Chapter 560: The Peasant Girl’s Splendid Manor
Chapter 560: Autumn Hunt (1)
The weather had cooled considerably since the onset of autumn, with the oppressive summer heat long gone. Only at noon did the sun still blaze intensely. The group had temporarily stopped in a small grove, conveniently near a small river where the noblewomen could wash their faces and stretch their legs, easing the weariness of their journey.
The Crown Prince's yellow palanquin was parked under a large tree. A gentle breeze lifted the gauzy curtain, revealing a faint silhouette resting against the side of the carriage.
Despite the spacious and comfortably arranged carriage, the rough, uneven roads had made the journey quite difficult, especially for the frail Chu Heng. His face looked even paler, with dark circles deepening under his eyes. Without the spiritual spring water and ginseng slices, he might have already collapsed inside the carriage.
Xiao Ruiyuan sat under the tree, eating dry rations and keeping an eye on Chu Heng, his eyes filled with deep concern.
A group of people approached from a short distance away. The two leading figures were distinguished in appearance and demeanor. One was the third-ranked prince, Prince Heng, favored by the emperor, and the other was the recently married Prince Qi, the seventh prince. They were followed by several younger princes who were still minors and lived in the palace.
Xiao Ruiyuan narrowed his sharp eyes, swallowing the last bite of his dry food before standing up. As Prince Heng, Prince Qi, and the others drew closer, he slightly bowed and clasped his hands in salute. "Greetings to Your Highnesses, Prince Heng and Prince Qi."
Prince Heng, unfazed by the cold formality in Xiao Ruiyuan's greeting, responded politely, "This journey has been peaceful thanks to your efforts, General Xiao. You've worked hard."
Prince Heng was known for his gentle demeanor, humility, and love for his siblings, earning him the title of "Virtuous King" in the court. Compared to the refined yet reclusive Crown Prince, he had a more favorable reputation, making him a strong contender for the position of Crown Prince among the various princes.
...This novel is translated by the Eternal Novel Hits translators. Please read it at https://www.eternalnovelhits.com....
Despite the praise, Xiao Ruiyuan remained expressionless, his voice cold and precise as he replied, "Protecting His Majesty and the Crown Prince is my duty, Your Highness. You flatter me."
Prince Qi, who was not fond of Xiao Ruiyuan's aloof attitude, stepped forward before Prince Heng could speak, his face showing disdain. "What a 'duty.' I thought you were just a dog at the Crown Prince's side, protecting only him and ignoring everyone else!"
Xiao Ruiyuan lowered his eyes and said nothing, not even glancing at Prince Qi, as if the man before him didn't exist.
Seeing himself being ignored, Prince Qi's handsome face twisted with anger. Just as he was about to accuse Xiao Ruiyuan of disrespect, a cold voice interrupted, "Seventh brother, did you come here just to trouble General Xiao?"
Prince Heng and Prince Qi froze, turning to look at Chu Heng, who had opened his eyes at some point.
Prince Heng quickly moved to the carriage window, bowing deeply and smiling warmly. "Second brother, you've misunderstood. Seventh brother admires General Xiao and has no ill intentions."
According to protocol, Prince Heng should have addressed Chu Heng as "Crown Prince" or "Crown Prince Brother," but he never did. He always called him "second brother" when greeting him, which others saw as a sign of brotherly affection. However, those who knew his true nature understood the ambition hidden behind this seemingly affectionate address.
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