The imperial edict was issued, troops were deployed, and soon it was the day of the military expedition. Even many years later, Wei Linxia would remember standing on the city wall, watching Xi Lin Xuan’s imperial carriage and dragon banner leave through the Zhengyang Gate until they disappeared.
Strangely, before that day, she felt heartbroken and impulsively considered hiding Xi Lin Xuan in the capital or palace. But when she saw him leave, she felt at peace, looking forward to their reunion. Nothing could be hidden from him in the capital or palace; only the grasslands could truly distance him from intrigue.
She touched her pouch, containing two small bells from Xi Lin Xuan. He had never given her a proper gift, so these would have to do. With one person gone, the palace felt empty. Xi Qi had cried at night, causing Wei Linxia great distress. She had Feng Shou bring her many red candles, and whenever she thought of Xi Lin Xuan, she would mold a little one. She knew her craftsmanship wouldn’t match his, but over the years, she would surely improve.
For now, she didn’t need to worry about court affairs. She could use this time to refine her plans, not wanting to fail at any stage.
Author’s note: Crying, how could this kind-hearted mother let someone die…
Chapter 60
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At the end of spring, the last imperial edict arrived from the western border, causing a huge uproar in the court but did not prevent the additional pearl curtains hanging behind the Emperor’s throne and another dragon chair behind the curtain.
The imperial body was transported back to the capital, already unrecognizable due to the hot weather. According to the accompanying eunuch’s proclamation, the funeral would be simple, with the remaining silver sent to the western border to reward the soldiers.
The funeral was not grand because Xi Lin Xuan had only been on the throne for a year and had not built a mausoleum, so he could only be laid in state temporarily at the Qi Mountain Temple.
