One Phoenix Nine Dragons 104125

104 What is love in this world?
"Waaah, please, Your Highness, have mercy! This servant really doesn't know, waaah, I really don't know. Waaah!" A girl wailed loudly, like someone at a funeral. She woke me up
.
Damn it! Why can't I get a good night's sleep? What's with all this wailing? I closed my eyes and frowned in annoyance.
"Please, Your Highness, have mercy!" It seems there's more than one person having an episode early in the morning. And judging from the situation, the culprit should be that Beigong Zheng. Shouldn't he be
there , lamenting the brevity of spring night? Why is he going crazy outside so early in the morning? I wanted to get up and see what he was up to.
"Oh, my head hurts so much!" I didn't realize how bad it was until I moved. My head felt like it was going to explode.
"Dou Dou, don't move. I'll go get you some hangover soup." A man's voice. I didn't answer immediately, nor did I scream like a
ghost . Instead, I slowly tried to recall what had happened.
Before I could even figure it all out, the ghostly screams came from outside again.
"Go find him! If you don't find him, don't ever come back! Get out!" Good heavens, Bei Gongzheng seems to have a really bad temper. So irritable, I really don't understand
what Zi Luo likes about him.
"Haoran, what's going on?" I was too lazy to think, so I opened my eyes and stared at Haoran in front of me.
"You were drunk last night," Haoran said casually. As soon as he said that, I immediately remembered. Although I hadn't had time to think of the specifics, I was definitely drunk;
that was an obvious fact. So I trusted Haoran's explanation and didn't ask any more questions, because what was happening outside was clearly more
interesting to me.
"What's wrong with Bei Gongzheng so early in the morning?" I spoke up for my brother, Bei Gongzheng, without giving him any face. I was telling the truth, because yelling like that so early in the morning,
what else could it be but going crazy?
"Hehe, you." Haoran seemed quite pleased to hear me say that. Did he think the same thing too, that great minds think alike, and that's why he laughed? Of course, I
knew that was impossible, but I'd assume it anyway.
"What exactly happened?" Now wasn't the time for chatting and joking; it was better to get to the point.
"I'm not really sure either, I'll go check. Zheng rarely gets this angry; something important must have happened." Haoran's expression grew increasingly serious as he spoke; it seemed he cared quite a bit about his younger
brother . But what important thing could happen so early in the morning? Knock knock ... "What happened?" Haoran asked the person standing outside as soon as he opened the door, indicating that he hadn't invited anyone in, and I figured the person outside probably didn't want to come in either. "Big brother, Doudou and Zilu have both left." Beigong Zheng's tone was extremely anxious. I noticed that this time he called him "big brother" instead of "royal brother." It was clear that he was both anxious and indecisive. But why did he say that Zilu and I were missing? I'm right here! Could it be that Zilu really ran away pregnant ? "So, are you more worried about Doudou or Zilu?" Haoran was really something else. At this point, instead of helping to find them, he was trying to get the truth out of me. I can only say: Beigong Zheng's emperor brother is really not kind. "Big brother, I, of course I'm worried about Doudou." Now I know what it means to be stubborn. If he were worried about me, he wouldn't have hesitated before speaking. "Oh, I see. Then you don't need to worry, Dou Dou is fine." It seems Hao Ran wanted to use this opportunity to make Bei Gong Zheng fully understand his feelings. I actually agreed with this. If he realized his true feelings, then Zi Luo could get the happiness she deserved, and the child could have a complete family. "Where is she? I've searched everywhere except here, and I haven't seen them at all. Could it be..." Bei Gong Zheng's tone changed from certainty to doubt by the end. It seemed he thought I might be in Hao Ran's room. I thought Hao Ran wouldn't let him in, but unexpectedly, Hao Ran not only stepped aside but also gestured for him to enter. The next second, Bei Gong Zheng strode in from outside . "Hi, yes!" I greeted Bei Gong Zheng as he sat on the bed. I noticed that Bei Gong Zheng's initially surprised look dimmed considerably after seeing me. He nodded awkwardly and then started looking around, as if searching for something. "Don't look anymore, Zi Luo isn't here." I knew what he was looking for without even thinking. It's not that I'm smart; anyone with a little bit of intuition could sense it. "I...I didn't look for her." Now I finally know what 'stubborn as a mule' means. It's so obvious, yet he still won't admit it. Fine, today, even if I'll pry him open, even if he's made of iron. "If you didn't look for her, then what were you looking for?" I pressed him aggressively. My head still ached a little, but this argument actually made it feel much better. "I...I didn't look for anything." He was now stubbornly denying everything. "Is that so? Since you don't want to look for Zi Luo, then forget it." To deal with him, I used a trick. "What do you mean?" Heh, it seems to be working; Bei Gongzheng actually fell for it. "What...what do I mean?" Seeing him getting anxious, heh, I started playing dumb again. "I mean, you know where Zi Luo is." Yes, that's more like it. Being honest with your own heart is what makes a good child. However, this kid is usually so arrogant, and I finally got a chance today, so how could I let him off so easily? "Where is Zi Luo? Of course I know. Zi Luo and I are best friends who can talk about anything." I started to evade the main point and deal with Bei Gongzheng by avoiding the key issue. "Tell me quickly, where is she?" Bei Gongzheng seemed to have reached his limit and knew that I was teasing him on purpose, so he simply asked directly. He stopped beating around the bush, and I felt a little unsatisfied. "Didn't you say you were worried about me? Why are you so eager to know where Zi Luo is now? Waaah, you don't love me anymore, waaah, you're fickle, waaah, you 've abandoned me, waaah, you're unfaithful, waaah, you've deceived my feelings..." I started to put on a show like I was acting out a drama. I pretended to cry while rambling on and on. Ugh! When I, Long Dou Dou, was in school, I was the worst at Chinese. But it took a lot of effort to come up with these idioms, so let's not worry about whether they're appropriate to use them or not. The point is that they're very interesting and lively to say.

"Dou Dou, I, I..." My commotion left Bei Gongzheng speechless. Looking at him like this, I couldn't help but burst out laughing. Hehe, it seems being an actor is
n't easy; one wrong move and you're laughing.
"You, what are you saying?" Since I'd given myself away, I didn't need to pretend anymore. I lifted my face, widened my eyes, and stared at Bei Gongzheng with a smile, waiting to see what he had to say.
"I, I'm not worried about Zi Luo, I'm worried about the baby in her belly." This stubborn man... he really made me feel defeated. To be honest, facing one's own
heart is so difficult. Now, "stubborn as a mule" doesn't even begin to describe him; he's practically "deceiving himself."
"Bei Gongzheng, do you know why Zi Luo left you?" I regained my composure and looked at him seriously. Today, I was determined to teach him a lesson, to make him truly understand his
feelings for Zi Luo.
"Why?" Bei Gongzheng stared intently at me; clearly, this was the question that puzzled him the most.
"Tell me first, why do you think it is?" I need to understand his thoughts first, because I really don't understand how stupid a man in love can be.
"I can't figure out why, that's why I want someone to tell me. Why did she leave me? Didn't we talk it over last night? Why, after a night of tenderness
, did she disappear when I opened my eyes? What are women thinking? It's so inexplicable." Damn, I haven't even called Bei Gongzheng a pig-headed idiot, and he's
calling all women inexplicable. I wanted to teach him a lesson, but considering he was 'abandoned,' I'll leave it at that for now and teach him a lesson later.
"After you found out she was pregnant yesterday, what did you say to her that you 'talked it over'? What do you mean? Did you say you loved her? Did you say you wanted to marry her? Did you just say you would
take responsibility and take care of her and the child?" Knowing Bei Gongzheng as an emotional idiot, that's probably what he said.
"Hmm, how do you know you've seen Zi Luo? Did she tell you?" Calling Bei Gongzheng stupid is an understatement; he's really incredibly stupid. He's actually craning his neck again, as if he thinks Zi Luo
should be here.
"Don't look anymore, she's not here." I poured cold water on his hopes.
"Then how did you know?" Bei Gongzheng withdrew his searching gaze and looked at me curiously.
105 Only after losing one thing after another
do we learn to cherish. Why is Bei Gongzheng still unwilling to admit his feelings?
"Because I understand her. She doesn't want you to accept her because of the child. She wants your sincerity, not pity based on a mother's status." I think if it were me, I
couldn't accept a man taking care of me because of the child. At that moment, my feelings would be a desecration.
"You, you mean she thinks I want to marry her because she's pregnant?" Bei Gongzheng seemed to be asking me, but his tone was more like a muttering to himself.
"Isn't that what you think? Have you really realized your feelings for her? Have you ever thought about loving only her from now on? I think even now you
're unwilling to admit you've fallen in love with Zi Luo, aren't you?" I didn't know why Bei Gongzheng was so stubborn, or why he was so awkward and unwilling to admit his feelings. But I knew I was right.
"Why do you think I've fallen in love with her?" Bei Gongzheng looked at me with a confused expression, looking helpless like a child.
"Bei Gongzheng, the reason you think you love me is because I'm different from the people you've known before. The reason you think you don't love Zi Luo, I think, is probably because you're too familiar with her. When
a man feels that something or someone belongs to him, he won't cherish it as much, so you think you don't love Zi Luo." I began to enlighten
him like a love strategist.
"Is that so? I really don't love you, I love her." After hearing Bei Gongzheng's muttered words, I smiled slightly. Hehe, it seems what I said wasn't completely
ineffective . It's a good sign if it works. As long as I keep going, it seems that conquering this city is just a matter of time.
"When you realized I was the only one in the room and Zi Luo wasn't there, how did you feel? Were you disappointed? If so, then I can tell you, yes, you've really
fallen in love with her." I started to hypnotize him. I remembered reading in a book that if you repeatedly emphasize something to someone, they'll come to believe it—it has a hypnotic
effect.
I wasn't being dishonest or lying; I knew Bei Gongzheng truly had feelings for Zi Luo, and I couldn't explain it to him clearly, so this was the only way.
"Here, have some hangover soup." While I was waiting for Bei Gongzheng's reaction, Hao Ran actually pushed open the door and came in carrying a bowl. Then he handed me the bowl. I
looked at him, puzzled. When did he leave? I guess it must have been when I was arguing with Bei Gongzheng earlier.
"Where is she?" Hearing Bei Gongzheng ask this, I smiled inwardly. It seemed he was finally facing his feelings, because his eyes were filled
with eagerness .
"I don't know where she went. Go find her. She truly loves you." All I can do now is make Beigong Zheng realize his feelings. That's all. As for whether they'll be
together, that's up to fate. All I can do now is silently pray for them.
"Thank you, Dou Dou." Beigong Zheng gave me a deep look, then said, "Big brother, I'm going to find her." He walked out of the house and strode away. It seems he's
determined to find Zi Luo even if he has to go to the ends of the earth.
"Dou Dou, drink it quickly, or your head will hurt." Haoran is such a jinx! I'd forgotten about my headache until he mentioned it, and now it's back.
A hangover is so pitiful. I silently vowed never to drink again. Drinking is truly harmful. I frowned, my face contorted in pain, as I gulped down the hangover soup
, instinctively thinking it would taste terrible, like Chinese medicine. However, I also know the saying 'good medicine tastes bitter,' so I didn't drink it voluntarily.
"Wow, it's not bitter at all!" The moment the soup touched my lips, my furrowed brows relaxed, and I exclaimed in surprise, as if I had discovered a new continent.
This 'hangover soup' was not only not bitter, but it also didn't have a strong medicinal taste. It was as refreshing as water; if it weren't for the faint jasmine fragrance, I would have really thought it was just ordinary
water.
"Hehe, close your eyes and rest for a bit, you'll feel better soon." Haoran's words were quite exaggerated. This wasn't some kind of magic pill; how could it possibly make you feel better in a short time
? Although I was quite skeptical, I still obediently closed my eyes because my head really hurt.
"DouDou, go to sleep. I've already had breakfast prepared. You can eat when your head feels better." As soon as Haoran said this, I immediately opened my eyes.
Glug glug glug glug...
Hehe, the mere mention of food excited my stomach, and even I felt more energetic. Food is the most important thing for people, and of course, nothing is more important than eating.
"Hehe, DouDou, are you hungry? Do you want to eat now? I'll have someone bring it over for you." Haoran was really considerate, saying such thoughtful things. However, I'm
very easy to please; as long as there's food, I'm fine. As for being waited on, that's unnecessary.
"Just have them put it on the table, I'll go downstairs to eat." I said, sitting up as I prepared to go downstairs to eat.
"But, doesn't your head hurt anymore?" Haoran's tone and eyes were full of concern.
"It doesn't hurt anymore, it doesn't hurt anymore, you go ahead, I'm starving." I started urging Haoran energetically. I think even a ghost wouldn't believe I was uncomfortable looking like this.
After Haoran left, I jumped off the bed. Hehe, it seems this 'hangover soup' really is a miracle cure; I really don't hurt at all now. Of course, it could also be that the mere mention of food
causes all my nerves to focus on food, so everything else is neglected as if I'm missing a screw.
"Haoran, how come you're here so fast? Did you fly over?" I turned around excitedly when I heard the creak of the door opening.
"Miss Long, hello, it's this old minister." I thought it was Haoran, but it turned out to be old man Xiahou.
"Hehe, hello Lord Xiahou." I greeted the old man with a smile, wondering what he was up to. As the saying goes, no one comes to the temple without a reason, and it's also said that those who come are not well-intentioned. I thought that this
old minister Xiahou must not have anything good to
say at this time. "Miss Long, there's no need for polite words. I think we should get straight to the point." See? You can tell from his tone that he's not here with good intentions.
| Paipai Novel Forum Paipai Xiaoshi Hand-typed, please indicate the source when reprinting |,
Chapter 106 Understanding Haoran's Feelings
"Alright, then just say what you have to say." Obviously, he came prepared, otherwise he wouldn't have come at such a convenient time. Of all times, he had to come in just when Haoran went out
.
"Miss Long, I'd like to escort you back to the palace. What's your opinion?" Old Man Xiahou's expression was quite serious, and his gaze was incredibly sharp as he scrutinized me. But, heh, he's offering
to escort me back—I'd be more than happy to oblige! But what did I do to offend him? Why does he always treat me like a plague, constantly hoping I'll leave? Am I
really that unlikable? "Of course, I'd be delighted to escort you back. But can you tell me what I'm so annoying about you? Why do you always want to get rid of me?" Now that I
have Haoran as my backer, I can speak much more freely. My backer is strong enough, haha.
"Well, it's not that I dislike you; I just don't want you to affect my 'Sunset Kingdom.'" Isn't this old man exaggerating? I don't have that kind of power; he makes me sound like a wicked villain who brings
ruin to the country .
"Lord Xiahou, aren't you flattering me too much? I'm just an ordinary person. I'm neither Bao Si nor Su Daji. How could I possibly have such abilities?" His opinion of me left
me unsure whether to be happy or cry.
"Miss Long, I'm only doing this for the sake of my 'Sunset Kingdom,' just in case. Please understand this old minister's patriotic heart." Ugh! I'm almost speechless at his words. What can I say?
It seems like anything I say would be wrong. But isn't this "prevention is better than cure" a bit too much?
Does every woman who associates with members of their royal family get dismissed like this? Or does he think I'm a vain woman who throws herself at men with status, background, money, and
power? Thinking about this, I felt a little wronged.
“Lord Xiahou, I understand what you mean. I can only tell you that you are worrying unnecessarily and overthinking things. I have never had any designs on Beigong Zheng, nor have I ever thought of
being with Haoran. I have my own husband, so please relax and live your own life. I don't need you to see me off; I will bid farewell to Haoran in a little while. No need to see me off.”
Although spoke with great pride, I was incredibly aggrieved inside.
“Miss Long, I…” Old Man Xiahou looked uncomfortable seeing me like this, his face showing obvious apology and helplessness. Perhaps for a loyal subject, hurting
me was something he felt he had to do.
“I understand. You should go now; Haoran should be back soon.” I can't expect everyone to understand me or believe me; that's impossible. Right now, I just want to know:
how does Haoran see me? Perhaps I should learn to only care about how those who care about me see me. As for others, I should learn to ignore them.
Lord Xiahou gave me a deep look, then turned and left without saying anything, his eyes full of apology. The apology in his eyes proved he knew he had hurt me. But his aged back
conveyed a sense of helplessness.
I didn't understand; if Lord Xiahou didn't truly hate me, why did he treat me this way? When Haoran pushed open the door with the food, I was still lost in thought. I was pondering
why Lord Xiahou's helplessness was so deep, why he couldn't bear to see me with Beigong Zheng or Haoran. Was it because I was a 'foreigner' (in his eyes, I was from 'Shuoyue
Kingdom')?
"Doudou, what are you thinking about so intently?" Haoran placed the breakfast on the table and walked up to me, looking at me with concern.
"Ah, you're back!" I quickly composed myself and gave him a somewhat uneasy smile.
"Doudou, what's wrong? Did something happen?" Haoran seemed to be a very perceptive person; seeing my expression, he guessed that something might have happened
.
"No, nothing happened. I... I just missed home." I said nothing happened simply to avoid the topic. But Haoran's
eyes clearly showed suspicion, so I quickly said I was homesick. However, even though it was just a casual lie, the moment it left my lips, I felt incredibly sad, and tears involuntarily streamed
down my face.
Since arriving in this inexplicable era, I've always lived a pretty good life. I have plenty to eat and play with. And I'm loved and cared for. I've
always carefree and unrestrained life. I've never suffered any injustice. But today, after Lord Xiahou said that, I felt insulted. I felt incredibly wronged. I
've never thought about home before, but now, just mentioning home makes me incredibly sad, and tears keep falling.
"DouDou, don't cry. Why are you suddenly homesick? It's okay. If you miss home, I can go home with you." Haoran's words stunned me. I'm not good at
relationships and have little experience, but in my current depressed state, coupled with Lord Xiahou's words, I clearly felt Haoran's affection.
He liked seeing her expression now, and I almost felt it was an undeniable fact. How could this be? Was I destined never to have a buddy, a
simple male friend?
"Haoran, I want to go home." Perhaps Lord Xiahou had his reasons, perhaps I really had unknowingly seduced Beigong Zheng and Hai Ran. It's just that I, the person involved, didn't know it.
The naked feeling in Haoran's eyes was so obvious that I couldn't deny it even if I wanted to.
"Okay, when do we set off?" Haoran naturally assumed I would go with him. His unwavering tone made me even more certain of his feelings for me.
He wasn't an ordinary person, but the ruler of a country, an emperor. He spoke as if he had nothing to do, as if he was always available whenever I needed to. In this light
, Xiahou's worries were not exaggerated. If Haoran were really with me, and could abandon the country for me at any time, then I would be no different from Bao Si or Su Daji,
and he wouldn't be far from becoming King You of Zhou or King Zhou of Shang.
I didn't want things to become so complicated, nor did I want to be remembered for eternity. I just wanted to live a simple and pure life. Complicated things were not for me. I looked deeply at Haoran and decided to
nip everything in the bud.
Chapter 107 Hurting Him Was Not My Intention
"I mean, I want to go home." I expressed my feelings word by word, expressionless.
"Dou Dou, you mean...?" Hao Ran frowned, his tone becoming serious. I bravely stared at him, for our future freedom, for the possibility of remaining
friends . I wouldn't allow myself to back down even slightly.
"I don't mean anything. I just miss Yu and the others, so I want to go back." I knew Hao Ran was a smart man. His question meant he already knew what
I meant, but what did he mean by asking this? Was he trying to back out? I didn't want to lose our friendship, so I answered deliberately, to make him understand that I wasn't joking.
Hao Ran didn't say anything more, just stared intently at me, clearly unable to accept my sudden change.
"Hao Ran, you must be a good emperor in the future. I'll have the chance to visit you in 'Sunset Kingdom' someday. However, I might not even be able to get into your palace, haha." The atmosphere
was a bit awkward, so I quickly said this, hoping to ease the tension. This also made him understand my feelings, letting him know that a relationship between us was impossible. Since it was destined to be
impossible, at least we should preserve our friendship.
"DouDou, who told you anything?" Haoran's question startled me. I stared at him in surprise, completely bewildered as to how he knew.
"No one. You're overthinking it. I really should go home. Don't worry, you're a high achiever, a very busy person. I know you're busy, so it's fine if you don't have time to think about me
. But don't worry, I'll miss you. Hehe." I desperately didn't want to lose even being friends with Haoran. I also hoped he would stop.
"DouDou, I understand what you mean. I think you understand my feelings for you too. Now I have another question for you: do you like me?" Oh my god, this is what they call "
what you fear most is what happens." How could he say these words so confidently and calmly? But the important thing isn't how he said it, but how I'm supposed
to answer .
"Of course I like you. But there are many kinds of liking. I genuinely consider you a good friend." I thought for a long time before finally saying these words, wondering if this answer would satisfy Haoran
.
"DouDou, what am I supposed to do? Why do you always give me this unpredictable feeling? I always feel powerless when I'm with you. You know, sometimes you're as innocent
as an ignorant child, and sometimes you show extraordinary intelligence. Sometimes I feel like you only have eyes for me, but sometimes, like now, you make me feel like we
're from two completely different worlds.
DouDou, what am I supposed to do? You clearly look at me with such deep infatuation, yet you firmly believe your feelings for me are just friendship. What are you thinking
? Do you really understand love?" Haoran had never said so much before. The helplessness and emotion in his words were almost overwhelming. And what left me speechless was that he
mentioned the word 'love.'
Has Haoran fallen in love with me? Right now, I can only understand liking, but the word 'love' leaves me speechless.
"Haoran, I..." I really didn't know how to answer. I really don't understand love. My husband is destined; I just need to find him. I don't need to
understand . But Haoran looking at me like that left me speechless.
"DouDou, can't you really accept someone who's plain-looking, or even ugly?" Haoran looked at me, his tone filled with anger. It made me feel like a vulgar
person who only likes handsome men. It's not that I'm vulgar or like handsome men; it's just that this is fate.
"Haoran, what's wrong with you today? Don't pressure me like this, okay? I have no choice. You know my situation. I've told you, haven't I?
Or maybe you've been treating my words as a joke all along, never taking them seriously." I clearly told him why I had nine husbands, but why is he saying this today
? Besides not taking my words seriously, there seems to be no other explanation.
"DouDou, just tell me, if a man were as handsome as Gudu Yu and Baima Liuxiang, would you marry him regardless of whether you had feelings for him
or not?" Haoran didn't answer my question, didn't say whether he believed what I had told him before, but instead posed a new question to me. And it was a
question .
"I...I don't know." I genuinely don't know. I've only met a few of my nine husbands, and they're all wonderful; I like them all quite a bit. So I've never
thought about what I would do if I met a simple, handsome man I had no feelings for. Would
I force myself to be with him, or would I give up? Although I don't quite understand love, I know that feelings are exclusive. It's probably because everyone has a share of love. But if that's the case, and everyone
only has one love, then which of my nine husbands will I place my affection on?
"DouDou, what do you know?" Haoran shook his head, his brows furrowed deeply. Although I couldn't see his face, I could imagine the helpless expression on it
.
"I...Haoran. Don't say that to me. Although I don't know much, I know I like you as a friend. I like chatting with you. Hehe.
" I smiled at Haoran. As the saying goes, you don't hit a smiling face. If I smiled and talked to him like this, he probably wouldn't have anything to say.
"Sigh, DouDou, DouDou!" Haoran murmured my name and started shaking his head. A bitter smile appeared on his face. Heh, it was a bitter smile, but at least he smiled; it seemed he really
couldn't do anything about me.
"Haoran, let's stop arguing like this, isn't it better to be happy? I'll leave tomorrow, and I'll definitely come to see you again when I have time, okay?" I smiled at Haoran, hoping
he could let go of his feelings for me and then happily live his future life as an emperor.
"Doudou, we can talk about leaving another day. Tell me first, do you really hate being lied to?" Hearing the word 'lie', I couldn't help but roll my eyes. What a useless person!
"Is it tempting to be lied to? I'm not a masochist.
" "Yes! I hate being lied to! So confess what you lied to me about right now. Tell me now and I might get a lighter sentence. If I find out you lied to me later, hehe, then we
won't even be friends anymore." I always felt Haoran had lied to me about something, otherwise he wouldn't keep bringing it up with such a serious expression. So I wanted to test him.
Haoran didn't speak, just looked at me, as if thinking about something. What was he thinking about? Was he considering 'confessing and getting lenient' or 'getting away with it'?
Knock knock knock knock knock
knock. The door was being pounded on, clearly something urgent. Haoran's eyes darkened, giving me a bad feeling.
"Come in." Haoran's voice was authoritative without being angry, making me realize even more clearly that he really was an emperor, someone different from ordinary people like me.
With a creak, the door opened. Old Man Xiahou walked in. He glanced at me with scrutinizing eyes, a look that made me frown. What was he doing here again?
I had already said I would leave, so what did he mean by coming back? Did he not believe me? Did he think I would complain?
"Greetings to Your Majesty." Old Man Xiahou actually knelt down to pay his respects. This kneeling made my relationship with Haoran even more distant. An old man kneeling before a young man
was unacceptable in my upbringing. But Haoran remained calm. His composure made me feel that I couldn't continue being friends with Haoran.
I didn't even understand myself. I used to be someone who valued equality, so how did I become so worldly? I didn't even want to be friends anymore because of status
.
"Rise. What is it?" Haoran's composure, and the unapproachable air of superiority he exuded, made me feel a little uncomfortable.
Or rather, I hadn't felt comfortable ever since Lord Xiahou said those things to me.
"The Empress is unwell, and the Empress Dowager requests your immediate return." Lord Xiahou, like a minister in a TV drama, stated the purpose of his visit with a dutiful and steady manner. This was none of my business,
but after he finished speaking, he glanced at me. Did he want to see how heartbroken and disappointed I would be after instructing Haoran and the Empress? Although I felt a little
uncomfortable , I absolutely couldn't let him have his way and make a fool of himself.
"Oh God, how could this happen, Haoran? You should leave quickly. Go back and give my regards to your sister-in-law. I have to go home, so I won't go see her." I acted very calmly and composedly
, as if it didn't affect me at all. Only in this way would Xiahou believe that I wasn't the kind of woman he thought I was, not a bad woman who harbored ill intentions towards their Emperor and Princes. But
he didn't know how much I was hurting Haoran by doing this for my own comfort.
"Dou Dou. Are you really that much like him?" As soon as Haoran said this, I realized that I had hurt him, that he was wounded. The pain in his eyes made me feel even worse.
But once the words were spoken, they were like spilled water, impossible to take back.
Chapter 108 Finally,
I See 'Xiaoyao' Again. Seeing Haoran's hurt expression, I couldn't give a definite answer, not even a lie. So my mouth opened and closed, closed and opened again. In
the end, I still couldn't say anything.
"Your Majesty, the Empress Dowager says you must depart immediately." Old Man Xiahou sounded like a wicked mother-in-law trying to break up a couple.
"Doudou, were you telling the truth just now?" Haoran seemed to ignore Old Man Xiahou's presence and asked me the same question again. It seemed this answer was very important to him
, but the more he acted this way, the less I knew how to answer. If I said, "I wasn't being honest," our relationship would become very complicated. Haoran already had a wife, and he
wasn't my destined husband, so why should I destroy his family and cause him trouble? But if I said, "I was being honest," it would hurt Haoran even more. I was so anxious
I was almost crying, but I still couldn't say a word, and I didn't know what to say.
"Were you really sincere just now?" Haoran's eyes were red and swollen, besides the pain. I knew how sad he was. I really wanted to go over and hug
him, to dispel the sorrow in his eyes, but the more he looked like this, the less I could. Because I knew that if I took a step closer, I would have no way out. I never imagined I would be so
important, that my words could so profoundly affect someone, especially an emperor above all others. As the
saying goes, a short pain is better than a long one. For the sake of fewer setbacks in my future love life; for the sake of not ruining Haoran's family; for the sake of Xiahou's loyalty; for the sake of remaining
friends with Haoran in the future... I nodded with a smile.
"Of course I was sincere. What are you saying, haha. Hurry up and pack your things and leave. I know you're eager to go home." A playful smile is my
forte , so at this moment, I decided to play to my strengths and avoid my weaknesses. I used this strength to cover up my awkward situation.
"I'm asking you one last time, are you really sincere?" Oh my god, I can't keep up the act anymore. Haoran's voice was choked with emotion as he said this. It seemed he
was n't just heartbroken, but also somewhat resigned. He looked like a pitiful child, making one want to pity him, but he wasn't just any pitiful child; he was
a stubborn emperor. As an emperor, he had his own pride, and his pride wouldn't allow him to beg. But his choked voice made me feel like he was begging me, begging me not to
abandon him so heartlessly.
What should I do? I absolutely cannot accept his love, because he's not my destined husband. If he isn't, then agreeing to be with him now would only lead to
deeper . 'Knowing there are tigers in the mountains, yet still venturing into the tiger's den' isn't my style. I will absolutely not 'do what I know is impossible.'
Another thing that bothers me is that Haoran is married. Why didn't he tell me beforehand? If we were just friends, it would be one thing if he didn't mention it, but the problem is he fell in love with
me, yet he hid it from me. Hiding it at this moment is tantamount to deception. So I felt extremely uncomfortable.
Therefore, I kept my head down, silent, determined to maintain this 'silence'. But I never expected my silence to agitate Haoran.
"DouDou, answer me!" Haoran gripped my shoulders tightly, the pain forcing me to look up at him. His expression was no longer one of deep sorrow, but rather
anger . His eyes were bloodshot, making him look like a terrifying, bloodthirsty beast.
"Let her go!" A voice rang out, and a joyful smile immediately appeared on my face. I knew that voice all too well, and I missed it terribly. I had
never so happy to hear that voice. But my smile was met with anger in Haoran's eyes. He pulled me into a tight embrace, holding me captive no matter how hard I tried.
With a creak, the door opened.
A dashing figure walked in, still exceptionally handsome, but his expression was unusually serious, and his eyes shone with a cold, unwavering light.
The arrow shot towards Haoran. If eyes could kill, Haoran would already be torn to pieces.
"Xiaoyao." Yes, the person who arrived was none other than my husband, the self-proclaimed number one handsome man in the martial arts world, 'Young Master Xiaoyao'. Seeing him was incredibly exciting, far more so than hearing his voice
. I wanted to rush over and hug him immediately, but Haoran held me tightly in his arms, making it impossible to reach him. Xiaoyao's face, which had
softened , became even more ugly because Haoran prevented him from approaching. His eyes burned with rage, and his entire body radiated a thick murderous aura. It sent
chills down one's spine.
"Let him go." Xiaoyao's voice was cold enough to make a timid person's legs go weak, but Haoran was no ordinary person; he remained unmoved.
"I won't let go until DouDou answers my question." So HaoRan was still stubborn about this. Hadn't I already answered? Did he mean that
if wasn't what she wanted, he'd keep asking until he got a satisfactory answer? That was inhumane.
"If you don't let go, I won't be polite." After saying this, XiaoYao took a step closer to HaoRan, chest puffed out. It seemed a battle was about to break out.
Before HaoRan could answer, I suddenly felt a gust of wind blow into the room through the open door. The wind was strong and fierce. It was so strong I couldn't open my eyes, so I
buried my face in HaoRan's chest.
"Hmph, you think those few can easily defeat me?" I heard XiaoYao's sarcastic voice and quickly looked up. Good heavens, when did such a large group of people get into the room?
And they were all lined up in front of HaoRan and me. With them standing there, I couldn't even see XiaoYao; she was like a hindrance.
"All of you, get out! No one is allowed to enter without my order." Hao Ran coldly ordered the men, revealing that they weren't there on orders, but rather out of
a desire to protect their master. After receiving Hao Ran's clear instruction, they exchanged glances, wanting to obey, but knowing it would only delay their master's comfort. So they hesitated, unsure
what to do .
"Your Majesty, please..." Old Man Xiahou suddenly spoke up. I'd almost forgotten he existed if he hadn't spoken. I knew he was trying to use his status as
a veteran minister to persuade Hao Ran to reconsider, but Hao Ran showed no mercy.
"Get out! All of you get out! Disobey: behead!" Hao Ran was clearly impatient . Seeing the men leave with Old Man Xiahou, their faces filled
with helplessness, made me very uncomfortable. Hao Ran's cold gaze sent a shiver down my spine. This small incident made me clearly understand what an emperor was like—an unquestionable
emperor .
With everyone gone, the room suddenly felt much more spacious. But the atmosphere was even more tense than before.
"Haoran, that's enough! You're choking me! Let me go!" I felt like Haoran had become a different person. He was terrifying, fierce, and his eyes were cruel. Even the
way he hugged me was so strong, almost like he was strangling me.
"What you just said was true. You really don't care that I have an empress. You really have no feelings for me at all." Haoran lowered his head and stared at me intently, his eyes still cruel,
but the strength in his hands loosened a little.
"Yes, I don't care that you have an empress. As an emperor, having 'three palaces, six courtyards, and seventy-two concubines' is normal. Why should I care? As for my feelings for you, of course I do.
I've always considered you my best friend, someone I can talk to about anything." When I saw Xiaoyao, a strong sense of anticipation filled me. I wanted to go to her and hug her, to find that
warm feeling. I didn't want to explain this to Haoran again and again. I only knew that since he wasn't my destined husband, I shouldn't overthink things. A clean break was
the best way. Because the deeper the feelings, the greater the hurt.
Haoran loosened his grip, and I quickly broke free and ran towards Xiaoyao. When I reached him, Xiaoyao hugged me tightly, almost
suffocating me, but it felt so blissful.
"Dou'er, did I hurt you?" After the initial shock, Xiaoyao loosened his grip, clearly afraid of hurting me. His gentleness and tenderness were completely different from his usual playful self, which moved
me deeply, especially his unique way of addressing me, which made my eyes involuntarily well up with tears. I looked up at his beautiful face and slowly shook my head.
"Let's go," Xiaoyao said, as if to pull me away. I wanted to say yes, but before taking a step, I couldn't bear to look back at Haoran. Haoran
stood there, seemingly stunned, staring at the outstretched hand. It must have been
because . Haoran's behavior worried me greatly.
"Haoran, are you alright?" I asked anxiously in a low voice.
"Is it because I'm not handsome enough? Is appearance really that important? Is love even a standard based on that?" Haoran's voice sounded like he was asking me, or perhaps just
muttering himself. Clearly, he couldn't accept my decision to choose a husband based on appearance.
Chapter 109 The Unexplained Imperial Decree
Looking at Haoran's pained expression, I chose silence. I really wanted to explain to him that I used to be non-superstitious and didn't believe in fate. But
after experiencing so many unbelievable things, I had no choice but to believe. But the words stuck in my throat. My marriage was already destined. I didn't know the process, but I knew the outcome.
Knowing the outcome, I wanted to avoid any entanglements that weren't part of the plan, otherwise, I would only be creating unnecessary pain for everyone. So, I used silence to reject him.
"Let's go." Xiaoyao put his arm around me and prepared to leave.
"They're here." Haoran's voice was particularly ruthless because of his anger. As soon as he spoke, those who had just left rushed back in. It seemed they hadn't
gone far at all.
Xiaoyao and I were forced to stop again. Xiaoyao pulled me closer to his chest, seemingly afraid of hurting me. Xiaoyao's actions made me feel cherished and touched. So I
looked up at him in his arms and gave him a reassuring and happy smile.
"No one is allowed to leave here without my order, or they will be killed without mercy!" When Haoran said 'kill without mercy,' he was as terrifying as those bloodthirsty emperors on TV.
His red-rimmed eyes made me feel a little unfamiliar and a little scared. I couldn't help but shrink closer to Xiaoyao, but Haoran became even angrier because of my fear.
"Arrest them." Haoran had barely finished speaking when he started hitting me before I could even react. I didn't expect that after so long without a fight, they would suddenly
start . They moved so fast!
I hid in Xiaoyao's arms, dodging and weaving under his protection. Although Haoran outnumbered me, he didn't gain the upper hand. But Xiaoyao couldn't win easily either,
since I was still a burden to him. Because it was difficult to determine a winner, the fight remained in a stalemate.
"Ah!
" A scream suddenly rang out. Everyone stopped upon hearing the sound. They all turned to look in the direction of the scream, and I saw the guard who had screamed,
his eyes wide with disbelief, slowly turning to look at Haoran behind him. He clearly wanted to know why he had been treated this way, and looked as if he would
die with
his eyes wide open if he didn't get an answer. I also looked at Haoran with disbelief. Haoran had killed him with a hidden weapon. I didn't understand why, why. This guard was his man, how could he
treat someone who had risked his life for him like this? Wasn't he afraid of losing the morale of the army and chilling the hearts of the other guards?
"Everyone remember, if anyone dares to harm a single hair on this young lady's head, this is their fate." As soon as Haoran spoke, I realized that the guard's death was related to me. I
was a little terrified, hoping that I was wrong. I didn't want to let Bo Ren die because of me, since I hadn't killed him.
I looked up at Xiaoyao, bewildered, hoping he could tell me what had happened. Xiaoyao's answer was to look at the ground, and what I saw
startled me : a sword as thin as a cicada's wing lay at my feet. Did this mean that if Haoran hadn't killed that guard, I would likely be the one dying now?
This fact left me speechless. Should I thank Haoran for saving my life, or beg him to let me go? Neither seemed appropriate.
"Imperial decree has arrived. Long Doudou, receive the decree." Damn, where did this guy come from? This is ridiculous! The emperor is here, and he's saying an imperial decree has arrived? I
looked at a somewhat familiar-looking person who walked in from outside. He looks so familiar; where have I seen him before?
"Miss Long, please receive the decree." Heh, I must say, although the lie wasn't very clever, this eunuch was quite handsome—a typical eunuch. But who is he?
What is he doing here? And why does he look so familiar? I stared intently at him, trying to figure out where I had seen him before.
"Miss Long, do you really not recognize this servant?" Since he said that, it must mean he knows me. How could he know me? In what lifetime have I ever known such
a person? I stared intently at him, and he stared intently back at me. It seemed he was trying to help me remember who he was.
"That's it." Just when I thought I would never remember and was about to give up, I heard the eunuch's prompt. Before I could think of anything
when he said that, I thought for a moment after he finished speaking, and then my gaze fell on his face, which was flushed red from saying those words.
This eunuch was none other than the one I had ridiculed in the palace with Xiaoyao when we were mocking that arrogant eunuch. Heh, that's it! He was
the eunuch I had disciplined.
"Heh, it's you again. It's a pleasure to meet you." I greeted him happily.
"Ahem, um, Miss Long, please accept the imperial decree." The eunuch blushed at my enthusiasm. "
Accept the decree?" Judging from his expression, he didn't seem to be lying. Could it really be an imperial decree? But who would issue an imperial decree to me? Of course, it wouldn't be this emperor in front of me. Heh,
it must be the emperor of 'Shuoyue Kingdom'. I was a little confused. I shouldn't know him well, so why would he issue a decree to me?
This emperor is really quite interesting. I remember Haoran telling me that because of my disappearance, the emperor had conducted a massive search of the palace and even arrested his own concubines. Now,
he's managed to find me in the vast sea of people and even issued me an imperial decree. It's really quite interesting. I wonder what he's up to.
"Miss Long, accept the decree." This little eunuch, who had no lower body, saw that I was just lost in thought and didn't speak, so he couldn't help but remind me.
"Oh, I accept the decree. What does it say?" I snatched the imperial edict from the eunuch's hand, ignoring his surprised look
at , and began to study its contents.
"Miss Long, this servant hasn't read the decree yet," the eunuch reminded me, looking at my face. Hearing this, I understood. Right, in the TV shows
, one eunuch reads the decree, while the recipient and others kneel on the ground.
Chapter 110 Returning to 'Xiaoyao's' Side
I've never understood why, with the emperor so far away, kneeling wouldn't be seen
. "Come here," I beckoned to the 'gone one,' gesturing for him to come over. He pointed to his nose, and after I nodded in affirmation, he
walked to my side, looking puzzled.
"I don't like kowtowing," I whispered in his ear.
"What?!" This guy's voice was too loud! I quickly covered his mouth to prevent him from shouting.
"One hundred taels!" I said directly in his ear, then slowly released his hand.
"But..." He hesitated for a moment, then realized I was trying to bribe him, but clearly he had reservations.
"Two hundred taels!" I didn't believe he didn't like money.
"Ah!" His eyes widened, and he exclaimed in surprise.
"Three hundred taels!" As the saying goes, money makes the world go round. I didn't believe he was harder to bribe than a ghost.
"Ahem, Miss Long." It seemed he was frightened by my actions.
"Five hundred taels! That's it. One shouldn't be too greedy. Xiaoyao..." After saying this to him, I extended my hand to Xiaoyao, who was standing beside me. I was certain he had heard our conversation
. And indeed he had. As soon as I extended my hand, Xiaoyao immediately took out a piece of paper from his pocket and handed it to me. Heh, I didn't need to guess to know it was a silver note.
"Miss Long, listen to me." It seemed he really was difficult to get rid of.
"Here, take it. If you don't cooperate, I won't accept the decree. Let's see how you go back and explain yourself." I was now truly using both threats and inducements, a combination of soft and hard tactics
.
"Ah. Alright. Then thank you for the reward, Miss Long." The little eunuch reluctantly accepted the silver note, then held out his hand to me. I obediently handed him the imperial decree I had snatched. After
receiving started walking forward, until he reached the very center of the room.
I found this scene utterly ridiculous. Imperial decrees were usually read aloud in the main hall or courtyard. But today, it was happening in Haoran's bedroom. It was as
strange .
"Imperial decree issued, Long Doudou receives the decree." Wow, what professional ethics! Just a moment ago, he had a helpless, bitter face. Now, when he spoke,
his expression , making himself look very dignified. He even displayed the grandeur of royalty.
"Ahem." As I stared at him, lost in thought, I saw the little eunuch cough twice, pampering me. I stared at him wide-eyed, not understanding what he meant. He took
my money, winked at me, and then looked at the ground beneath my feet. What's going on? Is he trying to make me kneel? They say, "He who eats another's food is bound to him, he who takes another's money is bound to him." How could he take my money and then make me
kneel ? This is too much! I narrowed my eyes in displeasure.
Just as I decided not to kneel and to see what he would do, I noticed him winking at me frantically, as if he wanted to say something. Things at Nanjing University weren't
as Thinking this, I carefully observed his every expression. I noticed he would look at me, then at the ground, and then give me a pleading look.
Seeing the little eunuch wiping his sweat in anxiety, I finally had a pang of conscience and felt a tiny bit of reluctance. Fine, I'll do as he says and see
what . I nodded at him, indicating: Okay, no problem, I'll cooperate. After seeing my nod, he looked at me happily with his watery eyes, as if he might cry with emotion at any moment
. This made me roll my eyes. His acting was too exaggerated.
"The Emperor decrees, Long Doudou receives the decree." He said this for the third time, and this time I finally responded.
"This commoner receives the decree!" I shouted loudly, like I was performing a theatrical act, and then prepared to prostrate myself on the ground.
"By imperial decree, all those present are distinguished envoys and friends. There's no need for kneeling; simply stand to receive the decree." I almost burst out laughing when I heard this. This guy is too good at making things up. He can actually come up with
such a low-brow statement. How could the Emperor, in the central palace of 'Shuoyue Kingdom,' possibly know about this distant border town? He's not a Taoist priest; he can't
predict who will be in the room when the imperial decree arrives.
"Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty." Whatever his reason, as long as I don't kneel, that's fine. Heh, since he's been so considerate in resolving this matter, I'll loudly express my gratitude
as a return gift. We all help each other, right?
"By imperial decree, Long Doudou is to return to the palace immediately; there is urgent business! So be it." After hearing the imperial decree, I was a bit confused. What was this all about? What kind of imperial decree was this?
"That's it," I looked at him suspiciously. I hoped he would explain himself more clearly; what exactly did he mean?
"That's all, Miss Long, come and receive the decree." Since he had said so, I had no choice but to go over and take the yellow scroll. After taking it, I opened it and read it again, hoping to
see more content. Why did this imperial decree seem so simple? No, it was too simple; it was so simple that it didn't explain anything clearly.
"Miss Long, let's set off quickly." Hearing the little eunuch's call, I opened my eyes in surprise. What do you mean, "just leave"? It's not like we're running for our lives; there's no such thing as leaving so quickly
. But considering the current situation, leaving under this pretext wasn't a bad idea. Even if Haoran was arrogant, he wouldn't easily make enemies with other countries, right?
"Uh, is that so? Then let's go. Lord Xiahou, take good care of Haoran. Haoran, we're leaving now." I turned around to say goodbye to them and took Xiaoyao's hand. As I turned to
leave, I saw Haoran take a step forward and walk towards me. Seeing him like that startled me. I was terrified he might do something terrible.
"Haoran." Seeing Haoran walk up to me made my heart pound. At that moment, Lord Xiahou also came over, grabbing Haoran's wrist, silently stopping him
from doing something he would regret.
"Doudou, take good care of yourself. I'll miss you." Haoran's voice was unusually cheerful, his words light and easy. It was
like , but the smile in his voice didn't reach his eyes. His eyes showed no sign of relief, but rather a predatory desire. This realization made my heart race.
"Haoran, I will always consider you a friend," I said sincerely. These words made his eyes narrow. It seemed he didn't like me saying that.
I don't even know how we left; we just left. Even after leaving, I still couldn't believe Haoran had let me go so easily.
We didn't immediately rush back on horseback, but instead found a nearby inn to rest. We had just settled down to rest when we saw Haoran and his entire team
leave .
They just left, Haoran just left. Seeing them leave, I didn't feel the relief I expected; instead, I felt a deep sense of loss. I had
thought Haoran would miss me, or that he would come back to find me, but the truth was, he left, just like that. He didn't say another word to me.
"Dou'er, what's wrong? You miss him?" Xiaoyao walked to my side, seeing my disappointed expression as I stared at Haoran's convoy.
"Xiaoyao, what's wrong? Why am I sad watching him leave?" I'm not good at lying, and I didn't want to lie to my closest person, so I looked helplessly at
Xiaoyao beside me, hoping he could help me.
"Dou'er, don't be sad. You just miss your good friend." Xiaoyao pulled me into his arms and hugged me, saying comforting words.
Xiaoyao's embrace was warm, making me feel happy. Maybe Xiaoyao was right; I just missed my good friend, and there couldn't be any other reason. But no matter
how I comforted myself, how I lied to myself, only I knew how painful it was inside, and only I knew the truth it reflected. Even so, I
wasn't going to tell anyone, because that would only cause more harm.
"Xiaoyao, I want to leave tomorrow. I want to go find Yu and the others." I felt that too many things had happened recently, making me a little irrational, so I wanted to leave to find Yu
and the others Maybe when I was back with them, everything would return to normal.
"Okay, let's set off first thing tomorrow morning." Xiaoyao hugged me, saying with immense tenderness. His affection for me was so different from how he used to always be at odds with me. I knew he was worried about me, which was why he
was like this. This filled me with gratitude.
"Xiaoyao, you're so good to me." I blinked, putting on a cute expression as I stared at his handsome face.
"What do you want?" Xiaoyao, seeing my disgusting smile, actually put on his clothes as if in self-defense. It was as if I were a bad person trying to bully him. His reaction made me laugh from the bottom of
my heart .
“Xiaoyao, I didn’t mean anything by it. I just don’t want to sleep alone. Will you keep me company?” My words made Xiaoyao take a step back. It was as if I were a plague.
“Don’t get me into trouble. You almost killed me last time at the ‘Qitian Palace’.” Xiaoyao actually shook his head as he spoke, as if I were some kind of pest.
His blatant disregard for my feelings made me very unhappy. While I was trying to figure out how to argue with him, I temporarily put aside the unpleasantness Haoran had left me with.
“Hehe, don’t be like that. You’re my husband, it’s normal to sleep together.” I took a step towards him, ready to hug him, but he dodged me one step faster.
“Don’t get me into trouble. I’m going out now, see you tomorrow.” How could he be so indifferent to my advances? Although I didn’t really want anything to do with him, his
attitude was really hurting my self-esteem. No way, people say, a scholar can be killed but not humiliated. I absolutely cannot allow him to ignore my charm as a woman.
"Xiaoyao, waah, waah." He's a martial arts master; let alone using force, I can't even catch up with him. So, a gentler approach is more appropriate.
As soon as I started crying, Xiaoyao came over. I peeked through my fingers, and wow, the heartache in his eyes was so obvious. When he pulled me into his arms,
I knew I'd used the right method.
"Dou'er, don't cry, I didn't mean anything by it." Xiaoyao was clearly at a loss, unsure what to do. And that was exactly what I wanted. At that moment
, I hugged him tightly. Then, as his eyes widened, I looked up at him and smiled.
"Hehe, who's crying?" I blinked my big eyes and smiled at him. My crying and laughing at the same time made Xiaoyao's eyes widen. He was a little amused and exasperated.
"You," he said, though he only said those two words, but I could see how deep his affection for me was. And the deep affection in his eyes captivated me.
"Xiaoyao," I looked deeply into Xiaoyao's face, then showed a gentle expression. His smiling eyes slowly deepened, and finally, he slowly lowered his head towards me. And I
slowly closed my eyes too.
Chapter 111 The Real and the Illusory Haoran
Rumbling, rumbling, rumbling...
This damn stomach of mine, why did it have to rumble now of all times? It's such a killjoy.
"Dou'er, are you hungry? I'll go prepare some food." What? Xiaoyao wants to leave? How can that be? I haven't even kissed him yet. I have to kiss him first before he leaves. So I grabbed
his arm, stopping him from leaving.
"What's wrong? Are you unhappy again?" Xiaoyao looked down at me, his face full of confusion.
"Of course I'm unhappy." I pouted at him, afraid he wouldn't understand the seriousness of the matter.
"Then why are you unhappy? And what do I have to do to make you happy?" Xiaoyao seemed quite patient. Compared to his composed demeanor, I preferred him when he
was being bullied.
"I'm sexually frustrated. If you stay with me tonight, I'll be happy." Now you all know what it means to say something shocking. As soon as I said that, Xiaoyao's eyes widened
as if 'd seen a ghost. Hehe, I quite like that expression.
"Dou'er, you're a girl." Xiaoyao was clearly at a loss for what to do with me. He wanted to lecture me, but didn't know where to begin. So he said this.
"Of course I know my gender. You don't need to remind me. How about you keep me company tonight?" I said, "No. I'll go get you some food."
Xiaoyao was so rude! He broke free from my arm and ran away. Watching Xiaoyao's fleeing figure, I shrugged in boredom. What? Did he think I was a pervert?
It seems I really scared Xiaoyao today; he didn't even dare to come to my room. He had to have the waiter bring his food. I ate while thinking. What should I do after I'm full
? That's how boring it is in ancient times; there's almost no nightlife. Well, not exactly none, but there's no women's nightlife. Men's nightlife is something modern men can't compare to Xiaoyao's.
I originally planned to go find Xiaoyao to play for a while, but I didn't expect to feel sleepy after eating. So I decided to take the easy way out and just go to sleep. Eating and then sleeping, isn't that no different from being a pig
? " Dou
Dou, Dou Dou." Half-asleep, I felt someone talking to me. I opened my eyes with difficulty and saw a man wearing a mask.
"Hao Ran, didn't you leave?" I called out his name in disbelief.
"Dou Dou, why don't you want to be with me?" Hao Ran's voice sounded so sorrowful, giving me an indescribable heartache.
"Hao Ran, I'm sorry, I really had no choice." He knew everything; he should understand.
"Then how about this, will you be willing to come back to 'Sunset Kingdom' with me?" Hao Ran said, lifting the mask from his face. I had expected to see Hao Ran's scarred
face, but unexpectedly, I saw an astonishingly beautiful face. There were no scars on his face; his skin was perfect, as delicate, white, and smooth as a peeled egg.
I couldn't help but reach out and touch his face, inch by inch. He was so beautiful, it was unfair. How could everyone have such good skin? They were all even whiter than me! " I
've got all this stuff to myself, haha, God's really been kind to me.
" "DouDou, am I the person you're looking for?" I saw Haoran's thin red lips move, and his words made me nod deeply. Yes, absolutely. If anyone said no, I'd
fight them.
"Then come find me." After Haoran finished speaking, before I could react, I saw a mischievous smile appear on his lips, and he vanished through the open window in a flash.
I was so anxious I didn't know what to do.
"Haoran, Haoran!" I sat on the bed and started calling Haoran's name loudly.
"Dou'er, what's wrong? What happened?" Xiaoyao heard my cries and rushed to my bedside, hugging me worriedly and asking questions.
"Xiaoyao, I saw Haoran." I told Xiaoyao urgently.
"Haoran, he's been here." After hearing my words, Xiaoyao looked around the room, but there was no trace of anyone having been there.
"He just flew out the window." I said, pointing to the window. But I was stunned. The window wasn't open; it was tightly shut, as if it had never been opened at all
.
"Dou'er, I think you're dreaming. I've been guarding the door the whole time, and no one has come." Xiaoyao's words silenced me. Was I dreaming? No, it wasn't. The smooth feeling of
his my skin was still almost there. How could it be a dream? I got out of bed and went to the window. Sure enough, it was closed. I pushed it open, and the wind blew in. It was pitch black outside
; there was nothing there. Was I really dreaming?
"Dou'er, don't overthink it. Go to sleep." Xiaoyao's tone and eyes were full of worry.
"Xiaoyao." Hearing that Xiaoyao was leaving, I turned around and looked at him pitifully.
"It's okay, I'll guard the door. Just call me if you need anything." I felt like it was all unfair. How could someone be so kind to me? This really touched me deeply
.
"Stay here with me. I promise I won't take advantage of you." I really wanted him to stay with me.
"Hey, what are you thinking about?" Xiaoyao gave a helpless smile.
"So you agree? Xiaoyao, I knew you were the best." I went over and hugged Xiaoyao, flattering him. He could only look at me with a silly grin.
"Alright, come and lie down in bed and sleep." Xiaoyao beckoned me to go back to bed. I grabbed his hand.
"I'll stay with you." Xiaoyao said helplessly, giving me the result I wanted. After he said that, I finally smiled. Ugh, people would laugh at me if I said that. Usually, it's the men who try
every means to get into a woman's bed, but I went through so much trouble to get Xiaoyao to agree to stay with me.
Xiaoyao and I lay in bed under the same blanket. Logically, we should chat or something, but not saying a word was so boring.
"Xiaoyao, are you asleep?" Since he wouldn't contact me, I had to take the initiative.
"Asleep." Ugh, he clearly didn't want to chat with me. But lying through his teeth was so disrespectful.
"Hey, if you're asleep, why are you talking? I can't sleep, talk to me for a bit." I couldn't stay still any longer, so I turned to my side, propping my chin on my arm and looking at Xiaoyao.
"What is it?" Xiaoyao smiled at me with his beautiful eyes. Wow, he looked so charming. I couldn't help but swallow hard.
"Xiaoyao, I really like you. Do you like me or not?" I was really interested in this topic.
"Dou'er, I..." Xiaoyao looked at me, seemingly embarrassed. He was really disrespectful. I had already said I liked him, and he was still so hesitant.
"You don't like me?" I pouted, dissatisfied.
"No, Dou'er." Xiaoyao looked at me, a little nervous.
"Then you like me. Right?" I smiled, leaning my upper body against him, resting my chin on his chest and looking at him with a smile.
"Yes, I like you." I thought Xiaoyao wouldn't admit it, but he answered so readily. And I could clearly hear his heartbeat. At
that reached out and hugged me. I was so nervous I could hardly breathe. I'm usually just joking, but when I get serious, I don't know what to do.
An ambiguous atmosphere spread. I felt Xiaoyao's eyes growing deeper as he looked at me, and his body temperature rising.
"Dou'er," Xiaoyao softly murmured my name, his voice sending a shiver down my spine. Xiaoyao's hand on my back slowly tightened, drawing me closer and closer.
When there was almost no space between us, he placed a hand on my head, pressing it down.
When Xiaoyao looked up, his lips touched mine, and my heart nearly leaped out of my chest. Xiaoyao's lips were so soft, making me want to get closer, even closer.
"Mmm." The moist, smooth lips, combined with the heat of our bodies rubbing together, made me let out a soft moan. My involuntary moan only
excited . He tightened his grip on me, his body growing even hotter.
It was a suppressed feeling, like a volcano about to erupt. The inner heat made me want to find an outlet.
"Mmm, Xiaoyao." I squirmed uncomfortably against Xiaoyao, hoping to feel better.
"Dou'er, don't move. Please don't move." Xiaoyao's voice made me feel like he was in more pain than I was.
"Xiaoyao, what's wrong?" I thought Xiaoyao was uncomfortable, so I didn't listen to his advice to stay still. Instead, I crawled on top of him, trying to see what was wrong. What I got was
a muffled groan from Xiaoyao, followed by him flipping me over. By the time I realized what was happening, I was already pinned beneath him.
"Dou'er. Do you know what's going to happen next?" Xiaoyao's question left me speechless. Could it be something
like the 'erotic pictures' he'd seen at Xiaotian's? This made my eyes widen in surprise; the picture was terrifying. Thinking of the scene, my hand involuntarily moved towards his groin.
"Mmm!" When I touched the male organ, Xiaoyao let out a groan that sounded both painful and strangely pleasurable.
Xiaoyao's cry made me quickly withdraw my hand. Touching it today made me realize how naive and ridiculous I had been. I was so clueless back then, I didn't even know what it was. Heh
, I even remember asking Xiaoyao to show me that "treasure" before.
"Heh," I thought, finding my past self increasingly laughable.
"You little rascal, what are you laughing at?" Xiaoyao was at a loss for words.
"Heh, do you remember when I said I wanted to see your 'treasure'?" I smiled at Xiaoyao, the ambiguous atmosphere vanishing with my smile.
"How come you know now? How did you know?" Well, now Xiaoyao had lost all desire and suddenly acted like a jealous husband. But then again, he is my husband
after all .
"Tsk tsk tsk, you're really jealous." It turns out watching your husband be jealous is quite enjoyable. Hehe.
"I am jealous, explain yourself first." It seems Xiaoyao is serious this time. If I don't explain, he definitely won't let me off easily today. So I told him about the
erotic Xiaotian's place. After I finished, his expression softened a bit. The jealousy subsided.
Xiaoyao was fine now, but I wouldn't let him off the hook.
"Hehe, how about now? Still jealous?" I couldn't help but tease him.
"I'm not jealous anymore, and I'm fine. But now that you know, do you still want to look?" Xiaoyao isn't one to be trifled with. He always loved to argue with me; how could I
let him off so easily?
"Yes, if you dare to take it off, I dare to look." I proudly raised my chin. I bet he definitely wouldn't dare to take it off.
"If you dare to look, I dare to take it off." Xiaoyao was just as defiant, seemingly convinced I wouldn't dare to look.
"Fine, go ahead and take it off if you dare!" I retorted, not to be outdone.
"If I take it off, do you dare look?" Xiaoyao and I started arguing back and forth, but it was like a game of football, I kicked it back and forth, there was no end in sight. I really
didn't know how to end it.
"Take it off, or I'll help you take it off." I rolled my eyes and pounced on him.
"You wild girl, if you keep moving around, you'll regret it." Xiaoyao was dodging left and right, looking disheveled.
"What can you do to me? If you dare bully me, I'll tell Liuxiang and the others." I watched Xiaoyao make faces, and he gritted his teeth in anger, but there was nothing he could do.
"Alright, stop fooling around, go to sleep. It'll be dawn soon if you don't sleep. We have to travel tomorrow." Xiaoyao saw me yawning and urged me to go to sleep. I looked at the night outside
and it seemed that if I didn't sleep soon, it really would be dawn.
"Okay, hold me while I sleep." After I finished speaking, I hugged Xiaoyao and closed my eyes before he could say anything. I was probably really sleepy, and with Xiaoyao gently patting me like he was soothing a child, I
fell asleep in no time.
Cluck cluck cluck.
This place is interesting; there are actually roosters waking people up in the morning. This kind of natural crowing is more annoying than an alarm clock. When the alarm clock goes off, I can kick it off with one kick
. But this rooster's crowing leaves me helpless. So I had to open my sleepy eyes.
Chapter 112 Accompanying Zilu to 'Sunset Kingdom'
The first thing I did after opening my eyes was to look for Xiaoyao beside me. Where is he? Did he go out again while I was asleep? If so, that would be too humiliating. I put my hand on
the spot where Xiaoyao had slept. Hehe, it was still warm, so he must have just gotten up.
"You're awake but you're not getting up to wash up. What are you grinning about on the bed for?" After the door rang, Xiaoyao came in.
"Wow, you've prepared some delicious food for me! You're so kind, I'm starving!" When I turned to look at Xiaoyao, I immediately saw the basket in his hand. I
jumped off the bed and ran over to snatch the basket without even putting on my shoes.
"Hey, you're such a glutton! Why aren't you even wearing shoes? And you haven't even washed up yet!" Xiaoyao could only shake his head helplessly at my state. Heh, he
couldn't do anything about me.
"Stop nagging! You're turning into a nagging old lady!" I protested as I walked towards the table.
"What? I'm doing this for your own good. Fine, fine, just eat like that. I can't be bothered with you, you disgusting little devil, you dirty child. I'll go back and tell everyone, see who dares to want you then." Xiaoyao took my
shoes, and although he said harsh words, he was quite gentle in putting them on me. Heh, I knew he was a hypocrite; he wouldn't abandon me
.
"Yes, if no one wants me, then you'll just have to accept it. Heh, eat well, Ah Li, you eat too." While teasing Xiaoyao, I naturally
stuffed some delicious food into my own mouth.
"I haven't washed my hands yet." Xiaoyao sniffed his hands, making a disgusted face as if he wanted to vomit.
"Damn, that's an exaggeration. I just washed my feet yesterday, are they really that smelly?" Seeing Xiaoyao's reaction was really unbearable. I quickly lowered my head, stretched out a hand to take off my
shoes and smell them to see if they really smelled bad.
"Hehe, okay, just kidding, you actually took it seriously?" Xiaoyao quickly stopped my childish behavior and laughed unrestrainedly.
"Hmph, still so mean, I've already eaten, I won't give you a single bite, I'll let you starve to death." I pretended to be very angry and frantically stuffed food into my mouth. It was as if the food
had a grudge .
"Be careful not to overeat, let me eat some for you." Xiaoyao actually reached out his dirty hand to snatch my food like a child.
"No way." I quickly protected him and prevented him from succeeding.
We finished breakfast in such a lively manner. After breakfast, the question of setting off came up. I had wanted to go back for a long time, but the seemingly real and unreal Haoran from last night made
me a little hesitant. What should I do? If Haoran really is my husband, and I miss this chance, when will we ever see each other again? But even if he's not my husband, I can't let this
uncertainty .
Right now, I have a strong desire to see Haoran again. If I don't figure this out, I'll be restless and unable to sleep. What
kind of face does he have? Is he really my husband? I need to see him clearly and understand the truth before I can live my life properly.
"Dou'er, what's wrong? We should go." Xiaoyao urged me again, but I really didn't want to leave. But what could I do? What reason did I have to stay? Besides,
there was the Emperor's decree; how could I disobey it?
"Reporting to the Chief Eunuch, there's a woman outside who specifically requests to see the Empress." I had just stepped out of the room with Xiaoyao when I saw a little eunuch reporting to the 'gone' eunuch that someone was looking for me.
And it was a girl! Who could it be?
"What's all the fuss about? Just say she's already returned to the palace." Damn it, this guy is so despicable; he's lying through his teeth.
"Hey, who's already returned to the palace?" I can't stand people who act on their own initiative; it's so disrespectful. It's often these self-righteous individuals who cause all the trouble
.
"Good morning, Miss Long. Why are you up so early?" The guy greeted me, but his eyes were subtly gesturing for the little eunuch to leave. It seems I've seen through him; he still doesn't
intend for me to receive guests. This behavior infuriates me; it's incredibly disrespectful.
"Stop right there! Bring that woman to see me." Fine, so you like playing games and being insincere? I won't play along. I'll be blunt and see if he dares to openly disrespect me.
"
This…" The little eunuch looked at his superior with a troubled expression, unsure what to do. Actually, I know it's difficult for people like them; their status is low, and they
can't afford .
"What's wrong? Does the head eunuch have any objections?" I didn't want to make things difficult for the lower-ranking eunuch; I went straight to the one who was opposing me. However, when did he become the head eunuch? Or was
it something I just didn't know about before? But these are minor matters. The important thing is, what kind of woman will come to see me?
"Oh dear, what are you saying, Miss Long? How could this servant have any objection? Miss Long asked you to go and fetch the guests, and you're just standing there like an idiot, staring at me like that! Hurry up and go!"
This little villain's acting is truly perfect. "
Yes, this servant will go right away." After saying that, the little guy took off running, as if disaster would strike if he was a second late.
I really couldn't stand this head eunuch looking at me with that hypocritical expression. It made me feel uncomfortable from the inside out. So when the little guy brought the guests, I quickly sent
him away. Hehe, it wasn't because I had any secret that I was afraid they would hear, but because I was afraid it would be bad for Zi Luo's health. Looking at that face, the chances of her having a miscarriage were very high.
"Zi Luo, what are you doing here? Didn't Bei Gongzheng find you?" After they all left, leaving only me, Xiao Yao, and Zi Luo, I rushed over and hugged her to greet
her.
"Miss Long, I really had no other choice but to come to you." Zi Luo looked so pitiful. I think any man would be moved by her.
Zi Luo told me about her relationship with Bei Gong Zheng. I knew it! Bei Gong Zheng just doesn't know how to talk, or rather, all men don't understand what women want to hear.
He's got no problem with words. Sure enough, after Bei Gong Zheng found out Zi Luo was pregnant, he said a bunch of things about taking responsibility. But Zi Luo, being strong-willed and not wanting to be pitied, left
him after a passionate night.
Heh, he was pretty much right. Looks like I have a talent for screenwriting.
"Is there anything I can help with?" She said she had no other choice but to come to me, so I figured she needed my help. I actually quite liked
Zi Luo, who was so devoted to love, so if I could help, I would definitely go to great lengths.
"It's like this, I wanted to tell you. The Second Prince really likes you. Don't leave him. If you leave like this, he'll be heartbroken." Before Zi Luo could finish speaking, I
couldn't help roll my eyes. It's unbearable! What time is it? How can she still be so foolish, still thinking about Beigong Zheng? Doesn't she even realize her own situation?
"Ziluo, you haven't eaten yet, have you? Come on in, let's sit down and have something to eat, then we can chat. Don't say 'no need' or anything like that. If you don't eat, the little one in your belly ca
n't go hungry." I pulled Zilu into the house without giving her a chance to refuse
. "Dou'er, we should get going." Oh well, how could I forget about Xiaoyao? But even if I temporarily forgot about him, he didn't need to look so unhappy. Judging from his expression,
hehe , could he be jealous? He must be very sensitive to what Zilu said, that's why he's acting like this.
"What's the rush? Can't you see I'm busy right now? Wait for me a bit." After I finished speaking, I pulled Zilu into the house. Then we sat down at the dining table.
"Here, you eat something first, I'll have Xiaoyao prepare some more." I had almost finished everything on the table. Zilu was eating for two people now, how could that be enough?
"Well, these things are all cold now.
" "No need, I'm not hungry, really not hungry." Zi Luo was clearly very reserved and polite.
*Gurgle gurgle gurgle gurgle*
Upon hearing this sound, Zi Luo's face instantly turned bright red. Hehe, because this time it wasn't me making that sound, but this usually elegant beauty, *thump thump thump thump*, it was Zi Luo
.
"Alright, don't be so polite, the baby in your belly is more important." I'm quite considerate, aren't I? I didn't even laugh at her. But let me tell you a secret, it's not that I'm well-mannered, it's just that I
know a saying—"Do not do to others what you would not have them do to you." I don't like being laughed at, so I think Zi Luo probably doesn't either.
After Zi Luo ate a little, we started talking about serious matters. When I told Zi Luo that Bei Gong Zheng already knew his true feelings, that the person he loved was her, Zi Luo
absolutely refused to believe it. This was really worrying.
"It's true, why would I lie to you? If you don't believe me, I can swear." I raised my hand like a Boy Scout, looking like I was really going to swear.
"You, you're telling the truth, he really likes me?" It seems people in ancient times were quite susceptible to this. I was just putting on an act; I hadn't even really sworn an oath yet, and she already seemed nine-tenths convinced
. Judging from this, if I just put in a little more effort, their happy life together wouldn't be far off.
"Yes, I swear on my honor, he really likes you. And he's already gone to look for you, but he's just a little clumsy and hasn't found you yet." I was stating an obvious fact. Bei Gongzheng
couldn't have found Zi Luo; if he had, he wouldn't be here. A dignified Second Prince; unable to even find a living person, calling him clumsy is
n't an exaggeration at all.
"You mean, he went to look for me?" Zi Luo looked at me with sparkling eyes, filled with excitement, happiness, and disbelief. But there was also a hint of annoyance and regret.
"Yes, he went to look for you." I answered her with certainty. It seemed they had missed each other again.
"I thought he was coming to see you, so what do I do now? What should I do?" Knowing the truth, Zi Luo was at a loss, unsure what to do. She had lost her usual
elegance and composure.
"What? Go see him?" Asking such a stupid question! I'm even more convinced now that people in love aren't smart. This is what people mean when they say high emotional intelligence
but low IQ.
"But, what should I say when I see him? Will he be angry with me? Will he not want to see me? Will he…?
" Ugh, people in love! "Please, miss, have mercy on me. Why so many 'will he's going to be angry? If you keep guessing like this, I'll start worrying
. Will you drive me crazy with your nagging?" I pleaded helplessly, my head throbbing.
"Ah, yes, I'm sorry." Hearing my protest, Zi Luo quickly lowered her head, looking pitiful. Anyone who didn't know better would think I was bullying her
.
"Zi Luo, it's not what you think. What I mean is, go see him! You'll know everything when you see him." I told her my true thoughts.
“Go find him,” Zi Luo was clearly considering whether it was a good idea. Her tone held a mix of excitement and worry.
“Yes, go find him. It’s better than you guessing here, right?” People say, “Better to tear down ten temples than break up one marriage.” Of course, I wanted to help her and do a good
deed.
“Miss Long, I…” Zi Luo seemed to have something she couldn’t say.
“Zi Luo, it’s only been a short while and you’ve already forgotten my name?” She had finally changed from calling me “Miss Long” to “Dou Dou.” But how come she’d
reverted to it ?
“Dou Dou.” Zi Luo wasn’t stupid, so she called me by my name with a smile. I knew that after her smile, things would be much easier to discuss.
“Since you called me by my name, you consider me a friend. Friends should be honest with each other, so feel free to say anything.” I looked at her with a bold and forthright expression, displaying a heroic spirit
.
"I... I want you to come with me to find him." Damn, so it turns out he's just shy and needs someone to give him courage. I thought it was something serious. It's just going with him,
a piece of cake.
"No problem, I'll go with you right now. He should be at the inn he's staying at now, let's go." I'm the type to act on impulse; I just agreed to Zi Luo's request, and now I'm ready to
leave . I only know that I can leave anytime, I didn't even consider whether she was prepared.
"Dou Dou, I'm a little scared." Zi Luo's voice did sound a little trembling, she seemed very nervous.
"What's there to be afraid of? He's not going to eat you. Let's go." I said, and without giving her a chance, I pulled her away.
"Dou'er, have you forgotten we're setting off today?" Xiao Yao obviously knew that if he didn't remind me, I would really leave, so he reminded me clearly, his voice so loud, as if I were hard
of hearing and wouldn't hear him.
"Oh, I know. Come on, come on, come with us. After we hand Zilu over to Beigong Zheng, we'll be right back, okay? Hurry, very quickly!"
I dragged Xiaoyao along too. Heaven knows how long that "very quickly" actually was.
When we arrived at the inn where we used to stay, we found that not only Haoran and the others had left, but Beigong Zheng had also left early that morning to return to Rixi Kingdom. This left us
completely at a loss. I wanted to help him, but it seemed a bit too far away. I had to go back to the palace; I couldn't go back to Rixi Kingdom with her.
"Ziluo, what should we do? Should we chase after him?" I thought that if she wanted to, I would find her a carriage and help her set off as soon as possible.
"No need. It seems we're truly destined to be apart. Given my current situation, even if I chase after him now, I definitely won't catch up. Besides, it seems he wasn't that
deeply . If he were, he wouldn't have given up looking for me so quickly. Oh well, it's all over now. It proves that I was the only one deluding myself from beginning to end." Zi Luo's voice was filled with
sadness, showing disappointment and heartache. That's right, the greater the expectation, the greater the disappointment.
I was also very dissatisfied with Bei Gongzheng's actions. He clearly said he had come to terms with his feelings, so why did he leave after only a short while? That's so lacking in perseverance, isn't it
? I must ask Bei Gongzheng myself what he's thinking. Thinking of this, I put my hands on my hips, straightened my back, and announced my final decision: "I'll go with you to '
Sunset Kingdom' to find him."
"Dou Dou!"
"Dou'er."
Zi Luo and Xiao Yao both called out my name at the same time, but compared to Zi Luo's surprise and joy, Xiao Yao's voice sounded helpless; he even slapped his forehead. He had this
"I knew this would happen" look on his face. He acted like I was some kind of troublesome person. I'm just being righteous and helpful, okay?
"Stop yelling, it's decided. Go find the carriage quickly. If you don't want to come with us, we'll go by ourselves." I actually knew Xiaoyao wouldn't abandon me.
"I don't care, that's why I said that. To be honest, if he didn't come with us, I really wouldn't dare go, haha.
" "Sigh. I'll go find a carriage and prepare some provisions. You guys stay here and wait, don't wander off." What could Xiaoyao and Dong do with me, this little jinx? They could only go find a carriage. They couldn't really
just abandon me, could they
? "Xiaoyao, I knew you were the best. Haha." As the saying goes, flattery never fails. Xiaoyao was already having a headache seeing me like this.
If I didn't give him some mental entertainment, what if he really got annoyed and just left? Wouldn't I be in big trouble then?
"Dou'er, you're such a troublesome little devil." After saying that, Xiaoyao affectionately pinched my nose before going out to find a carriage.
I looked at Xiaoyao's back and started thinking, he really has a lot of adjectives for me. Even "little fool," "little rascal," and "little devil." I pouted in dissatisfaction. Doesn't he
have a single nice adjective for me?
"He's so good to you, you're so lucky!" I looked at Zi Luo as if she were a ghost. No wonder Zi Luo likes Bei Gongzheng; I think it's not just a matter of taste, but also
a bit of a masochistic tendency. I nodded, increasingly convinced.
"Dou Dou, what's wrong?" Zi Luo asked, a little uncomfortable with my strange stare.
"Nothing, everything's fine." I could only laugh it off; only a fool would dare to tell the truth.
"What's fine?" Zi Luo seemed genuinely intrigued, looking like she was ready to pry.
"Everything's fine, the weather's fine, my mood's fine, listen carefully, I'm fine, everyone's fine. Hehe, hehe." I was sweating profusely as I spoke, sweating by the end
.
That's why I say, you can't have bad intentions towards people. Look at me! I was clearly thinking bad things about her, and now, after explaining myself
like .
"Hehe, Dou Dou, you're so cute." Zi Luo couldn't help but laugh at my clown-like antics. Her smile was so beautiful. I was practically
speechless. Beautiful, truly beautiful. Now I know what "a smile that could topple a city, a second smile that could topple a nation" means. Seeing Zi Luo's relaxed and charming smile, I suddenly thought, I don't have the beauty to
topple cities and nations, but to see such a smile even as a clown is a bonus.
"Cute Dou Dou? What's cute about her?" Why did Xiao Yao have to come back now of all times? It would be good to be laughed at by this beauty, Zi Luo, but I
don't to give that rascal Xiao Yao another chance to make fun of me.
"Hehe, Xiao Yao, you're back. Are you all ready? Let's go." I said, pushing Xiao Yao, who had just come in and hadn't even settled in yet, out the door. I was afraid he'd bring up something cute or not once he
was steady .
"I can walk by myself, no need to push me like this. I haven't even asked Miss Zilu yet what makes you so cute, that you all laugh so happily." That lazybones, I knew he
wouldn't easily give up any opportunity to tease me, but this time I absolutely
couldn't let him watch the show. So I pushed him away with all my might. "This is a girls' topic, why are you getting involved? Hurry up, hurry up, we're in a hurry." I acted very anxious, and
when , I was drawn to her expression.
Zilu was behind us, her eyes filled with a deep smile. Her smile was full of blessings and envy. Seeing Zilu's expression, I felt a
strange feeling. I felt that such a wonderful woman deserved happiness. I told myself I must do my best to make them a couple.
Chapter 113 Learning 'Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils'
Wow! Wow! Wow!
Don't doubt it, these embarrassing sounds all came from my mouth. However, I didn't feel ashamed at all; it was Xiaoyao and Zilu who thought so, especially Xiaoyao, who actually covered his face with his hands,
pretending not to know me. But, with such beautiful weather, I couldn't care less about him. Enjoying the scenery was much better than looking at him.
"Dou Dou, keep your voice down, people are looking at you." Zilu quietly tugged at my sleeve, reminding me of everyone's stares. What did I do? I was just admiring the beautiful scenery,
was it really that eye-catching?
"Oh, they're not looking at me." I smiled at Zilu.
"If they're not looking at you, then who are they looking at?" Zilu was indeed innocently cute; compared to her, I felt like a little devil.
"Hehe, of course they're looking at you, the great beauty." I said, and then, like a lecherous wolf, I touched Zilu's chin with my finger. As a result, Zilu's eyes widened in fright, and her face
turned bright red. This made me, who had successfully played a prank, laugh out loud. As a result, Zi Luo glared at me with her beautiful eyes, but there was no disgust or anger in them, only
a faint liking. It seemed Zi Luo had a good feeling about me, and this little discovery made me laugh even louder.
"Dou'er, you wild girl, stop teasing her!" Xiao Yao came to my rescue at this moment.
"Hmph, are you kidding me? I'm your wife! You're openly siding with another woman in front of me, don't you have any conscience? Waaah, waaah!" My acting was so
fake, even I thought it was terrible.
"Dou Dou, don't cry, it's not like that, there's really nothing between me and Young Master Xiao Yao, please don't misunderstand." See? My acting was bad, but I couldn't compare to
the naivety . And Zi Luo fell for it.
"I was still covering my face with my sleeve, sobbing. It looked like I was crying, but heaven knows I was almost laughing myself to death. People in ancient times were so innocent and adorable.
My snickering wasn't a problem, but it worried Zi Luo terribly. Seeing me so 'heartbroken,' she was flustered and didn't know what to do.
'Young Master Xiaoyao, please comfort Dou Dou! Look how heartbroken she is!' Having no other options, Zi Luo turned to Xiaoyao, her tone even carrying
a hint of dissatisfaction.
'Dou'er, be careful, don't laugh yourself to death.' That damn Xiaoyao, he has no respect for me at all! Doesn't he know what it means to be a good wife? I'm so excited, and
he not only doesn't cooperate, but he also ruins things! He's so annoying!
'Ah. Dou Dou, you…' Zi Luo looked at me in surprise after hearing Xiaoyao's words.
'Hehe, it was just a joke, just kidding.'" "Now I had no choice but to lower my arms and reveal my hidden face. The result, of course, was the same as everyone knows:
a broad smile, not a trace of tears.
'Dou Dou, you, you're so naughty.' I thought Zi Luo would be angry, but she only said that, and it seemed she wasn't angry at all, but rather quite liked
me . Heh, it seems that people with good manners and depth are different. Seeing Zi Luo like this, I liked her even more from the bottom of my heart. This gave me an idea."
"Zi Luo, you're so kind! How about we become sworn siblings?" As far as I know, in ancient times, a way to express affection was through sworn siblings.
"Ah!" When I saw Zi Luo's mouth widen, I felt a little disappointed. Right, such a beautiful woman, why would she want to become sworn siblings with me?
"Hehe, it's okay if you don't want to." I waved my hand with a seemingly indifferent smile. But I couldn't hide the slight sadness in my heart.
"No, Dou Dou, I'm willing, of course I'm willing. But are you really willing to become sworn siblings with me? I'm just a servant. You really don't look down on me?" Hearing Zi Luo
's words, I really didn't know whether to be happy or unhappy. I was happy that she was willing to become sworn siblings with me, but I was very unhappy that she looked down on me like that.
"Zi Luo, listen to me. You're wonderful. You're so gentle, so beautiful, so kind. You're the best woman in the world. So don't ever say you're not good enough.
I don't like hearing that. You need to know you're no less than anyone else. You deserve everything, and you deserve the best." I held Zi Luo's hand,
looking at her with firm and sincere eyes.
"Dou Dou." Zi Luo squeezed my hand, her eyes sparkling with emotion.
"That's great! Since you two have become sisters, I'll treat you to a celebration." Xiao Yao, the bystander, hadn't wasted her time watching the show; she knew to spend a little money on a
treat , which made me very satisfied.
"Zi Luo, no matter who's older or younger, I'll call you 'older sister' from now on." Hehe, I love being the younger one. "
Why?" Zi Luo was curious about my explanation.
"Why? Well, well, right, because of a TV series I really like." I racked my brains for a while before finally coming up with a good reason.
"What TV series?" This time it was Xiao Yao who asked curiously. It seems curiosity is truly one of the common traits of all people throughout history.
"TV series is what I call 'TV series' in my hometown; here it just means 'story'." Since they wouldn't understand what I meant anyway, I just opened my mouth and made
up whatever came to mind. Hehe, no matter how much I rambled on, no one could see through me. This reminded me of when I was in school. Whenever someone asked me to sing for them, I would first
say the song title and ask if they had heard it before. If they said yes, I would change to another song until they said no. Why? Hehe, to sing songs they hadn't heard before
, so even if I sang off-key, they wouldn't know.
"Oh, I see. What kind of story is it?" Zi Luo was really naive, believing everything I said without a second thought. Xiao Yao was different; the way he stared at me
seemed to suspect something. I looked up at Xiao Yao smugly. My expression was incredibly irritating. "I'm just making things up, so what? Can you expose me?
" "The name of this story is 'Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils'," I said seriously.
"What kind of story is 'Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils'? What does it have to do with you?" It seems Zi Luo is really happy to be with me. Not only has she become more cheerful, but she's also
become much more lively.
Chapter 114 The Next 'Appearance'
Talking about 'Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils', I've read it countless times. So telling the story is a piece of cake for me. I talked about the heroic Xiao Feng, the simple and kind Xu Zhu, and finally the charming
Duan Yu . I was talking animatedly, spitting out words. And Zi Luo was completely engrossed.
*Gurgle gurgle gurgle*
"Oh dear, I'm hungry. Xiao Yao, let's find a place to eat and rest." Luckily, my stomach stopped me, otherwise I don't know how long we would have talked.
"Okay. Let's go to that place up ahead." Xiao Yao immediately said understandingly.
"Dou'er, and then what?" Hehe, Zi Luo was completely captivated by the story.
Faced with Zi Luo's eager expression, I smiled faintly and slowly uttered, "To find out what happens next, please listen to the next chapter."
"Is that so?" Although Zi Luo didn't insist anymore, her eyes were filled with deep disappointment.
"Hehe, after we've eaten and drunk our fill, I'll tell you slowly." That was the only way I could comfort her. Such a wonderful and incredibly long story, even if I wanted to
be concise , I couldn't possibly finish it all in one go. So I could only take it slow, telling it little by little.
"Okay." Zi Luo nodded, seemingly accepting my suggestion.
"Dou'er, what does this story have to do with your liking to be a concubine?" Xiao Yao was really different; he brought up a question I thought they had forgotten with just one sentence.
"Hehe, because I like Duan Yu's constant romantic encounters." My answer made Xiao Yao narrow his eyes in anger.
"Zi Luo, hurry up, I'm starving!" Seeing the situation was getting out of hand, I quickly grabbed Zi Luo's hand and rushed into the inn ahead. It wouldn't be good if Xiao Yao lost his temper. What did my teacher teach me when I was little
? "Take it one step at a time." I know that, but who would have
thought something bumped into me and I landed on my bottom.
"Who the hell is so blind?" I rubbed my bottom while craning my neck to see who was so inconsiderate.
Hmm, a handsome guy! And a really, really handsome one. Hehe, okay, okay, okay.
"DouDou, are you alright?" ZiLuo's voice rang in my ears. I turned around and looked over. Hehe, yeah, we were both bumped into. I shook my head to indicate
I was fine.
"ZiLuo, are you alright? Are you feeling okay?" XiaoYao is such a jerk. His wife fell down, and instead of asking if I was alright, he's
concerned about another woman. This is unbearable!
"Hey, XiaoYao, are you kidding me? I'm your wife, okay?" I jumped up and roared at him. In this outburst, I completely forgot that there was a handsome guy who might be my
husband.
I wasn't actually jealous, I just wanted to remind Xiaoyao that he was completely ignoring me. I thought that saying that would elicit a look of guilt or apology from him
, but he completely ignored me, not even glancing at me.
Then Xiaoyao bent down and helped Zilu, who was squatting on the ground, to her feet. His movements were so gentle, as if Zilu were a fragile glass treasure. Coupled with his tender and considerate words,
I was completely stunned.
"Miss Zilu, please get up quickly, the ground is cold, it's not good for your health." Oh no, could Xiaoyao really have fallen for someone else, and it's my newly adopted sister no less! Please,
please don't! But this situation is so strangely ambiguous.
"Let's go!" A faint voice whispered in my ear. Let's go? I'm not going anywhere! I have to hold onto Xiaoyao first. All my husbands are mine,
I absolutely cannot abandon any of them.
"DouDou, are you alright?" If ZiLuo hadn't shaken me awake, I don't know how long I would have been lost in thought.
"I...I'm busy." I'm not one to lie to myself, but I can lie to others.
"What's wrong, Dou'er? Are you feeling unwell?" Xiaoyao, who had completely ignored me, only showed concern after I said I was busy.
"So you still remember I exist?" Although I wouldn't admit it, I couldn't deny that my tone was incredibly sarcastic.
"Dou'er, it's not what you think. Young Master Xiaoyao meant well, he was worried about the baby in my belly and accidentally bumped it." Oh my god, I almost forgot about
Zilu's pregnancy.
"Ziluo, are you alright? Did you fall anywhere? Is the baby okay?" I quickly looked Zilu up and down. I'm so brainless, only thinking about myself.
How could I forget that Zilu is in a special period where she can't afford any accidents?
"Good sister, I'm fine. Hehe, it seems you misunderstood me." Zilu smiled happily at my anxious look.
After Zilu's reminder, I also realized that my yelling at Xiaoyao just now was quite impolite. What should I do? Will he be angry? I peeked
up at Xiaoyao, only to see him all smiles. He wasn't angry at all, and seemed to be overjoyed.
"Smile, what are you laughing at?" Honestly, he wasn't angry at all. I was so worried.
"Hehe, just happy. Let's go inside. You need to hold Zilu steady this time, don't be so clumsy." What?! This damn Xiaoyao dared to say that to me. That's too
much !
"Hey!" I was about to protest when I saw Xiaoyao walk confidently into the shop. Humph, ignoring me again. I'll remember this, I'll settle the score with him later.
"Ziluo, don't listen to Xiaoyao's nonsense. I'll take good care of you. Don't worry. Also, this time it wasn't me who was clumsy, it was the guy who bumped into us
. Luckily you're alright, if anything had happened, I would have beaten him to death." I helped Zilu into the shop while shifting blame. However, I
feel like I've overlooked something very important. What is it?
"Such a handsome face, how could you do that?" Bingguo! Zilu's words struck me like an electric shock, and suddenly I understood. It's him, the handsome guy! My husband
!
"Doudou, what's wrong?" Zilu obviously didn't understand why I was so startled.
"That handsome guy is the one who bumped into us just now." I looked around for a long time but couldn't see the person I wanted to see. So I could only stare intently at Zilu,
hoping she would know.
"Ah, Doudou, I'm fine, let it go." Oh my god, Zilu thought I was looking for him to beat him up! If I could find him, I would cherish him from now on.
"Ziluo, I need to see him, it's very important. Where is he? Have you seen him?" I really didn't want to miss it. "
He left a long time ago. That's strange, what could be so important on our first meeting?" When did Zilu become so curious? I wanted to explain to her, but time
didn't allow it. If I let him go this time, I don't know when I'll see him again.
"Where did he go?" Zilu, Zilu, can't you tell me why I'm in such a hurry? If you can, just tell me all at once. Don't make me ask like this, it'll kill you.
"Oh, he went in the direction of our 'Sunset Kingdom'." I looked in the direction Zilu was pointing, my face full of expectation, but when I saw that there wasn't even a
ghost I knew I had missed him. The disappointment was like winning five million dollars, being so happy I was almost going crazy, only to find out when I went to claim the prize that I bought the last
lottery ticket.
"Ladies, please come in. The young master who accompanied you has already ordered food and wine and is waiting for you." Just as I was thinking about whether I could catch
him waiter came out and beckoned us to come in.
Glug glug glug glug
This useless thing, even at a time like this he's still thinking about food. But, oh well, the world is vast, but my stomach is the biggest. "Let 's talk about everything after we've eaten." With that thought, I helped Zilu
into the room to find Xiaoyao. Sure enough, the food had already been ordered. I went over and, without saying a word, devoured everything on the table. After we were full, we went back to our room to rest.
"Dou'er, I'll stay next door," Xiaoyao said before going inside. Zilu was left with me.
"Ziluo, let me make your bed. You're pregnant now. Make sure you get enough sleep." I said as I made the bed for Zilu.
"Doudou, aren't you sleeping here?" Zilu's tone made it sound like I was going to sleep there.
"I do want to sleep with you, but I don't sleep very well. I might roll over on you. I'll go sleep with Xiaoyao." Xiaoyao told me he was sleeping next door, which probably meant I
should go see him later.
"Dou'er, are you and Young Master Xiaoyao really husband and wife?" Zilu's tone was full of doubt, and she seemed to have been troubled by this question for a long time.
"What's wrong? Doesn't it look like we're husband and wife? Of course we're, the kind destined in the marriage register. The bed's made, go wash up and go to sleep early. Just call us if you need anything.
" I clapped my hands, quite satisfied with my handiwork, and prepared to leave. But unexpectedly, Zi Luo stopped me.
"Dou Dou!" Her voice was hesitant, as if she was having trouble saying it.
"What's wrong? Just say it, it's okay." I don't like being interrupted halfway through a conversation, or starting something and then stopping, because then I won't be able to sleep.
"I, I want to hear the whole story." Oh my god, what did I think it was? Turns out she wants to hear 'Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils'. But Zi Luo said she wants to hear the whole thing, that's a bit difficult. You
know, this isn't just any long story, it's an extremely long one. If I really have to hear the whole thing, I probably won't be able to sleep tonight.
"Zi Luo, this story is very long. How about you tell me whose story you want to hear first, and I'll tell you the ending first?" I could only try to get by like that now. I'm lazy, what can I do?
"I want to know, since Wang Yuyan loved her cousin so deeply, did they end up together?" Zi Luo's question really surprised me. I thought she would ask me who
Duan Yu ended up with, or something else; I never expected this question.
Looking at Zi Luo's expectant eyes, I really didn't know how to answer her. I knew she wasn't just asking a simple question; it also reflected her uncertainty about her future with Bei Gongzheng.
She probably wanted to know if her deep affection for Bei Gongzheng would be reciprocated. I wanted to make her happy, but I didn't want to lie to her. For a moment, I didn't know what to do.
"They didn't end up together, right?" My hesitation allowed Zi Luo to guess the answer. Sure enough, this answer touched her deeply, and her tone was clearly sad. "
Zi Luo, the story isn't over yet. You don't know, but Duan Yu fell in love with Wang Yuyan the moment he met her. Just like your love for Bei Gongzheng, he was persistent. No matter how much Wang Yuyan..."
She had no eyes for anyone else but her cousin, and he never gave up on loving her. Finally, his sincerity moved Miss Wang, and they became a couple. "Just like you, isn't it?
Isn't Beigong Zheng moved too?" I rattled off a whole bunch of things. My goodness, I said it all in one breath, without even taking a breath. I really admire myself;
when did my eloquence become so good? Hehe, a little self-indulgence.
"Thank you, Dou Dou." Zi Luo looked at me with satisfaction and gratitude.
"Don't overthink it, go to sleep early." I looked at Zi Luo with comforting eyes. Zi Luo smiled and nodded at me. I smiled back at her, then left the room and went next door to find Xiao Yao
.
With a creak, I opened the door.
"Dou'er, knock before you come in." Xiao Yao's voice came from behind the screen.
"I knocked, you were just too focused on something and didn't hear me. I can knock twice more." "After I finished speaking, I knocked on the door twice. Then I said
, 'Is this okay?' After I finished speaking, I prepared to walk behind the screen.
'Dou'er, don't come over, I'm taking a bath.' Well, now I have nothing to do. He just said he was taking a bath. If I rushed over, it would seem a bit too lewd.
'Oh, then take your time.' I had no choice but to sit on the bed alone. Seriously, this Xiaoyao is too smart. If he hadn't said it outright, I could have pretended not to know
and tried to get a glimpse. But now that he's made it so obvious, there's nothing to do.
'Are you done?' I sat on the bed, staring at the screen, feeling bored. I really wished I had X-ray vision.
'Mmm, it feels so good. I want to soak a little longer.' Damn Xiaoyao, still soaking? How long are you going to soak? Hurry up and come out. Doesn't he know I'm starting to have voyeuristic thoughts?' I pouted in
dissatisfaction .
'Dou'er.'" A few minutes later, Xiaoyao finally had a change of heart and spoke to me.
"What? Are you done washing?" I immediately replied happily.
"No. I was just saying, don't peek, okay?" What a nasty guy! Who does he think he is? Although I did have that thought, it was just a thought, okay?
For a grown man to say that is just so disrespectful.
"Don't worry, I won't." "I spoke softly, but my eyes were darting around. Why? Heh, I was thinking of a way to teach this guy a lesson. Right,
I looked at the clothes draped over the screen and a devilish smile crept across my face. Heh heh, so you're afraid I'll peek? Fine, I won't this time. Let everyone see for free. I checked
the distance between myself and the screen, then the distance between the screen and the doorway. Once I had a better idea, a wicked smile crept onto my lips.
'Dou'er, are you alright?' Xiaoyao must have sensed something was wrong. I had to keep him calm and not let him suspect anything. If he got suspicious and put on his clothes and came out
, then we'd be in trouble.
'What could possibly be wrong with me? Don't worry. Who would want to look at you for no reason? You look like a snarky dog with your clothes on, but who knows if you'd scare people to death if you took them off?'" "My words
were blunt, haha, but nobody seems to have more authority to say whether he's worth seeing with his clothes off than me; I saw it with my own eyes. However, this isn't a 'Tell the Truth
' program, so lying through my teeth isn't out of the question.
Haha, this Xiaoyao's got issues; I'm framing him like this, and he's still laughing. It seems Xiaoyao can be impulsive at times, but also quite mature, like now.
But, hehe, I wonder if he'll be able to face the crowd so calmly when he's naked later.
" "Xiaoyao, do you think Zilu will have a girl or a boy?" I asked, posing this seemingly random question, while slowly moving towards Xiaoyao.
"Boy or girl? I'm not Zhang Tianshi, how would I know?" "Xiaoyao's tone was full of laughter, clearly unaware of my approach.
'Zhang Tianshi is the national advisor of the 'Shuoyue Kingdom,' right? Is he very powerful?' He must be the person I met at Yu's place when I fell from the sky.
'Yes, it's said he knows everything. But unfortunately, he's no longer the national advisor.' Xiaoyao chatted with me casually, completely unaware of the huge prank hidden
behind .
'Oh, why? Why did you stop?' Almost there, almost there, just a few steps left.
'It seems it's because of a miscalculation of some marriage destiny. I don't know the specifics.'" "Hehe, I've reached the screen, and Xiaoyao's clothes are within easy reach. All I have to do is
yank , pull down the screen, grab them, and run out. Once outside, I'll yell 'Fire! Fire!' Hehe, I wonder
what everyone will think when they see such a handsome man emerging from the bath.
Hehe, you rascal Xiaoyao, you wouldn't let me see, huh? Fine, then let everyone see.
" "Do you know what he miscalculated? I know." I said, reaching for the clothes on the screen. My heart
pounded . A thrilling sensation filled my body.
"You really know?" Xiaoyao, oblivious to the impending disaster, chatted happily with me.
"It's because of me." I said, slowly grasping the clothes, my eyes fixed on the doorway. I took a deep breath and silently
counted down from three.
Three, don't panic, stay calm.
"Your reason?" Xiaoyao's tone was clearly interested.
"Hehe, that's a long story." "
Second, I've got into my running stance.
" "Tell me about it, I bet it's pretty..."
First, run.
I said run, and with a jerk of my clothes, I ran towards the door. I'd only taken a few steps when I heard a 'bang,' and without even turning around, I knew the screen had fallen. To be honest, I really wanted to
turn around, but I knew I couldn't afford to waste a single second. If I did, the plan might fall apart. You see, Xiaoyao is a formidable opponent.
I arrived, almost touching the door. Hehe, the door to my pranks was about to open.
"Dou'er." "Where are you rushing off to?" Oh no, I've been caught. How could this happen? I know Xiaoyao is amazing, but how could he
catch ?
I saw Xiaoyao's hands, still dripping with water, hug me from behind. My whole back instantly became damp. I could almost imagine what Xiaoyao looked
like hugging me now. Hehe, a naked beauty. I wonder if people would think he's a pervert if I yelled for help now.
"Dou'er, you'd better behave, or you'll regret it." Seriously, how did Xiaoyao know I was up to something? He's threatening me so promptly. Fine,
discretion I'll be the hero this time.
"Hehe, how could I dare to be dishonest? What are you talking about?" I decided to deny it to the death.
"Oh, so what are you doing with my clothes? You're not going to wash them for me, are you?" Xiaoyao's words sounded like he was teasing me. I couldn't stand his
omniscient attitude.
"Yeah, you're so smart. I'm going to wash your clothes." Since I couldn't fool him no matter what I said, I just went along with what he said, without even thinking of a plan.
"Then why are you running so fast?" Xiaoyao didn't seem to be planning to let me off so easily.
"Just hurry back." Since he was going to have a long chat, I was happy to keep him company. I couldn't see his naked body while he was holding me, so I had to find a comfortable position to lean against him. Apart from being
a little wet, everything else was fine, quite comfortable.
"Mmm, Dou'er." I rubbed against Xiaoyao, trying to find a more comfortable position to lean against him, but he let out a suppressed groan. That sound made
me blush. I'm not the naive little Dou Dou I used to be. And the hardness pressing against my back was a constant reminder.
The images from the erotic paintings I saw at 'Fragrant Garden' flashed through my mind, one after another, and my face burned as if I had a high fever. The atmosphere suddenly became even more ambiguous
.
"Xiaoyao, I'm hot," I said, only to realize after I'd already said it that I was not only hot, but my throat was also sore from a dry cough. "
Don't talk, you'll feel better after a while," Xiaoyao's voice sounded no better than mine, his throat was just as unpleasant. He seemed thirsty too.
I desperately wanted to calm down, but I just couldn't; I felt like I was on fire. I looked at Xiaoyao's arm, which was restless against my chest, still damp
with moisture. If I touched it with my lips, it might soothe my chapped lips.
I slowly raised my hand and grasped Xiaoyao's cold arm with my burning hand. The moment I touched his arm, I felt Xiaoyao's whole body
tremble . Xiaoyao probably didn't feel uncomfortable, because he didn't say a word, just let me hold it. Encouraged, I slowly lowered my head and
pressed my dry, almost cracked lips against Xiaoyao's damp arm.
"Oh, Dou'er." Hearing Xiaoyao's voice, I instinctively tried to pull away, but he didn't let me leave; instead, he held me even tighter.
As if bewitched, and feeling that Xiaoyao wasn't rejecting me, I rubbed myself against his arm, using its coolness to soothe myself. But I was insatiable
, growing increasingly unsatisfied and craving more. The coolness of my lips couldn't alleviate the burning in my throat, so eventually I stuck out my tongue and started licking his arm.
"Mmm, mmm..." Everyone knows what it feels like to be tickled through a boot; I felt incredibly unsatisfied, letting out a low growl of discontent and fidgeting
.
"Dou'er, don't move." Xiaoyao's voice sounded a little scary.
"Xiaoyao, I'm hot." I looked up at him pitifully, pulling open my collar while holding his hand.
"Oh, Dou'er, do you know what you're doing?" Xiaoyao's voice had become very weak.
"Yes, you're my husband, have you forgotten?" I think that's what he wanted to hear. And in fact, I guessed right. After hearing my answer, Xiaoyao turned me around
and before I could react, his lips were already on mine.
It felt so good. I desperately sucked on the moisture from Xiaoyao's mouth. And when my hands touched his skin, I felt so comfortable that I wanted to get closer, closer, and even
closer . My hands began to wander over his smooth back.
One of Xiaoyao's large hands held my head tightly, not letting me leave his lips, while the other slowly moved from my back to my waist. When he reached my waist, he pulled me closer
to his heat. His hardness hurt a little, and there was a strange feeling in it.
"Can you feel it?" Xiaoyao finally released my lips just when I thought I was going to die from not being able to breathe, allowing me to breathe. Only at this moment did I understand
the meaning of air. After releasing my lips, Xiaoyao still held me tightly, and whispered something in my ear that made my face burn. Embarrassed,
I buried my face in his chest, unsure how to look at him, and not wanting him to see me like this. My hands moved down to his waist.
Like a spoiled child, I wrapped my arms around his waist, burying my face against his chest.
But unlike a child's act, Xiaoyao wasn't wearing clothes. So when I looked down, I saw something I'd seen in 'health education' materials, and of course, when I'd
taken off Xiaotian's pants. I'd even seen it in 'erotic pictures.'
Xiaotian was a child, negligible. Now I knew how big the difference was between pictures and reality. The one in the picture was tiny, like a stick. But Xiaoyao's was huge, with veins
on it , and it even seemed to be pulsating as if it were alive. This intrigued me, and as the saying goes, curiosity killed the cat. So when I stretched out my curious paw and poked it with my finger
, I completely ignited the fuse.
"Oh, Dou'er." Xiaoyao shouted, then bent down and lifted me up in a strong hug. My heart was racing again, but I had to admit I loved it when Xiaoyao held me
like that . It made me feel like an adult, no longer a child.
"Dou'er, shall we get married?" Xiaoyao put me on the bed, and that was his first words. This touched me deeply. I've had many husbands, but only a few
, and none of the ones I've found have formally proposed. So Xiaoyao's words made me incredibly happy.
"Okay." It turns out being proposed to is such a joyful thing. I thought knowing the ending would make the process less important, but this simple
proposal moved me so much. It seems I should appreciate every day from now on.
"Dou'er." After I said "okay," I saw Xiaoyao's tense eyes instantly filled with joy.
"Xiaoyao." I murmured his name, reaching out my hands to him. I thought something was about to happen.
"Dou'er." Seeing my movement, Xiaoyao looked firmly into my eyes, as if seeking my confirmation. I smiled faintly back. There was nothing to regret. Having chosen
him, it was only natural to give myself to him. After my smile, Xiaoyao finally succumbed to temptation and pressed his body against mine.
I thought today I would become a woman, a real woman. But unexpectedly, a hidden weapon suddenly pierced through the window. The 'whoosh
' sound told me how fast it was. And with a 'bang,' it embedded itself in the bed frame.
"Who the hell is this?!" I sat up abruptly, bumping into Xiaoyao, who was already leaning towards me. Heh, no, it should be said, I bumped right into Xiaoyao's
nose.
"Ah!" Judging from Xiaoyao's scream, it was clear that his fragile nose had been badly damaged by my bump.
"Xiaoyao, are you alright?" I was genuinely startled. How could I be so careless? If his beautiful nose had been flattened, it would have been such a waste of God's masterpiece
.
"Dou'er, you've practiced 'Iron Head Kung Fu'?" Xiaoyao rubbed his nose and complained to me.
"Hehe, yeah. I practiced at 'Shaolin Temple'." It seemed Xiaoyao was alright, even joking with me now, so I was happy to play along.
"I was wondering where this little vixen came from to wreak havoc on the world, turns out she escaped from Shaolin Temple." Xiaoyao teased me with a laugh, and suddenly the ambiguous atmosphere was completely gone. His
once high-spirited and firm nose had also wilted. But that makes sense; not many normal people would be willing to put on a free show knowing someone is watching.
"Who is it? Aren't you going to catch him?" I noticed that Xiaoyao hadn't shown any intention of chasing after him since the beginning. Why was that?
"Can I chase after him like this? I don't want anyone but you to see me like this." Goodness, when did Xiaoyao start talking like this? It's hard to describe, but he
's definitely different now.
"Then hurry up and put on some clothes and chase after him." Is this guy some kind of exhibitionist?
"No need, if I put on some clothes, he'll be long gone. Let's go to sleep early. It's not bad to have someone keep watch for us." As he spoke, Xiaoyao actually climbed onto the bed
and lay down next to me, pulling me down onto the bed and hugging me tightly.
"Hey, put on some clothes. It's not good if others see us like this." I always felt that sleeping naked was a bit strange, especially when I knew someone was watching me nearby.
"It's okay, I'm a man. As long as you're not seen. Okay, Dou'er, be good, stop talking, go to sleep early." He hugged me tighter and even
gave me his arm as a pillow.
I wanted to say something, but Xiaoyao closed his eyes first, seemingly not wanting to talk anymore. Oh well, since this position is comfortable, I won't disturb him
. So I yawned and snuggled into Xiaoyao's arm, falling asleep.
Ugh, it tickles! Something's biting my ear. I couldn't help but slap it hard towards my ear.
"Dou'er, why are you hitting people in your sleep?" It was Xiaoyao! I opened my eyes abruptly. The first thing I saw after opening my eyes was Xiaoyao's upper body, completely naked.
Why upper body? Because his lower body was covered by the blanket, so I couldn't see it. Hehe.
"Why aren't you doing your own thing first thing in the morning? Why are you disturbing my sleep?" I retorted without hesitation.
"What are you dreaming about? What are you dreaming about? Am I in your dream?" Xiaoyao looked at me expectantly, like a child asking for candy.
"Let me tell you, I had 'that dream from yesterday.' And you were in it." I grinned mischievously at Xiaoyao.
"Really? What was I doing in the dream?" I didn't expect Xiaoyao to actually dare to ask.
"In the dream, you unveiled your veil to me." I answered with a smile.
"What kind of dream is about a veil?" Xiaoyao was a little confused.
"Yeah. I dreamt about 'Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils.' In the dream, you were Mu Wanqing, and I was Duan Yu." I said the answer with a straight face.
"Dou'er, you're so naughty." Xiaoyao was obviously not satisfied with my answer, hehe, but that was expected. He must have really been misled by me
and then misunderstood.
"What? I just dreamt about that. Did you think it was something else?" I looked at Xiaoyao with a smile. I wasn't afraid he would see that I was just teasing him.
"So you're not only naughty, you're really a little devil." Xiaoyao is really something, always giving me a bunch of inexplicable nicknames. This isn't fun at all. I
don't think I have that many unique traits.
*Gurgle gurgle gurgle gurgle*
"Okay, get lost, I'm not going to waste my breath on you. I'm going to find Zi Luo for dinner, I'm starving." I waved Xiao Yao away impatiently, treating him like a fly.
"Dou'er, waaaah, how could you treat me like this? I want you to take responsibility! Waaah!" Damn it. That damn Xiao Yao, putting on this disgusting act first thing in the morning, it's so awful
. Luckily, I'm well-informed, healthy, and don't have a heart condition, and I hadn't eaten breakfast, otherwise the consequences would have been unimaginable.
"Hey girl, come here and give me a kiss, if I'm happy, I won't dump you." As I spoke, I disgustingly reached out and smacked his tender face. Fine
, let's see who disgusts whom.
"Get lost." Xiao Yao slapped my hand away, looks like I won this time.
"Then I'll go eat my meal. You should hurry up and get dressed and come out. Or, hehe, you want to go out like this?" I've realized I definitely have the potential to be a pervert and a hooligan.
Not only am my words and actions lewd, but even the things I think about sometimes make me feel uncomfortable.
"You lewd woman, you should wash yourself up before going out. Aren't you afraid of scaring Zilu into having a miscarriage looking like this?" This Xiaoyao is too mean. Am I really
as exaggerated as he makes me out to be? Hehe, okay, he wants me to wash up, fine, I'll do as he wishes and wash up quickly. I quickly ran to the door, opened it, and loudly called out to the waiter,
"Hey buddy, hurry up and bring me some water to wash my face, the faster the better."
I looked at Xiaoyao, who wasn't dressed yet, on the bed and grinned smugly. Seeing him frantically trying to get dressed, I shrugged innocently. Hehe, he's the one who told me to hurry up
and wash up , it has nothing to do with me.

Chapter 115 First Arrival in the 'Sunset Kingdom'
"Hehe." I ate my breakfast while secretly laughing to myself. Thinking about how disheveled Xiaoyao looked when the waiter brought the hot water, I couldn't help but laugh
.
"DouDou, are you alright?" ZiLuo saw me with my head down, laughing so hard I looked like I
was about to burst, so she couldn't help but ask me with concern. "I'm fine, I'm fine." I stole a glance at Xiaoyao; he looked completely calm, as if nothing had happened. And when I looked at him, he gave me
a warning look. I stuck my tongue out at him. Fine, don't mention it then, what's the big deal?
I ate too fast, so I finished early. Actually, it wasn't that I ate less, but that ZiLuo ate slowly, one grain of rice at a time—it would take
forever .
Wait, why is everyone staring at us? And there are both men and women; the situation is very strange.
"Hey, Xiaoyao, what are they looking at?" I nudged Xiaoyao with my elbow, who seemed completely oblivious.
"You're the one who said 'the more the merrier'!" Ugh, what kind of talk is that, Xiaoyao? I was asking him why everyone was staring at us. What kind of attitude is that?
"Coming to the lobby and being stared at is ridiculous!" I pouted unhappily.
"Dou'er, come here, let me tell you." Xiaoyao winked at me and beckoned with his finger, seeing I was angry. I was drawn in by this mysterious aura
and curiously leaned closer.
"Your husband is the undisputed 'Number One Handsome Man in the Martial Arts World,' of course he's attractive." Haha, how can Xiaoyao be so shameless? Doesn't he know shame? Even if he's telling
the truth, it's better to let someone else say it; saying it yourself feels a bit arrogant.
"Tch, get out of here. I never noticed before, I think everyone's attention is on the great beauty, Zi Luo." To be honest, I hadn't paid attention until he mentioned it,
and now that he said it, I realized it made perfect sense. However, I wasn't going to agree with him. Otherwise, he'd be so beautiful he'd lose his bearings. So, I'd rather use that to praise Zi Luo
.
"Yes, men's attention is definitely because of Miss Zi Luo." After saying that, Xiaoyao even grinned at me, showing off his white teeth. I wanted to smash them all down on him.
"Xiaoyao, what do you mean by that?" Even if I'm not a beauty, I'm at least a pretty girl with some makeup. This Xiaoyao is really disrespectful to me.
"Sir, your carriage and provisions are ready." I really suspect this waiter received some bribe from Xiaoyao; why did he have to come at this time of year?
I glared at the waiter, who just scratched his head, seemingly unaware of what he'd done wrong.
"Okay, thank you for your trouble." Xiaoyao gave the waiter, who was clearly wronged, a gentle smile and offered him a silver coin as a tip.
"Thank you, thank you, sir." The waiter bowed and scraped before Xiaoyao like a philanthropist, thanking him before stealing a glance at Zilu, whose face was
flushed. I can understand all of that. He's beholden to those who give him gifts, and looking at beautiful women is every man's nature. But what I can't understand is that look he gave me as he left.
What kind ? Am I a tigress? He looked at me with such fear! It would have been better if he hadn't looked at me at all.
"Dou'er, are you full?" Xiaoyao asked with a smile after putting down his chopsticks. That jerk! He knows I'm unhappy, yet he still smiles.
What's with the smile? "I'm so angry I'm full, what's the point of eating?" I blurted out unhappily. But I think I was full before I got angry. Whatever, that's what I said, otherwise he
wouldn't understand my anger.
"Oh, then let's not eat here anymore. Let's go. We can eat on the way." After saying that, Xiaoyao stood up and walked towards the door.
"Hey, where's the luggage?" I really didn't want to remind him, but my luggage was up there too, so I figured I might as well do a good deed.
"In the carriage." Xiaoyao's answer was really simple, just three words.
"DouDou, let's hurry up." Just as I was about to explode, ZiLuo walked to my side and gently took my hand. The moment I saw ZiLuo's pretty face, all my anger
vanished People say that beautiful things bring good moods, and it certainly seemed true.
"Okay, ZiLuo, slow down. Be careful of my little nephew." I smiled faintly, staring at ZiLuo's still-not-so-obvious belly. ZiLuo followed my gaze and looked down at her belly, her eyes filled with
tenderness. Wow, so beautiful! This must be the legendary smile of maternal love. If the sunlight shone on her right now, maybe she'd have a halo above her head, hehe,
she'd look even more like an angel.
I carefully helped ZiLuo to the shop entrance. XiaoYao had already opened the car door and was waiting for us. Seeing that the car door was quite high, I climbed onto it like I was scaling a wall,
my bottom sticking out as I climbed up.
"Dou'er." XiaoYao's tone sounded like he wanted to laugh. I turned and glared at him. What was he laughing at? I really didn't know where he found such a big carriage. It was so tall,
how getting on? But I quickly realized why Xiaoyao was laughing at me. When Zilu got on the carriage, he actually found something like a step on the ground at the back,
and that's how Zilu gracefully boarded.
That was too much! Why didn't he tell me there was a step
? "Dou Dou, look, all of this is for you." Just as I was about to get angry with Xiaoyao, he handed me a basket.
"What is this?" Seeing his treasure-like expression, I curiously took it. Opening it made me scream: "Wow, so many snacks! This is great!
" After exclaiming, I started stuffing food into my mouth, of course sharing with Zilu. I'm the type who'd eat my ass off, and eating is one of my greatest
pleasures, so I forget all my unpleasantness when I'm eating.
June weather is like a child's face. Just like my situation, our journey slowly passed by amidst our laughter and playful banter. About
half a month , we finally arrived at the 'Sunset Kingdom'.
"Wow, the 'Sunset Kingdom' is so prosperous! Zilu, where is this?" I saw a bustling scene outside, completely different from what I had initially imagined. When they went to
the 'New Moon Kingdom' to present gifts, I thought the 'Sunset Kingdom' was a small, dependent country. Seeing it today, I realized how wrong I was. Judging from the current situation, things are probably
not as simple as I thought.
"This is the center of our 'Sunset Kingdom,' called 'Sun City'." I noticed that although Zilu tried to sound calm, I could still sense her
nervousness. I placed my hand on Zilu's, offering her silent support, and she gave me a grateful smile.
"Let's rest at the inn ahead today." Xiaoyao's words touched me deeply. He was so considerate. Although we had reached our destination, Zilu wasn't prepared to meet
Beigong Zheng. Calming down first was undoubtedly a good idea. And so we stayed at the 'Sun Never Sets Inn'.
I really like the name of this inn; it's not only grand but also has a modern feel. I thought we'd only stay here for a day or two, and once Zilu was mentally
prepared, we'd go see Beigong Zheng. But things didn't go as planned.
We heard a lot of news on our first day at the inn. For example, the Empress was critically ill, and the Emperor had found some kind of divine physician to treat her.
And the Second Prince was known for his womanizing ways. These two pieces of news changed our plans, leaving us completely at a loss.
Seeing Zilu silent and barely eating, I was incredibly anxious. Beigong Zheng, you heartless bastard! Zilu
is suffering , and he can still enjoy himself with other women. It's outrageous! I must teach this heartless man a lesson. Otherwise, I'll drive myself crazy
.
"Waiter, come and talk," I said after Zilu went back to her room to rest and after confirming that Xiaoyao had gone back to her room to shower. I went to the lobby alone and grabbed a waiter to chat with.
"Ah, is there anything I can do for you, sir?" The waiter was a little uncomfortable with my casual manner.
"It's nothing, I just want to ask you a few questions. I hope you can tell me the truth." I know there's no such thing as a free lunch, so when I asked him questions, I didn't
ask them for nothing; instead, I took out a piece of silver as a reward. Hehe, I didn't feel bad at all, because I swiped it from Xiaoyao.
"Sir, please ask any questions you may have, don't be shy, I will answer honestly." After receiving the silver, the waiter immediately became much more enthusiastic. Sure enough, money is the best
introducer , because everyone knows him.

Chapter 116 Ling Feng Takes Me 'Into the Palace'
The information I got from the waiter made me decide that I couldn't go directly to Beigong Zheng. It seems I have to go to Haoran first, and there's a question that's been bothering me:
did Haoran really come to my bedside that night, and was there really a peerless face hidden under his veil? I must find out this time.
"Who goes there? Get out of here!" Really, it seems that being a royal servant is all that's cool; even guarding a gate is more arrogant than others.
"Hehe, this is the palace, isn't it? I'm looking for someone, could you please inform them for me?" As the saying goes, one doesn't hit a smiling face, and with the silver ingot I secretly slipped him,
things should be much easier now.
"Oh, you're looking for someone? A eunuch or a palace maid? Tell me their name and I'll find them for you, but remember to use the side gate next time." See? Money talks.
His attitude changed immediately upon seeing money. I wonder if it's safe to have someone like this guarding the city gates. If the enemy offered him some benefits, would he betray his master for personal gain?
"Oh, I'm not looking for a eunuch, nor a palace maid." I'm looking for someone of great importance.
"Neither a eunuch nor a palace maid. You're not looking for a concubine, are you? That's a bit against the rules, but I can inform them for you. As for whether they'll grant you an audience,
that on the master's decision." What? Seeing a concubine is this difficult? If it were the emperor, there wouldn't even be a window, let alone a door.
"I...I don't want to see any empress." I said this in a low voice. I realized that seeing the emperor was impossible. I was afraid that if I said I wanted
to see the emperor, I would be thrown out.
"Neither this nor that, do you still dream of seeing the emperor?" The guard was obviously getting impatient.
"I am..." I wanted to say that I wanted to see the emperor, but the words wouldn't come out.
"What is it?" The guard stared at me, wondering what I was having trouble saying.
"She just wants to see me." At this moment, a voice came from inside. I turned to look in the direction of the voice, but only saw a carriage. The voice must have come from
inside the carriage .
"Dr. White Horse, you've arrived. And this young lady is..." The guard immediately bowed his head politely and greeted me respectfully.
"She's my personal maid. She came especially to help me when the Empress fell ill." Wow, why is this person helping me? We don't even know each other. Wait, what was this guard called him again?
'The White Horse Physician'? Could it be 'White Horse Fragrance'? This thought made my heart leap with joy.
"Oh, I see. Please forgive my rudeness, young lady." He really knows how to talk to different people. I originally wanted to tease him, but seeing how willing he was to admit his mistake
, I'll forgive him.
"It's alright, you were just doing your duty." I waved my hand generously, indicating I didn't mind.
"Get in the carriage! We need to hurry to see the Empress." A stern voice came from inside the carriage, clearly reminding me to hurry. I said "Oh," and immediately walked towards the carriage.
"Make way for 'The White Horse Physician'!" I hadn't even reached him when I heard the guard call out to his superior to make way. It seems this 'White Horse Physician' is quite a capable person. However, was he
really Bai Ma Liu Xiang, my dear husband? Clinging to this hope, I took a deep breath and opened the carriage curtain.
Disappointment and surprise—
I don't know how to describe my expression after seeing the person inside. It wasn't Bai Ma Liu Xiang, but there was disappointment, though not entirely, because the person inside
also possessed a captivating face. And I'd seen that face before, just recently. He was the man who bumped into me and Zi Luo at the inn's entrance.
"Aren't you going to sit down? How much longer are you going to watch?" Judging from his tone, he seemed to have a problem with me. What's wrong? He was the one who bumped into me last time, why is he acting like this?
"Oh." Well, I need his help, so I'll just keep quiet. Hehe, anyway, he's definitely my husband. I'll find a chance to properly train him later.
I obediently sat down next to him and started counting on my fingers.
Yu, Liu Xiang, Xiao Yao, Piao Xue, Mo Li—that's five in total. If Hao Ran is also one, then adding this one, we should have found seven. Hehe, almost there,
but it's really worrying. How are Yu, Liuxiang, and Piaoxue doing now? And where is Moli? I don't even know if I'll ever see him again. Haoran is
an emperor with three thousand beauties. If he weren't my husband, that would be one thing, but what if he were? He'd be one-ninth of my husband, and I'd be one-three-thousandth of his wife.
Just thinking about all this is giving me a headache. It seems the modern monogamous system is really humane. They know people don't have that much energy to devote to multiple people at the same time; that
would definitely shorten their lifespan. And the blessing of having multiple wives isn't something most people can tolerate.
"White Horse Lingma." Suddenly, my new husband said this, and my confused mind didn't react immediately. I was stunned for a moment before realizing he was introducing himself.
"Oh, Mr. White Horse, hello, hello. My name is Long Doudou, you can just call me Doudou." After I came to my senses, I quickly greeted him.
"Mr. White Horse." Hearing his puzzled tone, I cursed myself inwardly as an 'idiot'.
"Hehe, it just means 'the prince charming on a white horse'." I laughed awkwardly.
"Miss Long, why did you come to the palace alone? Where is your husband?" It seems she's not interested in me; she's asking about my husband right away. It seems my love life is really bumpy.
I couldn't handle one holdout, and now another one has appeared. Who can stand this? I really want to quit. Thinking of this, I didn't even bother to answer and just let out a long sigh.
"Miss Long, are you alright?" Seeing that I didn't answer and looked weak, she couldn't help but ask with concern.
"I'm fine. I'm fine." I said I was fine, but in my heart I was thinking: 'It's good that you're alright.'
"Then who does Miss Long want to see in the palace? Do you need me to take you?" Ling Feng didn't ask, and I really didn't have time to think about that. Right, what should I do now?
If I go to see the emperor, I can't keep an eye on him; he might disappear like Mo Li.
"I want to see the Empress. Yes, I want to see the Empress." After much thought, this was still the best idea. If I went to the Empress, firstly, I could see the Emperor, and secondly, I
could slowly cultivate a relationship with Ling Feng. The more I thought about it, the more reasonable it seemed. Hehe, it seems I'm really clever.
"You know the Empress?" Right, I don't know the Empress. If I go, won't I be exposed? What should I do? After thinking it over, I still think, 'At home, rely on your parents; when you're out in the world, rely on your friends.' Now...
The only person I could call a friend, and who could actually help, was this Bai Ma Ling Feng standing before me.
"I don't know him." I decided to take a gamble and tell the truth. Honesty is essential when asking for help.
"If you don't know him, then what were you doing seeing the Empress?" Ling Feng's handsome eyebrows furrowed at my words. I think he must be regretting helping me now. But, hehe,
sorry , it's too late for regrets.
"Well, the Empress is ill, and as a citizen of 'Sunset Kingdom,' it's only right to show concern." Ugh, I just said I'd tell the truth, but now that the key question is out, I'm
back to my old self. Hehe, the truth is hard to say, or rather, it's hard to explain clearly. Besides, I can't say it. If I said I saw the Empress to seduce her, I'd be thrown out
of the palace!
"If you want me to help you, tell the truth." Sigh, how did he see right through me? I don't know if it's my acting that's bad, or if he has such sharp eyes.
"Okay, it's nothing really. I just heard the Empress is a rare beauty, everyone says she's even prettier than Zi Luo. Zi Luo is the beautiful woman you bumped into,
remember?" I started to lie and bluff. "
I forgot what she looks like." Damn, this man is so rude, he actually said he forgot.
"Oh dear, how could you forget such a beauty? Zi Luo is very beautiful, think, think again." I started to hypnotize him. I hoped to distract him.
"Even if she's very beautiful, so what? You're not trying to tell me you went through all that trouble to come to the palace just to see if the Empress is really prettier than your friend, are you?" Bai Ma Ling Feng's
tone was full of disbelief.
"Bingo, you got it right." I announced the answer with a smile. Of course, I didn't forget to flatter him: "You're so smart."
"Alright then, I'll take you to see the Empress, and I'll send you out of the palace first thing tomorrow morning." Ling Feng's words made me shout excitedly.
"What? Leaving the palace tomorrow morning? That won't do." If that's the case, what's the difference between leaving now and leaving now? One night isn't enough time to make this Bai Ma Ling Feng fall for me
; even seeing Hao Ran is a problem. I was only thinking about scheming against myself, completely unaware of how out of line I was being.
"Why not?" Why does Bai Ma Ling Feng have so many questions? Honestly, can't he just turn a blind eye and let me off the hook?
"It's like this, think about it. This palace isn't something you can just walk into. I finally got in thanks to you, so I should at least look around a bit so I won't have any regrets.
Ling Feng, you agree, right?" Everyone could see that I'm a natural at making friends. Just a moment ago I was calling him "Young Master Bai Ma," but after a few words, I switched to calling him Ling Feng.
"Unauthorized personnel cannot linger in the palace for too long." This Ling Feng really didn't give me any face, directly calling me "unauthorized personnel."
"Oh, don't say that. I'm not some 'unrelated person,' I'm your 'personal maid,' aren't I?" I smiled at him, hoping he would take pity on me and
help me .
"You want me to help you?" Great, he finally understood what I meant, and I nodded vigorously with joy. But his next words made me realize that I was too happy too soon.
"Why should I help you? We're not even that close." Damn, how heartless.
"You bumped into me last time, so consider it an apology and help me." After thinking it over, this was the only 'old grudge' we could bring up.
"If it weren't for me, do you think you could have gotten in? Taking you into the palace should offset what happened last time, right?" Honestly, how can a grown man be so
petty and serious Why do he have to be so calculating? I had nothing more to say. At worst, I could only sneak away tonight and hide. He wouldn't be able to find
me even if he wanted to.
"It's not impossible for me to help you. But you have to promise me one thing." My previously despairing heart suddenly came back to life.
"Really? What is it? Tell me. Anything is fine." Hehe, I almost excitedly said I'd even offer myself in return. I really hoped he
would ask , so I could save myself a lot of trouble.
"I haven't thought of anything yet, I'll think about it later." Although I didn't want to owe anyone anything, considering this person was my husband, I'd just owe him once.
"Okay, deal." I was so happy I almost jumped for joy.
Next, we quickly exchanged some words, it wouldn't be good if I gave myself away. Now, cough cough, I am Bai Ma Ling Feng, the Bai Ma Divine Doctor's 'personal maid'. I came all the way from '
Shuo Yue Kingdom' to help take care of the Queen.
"Bai Ma Divine Doctor, we've arrived at 'Moon Palace'." I almost laughed when I heard this name. Moon Palace is also Chang'e.
"What's wrong?" Ling Feng looked at my strange expression.
"Oh, I just thought the name was a bit strange." I simply explained my reason.
"You're not a citizen of 'Sunset Kingdom,' are you?" Ling Feng was really sharp; he could guess I wasn't from that country with just one sentence. I looked at him cautiously, wondering if he would go back on
his word.
"Don't be nervous, I'm from 'New Moon Kingdom' too." I finally relaxed after he said that. Right, I remember meeting him on the road; how come I never thought we were from the same
country? Hehe, anyway, I fell right into 'New Moon Kingdom,' and when I tied the rope, I happened to be tied to the 'New Moon Kingdom' group. So, I should be considered
a person from 'New Moon Kingdom,' right?
I saw Ling Feng get off the carriage, and I quickly jumped down after him.
"Ling Feng, you still haven't told me why this place is called 'Moon Palace'!" I quickly caught up with Ling Feng, unleashing my insatiable curiosity.
“In the ‘Sun and Evening Kingdom,’ there’s a saying that everything has Yin and Yang, and the moon is considered the extreme of Yin; while the sun is the extreme of Yang. Therefore, the Empress’s residence is called the ‘Moon Palace.’”
Heh, I didn’t know there was such a saying. It seems there’s something about Yin and Yang in modern times too. But unfortunately, I haven’t researched it.
“Then the Emperor’s residence should be called the ‘Sun Palace,’ right?” I said, trying to sound clever.
“Heh, that’s about right. The Emperor’s residence is called the ‘Sun Palace.’” Ugh, I got teased. I should have known better than to try and be so clever.
“Dr. White Horse, you’ve arrived! Her Majesty the Empress has ordered that you come in directly.” I was about to continue chatting with Ling Feng when a girl came out and
interrupted . I sized her up; her face was flushed, she must be interested in Ling Feng. I need to study her carefully, see if she poses a threat to me. She was dressed beautifully, but
only appeared neat and clever, not noble. I guessed she was some kind of palace maid. I stole a glance at Ling Feng; his eyes were indifferent, so it seemed he wasn't interested in this beauty.
Hehe, I'm relieved. I grinned silently, revealing my teeth. This only earned me a disgruntled glare from the pretty girl and a smirking look from Ling Feng.
"Which palace maid are you from? Is the Moon Palace a place you can just come and go as you please?" Looking at the palace maid's unfriendly and angry words, I shook my head in disappointment. There's a saying...
It's said that kind people are the most beautiful. Conversely, those who aren't kind, even if you thought she was pretty just now, become incredibly ugly after such a tantrum.
"Dou Dou, let's go in." Clearly, Ling Feng was also dissatisfied with this person's rudeness. So he ignored her completely and directly beckoned me to follow him inside.
"Yes, Young Master." I responded politely immediately. This was all arranged beforehand. Originally, Ling Feng wanted me to call him 'Master,' but I felt
like , so I rejected that too. In the end, I compromised and called him 'Young Master.' I remember Xiao Zhao calling Zhang Wuji that in 'The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber.'
I looked at the palace maid who was supposed to lead the way, but was now following behind with a face full of annoyance, and made a face. Hehe, looking down on me, huh? Serves you right! The little palace maid saw me making a face at her
, glared at me angrily, then flicked her sleeves and ran to the front.
"Please, Physician Baima." It seems this little palace maid isn't going to give up; she's really going to challenge me.
"Thank you," Ling Feng politely replied with two words, and the little palace maid's eyes lit up with excitement at those two words.
My god, that's too exaggerated! If Ling Feng said, "You're so beautiful," she would faint! I really can't imagine what she's thinking. It seems this kind of person has
the feeling of facing an idol, not an equal mindset. They're basically just chasing stars; they can't actually be with their idol. Think about it, who would have stars
in their eyes , and faint just from his smile? Let alone if their husband does anything inappropriate to them.

Chapter 117 Hao Ran's 'True Face'
"You've arrived," a soft voice came out, and you could tell from the voice that it was a beauty like Daiyu.
"How are you feeling?" Ling Feng's voice was still calm, but it seemed to have a hint of emotion. This immediately made me feel a sense of crisis again, and I rushed in quickly, wanting to see
if this Empress was after him.
"Ouch!" How embarrassing! I was rushing too fast and bumped headfirst into Ling Feng's back.
"Dou Dou, are you alright?" Ling Feng was really considerate; instead of scolding me for being clumsy, he even rubbed my unfortunate nose with concern.
"Your back is so hard, it hurt so much! I really want to see what it's made of. Let me make this clear: if my nose gets flattened and I'm not pretty anymore, you'll have to take responsibility." I was being
shameless seeing that Ling Feng didn't scold me for being reckless and even showed a rare expression of concern, I took the opportunity to act cute and try to get closer to him. Hehe, if he
agreed, I'd just shamelessly say my nose was flat, and if he actually took responsibility and married me, wouldn't I be the one who got the better end of the deal?
"You can say so much in one breath; it seems like you're alright." Ling Feng seemed to be in a good mood; he even smiled. Why are you so glad my nose is okay and I don't have to take responsibility
?
"You say it's okay, but it's an internal injury, you know what an internal injury is?" Seriously, you can't tell from the outside just by looking at it.
"Really? An internal injury? That's no small matter, it's very serious." Heh, finally got my attention.
"Good to know, so I need to check if there are any aftereffects. If there are, you'll have to take responsibility." I saw he seemed to be intimidated by me, so I quickly pressed on, trying to trick
this husband into coming home too. Wait, where did he pull out a box from? And what is he digging at?
"Hey, what do you think you're doing?" Oh my god, that guy actually walked towards me with a bunch of things. Before he unfolded them in front of me, I was curious, but after he unfolded them, I was so scared that I quickly took a few steps
back . What is he thinking with that bunch of knives and scissors? Is he going to use them on me? No way, a thousand times no way, ten thousand times no way. I'd
rather die than have them.
"Didn't you say it might be internal injury? Let me open it up and see if there's any damage." I heard Ling Feng's casual tone, as if he were talking about the weather. A cold sweat broke out all over me. Seeing
his serious expression, was he really going to do it?
"Ling Feng, this is my nose, not clothes," I reminded him fearfully. A nose isn't like clothes, you can't just sew it up.
"I know, don't worry. I'm very confident in my medical skills. I guarantee I can sew it back up after cutting it open." Oh God, someone save me! Have I encountered one of those legendary 'medical fanatics
'? I've heard that these people often use other people's bodies for experiments.
"Ling Feng, listen to me. I know your medical skills are amazing, and even if you take it apart, you can sew it back up, but it will still leave a scar." I don't want to be disfigured, not even my nose
. I want my husband, but I absolutely can't pay such a high price with my nose.
"You can rest assured about all of this. I guarantee it won't hurt when I cut it, and it'll be back to normal very quickly after the stitches are done, without leaving a single scar." Damn, he really has confidence in himself
, but that's just him. I'm not that sure. I'd have to be crazy to believe him. Even with modern medicine being so advanced, no one would dare say that, yet this
old fogey saying it. Believing him would mean I've lost my mind.
"Hey, don't come any closer, I'm fine now. It's okay, it really doesn't hurt at all, really, I swear." Seeing Ling Feng move a little closer, I was so scared that I covered my nose and
backed away.
"Alright, senior brother, if you keep chasing this Dou Dou girl, you'll force her out of the room." Just as I reached the doorway, wondering whether to rush out, that soft voice
rang out again. Right, the Empress is still here. I seem to be very impolite, but what did the Empress just call Ling Feng? I think it was "senior brother," so they must be quite familiar with each other
.
"Dou Dou, don't back down. If you're alright, then you're alright. But remember, if you feel unwell, come find me anytime." I nodded quickly, but in my heart, I was thinking, I
'd rather die than come find him.
I knew it! There's no such thing as a perfect person in this world. Even the most beautiful person has their flaws.
"You must be Her Majesty the Empress. My name is Long Dou Dou, you can just call me Dou Dou. Oh my, Your Majesty, you're even more beautiful than everyone says." I squinted and smiled at
the gentle beauty before me. My greatest strength is my obsequiousness; my flattery skills are unparalleled.
"Senior brother, where did this Dou Dou come from? She's got such a sweet tongue." Seeing the smile on the Empress's face, I looked smugly at Ling Feng. How could I make the Empress so pleased? I didn't embarrass him, did I?
"
She's my newly acquired personal maid. She's a bit impulsive, but she's quite clever." Damn, this Ling Feng is so disrespectful! He actually insulted me so rudely. Oh well, when you
're under someone's roof, you have to bow your head. Besides, I have to live at his mercy right now. I'll just have to bear with it for now. I firmly believe that fortunes change, and sooner or later this kid will fall into my
hands.
"Senior brother, you're so lucky." Why is this empress so melancholy? She just blurted out that out of nowhere. Who knows what she's talking about?
"Who can really explain fate?" Damn, this Ling Feng is even more audacious; he's even bringing up fate.
But these two are just talking, why are they staring at me like that, as if I'm the subject of their conversation? What's with all this talk of luck and fate? I don't understand.
*Gurgle gurgle gurgle
* "Hehe, Miss Dou Dou, I'm so sorry, you haven't eaten yet. Are you hungry? I'll have Xiao Ai prepare something to eat." Wow, this queen is so nice! Not only is she beautiful
, but she's also down-to-earth, and most importantly, she's so understanding. Hehe, I'll follow her from now on; life should be pretty comfortable then.
"No need to trouble yourself, I'll just have some snacks." Looking at the way Xiao Ai is glaring at me, I wouldn't dare let her serve me. What if she drugged me or something? I'd be
in big trouble! Even if she didn't drug me, I couldn't do anything about her spitting on me. So, I'd better be sensible and just grab something nearby to fill my stomach
.
"Can I just eat this?" The Queen, clearly a pampered young lady who had never eaten snacks as a meal, spoke as if I had done something utterly unbelievable. I really don't
understand how people can be so different. Some can eat and drink well every day, snacking on all sorts of treats. Others, let alone eat them, have probably never even
seen .
"Sure, of course. I'll eat it for you. Wow, so delicious, so tasty!" If her initial exaggeration was a bit exaggerated, after tasting the snack, it was a completely
genuine exclamation, because it truly was delicious.
"Is it really that good?" Heh, although she was the Queen, she was still, frankly, just a young girl. So, watching me wolf down the food, her eyes were full of curiosity. She
stared at me wide-eyed, as if begging me to give her some. It was really funny; this was her own food, why did she act like she'd never eaten it before?
"Would you like to try some?" I held up the half-eaten snack, looking at her with tempting eyes.
"I chuckled," she chuckled, not refusing, seemingly a little tempted.
"Come on, it's free to try, you don't have to eat it if you don't like it." I mimicked a supermarket salesperson's tone, constantly extending enticing invitations.
With my persistent efforts, the Empress seemed hypnotized, slowly approaching me. I watched her small mouth slowly open, and I, or rather, everyone,
watched . She was really slow; it wasn't a movie, why was it like slow motion? My mouth couldn't help but open wider than hers
.
Almost there, almost there, she'd bite into it soon. Hehe, the dignified Empress eating a pastry I'd only half-eaten, I really had face.
"The Empress Dowager has arrived! The Emperor has arrived!" a shrill voice came from outside.
The ambiance I'd painstakingly created in the room was instantly shattered. The Empress immediately realized her lapse in decorum, quickly straightened up, and began to tidy her makeup. Then,
supported by Xiao Ai, she quickly walked outside. It seemed she was going to greet the Emperor. Honestly, why now of all times?
I fiddled with the snack I'd tried to feed the Empress but hadn't managed to. Reluctantly, following behind them at Ling Feng's urging, I followed them outside. Before I
'd heard a chorus of greetings—Empress Dowager, Emperor, Empress—they'd greeted everyone. Just as I was getting a little dizzy from all the noise, I suddenly
heard the Empress Dowager's roar.
"How can you servants serve your mistress like this? Knowing the Empress is ill, why don't you let her rest in bed? If something happens to her, who among you can bear the responsibility?
" Hearing that voice, I shrank back in fear. So stern! However, the concern for the Empress in her voice wasn't fake. I figured it was probably some niece or grandniece
. That's how it's always portrayed on TV.
"Aunt, it's not their fault. Yue'er just felt better and came down for a walk." Hearing the Empress's understanding words, my goodwill towards her increased even more.
"My son, quickly help Yue'er inside." The Empress Dowager gave another order, but this time she should have been addressing the Emperor. Wait, the Emperor! I wasn't paying attention just now, but now that
the Empress Dowager mentioned 'my son,' I realized. The Emperor is Haoran. I slowly raised my head and looked over. I had a strong feeling, or rather a premonition, that he was definitely not
wearing a mask, that he was showing his true face. No one would hide their true face from their mother and wife. But that only meant if he really lied to me;
if he wasn't lying and was truly disfigured, then that was a different story.
My palms were sweating nervously, but I still didn't dare to look. I was so conflicted; I didn't even know what kind of face I wanted him to have. Oh well, I'll take the risk. Anyway, this is
n't . So, I gritted my teeth and abruptly raised my head.
The instant I saw the Emperor's face, the pastry in my hand slipped from my grasp and fell to the ground. It rolled and rolled until it stopped at Haoran's feet
. The moment the pastry fell, everyone's gaze focused on me—everyone, absolutely everyone. They were all looking at me, while I stared unblinkingly at Haoran's face
, his eyes filled with both surprise and delight.
"Dou Dou, are you alright?" The Empress walked to my side and gently shook my dazed expression.
"I, I'm fine, thank you for your concern, Your Majesty." I quickly composed myself and replied to the Empress.
"Where did you come from, you little brat? What 'I'? How can you be so ill-mannered?" Just from that one sentence, it was clear the Empress Dowager disliked me. And the way she looked at me
was very unfriendly, as if I were some wild child.
"Your Majesty, Dou Dou is my personal maid. She came all the way from 'Shuoyue Kingdom' specifically for the Empress's illness." Ling Feng is quite a good master. He stood up for me when he knew someone was bullying me
.
"So you're one of Ling Feng's people. You seem quite extraordinary." Damn, I'm impressed. Even the Empress Dowager is so pragmatic. No wonder so many people seek powerful backers and powerful connections
.
Hao Ran didn't say a word the whole time, just stared at me intently, lost in thought. But when he saw Ling Feng step in to protect me, his eyebrows furrowed in displeasure
, and he looked at me with disapproving eyes, as if I were a woman who had cheated on her husband.
That bastard, he still has the nerve to be dissatisfied with me. I'm honest no matter what, but he lies again and again, he's become a master liar. Looking at that exceptionally handsome
face, I really had the urge to rush over and scratch it a couple of times. Fine, you're not lying to me, are you just treating me like an idiot? Fine, if I'm not happy, nobody else will be. The little devil inside me awakened again,
unable to resist causing trouble.
"Empress Dowager, DouDou greets you. If no one told me you were the Empress Dowager, I wouldn't have known you were so young and beautiful. I thought you were the Empress's older sister."
Flattery never fails. Anyone can be obsequious. My purpose in doing this is to infuriate that big liar HaoRan later.
"Hehe, Lingfeng. You little rascal, you really know how to talk, hehe, you're so lovable." The Empress Dowager couldn't stop smiling after I praised her.
"No way, DouDou is just telling the truth. You can ask Lingfeng, he often says I'm clumsy with words and don't know how to talk." I walked up to Lingfeng naturally, acting as if we
were very familiar.
"Hehe, still telling the truth, you're such a joy to be around. Would you like to stay in my palace and keep me company from now on?" I knew she would say that; it's
a common trait among people like them. Once they like something, they want it, and once they get it, they don't cherish it. It's really disrespectful of human rights. Although I was filled with anger,
the smile on my face never left my face.
"Empress Dowager, it's cold outside. Please come inside." I considerately stepped forward to help the Empress Dowager, and she looked at me with a smile, clearly very satisfied with me.
People say the eyes are the windows to the soul, so I knew Haoran was still watching me, but I wouldn't glance at him once. Even when my gaze was about to meet his,
I would avoid him like an obstacle. I resolutely refused to meet his eyes. I wouldn't give him the slightest chance to peek into my soul.
"Dou Dou, how about it? Do you want to stay by my side from now on?" After I helped the Empress Dowager sit down, she didn't let me leave, but instead held my hand with a face full of affection
. I had no choice but to stand obediently beside her.
"Well, Dou Dou also really wants to serve Your Majesty, but..." I stopped there, feigning difficulty, and deliberately glanced at Ling Feng.
"Your Majesty"—oh dear, why wasn't there such a title as "Your Majesty" in ancient times? Isn't this an ancient way of addressing people? Oh well, maybe this isn't the term used in this era.
"The title 'Old Buddha' is an honorific for Your Majesty, meaning you are as benevolent, compassionate, kind, and great as Buddha." My explanation brought a smile to the Empress Dowager's face again.
It seemed I had completely won her over this time.
"Haha, you little rascal, you've got so many tricks up your sleeve. 'Old Buddha,' you're quite the 'Old Buddha.' Haha. Dou Dou, you haven't said yet if you'd like to stay by my side from now
on ." Since the Empress Dowager had brought this up again and again, it seemed she really wanted to keep me. But this wasn't my plan. I could pretend for a while, but if I kept pretending, I'd
break down.
"Your Majesty, I really want to stay with you, but..." I said, glancing shyly at Ling Feng. Ling Feng understood and walked over, taking my hand.
"Your Majesty, I can't bear to part with you." Clever, I knew Ling Feng was smart.
"Well, this old woman can't force you. But, Dou Dou, you have to promise me you'll come to the palace often to chat with me." Seeing how much the Empress Dowager adored
me , I chuckled and nodded. But as I nodded, I secretly glanced at Hao Ran. She was furious that I was being intimate with Ling Feng. Fine, then I won't be intimate with him. Even if I'm not intimate,
I still have ways to drive you crazy.
Heh heh, I've repeatedly told him how much I hate being lied to. And he still knowingly did it. Fine, if you dare to do something, you have to bear the consequences.
Chapter 118 Flattery Turns into "Princess"
Hao Ran, Hao Ran, if you still don't regret provoking me, then you're about to see the consequences.
"Waaah." I'm best at crying, especially faking it; that's my forte.
"Dou Dou, what's wrong? Did someone bully you? Tell me, and I'll stand up for you." Heh heh, well, a few flattering words, and I have such a powerful backer. I've really
struck gold.
"Yes, Dou Dou, why are you suddenly crying? Did something happen?" Even the Empress is supporting me. But why aren't Hao Ran and Ling Feng saying anything? I think they
probably saw through my act. Ugh, all my husbands are so shrewd!
"Thank you for your concern, Empress Dowager and Empress. I'm fine. It's just that I was an orphan when I first came to this world. I've never known what it
feels like , and no one has ever treated me as well as you have. So, so, boohoo." So I couldn't come up with anything else, so I could only cry. However, I think those who think they're clever
will definitely see it as touching.
"Oh, what a pitiful child. Don't cry. From now on, I'll be your mother. That way you'll have family, and no one will bully you." This Empress Dowager is so cooperative!
But when did I say anyone bullied me? Everything I said was the truth. I was an orphan when I first came to this world, hehe.
"Ah, really, Empress Dowager?" Although it was expected, I still had to show a little surprise.
"Still calling her Empress Dowager?" Hehe, seeing the Empress Dowager's kind demeanor now, so different from her arrogant attitude just now, I actually quite like her now.
"Mother." I called out softly. Good heavens, I've finally turned the tables! Hehe, let's see who dares to stop me from entering the palace now, I'm a princess! Hehe, let's see if
Ling Feng still wants to send me away, I can stay in the palace openly now, haha, haha. I was laughing so hard I was practically rolling on the floor, but I was also telling myself to hold back,
it would be terrible if I got too carried away and gave myself away.
"Good, good, I'll bestow upon you the title of 'Princess Chang Le,' what do you think?" 'Princess Chang Le,' damn, that's really tacky, but oh well, at least I'm a princess now, and from
this name, you can see the Empress Dowager's intention, she hopes I will always be happy. This touched me deeply.
"Thank you, Mother." If I was just pretending, then this thank you wasn't, no matter why, this thank you came from the bottom of my heart.
"Good, good child, hurry up and pay your respects to your elder brother and sister-in-law." Ta-da! Hehe, all this hard work has been for this moment. I slowly walked up to
Haoran and the Empress called 'Yue'er,' my face beaming. I remember telling Haoran I hated kowtowing; if he dared to make me kneel, hehe, his future
would be even worse.
"DouDou greets elder brother and sister-in-law." I said, making a move to kneel, but why was my movement so slow? Hehe, because I didn't really want to kneel. "DouDou
, no, Princess Chang Le, no need to be so polite. From now on, we're family." Damn Haoran, he didn't even say "no need for formalities," it was the Empress who said it. I straightened up and
glared at him. Kid, we've really crossed a line.
"Mother, I have other matters to attend to, I must take my leave." Fine, you've got it all figured out, ignoring me the whole time.
"It's getting late. Where are you going? Stay here with the Empress to rest today. I'm tired too, it's time for me to go." The Empress Dowager finished speaking and stood up to leave, giving the Emperor no chance
to refuse .
"Mother, let me see you off." I quickly went over to help her.
"Hehe, alright, Dou Dou, you can stay here with the Empress for now. Once the Empress has recovered, I'll have the Emperor assign you a suitable residence in the palace." I really wanted to shout "Long live the Emperor!"
This was wonderful! If that happened, I would have my first proper home since coming to this ancient world. This feeling was truly wonderful.
"Thank you, Mother, and sister-in-law. You're not feeling well, DouDou can take her." I saw the Empress was about to move, so I quickly stopped her.
"Yes, if you're not feeling well, don't move. I'll come see you again when I have time." Wow, it seems the Empress Dowager really dotes on her niece, the Empress.
"Aunt, Yue'er thanks you." Seeing the Empress's teary eyes, it seems she truly appreciates this aunt. The Empress Dowager
took her hand and patted it, then let me help her away without saying a word. Judging from their expressions, it seemed like something was going on. In the end, although
neither of them said a word, the Empress's grateful expression, combined with the Empress Dowager's distressed expression, conveyed a thousand words.
"Mother, you seem to dote on sister-in-law." I couldn't just not say a word on the way to the Empress Dowager's funeral.
"Oh, DouDou, I liked you the moment I saw you, so I might as well tell you." Hehe, I almost burst out laughing when I heard the Empress Dowager say that. To be precise, she probably
only liked me the second time she saw me. I didn't say a word, just listened quietly. I figured she'd been keeping some things to herself for a long time.
"Yue'er's father, my brother, died for his country when he was very young, and his mother committed suicide to follow him. Poor Yue'er,
I've been her only family ever since." Hearing the Empress Dowager say this, Yue'er really did seem as pitiful as Lin Daiyu.
"I never imagined my sister-in-law was so pitiful. But she's also lucky, at least she has an aunt like you who loves her." I wasn't flattering her; I genuinely thought so. "
I thought so too at first, but then I discovered that Yue'er, whom I brought back to the palace to raise, seemed to have changed completely. She went from a lively and cheerful girl to a quiet one,
and she doesn't say a word. This worried me terribly. All the imperial physicians were helpless, saying there was nothing wrong with her body, but rather a mental illness—in other words, she couldn't think straight." It seemed the Empress Dowager
was still deeply worried about this matter. "That's right, she only has this one family member left. If something happens to her niece, how can she face her deceased brother?"
"I think she must have suffered some kind of shock, which is why she became withdrawn." I'm not saying the imperial physician's diagnosis was wrong, but shock and mental illness are strictly different. A shock isn't
as simple as just being unable to think straight.
"Yes, Dou Dou, you truly are someone close to Ling Feng. Later, in desperation, I went to great lengths and finally found the legendary 'ageless doctor.' He's an
extraordinary person ; he didn't say anything, only that he wanted to take Yue'er away. I was reluctant to part with her, but seeing Yue'er's dazed state, my heart softened, so I agreed." So the Empress has
such a story. Hearing the Empress Dowager say this, it means she has Ling Feng as her senior brother.
"And then what happened?" She should be better now, but how did she become Empress, and why did she get sick? I don't think the Empress seems ill at all.
"Empress Dowager, you don't need to worry. Children and grandchildren have their own blessings. How long can you worry about them? Look, aren't they doing well now? But the matter with my sister-in-law's illness is
like " After talking for so long, why haven't you mentioned the rumors circulating outside about the Empress's impending death? That's a bit strange.
"Ah, it's all because of Haoran. He's been smart and competitive since he was little. So, when he went on a mission to 'Shuoyue Kingdom,' he went along too, saying he wanted to dampen 'Shuoyue Kingdom's' arrogance. But
soon after he left, Yue'er became less and less talkative, and quieter and quieter. Eventually, she stopped eating and drinking, and stopped talking altogether. This worried me because she couldn't eat or sleep well.
I had no other choice but to order someone to inform the Emperor and also to find her senior brother." Oh, I see. I was wondering why.
"Mother, everything's alright now. The Emperor is back, and my sister-in-law is fine. I think you should worry less from now on. Look at the flowers and exercise. When
you're bored , I'll tell you stories. Or you can look after the children. It's actually quite happy to be like an ordinary person." When I'm old, I won't go anywhere. I'll get
a rocking chair and rock back and forth, hehe, just thinking about it makes me happy.
"Sigh!" Hmm, what a wonderful life! Why the sigh?
"Mother, what's wrong?" I asked, puzzled.
"Dou Dou, you don't know, what I'm most worried about right now isn't the Empress's problem, but that I, Hao Ran, have no children. What if I kick the bucket one day?
How will I face the ancestors of 'Ri Xi Kingdom'?" Wait, in the TV dramas, aren't emperors always surrounded by children? How come Hao Ran has none? Could it be that all the concubines
have problems? Hehe, that's definitely impossible. It must be Hao Ran's problem. I looked at the worried Empress Dowager and decided to repay her. They've bestowed upon me the title of princess
and are even offering me a house. It wouldn't be right not to reciprocate.
"Mother, let me tell you something. Isn't Ling Feng a divine physician? I'll have him give my brother a proper check-up," I whispered in the Empress Dowager's ear. I figured she wouldn't want anyone else
to hear.
"Dou Dou, you mean...?" The Empress
Dowager's eyes widened in surprise at my words. "Shh, keep your voice down. Don't worry, Mother, leave this to me. I won't let anyone else know," I winked at the Empress Dowager. The Empress Dowager gave me a deep look and then
smiled. She seemed genuinely grateful to have taken me in as her adopted daughter.
By the time I helped the Empress Dowager back to her 'Phoenix Residence,' it was already late, so I didn't linger. I also refused any escorts, confidently stating that I knew the way, and ended
up walking back alone with a lantern. Hehe, of course, things started to go wrong as we walked. However, this was a good opportunity to admire the palace of the 'Sunset Kingdom' and see how it
differed from that of the 'New Moon Kingdom'. Unfortunately, it was pitch black and I couldn't see anything. Ugh, the light from this lantern was really weak.
As I walked, I nervously looked back. Damn it, why did I feel like someone was watching me? I couldn't see anyone, and I couldn't hear any footsteps, but the feeling was so
strong . Oh my god, could it be something like that? Thinking this, I broke out in a cold sweat. I quickened my pace.
"If you go any further, you'll fall into the lake!" Suddenly, I heard a voice that startled me so much that I threw the lantern away.
"Who are you? Don't come any closer! I'm very powerful!" I started shouting
, my voice booming. "I saved your life, why are you acting like a bad guy?" He laughed after saying that. At that moment, I recognized his voice—it was Hao Ran. Wasn't he with the Queen
? Why was he following me again? But then I immediately understood why he said he saved me. Because I saw the lantern I just threw was now floating on the water like a small boat,
drifting further and further away.
"Hey, you knew there was a lake ahead, why didn't you say so sooner? What if I had fallen in?" So many innocent people have died like that.
"How could I let you fall in?" Haoran said casually, as if it wasn't his own fate.
"And you, why did you make a lake in the yard? No wonder women in TV shows and novels like to drown themselves. I think maybe it was an accident, who knows?"
"Hey, Haoran, are you still there, Haoran?" I was babbling on and on in the dark. Haoran didn't say a word. A breeze blew by the lake, oh my god.
Had I spoken to the hearts of some people who had accidentally fallen into the water, and they were coming to express their agreement?
"DouDou, I'm here. What's wrong?" Haoran saw that my voice had gone from being enthusiastic to a little timid. He quickly rushed to my side and pulled me into his arms.
"It's okay, you're still here." "You're such a character, why haven't you said a word? I thought you'd disappeared!" I nestled naturally into his arms, feeling quite pleased.
"What if I disappeared? Would you be scared?" Hao Ran asked, his voice full of emotion, as if there was a hidden meaning.
"Of course! What if a female ghost climbed out of the river?" I wasn't sure if I was overthinking it, so I decided to be honest and tell him my true thoughts.
"With me here, you're not afraid of female ghosts?" What's wrong with Hao Ran? He seemed to want me to agree with him. Suddenly, I had a strong
feeling that he actually wanted me to say that I would be scared if he disappeared. He also wanted me to say that as long as he was by my side, I felt safe and fearless.
"Of course! Ghosts are afraid of evil people, brother!" I refused to agree with him. He had lied to me, and I hadn't forgiven him yet. I deliberately added
that .
"Dou Dou, why did you do that?" Perhaps I've done something wrong, but you've seen my face, you know we're destined to be together. If that's the case, what's the point of what you're doing
? Or are you just lying to me, telling me all sorts of lies?" Haoran's emotions flared up because of my address of "Royal Brother." He pushed me away from his embrace
, instead placing his hand on my shoulder, staring into my eyes and roaring, making his anger crystal clear.
Through the moonlight, I saw Haoran's eyes gleaming; perhaps from anger, perhaps from heartbreak, he was filled with sorrow. I didn't know what to say for a moment.
Haoran was right; although he lied to me, he was destined to be my husband. What was the point of what I did
? "I…" I opened my mouth, wanting to apologize, but the words wouldn't come out. I was only concerned with my momentary displeasure and triumph, without considering the serious consequences. He was the emperor,
high above us ; our being together was already difficult enough. Now, because of what I did, we've become siblings, undoubtedly adding another obstacle between us. Now that it's all happened
, there's no point in saying anything.
"DouDou, we should go." "Just as I was wondering how to break the silence, a voice appeared.
'Ling Feng!' I called out the name of the person who appeared, not because I was happy to see him, but because I was very grateful that he appeared at this moment and rescued me from this
awkward situation. However, Hao Ran obviously didn't hear it that way. After hearing my cheerful greeting, Hao Ran tightened his grip on my shoulder
.
'Ah, it hurts!' Hao Ran's strength was too great; I felt like my bones were about to break from his grip.
'Let her go!' I felt a gust of cold wind, and then Ling Feng appeared in front of me, his voice as cold as the night wind.
Hao Ran didn't let go of me, but instead pulled me into his arms and held me tightly. I don't know if my senses are accurate, but I felt that Hao Ran was holding me very tightly now, but he was
carefully controlling the pressure, as if afraid of hurting me.
'He's mine!'" "Haoran's answer was very firm, without the slightest hesitation.
Chapter 119 "Princess" Becomes "Imperial Consort"
"She's mine!" Haoran's answer was very firm, without the slightest hesitation.
"Let her go, she's mine." Ling Feng's aura was also quite imposing.
"We've known each other for a long time, but you've only known each other for a few days." Haoran was quite cunning, actually using this trick.
"No matter what, Doudou is my personal maid, you know what that means, right?" Well, this Ling Feng was even more impolite, actually playing with ambiguity.
"You! Hehe, don't forget, Doudou is in my arms right now." It seemed that Haoran was angered by Ling Feng, but he immediately laughed again.
"Let go of my woman!" Ling Feng didn't waste any words this time and got straight to the point. But I just can't understand it. They're all blatantly lying, aren't they afraid I'll expose them? And
this is ancient times, they all talk like they have some kind of ambiguous relationship with me. If others find out, they'll definitely scold me.
"Dou Dou will soon be my concubine, please watch your words." Hao Ran's reason for refusing was quite righteous.
"Is that so? But now, please release your sister!" These two are truly evenly matched. I've only ever seen women argue before, it's just about raising their voices and
seeing who's the fiercest. Today, seeing men argue has shown me that men argue to see who's calmer.
"Dou Dou, tonight you'll sleep in the 'Sun Palace,' and tomorrow I'll make you the 'Sun Consort.'" Hao Ran shifted his target to me.
"Dou Dou, I don't think you're the kind of person who goes back on their word. I'll state my demands now." "Ling Feng reacted quickly, still thinking of this at a time like this.
"What are your requirements?" This matter is more important, lest after we're married, he gets upset and makes me divorce all eight of my husbands besides him. That wouldn't be good.
It's better to deal with this sooner rather than later.
"You think that just because you made her not marry me, I really can't marry her? Ling Feng, you underestimate me." "Ling Feng, she hasn't even said anything yet, and Hao Ran has already guessed it.
"I don't want to force Dou Dou to marry anyone in the future. What's the point of forcing it?" Ling Feng's words were well said. It seems Hao Ran has made a mistake this time and is at a disadvantage.
"Ling Feng, then what are your requirements? It's so cold here. I don't want to stay here any longer." "Although watching the play is exciting, the time and place seem inappropriate
. The night wind is already cold, especially by the lake. I just don't understand, I can feel the cold even in Haoran's arms, yet they're just standing there like they don't
feel anything.
" My request is simple: come with me tonight. Ling Feng said, extending her hand to me. In the moonlight, Ling Feng looked almost unrealistically beautiful. If Haoran hadn't been
holding me , I probably would have rushed over already.
"Okay." "It's so simple, it would be foolish not to agree. Isn't this a great bargain?"
But Haoran's arm around mine showed no sign of letting go. Sigh. I just don't understand, what difference does it make where we go? Are they really going to devour me? It's so strange. If it were me, I'd
be running away from such a huge problem, but they're here fighting over it. I don't know if I'm too charming, or if they're just fighting for the sake of fighting, not caring what they're fighting for.
"Haoran, don't be like that. I promised him. I hate lying the most. If I promise someone and don't keep my word, isn't that the same as lying? You know I hate
being lied to. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you, so people won't lie to others." My words not only stated my intention to go with Ling Feng, but also indirectly made him...
"Fine, you're going with him today." Haoran let go
of me. Damn, it was so cold coming out of his arms.
"Let's go." Lingfeng took my hand and turned to leave before I could say goodbye to Haoran.
"Doudou." I had only taken two steps when I heard Haoran call my name. I immediately turned around. He seemed to have something to say to me.
"Doudou. I, Beigong Haoran, swear to the sun and moon that I will never lie to you again in this life." From my angle, because of the backlight, I couldn't see Haoran's expression clearly, but I
could see his hand raised to the sky, and I could tell how serious he was. It seemed to come from the bottom of his heart. His words brought a smile to my face.
And so, Lingfeng and I slowly walked out of Haoran's sight.
"Will you marry him?" Lingfeng only asked me this one question the whole way.
"Yes." And that was the only word I said the whole way.
I quietly followed Lingfeng, turning east and west, until we arrived at a house whose name I couldn't make out. I guessed this must be Ling Feng's residence in the palace; I was certain it wasn't the Empress's 'Moon Palace
.'
"You'll stay here tonight," Ling Feng said, leading me to a room before turning to leave.
"And you?" I quickly called after him.
"I'll stay next door. Call me if you need anything." Ling Feng was clearly in a bad mood, but he didn't show it. He must have been bothered by the answer I'd given him on the way. I
knew the consequences of that answer, but I really didn't want to lie to him. He said forcing things was pointless, so lying was the same
. "Okay," I tried to explain, but I didn't know where to begin. Back when I only knew a few people, I could talk to Hao Ran all night long; now, I probably couldn't explain it even in three days and three nights.
Oh well, I'll talk about it another time. Or maybe I'll just wait until all nine of my husbands are together and then we can talk it all out. Heh, that's a good idea.
Later, the more I thought about it, the more I realized I was overthinking things. Ling Feng and I had just met; no matter what, he couldn't possibly like me. I wanted to see how the two of them clashed; maybe it wasn't for
my sake. Yeah, maybe it's for that beautiful Empress. Yes, yes, that makes sense. The more I think about it, the smarter I feel. But then I ended up justifying myself. Ugh, with them
like this, what am I supposed to do? When will they all obediently come into my arms?
I thought I'd have insomnia, but the palace is the palace. Believe me, the beds in the palace are so comfortable. And you just want to fall asleep as soon as you close your eyes,
the kind of sleep where you don't even want to wake up. Hehe, the best part is that there are no roosters crowing in the palace. So I slept until noon.
"Imperial decree, Long Doudou, receive the decree." Damn, why is there this scene the moment I opened my eyes? I quickly crawled out of the warm bed. It wouldn't be good if they broke in.
If it were my husband, it wouldn't matter, but being surrounded on the bed by a bunch of eunuchs is really unacceptable.
Knock knock knock knock knock knock knock
. What the hell is the rush? Can't they wait until someone's dressed?
"DouDou, your imperial decree." Hey, it wasn't a eunuch standing at the door, it sounded like Ling Feng's voice. Looks like the eunuch wasn't going to barge in. No rush then.
"Oh, I know, tell them to wait a bit." After calling out, I started getting ready.
"DouDou, I brought you a change of clothes." I thought Ling Feng would leave immediately, but it seems he still had something to do. Hehe, that's good, I get new clothes to wear. I quickly
ran to open the door, and sure enough, he was standing there, holding a paper package.
"Thanks, I'll be right out." I smiled at Ling Feng at the door, took the clothes, and closed the door.
Once inside, I opened the package and saw a super pretty, super pretty pink dress. Hehe, wearing this, I definitely won't look like a maid, I'll definitely look like a princess! Hehe, right, I
almost forgot, I'm not just looking like a princess, I'm already a princess, and the Empress Dowager herself bestowed upon me the title of 'Princess Chang Le'.
I quickly grabbed my clothes, ready to change, but then I saw there were more clothes inside. Heh, Ling Feng is so thoughtful! He not only prepared an outer coat, but even underwear (a bellyband
and panties). I wonder if Ling Feng bought them for me. If so, his expression when he went to buy them must have been priceless. Lost in thought, I stripped naked
and put on all the new clothes one by one.
I glanced at the matching headdress, held it up on my head, and put it away. I'm not good at fussing with these things. I just combed my hair as usual, tied up
the part above my ears, and made sure I looked presentable.
"Hey, Ling Feng, you're still here!" I opened the door, and there he was, still standing there.
"Dou Dou." Ling Feng's expression seemed a bit off. What's wrong? Could something have happened?
"Ling Feng, is there something you want to say?" I looked up at him with concern. What's wrong? Did he have a fight with his sweetheart? (I cleverly assumed the
Empress was Ling Feng's sweetheart.)
"Miss Long, you're awake! Come and receive the imperial decree. This servant is in a hurry to go back and report." Honestly, this eunuch really doesn't know how to pick his timing. But, considering
how , I won't argue with him. Actually, receiving the decree first is fine. Let's see what Hao Ran is up to now. There will be plenty of time to ask Ling Feng about it later.
"Okay, I'll receive it. Do I need to kneel?" I took a step towards him nonchalantly.
"No need, no need. The Emperor has decreed that Miss Long can just stand and listen." Heh, this eunuch is so obsequious, even more disgusting than me.
"Then please read it quickly, Master. Aren't you in a hurry to go back and report?" I didn't want to waste any more time talking to him.
"By the grace of Heaven, the Emperor decrees: Long Doudou is of pure and kind nature, gentle and generous, and deeply favored by the Empress Dowager and the Emperor. On the tenth day of the eleventh month of the seventh year of the reign of Emperor Taizong, Long Doudou is hereby conferred the title of 'Consort Yue' and
granted the 'Mandarin Duck Palace'. Imperial decree." Damn, I'm like Yue Fei and Qin Hui! What is this all about? Haoran has gone mad! He just wants to marry her like that? Did he propose? Besides, wasn't I just
made a princess by the Empress Dowager?
How did I suddenly become a concubine? "Hey, you must have misread it. It should be 'conferred the title of princess,' right? The Empress Dowager said it herself yesterday. How did it become a concubine? Look again, look more carefully." I knew I couldn't possibly be mistaken ,
but something still felt off.
"Consort Yue is truly joking. How could this be wrong? The imperial decree is left for you. Please change your clothes and then thank this servant." This little eunuch must have thought I was overjoyed, hence his
incredulous expression. But heaven knows how unwilling I was. Yes, I am going to marry him, but I don't want to be one of the three thousand beauties in the harem.
"What are you changing for? Hurry up and take me to see the Emperor!" Even if these clothes are the most beautiful, I don't want to wear them. I want to figure out what he's up to first.
"Your Highness, this seems unreasonable..." This eunuch really talks too much, what's this about reasonableness?
"By order of the Empress Dowager, summon Princess Chang Le to Phoenix Residence immediately. Princess Chang Le, please." I just woke up, how come it's so lively already? And this news from the Empress Dowager...
"Isn't she too well-informed? The imperial edict just arrived, and she's already taking action.
" "Princess Chang Le, it's best not to keep the Empress Dowager waiting too long." It seems what's
meant to be will be. But I feel the odds are against me, so I'll make a last-ditch effort. "But I still need to see the Emperor." Ugh, using my son as an excuse probably won't work. So my voice lacked confidence.
"Princess Chang Le, don't worry. The Emperor is currently at Phoenix Residence." I had no choice but to follow. Hearing that the Emperor was there put my mind at ease.
At least I wouldn't be in mortal danger. I glanced back at Ling Feng. His eyes were deep and complex, as if he had a thousand words to say to me. I wanted to hear them too
, but time didn't allow it. So, as I said before, I'll wait until there's time.
"Let's go." After saying that, I followed the Empress Dowager's people into the unpredictable future.
I thought the Empress Dowager would be furious or vehemently oppose it. But something unexpected happened. When she saw me, her smile was almost radiant
.
"Dou Dou, you've come! Come, come, sit down." The Empress Dowager's unexpected action puzzled me. I secretly glanced at Hao Ran, but he just smiled at
me. His smile gave me a feeling that I was being manipulated. I really didn't know what he was up to that could make the Empress Dowager act so strangely.
"Mother, what's going on?" I'd better figure out the situation first. I felt uneasy and scared.
"Dou Dou, you see, I didn't know you two knew each other so long ago, and that the Emperor had long admired you. If I had known earlier, I wouldn't have made you a princess. But thankfully,
this news is only known to our own people and hasn't spread yet." What did the Empress Dowager mean by this? Could it be that she approves of me being with the Emperor? That doesn't seem right. I just
felt that Hao Ran had said something to the Empress Dowager during this time. Otherwise, things would never have turned out this way. I haven't forgotten the eunuch's hostile look when he went to deliver the decree.
"Mother, it's me." I don't want to be a concubine. I don't want to compete with a bunch of women for my husband. I can't even handle my own husbands, how can I have time to compete with others?
"Dou Dou, Mother knows she's forcing you, but Mother has no choice. Good child, since you call me Mother, I'll reluctantly agree. I promise,
I won't let anyone bully you in the harem." Looking at the Empress Dowager's sad appearance, I really didn't know what to say. What did that damned Hao Ran say to the Empress Dowager? I have to find a chance
to ask her clearly.
"Mother, Lord Xiahou is still waiting for me in the Imperial Study. I'll leave with Dou Dou for now." That damned Hao Ran, it seems he doesn't want me to stay here any longer. "Mother
, I'll stay here and have lunch with you first. I haven't eaten breakfast yet, and I really can't walk anymore." The more they tell me not to stay here, the more I'll stay. Thinking about it, it makes sense. Instead of
asking Haoran what he said to the Empress Dowager, it's better to ask the Empress Dowager herself; she's much easier to deal with than Haoran.
"Doudou, don't disturb your mother's rest." Sure enough, Haoran's smile vanished immediately upon hearing this.
"It's alright, let Doudou stay and keep me company. You go about your business; do you think I'll bully her? I wouldn't bear to." The Empress Dowager said, holding my hand tightly
. She seemed genuinely pleased.
"Then I'll take my leave." Haoran nodded to the Empress Dowager and turned to leave, giving me a warning look before he left. I stuck
my tongue out at him, indicating I wasn't buying it.
"Mother, what's going on? How did the princess suddenly become an imperial concubine?" As soon as Haoran left, I voiced my question. I looked so innocent, as if
I had no reason to do it.
"I have no choice," the Empress Dowager said helplessly.
"Mother, please don't be angry with me. I really don't know what happened." I quickly made myself sound innocent; it was
safer .
"I know. I was very angry when I first heard this news. But after hearing the Emperor's words, I felt sorry for you." See? I knew the Empress Dowager had
been fooled by Haoran.
"Empress Dowager, what did the Emperor say that made you change your mind?" I felt there must be a big secret behind this.
"Alas, Dou Dou, I know this is unfair to you and Ling Feng, but my son told me that he will not allow any woman to bear children for our 'Sun and Moon Kingdom' except for you. I
had no choice." Damn Haoran, I knew he would resort to underhanded tactics. But he was really clever, managing to find the Empress Dowager's weakness.
"Empress Dowager, Dou Dou is a helpless orphan, her life is worthless, it doesn't matter what happens to her, but what about the Empress? Won't she be heartbroken?" Although I exaggerated a bit,
I was genuinely worried that the Empress might do something rash.
"Since she married the emperor, sharing her husband with others was already destined. Over the years, she should have gotten used to it. Let's go, let's go eat."
It seems my stomach sensed my unease this time, as it didn't even growl when it heard we were going to have imperial food. Naturally, I ate the whole meal absentmindedly. After finishing the meal, I still
felt like something was about to happen, so I decided to go to the 'Moon Palace' to see if the Empress was really as indifferent as the Empress Dowager said, and had long been used to it.
Chapter 120 I'll also be a "wicked sister-in-law"
"Ling Feng, you like me, right? I'll give you my body now, come and take it." Dou Dou had just reached the entrance of the 'Moon Palace' when she heard the Empress's unbelievable words coming from inside.
"Junior sister, I think you've misunderstood." Ling Feng's voice was cold, without a trace of emotion.
"Misunderstood? You don't like me? Then why were you willing to come down from the mountain for me? You've never left there, have you?" The Empress's voice was crazy, making it impossible to believe that she was the
same person as the gentle Lin Daiyu she usually was.
"You're overthinking it. Master sent me. Since you're not sick, it's time for me to take my leave." I knew it; the Empress didn't look sick at all, she was just faking it. But
that's not important. The important thing is to leave. Could it be for real? Why would he run back to some mountain? Where am I supposed to find him?
"He doesn't like her, and you don't like me either. Haha, he likes her, so do you like her too? Talk! Does your silence mean you're tacitly agreeing? Why, why,
why do you all like her? What's so good about her? Is she prettier than me? I'm not reconciled, I'm not reconciled! I'm going to kill her! As long as she's dead, Haoran will still be mine!" Hearing the Empress's
frantic self-talk, I felt a little sorry for her.
The first half sounded like movie dialogue, quite funny. But hearing Haoran's name in the second half sent a chill down my spine. Damn it, is he going to kill
me?
"Yue'er, that's enough! If you dare hurt her, I won't let you get away with it." Ling Feng's voice was full of warning. Heh, it seems he cares about me quite a bit.
"You really like her, you really like her. Why doesn't anyone like me? Why?" The Empress's sobs made my heart ache so much that I didn't even think about
what she was saying.
*Bang!*
Who rushed out without warning? I rubbed my nose and looked up. It was Ling Feng! And strangely, why was he blushing when he saw me?
"You…" Before I could finish speaking, Ling Feng grabbed my hand and quickly left the 'Moon Palace'. He walked so fast, as if this were some kind of dragon's den, where monsters might appear at any moment
.
"Why did you drag me here? I haven't even seen the Empress yet." Ling Feng finally let go of my hand at a pavilion by the lake.
"Dou Dou, you heard the conversation just now, right?" Ling Feng's tone was strange.
"Yes. I heard it, but I didn't mean to. She was just too loud." I wouldn't admit to eavesdropping.
"That's not the point. The point is, you need to stay away from the Empress from now on." Ling Feng's voice was so serious.
"You mean, the Empress really wants to kill me? Haha, she was just saying that out of anger. The Empress isn't that kind of vicious person at all." I said, laughing as I spoke. Honestly, she only
said it when she was angry or emotional, just something she said offhand.
"You don't understand Yue'er. Just be careful." Ling Feng's words really didn't seem like a joke, which suddenly made me feel uneasy. Could the Empress really want to kill
me?
"Ling Feng, what about you? Are you really leaving?" I hadn't forgotten about this.
"Master told me to go back in ten days. I don't know why, but I don't want to disobey Master's wishes. So I'll be in the palace for these ten days. If you need anything, you can come
to my residence. I'm leaving." This Ling Feng really left just like that. He dragged me all this way here, only to say a few words. Really!
"Your Highness, Consort Yue, this servant has finally found you." I was sitting by the lake, just starting to feel a bit relaxed when I was disturbed again. It seems I'm not destined for leisure.
"Who are you and what do you want?" I asked, kicking my feet in the lake water.
"Oh dear, Your Highness, if anyone sees you barefoot, it will be terrible!
Put them on, put them on quickly!" The palace maid didn't answer my question, but rushed to my side as if I were about to jump into the river. Before I could react, she took out her handkerchief to
wipe my feet, then put on my socks and shoes. Her movements were swift and smooth, as if she did this kind of work often.
"Hehe." Seeing her relieved expression after putting my shoes on, I couldn't help but laugh.
"Ah! Your Highness, please forgive me, this servant was rude." Hearing my laughter, the palace maid was so frightened that she quickly knelt on the ground.
"Get up quickly, who are you?" I helped her stand up with me. I couldn't help but stretch and loosen my limbs.
"This servant is Xi'er from 'Yuanyang Palace'." Xi'er, what a nice name.
"Do you need something from me?" She wouldn't just come to chat for no reason.
"Ah! I forgot, Consort Yue, hurry up! The Emperor has been waiting for you at the 'Mandarin Duck Palace' for quite some time." Hehe, seeing Xi'er's sudden panic, I couldn't help but chuckle
. It seems having a maid like this in the future isn't so bad; at least it won't be boring.
"Then let's hurry back. Let's run and see who gets there first. If you lose, I'll tell the Emperor about you!" It's been a long time since I exercised; running is a good idea.
"Ah, Consort Yue!" Xi'er exclaimed in surprise, clearly not expecting this move.
"Ready, go!" With that, I ran towards the path Xi'er had come from. As I ran, I called out to Xi'er, "Run! If you win, I won't just not
tell on , I'll even have the Emperor reward you! Hurry, hurry!" Under my encouragement, Xi'er gradually relaxed and quickly caught up.
"Oh my, Xi'er, you run really fast!" I was clearly in the lead, but Xi'er overtook me in no time. It seems that not exercising for a long time really has its drawbacks.
"Hehe, Your Highness, hurry up!" Xi'er seemed completely unfazed once she started running .
"Don't be so smug, I'll catch up with you soon." I said, rushing towards Xi'er. But catching up is not something you can do so
easily. I just watched helplessly as Xi'er entered the courtyard of the 'Mandarin Duck Palace'. It seems I've reached my destination. I'll make a final sprint so I won't lose too embarrassingly. So I sped up and rushed in.
"Hey, who is it? Don't block my way. Hehe, Haoran, it's you." I was about to enter the gate when Haoran blocked my way. Luckily, he was prepared and grabbed my shoulder, otherwise he would
have bumped into .
"Stop running, look, you're all sweaty." Haoran gently wiped my sweat while giving Xi'er, who was trembling beside him, a glare.
"Don't be so fierce, you've scared her." I couldn't help but complain. I had just promised Xi'er a reward if she won, and now, instead of getting the reward, I got
glared at by Haoran. Will Xi'er ever dare play with me again? No way, I have to keep my promise. I can't break my word to my subordinates on my first day at the 'Mandarin Duck Palace'.
"Okay, I'll listen to you. Tell me, where have you been all this time?" Damn, Haoran doesn't seem used to not wearing a face mask, and his gentle demeanor feels a bit awkward.
"Hey, you think that's enough? You scared her, you need to give her some 'compensation for emotional distress'." I openly asked Xi'er for a reward.
"What?" Haoran looked at me with a smile, as if wanting to see what I was up to now.
"You're not that stupid, are you?" He definitely knew what I meant, but I just wouldn't say it outright; saying it outright would ruin the fun.
"Come inside, let's talk inside." Haoran said, pulling me towards the house. I was annoyed; the stingy emperor was so slow even when giving a gift. But once inside
, I couldn't believe his stinginess. Good heavens! There were a bunch of people standing there, each carrying a tray covered with a red cloth. Without even opening them, I knew
Haoran had given them to me. Hehe, great! I'm rich this time!
"These are all for you. See if you like them. You can give a few of the ones you don't like to the palace maid as 'comfort,' what do you think?" Haoran
was overjoyed to see my eyes light up.
"Hey, you gave these to me. If I give them away, wouldn't that be a reward from you?" I wasn't really that stingy; I was just teasing him.
"How about I give you another surprise?" Haoran didn't mince words, immediately having a plan.
"What a big gift!" Although I don't need that many treasures, judging from Haoran's confident look, there should be something fun.
"Bring it up." As soon as Haoran said that, my heart skipped a beat. Could it be what I'm thinking? I stared at Haoran with wide eyes, full of questions, but
Haoran just smiled faintly at me and didn't say anything.
*Sound of a whisper*
"It really is Da Bao!" Hearing Da Bao's familiar voice, I exclaimed in surprise and rushed out. Then I hugged Da Bao's nose tightly.
*Sound of a whisper*
Da Ding picked me up with his nose and shook me back and forth, making me giggle.
Suddenly, a little eunuch-like man rushed in, looking very anxious. He whispered a few words in Hao Ran's ear, and I saw Hao Ran's eyebrows furrow noticeably.
"Hao Ran, what happened?" I said, patting Da Bao's nose. Da Bao cleverly put me down.
"Nothing, you play, I'll go check," Hao Ran said, preparing to leave.
"What is it? Why are you in such a hurry? Is it a matter of state or a personal matter?" I grabbed him, looking up into Hao Ran's eyes. I thought, if it's a matter of state, I'll let go
; if it's a personal matter, I'll ask what happened.
"It's..."
"Dou Dou, it really is you! Tell me, do you have any news about Zi Luo?"
Before Hao Ran could finish speaking, the answer came out on its own. It turned out to be Bei Gong barging in, making me think it was some matter of state.
"Zi Luo, you still remember someone like that? You're living the high life now, surrounded by women on both sides, aren't you?" That bastard, daring to make Zi Luo cry, if I don't teach him a lesson and avenge Zi Luo,
I'm not worthy of being Zi Luo's sister.
"Dou Dou, you know where Zi Luo is, right? Please tell me, okay?" Judging from Bei Gongzheng's expression, he seems to have truly realized his feelings for Zi Luo, but I
don't want to him get away with it so easily. I can't stand men who, when they can't get the woman they love, become intoxicated by her beauty. And then they have the audacity to say they're unmoved. True remembrance, at its most basic
, should be about remaining chaste and pure.
"Is 'Dou Dou' something you can call me?" I said softly.
"You…" Bei Gongzheng clearly didn't expect me to be so aggressive.
"What do I know? I know where Zi Luo is." I looked up at him smugly, thinking, "So what? Let's see what you can do to me. Go ahead and bite me if you dare.
" "Royal Sister-in-law." Bei Gongzheng called her "Royal Sister-in-law" with 'gritting his teeth'.
"Hmm, that's more like it." I had the typical smug look of a petty person who had gotten his way. Looking at Bei Gongzheng's expression, it was hard to believe he had ever liked me and even wanted to marry
me.
"Sister-in-law, please tell me where Zi Luo is, okay?" Bei Gongzheng was now absolutely humble and subservient. But I wasn't going to let it go so easily. Taking
an inch and then a mile , that's what you call a petty person like me. Haha, I finally got this opportunity, I had to teach him a lesson to vent my anger. The more hard-won it was, the more he would
cherish Zi Li in the future.
"No way!" I said those two words with absolute force.
"You, what do you want?" I could see that Bei Gongzheng was barely containing his anger. Unfortunately for him, I had his older brother, the Emperor, as my backer, so I wasn't afraid of him.
"Well, it's dinner time, I'm hungry. Wait until I finish dinner before you come back." I said in a relaxed tone.
"You!" Bei Gongzheng was clearly about to lose his temper.
"You need to calm down, okay? Remember, 'impulse is the devil.' By the way, if you're not leaving, just wait here. I haven't prepared any food for you." After saying that, I
turned around and walked into the house smugly. Heh, this time I'll make this kid suffer a bit. Zi Luo suffered much more than him.
"Dou Dou, isn't this a bit too much?" Hao Ran followed me in.
"Hey, don't plead for him. If you have a problem with it, you can go outside and stand with him. Daring to bully my sister, this is not excessive at all." I turned away, as if I would kick him out if he said another word
.
"I have no problem with it, I'll stay here and eat with you." Hao Ran obviously knew what it meant to be 'discreet'.
"Where did everyone go? And when will the food be served? I'm starving." I originally wanted to find someone to get me food, but there was no one there, so I could only
complain to Hao Ran.
"I know you don't like being waited on while you eat, so I had them serve you outside. Dinner should be here soon." Haoran reported to me like a steward,
and I nodded in satisfaction. It was good that they were keeping Beigong Zheng company outside, so he wouldn't be bored. Thinking about Beigong Zheng's terrible expression outside, I couldn't help but chuckle.
"By the way, Doudou, when did Zilu become a 'big sister'?" Haoran whispered, trying to probe my intentions, seeing my happiness.
"I can tell you, but if you betray me, I'll never speak to you again." I warned him first, to prevent any future betrayal. "
Doudou, actually, Zheng isn't like what you say. He's not addicted to alcohol and women. He has his reasons." Haoran's words piqued my interest; it seemed there was some inside story I didn't know.
But just as I was about to ask further, a bunch of people came to serve the food. After the food was ready and cleared away, I quickly ran to Haoran's side.
"What reasons?" Eating wasn't important now; figuring out the inside story was more appealing.
"He's engaged to General Wei's daughter. Normally, it wouldn't bother him, but ever since he learned of his feelings for Zi Luo, he's become very resistant to the marriage. That's why he's
made such a big fuss, letting everyone know he's a philanderer." Hao Ran's words suddenly made everything clear to me.
"You mean, he's waiting for the Wei family to break off the engagement?" I shouted out my thoughts.
"Keep your voice down." Hao Ran was clearly helpless against my sudden outbursts.
"The house is so big, no one outside can hear us. How do you know all this? Did Bei Gong Zheng tell you?" Although I said this, I lowered my voice, speaking as I
began to devour the food on the table. Mmm, this chicken leg is delicious! I haven't had such a good chicken leg in a long time. I couldn't help but take a couple more bites.
"Nobody told me, I guessed." Hao Ran's answer made me choke. Hao Ran quickly came over, patting me back to my feet and giving me soup, which saved
my life.
"Hey, you're really telling the truth? It was all just a guess after all!" I couldn't help but explode as soon as I felt better.
"DouDou, believe me. Even though I was just guessing, I promise it's absolutely true." Hao Ran looked very confident, but I didn't know if I could trust him. I
stared intently at him, and he returned my gaze with a gentlemanly composure. Okay, then I'll believe him this time.
"Haoran, you'll help me, right?" An idea formed in my mind.
"Yes." After glaring at me for a while, Hao Ran finally tapped his dragon head.
"Okay, let me ask you, how many daughters does the Wei family have?" I even stopped eating my chicken leg, wiped my hands, and looked very formal.
"Only one daughter." Hao Ran cooperated readily, it seemed he was really on my side.
"That's great, then we... how about it?" I looked at Hao Ran, who looked very proud.
"The idea is good, but what about General Wei?" The emperor was indeed the emperor, he got to the heart of the matter with just one sentence.
"Leave it to me. No one wants their children to be unhappy." My words made Haoran laugh; it seemed he admired my intelligence. Heh, I think I'm pretty
smart too.
"It's settled then, let him in." I said to Haoran with a smile. Hehe, I'm really looking forward to the rectification that Beigong Zheng will face next.

Chapter 121 Establishing Rules in the 'Mandarin Duck Palace'
"Sister-in-law, can you tell me where Zilu is now?" As soon as the dinner was cleared away, Beigong Zheng rushed in with a "whoosh." He seemed to have been
waiting impatiently .
I picked up the tea that Haoran had poured for me. I lifted the lid and elegantly smelled it. It smelled really good. When Beigong Zheng saw me like this, he clenched his fists and
took a deep breath. He was afraid that if he killed me in a fit of anger, he would never be able to find Zilu again.
"Brother." Beigong Zheng, having no other choice, had to ask Haoran for help.
"Zheng, I know what you're thinking. It's not that you can't see Zilu, but you must do so after you marry General Wei's daughter." Haoran's words made Beigong Zheng's already unpleasant
face even more unpleasant.
"Yes, Beigong Zheng, you're not young anymore. You should prioritize the country. So, after you get married, I'll tell you where Zilu is." I played the old-fashioned old man for once.
"Dou Dou, do you really think so too? I thought you were a different kind of woman, but I didn't expect this, haha, haha. I won't marry anyone but Zilu. I
won't marry anyone else. I was blind before, and I wronged her. This time, I will never let her be sad again. I must find her." This side of Beigong Zheng really moved me,
and I wanted to applaud him. But I had to have some professional ethics; the act had to continue, and if I gave myself away, everything would be ruined.
"Yes, yes, you're not in a hurry, you can take your time. But have you thought about it? Zilu is pregnant now. If you can find her immediately, that's fine, but if you wait, I
wonder Zilu's child will be calling someone else 'father'." My villainous image was truly classic; I wanted to slap myself.
"Ziluo won't." Beigong Zheng simply shouted. But there's a saying,
"The louder you are, the more guilty you seem." "Of course not, Zi Luo loves you so much, but if it's for the child, you say..." I deliberately left my sentence unfinished, letting Er'er figure out the rest.
"Fine, I agree to marry that woman, but don't expect me to treat her well. Dou Dou, no, sister-in-law. I was blind to have ever liked you. Just be a good princess
." After saying this, Bei Gongzheng turned and strode away without looking back—so cool! I almost burst out laughing, but I managed to hold it in. After a very long time,
when I felt like I was about to burst out laughing, I finally exploded, laughing uncontrollably.
Haha, I didn't expect my first acting to be so successful! Just thinking about how disdainful Bei Gongzheng looked at me makes me want to laugh again.
"Alright, Dou Dou. Drink some water, be careful not to laugh yourself sick." Hao Ran poured me another hot cup from its own.
"It was hilarious! Did you see that? His face turned blue just now, and the way he looked at me... if eyes could kill, I think I'd be dead a hundred times over by now. It was
so funny! Haha." I shared my feelings with Haoran while drinking.
"You always have so many tricks up your sleeve. Helping someone is one thing, but you have to be silly too." Although Haoran was talking about me, it sounded so affectionate to me. But then again, it's
only right that my husband dotes on me.
"Alright, you have to go to work tomorrow, to attend the morning court session. Go back to sleep first." I also need to go to bed early to think about how to talk to General Wei tomorrow. I need to prepare in advance and
come up several plans. I, Long Doudou, don't fight battles I'm not sure I can win. Only by considering all the possibilities can I avoid panicking and losing my composure.
"Doudou, I..." Haoran looked like he had something to say.
"What is it? Is there something else?" This Haoran, really, we're so close, just say what you want to say, why are you beating around the bush?
"No, I just wanted to say you should go to sleep early too." Ugh, I thought it was something serious, but it's just this trivial matter. Looks like she's worrying unnecessarily. I,
Long Doudou, am good at nothing but taking care of myself.
"Alright, I know. You can go now. I won't see you out." I pushed him to the door, waved goodbye, and resolutely closed the door, ignoring Haoran's repeated glances back.
Finally gone. Now I can devise tomorrow's battle plan. Thinking about this, I felt a surge of excitement, eager to try.
Bang bang bang
! Just as I sat down to begin my grand plan, someone knocked on the door again.
"Who is it?" I wanted to see who had such sharp eyes.
"Is Yuefei going to rest?" came Xi'er's voice from outside.
"Xi'er, come in. The door's unlocked." Ancient calligraphy brushes are so difficult to use; how can one person manage both writing and grinding ink? Xi'er's arrival is perfect for helping me.
With a creak, the door opened, and Xi'er came in carrying water. It looked like it was for my grooming.
"Xi'er, you've come at the perfect time. Come and grind the ink for me." I called to Xi'er as I sat down at the desk.
"Is Consort Yue writing a letter?" Xi'er put down what she was holding and came over.
"No, it is... well, never mind, I can't explain it to you clearly. Just grind the ink for me." If I tried to explain properly, I might not be able to explain it all night. So, I might as well
get straight to the point. And Xi'er was really obedient, not asking any questions, and dutifully grinding the ink for me.
"If General Wei doesn't agree, I'll appeal to his emotions and reason with him, letting him know that if his daughter marries Bei Gongzheng, she will definitely not have a good life. If he still doesn't agree, then...
what should I do, threaten or bribe..." I muttered to myself as I wrote down my thoughts on the paper, and soon the whole paper became a mess.
"Consort Yue, are you talking about General Wei's daughter's marriage to the Second Prince?" Xi'er, who was grinding the ink, suddenly interjected cautiously.
"Yes. How come you know Miss Wei, Xi'er?" I suddenly looked up, staring at Xi'er with eager eyes. Hehe, if I could persuade Miss Wei to give up, that would undoubtedly be the best
way . Of course, the premise was to see what kind of person she was before figuring out a plan. This is called: know yourself and know your enemy, and you will never be defeated.
"I don't know her, but..." I was a little discouraged when Xi'er said 'I don't know her,' but seeing Xi'er's troubled look, I knew she definitely knew something.
"Xi'er, come, this is what I promised to reward you today." I randomly grabbed a handful of jewels from the Emperor's gifts and stuffed them into Xi'er's arms. Hehe, this is called
bribery. But to my surprise, Xi'er was so frightened that she knelt on the ground.
"This servant dares not." Looking at Xi'er's trembling appearance, I was a little puzzled. Even if she knelt, she should be thanking me, why was she afraid instead? I didn't understand.
"Xi'er, this is what I rewarded you, why don't you accept it?" I knew that to deal with her, I had to change my approach.
"Really, really, you're giving this to me?" Xi'er seemed genuinely incredulous that I truly meant it.
"Of course it's for you. Come, get up. Don't kowtow so easily when no one's around. Here, take it. You can exchange it for some silver to buy food and necessities for the family. Here, this..."
"Here, you can share these with the other servants." I said, stuffing more jewelry into Xi'er's arms.
"Consort Yue, these were all bestowed upon you by the Emperor." Xi'er looked nervous, clearly hesitant.
"I know, since they were given to me, they're mine. Now that I'm giving them to you, they're yours. You left home at such a young age, I know you must be having a hard time. You can use
these to help your families; they're useless to me. Here, take them, don't say anything more." I tried to help them pack them up, but there were too many to carry. So I
grabbed a piece of yellow cloth and wrapped the things up. Then I stuffed the whole bundle into Xi'er's arms.
"Consort Yue..." Damn, is Xi'er going to cry? I can't handle that.
"Alright, Xi'er, I don't need these things in the palace. I'd be even more eager to have them given to you. By the way, where were we? Were we talking about Miss Wei?"
"Xi'er, how much do you know about Miss Wei's matter? I desperately need to know." After all that fuss, I finally got back to the point. But let me be clear, I wasn't really trying to
bribe her ; what I said was completely from the heart. I genuinely feel sorry for them, having to start working at such a young age.
"Consort Yue, this..." Xi'er still couldn't say anything; it seemed like a serious matter.
"What's wrong, Xi'er? Don't you believe me?" I looked at Xi'er with a hint of sadness.
"No, Consort Yue, may I ask you a question?" It seemed Xi'er was about to tell the truth, which made me feel quite accomplished.
"Go ahead and ask, it's alright." I said this, but in my heart, I was thinking that this question would determine whether Xi'er told the truth, and I had to answer
it .
"Consort Yue, please forgive Xi'er's rudeness." Xi'er actually knelt down as she spoke. I knew that only by doing this could she continue, so I didn't help her up but watched her, waiting for her
to ask the question herself. "Could you tell me why you want to talk about Miss Wei's matter?" " Or could you tell me, do you want her to marry the Second Prince?" Xi'er
asked, a little nervous, her voice trembling slightly, but her words came out without hesitation. It seemed Xi'er was a loyal and good girl.
"Xi'er, I understand what you mean, get up." After understanding Xi'er's meaning, I helped her up.
"Master," Xi'er looked at me, puzzled.
"Come, let me tell you..." And so, besides Haoran and me, my grand plan gained a third informant.
"Great! In that case, I have good news for you, Master!" Xi'er exclaimed.
"What news? Sit down." I pulled Xi'er to the table over there, and we sat down together.
"Master, Miss Wei has run away from her marriage." Haha, Xi'er's words made my eyes light up with joy. This was simply heaven's help, incredibly good news!
"How did you know?" This was a serious matter; we had to be careful and avoid any mistakes.
"This servant wouldn't dare to speak carelessly." Miss Wei's personal maid is my fellow villager and sister; we grew up together. "Beautiful! As the saying goes, when fellow villagers meet, tears well up in their eyes."
We've said everything, especially since she's my childhood friend. It seems this is pretty much a done deal.
"Okay, Xi'er, then you'll come with me tomorrow, and we'll do it like this..." Without even writing a plan, after a long talk with Xi'er, the matter was essentially
resolved in my bedroom.
*Knock knock knock
* "Come in, I'm up." Hehe, no doubt about it, I really did get up very early; today is the big day of the plan. How could I be lazy?
"Mistress Yue, you're up so early! Come and wash up." "It seems that after last night, Xi'er has already taken me for herself. You can tell from her way of addressing me. At first, she was awkward with
'Consort Yue,' then she sincerely called me 'Master,' and now she affectionately calls me 'Master Yue.' Hehe, that's great, I suddenly have a confidante.
'Xi'er, what time do you get up?' I felt I got up quite early, but Xi'er looked like she was up much earlier.
'Master Yue, there's a rule in the palace that we servants all get up at Mao Shi (5-7 AM).' Xi'er answered naturally while folding her blankets. '
Mao Shi?' What time is that?
'Mao Chu (early morning)' Xi'er explained in more detail. 'Mao Chu.
Mao Chu is one o'clock at night, which is called Zi Chu (early morning), and midnight is Zi Zheng (midnight). Then it's Chou Chu (early morning), Chou Zheng (midnight), Yin Chu (early morning), Yin Zheng (midnight), and then Mao Chu (early morning). That's equivalent to
: five o'clock!'" "While washing my face, I started calculating in my head. I remembered Xiaoyao telling me how time was calculated here. The bitter answer made me suddenly look up and exclaim, 'Master Yue, what's wrong?' My exclamation startled Xi'er. 'Xi'er, why do you get up so early every morning? What are you doing up there?' I felt so sorry for her. Isn't it cruel to a minor to not sleep so early? 'As a personal maid, I don't have
much to do. I just wash up and wait at the door with water for my mistress to get up. As for the other servants, they all have their own things to do.' Xi'er said it as if it were perfectly reasonable, as if there was nothing wrong with it. But I didn't think so at all. This was simply inhumane. If I couldn't control it, fine, but if I could, I absolutely wouldn't allow it. 'Xi'er, go and find all the servants in the 'Yuanyang Palace,' remember, all of them. No matter what they're busy with, put down what you're doing. Hurry up.'" "After I finished speaking, I picked up a towel to wipe my face. "Master Yue, is there something urgent? If it's just a reprimand, there's no need to rush." It seems Xi'er misunderstood; she must have thought I was going to establish rules. But that's not wrong ; I am going to establish rules. "You'll find out soon enough. Go quickly. Oh, and just have someone go and inform them. Come back quickly and help me get dressed. Don't forget it's everyone." I hadn't forgotten that I was going to the 'General's Mansion' later. Hearing me say that, Xi'er opened the door and went out. A little while later, the girl returned; she was really efficient. But seeing her panting, I couldn't help but feel sorry for her. Why was she working so hard? I'm not a bad master. Oh well, I won't say anything now. I'll talk about it . Until someone knocked on the door to say everyone had arrived, I didn't speak to Xi'er. Because Xi'er was obviously very afraid of my performance today. I didn't need to guess; she must have thought I was the bad master who established rules on the first day . "Let's go." After I finished speaking to Xi'er, I saw her quickly grab my arm. This made me laugh. "I'm not old yet, I can walk by myself. Let's hurry, don't keep them waiting." After saying this, I opened the door and left before Xi'er could react. However, Xi'er quickly caught up, constantly glancing at me, seemingly trying to figure out what I was thinking. But I just wouldn't look at her, letting her guess. "This servant greets Your Highness!" "This servant greets Your Highness!"

Good heavens, what a sight! It startled me. A whole mass of people kneeling, at least a hundred of them. How come I didn't know there were so many people in this 'Mandarin Duck Palace'? No, I
can't lose
face. I swallowed hard, then strode confidently to the front of this crowd and stood at attention. Wow, I really felt like a king ruling the world. "Raise your heads and look at me," I commanded. One by one, they raised their heads, cautiously eyeing me. Some of the more timid ones were even trembling.
After looking at the group, I took a deep breath and prepared to speak. Damn, this is really difficult. I don't get many opportunities to speak on a stage in modern times, let alone give a full-fledged speech.
"Listen up, everyone! Just as a country has its laws and a family has its rules, our 'Mandarin Duck Palace' also has its own. I'll explain them to you now. Make it clear first: what I say, you must
obey completely, no questions asked, and no bargaining. If anyone can't comply, they can leave; I won't stop them. Does everyone understand?" Excellent! I felt I performed
well, not stuttering at all. And my demeanor was commanding. I couldn't help but applaud myself inwardly.
"This servant understands."
"This servant understands."
It seemed everyone was terrified. I could finally let them breathe a sigh of relief; otherwise, another coward might faint, and I'd have no one to reason with.
"First, kowtow! I didn't make you get up today so you could kneel as much as you wanted. From now on, in my 'Yuanyang Palace,' except when the Empress Dowager comes to pay her respects, you are not allowed to kowtow.
You can simply lower your heads slightly to show respect.
Second, you are not allowed to get up so early anymore. You should get up at Chen Shi (7-9 AM). As for whether it's early Chen or mid-Chen, you can decide according to your duties.
Third, from now on, we are all family. If you have any problems or difficulties, you can come to me directly. I hope everyone can be harmonious in the future, that is, respect and love each other. As for anything else, I won't
force you to do anything else.
Can everyone do these things? If not, you can go to another palace. I will ask the Emperor to change your place. Don't be embarrassed to say so." He breathed a sigh of relief. It was really not easy.
He finally finished speaking.
"Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty." I noticed that his voice was louder this time than usual. It seems he is relieved.
"Alright, since you've expressed your gratitude, get up. From now on, anyone who doesn't follow the rules will be sent out of the 'Mandarin Duck Palace.' Okay, I won't tease you anymore, I have things to do
,
it's almost time. Xi'er, let's go." After getting everyone up, I prepared to head towards the General's Mansion. "Master, we are your sedan chair bearers, let us carry you out." Before I even stepped out, someone spoke up. I didn't want them to work hard, but thinking about it, going to the General's Mansion
without some pomp and circumstance seemed inappropriate.
"Alright, you can come with me. By the way, listen up, here's a fourth day: from now on, no servants are allowed to address me like everyone else. That's all for now, does
anyone have any questions?" I grew up under an education that emphasized equality for all, so this was very important to me.
I looked at everyone, and it seemed there were no problems. Since that's the case, then we can all disperse now.
"Since there are no problems, everyone can go about their business." These people definitely all have their own tasks to do.
"Master, do you need any servants to accompany you when you go out?" A little palace maid quickly changed her tune after I glanced at her. Looks like she's teachable. Hehe, she's still young, there's still time
to mold her a
capable leader. I don't want everyone around me to look like old fogies. "Alright, this time let's make a big show of it. Everyone who has nothing else to do can come along. First, to give me some support; second, everyone can get some exercise. Okay?" What was supposed to be just
the two of us, Xi'er, has turned into a hundred-person operation.
"Okay!" Again, they're still young, and they're all excited at the mention of going out. Their voices are practically lifting the roof off.
"Alright, everyone go back and get ready, then meet in the courtyard in a bit. Remember, everyone dress smartly." This time, I've become the leader of the group. Hehe
, just thinking about having so many people to play with in the future makes me incredibly happy.
I led Xi'er to stand in the courtyard of the 'Mandarin Duck Palace,' waiting for everyone to arrive one by one. I really do have a bit of the dashing air of Mu Guiying leading the army.
Youyou—Awooo—
Hmm, my eyes lit up. How could I have forgotten about Da Bao? Hehe, Da Bao is cheering me on too. I think this time we'll have a resounding victory. And indeed, that's exactly what happened. When my large group of people
arrived at the 'General Wei's Mansion,' I saw that the servants inside were even struggling to hold a cup of tea. Seeing this, I knew what was going on. It seems that Miss Wei has
n't returned.
"I didn't know Consort Yue was coming. Please forgive my lack of hospitality." What a powerful and imposing voice! I looked up. Sure enough, it was a
general . Look at his calm and composed demeanor. Truly worthy of being a general.
"General Wei, you're too kind. I arrived in a hurry." I smiled and stood up. Hehe, if I didn't have a trump card, I probably wouldn't have been able to take him down. But having a trump card is
a different story . After several rounds of our clashes, as I expected, I won. He finally agreed to act according to my plan.
After talking with General Wei, I learned a lesson: although he is a military general, he is also an ordinary father who cares about his children.
Chapter 122 'Clashing' with the Empress
As soon as I stepped out of the 'General Wei's Mansion,' I saw Bei Gong standing at the door.
"Why did you come to pick me up?" Ignoring the danger, I walked over to provoke him.
"Your Majesty, what a refined taste you have! Leaving the palace so early in the morning in such a grand and majestic manner." The sarcasm was so strong. However, I am magnanimous and won't stoop to his level. I'll keep track
of how . Hehe, after I marry my sister Zi Luo, I won't have to worry about not having a chance to get back at him. There will be plenty of guest rooms for him to sleep in.
"Hey, this isn't about your marriage. I wouldn't bother with anyone else." My words made Beigong Zheng grit his teeth in anger.
"This humble general greets Your Highness." General Wei stepped in to smooth things over at the right time.
"General Wei, as far as I know, your daughter is your own flesh and blood, and she lost her mother at a young age. I think you must love your only daughter very much." Heh, this damned Beigong Zheng
actually used this trick. Isn't he just trying to trick her into announcing the engagement? His wishful thinking is too much.
"Of course, I just saw it too. General Wei and Miss Wei are truly 'filial piety,' it's very touching. And Miss Wei is a rare beauty.
Would you like to go in and take a look?" This kid is trying to mess with me. I'm thousands of years more evolved than you.
"No need, I have other things to do." How rude of him, coming here and not even looking at his fiancée.
"Oh, wait a minute, the Emperor has already issued a decree that you will be married tomorrow. I imagine things are already getting busy at your residence, so you should hurry back and prepare." See how kind I am? Not only am I not
angry at his rudeness, but I'm also reminding him not to make any mistakes.
"You!" Good heavens, so people's eyes really can blaze with fire. To avoid getting burned, I'd better get out of there.
"General Wei, the wedding is so rushed, you should hurry up and prepare. If you don't have enough manpower, just let me know, and I'll have the Emperor send people to help." This is our in-laws
, I can't be negligent.
"Thank you for your concern, Consort Yue, I will handle it myself." As expected of a general who has seen many big occasions, he's different. Look how calm and composed he is. And look at this impetuous
Beigong Zheng, he's practically fuming with anger now. There's such a difference.
"Alright, then I won't bother General Wei any longer, the Emperor is waiting for my news." Finally, I'm going to return in triumph. "
This humble general respectfully sees off Consort Yue!"
"Respectfully sees off Consort Yue!"
Everyone knelt down in unison, and I quickly turned around and stepped into the sedan chair that had been waiting for a long time. Then, my entire 'Yuanyang Palace' and the whole family returned in the same grand procession as when we arrived
. Even more proudly and confidently than when they arrived, they looked every bit the triumphant trophy.
"What's going on? Why did it suddenly stop?" I felt the sedan chair stop as soon as we reached the palace gates.
"Oh dear, Consort Yue, you've finally returned! His Majesty has been waiting for you at the 'Mandarin Duck Palace' for quite some time." Ugh, I thought it was something serious. Waiting is fine. He doesn't
know what I've been up to anyway.
"Who are you? What are you doing here?" This person doesn't seem to be from my palace; I don't recognize him.
"Reporting to Consort Yue, this servant is Xiao Dezi, His Majesty's personal eunuch. His Majesty ordered me to wait here for Consort Yue. Just now, I realized I was in a hurry and forgot the rules. Please
forgive me ." Upon being asked, Xiao Dezi actually knelt down with a 'thud.' And he rattled off a whole bunch of things. What happened? Was I being rude again? I don't think so. "Alright, why
do you keep saying 'have mercy'? Do I look like such a vicious person?
" "Alright, get up. If you don't get up, the Emperor will have to wait even longer." After I finished speaking, Xiao Dezi jumped up immediately and moved aside. Then our group was able to
resume normal driving.
"Haoran, Dabao. I'm back." I got out of the sedan chair outside the 'Yuanyang Palace' and told the sedan chair bearers to go back and rest. So I ran in without any regard for my image. After pretending for so long
, of course I had to revert to my true nature once I got home. It's strange, why didn't Haoran greet me at the door like before? What's he doing in the house all by himself? Could he have fallen asleep while waiting?
Thinking this, I tiptoed to the door like a thief and gently pushed it open.
"Oh my god, you scared me! Mother, Empress, you're all here! I thought it was just the Emperor alone." Indeed, the room was filled with a large group of people. Of course, besides the three most powerful
figures in the palace—the Emperor, the Empress Dowager, and the Empress—the rest were eunuchs and maids.
"Dou Dou, where have you been?" Hearing the Empress Dowager's question, I, being a bit dense, didn't catch the tension and thought she was just concerned about me. So, I smiled, a very
bright and cheerful smile. Smiling, I walked to the Empress Dowager's side like I was presenting a treasure, then lowered my head as if sharing a secret.
"Mother, I have to tell you, you're going to be a grandmother!" I shared this secret with the Empress Dowager; I was going to find out sooner or later anyway. Knowing now might be helpful, and even if
it wasn't, it would be good to make my mother-in-law happy beforehand.
"Dou Dou, it's true, you…" The Empress Dowager's voice was excited, her face full of surprise, her eyes shining as she stared at my belly. Oops! A misunderstanding.
"No, Mother. Let me tell you." After saying this, I leaned close to the Empress Dowager's ear again and whispered in her ear. I told her the whole plan in one go,
and more and more people knew the secret.
"What about Zi Luo?" It seemed the Empress Dowager didn't care about anything else; at this point, her only worry was Zi Luo's pregnancy.
"Don't worry, Hao Ran has taken care of everything. I went to the General's Mansion today to handle this matter." I had to claim credit eventually. "What did
General Wei say?" the Empress Dowager asked curiously.
"With me in charge, what can't be handled? Of course, it's okay." I was a little carried away with my pride.
"Oh? What?" The Empress Dowager clearly didn't understand.
"Okay means it's done." I quickly explained.
"Haha, you little devil!" Seeing the Empress Dowager's beaming face, she was clearly very happy.
"Will Mother reward me?" The Empress Dowager was getting a daughter-in-law and gaining another generation. This was a double celebration. And since I was essentially the matchmaker, the matchmaker's red envelope
was only fair.
"Good, good. A reward. Here, this bracelet is for you. It was a gift from the Empress Dowager when I was Empress. Now I'm giving it to you. Here, let me put it on you." It seemed the Empress Dowager
was truly delighted, even skipping the dignified self-reference of 'Aijia' and simply referring to herself as 'I'. It seems every parent is the same when it comes to matters of children and grandchildren. They are all genuinely happy
for their children and grandchildren, and worried about them as well.
"Thank you, Mother, you're so kind." I seized the opportunity to snuggle into the Empress Dowager's arms and act coquettishly. Actually, no matter how unapproachable someone may seem, as long as you offer a sincere heart, you will surely receive a
sincere return.
"Good, good, good child. You should also give me a grandson soon, so that I can meet the ancestors of the 'Sun and Moon Kingdom'." At this moment, the Empress Dowager referred to herself as
"Aijia ." I could clearly sense her feelings; although she was the Empress Dowager, she also had her responsibilities. That is to ensure the 'Sun and Moon Kingdom' can live peacefully and be passed down from generation to generation, and not
be interrupted during her time.
"Don't worry, Mother, it will be done." Seeing the Empress Dowager's state, I agreed without hesitation.
"Good, you've been busy all day, you must be tired, go and rest early. I'll go back now." It seems this surprise is too great for the Empress Dowager, so she's a little excited. She's also
a little tired.
"Mother, let me see you off." I quickly helped her up.
"No need, you stay and rest with your son for a while. The Empress can see me off." The Empress Dowager said, patting my hand.
"Yes, sister, I can do it. You rest." The Empress gently took the Empress Dowager's hand. I don't know why, although the Empress smiled very gently, I still couldn't help
but shiver. It must be because she said wildly yesterday that she would kill me. And Ling Feng said the same thing, so she's a little scared.
"Ah, alright, you all go ahead." I smiled awkwardly at the Empress.
"Dou Dou, I love you more and more. You are truly a gift from heaven." The
Empress Dowager had just left when Hao Ran rushed over, picked me up, and spun me around like a child. His expression was incredibly excited.
"Are you crazy? Put me down! Mother hasn't left yet, what kind of behavior is this?" I patted Hao Ran while glancing at the open door. Sure enough, I saw the Empress Dowager
turn around to look at us, her face bearing a kind smile tinged with blessing. However, the fleeting hatred in the Empress's eyes made me shudder again.
"Dou Dou, everyone's gone. What are you still looking at, Dou Dou? Are you scared? Why are you shaking? Are you feeling unwell? Someone, summon the imperial physician, quick!"
Hao Ran, who had been happy, finally noticed something was wrong with me.
"No need, I'm fine." When I heard "summon the imperial physician," I finally realized
what was happening. "Dou Dou, are you really alright? The way you were shaking just now almost scared me to death." Seeing Hao Ran's worried expression made me laugh.
"You were scared to death just like that? What if I died? Hehe, I mean, what if I disappeared?" I wanted to say what if I died, but after his glare,
I had to change my mind.
"With me here, you're not allowed to go anywhere. I swear if you disappear, I'll find you to the ends of the earth." Hao Ran's serious expression left me speechless. I knew
that as an emperor, there were many things beyond his control, and many times he couldn't do as he pleased. Although he said this now, how could he possibly abandon the empire he had conquered to search for me to the ends of the earth? However
, even though I knew it was impossible, I was still very moved by his words. It's already rare for an emperor to be so deeply in love with her; what more could I ask for?
*Gurgle gurgle gurgle*
"I'm hungry. I want chicken legs, will you find some for me?" I couldn't help but whine to Haoran. Because this kind of opportunity doesn't come around often, and I hadn't forgotten about his many concubines
.
"Quickly prepare some chicken for Consort Yue, and have the imperial kitchen prepare some white fungus and lotus seed porridge." After giving the orders, Haoran turned to me: "It's not mealtime yet, are you hungry?"
"Yes, you're not allowed to eat. Today, my 'Mandarin Duck Palace' won't provide you with food; go eat at the Empress's." Yes, that was my purpose. The Empress was a pitiful person, no matter how you look at it. I have
a group of husbands who love me, but although she is the Empress, she has no one who loves her. Thinking about it, she's truly pitiful.
"DouDou, are you jealous or serious?" Damn, weren't we just fine a moment ago? How come you've suddenly turned on me like this?
"Haoran, let's have a meal. Is there anything you want?" Ugh, who's ever seen someone try to persuade their husband to have dinner with another woman? Never seen one before, right? Now I have. But I'm not being sincere; I
just feel sorry for the Empress and am afraid she might do something crazy. Let me make it clear, I'm not afraid of death, I just feel it's a bit unjust to die like this.
"Okay, I'll go now." Seriously, I talked to him nicely, and he just waved his sleeve and left. Does he want to 'wave his sleeve and leave without a trace'?
"Oh dear, Your Highness, what's wrong?" Xi'er came in carrying food.
"What's wrong? Nothing's wrong," I pouted and answered indifferently, but after glancing at the food Xi'er brought, I suddenly lost my appetite. Who understands me? I'm
not feeling well either. But I didn't expect that I cared more than I thought. I even have an urge to rush out and stop Haoran. However, I only thought about it briefly;
how embarrassing it would be to actually go . What did I say?
"Your Highness, I meant I saw the Emperor storm off. Did you upset him?" Xi'er wasn't polite at all, asking so frankly that it was impossible to pretend ignorance. But
was it really necessary for him to be so angry while dining with a beautiful woman? Thinking this, I smiled.
"Xi'er, come here. You saw the Emperor was very angry, right?" I beckoned Xi'er over. Xi'er nodded firmly.
"Then, did you see where he went?" He wouldn't have really gone to the Empress's 'Moon Palace' in a fit of anger, would he?
"It seemed to be in the direction of the 'Imperial Study'." Xi'er's answer made my face light up with joy, and my heart felt just as sweet. Yes, this is my husband! After this little commotion
, I've decided that my husband is mine, and I won't give him to anyone else. I'm a selfish person from the 21st century, not some great person. What's that saying again? 'Feelings can't be forced;
forcing them brings no happiness.' "Hehe, my husband is only happy with me, so I've decided that from now on I won't push him away anymore, but will pull him in instead.
" "Xi'er, let's go to the 'Imperial Study'," I said, looking at the chicken leg on the table with a hint of regret. Oh well, I'll just have to bear with it. Anyway, I've found Haoran, so what can't I eat? Thinking
this I finally managed to look away from the chicken leg.
"Your Majesty, is this alright? The Imperial Study is where the Emperor handles official business. It seems no concubine has ever gone there to see the Emperor." Xi'er voiced her hesitation.
"Oh, it's alright. We're not spies, and we won't steal state secrets. We're just going to have a meal. It's alright, let's go, let's go." In my mind
, as long as there's no malice, I can go anywhere. Besides, after being bothered by the Empress Dowager today, I forgot to ask him how he was handling Zi Luo's matter. How could I not go? Hehe, good
idea. I'll just say I went to see him to ask about Zi Luo's matter; that would be more respectable. Hehe, I'm getting smarter and smarter. I quickly touched my hair and even
tugged at it. It hurt, but I laughed. People say 'brilliant people are bald,' but my hair is still pretty strong, so I shouldn't become bald.
We walked and walked and walked. This imperial study is really far. It seems Haoran has to go through so much trouble to come see me every day.
"Greetings, Your Majesty! Where are you going?" What a coincidence. I'm a little afraid of her now, but of all times, we run into each other again.
"Oh, it's you, little sister. I just came back from having lunch at Aunt's. Where have you been? Have you eaten?" Seeing the Empress's warm greeting, I felt strangely
uncomfortable, I don't know if it was just my imagination. I actually felt a little uneasy.
"I was just about to go find Haoran to eat." As soon as I said that, I saw the Empress's eyes suddenly narrow. My god, I swear I'm not mistaken this time. She really had a fierce look in her eyes.
Although it was only for a fleeting moment, I really saw it. I looked around. It seemed to be because it was lunchtime; there was no one else around except us.
What I glanced at the lake beside me. If she really intended to kill me, she could kick me in and kill me. I thought I'd better get out of there.
"Um, if Your Majesty has nothing else, I'll be going now." I quickly tugged at Xi'er's sleeve, reminding her to be careful.
"Then hurry up, sister. It wouldn't be good to keep the Emperor waiting." Hearing the Empress say this, I breathed a sigh of relief.
I nodded and quickly walked past the Empress, thinking I was safe. But before I could even relax, my heart jumped again because of Xi'er's scream. I quickly
turned around faced. She looked like she'd fallen badly.
"Xi'er, are you alright? Are you hurt?" I quickly knelt down to help her.
"Old woman! What a bold servant! How dare you touch the Empress!" After an angry shout from an old palace maid beside the Empress, a squad of guards suddenly appeared. This confused me a bit
. Where did they come from?
"Throw this unruly palace maid into the lake!" The old palace maid with a fierce face uttered a grotesque voice.
"Please, Your Majesty, spare my life! I didn't mean to, I really didn't mean to!" Xi'er was so frightened that she quickly got up from her fall and kowtowed desperately.
"Xi'er, get up. This isn't your fault." I squatted down to pull her up, but I couldn't budge the terrified Xi'er. This fueled my anger, and my first thought was to target
that old palace maid. But before I could explode, she started yelling again.
"You audacious servant, how dare you refer to yourself as 'I' in front of the Empress! Who do you think you are?" After she finished yelling, Xi'er started slapping herself in the face while apologizing
. She was clearly terrified.
Seeing Xi'er like this, I was completely enraged.
Chapter 123 Hao Ran's 'Ambiguity'
"Hey, who do you think you are? Do you have the right to talk like that? Xi'er, stand up. Don't embarrass me!" I hate these kinds of arrogant servants the most. She always
calls herself 'this servant' this, this servant' that, and she says no one cares about her. What right does a servant like her have to care about my people?
"Master Yue." Xi'er looked up at me fearfully. Although the beating had stopped, her face was already red and swollen.
"If you treat me as your master, get up!" I didn't help her up; I let her bravely stand up on her own.
Everyone's eyes were on Xi'er. If she got up, it meant she was with me, resisting to the end. The consequences might be terrible, but she could retain her dignity. If she didn't get up, it would
be tantamount to openly betraying me. But that would save her life.
The Empress hadn't said a word from beginning to end, a typical cunning person. This time, I thought I could escape unscathed
. Time seemed to stand still; everyone was waiting for Xi'er's reaction. I stared at her, offering her silent encouragement, but the Empress was also watching her. That silent threat made Xi'er
tremble. Xi'er didn't raise her head from beginning to end, seemingly struggling with her thoughts. I didn't want to force her; everyone has their own choices. As long as she wouldn't regret it in the future, that was fine
. Even if she did regret it, it was her own choice.
The Empress's lips curled into a bewitching smile, completely out of place with her gentle appearance, because of Xi'er's timidity. It seemed I had lost this time. I turned away speechlessly, ready to leave.
"Your Highness, wait, wait, I!" Hearing Xi'er say "I," I actually smiled through my tears. It was truly moving. Not because I had defeated
anyone, but because Xi'er had finally found herself. I smiled and helped Xi'er, who was kneeling on the ground, her legs clearly weak, to her feet. Completely unaware, the Empress was already plotting murder.
"Sister, don't be angry. It was this servant's fault for being disrespectful. Wet nurse, quickly help Xi'er up." The Empress finally spoke, which surprised me. I thought she was going to pretend to be unconscious until the very end
.
"Xi'er, come, let this old servant help you up." The old servant actually came over, causing Xi'er to fearfully move aside.
"What? Does Xi'er not forgive this old servant? This old servant has no ill intentions, just telling you, a servant is a servant. You'll regret this sooner or later. Come, let me help you up.
" The old servant said, bending down to help Xi'er up. I thought it was nothing, perhaps the Empress was trying to save face. I didn't think much of it, but I soon realized I was too naive and
too foolish.
When I saw Xi'er being pulled away, it was as if something was pulling her, and she flew straight past me into the lake, a meter away. It all happened so suddenly that not only did I not know what was happening, but
Xi'er herself only cried for help after falling into the water.
"Xi'er!" I didn't have time to figure out what was going on. I rushed towards the lake; saving her was the most important thing now. "What are you all standing there for? Save her! Save her!" I
yelled at them, each one seemingly frozen in place, coldly watching. I was almost frantic, but they remained standing there, their hearts softening as they glanced away.
"Xi'er, I'm coming to save you." I glared at these cold-blooded people, then quickly turned to look at Xi'er in the lake. As soon as I finished speaking, I jumped in.
I don't know if it was because I jumped too hard or what, but I choked several times. Suddenly, I felt like I couldn't breathe. A sense of death enveloped me. No, I can't
die; I have to save Xi'er. Although I don't know how that old servant did it, it must have been her. Even if it meant my death, I had to save Xi'er first. Thinking this, I desperately swam towards Xi'er
. But I drank more and more water, and felt myself sinking deeper and deeper. It seemed I was really going to die. Xi'er, I'm sorry, I can't save you. In the underworld, I'll be your maid to apologize
.
Just when I thought I was going to be with the water forever, I suddenly felt someone gently tug at my shoulder. When I came to, I was already on the shore. I opened my eyes and saw Ling Feng
, it was Ling Feng.
"Little boy, Ling Feng, Xi'er." Seeing that Xi'er didn't seem angry, tears streamed down my face, and my throat burned. My voice sounded like a broken gong. I looked at Ling Feng
pleadingly , silently begging him to save Xi'er.
"She's alright." Ling Feng's voice was cold, but to my ears, it sounded like heavenly music. I could finally faint with relief.
"Dou Dou, are you alright?" When I slowly opened my eyes, I saw the person beside me was startled.
"Zi Luo, what are you doing here?" I only realized how dry my throat was when I spoke. Zi Luo quickly brought me a glass of water from the table.
"Here, drink this. 'The White Horse Divine Doctor' added some floral dew to it; it will make you feel much better." I obediently took a sip, expecting it to be hard to swallow, but
it felt cool and soothing in my throat.
"Zi Luo, what are you doing here?" I asked again. Shouldn't she be at 'General Wei's Mansion' waiting to get married tomorrow?
"I heard you had an accident, so I came to check on you. Dou Dou, you are my great benefactor, you absolutely cannot be hurt." Zi Luo started crying as she spoke,
which made me panic and not know what to do. I, Long Dou Dou, fear nothing in the world except people crying in front of me. Once she started crying, I was completely at a loss.
"Oh dear, don't cry. I'm not some great benefactor to you, you're my sister, have you forgotten we swore brotherhood?" I quickly tried to comfort her, but I'm terrible at comforting
people . So, I just went for it.
"Waaaaah!" I decided to use my strength.
"Dou Dou, don't cry, what's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?" As soon as I cried, Zi Luo stopped. I didn't really want to make her anxious, so I slowly lowered my hand, showing her
a smile without a single tear.
"Hehe, you." Zi Luo was amused by me.
"Dou Dou, I'm getting married tomorrow, can you come?" Zi Luo's voice was small, but full of expectation. It seemed she hoped I would go around giving my blessings.
"What are you saying? You're my sister, I'm family, of course I'll go!" I patted my chest heartily.
"Dou Dou, thank you." Zi Luo's thanks were soft, but I could feel the weight of them. So I nodded, indicating that I accepted her thanks. We chatted for a while longer, then I let
her go. She's getting married tomorrow, so she needs to prepare, dress up, and so on.
"DouDou, are you asleep?" Just as I closed my eyes, I heard YouRen open the door and come in, then sit down beside me.
"Haoran, why are you here? Were you worried about me? I'm fine. Xi'er was wronged today, remember to give her some food and supplies." I didn't want Haoran to be seen as
a tyrant who didn't care about the lives of his servants. That would lose the people's hearts.
"Doudou, why are you so kind, so silly?" Haoran's eyes were a little moist. Where was I kind, and where was I silly?
"Oh, don't be so tragic, it's like I'm about to die." Before I could finish speaking, Haoran covered my mouth.
"You're not allowed to say that word, not ever again." Haoran was so serious and domineering like this. Fine, I won't say it then. So I nodded slightly. If I didn't nod, he
might suffocate me.
"Doudou, what happened? Did the Empress make things difficult for you, bully your mother?" Why was Haoran asking me? Did he not know what happened? Surely not.
"Haoran, what are you saying? How could the Empress, such a good person, do that? It's just that Xi'er accidentally fell in, and I forgot I can't swim, so I jumped in directly." Let me make it
clear, I'm not some kind of compassionate good person, but it's better not to tell Haoran about this. If I tell him, things will definitely get much worse. I'll still have a chance to get revenge myself.
"Dou Dou, if you don't want to talk about it, that's fine. Anyway, from now on, no one in the entire palace will dare to bully you anymore." Haoran's words startled me.
"You, what did you do to the Empress?" I hope no one dies. That would be a huge problem.
"I didn't do anything to her. It's just that you're very important to me, and everyone has to listen to you." Oh, so that's how it is. I was startled for nothing.
"Haoran, go back to sleep. You have to attend court early tomorrow." I don't want him to be too tired.
"I'll sleep here tonight, okay? I promise I won't move around. I just want to hold you quietly while I sleep, that way I'll feel more at ease." Haoran's tone made me clearly feel that
he was very tired today. Not physically, but emotionally.
"Come on up." I made some room for Haoran. Haoran didn't move or say anything, just quietly held me. After a while, I heard his breathing go from
heavy to shallow, then back to normal. I knew he was fast asleep. Looking at Haoran's handsome face, I felt an indescribable pang of heartache. Being an emperor must be exhausting
. Could Haoran bear such a heavy burden?
Unconsciously, I slowly closed my eyes and fell into a deep sleep in Haoran's arms.
*Knock knock knock
* I heard a soft knocking on the door. "Are you kidding me? Who's so addicted to this in the middle of the night?" I grumbled, burying my head a little deeper into Haoran's arms, hoping to block out
the noise .
"Come in." I felt Haoran gently cover my ears before responding to the person outside.
"Your Majesty, it's almost time for the morning court session. This servant has brought you the dragon robe." Although Haoran covered my ears, I was already awake, so I knew it was Xiao Dezi. "But
what time is it? Why is it already morning court?
" "It's already Mao Shi (5-7 AM), why is the 'Yuanyang Palace' pitch black? Where has everyone gone?" Hearing this, I chuckled inwardly. Where could they be so early in the morning? Of course,
they're all obediently sleeping in their rooms. However, I didn't want to explain any of this now.
"Reporting to Your Majesty, none of them are up yet," Xiao Dezi said cautiously, seemingly afraid of angering the Emperor.
"Alright, I understand. You may leave," Haoran said, dismissing Xiao Dezi.
"But, Your Majesty, morning court..." Xiao Dezi was truly a dutiful servant.
"Tell them there's no morning court today," Haoran said, then lay down next to me. What? No morning court? Sleeping in my room means no morning court? Am I going to be like Yang Guifei?
"No, you have to go to court." In my excitement, I forgot about pretending to be asleep and sat up abruptly.
"Dou Dou, did I wake you?" Haoran glared at Xiao Dezi with some displeasure.
"Don't worry about me. How can you, as the ruler of a country, not attend court? Although attending court so early is a bit inhumane, since the rules haven't changed, you have to follow them. Do you know
how early all the officials got up? They're definitely earlier than you. They came all this way in the middle of the night. And you're not going? Aren't you a foolish ruler? You'll disappoint the ministers, you know that?
" I scolded him like a child. Xiao Dezi looked surprised, while Haoran looked embarrassed.
"Dou Dou, stop talking, I'll go, okay? Come and change." Feeling a little ashamed, Haoran could only vent his anger on Xiao Dezi, who was watching the commotion.
"Yes." Xiao Dezi quickly ran to the bedside, then helped the emperor take off his outer robe, leaving only the snow-white inner robe. He then began to unfold the yellow robe and put it on Haoran piece by piece
. Yellow clothes, yellow belt, yellow boots. Finally, the crown. Xiao Dezi put it on with ease, it seemed he had worn it many times before.
"How is it?" Haoran turned to look at me after he finished dressing.
"Like the Emperor." My answer made Haoran burst into laughter, and he couldn't help but touch my face, as if he was very happy. Actually, I felt quite unfamiliar with Haoran dressed like this,
but he seemed very natural.
"Alright, stop laughing, everyone's sleeping. You've woken them up." Doesn't Haoran have any sense of public decency?
"So you only know that your servants are sleeping. I bet it was your idea." Haoran looked like he knew everything.
"Yes, it was my idea. Who told the palace rules to be so inhumane? They're all so young, getting up so early will stunt their development. Never mind, I'm not talking to you anymore, hurry up,
hurry up . It'll be bad if we're late." I waved my hand at him like swatting a fly.
"Okay, I'm going." But Haoran only took two steps before stopping again. "Xiao Dezi, wait outside, I'll be right out." Haoran said and then came back. I wonder what he wanted this time
. I glared at him, waiting for him to explain, but he just smiled at me and pulled a dagger from his sleeve. Damn it, what was he trying to do? Was he trying to kill me or
commit suicide?
"Haoran, what are you doing?" I asked, but he just smiled and then showed me the answer with his actions. He slashed his finger with the dagger. Blood flowed out, and his action
startled me so much that I sat up abruptly, jumped out of bed, and ran over to check his injury, and also to see if he'd lost his mind.
"Does it hurt? Are you out of your mind? Why did you hurt yourself like that? If you're addicted, why don't you just cut your own throat?" I said, annoyed, and then took
out the pretty handkerchief I'd been saving for myself, intending to wipe it and bandage it, but this guy dodged me. He even went straight to the bed.
While going on, I saw him wipe his injured finger on the snow-white sheets.
"Haoran, you pervert! You won't sleep, and you're making me miserable too, right?" I immediately snapped.
"Haha, haha." Haoran completely ignored my anger and walked away laughing. Even from a distance, I could still hear his laughter. Looks like I'm not getting any sleep.
He must have woken everyone up. Like I said, pervert, absolute pervert.
*Bang bang bang *
"Who is it?" Her voice was a little annoyed because of lack of sleep.
"Master Yue, it's me... Xi'er." Upon hearing Xi'er's voice, I quickly rushed over and opened the door to let her in. When I saw the basin in her hands, I quickly
took it from her and then pulled her hand to sit down together.
"Xi'er, why are you up so early instead of resting? Are you feeling better? Is there anything else that's bothering you?" I looked her up and down with concern. I still remembered her
lifeless face when I first pulled her out of the water. Thinking about it now still makes my heart ache.
"I'm fine now. Thank you for your concern, Master Yue." Xi'er's eyes were a little red, and her voice was a little choked up.
"Alright, that's enough. The things have been delivered. Go back and rest early." I still felt that she should get some rest.
"Okay, I'll fold the blankets and comb Master Yue's hair before I leave." Xi'er didn't refuse directly. I didn't want to agree at first, but thinking that today was Zi Luo's big day, I, as her
younger sister, couldn't be too shabby and embarrass Zi Luo. So I nodded and started washing my face.
"Hehe."
"What's so great about folding a blanket? Oh, you mean that? I didn't get it dirty, that perverted Haoran. Nobody washed it, so he'll have to wash it." I said,
washing my face while shifting blame. Actually, it wasn't shifting blame; it wasn't me who did it.
Xi'er just laughed as she pulled the sheet off, then carried it outside. After a while, I heard a large group of palace maids laughing outside. What's so funny? I
went outside curiously. But everyone stopped talking when they saw me.
"What are you so happy about? Tell me, let me share." I could only ask, and they looked at each other. Finally, with a whoosh, they all knelt down. They shouted in unison
, "Congratulations, Master! Congratulations, Master!"
I looked at Xi'er, who was kneeling at the front, puzzled. When I saw the blood on the sheet in her hand, my face flushed red. Damn it, Beigong Haoran, I'm going to kill you!
Chapter 124 The Great Turning Point (Part 1)
Si Haoran clearly knew he had angered me, so he hadn't shown up all morning.
"Xi'er, go and fetch him for me." I was furious and finally couldn't hold back anymore.
"Master Yue, don't be angry, here, have some water." Xi'er handed me a cup of water.
"Oh, I'm not angry. If he doesn't come soon, I'll miss Zi Luo's wedding." That's the important thing. As for settling scores with him later, there's no rush.
"Master Yue means that the Second Prince is getting married, and the Emperor wants to take you to the ceremony?" Why was Xi'er so excited? Her eyes were practically sparkling. It's just attending a wedding, is it necessary to make
such a fuss?
"Yes, but he hasn't come yet, he must have forgotten. No, you shouldn't go looking for him either, let's go together." I said, standing up. Hmph, I don't want to go with him either
. But before I could even stand up, Xi'er pressed me back down.
"Your Highness, what's the rush? Your Majesty, the Imperial Consort's ceremony will be held at night." Xi'er's words startled me. Damn, do they really have weddings at night in their 'Sun and Evening Kingdom'? But
thinking about it, it's actually quite nice. Haha, there's plenty of time to prepare during the day, unlike modern times where everyone starts working in the middle of the night. And after the ceremony at night, they can go straight to sleep—it's so humane
!
"Xi'er, there's no rush. Come, let me ask you. What kind of gift is appropriate for a wedding here? What do you think Zi Luo wants most?" Zi Luo is my sister
, after all. Even though Bei Gongzheng is the Second Prince and lacks nothing, I can't go empty-handed.
"..." Seeing Xi'er's hesitant expression, I knew I'd asked the right person.
"Okay, Xi'er, just tell me." Ugh, to get the answer, I'll sacrifice my image and act cute.
"I think every woman wants the 'Sun and Moon Bracelet,'" Xi'er said, glancing at me furtively, as if afraid of accidentally angering me.
"Why are you looking at me like that? What's the 'Sun and Moon Bracelet'? What does it have to do with me?" Is it hard to get, or what? Judging from Xi'er's expression, there must be some
inside story.
"'Sun and Moon Bracelet' is also called 'Destined Bracelet'. This bracelet was given to Empress 'Crescent Moon' by our founding ancestor 'Beigong Ri'. In our 'Sun and Evening Kingdom', there's a legend: if
a woman obtains this bracelet, she will become the happiest woman, just like Empress 'Crescent Moon'." Xi'er said, a look of longing appearing on her small face.
"Was the happiest woman, 'Crescent Moon', really happy?" I was very interested because in my definition, being the emperor's woman is absolutely not a happy thing. Thinking back, last time
I asked Haoran to have dinner at the Empress's, Haoran just said he was going, and I felt so bad. If she really had to share with another woman, how could she be happy? I couldn't understand it.
"Yes, the founding ancestor's entire harem only had one person like this. Don't you think that's romantic?" Xi'er's words made me shudder.
"Really? Where is the 'Sun and Moon Bracelet' now?" I exclaimed in surprise. This wasn't just a matter of romance; it was incredibly touching. In ancient times,
aside from poverty and unavoidable circumstances, who didn't have multiple wives and concubines? For an emperor to dedicate his entire harem to just one person—that's truly a timeless tale! I think this dynasty is
unprecedented in history. If it existed, it would be a classic story endlessly adapted for television and film.
"Well, um, it was originally in the Empress Dowager's possession, but later…" Xi'er hesitated, seemingly reluctant to speak. It seemed I'd have to unleash my rich
imagination and start guessing again.
"Later, it fell to the ground and shattered." If it's really gone, I won't have to worry about it anymore.
Shakes head!
"Given away." If so, I'll go ask that person for it. But would they be willing to give it away?
Nods
. Hehe, looks like there's a chance. Keep trying.
"Given to whom?" This time they should at least say something.
Shakes head!
Oh my god, this is like talking to a mute! This is exhausting!
"You shook your head, does that mean you don't know who to give it to?" I asked again.
Another shake of the head!
I really felt like banging my head against a wall, but for Zi Luo's sake, I endured it!
"You know who to give it to, but you don't want to say." That's probably it; there's no other possibility.
She hesitated, but finally nodded slightly.
"The Empress," she was the first person that came to mind. She's the Empress Dowager's niece and sometimes her daughter-in-law. And Xi'er might not be saying because she's afraid. All signs pointed to this as
the answer . But the result was unexpected; Xi'er actually shook her head.
"I'm not guessing anymore. The whole world is so big, there are so many people. How would I know who to give it to? Are you going to tell me or not? If not, just go ask the Empress Dowager." My limit had finally
been reached. Rather than wasting my energy here, I might as well just ask the Empress Dowager. She must know who she gave it to. Besides, I get along quite well with the Empress Dowager; she should tell me.
"Your Highness!" Xi'er cried out. At least she made a sound!
"Will you tell me or not? I'll count to five. If you don't, I'll go ask the Empress Dowager." I looked at Xi'er; her face was flushed with nervousness, making me reluctant to pressure her. "Alright
, if you're having trouble, don't say anything. I'll go ask the Empress Dowager myself." I was too soft-hearted, so I had no choice but to make a trip to 'Phoenix Residence'.
"Your Highness, don't go. I'll tell you." Xi'er finally relented at the last moment.
"Good Xi'er, tell me quickly, where is it?" I looked at her expectantly.
"It's... in your hand!" Oh my god! I looked at my hand. There really was a bracelet. Right, how could I forget? It was a gift from the Empress Dowager. Good heavens
, this is so unexpected! How could the Empress Dowager give me a table? I was so touched. I thought the Empress Dowager just liked my flattery and didn't genuinely like me. Now,
seeing this bracelet, I realized I was wrong.
"Waaah, I never thought I'd meet such a wonderful mother-in-law. I must be filial to her and make her happy.
" "Xi'er, you should have said so earlier! Why are you hesitating for so long?" Is this bracelet something that can't be given away, or is there some other reason?
"Xi'er hopes that Lady Yue will be the happiest person." Xi'er's sincere eyes moved me deeply again. Wow, everyone is so kind to me! How can I possibly
accept so much love?
"Xi'er, I also hope Zi Luo is happy. I'm actually much happier than her. Everyone in the 'Mandarin Duck Palace' treats me as well as you do, and I also have the Empress Dowager and the Emperor's love. I'm
already the happiest person, so why should I care about this bracelet? Don't you agree?" I looked at Xi'er and reasoned with her.
"Hmm." Xi'er finally smiled. It seemed she agreed with me giving the bracelet away.
"Xi'er, come with me to the 'Phoenix Residence'." I felt that if I wanted to give the bracelet away, I should first tell the Empress Dowager. This was, after all, a token of her affection for me, and I didn't want to give it away so
quietly .
"Why?" Xi'er's voice was tinged with fear, apparently afraid of bumping into the Empress. That's right, I'd heard the Empress was there all the time.
"Don't be afraid, I'm just going to pay my respects. Don't worry, I'll protect you, or I can go by myself." I didn't want to make things difficult for Xi'er.
"I'll accompany Consort Yue." Xi'er's determined look made me both amused and deeply moved.
And so, accompanied by Xi'er, we arrived at 'Phoenix Residence'. After I explained my intentions to the Empress Dowager, she held my hand, repeatedly saying, "What a good child
." Later, the Empress Dowager even rewarded me with a dress, a golden gauze skirt, dazzlingly beautiful. The Empress
Dowager originally wanted me to stay for lunch, but I politely declined. Because I really wanted to go back and try on this beautiful dress as soon as possible. Hehe, it's fortunate I didn't eat there
, because the Empress arrived just as I reached the door. I was so relieved! If I hadn't left, I would have had to eat with her. (It's obvious she came at this time to freeload.)
Eating with her would have been a nightmare.
"What a coincidence, little sister! Aren't you staying for dinner?" It was that same signature gentle smile, but I now knew that smile hid a heart of stone. I
hadn't , so I didn't have time for her now. We'd talk about it another time!
"Hehe, I have food at my 'Mandarin Duck Palace.' I heard you eat here every day. Why doesn't your 'Moon Palace' have any? Is the Empress too merciful, so those arrogant servants
are even more unruly? Should I tell the Emperor to clean up the Empress's household?" Although I wasn't going to settle the score with her today, I couldn't let her get away with it. Especially that old scoundrel; I
could practically feel Xi'er trembling. But, hehe, that old scoundrel was quite well-behaved today, keeping her head down the whole time, not even daring to look at me. It seemed Haoran must have
disciplined her.
"Thank you for your concern, sister. I'm doing well in my 'Moon Palace,' so please don't trouble yourself. I'll go in now; it wouldn't be good to keep Aunt waiting." I couldn't help but admire her. She was clearly
seething with anger, yet she managed to maintain a gentle smile. Truly impressive.
"Then please, Your Majesty. I'm in a hurry to get back too. Xi'er, be careful not to lose your clothes." My biggest mistake was getting a little too cocky this time,
deliberately showing off my beautiful clothes to the Empress. Actually, my intentions were quite simple; I just wanted to make the Empress jealous. But to my utter dismay, I never imagined that a concubine wearing yellow
was tantamount to disrespecting the Empress.
Honestly, I never intended to become Empress; I just wanted to annoy her. But that's a story for later. First, let me tell you how
beautifully I dressed when I got back. A yellow veil draped over her body, and under Xi'er's skillful hands, her hair was styled beautifully, her eyebrows drawn, her eyes painted, rouge applied, powder applied, and even her lips were lightly painted
red. I couldn't help but think to myself, "This isn't human, she's practically a fairy!
" "So beautiful!" I stood in the sunlight, the sunlight shining on my golden clothes, creating a halo of light that shimmered, truly like a fairy. Xi'er couldn't help but
exclaim .
"Dou Dou!" Just as I was admiring myself, Hao Ran's sudden shout startled me. What had happened? Before I could even ask, Hao
Ran rushed to my side and hugged me tightly. His excitement made me very worried. Had something really happened? I had never seen Hao Ran so anxious.
"Hao Ran, what's wrong? Let go of me and tell me slowly." Hao Ran was so excited that his strength was so great that I could hardly breathe.
"I won't let go, Dou Dou, don't go, don't leave me, I'll treat you well, please don't go back to heaven, okay?" It took me a while to understand what
Hao also seen what had just happened and thought I was going back to heaven.
"Do you really believe what I'm saying? I mean, about me." Now's the time to ask, right?
"I believe you, I believe you. Although I don't want to believe it, I know that a special woman like you must come from a place with spirits. Dou Dou, please don't leave me, I'll
treat you well." Hao Ran's voice trembled.
"Okay, I won't go, and I'm not leaving. I just wanted to try on the clothes the Empress Dowager gave me, see if they look good." I explained, then smiled and pushed away the hesitant Hao Ran. " They're
beautiful, really from the Empress Dowager." Hao Ran seemed a little incredulous.
"Of course, the Empress Dowager loves me very much, didn't she even give me the 'Sun and Moon Bracelet'?" I held up my hand to show him.
"You know?" It seemed Hao Ran was convinced I didn't know. You brat, you know I don't know, but you still won't tell me. I've been guessing like a fool all day, but I definitely can't let this
kid get away with it. Of course, I haven't forgotten what happened this morning.
"Apologize!" He apologized readily, so I'll forgive him for now—just for now, because I have to prepare for Zi Luo's wedding today and don't have time to deal with him.
"I'm sorry," Hao Ran said without hesitation.
"You're so quick to apologize, what are you apologizing for?" His quick reply amused me. He hadn't even thought about it; he just blurted it out as soon as he was asked to. I guessed he hadn't considered
why .
"Anything that makes DouDou unhappy or dissatisfied, I should apologize for. Come on, let's go eat, you must be starving. We have your favorite chicken legs, and wine too."
Haoran cleverly tried to distract me.
Glug, glug, glug... "Is it 'wine'?" Although I knew Haoran's trick, my stomach still growled uncontrollably, and my mouth was
watering .
"Smart, let's go quickly." And just like that, he led me away.
It's true what they say, emperors don't live long. They get up in the middle of the night every day for morning court sessions, and after court, they still have to go to the 'Imperial Study' for meetings. After all that, it's lunchtime
. After lunch, there are still all sorts of random people to meet. Some officials were reviewing memorials until late at night, and then a bunch of thirsty beauties were waiting for the emperor to satisfy them. It
would be strange if they didn't die young.
Haoran had just finished eating and was busy again, telling me to take a nap and we'd go to the ceremony together when I woke up. But thinking about how lively it was over there, how could I possibly
sleep ? I had to find something to do, otherwise I'd be bored to death. Suddenly, my eyes lit up, and I remembered someone.
"Xi'er, Ling Feng saved us last time, and we haven't thanked him yet, have we?" Yes, the person I thought of was Ling Feng. I always felt something was off. Why hadn't Ling Feng appeared since saving
us ? I remembered Ling Feng saying he was leaving, and now, counting, there are only seven days left. I don't want him to leave like this. If he leaves, when will I
ever find him again? He rushed to save me yesterday; I think he wasn't completely indifferent to me.
“But Mistress Yue, is it appropriate for you to go see the ‘White Horse Divine Physician’? Won’t people gossip?” I noticed a blush creep onto Xi’er’s face when I mentioned Ling Feng; it seemed
she was smitten. I thought with a touch of pride, what a pity, even if he’s good enough, he’s mine.
“It’s alright, people can say whatever they want, what can you do about it? Come on, hurry up. Don’t forget we have something to do later.” If I hadn’t mentioned the Emperor’s arrival
, things would have been fine, but now that I had, Xi’er absolutely refused to go.
“Mistress Yue, please listen to Xi’er this once. Just take a nap as the Emperor wishes, and don’t go out, okay?” Seeing Xi’er’s serious expression, I had no choice but to give up.
“Alright, then I’ll go to sleep, you go to sleep too, just wake me up when the Emperor comes.” I said, smiling as I pushed her out. She was a little flattered, not expecting me
to be so , and indeed, I wasn’t exactly a gentle, obedient type. After Xi'er left, I put the bracelet I was going to give to Zi Luo into a pretty box, and then,
when , I secretly ran out.
I hadn't even noticed the name of the place Ling Feng and I stayed at last night. Luckily, I still had my mouth to ask around. And 'The White Horse Divine Doctor' was obviously quite famous; I just asked
a little palace maid and she knew.
I happily followed the direction the little palace maid pointed, not knowing that this little palace maid was from 'Moon Palace'. Ugh, I can't even recognize all the palaces in my own palace, let alone other people's. But
they knew me, so as soon as I left, this palace maid went to 'Moon Palace' to inform them.
"Ling Feng, Ling Feng." I finally found this quiet courtyard after a lot of effort, but no one was there. So I could only leave disappointed. At that moment, Ling Feng was actually hiding
on the roof beam, watching me come in and watching me leave, clearly not wanting to see me.
"Master, you're finally back! Waaah!" Before I even stepped into the gates of the 'Mandarin Duck Palace,' someone rushed towards me.
"What's wrong? Don't cry, tell me slowly." A bad feeling rose in my heart.
"Xi'er, Xi'er has been taken away by the Empress." Sure enough, something happened.
Chapter 125 The Great Turning Point (Part 2)
I sent someone to inform Haoran, and then rushed towards the 'Moon Palace.' I knew that every second I delayed, Xi'er would be in greater danger. After all, since the Empress dared to openly take Xi'er away,
I figured she was completely unscrupulous.
Ah! Ah!
I had just reached the entrance of the 'Moon Palace' when I heard a terrible scream, which made me break out in a cold sweat.
"Xi'er." I sprinted in at top speed, and no one stopped me; it seemed they were waiting for me. I saw that old scoundrel standing beside Xi'er. There weren't
any terrifying instruments of torture, but I saw Xi'er clutching her arm, trembling. I knew Xi'er must have been beaten. I went over and lifted her sleeve, but there were no marks from being pinched.
"You used a needle!" I immediately thought of scenes from TV dramas. I thought such terrifying things were only exaggerated on TV, but it turned out to be real.
"Hehe, I didn't expect you to be so clever. You'll have to taste this too." That old scoundrel actually walked towards me. Now I know what it means to be 'a tiger fallen into the plains and bullied by dogs
.' I am the Moon Consort bestowed by the Emperor, and the Princess Chang Le bestowed by the Empress Dowager, with a group of powerful husbands. Now, I'm being threatened with torture by an old scoundrel. If I die like this,
wouldn't I be unjust?
With each step, my heart trembled with fear. But I couldn't lose face, so I looked like a hero going to his death, head held high, eyes wide open, and
said : "You dare!"
It had an effect; the old scoundrel did pause for a moment, but only for a moment.
"Haha, Consort Yue truly impresses this old servant. Even in this situation, she can still be so majestic. Good, I'll see if Consort Yue is really so extraordinary
, and how long her majesty can last." Damn, she's even more twisted than Rong Momo from "Princess Pearl."
"Don't be afraid, the Emperor will be here soon." I held Xi'er, who was clearly terrified, and gently patted her, hoping to relax her. I said the Emperor was coming to scare the Empress
and that old rascal, but I didn't expect it to hasten the disaster. I was truly foolish; how could I think the harem was so simple? How could I not trust the experience of those who came before me? It seems I
can only serve as a warning to future generations: "The palace is truly a place that devours people without spitting out the bones."
"Hehe, sister. The Emperor is currently discussing matters in the 'Imperial Study,' and no one dares to disturb him at this time. However, just in case, I think it's best not to wait." The Empress
finally spoke, still gentle and soft, as if discussing the weather.
"What do you think you're doing? Do you think Haoran will love you if I die?" I said fiercely, but inside I was terrified at the thought of death. Yu, Liuxiang, Xiaoyao, Piaoxue,
do you know I'm going to die? And Moyan, where are you? We're not that close yet, but can't you sense it? Your destined wife is going to die. Waaah, Haoran
, Lingfeng, I'm so close to you. If I die while I'm with you, how can you live in peace? Hurry up and come back... I'm starting to have all sorts of wild thoughts now, and in the end I even thought...
I wondered if my parents in heaven would come to save me, or if my other, never-before-seen husband would appear. But I soon learned that all those
sayings like "there's always a way out," "things will work themselves out," and "no mountain is too high to climb" were just trivial matters. They were useless when real trouble struck.
"Bring it here." I thought the Queen would argue with me, which would buy me some time, but she just stared at me for a moment before giving the order. It seems I'm
no match for her. Ugh, I haven't even found all nine of my husbands yet. I'm going to die unjustly.
"Sister, drink it. Don't worry, you won't die. This isn't poison." The Queen's voice made me look puzzled. Really? It's not poison. But then I
laughed at myself for believing someone like that. But couldn't I just not drink it? Or maybe knocking the bowl over would be a good idea. This looks like medicine; it would take them a long time to brew
another bowl .
"If your sister doesn't cooperate, you know the consequences." The Empress said, glancing at Xi'er in my arms. Well, she knows what I'm thinking. I looked towards the door;
there wasn't a soul in sight. It seemed I was completely doomed this time.
"Don't hurt her, I'll drink it. But tell me why! I've done nothing to you." I genuinely felt wronged; I wasn't trying to stall for
time.
"Heh, I'll tell you slowly later. Drink it, don't waste time." After the Empress finished speaking, I saw her give that old, cunning servant a look. I sensed something was wrong, but before
I could act, Xi'er was snatched from my arms. I knew I had no choice this time; I had to drink it, whether I wanted to or not.
I took a deep breath and told myself, "Long Doudou, you're a dragon, show some dragon spirit. Don't lose face, don't be afraid, and don't let your hands tremble. It's just poison; just treat it
like chicken soup."
"No, Your Majesty, no!" Xi'er finally managed to utter a broken voice, seemingly realizing the urgency of the situation.
I couldn't help but glance at the door again. People say, "The prince always appears at the last second," and if we didn't come now, it would truly be too late. My actions elicited a loud
laugh . "I think you should give up, otherwise..." Before her voice could finish, I heard Xi'er's scream.
"Stop! I'll drink it!" Damn it, even if I die, I won't let this wicked woman go. I picked up the bowl and gulped it down like it was cold water. Then
I stared wide-eyed at the Empress, awaiting death.
"You can leave now." The Empress actually said that. What did she mean? Did she really think I wouldn't die? This wasn't poison.
Things were definitely not that simple. The reason she wanted me to leave was because she was afraid I would die in her "Moon Palace." If I died elsewhere, without direct evidence, who could touch the
Empress, the mother of the nation? What was she to do? What a treacherous woman! However, I wasn't going to let her have her way. She told me to leave, but I wouldn't. Let's see what she can do to me. But first, I
need to get Xi'er back.
"Release Xi'er," I demanded directly. If it were anyone else, they would definitely kill her to silence her, but the Empress, so arrogant, would never care about a mere maid. And indeed, with
a wave of her hand, Xi'er was released by that old scoundrel.
"Master Yue, Master, are you alright, Master?" Xi'er rushed over and cried wildly, as if I were dead.
"Xi'er, listen to me. You must leave here right now. Be good, go find 'The White Horse Divine Physician,' and tell him I've been poisoned. Ask him to come and save me, understand?" I patted Xi'er's hand
, coaxing her to leave. I knew that even if Ling Feng came, it wouldn't make a difference. The Empress was Ling Feng's junior sister; how could she have poisoned someone Ling Feng could cure? I was only saying this to make Xi'er obediently
leave. Xi'er looked at me uncertainly, clearly at a loss. I could only give her another push: "If you don't want me to die, go now." This really
worked; Xi'er immediately stood up, leaving behind the words, "I'll be right back," and ran off.
"You're not leaving?" The Empress's voice changed slightly.
"Yes, I'm not leaving. Since I won't die, I'll stay and chat with you." I said, patting the beautiful clothes the Empress Dowager had given me, then stood up, walked to the Empress's side, sat down in
a chair , and poured myself a cup of tea, truly looking like I wanted to have a long talk with her.
"You're so arrogant!" The Empress's voice was filled with hatred.
"Haoran likes me like this the most; he doesn't like hypocrites." Since I was going to die anyway, I couldn't show weakness.
"Heh, let's see how long he can like you." I could even hear him gritting his teeth.
"I'll love him until he dies, don't worry. We're destined for each other according to the 'Book of Fate.' Even if I die, he won't love anyone else. Haoran said
I'm the one he loves most. By the way, do you know who Haoran hates most in his entire harem, who he least wants to see? Haoran told me, and I can tell you. Do you want to know?"
I brought the tea to my lips and smelled it.
"Drink tea." I thought this woman would be so angry she'd vomit blood and die before me. But unexpectedly, she laughed and even offered me tea. Oh well, my mouth was bitter after drinking
poison , so a little water would be good. I drank it like an idiot.
Ah!
I had just finished the water in the cup when I suddenly felt the poison take effect. My head hurt so much, it felt like it was going to explode. I fell from the sky into Yu's arms, and then
stared at his peerless face with fascination.
I smelled the faint fragrance in Liu Xiang's arms and said, "Liu Xiang, it smells so good."
I covered Xiao Yao's mouth with mine, and Xiao Yao burst out laughing when he found out why.
I pinched Xiao Xiao Piao Xue's ear and made him call himself an idiot.
I ate with Mo Li in the pavilion in the Imperial Garden and then made a 'lunch date'.
I drank with 'Moonlight' in Hao Ran's room, and Hao Ran's eyes were more beautiful than the moon.
I covered my nose and made Ling Feng take care of it, and he actually took out the tool and said, "Open it and take a look."
Suddenly, my memories seemed to have been deleted from a computer. Scenes of being with them flashed through my mind like lightning. I knew I was forgetting something very important, and I wanted to grasp it
but couldn't. I knew my memories of this world were empty. And I was so weak from this intense shock that I couldn't open my eyes.
"Dou Dou, are you alright, Dou Dou?" While I was unconscious, someone rushed to my side.
"Who are you?" Who was this anxious person? So beautiful.
"Dou Dou, it's me, Ling Feng, it's me, Ling Feng. Remember, it's me, Ling Feng!" His voice was urgent, as if he were clutching something tightly.
"Ling Feng, I remember, Ling Feng, Ling Feng." And so, I slowly fell into his arms, whispering Ling Feng's name, and closed my eyes.

URL 1:https://www.sexlove5.com/htmlBlog/139654.html

URL 2:/Blog.aspx?id=139654&aspx=1

Previous Page : Flight attendant Asami

Next Page : An Unregrettable First Love

增加

comment Open a new window to view comments

Contact Information

One Phoenix Nine Dragons 104125

comment Open a new window to view comments