Hunting Ground 88

  Early in the morning, a magpie perched on the eaves of the palace. The autumn wind was rustling, but the magpie flapped its wings twice, looking spirited and delightful to behold.

  Liu Jin came in and saw his master sitting by the window, and his heart skipped a beat.

  Not until she heard the sound did Huā Yù Rǎn realize that she hadn't sat properly. In modern times, when no one was around, she had gotten used to letting herself relax and didn't expect herself to pretend to be a lady. She jumped onto the windowsill, swinging her two embroidered shoes back and forth.

  "Come in." Hua Xiyan's words made Liu Gugu, who wanted to leave, enter with a stiff upper lip.

  Liu's aunt felt that this master was getting more and more unpredictable, perhaps due to the approaching autumn.

  Huā Yù Yán is a kind of sigh that this half month's past seems like a fleeting dream.

  Half a month ago, the people of Beijing only knew that the imperial court had burned two heinous criminals to death on the execution ground, but they were completely unaware of what really happened behind the scenes. The Hu clan, who had plotted and cursed her to death, got their just deserts, and all other suspects were arrested. The case should have ended there. However, the imperial court did not have time to let its guard down. Further digging up and eliminating the remnants of the Hu clan in the imperial court was a very long-term task. For this reason, the emperor ordered the formation of a special investigation team, led by the Grand Council, which would report daily and ensure that the case would be settled within the year.

  At the same time, the day before yesterday, the husband of Princess Chang's mansion was buried. Due to Princess Chang's plea to the emperor, and ultimately for the sake of unmarried Princess Ji Yao's face, the husband, who was a traitor and could not be buried in the imperial cemetery, obtained a burial site at the foot of Yunling Mountain. The funeral was held according to current regulations. The mansion of Princess Chang did not lack money, and the court would not spend a single penny. This funeral was quite grand. On the day the coffin went out on the street, it is said that the people along the street received a lot of relief grain tickets from Princess Chang. When the emperor heard about the benefits to the people, he turned a blind eye to the husband's funeral.

  In the end, the royal family is like this, everything they do must consider their image. Their image is for the people to see, for the world to see. They know that the Dongling royal family is united and of one mind, whoever wants to overthrow them will not be possible.

  Hua Xiuyan recalled that yesterday, Li Jiuyao came to her place wearing mourning attire and a white jade hairpin on her head. Her usual innocent aura was greatly reduced, making her round face look thinner. Hua Xiuyan wasn't clear what the Empress Dowager had said to her daughter, but judging from Li Jiuyao's reaction, she knew that the Empress Dowager must have told her daughter about her father's intention to kill her. Because Li Jiuyao couldn't continue being so naive and ignorant. The Empress Dowager wouldn't be able to live longer than her daughter, so her daughter should grow up quickly and maturely face any situation. Moreover, at Li Jiuyao's age, she was already of marriageable age. Once married into another family, it would be even harder for the Empress Dowager to do things for her daughter.

  The world's maternal love is fully expressed in the Empress Dowager. Perhaps, for her daughter, she has a poisonous heart and has killed countless people and children. However, towards her only biological daughter, she uses all her heart and soul, leaving behind only a sigh of regret.

  Perhaps the Empress Dowager should feel comforted, for this daughter ultimately acknowledged her efforts. After the death of her husband, Li Jiayao no longer went out frequently and stayed in the mansion to accompany her mother before she got married.

  Yesterday, Li Ji-yao mentioned this to Hua Xi-yan during their meeting: "Imperial sister-in-law, the eldest princess is actually very grateful to you and hopes that one day she can come here to express her gratitude."

  Hua Yu Nian could only think of that day in the residence of the Grand Princess, when she had revealed all these truths one by one without emotion. In fact, what the Grand Princess hated most in her heart was not the Crown Prince, but rather her, the person who had torn apart all the hypocritical and harmonious appearances of this family.

  The Empress Dowager had the Princess say this, and it was probably because she was thinking of her own daughter's future marriage and fate, which would still depend on her. Even if the Empress Dowager didn't ask Huayu Ye to help, how could Huayu Ye not help the kind-hearted Princess who had helped her so much? So, the Empress Dowager's official words were just listened to and ignored.

  "The prince consort has just passed away, and according to custom, the princess must wear mourning attire for three years in the mansion. I don't want to frequently visit the princess's residence, lest I touch on the princess's wound." Huā Xīyàn spoke clearly, not wanting to pretend in front of the princess.

  Li Ji-yao nodded in agreement: "I think so too."

  The emotions hurt by association are not just Li Jiayao's alone.

  Huā Yùyán changed her clothes and asked Liu Auntie: "Has he arrived?"

  Liu Auntie said: "Miss Qi's family heard the empress's decree early on and has been waiting at the palace gate. I'll have someone inform the palace guards to let her in right away."

  When Deng Qi Yun was led in by someone, Hua Xi Yan was already sitting on a high chair, having finished drinking a cup of tea.

  Qī Yún yān stepped over the threshold, his head hung low, wearing mourning attire identical to that of Lí Jì Yáo. He rushed towards her and kowtowed: "Your humble subject greets Your Majesty the Empress."

  "Get up," said Hua Yu Nian.

  Zi Yunyan slowly stood up, lowered his head, and didn't say a word.

  Hanayori was also at a loss for words. What could she say? She wanted to ask her, what about your older brother, Miyako-sama, did he go to the Sakaki residence as I mentioned before? And how is the Sakaki family doing after Madame Sakaki's funeral?

  Mr. Qi continued to work at the Ministry of Officials as usual, and outsiders only knew that Mrs. Qi had died suddenly, on the same day as the husband of the eldest princess. The coincidence was too great, causing some officials who liked to tease Mr. Qi to say: Your wife's departure is actually a blessing, she shares the same date of death with our Eldest Princess's husband.

  Master Qi's face flashed a pale greenish color, and he smiled bitterly: Why not mention the two dead prisoners who were ordered to be burned at the stake by His Majesty that day?

  Qī Yún-yān and Old Master Qī have similar personalities; they are both very self-aware. This point, Huā Xī-yàn had realized a long time ago.

  "Cloud smoke." Hua Xiyuan finally spoke those words.

  Zi Yunyan's body trembled slightly.

  Huā Yù Yán said: "The Emperor and I both know that the Qi family is loyal to the court and the Emperor, so the Emperor has entrusted me to represent the court in expressing our respect for what the Qi family has done."

  "Guilty people, guilty people are those who have done wrong and committed great mistakes. How can they be rewarded by the Emperor and Empress?" Qi Yunyan's voice was a little disjointed.

  Emperors are all the same, especially after having an Empress Dowager Cixi who was duplicitous. Which minister wouldn't be frightened when facing the so-called imperial reward from the court?

  "Whatever the case, Qi Lao will be promoted to a third-rank official in the Ministry of Justice, skipping two ranks. The Emperor himself will inform Qi Lao about this matter. I'm just telling you this in advance."

  "Thank you, Young Lady." Qi Yunyan reined in her horse and bowed again.

  This kind of thing happening again and again, with her own best friend kowtowing to her, was something Huayexuan had never wanted to see before. Sitting in the back seat, one person's loneliness and bitterness, actually wanting to share with others. After the Qi Furen incident, Huayexuan finally understood that if she didn't make things clear, it would only bring endless trouble later on. It was better not to pretend, just be herself.

  After thinking for a moment, Hua Yuxuan said: "From now on, you often come to the palace to accompany me. I will grant you the title of 'Moon Chamber Attendant' and make your father a third-rank official. As for you, after I report to the Emperor, you can be either a fourth or fifth-rank official. What do you think?"

  "Zi Yunyan's words seemed somewhat unbelievable, her eyelashes fluttered slightly as she lowered her gaze: 'A sinner, a sinner fears shouldering such a heavy responsibility.'"

  "The palace says you can handle it, then you can handle it."

  Along with these slightly sharp words, Qi Yunyan hastily knelt down and kowtowed: "Thank you, Your Majesty the Empress."

  "I know you've just received the news and haven't had time to think it through, go back and discuss it with your father. In the future, I hope you and your father will work together wholeheartedly for the imperial court, this is my and the Emperor's wish."

  After hearing her words, Qi Yunyan knocked his head twice again and then retreated out of the house. Hua Xiayan had someone escort her back to the Qi residence.

  The person left, and Hua Yuezhen wandered around the house, thinking about when she was a CEO in modern times. Every time she faced her subordinates, she had to put on a stern face, but after doing so, she felt very tired. So at that time, she didn't really want to be an official. Being an official is a big responsibility, it's not as good as going to the countryside, playing with her little son every day, making dumplings and going wherever she wants.

  The imperial palace is said to be the most revered place in the hearts of ordinary people, but in reality, it is no different from a prison.

  Liu Aunt saw that she was about to go into the courtyard again and hurriedly followed, saying: "Your Ladyship, it's windy outside, put on a coat."

  Hua Yu Yan gazed at the birds flying in the sky and envied her young son.

  Xiao Chi Huo set out a few days ago and was received by Qing Hu, who took him to the Yun tribe to accompany Yun Pi Zi in eating, drinking, and having fun. At that time, when Qing Hu was about to put the child on the horse carriage, all three members of the family, including the child's father, mother, and Xiao Tai Zi Ye, came to see them off personally.

  The little foodie waved goodbye to the three of them with a pleased smile: Bye!

  Especially when facing the emperor himself.

  Afterwards, a certain emperor was depressed for several days in a row. It is said that he still hasn't recovered to this day.

  Xiao Wu brought over two finished kites. Today the wind is strong, and the autumn air is crisp and refreshing, making it perfect for flying kites. It's too depressing to fly them in the palace. Hua Xiuyan ordered someone to prepare a carriage, getting ready to sneak out of the palace.

  The young lady wants to go out of the palace, but the servants can't stop her. Moreover, they will be afraid that if the emperor asks about it, or if something unexpected happens when the young lady goes out. Madame Liu puts on a sorrowful face and advises her not to go.

  As the mistress of the imperial palace, Hua Yexuan had endured for many days. Now that she had finally cleaned up the mess left behind by Empress Hu, it was time for her to take a few days off after completing her work.

  Liu's aunt asked: "If His Majesty asks, how will you respond?"

  "Hua Yu Yan's voice sank: 'If you can't even handle this, then don't stay by my side.' Look at Jade Rong, back when she was by her side, they perfectly coordinated with each other in every move."

  Perhaps one day, Yu Rong will give birth to a child and when the child is older, she will be summoned back to the palace.

  Liu Aunt was indeed frightened by her words and didn't dare utter another word of dissent.

  Xiao Wu stood beside her, holding two paper kites and smiling as he knelt on one knee: "If Your Ladyship is ready, I will bring the carriage."

  This little guy is clever, the carriage is all ready, just waiting for her to give the word.

  "Go on, go and do it." Huā Xīyán waved her hand.

  Before leaving, Huayu hesitated about whether to take her eldest son out of the palace to play. This young prince studied hard every day, even more diligent than a top student, making his mother feel that not spoiling him was somewhat unreasonable.

  Someone was sent to Guangyang Hall to find out if the young prince is currently in school. The person who went to ask returned quickly and replied: "His Highness the Crown Prince accompanied the Emperor on business this morning and has not returned."

  This father is very dedicated to raising his son, going out to play and never forgetting to bring his son, but absolutely forgetting to bring his wife.

  With this father's unrighteous behavior in front of her, she no longer had to be cautious and directly slipped out of the palace.

  Xiao Wu led a horse-drawn carriage. Hua Xiyue pointed, and except for Lü Cui following her, everyone else stayed in the palace. With Xiao Wu driving and guarding, one was enough. Any more would be useless.

  As soon as this order was given, Lin Xuanji's two followers, Zhuoyue and Zhuiying, both turned pale with fright.

  Huā Yùyán jumped onto the horse carriage and reminded Lǜ Cuì to bring some silver coins in preparation for buying things in the bustling city.

  Xiao Wu flicked his whip and the unassuming horse carriage, which looked no different from those of ordinary citizens, moved forward and exited the palace gates.

  Liu Auntie and others, watching her leave like this, one by one became a little flustered, but when it came to reporting to the Emperor, they all looked hesitant. After being with her for so many days, everyone had some feelings about Hua Xiyan, the biggest feeling was that this master hated those who were not most loyal to him the most. Who dares to inform on her, waiting to be skinned by Hua Xiyan.

  Lü Cuì was pouring tea for Huā Xīyàn in the carriage. Huā Xīyàn lifted the curtain with her left hand and looked out at the streets of the capital city. The air rushing towards them carried the smells of baozi, jiaozi, and jianbing, as well as incense, which was a stark contrast to the dull, stifling smell of dust in the imperial palace. That father-son pair was indeed clever, leaving the palace early that morning and abandoning her alone with the palace's dusty air. Not even thinking about what day it was today.

  "Master, are you thinking of taking a stroll in the market?" Little Wu knew she might want to buy something here and suggested stopping the horse carriage.

  Huā Yù Yán had almost forgotten how many years it had been since she last strolled through the market. The last time didn't count, when she was sneaking out of the palace with snacks. At that time, every moment was spent thinking about escaping, who would have thought about strolling around? Now, thinking back to those interesting times, thinking about her expression of disdain towards him, the more she thought about it, the funnier it became. Perhaps, not remembering him at the time was a full manifestation of another underlying personality of hers.

  On the other hand, she was a bit disgusted by him, and disgusted by Yun Pianzi's pretentious personality. In her opinion, his biggest flaw had already been vividly described by Xiao Chi Huo: Facial paralysis man!

  No one is perfect. I'm sure she has some shortcomings that annoy him from time to time. As a couple, they face each other almost every day, who wouldn't get annoyed after a while? For example, her father, Gong Taishi, and her mother, Madame Gong, were the same. What she remembered most was when Madame Gong would complain in private, saying that whenever her father went out for an extended period, his feet would smell like foxes, so bad that it would keep Madame Gong awake all night.

  So, couples who quarrel and complain to each other actually have deeper feelings. If they are like the Princess and her husband, treating each other with courtesy but hiding ulterior motives, they will eventually run into trouble.

  Get off the horse carriage and let Lü Cuì put on the money bag. Led by two servants, Huā Xī Yán wandered aimlessly in the market first. So many years have passed, she remembered that there was a gold shop, which made pretty good longevity gold bars. Thinking of her father's upcoming birthday, she wondered if she could go back to celebrate with him, but gifts had to be sent anyway.

  Into the memory of the golden shop, I saw the old boss again. The front desk cashier had changed, didn't recognize her, and the price was market price, which was okay. Hua Xiuyan didn't care too much, ordered two auspicious gold bars. According to Dongling's customs, the Fu character on the gold bar cannot be written casually, it is best to ask the oldest elder in the family or a famous old longevity star in the city to write a word, and then bring it to the craftsman for copying. Hua Xiuyan could only pay the deposit first, and then go find the old longevity star in the city.

  Next to the gold shop is a teahouse. Today, it seems that there are no storytelling performances in the teahouse, only customers drinking tea and sitting inside. Due to its good location, the teahouse is bustling with activity and very lively.

  Huā Yùyán was thinking about whether to go in and have tea, but ultimately didn't choose to go in because she had little time and wanted to go to the suburbs to fly a kite. Just as she turned back on her heels, she saw the sedan chair of the Gong family. Linglong was holding something and was about to enter the teahouse when he ran into her, hastily bowed his head, but didn't dare call out loudly: "Miss."

  "Are my father and mother in the teahouse?" asked Hua Xueyan.

  Linglong said: "The old master has just returned, the madam thought that the old master had not been to the street for many years, and took the old master out to drink tea."

  Looking out from the second floor of the tea house, it seems that you can see the shadow of Mr. and Mrs. Gong. Mr. and Mrs. Gong have always been a couple who work together in harmony, when they go out, they sit opposite each other, one person, one bowl of tea, very dignified and proper.

  Gong Taishi had just passed the crisis in the capital a few days ago and got the emperor's permission to come out of Lingyuan Temple, return to the capital, and temporarily not report for duty at his original unit. The Holy One hoped that he could make up for the family affection first. Madame Gong did not know what happened to herself that day because no one planned to tell her. After waking up, she learned that her daughter had been allowed by the Holy One to return home once and sat on the bed, holding Huexiong's hand.

  Unlike Mrs. Guo, who asked her questions as soon as they met, the father and daughter chatted on and on, saying a lot of things that had accumulated over the years. Mrs. Guo didn't say a word, just holding her hand.

  Huayu felt a sense of being driven by an invisible whip from behind, as she met her mother's calm gaze.

  Don't think that everything will be fine from now on and that every day will continue to be good. If you're not careful, she'll follow in someone else's footsteps at any time.

  The mother and daughter sat quietly for a while, then she was sent back to the palace by Empress Dowager. Later, it was said that her brothers were all scolded by their mother. It's not like they're in mourning, there's no big deal at home, how can a queen and the master of the middle palace go back to their maiden home for the night? Is this going to make the officials of the imperial court suspect that the emperor and empress are not on good terms?

  The queen would rather be summoned by the emperor to see her in the palace as a subject than allow her to return home to pay respects to her elderly parents.

  Huā yù yán chuí xià méi, shōu huí shì xiàn, zài fù mǔ méi fā xiàn qián lí kāi. Fù mǔ nán dé zhè yàng qīng jiān yú kuài de zǎo chén, tā dāng nǚ ér de, zěn néng rěn xīn pò huài.

  Translation:

  The flower-like girl lowered her eyebrows and withdrew her gaze, leaving before her parents noticed. It was a rare morning of leisure and joy for her parents; how could she bear to ruin it as their daughter?

  Reminded Linglong not to mention what she happened to pass by. If it's said, the imperial concubine is afraid that she will be tied back to the palace with a rope.

  Lu Cui, in order to change her mood, pointed to a nearby perfume shop and said: "There are many people here, Master, take a look."

  The perfume shop should be new, Huayexuan remembered that it was a noodle shop before. There are still many customers coming in and out, not only female customers but also male customers. The perfumes used by the harem in the palace were all tributes. Whatever she wanted, someone would make it for her. But even those underlings didn't know what she wanted. So occasionally strolling through the market, they could see how the lives of ordinary people had changed.

  Xiang powder is also known as powder. The most famous one is the goose egg powder that was once used by Ci Xi and got angry when it was all used up.

  These cosmetics must contain a lot of heavy metals. After studying modern knowledge, Huayu uses less makeup. Unless attending a banquet, she doesn't have to use it. Normally, she faces the sky with a plain face, and he doesn't seem to dislike her for that. As a woman, as long as her husband has no objection, dressing up too beautifully will instead make her husband resentful, suspecting her of flirting with other men.

  As the crowd flowed into the perfume shop, the store was not large, but various perfumes and lip balms were filled with shelves, which was a feast for Lin's eyes. Upon closer inspection, it was found that they were not local perfumes from Dongling, but came from Dayuan. In recent years, after the ceasefire and re-establishment of trade relations with Dayuan, merchants from Dayuan have been making a fortune in Dongling. Who let the perfume from Dayuan be cheap and beautiful? Hua Xiyue had never used perfume from Dayuan before, so she picked one up and put it in her palm to try it out, while asking Xiao Wu, who had dealt with Dayuan before: "Why do they make this stuff cheaper than us in Dongling?"

  Xiao Wu said: "The queen doesn't know. Dawan produces a lot of stones. There are all kinds of stones, unlike Dongling which only produces jade."

  Jade is expensive, Dongling exports it and makes a lot of money. The stones from Dayuan are not as valuable as jade, but they can be used as ingredients for incense powder or building decoration materials, and are also welcomed by various countries.

  Huā Yùyán tried it on, feeling that the lead was quite heavy and not very likable. She put the thing down and just as she was about to turn around and leave, the shopkeeper came out from inside, wearing a big Tartar national costume, leather hat, fox fur shoulder pad, and riding boots, asking her: "Miss doesn't like it? I have even better ones inside."

  It's probably because there isn't a single customer in the store who doesn't praise their goods, and suddenly she appears, looking at things and then leaving, which makes the other person feel strange or embarrassed, so they stare at her and ask.

  Huā Yùyán turned around, this time carefully examining the man. He saw that it was a twenty-year-old man with facial features characteristic of the Da Yan people, with deeper facial bones than those from Dongling, and somewhat Western in appearance, his bright green eyes shining like emeralds. Everyone knows that Western men are handsome, with delicate white skin when young, just like beautiful women.

  The man leaned leisurely with one hand on the doorpost, his legs crossed, and the other hand touched the leather hat on his head. He looked somewhat unruly. However, a kind of nobility involuntarily leaked out from his eyes.

  Huā Yù Cǎi glanced at Xiǎo Wǔ, and Xiǎo Wǔ shook his head, saying he didn't recognize the person.

  "It's not that your store's things are bad, it's just that I, this young lady, lack interest in fragrances and cosmetics."

  "It's clear that the young lady is naturally beautiful, with a radiant complexion. Cosmetics and makeup are merely icing on the cake for someone as lovely as her. Whether or not she uses them doesn't really matter. Of course, if she did use them, perhaps she would be even more stunning." The man smiled, his teeth hidden, but his eyes sparkling like those of a smiling beauty.

  This man is no less handsome than Xiao Wu.

  Huā Yùyán's lips pursed slightly.

  "Thanks for the auspicious words. This young lady has self-awareness, and is a national treasure, one of the three great beauties in the world." She bowed her head, not wanting to engage in further conversation with this person, lest she be persuaded into buying something she didn't want.

  He turned around and said, "Why don't I give you a few boxes of free perfume and lipstick to try?"

  "Why must the shopkeeper be so extravagant?" Hua Xiyuan was forced to turn her head and answer this sentence, when a small servant had already taken out several boxes of fragrant powder and rouge from inside, following the man's orders, and presented them in front of her.

  To be honest, if you don't take something that's given to you for free, it goes against her principles.

  The man saw a hesitant look on her face and smiled: "Miss, after using it, if it's good, I'll let our store promote it, and our store won't lose out."

  Let's talk about it first, okay? We'll have to wait and see. The main thing is that the little servant opened one of the boxes for her to see, inside which was a porcelain bottle filled with green stuff, saying it was something made from natural fragrant grass, similar to modern green cosmetics, which piqued her interest.

  Let Green take over things and walk out of Xiangfen shop.

  Xiao Wu walked behind her with a whip in his hand and asked: "Your Majesty, are you going to leave the capital next?"

  It's about time, if we don't leave now, we won't even need to release the kite later. Hua Xiyuan jumped onto the horse carriage after Xiao Wu lifted the curtain and instructed, "Leave the city."

  The horse carriage is heading out of the west city gate.

  On the other side of the suburbs, the mountains are not high, it's a hilly area. Climbing to the top of the mountain is perfect for flying kites.

  Sitting in the carriage on the way out of the city, I thought about the last time I accompanied the emperor out of the city, sympathizing with the people and understanding the epidemic situation. According to what her brother said later, the epidemic has been temporarily brought under control. The people who abandoned the dead bodies at the source were caught, two of them were arrested, and the rest are on the run. The captured people confessed that they were ordered by someone named Shi Daren to do so, saying that if they did so, their family members' illnesses could be exorcised.

  Huā Yùyán let the green curtains open, gazing out for a few moments. The porridge factory and Rén Xīn Zhāi's relief station were still occasionally visited by people.

  The horse carriage stopped at the foot of a mountain. Huayexuan changed into a pair of boots and men's clothes, then brought Yinger and Xiao Wu up the mountain together.

  Autumn is approaching, and the trees on the mountain are beginning to turn yellow and shed their leaves. The withering of the crops accompanies the ripening of the golden wheat and the bountiful harvest, evoking a sense of awe at the cycle of nature. This year, reports from all regions indicate that it will be a bumper harvest. The emperor's countenance is filled with joy, and when the time comes for the grand ceremony of the autumn hunt to offer sacrifices to our great ancestors, we must make it even more magnificent, to comfort our ancestors and express gratitude to heaven.

  Climbing to the top of the mountain, Huā Xī Yán found a relatively flat area and sensed the direction of the wind. Lǜ Cuì, unlike her and Xiǎo Wǔ, was already exhausted and sat on a small rock, wiping sweat.

  Little Wu held the kite and started running, releasing his hand. The kite, shaped like a swallow, caught a gust of wind and soared into the sky.

  Huā Yùyán held the kite string, feeling that the wind was a bit strong, and didn't dare to pull hard. Even so, the string snapped into two pieces with a loud crack after a gust of strong wind.

  Xiao Wu stared blankly at the kite as it flew farther and farther away, just like a swallow flying out of the imperial palace never to return.

  Huā Yù Yán only regretted bringing two paper kites, looking at this situation, should have brought a whole box.

  "Wait until the wind dies down a bit," said Xiao Wu.

  There's only one left, and the fun has just begun. Huā Xīyàn looked sulky and said, "Let's go find a place with less wind."

  The master says go where, everyone can only follow.

  Huā Yù Yán walked into the woods, only looking for a place with little wind. After walking for a long time, she finally found an open space. Here, there was a lush green meadow, and in the distance, the mountains were shrouded in mist, making it a picturesque scene.

  Not releasing kites, just lying down here, looking at the scenery, it's all worth it. How did I not know there was such a good place before?

  Huā Yùyán thought for a while and seemed to feel vaguely familiar with something. Never mind, let's fly the kite first.

  Xiao Wu continued to hold the kite high, running on the grass. When he let go, due to the wind not being strong enough, the kite fell several times. After trying hard for a long time, finally, another swallow slowly rose into the sky.

  This place, the wind is not strong, but the wind force and direction are stable. Once the kite flies up, it doesn't take much effort to operate, and you don't have to worry about the string breaking suddenly. Huā Xīyàn's hand was lightly holding the weightless string, and she even felt a little sleepy.

  Find a small rock as a pillow, lie on the grass, like lying on cotton. The little finger is hooked and pulling the rope, looking up at the blue sky and white clouds, how much of life is carefree and leisurely, she is almost drunk.

  Married with children to raise, and managing a large country as well - this life truly doesn't have many idle moments like these leisurely times. Narrowing my eyes, I pretend to sleep.

  At this moment, Lü Cuì was resting well, walking back and forth, helping her pick some wildflowers to put in a vase. Xiao Wu sat cross-legged on the grass, folding some grass roots, making some small trinkets for the young master.

  Quietly and calmly, time slipped away like a gust of wind, with no one noticing anything out of the ordinary. Until suddenly, the rope that Huayexuan's small hands were holding onto went slack with a snap, losing all tension.

  Xiao Wu jumped up like a grasshopper.

  An arrow pierced through the thin paper kite.

  Huā Yù Yán threw away the half-length of rope in her hand and immediately flashed behind the rock. Xiao Wu picked up Lǜ Cuì, took two or three steps to fly over, and stood beside her.

  Hiss.

  Another arrow came, this time chasing a small roe deer that ran out of the woods.

  It doesn't seem like an enemy raid, it's more like someone is hunting around here.

  Huā Yèyán's eyelid twitched, and she suddenly thought of something. She cried out "Not good!" and was the first to run towards the nearest woods. Xiǎo Wǔ and Lǜ Cuì didn't understand what was happening, but they could only follow her in flight. Seeing that it might be too late to escape, Huā Yèyán hastily spotted a large tree with leaves that hadn't all fallen off, which could provide cover. She quickly grasped the branches with both hands and climbed up onto them, hiding her entire body within the massive canopy of the tree. Xiǎo Wǔ picked up Lǜ Cuì and flew up into another nearby large tree, imitating Huā Yèyán's actions to hide as well.

  The sound of horseshoes echoed from afar and drew near.

  A team of spirited horses, surrounding a small white horse, appeared on the grassland where Hua Xiyue had just flown her kite.

  The young prince sat on the white horse, with a face as smooth as jade, wearing a royal riding suit with white and gold threads. His small features were finely carved, his slender eyebrows were elegant and majestic, revealing a hint of dragon-like power.

  Xiao Wu and Lü Cui were both stunned: Isn't this their family's young master? How did he rush here? Could it be that he knows his mother is here?

  The young prince didn't know that his mother was here flying a kite, with a golden quiver on his back, holding a specially made small bow in one hand and the reins in the other, chasing after the fleeing spotted deer.

  Lema drew out another arrow and placed it on the bowstring, her eyes narrowing seriously as she locked onto the escaping mule deer in front of her.

  The sika deer saw the crisis approaching again and ran desperately into the woods.

  The white-feathered arrow that identified the royal family flew out, but it was slightly hesitant, brushing past the small antlers of the plum blossom deer, and the arrow cluster pierced into the tree trunk.

  The young prince had to put down his bow and arrow, and let out a soft sigh. He had already shot three arrows, but not even touched the deer's fur.

  Lin Xuanji, who was both a teacher and a guardian to the young prince, rode up on his Fire Dragon Horse, Warfire Maiden, and said to the young prince, "Your Highness is too kind-hearted, your marksmanship is not a problem."

  The young prince heard this and his eyebrows furrowed even more tightly. As an emperor, he may have to lead troops into battle in the future, how can he afford to be soft-hearted on the battlefield? At that time, it won't just be him who dies, but also all his ministers who follow him.

  "This palace will try again, General Lin is watching." The young prince said with a serious face, and pulled out another arrow from his hand. This time, it seemed to be shot blindly into the forest.

  Hiss.

  Lu Cu heard the sound of the arrow being shot and felt a chill run down her spine.

  This arrow is different from the previous three arrows, and it has accumulated a killing aura.

  Lin Huanqi waved her hand, and the cavalry beside her rushed out. Soon, from the direction of the arrow shot, a rabbit that was shot to death by an arrow was found in the bushes.

  The little rabbit was lifted in front of the young prince.

  The ministers around the young prince all congratulated him, saying that this time he had gained something from his expedition.

  The young master was slightly dissatisfied with this and spat out: "Originally wanted to give mother a deer horn, now can only send a rabbit hair."

  The young prince comes out to play and doesn't forget to bring her back a gift. Hua Yexi, as the mother, secretly listens and nods: My son is filial!

  "Your Highness, it's almost time for lunch. The Emperor is probably waiting for Your Highness to return." Lin Xuanji bowed and said.

  The young prince heard this and nodded his head, turning the little white horse to go back. Suddenly, the small head that was going back turned around again. Hua Xiyan could feel her son's gaze shooting over, like an arrow he had just shot, sharp beyond compare, quickly locking onto her body.

  She held her breath and pressed her hand against her chest, where her heart was pounding.

  "Your Highness?" Lin Xuanji's eyes also turned in that direction as she sensed something unusual about the young master.

  Three people hiding in the tree, like fallen leaves trembling with fear, praying desperately in their hearts.

  "It's nothing, I was just looking at the sky and feeling that the weather is great, the wind is also good. I thought maybe Mother was flying a kite in the palace courtyard." The young prince withdrew his gaze, slightly raised the corners of his mouth, and turned back to face forward.

  Lin Xuanqi furrowed her brow slightly at the young master's words, feeling that the young prince was saying something about someone.

  The royal hunting party is gradually withdrawing.

  Huā Yùyán lifted her sleeve and wiped away two large beads of sweat from her forehead.

  Green Qing's soul was shocked and she almost fell from the tree. Xiao Wu quickly grabbed her clothes.

  "Are you going back, Princess?" asked Little Five.

  Go back, of course go back. Hua Xiyuan gave him a look that was full of nonsense. If he didn't go back and stayed any longer, if someone found out, it wouldn't be fun anymore.

  Three people climbed down the tree, but suddenly heard the sound of horseshoes flying over again. This time it was from behind them that they came out to kill. The three people were stunned and could only re-climb the tree in a flurry.

  The poor sika deer that had narrowly escaped from the young prince's hands was again subjected to a fatal pursuit.

  This time, the arrow shot out did not have the kind of pity that Xiao Taizi had in his heart. The cold light emitted by the arrow cluster directly pierced through the head of the plum blossom deer.

  Even Hua Yuezhuang and two others who were watching from a distance felt it was too cruel.

  A chestnut horse flashed across their line of sight, the cavalryman on its back wearing a leather hat and fox-fur shoulder pads, riding at full gallop, stretching out his hand to grab the arrow while simultaneously lifting up an entire sika deer, shouting loudly: "Second Prince, it's a deer!"

  Huā Yèyán suddenly remembered that the other day, Liú Gūgu had mentioned that a envoy was sent from Dà Yuān to pay tribute to the Eastern Mausoleum, and it seemed that it was the Second Imperial Son. Huā Yèyán had only seen the Third Imperial Son who looked as sly as a snake. She didn't know what the Second Imperial Son of Dà Yuān looked like.

  It seems that today the emperor went to the royal hunting ground, yes, this is a small hunting ground of the royal family. In the past so many years, she almost forgot about this place and only remembered it now. The emperor came here to hunt, bringing his son and also inviting some foreign guests along the way. There are not only the second prince of Da Wan, but also...

  Huā Yùyán looked out from among the leaves and soon discovered a familiar face.

  She still remembers this face even if it turns into ashes because she is holding onto his IOU and he hasn't paid her back until now.

  The wise king, for some reason, has been staying in Dongling and is not in a hurry to return to Baichang. Today, he wore the riding attire of Baichang and accepted the invitation of the Tianzi of Dongling to come hunting. After arriving, it was only then that he knew, originally Lizi Mo was not very willing to accompany the Dawan people on the hunt, so he let him take his place.

  The people of Dayuan are a nomadic nation, with fiery tempers. The second prince of Dayuan is even more so. It's said that in the second prince's palace, all that hangs on the walls are animal skeletons and skulls.

  The so-called wise king, who was said to be eight-faced and clever, had accompanied the second prince of Da Yan, Ye Lu Qi, for less than half a day, but he already felt like he couldn't bear it anymore, feeling nauseous and wanting to vomit. Ye Lu Qi, in just a short period of time, swept through this hunting ground like a hurricane, and could be called a butcher king without exaggeration, having killed over a hundred animals, regardless of age, as long as they were seen, they were killed.

  "King Xian." Yelü Qi gazed at the small deer held by his subordinate, thinking it was too small to take for himself. He then thought of King Xian who had accompanied him for half a day without gaining anything, so he said, "This deer, I'll give it to King Xian instead."

  The wise king looked at the deer brought before him, one eye had been shot through, and the other eye was wide with terror, he felt another wave of nausea, his face flashed a hint of pallor. However, he didn't dare to refuse Yelü Qi.

  A gust of wind, rustling, sweeping through the leaves.

  Huā Yùyán closed her eyes, thinking it was over. This group of people were getting too close, they didn't have time to move, and it was hard to guarantee that they wouldn't be discovered.

  As expected, Yelü Qi looked up and shouted in the direction they were hiding: "Who's there?"

  The wise king followed him with his head raised, his eyes slightly narrowed.

  Yelü Qi was in a precarious situation, and with bow and arrow in hand, he immediately drew back and took aim.