C8 Savior
In a daze, another day passed.
A light rain fell in the morning, and Yanwu had barely slept all night. She intended to call for Lvyu but ultimately summoned Suxiang to attend to her.
After freshening up and having a light breakfast, Yanwu decided to take a stroll with Lvyu.
There was a gentle coolness in her heart, where the peony pendant used to rest at her waist. It was the only keepsake she had to remember Hongxiang. Even though Hongxiang was gone, Yanwu would always remember her, as everything she had now was thanks to Hongxiang.
But when she woke up this morning, the peony pendant beside her pillow felt chillingly cold, with a hint of purplish-red bloodstain, suggesting Hongxiang had truly left.
Yanwu's wandering thoughts were interrupted by Lvyu's voice.
"Princess, you're not strong enough to wander too far. It's best to stay here, or you might catch a chill. It's getting colder these days, and you should take care of yourself," Lvyu said, gently supporting Yanwu, a slight frown on her brow.
"It's only September. How can it be that cold? Besides, I've just been feeling under the weather lately. Do you think I'm that frail? Aren't you worrying over nothing?" Yanwu replied, her lips curling with a hint of sarcasm, her voice calm.
"I know you've always been healthy, Princess. But it's fall now, and with the rain, you've been unwell these past few days. Staying sick isn't good," Lvyu paused, then smiled. "By the way, today is a special day."
"What do you mean?"
"Don't you know, Princess? Today is the day the Crown Prince of Great Qi visits."
Oh, she had forgotten. Today was the day she was supposed to meet Xiao Zhen. Deep down, she didn't want to remember or see Xiao Zhen.
In her past life, Xiao Zhen had woven a beautiful dream for her, only to shatter it himself. The pain she endured was inextricably linked to him. How could she not hate him?
She couldn't imagine what it would be like to meet again. It would probably be much like before... She no longer held any expectations, only weariness.
"Lvyu, come walk with me to the city tower. It's been a while since I've really looked at the scenery," Nan Yanwu suddenly spoke after a long silence.
"..."
"What is it?" Nan Yanwu fixed her gaze on Lvyu, her eyes so piercing that Lvyu felt a chill run down her spine.
After some hesitation, Lvyu couldn't refuse Nan Yanwu and eventually helped her up to the tower.
At the city tower.
"Greetings, Princess," Jiang Jing said as he saw Nan Yanwu approaching. He was a bit puzzled but quickly stepped forward, offering a respectful salute.
"Rise, General Jiang. Guarding this place is no easy task, and your dedication is well known. You deserve my respect," Nan Yanwu said, bowing deeply.
Jiang Jing was taken aback by her gesture, unsure whether to stop her or not. "I don't deserve this, Princess. It's my duty, and your courtesy is too much. We mustn't break protocol."
"There's no need for such humility, General Jiang. You've been a great benefactor to this land. Even though I'm not well-read, I know the importance of repaying kindness," Nan Yanwu emphasized the word "benefactor," smoothing her hair with a smile. "If I were to reward you, it might cause gossip. This gesture is light in comparison. Anyway, I just came to take a look. You may go."
Jiang Jing felt uneasy, sensing a deeper meaning in her words, yet he couldn't quite grasp it. He acknowledged her and withdrew.
Jiang Jing... Nan Yanwu narrowed her eyes, a cold smile playing on her lips. The fall of Xiliang had your involvement. If you're loyal, you'll be valued; if not... well, then you'll truly receive the reward you deserve.