Chapter Nine, Accompanying Reading

Zhu Zhanji sat at the lower end, looking into the eyes of his mother, seemingly not understanding the meaning of her words

... ...

If Wei quietly followed behind Princess Xianning, watching as the imperial grandchildren entered one by one, the two of them then quietly leaned against the window to observe inside

Once, deep in his heart, he silently yearned for his consort, his love, truly wishing to experience the purest and most genuine affection in the world

Hmm? Ruowei then realized that her words were somewhat inappropriate. She stuck out her tongue and, feeling a bit apprehensive, quietly asked, "Your Highness, did I overstep my bounds?"

Han Wang was indeed somewhat surprised that such words would come from the mouth of a twelve-year-old boy; no wonder the Emperor valued him so highly

The vermilion is not deeply even

I never expected that the girls outside of the palace also have to learn so many skills. Regardless of love or indifference, they must diligently study. Princess Xianning couldn't help but sigh repeatedly: "I thought it was only those born into royal families who faced such helplessness, but I didn't expect you to be the same!"

The servant pays her respects to Princess Xian Ning! Xiang Ting gave Ruo Wei a glance and immediately knelt down.

"Mother, is she the one that grandfather the Emperor has chosen?" he asked

His gaze finally turned to the second row on the left, towards Zhan Yong, "Please read your article aloud to everyone!"

At this moment, he was sitting in the octagonal pavilion by the lake, holding a book, seemingly engrossed in study

At this moment, a grandly dressed royal grandson, who appeared even smaller than Zhan Yong, stepped forward. He was the third royal grandson, Zhan Kai. Standing opposite Zhan Ji, he spoke with righteous indignation: "We can establish more educational institutions to enlighten the masses and transform the petty into gentlemen"

Princess Xianning smiled: "Of course we must study, our father and mother are very strict in supervising us, otherwise what do you think would happen?"

Brother! What are you thinking about? Zhu Zhanrong saw Zhanji silent for a long time and couldn't help but reach out to nudge him

This statement seems to have some merit, yet it also appears to have a narrow understanding of its literal meaning, as if one were to slightly shake their head and silently let out a sigh

From a young age, he was more mature than the average child. He is the eldest son of the Crown Prince, the current Emperor's grandson. However, he was raised by his grandmother, the late Empress Xu.

After the age of ten, emphasis was placed on the study of rhetoric

It is not only Xiangting, but also those few palace maids who have retreated downstairs to serve.

"No problem, in this building, regardless of those rules, just speak your mind, I find it quite interesting to listen to you." The princess then took a plate of fruit from the table and handed it to Ruowei

Isn't the princess living here?" asked Ruowei, somewhat dazed.

So, is the harmony between him and her born from pure admiration or something else

If Ruo Wei blinked her eyes and met the princess's gaze: "What is the princess saying? Ruo Wei cannot understand. Ruo Wei only knows that coming to the palace is to accompany the princess, whether as a companion for reading or as a servant. Ruo Wei only knows that in the future, she will follow the princess everywhere, be at the princess's beck and call, and rely on the princess's protection, knowing nothing else at all"

He was astonished

Miss!" Xiang Ting could not help but speak out to stop her, but the princess, finding it interesting, waved her hand instead: "You all go down and serve.

Understood? The crown princess's expression darkened: "What do you understand?"

Xiao Shanzi stuck out her tongue and immediately withdrew

Standing outside the window, Ruowei couldn't help but be taken aback. This sentence was clearly not spoken by Yao Guangxiao, nor was it uttered by the defiant Zhan Yong, but rather by a middle-aged man who had just entered through the door. With handsome features and an innate aura of dominance, his deep-set eyes revealed his wisdom and ambition. In his every gesture, there was a display of vigor, yet he also seemed somewhat solitary and aloof.

Ah? Ruowei smiled wryly and exclaimed in despair

On both sides of the main hall and to the south, the Fengrusong Study, Jingyizhai, Sizhitang, and other small halls are arranged in a lively and interwoven manner, connected by short walls and corridors, forming a courtyard that is both enclosed and open. Under the cover of towering ancient pines, the sound of the pines rustles, creating a tranquil and serene atmosphere, making it truly an ideal place for reciting poetry and literature

The indoor hall is spacious and beautiful, adorned with exquisite decorations. Four carved wooden doors separate the study from the living room, while the square and straight desk showcases a dignified and graceful demeanor. The hollowed wooden screen is also elegant and refined, partially concealed by several bamboo stalks, exuding an ethereal elegance. The octagonal glass lanterns surrounding the space enhance the originally tranquil atmosphere, adding a sense of exquisite lightness and splendor.

Reading, writing, and painting. Ruo Wei raised her eyes slightly to glance at the several palace maids standing in the room, looking around, while continuing to speak: "Being forced by my mother to play the pipa, being watched by Zi Yan while doing needlework, and sometimes, I would sneak out to play with Ji Zong."

If Wei flashed a pair of bright eyes, she first shook her head and then revealed two adorable dimples: "The discourse on ghosts and deities has varied throughout history. I believe that if one's heart is tranquil, there is nothing to fear. 'When the moon shines, the clouds disperse, and the heart is free from external influences.' I am just a child, spending my days eating, sleeping, reading, and playing. I harbor no ill intentions, and naturally, no one will provoke me."

After the imperial grandsons entered, they first paid their respects to the master. Yao Guangxiao, unwilling to accept the greeting, slightly stood to the side in front of the table. Consequently, the imperial grandsons bowed towards their seats, honoring him with the respect due to a master.

As soon as the topic was announced, the second prince Zhu Zhanrong and the third prince Zhan Kai immediately began to write vigorously, while the fourth prince Zhu Zhanjun lowered his head in deep thought. If one were to slightly raise their eyes to look inside, they would see Zhu Zhanji pondering for a moment before lowering his head to take up the brush, which brought a slight sense of relief. Since the day he entered the palace, he had unknowingly intertwined his every action with that of the other.

The unspoken heaviness in my heart, having grown up in the depths of the palace, the emperor's favor, the concubines' invitations for affection, what is emotion? What is love? He does not know, what then is the meaning of "Qingqing zi jin, youyou wo xin" from the Book of Songs?

He was confused, only knowing her, that little Sun Ruowei, as if in an instant, a pair of small hands firmly grasped him, touching the tenderness deep within his heart. A single "Zhan Gege" and an innocent smile made him feel that the days in the palace were no longer so cold and helpless.

The situation in the palace made him and her appear not like a mother and son, but rather like two comrades fighting side by side

Yet Ruowei continued to gaze blankly at Princess Xianning, suddenly letting out a sigh, shaking her head, and imitating Xiangting's manner: "Ruowei pays her respects to Princess Xianning"

Seeing him silent and unresponsive, this maturity that was incongruous with his age evoked a feeling that was hard to define, whether it was heartache or reluctance. She shook her head and hurriedly explained: "I am merely accompanying Princess Xian Ning in the palace for her studies; nothing is set in stone. My mother told you that it is because the Emperor ordered her to reside in the Crown Prince's palace, under my mother's care. In the future, you will inevitably meet, so I am just giving you a heads-up; it does not mean that I am assigning you anything right now or establishing any titles. Everything still depends on whether you have the fate to be together!"

Go meet Ruo Wei! He smiled, his voice filled with joy

You are the crown prince, and the emperor is concerned about you in every aspect. Matters such as your enrollment, lectures, and finding a mentor have all been arranged well in advance. Naturally, we must also pay attention to some candidates for you, so that when you leave the palace to establish your own residence, you will have someone considerate by your side. The crown princess is very careful with her words, fearing that if she speaks too deeply, he might overthink it. She is also worried that if she speaks too lightly, he may not understand the underlying reasons, and she cannot help but secretly blame her mother for being overly concerned, bringing a girl to him early on, yet unable to give her a proper title, neither a servant nor a concubine, which is indeed quite awkward.

Do you like it here? The Princess of Xianning was filled with interest towards this girl who was much younger than herself. How could her perfectly fine father suddenly arrange for her to have a companion for study, and of all people, it was such a young girl.

What kind of woman does Cao Zhi's renowned work depict for the world?

The methods and approaches to reading are also quite meticulous. Initially, an official would recite a sentence, and the imperial grandchildren would follow by reading it aloud, either five times or ten times, with an emphasis on reading rather than reciting.

However, unexpectedly, my dreams, before I even had the chance to pursue them, have already been firmly grasped by an invisible hand, arranged for me. What joy remains on the path ahead?

Hehe! Princess Xianning smiled gently: "Considering your young age, you indeed possess a bit of courage. Do tell me, what do you usually do at home?"

He had not thought much of it! It was only then that Zhu Zhanji came to his senses. Before that day, he had felt some resistance in his heart towards the girl mentioned by his mother. When his mother said, "She is from Zou Ping, and her father is an official in Yongcheng," he immediately understood. Sharing the same household registration with his mother and having a maternal grandfather who was an official in the same city, the intricate relationships were self-evident.

Unexpectedly, it was this almost inaudible sigh that revealed her true nature.

If the dim light is secretly smiling, it turns out that this is the true purpose for which Zhu Di appointed him as the Grand Tutor to oversee the imperial grandsons

The main building of the Western Six Palaces is oriented north to south, passing through the grand halls. Upon reaching the southwest corner, there are three small courtyards, interconnected with multi-storied corridors, collectively referred to as "Chengqu Hall." In front, there is a spacious and bright platform, while behind lies a small courtyard, elegant and refined. Beyond the mountain stones and trees, a study building has been constructed; to the south, there is also a courtyard of irregular shape, featuring a rockery in the southwest corner, along with flowers and trees, interspersed with lake stones, creating a secluded and interesting ambiance. In front, there is a spacious and bright platform, while behind lies a small courtyard, elegant and refined. Beyond the mountain stones and trees, a study building has been constructed; to the south, there is also a courtyard of irregular shape, featuring a rockery in the southwest corner, along with flowers and trees, interspersed with lake stones, creating a secluded and interesting ambiance.

As Ruo Wei was lost in thought, the Princess of Xian Ning suddenly tugged at her sleeve and gestured towards her. Thus, she followed the princess closely, and the two of them stealthily made their way out of the Wenhua Hall. Along the way, Ruo Wei was still contemplating the conversation with the Crown Prince Zhu Zhanji, feeling that his words were very reasonable and that he was far more outstanding than the other princes.

If I smile in gratitude, I will not decline, and while eating, I say: "My mother hopes to cultivate me into a well-rounded talented woman, so she pressures me every day without the slightest relaxation. Zi Yan is the supervisor sent by my mother, watching me every day as I embroider and knit. Ji Zong is my elder brother, and whenever I have a little free time, I will ask him to take me out to play."

Princess Xianning raised her hand and walked towards the City Qu Hall, saying: "Isn't it to serve as a companion? Go and copy the 'Nüze' a hundred or so times for this palace."

Yihexuan is located in the northeast of the Prince's Palace, standing out with its unique style amidst the resplendent imperial palace. The main hall faces south and has five bays, situated on a rise by the lake. A stone path, shaded by pine trees and adorned with rockeries, leads to the lakeside, where there is a delicate octagonal pavilion known as Qingbi Pavilion.

"Elder brother, I heard that your little concubine has entered the palace, quickly take me to see her!" The second prince Zhu Zhanrong exclaimed with excitement, his eyes darting around as he made playful gestures towards Zhu Zhanji.

"Where are you going?" Ruo Wei asked in a daze, looking utterly perplexed.

Thus, although Zhu Zhanji was still young, he became a stumbling block in front of the Han Wang.

"Good! Good!" Zhu Zhanrong immediately clapped his hands in approval

When I was six years old, I understood that it means a gentleman has a broad and open heart, while a petty person has a sinister and terrifying nature; a gentleman values righteousness, while a petty person only cares about benefits; a gentleman abides by rules and regulations, while a petty person only seeks practical gains; a gentleman takes on responsibilities, while a petty person shirks them. Am I right? The Han King lowered his head, looking at Zhan Ji, with a face full of pride and a somewhat deliberate theatricality.

At the East Pool Banquet, we met for the first time

The topic of today's discussion appears simple yet is profoundly significant, namely: the essential tenets of Confucianism

Later, each person presented their answers before the Crown Prince's Grand Tutor, Yao Guangxiao. He unrolled the scrolls one by one, and no emotion could be discerned from his face. After a moment, he redirected his gaze towards the various scholars in the hall

Is it a smile like a flower, or a timid expression

"Being held by my mother? Being watched by Ziyan? Who is Ziyan? And who is Jizong?" Princess Xianning found her words intriguing and could not help but ask the questions that arose in her mind

Yao Guangxiao did not give a clear answer and asked, "What do you think is the relationship between the essence of Confucianism and the Way of Kings?"

Is it the tranquility and clarity expressed in the lines "A single thought of fine dust, with the body covered in morning dew, walking to the end of the water, sitting to watch the clouds rise"

Double butterfly embroidered skirt

This is the beautiful Mi Fei

Princess Xianning observed the lively eyes of the young girl darting about, wondering what thoughts occupied her mind. Feeling quite curious, she contemplated asking her, yet found the back-and-forth exchange between upstairs and downstairs somewhat inconvenient. Thus, she waved her hand to signal them to come into the inner hall to converse.

Ah, for us common women, learning these things is merely to secure a good husband in the future. However, as a princess, a daughter of heaven, even if you learn nothing, all the men in the world will still flock to you. " Ruo Wei propped her small face on her hand, lost in thought, and inadvertently expressed all her thoughts aloud.

Zhan Yong thought for a moment before responding: "The highest ideals of governance in Confucianism are 'valuing harmony', 'the unity of heaven and humanity', 'governing with virtue', and 'treating the common people with respect'. Benevolence is indeed the way of kingship"

If Wei completely zoned out, Princess Xianning gently poked her. Only then did she regain her focus and listen attentively to the debate in the room

Ah, what a pity! I think this courtyard is better than those palaces in the East and West Halls!" Ruo Wei said with great regret, mumbling.

What a stunningly beautiful princess of the Ming Dynasty, thought Ruowei to herself

In the princess consort's chamber, after the daily morning and evening rituals of greeting, the princess consort specifically kept him behind, dismissing the palace maids and eunuchs. She gazed at him intently, a faint smile appearing at the corners of her lips, her tone very gentle: "Jier, in a couple of days, a girl will be entering the palace..."

Ruo Wei's face suddenly turned red

The individuals studying in the Eastern Palace study alongside the Crown Prince's eldest grandson Zhu Zhanji include four elder grandsons. In addition to Zhu Zhanji, there is his full-brother, the second grandson Zhu Zhanrong, the third grandson Zhu Zhankai, born of the Crown Prince's consort Guo, and the fourth grandson Zhu Zhanjun, born of the Crown Prince's concubine Li Xuan.

She is dressed in a red smoke-patterned silk robe and a white scattered flower skirt, her hair like mist, with a tail cascading down her chest, a diagonal white magnolia and jade hairpin, her complexion radiant and her eyebrows resembling spring water

"Oh?" Zhu Zhanrong turned his gaze and casually sat opposite Zhanji, "Brother, what is the matter? In the past, whenever you obtained something good, didn't you always bring it to show me?"

The eunuch Xiaoshanzi, standing behind him, lightly coughed and said: "Your Highness, the Second Imperial Grandson has arrived"

Zhu Zhanji glared fiercely at Xiao Shanzi: "Are you feeling restless again? This is none of your business, so go away!"

Zhu Zhanji remained silent, and he could not help but recall the conversation he had with the Crown Princess a few days ago

Why? A cold voice suddenly sounded

Childishness? Beauty? Innocence?

Yao Guangxiao stood to the side, watching them converse with a smile

Zhanji is indeed outstanding; no wonder among so many imperial grandchildren, the Emperor loves him the most! Princess Xianning wore a smile with a hint of meaning on her face, her gaze fixed intently on Ruowei: "What do you think? How do you see it?"

Uncle Wang is absolutely right, but has he ever considered where the petty person comes from? Why do petty people exist? Given the significant differences between petty people and gentlemen, how should a gentleman respond when encountering a petty person? And how should a ruler mediate? How should one weigh the balance? Looking at Han Wang gradually falling into the trap, Ruo Wei could not help but chuckle inwardly. Having killed countless people in his life and using force to assist Zhu Di in seizing the imperial power, Han Wang was wholeheartedly intent on replacing the crown prince. The crown prince was weak and sickly, not to be feared, yet there happened to be a virtuous and well-known imperial grandson. Although he was merely a grandson, it seemed that in recent years, Zhu Di had poured all his efforts into nurturing him, deliberately intending to establish him as the crown prince.

A close examination reveals many merits in various aspects

Like a deity, exuding an unparalleled charm that captivates the heart and mind

Buddhas require gold adornments, and people require fine clothing

Before the words had left his mouth, a chubby boy of about ten years old, dressed in a purple robe, came running over

"Yes, my son understands!" Zhu Zhanji nodded repeatedly

Zhu Zhanji suddenly understood

If Wei slightly nodded

If Wei seemed to understand after scratching his head, he immediately followed along with great enthusiasm

It is said that before the princes begin their studies, the Emperor must personally issue an order to hold a solemn ceremony, after which they may commence their reading. This is known as the entrance to the cabinet. When Zhu Zhanji first entered the cabinet to study, Zhu Di appointed a group of highly talented senior officials for him, among whom was Yao Guangxiao, the chief minister and a meritorious minister of the "Jingnan" campaign.

Elder brother! He rushed in with great haste, and upon entering the pavilion, he could hardly stop for a moment. Zhu Zhanji gently pulled him and said, "Zhan Yong, how many times have I told you? You are still so reckless. Be careful that Mother Empress sees you; she will scold you again"

"Who is sighing? It seems that someone does not agree with the words of the Prince of Yue!" Yao Guangxiao's gaze was piercing, directed towards the window.

Princess Xianning was both amusing and infuriating. Seeing her delicate and innocent face, exuding an air of purity, I couldn't help but gently pinch her cheek and say, "You, being so young, actually have such thoughts. It is truly amusing."

Who is this person? They look somewhat familiar. Before I could think further, I heard Zhan Ji calmly say: "Uncle Wang must have heard the words from the Analects: 'The noble person is open and at ease, while the petty person is always anxious; the noble person cherishes virtue, while the petty person cherishes material possessions; the noble person is concerned with justice, while the petty person is concerned with favors; the noble person seeks from within, while the petty person seeks from others.'"

This is the residence of the Crown Prince Zhu Zhanji.

Her entry into the palace was clearly decreed by the Emperor's ancestor, which confirmed her identity, prepared for the Eastern Palace, and awaited her years in the palace; she was destined to be his future princess

"Where to?" Zhan Yong asked blankly. His elder brother, who was so unpredictable today, felt so unfamiliar in his memory.

It was not until the death of Empress Xu that he moved into the Crown Prince's palace, thus he never had the same natural closeness with the Crown Princess as his second brother Zhan Yong did

"It is the Second Imperial Brother," Princess Xianning leaned closer to Tian Ruowei and whispered.

She took a deep breath: "It was your grandmother who recommended her to the Emperor; she resides in Zou Ping, and her father is the registrar of Yong Cheng"

Princess Xianning was born to Empress Xu, and naturally she is delicate. Now that the Empress has passed away, His Majesty has specially appointed Concubine Wang to take care of her, and she will be residing in her palace tonight. Xiangting gently lifted the drooping willow branches and spoke eloquently.

"Not bad, I think so too!" A cheerful voice came from afar. If Wei were to stop and take a closer look, she would see that the speaker was a beautiful woman in palace attire, standing on the balcony of the library, gazing down.

What kind of realm is it when the talented scholars speak of "Life and death are bound together, as we speak to each other; hand in hand, we grow old together"?

Miss, this is the Chengqutang, specially granted by His Majesty for Princess Xianning to study in! Xiangting will introduce it on behalf of you

The faint fragrance of idle flowers

By the banks of the Luo River, stepping in shoes adorned with exquisite patterns, trailing a gossamer skirt as light as mist, subtly exuding a faint fragrance of orchids, I stroll leisurely along the mountainside; occasionally leaping with joy, playing while walking; on my left, colorful flags lean beside me, and on my right, branches of osmanthus provide a cool shade; I roll up my sleeves and dip my delicate, fair arms into the Luo River, gathering black ganoderma from the rushing waters.

"It is!" Zhan Yong replied, "The teachings of Confucius are profound and extensive. Zhan Yong believes that the concept of 'gentleman' is of utmost importance, as it is simple and clear, achieved through cultivating individuals to attain harmony in the world. The Analects state that a gentleman possesses five virtues: respect, tolerance, trustworthiness, diligence, and kindness. Furthermore, the success of a gentleman also requires: benevolence, knowledge, and perseverance. Benevolence refers to the five virtues mentioned earlier, knowledge encompasses wisdom, insight, understanding, and experience, while perseverance signifies courage, eternity, and persistence. Therefore, Zhan Yong believes that the essence of Confucianism lies in cultivating individuals to become gentlemen, with benevolence being the fundamental principle of being a gentleman."

On that day, he was dressed in a blue robe and plain clothes, making one think he was merely an accompanying guard. Unexpectedly, he turned out to be the second prince of the current emperor, Zhu Gaoxu, the Han King, who held significant military power and achieved remarkable feats in the Jingnan Campaign

According to Princess Xianning, the current Emperor has very strict academic requirements for the princes. They are required to begin their studies at approximately 5:15 AM and may only dismiss class after 3 PM, regardless of the harshness of winter or summer. Throughout the year, there are no holidays except for five days: the Dragon Boat Festival, the Mid-Autumn Festival, the Longevity Festival, the birthday of the prince himself, and on New Year's Eve, when classes may be dismissed early.

Zhu Zhanji smiled faintly and said: "The essence of Confucianism lies in 'governing a country with a thousand chariots, being respectful and trustworthy, practicing frugality and loving the people, and employing the populace at the right time.' However, for a ruler leading a great nation with a thousand chariots, it is not only essential to diligently manage affairs, uphold trust, govern with frugality, and care for the people, but more importantly, to understand the principle of balance. All things may seem complex, yet their essence is quite simple. The so-called kingly way is merely the concept of balance. Whether it be the cunning of a tyrant in chaotic times or the capability of a minister in peaceful times, regardless of whether one is a gentleman or a petty person, whether one is close to the people or exploits them, whether one is benevolent or violent, only through balance can there be lasting peace"

Although the two were separated by five or six years, they immediately felt a connection upon meeting. As they chatted and laughed, noon arrived in the blink of an eye, and the princess specially invited Ruowei to join her for lunch

"Oh?" Ruo Wei looked at the princess and said, "I did not expect this either. I thought that as a princess of noble birth, you would simply learn as you please and act according to your whims. I did not expect that you would also want to learn these skills?"

At this point, Zhu Zhanji suddenly understood. He immediately stood up and cupped his hands in salute, saying: "Mother, do not worry, I understand!"

At this moment, all the questions in my heart transformed into curiosity and affection. The girl's lively eyes and sweet smile showed no trace of pretentious shyness, making her far more pleasant than the palace ladies and noble daughters I had seen in the past. Thus, I couldn't help but tease her: "Although this place is nice, it is just too quiet. When night falls, the sound of the wind and the cries of the cranes make it seem as if ghostly shadows flicker past the window, which is truly frightening. If you were to live here alone, would you be afraid?"

The crown princess was taken aback, not expecting that the question he would ask was such a statement

The message reached the Crown Princess's palace, and Zhang Yan felt a mix of joy and worry in her heart. Looking at the book "The Diamond Sutra" on the table, she murmured to herself: "Jingzhi, your daughter is ultimately different from you. She has not inherited your detachment and moderation. She knows better than you when to advance and retreat, and she is more proactive than you." She opened the sutra and once again began to read it carefully from the beginning.

Princess Xianning smiled even more brightly: "Is it now unreasonable for Father Emperor to randomly match couples?"

However, it was not until two days ago that I saw Ruowei

The teacher will select some political issues for the princes to address, just as assignments are given to students, whether through oral judgments or written responses, thereby connecting the knowledge from books to practical application and enabling active learning.

If Wei's palms were all sweaty and his heart was racing, at that moment, Zhanji, who was sitting by the window, stood up and slowly replied: "What Yingdi said is indeed very reasonable. If one is a gentleman, achieving the five virtues and understanding the eternal is perfection. However, if one is a ruler and takes this as the way of kings, it is somewhat biased"

The study room within the Wenhua Hall is where the imperial grandsons of the Eastern Palace receive their education

"Let us go, Zhan Yong!" He stood up and walked towards the corridor

The princes entered school at the age of six. Princess Xianning said softly, and Ruowei nodded slightly

In the study, there are four stools and four high tables, with books and writing implements placed on the tables. In the center, there is a specially arranged set of table and chairs for the master.

As soon as these words were spoken, Zhan Yong immediately looked at his elder brother with admiration, and then cast a sidelong glance at the Han King in a teasing manner

Second Brother? That would be Han Wang, Ruo Wei nodded slightly. However, heavens, Ruo Wei recalled that he was clearly the one who, during the quiet of the night at the Dengzhou Post Inn, harmonized with Sister Fu Ji's jade flute using his own bamboo flute.

Little girl! Princess Xianning suppressed a laugh and glared at her: "How long do you intend to be stubborn? Since that is the case, come with me!"

Xiao Shanzi chuckled softly and said, "Second Prince, would you like me to take you to see Miss Ruo Wei at Jingya Pavilion?"