The palace gates had long since closed.
Held in Uncle Zhong's arms, Jiang Yingcheng was carried all the way back into the palace, vaulting over its walls through sheer, extraordinary lightness skill.
The soldiers guarding the gates recognized them from far away and immediately started to turn to open the gates. Before they could even finish turning, however, the group leaped right over their heads and darted inside.
So they settled back into their posts with perfectly clear consciences.
Inside the palace gates, Jiang Yingcheng's indignant grumbling landed along with her.
"N-none of them would come back to the palace with Chengcheng. No loyalty at all!"
"When we were playing, they said Chengcheng was their best friend in the whole world, but when it was time to share hardship, they all ran away!"
"So mean! Chengcheng won't like those uncles ever again!"
She went on grumbling for quite some time, but the agreement she had expected never came.
Puzzled, Jiang Yingcheng looked up, only to find everyone standing rather stiffly.
"..."
Jiang Yingcheng stretched her mouth into a smile that looked worse than crying. "Come to think of it, Chengcheng hasn't seen Imperial Father for most of the day. I miss him sooo much!"
Then her tone abruptly changed. "But! Imperial Father must already be asleep at this hour. Chengcheng shouldn't disturb him!"
With that, she stretched both hands toward Uncle Zhong, hoping to secure an airborne escape.
Boo-hoo, Uncle Zhong, pick Chengcheng up! Hurry and pick Chengcheng up!!
I'm a helpless little weakling! Save me!!
A soft chuckle suddenly sounded behind her.
It was the clear, melodious voice Jiang Yingcheng loved so much, and its owner was the handsome Imperial Father she loved so much, too. Yet this time, that lovely, beloved laugh sent a shiver straight through her.