He was a pitiful child, constantly frightened and trembling, almost scared out of his wits, even stammering when speaking.
The King of Yi broke Wan Zhen’er’s heart.
All Wan Zhen’er could do was guard the King of Yi like a mother, never leaving his side, even sleeping while holding him, personally taking care of his clothing, food, and living arrangements, doing everything possible to ensure his safety – lest some loyal dog might suddenly poison his food, causing the King of Yi to die unexpectedly, with no one to help.
That high-ranking official’s fellow townsman very much liked Wan Zhen’er. Four-year-old Wan Zhen’er was clever and articulate, skilled at pleasing others and understanding adults’ concerns. Therefore, he persuaded Wan Gui, saying the imperial court was selecting court ladies, so why not let Wan Zhen’er try?
Wan Zhen’er’s mother cried repeatedly, reluctant to let her young daughter go.
Wan Zhen’er also cried, unwilling to leave her family.
But Wan Zhen’er’s father said that rather than waiting to die together, they should try their luck. He further explained that although the future could never be predicted, even with a one-in-ten-billion chance, it was still an opportunity. Opportunities are not waiting to be received, but must be seized and pursued.
So, Wan Zhen’er followed that high-ranking official’s townsman to the capital to try her luck. Wan Zhen’er indeed entered the palace and became a palace maid. But Wan Zhen’er did not rise to prominence.
Now, dreams of leaping like a carp through the dragon gate or becoming a phoenix were beyond even daydreaming. Wan Zhen’er had long abandoned those unrealistic fantasies. Her greatest wish now was to live peacefully with Yi Wang, no longer worrying about seeing the next day’s sun or whether she and Yi Wang would be separated. That would already be a blessing from heaven and ancestors.
Yi Wang looked at Wan Zhen’er and asked, “Aunt, do you miss your home and family?” Wan Zhen’er said, “Yes, very much! I especially miss my mother.”
Yi Wang said: “I listen, I listen to your words.”
Wan Zhen’er said: “You must swear that you will listen to me in the future!”
