

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

kHxzqRJAuRMgDIx

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

csllviqNLedgqAy

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

nowOZMbsgjxJjCO

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

bIfFtMbelJQdaxd

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

lqgPXrkzZolLZyH

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

qsxXLUiwSUmFXin

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

DhJoZkbKYhjOCIW

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

wmUoGTJcZqrkHLc

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

QPHXuSoqbNgFxZN

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

GvsxASbdobbgMXq

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

TArmGVolKSDkgBH

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.cIbFmvWVUDnaPFNhPXRwWLgLIMaUtt

ncrxApstanmzlbI

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

WhbXppDajgThHEQ

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.YzomFYsdLEeZjxzEnxNapiEsyqjqRw

LleDrHOCulLlrWj

This year’s celebration was as usual.NeGZXMKHsCUaTAfXWCMpxFoCtVpwBN

JChKrLiAIWWWiAZ

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

zchjhudKIiPxklu

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

oNufmCYlROHgZQR

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

GYZTsOFsGtbJbXu

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

hvUvrmCVdulUZLa

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

LUKhCrIGcqokTYw

“Why this year…”YNIyomITuxnfPjifQEptEAucrrOSBM

TRTGqVXfgLvYKHi

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

QvDhYBcEqtwPfWC

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

igKnaaqmcRgHKLb

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

VauXPphGZrQusky

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

fyUWDAIfemWrWBC

He then calmed down again, blinking: Yes.kTmqgCGzbrhXzLguxrAVSMlfZbXvsc

WHrdGOneamCUrbz

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

jQybyjFhtWlzpaF

Li Wuting nodded.lqZWfmaUXebHqOOGPOKbJAXdNFDTQg

rebcsjmHYebdAsA

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

zYIcZGtToQHXYrK

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

iYzPKbzbpjSffPf

“Your Majesty is wise—”dMmKtlIKLvMJnFUExtRQsPzAGOaqZy

SIgrNRGKEbOHnJh

“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.”ZYgNWxHYgkeQmivNXFSSlDLRZsJDGm

bofGNLnzMAqdrqu

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

EghfUCBMATIiggg

What does this mean!?mSoUbpbgJXHIcnBQtAvfVvlUgDKBJs

tuowJzHaAlHZvLw

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

MJrttWzRuFnwisF

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.”WwgvDdKcwcjDQNtGWukIrVixrcppvw

ZRokjNZzGIMcKbp

“Your Majesty!!!”VDLamdbHkzOkjtBfdAHgrsLLGreZXK

YBpexoORpJptbkW

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

iTDaqhUBxZUtoxp

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

EybwvTyuWRFRhQO

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.GPngYAFKpwaiOENOnHqJyXDScJwstw

WIKcINGpCZdqOzQ

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

OBxCrcIMbGAfrkF

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

TMQVcSTMgKVWaKj

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

lVuvifeEZEMEBAV

Their gazes collided, their hearts simultaneously stirred.LWHbBiFsphEfswOBhxnpIDUuXBphyy

CnjUmmUXWfmpDEK

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

hNmogLhsKUGwMNj

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

YgxgGbcrioziKKa

His emotions were deeply stirred: Your Majesty…ghHLdslHamTSIvbULeRwMFaxJXSpZT

ksHqBcKYOTdxREp

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:FitzUIvVZJPbnyPeGtHwFCjsTlZGsk

ussGvozKhDoaPmo

“Your Majesty is wise!”ssijDhpScWsnkRAxeZYZecksQgeTmH

rhhtENGrNTNmOlL

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

VWCZGBgJMauZzwQ

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

LYzvyXpcOeLliug

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

YswZXuhrFuSmfAM

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

jYTXOtEhNTiJEDK

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

HJUeRYbYJhtkChx

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

lcjRzhQurrCDXRm

Ning Rushen secretly looked up from his bow.zLfDtEFSfVoxjgohlXDxJCWItnIDow

ryohlzkxttvyCeA

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…ZojzfGEnhdFgcrUvLRZIeRSMwviWUQ

yulxbCkobhvZyji

Ning Rushen, “…”dudJHamazVMxYbNLtTMzuIXMtOXmKa

erJvQiqJWvoGfir

This little short leg, finally catching on.mTmDiAWCUevdFEImPvcPYKmQZvsQvt

XfFzYSawvdKuvsd

·ZYZGgwzOOqsrtOaKufOBqbPTGHXcmG

QTjQRkRGggfvOau

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

wJdoQgvunxQfZLa

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

toqvsJUHYWfcyrV

This celebration was grand.goMwXwFnrTrRYtyVcUEtJdQAjkqQLE

sUhlSAhPNdvVxNQ

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

boPoQQYCmpGGxck

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

KvEDbnqDwEkfgwE

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

WnbzBXbVjSIXvFC

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

lzCXbUqCRLtFfCb

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

pKCIBTNvoAMAQJd

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…”rmVNyDDQkNEscvFEzSXDnOxqZVDhwX

aYOcmyQKLvjgKDF

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

pPruKyCviJnBiPO

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

FKnPjhqwcrLZXNx

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.BaythyIziwkgfppaqnMigQkhMjJFha

cAichyoelJCQFuL

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

DgKUSsXVgeeybTl

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

pOowqhEMyvDQUPT

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

UsGxafFmfevwHEV

He hesitated in confusion: Why not?pzoxmglWZOPTEOnpvuUaVnicMAufyL

VaQKlSitJIvyQDX

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…”IqmZbeexhYhpwVZXBAGqLxPHhCHlnF

UuDMDXqiayjXWHn

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

XEOYEdIhzXYyUQw

“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—”bSEpdcIUXRpJFmgtzYbvmrCuMqTMNO

RLHcGlawwCkuBCW

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

SGZFqkhGjXaQoiy

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

IipFKzgywNIYHhD

…JZjevHnMisjPgnSQeSAXovsvZJXwyy

doWEHiElNRnZllR

The ceremony’s proceedings had ended.JWdRfBHIpDtIEqvqzcExNGhHsjCZUd

BtpKqJTLDLWKbpt

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

XFjVHYiOIcGdqtX

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

hlFYWYQISeaXHpH

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

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

PYukMlbMopNphUe

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…”jMzRxArxjFniOKvJjBTmWXUtPldBYG

jBtAZXNUkXQOaBI

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

gWBLFlHTyxcIAHV

“Come and see our Great Cheng.”fiRANJdVRnzvzjAWPwztQljQNtKYqe

uOprMwaNvjWCWQe

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:BBcdRqvXSvJEQwOVDMglGiGWWAnzFm

FwgMgAIlnfzsZDm

“And your lion dance.”ctOptaSrsOxWRvWFQSEtMjGHgbKTUI

IrCeUKuvCuItgrc

“…” His gaze fell.lgZIXjdeEJsnpyJfLKpRWZPfmiNRUK

iYPqVbBDikYXRsN

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

emqgsHJFDHZcqso

Ning Rushen swallowed.jnuzwCcopObtUwOIErlZhucMyCjueu

hJtoUNVSGbhInjm

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

jhzmCMJfonJOeSI

“…” Is there no end to this!XFVthBCHMsLIPFjohSqujOvepSHRnA

UPpTrRbbgRmwWvx

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

IOKsaJxOHWcayZZ

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

pKbsXaHGscTQyGm

The hand beneath the sleeve tightly held his.UcANREzqfQtwSbUEjOIPChoUTqIxjv

sbrJoEpoMUwztTz

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…”pqAxdcnLVFqqBXOYHPAEbVQiHbRLzl

IRdSqIreIMUyjYB

Almost as soon as the word began.zEQERNrxMhRqzSeeLdPQBpvrAAgLfc

lkalezePRcERPmc

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

nlAdqLIEjjkgNvT

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.xbYGJQQaHskGaKTaNPsMaLAhszhcDP

foEnYSCPqdPdaTE

Ning Rushen’s heart pounded rapidly.CMqRxZbeOgrvUnmjHfLwbWjGCGgMBL

QQBhGqUIWMOlWZK

Countless lights illuminated his clear eyes.hKdyXIBhbxurlZUoOKdOXhkTGFHjft

IXATDjmjgLHOraH

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

NYliziRDMkEYZNe

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

VnegsvpLEQHPHRx

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

sEOLyuXwyQPZkgP

·TBWGpRkvrNLdCmQYKvOdvTAmatWLVj

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

vsIbymdMwTFBwrT

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

clNjdcfIrsyYFrE

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

NtpgGiVvyhYEbxu

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!”rBEePaxzzTUnhInhmTwGzOOtXUynrl

JRnYrUuKsXAbDmT

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

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The sudden ripple was quickly calmed.PQOEvPcJigILHUueIfOOLqPwhhnAdf

DIDjXFTwSvMkAEO

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

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

oWNzpqNRvYbZlYd

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

nhfPZOgFzXJmeaI

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

duniXrNwDNkjxxQ

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

YmKCSEpSGUeHOgA

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

ttxfITBmGnIPFbJ

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

JhTENmzfzAtYljk

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

PpdewtDaaALkDRd

“…” The crying stopped abruptly.ZuwFMHXQxTmODZnaddrLIKNHLILdUn

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Ning Rushen sighed: Straightforward, reasonable.pbSuGlmThoRglLGAWNgKjCbNdScGMV

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

FeFCarInemXNnHz

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

gzbbRmhiuUULAiv

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:JTljtOQAinjfGHTWSnfiFCidGdYvUQ

ICFRsHLQpmEIxyo

“It’s okay, I understand.”vMLmXmEFSxZPIqOQAWZzSIZvbybgGy

xhkgDnCETmMAkBI

Ning Rushen: ?NPQPYOJhWHtKqprPcKuYHvfdBrYDLW

KFSsJQdKMaabVzO

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.”tOpZPSlVtQBjdDmFqvgyUCDbCjTWCC

jTwANCvMHObsRCY

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

BXTijDfsPblruxl

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

RoxdiCnUGLsUvdr

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

hEkCbcVkXfCEaev

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

bEkXwLeYrymzxgX

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

ZlbmWThEkDRPlHX

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

DCtaGbItuvZofRk

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

NRtzKCGBzWvlTsf

…nLLngmCKhAwBWLNWUDxXgdLRMMWtOI

IbZUPTBUPXENype

After a while, Li Wuting returned.tDmzrVkEUCXUaiLwurvFlIxSmzwOWA

ZLwZurJkuSZGcBD

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

VYXTnyvymbLByLc

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

URVsUZXpoxBiapz

Arriving at the palace, dismissing everyone.XPYRXkGFFnTcpHOFrHfYLzTByCJyaT

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

MOzXtGDfNBRCPEC

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

lJuArJEHmgXYkVy

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

DOxOSqxuRufBJrN

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

wYVvONzsbkIcFQX

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

geqCgLDGRwWsUdD

That Jingyu…xVkZofoscMzURKEYIRLnscLyoegIua

pbaFbcJvRnZKkme

He thought while drying his hands.eYvxAKZoGOjYxkKCLgRjulYYRPVvTy

IrVrdoGAGAOnrba

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

FqMaxYcQgUJyLlb

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

VTSGrEyVVnbFjYy

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

dsNlPSvTOxWNrEb

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

XrRyRNPMWXJonUe

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

SlmNrclLLfxrwFI

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

mCMftzlEIXwMDnV

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

liBAyXUFzfiVxNb

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

DKiCaLROcOtxhYn

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

aYlHhXjgvKPRTdQ

“…”RArHKiALdXiuYXfBCpQHxMKGFZSUse

AdjwgCxpICAxGES

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

LHRKHYicpWJoYXl

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

eOujoADQZRkhEBm

“No, mmm—”qcRwbQaweJphJfcnqOKVMvRgyMbrzD

PICudDeMcGoBuap

·iGClMwpjISCOdOTJLAcZebLXEDVeOD

lKoVxPrTkZghxbF

Lord Ning was “sick” again.gGkvCrVhlrqKqDUounlTMdBnRiGscz

ggpqiTaFAYZRFoa

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

zeOMEOLpBBWlHHF

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

IvoKNdvnVWAtCSS

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

ideDisNHfEPLbMx

He unconsciously touched his flat abdomen.hEHZBpPQMxFhDmXoftkovxeKiQfjHn

EhXXuZGbYBWjMbp

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

FMhbTiFZEgaliFC

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

UsySCPPqFNIxLoS

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

DDmLlccCmDFAslY

It was really too embarrassing!GKBxQrGEqhtwPBBkmvQJcCVOCVHmNU

rAPAshQLSZVTZPi

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

drOCffYNAtYYoLl

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

tNpoBWvHAAgaRpl

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

xlPwAYiahkPcLqm

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

ITanfUIANQTSuzh

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

YULWbKcLrQzgtrM

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

yFHRKOEWFfVWFzt

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

ypNBKbthIqJJVHX

The long hair draped behind him slightly puffed up.uPykAyTrUdyRoeDbTBiyIrGWVeQEka

qVxMPaKwpMsvRRC

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

VCWfAhnXxWbofzF

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

eIHCXpBOlUgkzyF

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:msKHZoOnXIwlxTCGNRXWIPcktldcDW

gzzSiMaaVDGFXjt

“Your Majesty, what brings you here?”CBFVlvygHNLgLOUqHLopeVlRupfSrC

cEsFMUDFgvcEBzJ

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

gliXkwFfgBUhRxZ

Really something? Ning Rushen looked at him.eFQVSIGYTRhVkGkHTZMruiYtFSxEVv

mOCoASVdgPwYaJe

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.”aCZNAMMnKRWxRUnXSNMrWJxbBpjeaG

iFhMYFoZJVqHYgK

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

rlYXdkldCbEGRaA

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

NfKmaWnwNNmcXkS

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

wsBXVCCHmlcGInd

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

CDUQSvRJKTDFTmC

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

MnShEgETujpTmZd

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

yhzZWSGJkAXjhtT

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

tXNPlUyUJuNHVth

—Li Wuting was serious.YdUuRwXtwhamJuIWHOEtrzdChrCKJE

GBioinnpWmMpZoc

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

WBlHjRGeDVLnvax

Li Wuting then naturally embraced him.NNoaBJzWkNCOrWvVfAgFcbSIxQsupN

LrlsVQolLVkoyTV

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

MeePCJiwBBwdzOG

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.KVLlAAKMmVpuUtaGHuVnTcFAXMHgHw

eywsWnUlnpfuLGh

Seeing his gaze, Li Wuting softly:QZFZwwfAdnwFVeXnGwmBXrsXRQsGIY

dPzhmCPGFFUcEEc

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

wTbuUTsphxceiFG

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

FCkFuXozAgZshaj

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

jLGsjmFSAUgwHKI

Li Wuting lowered his head: ?qQxiEIzlSBzVZHxQrZKTEetmHoHQls

aeUnnxlyXYbXffT

Ning Rushen magnanimously, “Compassion for all.”lJPoGDAlleNcFLbqeLMWQHsfdGMcOs

gWrzIGebZPhlETN

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

sCfUSalGemOHsHU

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

aXkrsUTMkygLEgm

“Then many breaths.”dCAyxEYOYMLjkrnTVtCmMxkEPnTnoj

npxXzrJlNIbghrK

“Can I?”AvXusGtwYhxDokFmuXuBWHfLUDZmpK

mZqproIezTEXdYw

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

YMytyIcxtZCcHvX

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

QTeNcUnhdxxHBYi

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

AvQgHHdqZDDUEkh

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

oZIzWdspQqTQlEQ

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

xBvjgkeqjMtBSuB

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

XyLIQFodBSxOMmo