Chapter 1, The Return of Princess Ancheng

Shu Yi ordered his subordinates to go and transport the grain, while he remained here to protect Bai Wanlu and Liu Xiaoyun

Well, a good man, a noble concubine

Bai Wanlu said: "You are a ruler of a nation, who would dare to take your woman?"

"You wouldn't come here sneaking around, would you?" Bai Wanlu attempted to pry open Zhou Junyi's hand, but unfortunately, her strength was no match for his.

"You dare to call me by my name, you scoundrel, I shall punish you"

Seeing Liu Xiaoyun in a flurry of activity by herself, the able-bodied citizens approached her one after another, saying: "Miss Liu, let us help you"

"Wan'er, I am going to the border," Zhou Junyi suddenly became melancholic. Bai Wanlu was taken aback and did not dare to pull his hand away any longer

Liu Xiaoyun walked over and said earnestly, "Your Highness, do not forget your identity"

Dismiss the court

The outside world is filled with blooming flowers and lush willows, yet this place is barren and shrouded in smoke. Within the city walls, the people cower timidly in their dilapidated homes, where a hungry infant cries loudly, while the mother feeds him water using boiled straw.

That was the first time Bai Wanlu witnessed Zhou Junyi employing such astonishing skills. He did not attack the Iron Palm Killer, but rather nimbly toyed with them. His footsteps were like a phantom, seemingly possessing profound and unfathomable lightness of body. As his arms swung down, they appeared to lack any strength, yet when they struck his opponents, they were filled with tremendous power

Within the royal city, ever since she became the "White Sparrow Consort" and found herself with nothing to do, Bai Wanlu felt as if she was on the verge of wasting away

It is! Everyone obeys the command

An Cheng, with joy written all over her face, hurriedly lifted the curtain and called out: "Brother Jun Shang!"

Bai Wanlu was taken aback, looking at Ancheng in surprise

What constitutes a lowly matter?" Bai Wanlu asked, losing her smile. "For the princess, planting and tending to flowers are lowly, while appreciating flowers is noble? Is giving birth a lowly act? Is receiving filial piety from children considered noble?"

Could it be a trap?" Gu Ying frowned

"Hmm, that makes some sense," Zhou Junyi continued, "I also feel that one Gu Ying is not enough. Your Excellency, your son should have rested enough by now, right? Let him accompany me to the border."

Zhou Junyi was taken aback and hurriedly said: "Shu Yi! Evacuate the civilians! Gu Ying, go find General Zhu and set up the defense net to prevent a surprise attack from the enemy!"

Bai Wanlu widened her eyes and said, "Are you going out?"

"Ancestor, this is not going out to have fun! This is going out to fight!" the little house said with concern.

Not long after, Shu Yi returned with the troops that had gone out. He reported to Zhou Junyi: "In the midst of the chaos, I heard some people say that hundreds of birds ignited the military supplies and tents. Now the fire has spread and cannot be extinguished. It seems that this time they can only retreat to their old nest."

I accept the command! Gu Ying, clad in armor, emanated a chilling aura as he turned and exited the military camp, issuing orders to a hundred elite soldiers to guard the city gate on the walls of the garrison city

The people within Lingzhou City knelt down in reverence, saying: "We respectfully welcome Princess Ancheng back to the city"

Bai Wanlu's lips curled into a smile as she said, "Call your brothers and sisters to join us, the more the merrier"

The enthusiasm and unity of the common people deeply moved Liu Xiaoyun, providing comfort to the hearts of the injured soldiers

Zhou Junyi suddenly curled up the corners of her mouth and said, "Staring at me like this, have you realized that you are about to fall in love with me?"

Bai Wanlu smiled and said, "Perhaps this ability is innate. I have been drifting around since childhood, and from the moment I can remember, I have been able to converse with birds. This has not been a bad thing for me; sometimes it even helps me."

Ancheng raised his head and scolded, "What do you know? Fool!"

An Cheng's finger trembled inexplicably, and memories of the past that she was most unwilling to confront flooded her mind. She lowered her head, her eyes misting over, and gritted her teeth, saying: "That's not true!"

There are palace maids whispering to each other in private

The other placement is the kitchen

Held in his embrace, Bai Wanlu struggled and said, "What are you doing?"

"Master Shu," Bai Wanlu continued, "come with me to prepare some food, and let someone help distribute it to everyone. Also..." Before she could finish her sentence, the entire garrison city suddenly shook under the cannon fire, and the citizens screamed in fear, huddling together.

"Shu Yi." Zhou Junyi called Shu Yi and said, "You and the late noble consort along with Miss Liu are here to take care of the people. Take a portion from the military rations to prepare food for them. Gu Ying and I will go find the local commanders."

Be careful! Gu Ying grabbed Liu Xiaoyun's wrist, pulling her close and landing her on Zhou Junyi's carriage

Suddenly, the arms around the waist tightened even more. Zhou Junyi nuzzled against Bai Wanlu's neck and said contentedly, "Wan'er, are you willing to admit that you are my woman now?"

Zhou Junyi smiled faintly and said, "The fourth brother's suggestion is good, but nothing can stabilize the morale of the army more than the presence of a sovereign. I have decided to go to the border with Gu Ying to support the soldiers."

Looking at the swirling red and thick smoke in the distance, General Zhu questioned, "Commander Shu and his team won't arrive that quickly."

Zhou Yueling said: "We can first send someone to ride swiftly through the night to the border, to stabilize the morale of the troops. I am willing to lead the reinforcements and supplies from the Ministry of War to provide assistance."

Ancheng decided not to take the car and walked back with his brother. Ancheng linked arms with Zhou Junyi and acted coyly.

Ancheng—at this moment, Ancheng suddenly heard a familiar voice coming from outside the sedan chair

The spring colors are bright and beautiful, and petals blown in from outside the city float above Lingzhou City. A horse-drawn carriage approaches gracefully from outside the city, and the curtain of the carriage is lifted, revealing a face as radiant as the spring light.

Thus, she insisted on trimming the flower branches in the Imperial Garden alongside the palace maids, who had no choice but to comply with her wishes

The army sounded the emergency horn, and upon seeing this, the besieging enemy had no choice but to abandon this city and hurriedly returned to their camp

Speak and let me listen

Watching the soldiers rise again to resist the war, Bai Wanlu stood in the night, draped in a cloak, gazing blankly at the vast darkness.

An Cheng was taken aback, looking at Bai Wanlu's sincere gaze. For a moment, he lowered his head, and the tightly clenched fist suddenly relaxed.

Bai Wanlu was taken aback for a moment, then her gaze turned somewhat pitying as she asked, "Is there anything I can do?"

The common people slowly emerged from their houses, their eyes filled with warmth and anticipation as they gazed at Bai Wanlu, as if they were looking at a beam of life-saving light

Shu Guoyu echoed from below the hall: "It is rare for His Royal Highness the Fourth Prince to have such a heart, Your Majesty, I second this proposal."

"Wan'er, you are hiding just like them." After giving Bai Wanlu a stern reminder, Zhou Junyi hurriedly made his way to the city wall

Originally, Zhou Yueling intended to invite Ying to the border to gain the trust and support of the soldiers, but unexpectedly, Zhou Junyi took the initiative instead! Now, he has also taken Shu Yi away. Is he trying to test what he might do while the monarch is absent during the national sacrifice?

Zhou Junyi poked An Cheng's nose and said, "Alright, alright, let's walk back."

Zhou Junyi curved his lips into a smile and said, "Hmph, I still have many things you don't know about. Would you like to experience them all?"

The evening is lonely, you are not allowed to think

Although Gu Ying and Shu Yi possess profound martial skills, their soldiers are no match for the Iron Palm Killers. One by one, the soldiers are defeated, and Gu Ying and Shu Yi must confront seven formidable enemies

The palace maids, upon hearing this, looked towards the newcomer and all came forward to pay their respects: "Greetings, Princess Ancheng"

Bai Wanlu sat upright with a serious demeanor, yet a hint of playfulness flashed across her face: "Didn’t you already know?"

In the military camp, facing the soldiers kneeling before him, Zhou Junyi showed no sign of anger; on the contrary, his expression was kind as he helped General Zhu to his feet and said, "My soldiers, you have suffered greatly."

Bai Wanlu furrowed her brows. Although she did not understand why An Cheng would react this way, considering that she was after all the princess of the sacrificial state and the most beloved sister of Zhou Junyi, she softened her voice and said: "I am sorry, An Cheng"

Today, there is a joyous occasion at the Royal City of the Festival

Liu Xiaoyun climbed into the car and sat next to Bai Wanlu. Zhou Junyi said: "Don't worry, Gu Ying will take care of these guys"

I understand your meaning, and I will be mindful of it. Bai Wanlu said, holding Liu Xiaoyun's hand, "Having been wild outside, one must always adapt, right?"

Inside the garrison, there are two accommodation areas. One is a medical clinic, where Liu Xiaoyun assists Doctor Xiao, who is extremely busy. The sick commoners and injured soldiers all require immediate medical attention

What does the lonely one want to do? You are the lonely one's beloved concubine, and the lonely one can do anything to you

Zhou Junyi patted the little house on its head and said, "Little house! Quickly say some good words for the lonely one."

"You are the beloved consort of the lonely one; you can do whatever you wish." Zhou Junyi said earnestly while holding Bai Wanlu's face.

Liu Xiaoyun approached Bai Wanlu and said: "Fool, I understand your pain for those palace maids, but you are now in the position of a noble consort, and you must maintain some decorum. Otherwise, if others see you, they will start to gossip."

The Iron Palm Killer did not gain any advantage when facing the combined efforts of three individuals. They exchanged glances and, right under the eyes of Zhou Junyi and the others, vanished into the suddenly rising smoke.

Three days after the victory, having made all necessary arrangements, Zhou Junyi and others set out to return to Lingzhou City

Just as the words were spoken, in an instant, Gu Ying's voice rang out: "Protecting His Majesty and Her Highness is our shared responsibility." Then, he leaped to the rear of the carriage, positioning himself alongside Shu Yi to guard Zhou Junyi's carriage.

Ancheng stood with his hands behind his back, turned around in a circle, and looked at the surroundings before saying: "I heard that my brother, the Emperor, has recently taken a noble consort. As the Emperor's most beloved sister, I naturally had to come and take a look. However..." Ancheng gazed at Bai Wanlu's hands, which were covered in dirt, and asked, "You are a dignified consort, yet why are you doing such menial tasks? Oh... I heard that Sister Bai was originally a servant by the Emperor's side, so it is no wonder."

There, the war rages on, and the common people are displaced; we could be turned into cannon fodder at any moment, Zhou Junyi said earnestly

Without hesitation, they each took on their respective roles and led all the citizens to the safe zone

Zhou Junyi and An Cheng walked slowly towards the city

After the Iron Palm Killer left, Shu Yi, who was just as astonished as Bai Wanlu, half-knelt before Zhou Junyi and said: "This humble servant has failed in protection, and I hope Your Majesty will impose punishment."

"Princess, let us return. The border is in turmoil, and the sovereign is also acting for your well-being," Xiaoling comforted Ancheng from the side

Bai Wanlu walked to the stone table, gently stroking the pot of flowers that Liu Xiaoyun had just brought over, and said: "This magnolia is as white as snow, perfectly in its time of growth, much like Princess Ancheng. As an apology, I would like to present this pot of magnolia to you."

Having said that, he walked out of the kitchen

However, what he sees now is not the case

Zhou Junyi said: "I will definitely return victorious, little house, follow me to the bright moon side to find Wan'er."

General Zhu's eyes brimmed with tears, his hands raised high, as if a lump was caught in his throat: "Your Majesty ... ... "

An Cheng glanced over and approached Bai Wanlu directly. Liu Xiaoyun performed a bow and said: "I have met Princess An Cheng"

Zhou Junyi! Do you think they are all deaf?

"Nonsense, every general of the Lone Great Sacrifice Nation is a true hero!" Zhou Junyi corrected General Zhu's words, saying, "Now that I have arrived, this battle must end in victory! Gu Ying!"

What are you... what do you want to do? This is a carriage! A carriage! Bai Wanlu's face turned red, and her body was already pressed into a half-reclining position by Zhou Junyi.

An Cheng was rendered speechless. She gritted her teeth and turned to say, "Sister Bai has such great enthusiasm! In my opinion, people are of different ranks, and so are matters; one should engage in activities that befit their status. Someone like Sister Bai should not be involved in trivial matters."

Recently, the enemy forces at the border have been causing turmoil, and the soldiers defending the city are lacking in provisions, leading to a decline in morale. The enemy is on the verge of breaching the border.

"Who wants your magnolia flowers?" An Cheng glared at her with displeasure

Zhou Junyi shouted at the retreating enemy troops from the city wall: "Not a single inch of my territory can be lost! No matter how many of you come, my soldiers will kill as many!"

Does Your Majesty truly neglect state affairs as Father said, indulging in a life of pleasure and revelry all day long

"You have punished me, who will protect the lonely?" Zhou Junyi helped Shu Yi up

"Hundreds of sparrows?" General Zhu exclaimed in astonishment, his mouth agape

Shu Yi was taken aback for a moment, then gradually calmed the expression on his face

Ancheng cradled her face, a joyful glow radiating from her features: "Finally back, I really miss you, my dear brother. "

However, at this moment, she felt a greater respect for Zhou Junyi, a respect akin to that for a sovereign.

"I didn't mean that." Bai Wanlu wanted to explain something, but suddenly her hand was grabbed by Zhou Junyi. With a turn, she found herself facing Zhou Junyi, who held her in his arms and asked, "Wan'er, will you come with me to the border? Are you afraid?"

The ministers all expressed their agreement! All the officials knelt down, except for Guo Mingcheng and his son Guo Weiqing, who remained standing

The sound of flirtation and banter came from within the carriage, and Gu Ying, riding ahead, exchanged a glance with Liu Xiaoyun, smiling helplessly.

"Who asked you to apologize?" An Cheng said, hanging his head, murmuring in a tone of complaint

What of the carriage? They cannot hear it

Shu Yi thought for a moment and said, "Very well, then I shall take my leave."

"Do you not feel that loneliness is unfathomable?" Zhou Junyi said proudly

The palace maids present were all so frightened that they knelt on the ground, not daring to speak further

At the entrance, one gazes inside, where there is a dim light; however, looking from inside to outside, everything is quite clear. Bai Wanlu observed all of Shu Yifang's previous entanglements.

However, just as the two armies faced each other, a large flock of birds stealthily appeared above the enemy camp, carrying dry branches and leaves. Among them, one larger bird was surprisingly carrying a branch with glowing embers. The branch was dropped onto the supplies and tents, and the flames quickly spread, causing the stationed soldiers to panic. Just as they rushed to extinguish the fire, the birds flew towards them like arrows released from a bow, attacking the soldiers' exposed skin with their sharp beaks and claws

A few sparrows fluttered their wings and flew over. Bai Wanlu looked at them and said solemnly: "I need your help. Is that possible?"

Liu Xiaoyun secretly tugged at Bai Wanlu's sleeve, and An Cheng, infuriated, turned around and pointed at her: "You!" "The princess, born of noble lineage, has enjoyed wealth and splendor since childhood. This place is where the lower class resides. I shall send someone to escort the princess back immediately," Bai Wanlu said淡淡地.

That night, the sound of resounding military songs and high-spirited shouts echoed within the fortress, as the soldiers celebrated their victory by lighting bonfires in the city

Ah—don't touch me!

However, upon seeing the appearance of Bai Wanlu, An Cheng was taken aback

Bai Wanlu does not resemble Sister Mei; whenever I see her, she always wears a flattering and ingratiating expression, pretending to be familiar. It is no wonder that the elder brother of the Emperor would be fond of someone as pure and untouched by the mundane world as Bai Wanlu.

"Elder brother also wants to go to Ancheng," Zhou Junyi said, gently stroking Ancheng's head with affection

Bai Wanlu was startled and quickly grabbed Zhou Junyi's wrist, saying: "You... what are you doing?"

"Sister Yun, please don't be so fierce," Bai Wanlu said, trying to mediate for the two girls.

"Go in," Gu Ying said softly to Liu Xiaoyun

"It is not for my own good." An Cheng, feeling dejected, led the horse back home.

Upon arriving at the Mingyue Chamber, Liu Xiaoyun happened to be stepping out to fetch water. Zhou Junyi stopped Liu Xiaoyun's greeting, signaling for them to wait outside while he entered the room to find Bai Wanlu

The soldiers of the garrison won the favor of the ruler, their morale greatly boosted, and successfully repelled the enemy forces

The humble general will obey the command! General Zhu bowed his head and knelt on the ground, performing a full prostration.

"General Zhu," Zhou Junyi said again

"General Gu, leave this to your subordinates. You take His Majesty and Her Highness and leave first!" Shu Yi said while engaging the enemy in front.

Immediately, Zhou Junyi looked at Bai Wanlu, who said: "You can rest assured, I will take care of things here."

"Sigh," Bai Wanlu said with a sigh, "In fact, as a refugee, being raised by the royal family should be considered fortunate. However, the rumors and gossip behind it are truly unbearable. This royal city is indeed unfathomable."

The citizens gradually gathered on the streets, kneeling and expressing their gratitude: "Long live the Emperor, long live the Empress, thank you, Your Majesty and Your Highness."

Your Highness, it always feels a bit distant

The army traveled for more than ten days before slowly arriving at the border garrison city

Dear brother, I heard that while I was away, you married two more sisters

Now, Your Majesty has arrived, and the city is saved!

The birds suddenly scattered with a "whoosh".

I had known for a long time, but I never dared to be certain, just waiting for someone to confess to me. Zhou Junyi was slightly displeased, her lips curled up high, completely different from the spirited and bold Zhou Junyi of a few days ago

Indeed, let us lend a helping hand as well

Liu Xiaoyun shook her head, pulling Bai Wanlu aside, and slowly said: "Wan'er, there are some things I need to tell you, so that you do not inadvertently touch upon the wounds of Princess Ancheng."

Bai Wanlu looked at the already calmed citizens and said: "I can manage here for the time being; as the Commander of the Ministry of War, you should go assist His Majesty and General Gu."

Watching the army move away, An Cheng felt a bit dazed. Why can the prince take Bai Wanlu with him, and also take the maid beside Bai Wanlu, yet cannot take her along?

Observing his subordinates methodically addressing the aftermath of the battle, Zhou Junyi finally lowered his hand from the curtain and settled down quietly in the vehicle

"Do you have nothing better to do? Just gossiping here?" Behind her, Liu Xiaoyun placed a pot of flowers on the stone table, admonishing two palace maids.

Ancheng sulkily took away Yulan, saying: "I have accepted your flowers, but that does not mean I have forgiven you!" After saying this, he angrily left.

"Everyone, listen to me!" Bai Wanlu climbed onto a stool and shouted, "The Lord of the Nation has not forgotten you. We will definitely win this battle! We have brought food from Lingzhou City, and we ask the able-bodied citizens to help us cook the food and distribute it to everyone. Those who are unwell, please follow Miss Liu; we have also invited a doctor who will treat each and every one of you!"

He merely regards her as a little sister; however, An Cheng does not wish for the prince to see her as a sister. She desires for him to treat her as a woman.

Ancheng, upon hearing this, did not feel happy; instead, he frowned and said: "But I have heard that His Majesty has married two more women. How could he possibly have time to think of me?"

Bai Wanlu secretly glanced at him and said, "I didn't see it before, but you are quite impressive."

"Who is the late Concubine Wan?" A delicate and charming voice came through, carrying a hint of pride.

The common people here are watching with keen interest; if they see any provisions, they will surely rush in to seize them

Yes. Shu Yi cupped his fists in acknowledgment of the order

Shu Yi sighed, shook his head, and silently said: "Shu Yi! Don't think too much! You are the son of the Shu family, your master is the Fourth Master! He is your savior!"

She has also been displaced, and she always feels the need to do something for the people at the border

Bai Wanlu recalled the unusual appearance of Ancheng, no wonder that when she enjoyed wealth and honor since childhood, she would react in such a manner

In an instant, the fire pillars on the city wall were completely obscured, plunging the entire garrison city wall into darkness. The enemy troops, puzzled, suddenly saw streaks of silvery light flashing under the moonlight, only to realize that the garrison city had deliberately caused them to lose their target in order to launch a counterattack

The carriage passed through a dense forest when suddenly, something whistled through the wind. Gu Ying became alert and said, "There is danger!" Before his subordinates could prepare themselves, they saw several iron claws with long chains reaching out towards them

In the hall, Shu Guoyu and Zhou Yueling exchanged a glance, their expressions complex

From the entrance of the royal city to the city gate of Lingzhou, a group of guards and palace maids stood in a row, while the curious onlookers surrounded the passage, making it impossible for water to flow through, constantly whispering to one another

Bai Wanlu stared blankly at Zhou Junyi; at that moment, the sunlight seemed to filter through the car roof and illuminate his perfect profile.

When the army left Lingzhou City, Princess Ancheng rode her horse to catch up, wanting to leave with her elder brother, the monarch, but was stopped and sent back by Zhou Junyi

The "little house" refers to a longing for a master, while "Jun Shang" refers to a longing for a beloved. The little house was overjoyed, and Zhou Junyi smiled and shook his head, not refuting the little house's words

"Yes, Your Highness." Liu Xiaoyun accepted the order

Bai Wanlu changed into more convenient clothing to distribute porridge and vegetables to the common people and soldiers. Seeing that Commander Shu Yi was also helping nearby, Bai Wanlu said: "Commander Shu."

Bai Wanlu avoided Zhou Junyi's intense gaze and said, "What is so terrifying about the boundary?"

Bai Wanlu's calm expression suddenly grew serious. She grasped Zhou Junyi's arm and whispered, "They told me that the enemy is lying in ambush in the mountains under the cover of night, planning to launch a surprise attack on the garrison with rockets"

Meanwhile, under the cover of night, Shu Yi was leading a group of people stealthily out through the side gate of the city.

"Well, be careful." Zhou Junyi advised, and then he and Gu Ying went to the military.

The small house wished that His Majesty would triumph at once

This empress truly does not resemble an empress at all, lacking any semblance of arrogance

No, that is indeed the enemy's military camp, and the enemy troops have really withdrawn said Zhou Junyi淡淡地, as if he had guessed something, but was still not quite sure

The Iron Palm Killers are cold-blooded and ruthless, never uttering a word more than necessary. When the two sides engage in battle, the situation is intense, and Liu Xiaoyun grips Bai Wanlu's arm tightly as she watches.

This is indeed a city from which it is very difficult to escape once you enter. Liu Xiaoyun also sighed and then softly recited, "As long as one does not betray their original intention, that is enough"

May you achieve victory, as expressed by Bai Wanlu.

The tense Bai Wanlu let out a long sigh and couldn't help but say, "Just like her brother, really difficult to deal with, but this girl is indeed quite interesting"

Liu Xiaoyun reminisced: "Gu Ying told me that Princess Ancheng is actually the adopted daughter of the Emperor's mother. Back then, Princess Ancheng was merely a ragged refugee from a neighboring country, unable to even afford a meal. The Emperor's mother, seeing her plight, brought her back to the sacrificial state and raised her as an adopted daughter, fearing that the young girl would be bullied. The former Emperor then conferred upon her the title of Princess Ancheng."

An Cheng stared at Bai Wanlu, scrutinizing her from head to toe, and then cheerfully greeted her: "An Cheng has met Sister Bai."

Why are you so agitated, my beloved? I merely miss you

The protective net has been raised from the moat, a copper net several zhang high, serving as the last line of defense for the city. While it can withstand the enemy's rockets, it cannot hold out for long.

Zhou Junyi furrowed his brows: "Lead the elite troops to repel the enemy forces! Protect our sacred nation and its territory!"

Bai Wanlu let out a faint sigh, "You were just attacked, and yet you can still smile. What kind of ruler are you, really?"

Let the coachman stop the carriage, and An Cheng jumped down, rushing into Zhou Junyi's embrace, saying: "Brother Jun, An Cheng has missed you so much."

On the carriage, Zhou Junyi sat side by side with Bai Wanlu and said: "So it turns out that my beloved consort also possesses the ability to command a hundred birds; the strategy of setting fire to the camp is truly excellent"

"Alas, you..." Liu Xiaoyun could do nothing about Bai Wanlu and could only sigh

The birds excitedly began to spin around

Zhou Junyi got onto the carriage, while Liu Xiaoyun walked out from inside and remounted her horse. The horse had just been startled, and Gu Ying was calming it down. He looked up at Liu Xiaoyun and said, "Come a little closer to me." Liu Xiaoyun nodded.

Upon hearing this, Liu Xiaoyun furrowed her brows, while Bai Wanlu responded with ease. She smiled gently and said: "Is this something that a servant would do? A few days ago, I complained to His Majesty that he has been protecting me too well. If I do not engage in some activities, I will surely become stale all over. Therefore, with His Majesty's consent, I came here to tend to the flowers in the imperial garden, so that they may bloom even more splendidly next year, just as I wish for the prosperity of our great nation."

Bai Wanlu turned her head to look at Liu Xiaoyun, understanding the meaning behind her words, and said: "I will, Sister Yun"

The general Zhu kneels down.

Your Majesty, I, your humble servant, have a proposal to present.

Lady Bai Wanlu offered a resolute smile and said: "The Sovereign has not forgotten you! I am the Imperial Concubine appointed by the Sovereign, and this is Lord Shu Yi, the Commander of the Military Department of the Royal City. We are both entrusted by the Sovereign to stay here and take care of you. At this very moment, the Sovereign and General Gu Ying are discussing military matters with the city garrison leaders. Please believe that the Sovereign has not abandoned any of the citizens of the nation."

In the end, I swallowed my unspeakable words and said: "The garrison city is lacking in food and water, and the common people have nowhere to go! I am incompetent, I am incompetent!"

What happened?" Zhou Junyi sensed that something was wrong

Suddenly, she seemed to remember something and let out a whistle

"Sister Yun," Bai Wanlu instructed, "you take the ailing commoners to Physician Xiao for treatment"

Zhou Junyi sent people to repair the houses of the common people, and smiles long absent appeared on their faces. A few birds flew into the garrison city and landed on the shoulders of Bai Wanlu.

What happened to her?" Bai Wanlu asked

Zhou Junyi surprisingly possesses such skills, yet when faced with her bullying, she has never revealed it from beginning to end

However, Your Majesty, I must remain here to protect the Empress.

Zhou Junyi smiled, slightly tilting her head back as she leaned against the carriage and said, "Managing so many affairs every day is already exhausting enough; why should I make myself even more tired? As an ordinary person, it is impossible to make everyone like me, let alone as a ruler of a nation. If daily life is so tense, what is the meaning of living?"

Gu Ying mounted his horse and said: "Lift up the injured brothers, we shall continue on our journey to the next place to treat everyone"

Liu Xiaoyun looked up at Bai Wanlu, a gentle smile appearing on her face

You will definitely like her too

The Iron Palm Assassins are a notorious assassin organization in the martial world; as long as someone pays them, they will kill for that person, never inquiring about the identity of the target

One must remain true to their original intentions in order to attain happiness

"It’s alright, it is very safe here," Bai Wanlu said with a slight smile

I told you, do not call me "Your Highness." Bai Wanlu pouted, slightly dissatisfied

"Let it be as it is. I would like to ask Fourth Brother, the Grand Tutor, and Lord Guo to share my burdens in the court." Zhou Junyi said slowly, as if he had already seen through Zhou Yueling's thoughts

What instructions do you have, Your Highness? Shu walked over.

Indeed, it is said that the one most favored by His Majesty is her

The will of the ruler cannot be defied, and Zhou Yueling and others could only comply.

"How can such a thing be given to a child?" Upon seeing this, Bai Wanlu approached, intending to take out the provisions she carried with her, but Zhou Junyi grasped her wrist and shook his head.

This woman is truly a fool! Clearly, her status is higher than that of this false princess, so why is she apologizing?

Zhou Junyi played the trick and said: "I won't. Later, do you think it is better for me to leave you here or take you to the border? Leaving you here is not good; you will be bullied. Even if you are bullied, what if someone takes a liking to you? What should we do then?"

"Therefore, Wan'er is a treasure." Zhou Junyi suddenly embraced Bai Wanlu and said with affection

"Alright then," the little house cheerfully followed Zhou Junyi and said, "Are you missing the Empress, Your Highness? I miss the Empress too"

Wow, Imperial Concubine? Who is so fortunate to be on the same level as Sister Mei right from the start

As the copper net was raised, the enemy's rockets appeared densely in the night sky

I, the minister, respectfully greet you with clasped hands

The sovereign is the ruler of a nation, and it is quite normal for him to marry two women; however, the princess is the sovereign's only sister, which makes this situation different. Xiaoling comforted Ancheng, and upon hearing this, Ancheng smiled again, feeling that Xiaoling's words made sense

Zhou Junyi held her even tighter and said, "I am reluctant to leave Wan'er"

Standing at the kitchen door, Shu Yi gazed at the gray, overcast sky, then looked at the comings and goings of the common people and the injured soldiers, and suddenly, her youthful brows furrowed tightly.

Princess Ancheng is only fifteen years old, innocent and lovely, easily satisfied. For her, as long as her brother the monarch cares for her, that is better than anything else

That is Princess Ancheng, the youngest sister of Zhou Junyi. Three years ago, their mother passed away, and she has been observing mourning at Qingguang Temple for three years. Today marks the end of that period, and she is setting off to return to the city

"Miss Liu, please take the ailing citizens to Doctor Xiao; it is safe there. Your Highness, let us first withdraw from the danger zone," Shu Yi urged hastily

"Will we really win? Has Your Majesty truly not forgotten us?" an elderly man with a white beard asked tremulously

Hehe. An Cheng contentedly leaned against Jun Yi as they walked into Wang Cheng. At this moment, for An Cheng, the entire world consisted only of her and her elder brother, the Emperor.

She was dressed simply in a snow-white garment, which complemented her beauty, enhanced by the magnolia flowers. The radiance on her face was gentle, and her gaze was as clear as spring water; how could she possibly resemble someone from a deep palace?

"Your Majesty, please think carefully. The border is engulfed in flames of war, and as the ruler of a nation, you cannot afford to take any risks" Guo Mingcheng said

"Let me go first." Bai Wanlu gasped for breath as she was being choked.

In the blink of an eye, their troops were surrounded. The newcomers were seven masked individuals clad in silver armor, wielding iron claws designed for attacking.

If it were not for following to the garrison city, Shu Yi would certainly think this way. Because, the previous monarch was indeed an impatient person, always thinking about leaving the palace to indulge in pleasures.

"If you cannot protect yourself, just call for help, and I will come to your rescue." Zhou Junyi raised an eyebrow slightly and smiled. Before Bai Wanlu could say anything, she saw Zhou Junyi dart out like the wind.

The atmosphere in the court was oppressive, and the distance to the border was far; it was already too late to send reinforcements.

Only when it reaches this point can the fortress city be considered truly safe

Zhou Junyi lifted the curtain, looked at the other party, and exclaimed exaggeratedly: "How terrifying, these people are so cold!"

The close maid Xiaoling poured a cup of tea for Ancheng and happily said, "You have finally returned, Your Highness"

The esteemed lord must also be thinking of the princess, indeed.

Shu Yi looked at Zhou Junyi, swallowed hard, and said: "Your Highness... excellent skills"

"Are you the Princess of Ancheng? I heard from the little house that you are returning today. Why aren't you resting well and have come here instead?" Bai Wanlu asked

You! Let go of me! I am not your beloved! You said it had to be with my consent, and I haven't agreed yet!" Bai Wanlu, furious, wanted to pull her hand back to hit Zhou Junyi, but Zhou Junyi held her hand tightly, saying in a nauseating manner: "No, it's so hard to wait for Wan'er to speak. My Wan'er, I was so uncomfortable these past few days, just satisfy me a little, okay?"

Ah, the Iron Palm Killer... Gu Ying savored this name with great interest

Zhou Junyi's tone softened: "Lead the suffering soldiers to fill their stomachs, and then charge into battle, killing those bastards for me!"

Zhou Junyi and Gu Ying exchanged a glance, and they both already had the answer in their hearts

At that moment, Bai Wanlu was putting on her outer garment when Zhou Junyi quietly approached and embraced Bai Wanlu from behind

The palace maids hurriedly paid their respects: "Sister Yun."

At this moment, the rockets outside the city walls gradually diminished, and Gu Ying immediately commanded the soldiers, saying: "Counterattack!"

Indeed, it is her royal brother who has come to Lingzhou City to personally welcome her

After the court session, Zhou Junyi strode back to the palace, stretched his arms and yawned, and excitedly said: "I can go out to play again, how delightful!"

"Waner, if necessary, could your skills ensure your own safety?" Zhou Junyi suddenly began to roll up his sleeves.

"Narcissist." Bai Wanlu shot him a glance.

Bai Wanlu agreed to go to the border for the sake of the words "the people are displaced"