That evening.
Liu Wan and Consort Ling watched the two depart together, the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law's eyes filled with worry and reluctance.
After bidding everyone farewell with the little baby in his arms, Yuanbao flew away.
Only when that dazzling figure disappeared from sight did Consort Ling have someone bring a cloak. She carefully draped it over Liu Wan and said:
"Wan'er, you haven't fully recovered yet. You shouldn't be out in the wind. The children possess extraordinary powers; they'll surely be safe. Let's go inside first."
"Mother, you must take good care of yourself too. Let's go back together." Liu Wan clasped Consort Ling's hand in return and helped her back to the Main Courtyard.
While she had been unconscious, her mother-in-law had tended to her devotedly, never even undressing to rest. Now, Liu Wan had someone bring a mugwort pouch to warm Consort Ling's shoulders and neck.
She chatted with Consort Ling as she massaged her shoulders.
Consort Ling said, "There's no need. You can leave these things to the servants."
"It's different. This is my way of showing my devotion to you, Mother. Please don't refuse."
Liu Wan knew full well that Consort Ling had hurt her shoulders and neck by tending to her day and night beside the bed, sleeping slumped against it.
Now that she had awakened, she naturally wanted to do something for her mother-in-law.
The mugwort pouch brought an immediate warmth to the back of her neck. With Liu Wan gently massaging her shoulders as well, the stiffness and aching that had plagued Consort Ling's neck these past days eased considerably.
"Wan'er, I'm afraid you'll feel lonely, so I'll stay here for now and wait with you for Heng'er and Wanwan to return. Zi Mu has made something of himself. Tomorrow, I'll accompany