Chapter 588: The Peasant Girl’s Splendid Manor
Chapter 588: Undercurrent (1)
The Sixteenth Prince had a relatively humble background; his mother was only a consort of the fifth rank, making him one of the lowest-born among the princes. However, his cute appearance and generally well-behaved nature had won him some affection from Emperor Huian. Due to his young age and lack of powerful backing, the older princes did not see him as a threat, allowing him to live a relatively peaceful and carefree life in the palace.
If this unremarkable young prince had made such a request only in front of Xiao Ruiyuan, Xiao Ruiyuan could have easily refused. But in the presence of Emperor Huian, he had to remain silent.
Emperor Huian looked at the Sixteenth Prince, whose eyes were full of hope, and smiled faintly. "Little Sixteenth, there are many skilled archers present, not just General Xiao. Why do you specifically choose him? I heard you've complained to your study companions about how General Xiao's stern expression scares you, like a mouse before a cat. Are you not afraid of him now?"
The Sixteenth Prince's round face turned bright red. Nervously glancing at Xiao Ruiyuan and seeing no sign of anger, he breathed a sigh of relief and smiled, "Father, that was when I was younger and didn't understand. After hearing many stories about General Xiao's bravery in battle, he's become my hero. So, of course, I'm not afraid of him now! I want to follow General Xiao on this hunt to see his archery skills up close and learn from him. One day, I want to be like him, defending our great Chu's lands and people!"
His voice grew more excited, and noticing the smiles around him, he sheepishly scratched his head and glanced at his hero, only to be disappointed that the hero wasn't looking at him.
Seeing the child's aspiration mixed with innocence, Emperor Huian's smile deepened. "I'm glad to hear you have such ambitions. Very well, you may go with General Xiao this afternoon. But hunting can be dangerous, so you must behave and not cause trouble for him."
The Sixteenth Prince almost jumped for joy but quickly restrained himself, bowing respectfully, "Thank you, Father! I promise to be good and follow General Xiao's instructions."
...This novel is translated by the Eternal Novel Hits translators. Please read it at https://www.eternalnovelhits.com....
Emperor Huian laughed heartily and addressed Xiao Ruiyuan, "General Xiao, I'll leave the Sixteenth Prince in your care. If he misbehaves, let me know, and I'll ensure he's properly punished."
Xiao Ruiyuan stood and replied respectfully, "Yes, Your Majesty."
Several other young princes around ten years old, who idolized heroes, couldn't resist the temptation to witness Xiao Ruiyuan's skills firsthand, despite their fear of him. They eagerly stood up and requested permission to join the hunt.
In a good mood, Emperor Huian readily agreed and assigned thirty imperial guards to accompany them for protection.
As he watched the joyful young princes, Xiao Ruiyuan's brow furrowed slightly. He glanced across the table at Chu Heng, meeting his gaze momentarily before they both looked away, a silent understanding passing between them.
Prince Heng, seated beside Chu Heng, smiled as he raised his cup, hiding the malice in his eyes.
No matter how cautious you are, this time, you won't escape!
After the midday meal, Xiao Ruiyuan returned to his tent for a brief rest. Soon, at the urging of the young princes, he grabbed his bow and mounted his horse, leading them towards a nearby forested area with gentler terrain.
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