None of those present lacked intelligence. At first, they failed to grasp Zhi Ji's meaning, but realization soon dawned on them, and their expressions changed in various ways!
"Your Majesty..."
Huan Empress Qi Ji looked at Xiao Ying with a sorrowful expression and complicated eyes. A thousand words filled her heart, yet she had no idea how to voice them. The others were much the same.
"It's merely a possibility we're preparing for before the rain comes. Besides, everything has already been arranged. Even if it happens, we'll only be parting for a while!"
Xiao Ying gave a bitter smile, steeled himself, and pretended to take it lightly. Then he swept his gaze over everyone present and reassured them confidently, "A brief parting is for the sake of staying together for years to come. Trust me!"
"But..."
Yu Ji bit her crimson lips, her small, jade-white hand stroking her visibly swollen belly. Thinking of the dangers of the Kingdom Ascension Ceremony, she ultimately could not bear to burden Xiao Ying further.
"Dong..."
Just then, the final lingering, melodious toll of the bell rang out.
Golden gongs and zithers, thundering drums and strings and flutes.
The imperial carriage's musicians began to play, signaling that it was time for the carriage to set off for the Heaven-Sacrificing Altar and the ceremony...
"Trust me. I'm confident I can protect myself, and I will definitely return!"
His reluctance plain as he looked around at everyone, Xiao Ying spoke heavily. He still called himself "I," speaking as an ordinary relative or friend.
With that, Xiao Ying extended his divine sense over Great Huan's six consorts and quietly reminded them once more, "If the situation truly turns out as the Heavenly Empress said, don't lose your footing. Keeping Great Huan stable must come first. With Great