Before Shui’er could finish speaking, Zui’er covered her mouth, carefully checking the surroundings before releasing her and saying: “These things are very strange. Don’t talk nonsense. If you accidentally scare the madam, neither of us will have a good outcome!”
Shui’er nodded timidly and whispered urgently: “I know. Go quickly! The madam has already gone far. Make sure she doesn’t enter the forest alone! I’ll go wait at the main gate and immediately come to notify you as soon as the Prince returns…”
The two assigned their tasks and ran in opposite directions. When Zui’er caught up with me, I had just arrived outside the cherry blossom forest courtyard. The heavy gate was slightly ajar and unlocked, with intertwining branches faintly visible!
It was early April, and only a few cherry blossoms had bloomed. The mottled branches revealed a few hints of deep red!
I walked forward and gently pushed – the door opened immediately! I touched the copper bolt, which was clean without a speck of dust, suggesting someone must frequently visit!
I just want to know who she is.
The forest was quiet, with occasional insect sounds. Fallen cherry blossoms brushed against my face, creating a sense of ethereal confusion. At the end of the cherry blossom grove stood an elegant bamboo building.
I couldn’t help but stop and ask the person behind me: “Zui’er, did someone live here before?”
Zui’er’s gaze was evasive, staring at her toes: “Sorry, madam! Zui’er… Zui’er doesn’t know!”
“Really?” I narrowed my eyes, clearly not believing her.
“Of, of course it’s true!” The young maid grew increasingly nervous, her voice trembling.
I pretended to be angry: “I thought you two were truly loyal to me. It seems I’m still an outsider in this royal mansion!”
Zui’er clutched her sleeve, hastily shaking her head: “Madam, it’s not like that! Zui’er is truly loyal to you!”
I snorted coldly, continuing with a stern face: “Since you say you’re sincere, you clearly know the secrets of the Cherry Blossom Garden. Why won’t you tell me!”
