This official is so weak

lVPbTpJWFthkuphTable of Contents

Chapter 23

Ning Rushen finished speaking, and the three present were all somewhat quiet.pYCBcDrWbRdbiqMFvQNeqfagfPrVBo

WgnscrPcaMSgdPI

The air flowed subtly, but it wasn’t clear where the problem lay.tyDGdZcRhFFrKpzSkTaDEApvBJcdHN

XfhTSmBqSkktyNn

After a while, Ning Rushen carefully pulled his sleeve away from Prince Xuan’s hand. “If you want to argue… don’t pull on my sleeve to do it.”kDKchFDlaMQeeAnjUlYCrEHNcaDGTj

tzHqEdqTbdXrFTT

Li Wuting massaged his temples, realizing belatedly that he had been inadvertently drawn into an argument with Ning Rushen.GqIwjqNGzXwgkCjZjoqPvzfacWzCWs

BdVKkeRKtyngGJP

“Enough, go back to the mansion and sort yourself out. We’ll give you a few more days of leeway, but don’t continue this endless entanglement,” Li Wuting said.YdEigjMUHkBLrgimJvavOcZGMFKsto

pXDUiybrYKQMGJh

Seeing that he couldn’t linger, Li Yingtang could only agree, “Alright. May I ask Your Majesty to return those papers to me?”opNXngaDaNHtPJufbeoiMAAmSxEKAD

RyfioalnIzJjVuU

Feeling a sense of generosity as the person was about to leave, Li Wuting said, “Granted.”WOlDpCzvwBKKiddhYnYHgAqFPnHhGu

jJyyteabbKqBlZE

Li Yingtang instantly felt smug. “Hah! I knew you didn’t throw them away!”VhCALYMzULzfqrcBzHfeDCTaCktlQV

rZMiOkVHIQXaJaB

Li Wuting turned and instructed his guard, “Go and collect the belongings for Prince Xuan.”aYuwCGLPwxBWefxgacpJubqZMZEPlC

bJzfJhTLfSVkTdP

Watching the desolate figure disappear down the steps, Ning Rushen withdrew his gaze, feeling emotional. “Why bother.”zKLnmufcPUxZPdaZyAVtURNZMqwLhs

DcmkRLUFYhPJBlz

He turned to Li Wuting, curious, “Your Majesty, what exactly is on those papers? Why can’t I see them? It’s like Pandora’s Box.”QkUjbjxnUjVIrnZWFtyREpLuhilkKB

ybpjAlmsUltsoOa

There was a momentary flicker on Li Wuting’s calm face, then it settled into a stern look as he replied, “It’s nothing. Didn’t I tell you to speak less with Prince Xuan?”qZOrQkLJEaHXsWfFUblFSNhzBxPpBi

bneckiXkLtuySnt

Ning Rushen’s mouth fell open: …jAHhKdDfTRbzVAFYEZGQlgajLYxlGX

VNHTOyAwWrYkVBn

He was clearly being dragged into this conversation.OPFAiWudSTlnlmQIJNxTSHmuYtNAjA

zyCVfkXwymrAvWX

The two of them stood on the steps, one higher and one lower, with Li Wuting able to see Ning Rushen’s neat row of small white teeth and the tip of his tongue when he looked down.znIDSHliFhJIkclotmNhVYwfqvgOFA

ShVIsiFATXhbtTX

“…Why are you opening your mouth so wide?” Li Wuting asked.vYwsuvYrqOROCQlHLXIXfuNkTWyVuf

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Ning Rushen’s tongue moved. “I’m having a chat with Your Majesty.”bbpryAUiaZiBPdhKMzrNDLSFBSturw

QnvIJJoeDWLFKDR

If only he could speak without making a sound.LhbJddlCAONpfdthQCLBQCXJbnWfkP

sedChAbkXDhxHgw

Li Wuting: …KqifoZAddFYGLTDmUoYZOfSpqsLmfU

gmhRwlVwhedGtMH

He lowered his eyes and stared at Ning Rushen’s wide-open mouth. His fingertips curled slightly, but he couldn’t help reaching out to lift his chin and close it gently. “No need, it’s bothering my eyes.”nnNKuBILlqeUsfPqvirQRuUnqIPwKZ

aQpmpyzEgkXHsHU

Ning Rushen made a sound of surprise, “Mm…!”ZyEBUdSighHVgIOoocoJlKNvPIDgeB

cDlYysBODhCCIZx

De Quan, who was nearby, glanced over sneakily: Oh my~vAMpsQvpqYjImVgZHjyVCAQCjXPDXQ

tVyqnRsFcMHpXdh

Prince Xuan’s departure from the capital was scheduled for the next day at three-quarters past noon.isspHDxQLEEOFJdBILbiZJomHcmLgt

FyVuNszuQdjiHhN

It felt more like going to an execution than to his fief.haFQxZauhAxREofePjEGkykIlRjwLJ

ltcUllKzHgcRLbT

Ning Rushen attended the morning court, estimating that he had enough time to go out of the city to see him off.FJAJamCxIDBJjANyEeIhxuHHKpUwDX

eWiCqKmGUgUIJlZ

As he was about to leave the palace gates, he was called out, “Master Ning!”VhwoQYAUHsORpnHhTDXHUcHeTkKcCf

nlWDybAsVWtJUml

Ning Rushen turned around to see Li Jingyu, a young man, walking out of the palace gates, accompanied by the cold-faced Li Wuting.oRgmZurAobPbazzHQIoydoMpnejUZl

nnNjjznlLuaLVGs

“Master Ning is also going to see the Second Prince off?” Li Jingyu asked.gIPfPkzyVgUdNSwQPHOSHcNLBhtGmJ

KpMbTeQuQookryU

“Yes,” Ning Rushen replied, then remembered Li Wuting’s advice to speak less with Prince Xuan. He rubbed his nose and glanced at Li Wuting, “To see him off,” he added silently.hHlInnLuoXWpGMCQQmgLirMSmppKGF

OLKjcvchZPqCskS

Li Wuting remained silent.OrgAHBhfnPPfqolgPEwAcJzbHOdhcU

LxSOIsNPOQelouf

Li Jingyu looked around, wondering if he needed to explain such a trivial matter to his elder brother. After a moment’s thought, he suggested, “Since Master Ning is also seeing off the Second Prince, why not join us on the way?”fmBWnguLUdlHWgCFLHToshCHYuKWBO

dnMaChBJJUdNbyp

Ning Rushen blinked and looked to Li Wuting for approval.gYvtKHyhnZxqKkrYLNLlEpHdsZkFtc

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Li Wuting casually replied, “Since Jingyu suggested it, get in the carriage.”mNMCuQtZGSFZRefIknLZomwUOfQnev

IawFLbFGTmDSHFg

“Thank you, Your Majesty, Your Highness,” Ning Rushen said before turning to Yan Min, who was waiting outside the carriage. He took a snow-colored cloak and instructed, “You go back to the mansion first.”SYQvTjqxwAgsjMSnNXZQEcHRGDgKJa

lKkVJcMhuFnfvSU

After speaking, Li Wuting and Li Yingtang boarded the imperial carriage.WFzPqruoxyDONwXLvyKyXTgIwzNaYV

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The carriage passed through the capital and arrived outside the city gates.vcCvIWRDajWEQXpsTIzPjiMUUXduSh

ZxzEBcuBIdQcTKN

As expected, Li Yingtang was still waiting by the inn, dressed in an elegant and noble moon-white robe, with a jade fan in hand, gazing into the distance with a lonely expression as desolate as snow.xnRBNMZtMKhLHCodnTmzQPJqBKYSEH

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The carriage stopped outside the inn.ztbFbyMVYwnreVfExtQURFlSvLrgMD

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When the lonely Li Yingtang turned his head, his eyes lit up!ycsOGsoJBeCanWexgOsQhduyVhfkMS

EizhborqYblwPXl

He saw Li Wuting and Li Jingyu getting off the carriage, his eyes moved, “I knew you would come to see me… Oh! Lord Ning is here too?”ZyPCRTJKrmAMtyIeTwwIiUXtANpSEK

rffDWqIuIYzRClF

His eyes instantly became even more intense.XRHbXZrUjjdWyJzZIGnnoofupZNeMc

EPIUAxttNWqjObp

When Ning Rushen got off the carriage and met his gaze, he almost stumbled from the intensity. Thinking of Li Yingtang’s desolate departure two days ago, a phrase popped into his mind:vcwTbkrHDJAovUAsZYhVjKvQrckrlC

UQuaDPPpluqdGvF

A rekindled fire from ashes.ZJAHdVbkBQspFfnZcaMFACViHpUObM

ZXWsvAHdtGVACWi

Ning Rushen forced a laugh, “Your Highness.”bdImmgqiqMyRzFLktqZpniDvXOeikB

XuqhgWwBucboAtV

Li Yingtang rubbed his hands together and peeked around, but was quickly interrupted by Li Wuting’s sharp gaze like a frosty blade:ybhTbXGlfTdmBZjUJaZzrxwbzWlusz

irACwbkpdcTOnOm

“There’s no need for us to see you off if you’re so eager.”iktWkRKHxKVqiKDBOsZPmBeaWDnbOy

HEuthsKWVgKNiJQ

He restrained his tone, “Of course, we should.”HiSNfTkzpJmAQLctUOwfgNnNiHCxhs

UbmZqvWjAHIxGih

The two brothers stood facing each other for a few moments, then Li Wuting’s tone softened, “Have you bid farewell to the Queen Mother?”cmkDMPwVmsFqpVRVEWfsFhcbzuRoxo

nrfkUMGdIyJkyLv

Li Yingtang bit his lip and whispered, “Yes, yesterday…”glHCFRVLryqUMRQYkQNbvoviJOuxXC

WnvrFuztAtiqlKD

Ning Rushen watched the three brothers chatting about family matters and consciously walked away, gazing at the scenery of the outskirts with his hands in his sleeves.GGBIlGbVGHiSUNVaEeFcAGxnxMMkYW

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The vast wilderness, the gentle breeze.uuCglpCpquaYAazfvVAzkGBIwoXdFS

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After a while, not far behind him, came the voice of Prince Xuan, “Lord Ning.”FygpIUODHcvpQFFFFHtCjdSoDcFKMi

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Ning Rushen turned around and saw that the three had finished their family chat.LYCasTyzNszmCFGxbszhVwUfsGVccv

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Li Yingtang opened his folding fan with a rustle, “Take a walk with me, I have something to discuss with you in private.”cWxsTIROrJPfrBNnoVBchKuQplpCEQ

qbTOJRBzUYbpade

Ning Rushen: ?vZbjDHxMdqKJOIQVyoekAqFfrCXMuh

EUYcniKFemNZVSq

Li Wuting’s eyes suddenly deepened, showing a hint of caution, “If you have something to say, say it here.”zxufFrauLunoHyhQrnvMNRTIrIbPiR

nKHfBgmgWJmZgwV

Li Yingtang said, “It’s a secret talk between women.”nCRGhufaRXKWmVlRGskRBiapbbKYqi

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Li Wuting: …FAUoIgCSBJROUEZoTxvWeVnhrsOpey

zsnsgFDLEzjFBDS

Ning Rushen: Who said anything about women?RnTWRutlFdhgEJKwcqDHgZCkwXkNXj

lWGmoVcwydPeAKN

Both fell into silence, especially Li Wuting, whose face was as dark as the night. Just then, Li Jingyu’s clothes were pulled down as he looked up in confusion:krEJgqWBQWTYqZUGeiDquLkPfoHqdv

JIjFHVZDSmxssOb

“Does Brother Emperor dislike Lord Ning being alone with other brothers?”UvCznSAYZVXFuXeLwfmaVvCORuggTy

ypzjDRFzmFlQTSu

“…”taTKfmXogBEgJJrtiMIwZNJUQfdogs

XiYxAtFTanaGHdc

A big hand lifted Li Jingyu up.PlBBRsPgjPZcBHeeTxEeQUYvIAkVXY

IpFObVkcansTOsv

Li Wuting glanced at Li Yingtang, with a faint warning, “Go have your girl talk.”BzFppDLIklDJBHZEHCXIUYccVPvMlU

gKRsmKPdSFFQuEl

The open countryside offered a vast, unobstructed view.OUeyQfHelqUtNBuJpEyLoAlRPfERXL

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The attendants stayed behind, and only Ning Rushen accompanied Prince Xuan on a stroll.zfRHFdQRVHVaKCxLRJNMSUyyqWbhgi

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Glancing at Prince Xuan’s profile, Ning Rushen couldn’t imagine what secret conversation they could have.JGiNcYBSVJzKSmuzxXGNvSKcqlVdES

erbWeBUXGsVVoRk

After walking for a while, Li Yingtang finally sighed and spoke, “Leaving the capital, I’m most worried about two people: my mother and the emperor. My mother has the emperor to look after her, but the emperor is shouldering everything alone… I really worry about him.”xycarFNzjzPmWKDySBaTOhKbhjWUgC

NrKjPPEddzdLnvp

“…”mYuLYoUPclaBJkziYvgRkqPifduibf

aPdoKOpJtxcwQIy

No, you’re the one who’s most worrying.yzEwqZmwhAjUmvDyLoYxCdHvQngWaE

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Ning Rushen didn’t know what to say and could only continue, “The prince and the emperor have a brotherly relationship.”xZqwurEykzgfRUUSIdYNZVhDahITtE

CpmhtpolVREQupD

“Naturally,” Li Yingtang smiled. “Outsiders always suspect our relationship and doubt the fraternal affection between the royal family. But I can distinguish right from wrong, and my heart is as clear as a mirror.”IaQIBDCjyVVqEdIEoFKatZgCzCHQay

YJGagmdkBaVcpcG

He pointed to the shallow scar at the corner of his eye. “Have you seen this scar?”RasSTAkJwWWHpWvVPiVzIXrrDDOgZa

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Ning Rushen had noticed it as soon as he saw him.LTZZbvLrNebkNHqQdUWciNdAxMIMDN

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The scar was not conspicuous, but it was also not easy to ignore. It marred Prince Xuan’s otherwise handsome and elegant face, like a flaw on a precious jade.LruaXXXSlAOUJftlyFdYhSBqSmkFDN

LgryZkcCjMIeONZ

He asked, “This is…?”GnXtWhXxiZFwAsPlPvzvinrWQgwuQp

niOdwiiraYXCQsQ

Li Yingtang said, “You should know, the emperor’s birth mother is Lady Xian. My life was given by my mother, saved by Lady Xian, and protected by the emperor.”AIbJpFrNhhViWurUgSHiHrILmwsAHn

qirGlkYbwLApXRA

Ning Rushen listened quietly, pondering the deeper meaning.BUzcIbKOzDNZkmPScIWapumQfpRxhG

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“If it weren’t for Lady Xian, I wouldn’t have this scar, but would have lost my life instead.”vHWeNsIOogExVkJVFKgjpCYawWGowJ

MvWKcjMPqdNPyfp

Li Yingtang gazed into the distance, seemingly lost in memories:KMkIZrXviztAIYykbSWinLxGMCihZD

kOEjkEkDOnPPxLN

“In the early years, the Crown Prince was dominant and repeatedly harmed his siblings. One year, there was a heavy snowfall in the palace. I was still young, and my mother was punished and confined to the palace. The attendants around me were all sent away by the Crown Prince. He locked me in an old, abandoned palace courtyard, and I was almost frozen unconscious…”JvGqkMeRXoxNIqNOBnblTbYwpXbZui

mBJPFGfTUZrxpzt

“The emperor and Lady Xian searched the entire palace, and it was Lady Xian who carried me out of the snow…”RZTeJytCpKCdDKEIOkByeQAPVPPBQr

QBNQwRYWTSSfDXx

A gentle breeze rustled the grass underfoot, creating a soft, rustling sound.zUznMvFQaFlBzoumLGgUeIiFtBZiQc

DWBcCcJbBegiKyz

In the vast wilderness, only the tranquil and distant voice of Prince Xuan could be heard.fPkxnMBolAyvnknbJkoBjuEozLGETo

ljIekZzcqcBkefn

Listening to him talk about his rescue until his recovery, the story seemed to drift further and further away… Ning Rushen finally couldn’t help but interrupt, “Your Highness.”xnBEyoWdmvNGziUmtpCCiFNJgKQdzq

AZXQaimyAHrcudk

Li Yingtang paused, “What’s wrong?”swRekvdzLlGYtvnUwoaJRKkOsMgoxF

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Ning Rushen refocused on the main point of the story, “So, how did you get this scar?”aOQzWQVpCtHkNkKNwCfwtrrYUVddYD

MGPqQkkKUPxjdGl

“Oh… this!” Li Yingtang seemed to remember, “It was when Empress Consort Xian found me, she was so excited that her fingernail scratched me.”YpjHwBXDPhYCTgYYRMnRBNWbRuRWbU

FkyHFfmweoneVKe

Ning Rushen looked at Prince Xuan with difficulty:hKFmHtINKEHBJLGWgSzixYboUMcorg

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Your heart is not a clear mirror, but a funhouse mirror, all the important points are distorted.aaGuwuoMHqjcjdrHTKhOanudAAuVbM

TMRBMAEPnBOTFoS

The two stood silently for a few seconds.WUPxkOQNFmiEAtbUIlYBedVXfLtOcq

ljZwuuRhJByoAap

Li Yingtang brought the conversation back, “Anyway, His Majesty is accustomed to bearing everything himself and is not good at expressing emotions. You often accompany him, so I hope you can be more observant.”etNYSnTpZIoiuNvQoaDqrlwIAZxeXq

umzBbrqQNVdfdSs

Ning Rushen nodded, “Of course.”pqFMlYlYJJiPMXQVEboOWzxBRFKrPk

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Li Yingtang sighed twice, looked at him with relief and ripples, “If you have any requests, feel free to tell me.”VtQwOSFiCdgEBPYltikLSyHSpYxzll

jvYkHvDCBqysdDX

“It is all within my duties, I…” Ning Rushen was speaking modestly and respectfully, but his thoughts suddenly shifted, and he stopped, “I just want to know, what exactly is that stack of paper?”FYcItQZsVhouAEmTYnsosppwiwoDeL

fKlCrbVkoCEmlVN

Why does everyone avoid discussing this with him?IOJxLXXyZCzhNxHjgqBarGxqbCbPAr

zenwFqQJfUBiHKc

Li Yingtang, “…”ixmUsnMBDgdxiiVNEsUKGHDGYfcwHS

lysSPJsEJiQnOKg

Just as he was about to speak, he suddenly thought of something, patted Ning Rushen’s shoulder, “Next time, find an opportunity for His Majesty to tell you in person.”LeVsCYRYzScPJNfZgJuHBgjduENOgJ

JLnyBVwyALLlWDf

Ning Rushen: ?ZpMIwpbBilrWUtmSsBxCOJLqjznQkg

LrAxWEokIVcijPq

After the conversation, the two returned to the inn.FUSvwEJilalbelVQOgFAyVUDzFQBQu

mzIPGCXkyqiWDPW

Li Wuting scrutinized them, “Finished chatting?”szkLcLFXLlqtwzeSrCorvecuASqrEC

KaQkVfoHYnkSKlN

Li Yingtang, feeling refreshed, “Yes!”COBVdBnwSCQMJSojjqWHSYKHRsbqzZ

gwPRtyrulHmSZIl

“…” Li Wuting furrowed his brows, glanced at Ning Rushen, who seemed lost in thought, then waved his hand to dismiss them, “It’s time to set off.”IBGXwlLbOTBFEHlDvkVOREiTwxtDgW

EetmPDLccnxlMWi

The auspicious time of 3:45 in the afternoon was passing.NaUeZGEAZVylzPNUjvtJTIjiNjOami

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Li Yingtang finally reluctantly boarded the carriage and left in a cloud of dust.cSzjSXqykKXupPSqpCzpcmruaZBVjh

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After sending off Prince Xuan, the others returned to the carriage.aQHLDpnsrmPAciDeewyJqgWPzPxXZb

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As soon as Ning Rushen sat down, he heard Li Wuting’s voice beside him, “What were you talking about?”bNQnObfAgvXUCYOVCBAlnaryzFFgwX

LAGTALKUtVQablS

He pulled the snowy cloak out from under Li Jingyu’s buttocks and straightened it in front of him, “Just some idle chat.”EecdlNjTDuavFDLjvMgKnRlMyxAiqV

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Li Wuting looked at him.gFRgBkXdfwPMUKeirsPiaXmxrkBLdn

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Ning Rushen remembered Li Yingtang’s intricate and strange heartfelt words, couldn’t help but speak up for him, “His Highness Prince Xuan is pure at heart. If there is any offense to His Majesty in the future, it is purely unintentional.”zOHgrCjWWSXNfguopDqRmHqNLzkdLw

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“…”.IIvIRFldPzGDcCzFSHZhlleFgpMRGn

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Li Wuting’s eyebrows furrowed as if pondering the definition of “innocence.”UpaAbFcyJipWZdZqBHWkTAktLeYWuH

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After a moment, he carefully considered, “Did he say anything to deceive you, or ask you to do some strange things?”EpdbLYaATYpWeVrYxehUdEimYvlKbC

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Ning Rushen, full of doubt, leaned closer. “What strange things?”JcxXEiKUqPTaCjBNDFXWgzQBjOaXle

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The carriage passed through the city gate, and the light dimmed. His snow-white cloak was particularly eye-catching in front.fZujDipPraksuLqSRQzgNGURhvghsE

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As the carriage swayed lightly, Ning Rushen’s leaning body also swayed, his breath causing strands of hair to flutter, creating a slight tickling sensation.ezrvOqjcQyCxRAZXqiGtkRHRpCGZjc

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Li Wuting looked down at him. “To…”nMjksnbVzjkLbrqrZpFGGxxnttzISH

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Before he could finish, the light in the carriage brightened again.ZTnXznyjYioWRRJKGVAteGvLxYtyZR

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Immediately, Li Jingyu’s little head also popped out from behind, stacking on Ning Rushen’s shoulder, eagerly looking over. “What strange things?”CZxUXxUReMKAILIFjayBPdyJQBwngS

SyVrkHHtFliFUTU

Li Wuting looked at the two pairs of eyes in front of him, paused, and then said, “Nothing, sit properly.”SFtYqYzKaJXzNnZtyAjxBuPoxqWAWo

DZyEBaYCWRycSbn

The two of them retreated, “Oh.”PijHtPFbHwuiqZXLfpqgBIWRrrrwcv

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The carriage entered the capital.QSAAvoSNWwoeTRnwUEIYZNxApDOQcr

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Passing through the city and heading back to the palace in the direction of the Ning Residence, after a while, Li Wuting asked outside the curtain, “Where are we?”PLYqyLzTPtZbttlzPSxIPRoRvPSpQa

pRerVzExROvGoGJ

“Back to Your Majesty, we’re almost at Dongsi North Street.”QlhOaBUDsrtJKvMOThAHZYVjQlearX

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“I’ll make a stop at the East City Military Office ahead.”drYPHAizLTODjedyWtlODJLIrCfOeq

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Ning Rushen leaned out to peek through the curtain. “Where is this? Should I get off first?”PoOSVrPLMZkhMWnrPAhVqtkidVhCrN

BATsLEdxroWAluO

Li Wuting said, “…sit back. It’s not far from your residence. We’ll drop you off at the next street ahead, and you can walk one street over.”YCLdinqQGJTvVNyvVAUcgzdbWbGnDq

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Listening to this, it seemed he had considered it for him.zgUNUkaBvsLobmMtNdQgiosiYLeiJQ

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Ning Rushen sat back. “Thank you, Your Majesty.”gvbGoHdjtOlIyTQgRpNFAjwcnsTPMx

QxcvNhxRAXNZJjW

Soon, they arrived at the next street corner, and the carriage stopped.vfaOuBCAvdPYMYwnDljHJClcoYdyNf

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Ning Rushen got up to bid farewell, and Li Jingyu looked around, asking, “Brother Emperor has official duties, should this brother also get off?”iaGVAoDqMyuGoYuYdqCqQKVtBgCZcu

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Li Wuting said, “You’ll come with me.”pzCILKifwKmifbkUWHVKmdrFNicGCD

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Li Jingyu nodded. Ning Rushen glanced at the two brothers, bowed, and got off the carriage.WhPEkRMHowkmKDmYEMOpnaOeckmsBe

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Outside the carriage was a long market street.SQAgPpjbtxGfZPTCYsyTeFHvfMrxKt

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There were various stalls on the side of the street, and the whole street was neither quiet nor noisy. At the end of the street, just around the corner, was Ning Mansion.PSFenzwUroKahWnwfBgVzRyhAqdHWA

BdbAbOmIlIABGCb

At this moment, Ning Rushen happened to have nothing to do, so he walked and looked around.VpxprhBdWJuVqmfEjvyiwpPPaJlenR

UADWVXeUApmRyIc

After walking forward for a while, he suddenly heard a commotion ahead—rapid horse hooves mixed with pedestrians’ cries! He turned around to see a young man in luxurious clothes galloping down the street.aNwihSESdtcrvPxCmAzoVBCDCENELY

xNuVcQFHSaHhVcB

The horse galloped fiercely, and in an instant, it was just a few steps away.LpwwyWiZxVpVSGSfVqNTUCqJgOqbKh

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Ning Rushen was startled and quickly stepped aside!SgyYrZtbHufSyZaXMHKiBdkQeiLYVC

bLtQoKESMCPVkoE

The surrounding pedestrians and vendors also panicked and dodged, causing chaos on the street for a moment:PiurtaMtrzWUeVVUbzCdHDonLkDuXT

aCXTxRKhfGyfwek

“Quick, get out of the way!” “Move aside, pushcart!”lDgUwzXBtLnARBOTaCAOKlhIQuspdm

fJncGrpvzOnZTWP

The arrogant horse passed by like the wind.QpOFIQvgmMsEQpYQKdyZEtFizOLxok

gndUkKrjKFrYRuK

Just as Ning Rushen stepped back to a stall, a pushcart unexpectedly collided with him from the side, “Be careful!”TSJgswUOdxkwRTZnDaxcQlVITmFzKK

rSMGZsGsALMMclS

The pushcart banged against the edge of the stall.OJniHumPaMKckogipHguXhNwBcJINC

KwLqeXEsrJPDqjJ

At the same time, the cart frame hit Ning Rushen’s waist heavily, “Ugh…!” He groaned in pain, supporting himself on the edge of the stall, his knuckles turning white with effort.DCGUntKSDqUMFyGzKzOEORxzlhUPgb

sFhgIXPUdeAlxZD

A head of black hair hung down, covering half of his face.dcLTLKjQjCxSsqIllSgWSgzZodwnwH

VnhfPBuuYKWyQTc

Only a slight trembling of the slender shoulders could be seen, and under the lifted snow-colored cloak, a crimson official robe was revealed.BHUXnJfodGdWjtKgrTVNvppbBaUIdj

sMsUEAohWNhRsPn

The surrounding pedestrians were instantly shocked: it was an imperial official.tFtCsUPMQStaNPEnShdTYGwgdBUrCo

IYdugZPNEBNBVkQ

The vendor pushing the cart collapsed to his knees in fear, “This humble one has collided with the lord, please spare me, lord, please spare me!”eZKQbZoaSOatgZuTdKvdPrTZzrefVg

AbjthEsMUyEbrTu

Ning Rushen was in pain, his waist throbbing. He endured it and waved his hand, “It’s not your fault. My mansion is just ahead, go and call someone for me.”XFMXJyvVEPTDpwTOVxgmSZHGEumWnC

nseCIyjRRBEzQcx

“Yes, my lord!”mWeMTBxWADDXFuYlbfhneOSTFCYlSm

HpraQsFSqbRfyWl

In the short moment when the vendor went to call for help,jYUPnilviNHqLlxPooAqUzSORunnPf

EYFrxAUtgQgFfyQ

Ning Rushen finally caught his breath. He looked around at the mess, “The East City Garrison is just two streets away. Who would be so bold?”jnPAaMnqMUlrKnztdyYGhzEEhAtYik

CStMLXSTaLbvjUo

A merchant cautiously said, “In response to the lord, that person is Young Master Yu from the Yu Family, which…which manages the East City Garrison.”rmUAmEeKnvOtDlmGfTEPjCVyzJWgwD

phdizagHAponNlF

Ning Rushen had no memory of these aristocratic families.nWQnpNgsohCgmSqOKrErCLftNeEUVy

rBndUemXJRjTeGx

Usually, he would ride a carriage to and from the court, and aside from a few colleagues, he didn’t know anyone, let alone the scions of aristocratic families.dShpGnAiddovkgggkdxXPFPmpjJjCJ

VeHUVUvuUZtgNrn

He didn’t expect to encounter such an annoying person riding a horse in front of his own home.KRsXOzvDpkQsjntKzpOSVPcpQMFKMD

LsUlYxxvlXNxCPl

In just a few words, Yan Min and Shiyi quickly arrived.ZXjbrUcQpgkjfnturweeeQSlzYizSi

UBIcdnMJmERIiFV

Yan Min was shocked when she saw him, “My lord, how did you end up in such a sorry state!”VeZLiXfsWFFnYdCIbwXpydKZHIbFze

CApPaATAhkvtRZy

“What torment, he was just knocked down.”RTkaEtAHlbDQbMsQtMeLRpkLQavIdf

iolhUnOUFkZFAOH

Yan Min shouted again, “My lord, your face is even paler than before!”OAnLScuIdwNtuzRDOAvxCOfBrNAuMe

CBvFRnfMJXwdqLF

Ning Rushen closed his eyes and breathed shallowly, “Shh.”kdsRthMtLrjQgLbyyMUIOQMobOpWJL

RivXWjcsOmuxcIk

“Your voice is too loud, it’s ringing in my ears.”LPnSsGZqdiHNWwYHDHnVmZKGqRqzZG

joEpBsWQDrPaIJY

He climbed onto Shiyi’s back, patting his shoulder, “Take me back to my room first, then get a doctor for me.”OrRZNhWLzlCnhRDHyAROTcDaLIwosY

wRNeAvOMMGoovZf

“Yes.” Shiyi carried him and flew off.LwqvXalcpPLdsGDkGlnVKYASyHPqOC

FSfFuhPAdrsfHKc

The rushing wind whistled past his ears as Ning Rushen lay on Shiyi’s back, the pain finally clearing his mind a bit:IIiMPYoxYkDezsPJnCNIlduTqqPEjA

zDxogWBZLuuHrkP

The Yu Family, isn’t that one of his favorite restaurants?jzLfrBDpiPAQHIJvuxGymSORJaWxva

gzQnLcsuSVQDdSZ

·qXTeDMbfXEuAnPZuQclcGxbeAgnzRU

oZRpFmnMaTMsBTL

Ning Rushen returned to the mansion and lay on the bed, gasping for air.LchjpIWjIRDhHcPBHxgJaMVkNlGkmm

XNravFoQUxmSRAy

The doctor arrived at the mansion shortly after.DfzcGhLPiuPulgHkLuKEBmbiluKEGk

VKosxNZcGJgLfoo

As his outer garments were removed and his undershirt lifted, it revealed a large bruise on Ning Rushen’s side, stark against his pale skin, looking terrifying.NxIWybVRhXUSuZnxvNbCqKAvdYgTTh

asxIzSCHhjNymTw

“My lord, the impact was severe, fortunately it didn’t injure your muscles or bones.”KLOwEcylyHAEnkcTgzhgCtKhqcGTmy

dQJBAPWpFmBJsGi

After examining him, the doctor also took his pulse. “My lord’s body is weak, with poor circulation of qi and blood. Besides the ointment for external application, this humble one will also prescribe some medicine for my lord’s overall health.”crEeyXObgiTRDufLIiiXkBmliwEcZF

ReowewgNoOWYEXa

“Mmm…” Ning Rushen buried his face in the pillow, thanked the doctor, and had Yan Min lead the doctor downstairs to get the medicine.iYzKfOlahngjrbMdSIFdCWiuBhBpYj

wutUtmLRtEbdCoH

Feeling exhausted all over, he lay on the bed and slept for a while.ZpauskOgMwlPvLJhtfKzvZBXLtYhCT

JXBkBOtuZMNBBVl

When he woke up groggily, the medicinal soup was ready.pLjgihhqNicHsXUIGzKxvEBaDwCoiV

IWpMsTQDxyZrMwt

Xing Lan brought the medicine over, and a sour bitterness hit him.yBbRcYVRhQvyVyOIYzdIUGyYwxULga

gfUhnlbmBcwIdjs

Ning Rushen stared at the dark bowl, took a small sip tentatively, and shuddered at the bitterness, as if his soul was leaving his body.ODJPmYHFbFEorbiFyddmNiReIvkyeI

xMkoTBFoUmpdbup

Xing Lan asked, “My lord, is it good?”apdVBBJoJNoVDfvHIZlNhwTOAvjrHy

UMVoGlZFEydBDSu

Ning Rushen closed his eyes, “I just had a hallucination, I saw an old woman holding the bowl…”SaDYjscRKrfRGVIDnqoRAXYSOqOGPL

XlpnKmTcSzchuEs

Xing Lan gasped, “That’s Meng Po!”bHmemJajSimcFvuoHmQVrssWSIHSgZ

ZmduYlNVCVsqBxX

“Set it aside for now, I can’t drink this.” Ning Rushen couldn’t handle something so bitter.BjsmuzgkxOtHblekKbjguDfmpCItWS

CGENsEAVcwVPpKW

He turned his head and saw Shiyi standing at the door.XYdbVKDRrMcmRMHjRQwwVVqViMxsaU

ZaKlaNeHQQNhTEH

Feeling that he wouldn’t be able to attend court tomorrow in this condition, Ning Rushen said to Shiyi, “Go and ask for leave for me.”drFkLLQojDsKmyUCvzOVlmxTAjFamO

JpicZiLEIIsSWTF

He wasn’t sure about the rules for requesting leave, but it didn’t matter, Shiyi would know for sure.JrnlYkHzCAWTMxIrBhRBvDBLcmqYzG

WPPIPmTPYnFJNoC

After listening, Shiyi nodded and left.tzINLfBOFTGVfVfedMEULHtFqxTaZN

yYMJvtObvumxvfA

FqqnWAfAhdXJmfGOvKCOsNqqHPglnl

zfVSNuRfBiKYKzB

In the palace, in the Hall of Nurturing Harmony.jEPjgvVkLfOkZPfIfthpHhJADOreoV

CzFFsAbkrFhuJZg

Li Wuting returned from the East City Barracks, dealt with a bunch of government affairs, and just settled down to change into comfortable casual clothes.KHhnFmdKULhKySLMpVacXLgDnYSBMr

JpKMjrQKXmCaXEK

“Has Jingyu been sent back?”lkkXCxjVJQDIRSunCJLvbDcNrvrnuY

jRqOnBjQuzEhlXV

De Quan bowed, “The young prince has safely returned to the mansion.”OVpRZEspUzEhzGgVkOIKEFkCjPTwGK

rFxWMWKmkLELBju

Li Wuting nodded, then paused. He walked to the low table and sat down, casually picking up a scroll and opening it.eYnjYabDUPNxePiNzBtjfzzoStKmHm

JjbhQYPuoSuGLPv

De Quan observed the emperor’s expression and said, “I presume Lord Ning has also safely returned to his residence.”DuxdAflwPXMPkllJISuUILPUlqHovL

mvLcBOfaOiXozwi

A faint hum sounded from nearby.MmGqvabgJFepwwTRPkoPudJxvevXhI

GrhTOzwBszlaUJq

Li Wuting didn’t speak, just turned the pages of the book.wgHyOxWVhRmTMMMYbzFWUcWbjQuKOa

YfLvlOoWOJjHyMk

The hall was quiet for a while, then suddenly a faint movement came from outside the hall. Li Wuting looked up to see a familiar yet distant figure landing in front of him—yIFExmbGoTogfcjCCzfGAaRKlpfioY

whppZCcOQUrFUaf

Shiyi returned to the long-abandoned Hall of Nurturing Harmony and bowed.nufsLRpZXrlDkmeaBPTlsRdDSaJTTs

rIozCYygcnlIzJY

Li Wuting furrowed his brow, “Why are you back?”weTxzniSgURQNBGLWzzSuPljLZMGyi

uvWcIxhWoCXNjHo

Shiyi said, “Your… Majesty, Lord Ning asked this humble one to help him request leave, so he won’t be able to attend early court tomorrow.”BGjJbaBZugImanyYsjpzmtOVNAzWcV

EpCVuDDbCszRIsR

“What’s going on?”jhKHmvZkRaBFMtiPUKRGZmDnbsstzC

mlgLHEQQIQHJqxo

“Yujia’s son rode a horse in the street, and Mister Ning got injured.”MdxIRsPNTggYpOperOlpwkLOKklcAQ

CVOPGfjohmspTOj

As the words fell, silence engulfed the room around the low table.DiaKneNFMFKGkKvkSpPlYRQnkqHARe

RNEcDJmsWPFzhSu

De Quan’s heart sank: He had just prayed for Mister Ning’s safe return home, and now he was injured!ZMKDWwSKhyXzULBRxVgwjcdxJsGUFN

eRHnEBZpreHMZOx

Moreover, he was injured after parting ways with His Majesty.GyXgsboFpWoFcliYBxScottEzfXWoz

AAdjjdjvczTeUzO

Speaking of His Majesty…zgAkzkeVDsvoqVbZLtvKscbbYGIcFo

TdTjpujYEdxyJre

He glanced sneakily at Li Wuting’s expression, but saw his face as calm as water, with no hint of emotion. However, with his many years of experience, he feared that his mood was not good.AdggCTzPkETufnXwBlLEFSkThpDFAS

eEhfZbqqvcEmkoA

After a few moments of silence, Li Wuting spoke, “How is the situation? Has the doctor seen him?”leqzAnzQcuKVEsmTNZekxSAnyRIedE

ijaWhzuENNvzKbr

Pick-up replied, “The injury is very serious, but not life-threatening. The doctor prescribed medicine, but Mister Ning finds it too bitter to drink.”YwNSlfxjNEcXHVwzlnrVjEWvzdwTHB

XTNfjskfYZIYNAv

“…”xCsjZcrOipHprLTMsTWOptqQLMEzwE

kIhwzRBBJxUyBlb

Li Wuting was speechless at this and felt a bit annoyed. “He refuses to take the medicine because he wants—”KNGpxoIHjRUUVpmRoVRqzCKplkkvfj

jzuuiQmqpkpXJkL

“…He wants me to feed you personally, Ning Lang.”ZBLJIpXOHTsOZNhchZLqnDbfNzCpYX

yjGGKaGDviuqzIW

The dialogue seamlessly appeared, fitting naturally into the scene.BzzMxKaTNzHlZsVQMXwHCSFNMnljCT

WDVEmqpgdSEPbcq

Li Wuting pinched the bridge of his nose: …ZsZtaVzlJRNjvdzRGcOjdZGiRSaJbF

NncRtIzwFiIUZRp

He remained silent for a moment, then finally stood up. “In any case, it was I who asked him to get off the carriage. Let’s go, let’s go see him.”kvsGldmKahEfgCuExOHATGaKKggEPL

NAPBxmMsYWnmziA

De Quan smiled awkwardly, “How could it be blamed on Your Majesty? It’s all because that Yujia’s son is too arrogant, it’s outrageous! But when Your Majesty visits Mister Ning, I’m sure Mister Ning will be delighted and happily drink the medicine!”CyAlEtYeRaRLedVsoYXMrSinRFGoFw

PxJTRewchPndwjy

Li Wuting was getting a headache from his repeated mention of “drinking medicine.”jDMYMdXTbuwjEWZRIohfOHKXDBWhua

orNredizoRebCgt

“Alright, let’s leave the palace.”HCVHbyWRcByXnAFpQwWTqEHJbCdbPB

LGwxtpsJVDHWxfV

·nfRzwxuvfIlmFPxtwLwfCcXoQaWnNS

JXgCpZilLftluBy

In the main house of the Ning residence.TYzKRyyVPrPkGLUAqobMRqsisbdCSr

bwgisthXBkgacYF

Ning Rushen had just taken medicine and was wearing only a small shirt, with a thin blanket draped over him.IkHWvRrWtxobDiLshjzuZSdSiputjs

rhFlWMtbJLQHHht

He was lying down when suddenly a shout came from outside the door, “Ning Chen!”SMCKiHDSmLipIRjTdTWBEIvodhwfpY

XcGEeSnilKqzOap

Immediately after, Geng Yan rushed in like a gust of wind, “What’s going on? I heard from your staff that you’re injured? I’ve called a few friends, they even said they’d come to take you out to play!”QfTWjDeTgteZuFURCXPwWHbZknidpP

tiKnPBkUyrgISyF

Ning Rushen covered his ears, “Keep it down… What are you guys playing?”uePYPQFctGqpAWwDBArvRWDcTFvGCy

lGRnHLkOeuamoFg

Geng Yan, “We’re going to have fun together.”tdsvMaaEyryypoKypgZXqUjcxhWuBX

wKVSwVbyAvRGMuE

“…” Ning Rushen released his ears, “What?”qGFodhJVehICUweHGUtTRYigFsHDRH

ISmIZDTtTvxaWkn

Did he not hear clearly?NTTjiBUPNBajJiYJpARhXkorgVjZnF

lUnUKdFoLxjxuiA

Is the little dog saying something dangerous?QhlAqMgLMZpDYpKqKByDrLXUQJsnxO

rhGzdcTxXBJwTcU

Geng Yan, “Have fun! We’re going boating, remember? You taught us, right?”rQpDwTbmbGsltVpOePMNSRKtkTgAgx

XJXlniGHJuxVsUp

Ning Rushen pursed his lips, looking speechless.gWPGYeQAwrjBLJbzpiHarLnVGFwKHx

kGjBzxSjYWBXWTd

Geng Yan didn’t notice his slightly stunned expression and continued, “Now that you’re injured, you can’t go boating anymore. By the way, where are you injured? How did it happen?”yGdCKGuPDFPUAPRXTdjtIWsaVzvNTE

xUQaqXJISIAFdad

Ning Rushen smoothly changed the topic, “On my waist, I was hit.”qhJklHxeorQgUMQSPiOGlZWyrmZdjD

ZeXEqImiNEAkUme

“Gasp… Can I see?”lQouPgVAwsuzSsKXqCEvezSrvUGMKr

tvyzHUIEgKtALeH

Geng Yan leaned forward, lifting the edge of his thin blanket.NKMewUdPnHjghNPcfoityrhlpOgVcM

urBcTYdmGqBqUjJ

A gust of cool wind rushed in, causing Ning Rushen to shiver. “Are you still…” He was about to instruct someone to let go when suddenly, he heard a commotion outside, followed by the dimming of the light from outside.GSXyRFbgXHGsBVtWpcnVHOAkaQtjbn

jxPkfUzwSeeKWfJ

Ahead, there were two hurried and faint sounds: “Heng heng!”lcGsGHcMclBUbCLHasJOGQQFMEanzZ

rvAThhhjlPSPGwa

Ning Rushen’s heart skipped a beat. He abruptly raised his head—PpdehljzAFUisyqREiGJWvmONEecDQ

NgUoXSSeHIoLSJG

Only to see Li Wuting standing at the door, looking towards him with his hands behind his back. Beside him were De Quan, who was making frantic gestures, and Yan Shu, who was silent as a cicada.HSdTZZqDkgPMpXQuQCTEHTVqefUioF

wjDBghHEGDyWUjN

Their gazes met across half the room.RtEuxfMrWCmyvcKWXjvMwpQCilCxmH

rXLxWHkHirsrZxW

“…”eHwGwlnueAqlPapvabreGFWLMHEEwH

EfhNZfMIhtHEDdq

Geng Yan, by the bed, faced that gaze, his hand trembling inexplicably as he gently covered the thin blanket over himself again.uhFddVmUIkiVIREyksmLNqZNpjZewB

qThVnRAyyBUMHyg
Table of Contents
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