Chapter 8, Holding the Milky Way in the Late Night

This time

At that moment, two young men dressed as servants immediately led the horses forward. Zhu Zhanji paused slightly and whispered, "Take care!" He then mounted his horse, raised his whip, and with a loud neigh from the steed beneath him, he charged out like lightning, disappearing in an instant.

Two maids closely followed behind, accompanied by a small group of guards escorting them

Facing her from just a short distance away was none other than her husband, Zhu Zhanji, the Crown Prince of the Ming Dynasty

She truly dares not think further

But what is it? If slightly biased, it will be further questioned

Indeed, it is the innocent words of a child. If only Wei felt a slight ache in her nose, a stream of tears could not help but flow down her cheeks. A small chubby hand reached up to her face, gently wiping away her tears, and then a little head leaned in to give her a "smack" of a kiss on the cheek. "Mother, do not cry. Father must be in a fluster and did not think of this good idea. When Father returns tomorrow, Xin'er will tell him that both Xin'er and Mother are concerned for him, and that we would rather give up the rooms in the palace for the common people to live in than let Father suffer."

This statement struck at the heart of the matter, and everyone's gaze immediately turned towards Ruowei.

Sun Ruowei's gaze sharpened, and she said solemnly: "His Royal Highness the Crown Prince has returned to the capital solely for recuperation. After his recovery, he will still be commanded to remain in Nanjing, which is why I have been ordered to stay here with the princess. Moreover, the city is currently in ruins, and there is a resurgence of disease; I cannot bear to leave at this moment."

The servant understands the gravity of the situation. Ziyan replied and then followed Siyin out of the hall

If Wei had ever said that these two men were the most important parts of her life, that losing either of them would leave her forever incomplete, she would never trade one for the safety of the other. However, this time, she broke her promise

He nodded slightly and said, "There is no need to worry"

I have said, there is no need to worry. He unexpectedly reached out and pulled her into his embrace

Is this sudden passing a matter of fate or a man-made disaster

If Wei shook his head, "Let me think, let me think carefully. If that day truly comes, even if it means the destruction of both jade and stone, I will not seek to survive at the expense of others."

"My dear consort, you should return early!" He tossed out a jest before entering the cabin.

If Wei was still in a daze, he had already shaken his robe sleeve and turned to board the ship

Your Highness, but..." Xiang Ting noticed the flickering expression on Ruo Wei's face and hesitated to speak.

The servant was pondering that since this secret report has managed to reach us, it is likely that the Le'an Han royal residence has also received the news. If they truly have intentions to usurp the state, even if they are deceived by our ploy of substitution, failing to intercept His Highness the Crown Prince, would they then consider infiltrating Nanjing... . . . Xiang Ting forcefully swallowed the rest of her words.

If Wei sighed softly and looked at Ziyan as if seeking help, Ziyan immediately smiled, "Master, do not worry, I will go and take a look right away"

-

Do you think this is useful? A charming smile graced his lips, yet his eyes remained as cold as a frigid pool. He was a handsome and exceptionally graceful adult man, but he possessed more sharpness and brilliance than Zhu Zhanji. He was none other than Xu Bin, the talented scholar from Jiangnan and a compiler at the Hanlin Academy, whom Ruo Wei regarded as a confidant.

The night is as dark as ink, with starlight accompanying the moon

Gentle and warm like jade, yet exuding a masculine boldness and grandeur, there is a noble demeanor that gazes down upon the world and strategizes with poise. On a quiet moonlit night, it is so enchanting and captivating.

Perhaps it is of no use, but only in this way can one find peace of mind. She also smiled, her smile exuding an extreme calmness tinged with helplessness

If Wei suddenly straightened up, staring at her with wide eyes, "Are you saying that he might send someone to infiltrate Nanjing to capture me and Xin'er, in order to force Zhan Ji to commit a crime?"

Alright, there can be no further delay! Sun Ruowei slightly parted her crimson lips, her willow-like brows furrowing slightly. This past six months had been filled with too many events for her. First, she accompanied Zhu Zhanji to Nanjing for disaster relief and encountered danger; Zhu Zhanji was nearly on the brink of life and death. Just as his health was beginning to recover, like a sudden thunderclap, she received urgent news from the capital. After a lifetime of caution, the Hongxi Emperor Zhu Gaochi, who had endured over twenty years in the position of crown prince, had ascended the throne for less than ten months before succumbing to a grave illness.

If a slight smile breaks through, closely pressed against the daughter's small face, for a moment, one does not know what to say.

Xiangting did not respond, yet the worry in her gaze was unmistakably clear

As the official ship gradually sailed away, the dock suddenly became lively

How can this be? If Wei were to open her eyes, how could my sister, who has always been wise, not understand the intricacies involved here? His Royal Highness the Crown Prince is, on this journey, akin to entering a den of tigers. Although I do not fear death, if I were to accompany Lord Xu and something were to go awry, we would only bring trouble upon him

The palace maid Si Yin entered from outside, her expression somewhat anxious. "My lord, Princess Changde has awakened and is insisting on seeing His Highness the Crown Prince."

A trace of reluctance flashed across his face as he reached out to embrace her and the girl she was holding in his arms. He lowered his head and whispered in her ear, "If anything were to go awry on this journey north for the funeral, you should hide in the mountains with Xu Bin and must not expose yourself to unnecessary conflicts."

If Wei nodded slightly, she turned to him and gave another round of admonitions, "You must be extremely careful. Although you are impersonating His Highness the Crown Prince at the request of Lord Xu, you must remain vigilant at all times along the way to ensure Lord Xu's safety."

If one is half-heartedly pushing away, there is nothing that can be done

Upon hearing such remarks from Ruowei, everyone immediately expressed their admiration and began to quietly recount the various acts of benevolence performed by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince

Beside the dock stood an official ship, with servants carrying luggage onto it. A man in a brocade robe stood with his hands clasped behind his back, his gaze fixed steadily on Ruowei's face

The city guard of Nanjing, Li Long, then clasped his hands and said, "Your Highness, the Crown Prince, your benevolence and compassion command our utmost respect. However, since you are unwell, it is only fitting that the Empress and the Princess accompany you back to the capital. Why is it that they did not come along this time?"

It was merely because of her furrowed brows that all her thoughts were perceived by him. Thus, a plan was born, and she once again found herself in a dilemma, suffering in silence. Thinking of his smile, could this be what he desired? Ruo Wei shook her head slightly, letting out a soft sigh within her heart. Xu Bin, in her presence, seemed capable of anything, yet at times he would reveal a rare childlike innocence. Must it be so, to place the two of them on the same precarious scale, causing her to be anxious and restless, unable to eat or sleep?

Your Highness? A glimmer of tears seemed to flash in her eyes. If Zhu Zhanji had spoken such words at any other time, it would have surely provoked her anger. Yet at this moment, all she felt was a mix of sentiment and shock. What does this mean? Entrusting the future in a time of crisis? Her heart ached, but she forced the most beautiful smile to bloom on her lips, her bright eyes shimmering as her tone carried a hint of playful sarcasm. "There is no such thing as 'what if.' If Wei is here, I sincerely wish Your Highness great success."

If Wei hesitated for a moment, a clever little eunuch reported from behind, "Your Highness, everything is ready. Those local officials will likely hurry over to send you off once they receive the news, so we must set sail immediately"

At dawn, Ruo Wei, dressed in the attire of a side consort to the crown prince, arrived at the water and land dock in a grand carriage drawn by four horses. Upon disembarking, she walked hand in hand with a handsome man clad in a brocade robe and adorned with a jade belt.

If Wei Qianqian smiled lightly, she replied with a serious expression: "Esteemed officials, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince was injured during the rescue efforts in the earthquake a few days ago, and thus he must return to the capital early for treatment. Before departing, His Royal Highness instructed that, at this time, Nanjing is in dire need of reconstruction, with numerous pressing matters and countless citizens awaiting resettlement. His Royal Highness feels deeply guilty for leaving at such a time, so how could he trouble you esteemed officials to see him off? Therefore, I have been specially entrusted to convey his regards and express gratitude for your kind intentions." His Royal Highness feels deeply guilty for leaving at such a time, so how could he trouble you esteemed officials to see him off? Therefore, I have been specially entrusted to convey his regards and express gratitude for your kind intentions.

On the Xiangting, I present you with fragrant tea, "Your Highness, please have a sip of water. Since last night, you have not had a drop to drink all day. I will have the kitchen prepare some delicious meals shortly; you must eat a little.

If one is deeply troubled in heart, yet must feign ease on the surface, "You, take care on your journey!"

You? She was taken aback, for this was in full view of the public; how could he commit such an act of impropriety?

The young princess propped her chubby, lotus-like little hand under her chin, rolled her eyes, and pouted as she murmured, "There are so many houses in the palace that could accommodate my little brothers and sisters. Why does Father have to help them build new houses? Father's illness hasn't fully recovered yet! What if he gets worn out again?"

Yet, within his eyes lingered a trace of melancholy and tenderness, evoking a sense of bittersweetness in those who beheld them

Upon returning to the Eastern Palace's Jingyaxuan, the personal maids Xiangting and Ziyan immediately came forward to assist with washing her hands and face. After changing into a set of casual attire, Ruowei leaned against the low couch, resting her chin on her hand, lost in silent contemplation.

Please take care, Your Highness! After the other two men bowed to her, they immediately mounted their horses and rode away swiftly.

A dozen or so palanquins were parked by the roadside, and those who emerged from them were local officials of Nanjing. At the forefront was Li Long, the city guard of Nanjing, who immediately took a few quick steps and deeply bowed to Ruowei, expressing his fear, "Your Highness, how could His Royal Highness the Crown Prince leave so suddenly? We received the news and rushed here to bid farewell, but unexpectedly, we were still a step too late"

If Wei nodded slightly, "Go quickly, that girl Xin'er listens to you the most besides His Highness the Crown Prince. Go over and coax her well, but be sure not to let anything slip. There are many people in this palace, so you must be especially careful."

Zhu Zhanji received a secret letter from Empress Zhang Yan, and without a moment's pause, he quietly set off. However, will the journey be peaceful?

Everyone nodded frequently, and praises were incessantly heard. If I were to exchange a few pleasantries with them, I would then take the carriage back to the palace

They? Xiang Ting's heart trembled

At this moment, he is not adorned in brocade robes or wearing golden helmets and silver armor. Instead, he is dressed in a light blue, somewhat new long robe, with his hair casually tied back with a scarf of the same color, presenting an appearance that is as ordinary as that of any commoner. However, this does not in the slightest diminish his elegant demeanor and striking charisma.

Outside the Jinchuan Gate of Nanjing, a beautiful woman adorned in palace attire stands quietly, cradling a young girl. The beauty is like a flower, akin to a flawless piece of jade, with a smile on her face that is as intoxicating as honey. Her eyes resemble a spring pool, filled with tender emotions, and without uttering a single word, she captivates those around her, leaving them entranced and reluctant to depart.

Mother! The little one in her arms woke up at some unknown time, and she immediately began to fuss restlessly, "Mother, where is Father? Xin'er wants Father to hold her!"

If Wei held her on his lap, looking at her lovely little face and those bright eyes like black jewels, he smiled gently and coaxed her softly: "Xiner, be good. Your father has gone to help the disaster victims. A few days ago, there was an earthquake in the city, and many houses collapsed, leaving many little brothers and sisters homeless. Your father is going to help them build houses, and this is the most important thing right now, so Xiner must be obedient."

The young eunuch bowed and said, "It is indeed commendable that the Empress has thought of this so thoroughly. I, Xiao Shanzi, will certainly do my utmost."

The imperial consort Sun Ruowei leaned against the carriage, suddenly feeling a sense of restlessness in her heart. She furrowed her brows slightly, pondering quietly; since entering the palace at the age of eight, every separation she had experienced with Zhu Zhanji had been so heart-wrenching.

This is the Crown Prince's consort, Sun Ruowei

"Make two rounds in the city, then enter the palace through the West Corner Gate," she instructed in a low voice

It is ! ''

The gentle breeze lightly lifted the hem of her skirt, and the smile on her face gradually faded, the tenderness in her gaze vanished without a trace, and even a hint of resentment quietly flashed by. She called out softly, and a carriage slowly approached the city gate; the young eunuch driving the carriage deftly lowered the footstool and assisted her into the carriage

As Wei took the teacup, she drank it all in one go, leaving the cup completely empty, and then leaned her head against Xiangting's embrace, closing her eyes

Since I have to pretend to be the crown prince and take the water route to mislead others, I must act the part, right? Is it really impossible for a husband and wife to embrace even for a moment before parting? He whispered in her ear, as if he were a deeply affectionate husband bidding farewell to his beloved wife, displaying a sense of reluctance to part.

He actually smiled while staring at her expression

The four eyes meet, as if countless past events are vividly recalled... The youthful romance of cohabiting in the prince's palace, the tumult of arranged marriage after the beauty has grown up, the undercurrents in the prince's residence within the imperial city of Beijing... With her, there are too many memories and secrets.

"Your smile can be quite annoying at times." She blinked, took a deep breath, and turned her head to the side

At this moment, he is able to understand the helplessness and good intentions behind King You of Zhou's "beacon fires to entertain the lords in exchange for a smile from a beauty"

It turns out that in the Empress's heart, that Lord Xu Bin is no different from His Royal Highness the Crown Prince

How can one not worry? The furrowed brow is filled with sorrowful thoughts, as if speaking to oneself. Only Yan Qing and Li Cheng accompany me; both of them possess exceptional martial skills within the Jinyiwei. However, I truly fear that something might go awry on this journey home

At this moment, apart from the word "caution," I find myself at a loss for words as we part ways

Rest assured, I have instructed Zhao Hui to increase personnel at the perilous points along the route. Even if the Han King truly dares to act recklessly, he absolutely cannot endanger His Highness the Crown Prince. He lightly patted her back twice, then reached out to touch her earring, his demeanor affectionate yet somewhat frivolous

Does this conceal a momentous change behind it

Xiang Ting reached out to help her smooth her slightly disheveled hair and softly said: "Your Highness, if you are so worried, it would be better to return to the capital on Lord Xu's official ship as you just did."

In Zhu Zhanji's eyes, brilliance shone brightly; at that moment, his fervent ambitions and longing to return home were unexpectedly ensnared by the gentle smile at the corner of her lips.

Indeed, such a transparent ruse may or may not prove effective. If it does, then Xu Bin's peril would ensure Zhu Zhanji's safety. That is not what she wishes to see. Conversely, she cannot find peace of mind either. But why must it be done this way

"Alright, you may go," said Ruo Wei. Upon hearing this, the guards, led by the eunuch Xiao Shanzi, all boarded the ship

Finally, he nodded and patted her shoulder twice