Long Xiyue smiled gently. "Everyone has their own destiny. Perhaps I was fated from birth never to remain in Great Kang for long. I am only a woman, unable to serve my country. Ting Zhen, you are a descendant of the Long clan. In the future, you must help shoulder your imperial father's burdens and learn to handle affairs of state."
Long Tingzhen nodded firmly.
Qiqi said, "Aunt, your marriage is actually a joyous occasion. Besides, Great Yong isn't far away. Whenever you have time, you can come back to visit your family. Don't make it sound like we're being parted by life and death."
"Yes, it is indeed a joyous occasion," Long Xiyue said. Endless loneliness showed in her beautiful eyes. Hu Xiaotian saw it, and his heart ached. He silently cursed Qiqi for her utter lack of sympathy. She was watching her own aunt marry into a distant land and become a sacrifice for the Long Family, yet she showed no concern whatsoever. Even Long Tingzhen had more of a conscience than she did. At least he could say a few decent words.
Long Xiyue said, "It's getting late. You should both go back and rest."
Long Tingzhen nodded, gave Qiqi a meaningful look, then rose to take his leave.
Qiqi said, "Hu Xiaotian, come outside with me. I have a few instructions for you."
Hu Xiaotian felt thoroughly irritated. I'm not one of your eunuch attendants. Why are you ordering me around? He glanced at Long Xiyue, who smiled. "If the Little Princess tells you to go, then go. Do you really want her to have you beaten?"
Only then did Hu Xiaotian follow Qiqi and her brother outside.
Long Tingzhen had nothing to say to Hu Xiaotian and left directly after stepping outside. Hu Xiaotian stopped