Zhao Yeqing arrived at the palace hall with an exquisite peach wood box. He elegantly followed the guards into the imperial courtyard. Various pavilions, exquisite and extraordinary, rockeries, and corridors, lake and mountain scenery, pavilions, and towers, beautifully surrounded him. While walking and observing the surroundings, Zhao Yeqing thought his manor was already magnificent, but he didn’t expect such scenery in the imperial city.
What surprised Zhao Yeqing was that Man Hanting received him in casual attire. At the door of a side hall in the palace, the escorting guards stopped. “Young Master, please enter!” They gestured respectfully.
Zhao Yeqing glanced at the guards standing on both sides of the entrance, nodded politely, and strode in.
Man Hanting laughed as Zhao Yeqing entered. “Young Master, accepting my invitation is a great honor for me. Welcome!” He walked to Zhao Yeqing’s side and grabbed his arm.
Zhao Yeqing smiled. He tossed the exquisite box, which landed on the table farthest from the door without making a sound… After showing off, he grasped Man Hanting’s hand, preparing to bow. “This humble one, Zhao Yeqing…”
Before he could finish, Man Hanting quickly pulled him up. “Young Master, no need to be formal! I’ve long heard about you and wanted to meet you. Today, I finally get my wish. I’ve prepared a sumptuous feast. Shall we have a few drinks?”
“I’ve always heard that the ruler of Manyi Nation is wise and open-minded. Meeting you today indeed lives up to your reputation. I’ll be honored to comply.”
“Please!”
“Please!” They said in unison, supporting each other towards the table laden with food and wine…
Just as they reached the table, a voice came from outside: “Your Majesty! Miss Dan has arrived!”
Zhao Yeqing’s heart stirred at these words. Could it be her?
Man Hanting suddenly interjected, “Young Master, General Huyan temporarily sent Xiao Ya to the Demon Kiln, but that is already in the past. In the future,朕 will treat her well.”
Zhao Yeqing was filled with self-blame and guilt. The hand that reached out to caress Shan Xiaoya’s cheek stopped midair and curled into a fist. Before the turbulent emotions could settle, a black-clad figure burst through the window.
