Time flew by, and before long, it was April 18th.
The sky was a brilliant blue, cloudless and bright, with warm sunlight pouring down like golden threads, enveloping everything in a comforting glow, as if every pore of the skin was stretching in delight.
At the foot of the mountains outside the imperial city, peach blossoms bloomed vibrantly, as if nature had spilled pink paint everywhere. The gentle breeze caressed the petals, which floated down like dancing butterflies, creating a dreamlike shower of flowers.
The air here was exceptionally fresh, infused with the sweet fragrance of peach blossoms and the earthy scent of soil. The sweetness wafted into one's nostrils, refreshing the spirit and cleansing the mind as if one were bathed in this delightful aroma.
A crowd of dignitaries rushed from the city, each adorned in splendid brocade garments that shimmered as if woven with light. The exquisite embroidery told tales of luxury with every stitch, sparkling brilliantly under the sun like twinkling stars.
Scholars and beauties gathered as well, some composing poetry or painting, their brushes seemingly alive as they danced across the paper; others exchanged flattery with smiles that sparkled with insincerity yet warmth. Laughter echoed across the open space, transforming the tranquil countryside into a bustling marketplace.
Yun Qingyu sat in her carriage as it moved slowly forward, the wheels rolling on the ground with a soft "clop-clop" sound. She remained calm and composed, sitting upright like an iceberg, exuding an aura that kept others at bay.
Xin Yao, dressed in black, sat confidently at the front of the carriage. His posture was as upright as a pine tree, his vigilant gaze scanning the surroundings like a loyal hawk guarding its master, missing no subtle movement in the environment.
He felt honored to share this carriage with Yun Qingyu; it was both his privilege and his duty. His hand rested on his weapon at his waist, ready for any unforeseen circumstances. Although Wen Zhan shared the carriage with Yun Qingyu, he maintained a respectful distance from her.
He sat quietly beside her, elegant in demeanor with legs crossed and hands folded on his knees. Even when surrounded by others vying for attention, he knew how to maintain his boundaries in this private moment and would never encroach upon Yun Qingyu's space. His gaze remained calm and reserved.
Wen Zhan understood well that all affection shown was merely a performance for outsiders.
No matter how rumors spread about the Eldest Princess's infatuation, he could sense that Yun Qingyu had no interest in romantic matters at all. Thus, he refrained from any inappropriate actions and simply sat quietly, occasionally glancing out the window to observe what lay beyond.
Before long, the carriage arrived at the outskirts of the city. Wen Zhan was the first to step down, gracefully leaping from the vehicle. His flowing blue robe danced in the wind, accentuating his tall figure, with the hem resembling lively waves.
Next, he respectfully extended his hand, his arm slightly bent and palm facing up, assisting Yun Qingyu down from the carriage, his gaze filled with just the right amount of respect.
At that moment, someone shouted, "The Princess Consort has arrived!"
The voice was like a stone thrown into a calm lake, instantly shattering the atmosphere. Everyone seemed to receive a unified command, turning their gazes toward Yun Qingyu and Wen Zhan, their expressions varied—curiosity, awe, and jealousy flickered in their eyes.
Wen Zhan leaned slightly forward, bringing his body closer to Yun Qingyu's ear as he quietly warned, "Your Highness, while today's scene appears lively, it is actually somewhat dangerous. You must pay attention to your safety; you have made too many enemies lately. There are bound to be schemers plotting against you in secret. Please be cautious."
His eyes were filled with concern, and his brows furrowed slightly.
Yun Qingyu nodded gently and murmured in acknowledgment.
Her gaze swept across the crowd like lightning, her expression indifferent yet commanding as she surveyed those around her—like a queen assessing her subjects. Indeed, she spotted several familiar faces among them—people with whom she had past connections.
For instance, there was Wen Li, the Eldest Son of the Wen Family, who looked at her with a face full of resentment. His eyes were wide open, burning with anger as if he wished to consume Yun Qingyu with his glare.
Then there was Lu Mingzhan, the Consort she had just dismissed. Yun Qingyu raised an eyebrow in surprise; she hadn't expected him to appear so nonchalant after such a significant loss of face. She wondered whether it was Liang Jingru who had given him this courage or if he simply had such thick skin. He stood there looking somewhat unnatural.
Over there was Ling Jing, self-righteous and ominous. After their previous minor disagreement, he cast a challenging glance at Yun Qingyu, a smirk playing on his lips that carried a hint of disdain.
In addition to them was the Six Princess, who harbored deep-seated hatred for Yun Qingyu and would gladly see her gone. She was whispering something to those beside her, her lips moving slightly while her gaze occasionally darted toward Yun Qingyu—her eyes filled with malice like arrows dipped in poison.
Comment 0 Comment Count