Entering Princess Anping's bedchamber, Hu Xiaotian and Wu Jingshan bowed together. "Your subjects, Wu Jingshan and Hu Xiaotian, pay their respects to Your Highness. May you live a thousand years, a thousand thousand years!"
A weak, listless voice came from behind the curtains. "Lord Wu, Little Hu, so you still remember that I exist..."
Wu Jingshan replied in trepidation, "Not a moment passes when this old subject is not thinking of Your Highness's safety..." He glanced at Hu Xiaotian and added, "Lord Hu feels the same."
Hu Xiaotian asked, "What happened to Your Highness? Why are there so many physicians here?"
Princess Anping said, "I don't know why, but I keep feeling weak and shaky, and my heart flutters."
"May Xiaotian come inside and take Your Highness's pulse?"
"No need. I'm tired and want to rest. All of you, leave."
Hearing her voice put Hu Xiaotian somewhat at ease. At least it proved Zijuan was still alive and well. He gave Wu Jingshan a meaningful look, and they withdrew together. Outside, he saw Liu Yucheng waiting there as well. Hu Xiaotian cupped his hands in greeting. "Master Liu, how is our princess?"
"It should be nothing serious, just a chill. I've written her a prescription. As long as she takes the decoction on schedule, she'll be fine." He picked up his medicine chest, ready to leave.
Hu Xiaotian thanked him repeatedly and said respectfully, "Let me see you out, Master Liu."
Hu Xiaotian told Wu Jingshan, "Lord Wu, you and Zhou Mo should stay here and keep watch for now. No one may enter the princess's room without my orders."
Wu Jingshan nodded.
Hu Xiaotian left Qichen Palace with Liu Yucheng. Once they were outside the gates, Liu Yucheng checked that no one was nearby before saying quietly, "Princess Anping