A Foodie Transmigrated into the Palace Chapter 1165: Three Sons Can’t Compare to a Daughter’s Mischief

Furthermore, the royal prince’s wedding is not a matter that commoners can easily interfere with.

Thus, their wedding was deferred until this year.

...

The Lantern Festival is rapidly approaching.

Before this, Xia Ruqing's most fervent desire was to stay close to Zhao Junyao during the Lantern Festival.

She longed for him to escort her on a grand tour of the Capital City's night market.

To witness a dazzling spectacle of lights, akin to a myriad of stars, and observe the countless lanterns adorning the streets, resembling a vast river of stars beneath the heavens, breathtaking and grand.

To watch fireworks burst like a meteor shower, accompanied by celebratory sounds, ascending into the night sky and exploding into their most glorious moments – fiery trees and silver flowers, a vibrant display of colors.

To behold the spectacular street performances: intricately executed dragon and lion dances, accompanied by lively and thunderous drumbeats; the art of stilt-walking; traditional folk dances; mesmerizing ghost face performances meant to ward off evil; and captivating circus troupes, all transforming the street into an enchanting panorama that leaves one utterly mesmerized.

And, finally, to savor the diverse array of snacks the Capital City had to offer.

First, the perfectly round and succulent dumplings; then, the aromatic steamed buns; followed by the vibrant crimson candied hawthorn; delicate sugar figurines; all of that delicious wonton soup, hearty noodle soup, chewy rice cakes, pungent stinky tofu, crispy fried gluten, and flavorful tea eggs... a culinary journey where one could taste everything imaginable.

These were the aspirations she once held dear.

However, this year, perhaps due to the demanding nature of the year's end festivities, or perhaps because she now mothers four children, her celebratory spirit doesn't quite match previous years.

In essence, she surprisingly finds herself disinclined to venture out of the palace.

Yet, Yue Er, that spirited girl, has been persistently requesting an outing for days.

A mix of laughter and a hint of exasperation filled Xia Ruqing: "Perhaps Yue Er has absorbed all my prior enthusiasm!"

Zi Yue and Zi Su chuckled in agreement.

"Madam, your wit is truly amusing!"

"Indeed, ever since the Princess arrived, you've adopted a much more composed demeanor!"

Xia Ruqing sighed, feeling somewhat cornered.

"It's not about being composed or not!"

"I simply feel too weary to leave the palace!"

"Firstly, there's the constant dilemma of whether to bring the children along!"

"If I take them, I'll scarcely have any time to see or do anything myself!"

"And if I leave them behind, I'll be plagued by incessant worries about their whereabouts! What are they up to? Are they causing trouble or sneaking off!"

"Chenchen, Henger, and Yeye are generally well-behaved, but Yue Er, that little imp, I'm truly... !"

Zi Su's eyes suddenly gleamed with an idea.

"So this is the source of your apprehension, Madam!"

"In that case, simply leave the younger ones behind!"

"You need not fret over the Third Prince and Fourth Prince!"

"As for the Little Princess, entrust her to the Crown Prince's care, and you'll undoubtedly feel at ease..."

Xia Ruqing blinked, momentarily stunned, as if hearing the most absurd proposition.

"At ease?"

"Chenchen would be overjoyed to have Yue Er under his watch!"

"If she misbehaves, he'd likely join her in the very mischief!"

"How could I possibly feel at ease under such circumstances!"

Recounting this brought a pang of coldness to her heart, almost a physical ache.

She had always yearned for a sweet, affectionate daughter.

Only now did the realization dawn: even three sons combined are not as mischievous as a single daughter!

My daughter!

Your mother is already beginning to fret about your future marriage.

...

Initially, there was no intention of venturing out for the Lantern Festival.

However, shortly after noon, Zhao Junyao sent word:

"I've heard the festivities outside are particularly grand this year. I've made all the necessary arrangements!"

Upon receiving this message, Xia Ruqing felt an overwhelming sense of warmth.

One must acknowledge.

The traditional New Year celebrations of bygone eras possessed a richness that far surpassed contemporary festivities.

Modern life is characterized by its relentless pace, prioritizing convenience and speed above all else.

The demands of work and social obligations already render life sufficiently taxing.

Furthermore, with people living far from their ancestral homes and granted only a few precious days off annually, rushing from place to place, how can one truly find the spirit for New Year celebrations?

Yet, the people of ancient times were a different breed.

Their livelihoods were simply categorized into the scholarly, agricultural, artisanal, and mercantile pursuits.

The residents of the Capital City encompassed a spectrum from esteemed officials and affluent landowners residing outside the city walls to common laborers and diligent merchants.

As the New Year drew near, apart from the bustling street shops and market stalls, all households would cease their regular activities. Many individuals from neighboring counties would flock to the city for festive shopping, creating an atmosphere of vibrant activity.

The Lantern Festival, in particular, was an occasion of extraordinary liveliness.

Moreover, this year, the Great Chu Dynasty's decisive victory over Western Xia had quelled border conflicts, not only invigorating the military spirit but also fostering a profound sense of national pride among the populace.

With such a diligent, compassionate, awe-inspiring, and majestic True Dragon King at the helm, the people believed that the Great Chu would undoubtedly flourish, and its citizens would prosper.

The security born from this conviction was a treasure beyond compare, surpassing any earthly wealth.

After a period of contemplation, Xia Ruqing resolved against bringing the children along.

Why risk them getting jostled or hurt during the excursion?!

Furthermore, these outings don't seem to be their cup of tea.

Chenchen, in particular, favors quietude over boisterous gatherings.

Henger and Yeye, especially, scatter like startled rabbits when a throng of people appears.

Yue Er, however... she does revel in the lively atmosphere.

But if Yue Er were to join, ensuring the little one's safe return without a hitch would be a challenge.

Therefore, a collective decision was made: no children shall accompany them!

Xia Ruqing issued her instructions.

"Inform Yue Er's wet nurse that the child is to be taken to the Eastern Palace later! Should we return past the usual hour today, let Yue Er remain there to avoid unnecessary travel."

Zi Yue replied, "Madam, the Little Princess has already been escorted to the Eastern Palace..."

Xia Ruqing paused, then mused, "..." Very well, let's act as if that statement was never uttered.

"In that case, prepare our belongings, change our attire, and let us depart!"

Xia Ruqing rose to her feet.

"Immediately!" Zi Yue and Zi Su responded in unison.

...

As the afternoon shadows lengthened.

An unassuming, modest carriage, painted a discreet green, slipped away from a secluded palace exit, making its way towards the vibrant thoroughfares of the city.

Xia Ruqing was attired in a flowing violet gown, her hair elegantly coiffed in the style of an ordinary Capital City woman. A magnificent set of violet jade ornaments adorned her, complemented by the Purple Jade bracelet on her wrist, which served to further accentuate her fair, radiant complexion.

Zhao Junyao sported a simple, dark-hued robe, with a sapphire silk cape embroidered with wolf motifs casually draped over his shoulders. A jade coronet graced his head, and a folding fan rested in his hand, presenting the image of a wealthy young master hailing from the Capital's esteemed nobility.

While a chill lingered in the air outside, the interior of the carriage offered a welcoming warmth from a charcoal brazier.

Xia Ruqing nestled into Zhao Junyao's embrace, her head resting against him as a gentle drowsiness overtook her.

Zhao Junyao chuckled softly at her state.

"Why are you so overcome with sleepiness!"

"Did you not rest well last night?"

Xia Ruqing let out a yawn and shook her head.

"I slept soundly!"

"It's just... I still feel rather fatigued!"

"A lack of invigorated energy, perhaps?"

"Indeed?" Zhao Junyao inquired, raising an eyebrow.

Xia Ruqing pondered for a moment before answering.

"Perhaps prolonged confinement within the palace walls, without the stimulus of new scenery, has led to a sense of ennui."

Zhao Junyao considered her words and nodded in agreement.

"That is quite plausible!"

"You have certainly not ventured out in quite some time!"

A silent resolution formed in his mind: he must make arrangements to go out more often this year.

Xia Ruqing then posed a question.

"Your Majesty, has the matter with the envoy from Portland Country been settled by Jingfeng? Have they reached an accord?!"

Zhao Junyao conveyed a negative response.

"Not yet!"

"The efficacy of the clay, specifically its suitability for embankment construction, remains undetermined!"

"This issue requires further deliberation!"

"Ah..."

Xia Ruqing acknowledged his statement with a nod and lapsed back into silence.

Soon thereafter, the carriage arrived at the bustling streets of the Capital City.