Because the emperor set a bad precedent, in order to gain support, it was necessary to show that this was just an "accident," the "only one," and that there was no intention to shake the foundation of the empire.
You have to understand, the father always has the upper hand over the son.
Even if you try to shake the position of "father" in the whole world, the fathers won't allow it!
Yanran: "I think that makes some sense."
"And let's wait and see." Cui Xiaoqiu's words were not very clear.
What are we waiting for?
That evening, Qu Hua sent a message to Yanran, angrily stating that she had been placed under Qu Nian. Only then did Yanran vaguely understand what was going on.
It seems Cui Xiaoqiu guessed it.
Qu Hua thought differently; she believed that Cui Xiaoqiu must have told Qu Nian on it.
No matter their age, no man is ever reliable!
Tang Zhuyun also solemnly "warned" Yanran not to even think about going to Liaodong.
They scolded me, but also gave me a sweet treat.
"These next few days, Xiu'er, along with Guagua and your three younger brothers, should be preparing to set off. Stay in the capital and wait for their return."
Yanran was indeed somewhat comforted.
Tang Zhuyun was right; Xiu'er was indeed preparing to leave the border town.
She was talking to Mingzhu.
"What are you really thinking?" Xiu'er asked Mingzhu. "Are you leaving or not?"
"I'm not leaving," Mingzhu said without hesitation.
"So, you're planning to just end things with Wu Zhenhai like this?"
Mingzhu was silent for a moment, then nodded. "That's fine."
"His Majesty is busy now, but he will definitely grant you the title of princess after he's done," Xiu'er said. "His Majesty is very kind to everyone around him!"
Mingzhu said, "I know, my brother is very well, very well."
"You should call him Imperial Brother!" Xiu'er solemnly reminded her.
"No, no," Mingzhu, her slender, fair fingers gently stroking the teacup, her gaze resolute. "He is my elder brother. There is no princess. I am Huo Mingzhu."
"Are you stupid!" Xiu'er exclaimed, "Don't you want something that's free!"
"No." Mingzhu's attitude was firm.
She had already figured this out long ago.
"My brother has already had a hard time," Mingzhu said. "My mother and my existence are no honor to him. Rather than being pointed at and gossiped about, it's better to remain silent. Xiu'er, I'll stay here with my mother and won't cause any trouble."
That's all she can do.
Xiu'er said, "You're guarding Wu Zhenhai, are you also thinking about him guarding the border, keeping an eye on him?"
Mingzhu smiled and said, "Not entirely. Sister Xiu'er, I may be cold-hearted, but people aren't plants or trees; how can they be without feelings?"
"Tsk tsk, Old Cabbage Stalk has been transformed into an old ginseng?"
"It's still the same Old Cabbage Stalk; I'm just used to it."
Cabbage and radish are essential.
"Several years have passed between us. Time can't be turned back," Mingzhu smiled. "The other day, I noticed that Wu Zhenhai actually has gray hair."
"If Wu Zhenhai knew that white hair works, believe me, he would have already tried to dye his hair white," Xiu'er joked.
"I schemed a lot against him, but put in very little effort; he was attracted to my youth, but he wasn't entirely without feelings. Xiu'er, do you think I'm his downfall?"
"Whether it's a blessing or a calamity, only Wu Zhenhai can decide." Xiu'er patted her hand resting on her lap. "I know your decision."
Whatever the reason, it's good that a decision has been made.
"Xiu'er, I've already written to my brother to explain my feelings. But I'm afraid of him, and he'll still take care of me... When you get back, please tell him for me that his feelings for me are more important than anything else."
As she recalled the past, tears welled up in Mingzhu's eyes.
"My mother was born and raised here, and she doesn't want to leave the border town," Mingzhu said. "The border should be safe for the next ten years or so, with Wu Zhenhai guarding it. Please rest assured, brother. If he has any disloyal intentions, I will not let him go."
Xiu'er chuckled, "That's how it should be. The more assertive you are, the better he'll treat you."
Mingzhu smiled too.
"Will you have his child?" Xiu'er asked tentatively.
"We'll have children, and many more," Mingzhu said. "I'll feel so empty after you all leave."
She had always thought she didn't like children, but now she adores several of them, and even takes great care of Wu Yu with great patience.
"Alright, let's have more sons," Xiu'er said. "We all have to prove ourselves, like the Empress! Let's have more sons, and then let others talk about having many descendants, we'll just slap them in the face!"
Mingzhu chuckled, "I don't want to live in the capital forever, but that doesn't mean I can't come to see you in the future. Xiu'er, you and your husband must take good care of yourselves."
"Don't worry, don't worry, we're all doing well. When your son grows up and takes over the family business, you and Wu Zhenhai can retire in Beijing. By then, we'll all be old folks, and we can spend our days together basking in the sun, drinking tea, and playing mahjong."
"Okay, then it's settled."
"Mom," Guagua ran in, "Dad's looking for you!"
She is four years old this year, with a small bun in her hair, and a pair of big, bright, watery eyes that are clever and lively, just like Xiu'er.
She was the only young girl in the household, and was showered with love and affection.
However, Guagua is not spoiled at all; he is always cheerful, which makes him even more likable.
"What do you want?" Xiu'er stood up and said irritably, "You're always causing me trouble."
Mingzhu smiled and said, "Brother-in-law is probably packing his things; he has some questions for you. I won't keep you any longer, go on your way."
She saw Xiu'er out, and stood at the door for a moment, lost in thought, before returning.
Life is a journey that must come to an end; to be able to walk hand in hand for a while is already a matter of fate.
However, as soon as she entered the room, she saw Wu Zhenhai sitting on her bed, playing with her hand warmer.
"When did you arrive? I didn't see you anywhere," Mingzhu asked.
"I've been here for a while, and I heard you talking."
Mingzhu: "... Why do you like being a thief so much?"
"I heard you say you wanted to give me several sons." Wu Zhenhai stood up and hugged her, nuzzling his chin against her shoulder. "Ruanruan, I'm so happy."
He's finally managed to tame this Xiaobai.
"Just using you," Mingzhu scoffed.
"I'm willing. At least I have some use. Look around the border town, don't you think I'm the most suitable person to be the general?"
This foundation is far more solid than any emotional foundation.
He's absolutely indispensable.
"Boast."
Wu Zhenhai just smiled foolishly.
Mingzhu sometimes couldn't understand why this old man, who had been around for so many years longer than her, could still be so childish.
"I know you're sad to see them leave, so I'll let you visit your family in the capital sometime in the future. That's your hometown."
He cannot leave without permission.
"Now the question is, Mingzhu, when will you marry me?"