Hu Xiaotian said, "We leave on a day ending in three, six, or nine. Originally, we agreed to leave at the end of the month, but His Majesty suddenly changed his mind and told us to prepare early. First, we mustn't delay the princess's wedding on the sixteenth of the third month. Second, we can take our time and see the sights along the way rather than rush. Apparently, he had an auspicious date selected-the thirteenth of the first month is suitable for a bride's departure. Looks like we'll even be spending the Lantern Festival on the road."
Fan Zongxi said wistfully, "This really is an enviable assignment. Brother Hu, you can take this opportunity to admire the scenery along the way. I hear Great Yong's magnificent mountains and rivers are entirely different from Great Kang's graceful landscapes. At this time of year, a thousand miles are sealed in ice and snow drifts across ten thousand miles-the northern scenery is breathtaking. I've always wanted to visit Great Yong myself, but never had the chance."
Li Yuncong said, "His Majesty isn't sending Little Hu there to enjoy himself. Until Princess Anping reaches the Yong Capital, he probably won't be able to rest easy."
Hu Xiaotian seized the opportunity to complain. "Exactly! These are troubled times. I hear famine has broken out in quite a few places, with people raiding grain supplies. The farther north you go, the worse it gets."
Li Yuncong sighed. "Nowhere is peaceful. Take extra care of yourself." Inwardly, however, he thought, You'd better pray for your own good fortune, boy.
Fan Zongxi said, "I don't see anything to worry about. Wen Boyuan is responsible for security on this bridal escort to Great Yong. His martial skills are formidable, and he has both courage and wisdom. With so