She still brought him pastries, but the eagerness in her eyes had faded, replaced by a trace of caution. They would exchange a few words about the weather or medicinal herbs before going their separate ways. Lin Taichu knew it was time to leave. If he delayed any longer, it would only become harder to speak.
Early on the fifth day, Lin Taichu asked a guard for a piece of cloth and carefully wrapped up his trident. He also stuffed the medicine bottle Old Man of Medicine had given him, the jade pendant bestowed by the emperor, and the pastries Wang Yue had made into his bundle.
He first went to the study to find the Prince. The moment he pushed open the door, he saw the Prince staring blankly at a map, with an unfinished cup of tea sitting on the table.
"Prince." Lin Taichu placed his bundle on the floor and bowed.
The Prince looked up, and upon seeing him, quickly set down the map. "Taichu? What is it?"
"I came to say goodbye." Lin Taichu's voice was somewhat hoarse. "My cultivation has recovered, and I no longer want to involve myself in matters of the court. I plan to return to the Jianghu."
The Prince froze for a moment, then sighed. He did not try to persuade him to stay. Instead, he rose and patted him on the shoulder. "You never belonged in this Prince's residence to begin with. It is only natural that you would leave. But if you ever face difficulties in the future, come back anytime. This residence will always be a place for you to rest."
Lin Taichu's nose stung. Just as he was about to offer his thanks, hurried footsteps suddenly sounded outside. A guard rushed in in a panic, his face