A Foodie Transmigrated into the Palace Chapter 174 - 173: Guangnan
But he wasn’t ready for retirement yet! For a moment, Old Master Xia truly didn’t know whether to cry or to laugh.
No matter what, ever since Xia Ruqing exposed Lady Yao’s vicious deeds, Lady Yao’s days had become more and more difficult. As for Maternal Aunt Wen, her life had improved significantly from before. Her food was better, and her clothing was finer. She seemed rounder, her complexion became more rosy, and she emanated a gentle and peaceful aura, making people feel an irresistible urge to be close to her. Of course, there was another major reason for her better days: her son was impressive!
「...」
That day, Xia Tingfeng obtained the Sword Manual. he thought, and practiced day and night without rest. Finally, his perseverance paid off; he not only understood the manual but also mastered it. Even when he sparred with the Emperor, it took over a hundred moves before he was defeated.
That night, Zhao Junyao watched him for a long time before finally saying, "I said I would give you a chance, and I will!"
Xia Tingfeng’s eyes filled with light as he knelt on the ground with a THUD. "This commoner thanks the Emperor!"
Zhao Junyao thought for a moment and then said directly, "I have thirty-six Hidden Guards. If you can defeat eighteen of them, I will directly promote you to Imperial Bodyguard! How about that?"
"Imperial Bodyguard?" Xia Tingfeng was stunned.
The Imperial Bodyguard was no ordinary guard. Typically, only those with exceptional martial skill, whom the Emperor trusted completely, and who were the direct descendants of a Martial Family, could serve in this capacity. After serving at the Emperor’s side for a few years, one had the chance to lead troops in battle. If one could accrue impressive military achievements, the title of Great General was virtually assured.
he mused.
Xia Tingfeng thought.
He bowed his head, kneeling. "Emperor, this commoner has neither the merits nor the ability to deserve such trust from you!"
Zhao Junyao chuckled. "Are you so confident that you can beat them? Only when you manage to defeat them will you be promoted! For now... at most... you can be an ordinary Hidden Guard!"
Having said that, Zhao Junyao turned around leisurely.
Xia Tingfeng breathed a sigh of relief. However, his heart pounded excitedly, his blood boiled with fervor, and his entire body felt burning hot!
Zhao Junyao and his entourage set out early the next day. Upon arriving at Zhuoshui County, his original intention was merely to vent Qingqing’s frustrations. Unexpectedly, his gains were quite substantial.
「...」
The southern tour had been going on for nearly a month, and all the intended places had been visited. In the following few days, they also went to Qiantang. The original itinerary was to return to the Capital City upon reaching Qiantang. However, on the return journey, Zhao Junyao suddenly felt a strong desire to visit Guangnan! he reasoned. No one in his retinue dared to dissuade him!
Two days later, the group arrived at Guangnan City.
Xia Ruqing was sitting in the carriage, no longer looking around.
Zhao Junyao looked at her and raised an eyebrow. "Qingqing, we’re here!"
Xia Ruqing responded dully, "Oh! Okay!"
After speaking, she listlessly stepped down from the carriage using the stool.
「...」
Upon their arrival in Guangnan, Prince Yan and his son, having received the news, hurried to welcome them. Prince Yan, hindered by his leg, came later in a sedan chair. Zhao Junqi had arrived earlier.
After the customary greetings, Zhao Junqi spoke up, somewhat displeased, "Imperial Brother, this is really not like you, coming without prior notice. You could’ve at least sent a message. Now..." He paused, then added playfully, "Be careful, or I’ll tell the Empress Dowager!"
Zhao Junyao thumped him on the shoulder. "You little rascal, learning to tattle now, are you!"
"Of course! Imperial Brother, it’s your fault for not telling us earlier," Zhao Junqi retorted. "And that’s not all! Upon reaching Guangnan, you choose to stay at an inn! Tell me, do you despise us?"
Zhao Junqi wouldn’t let it go, making it hard for Zhao Junyao to fend off his complaints. Left with no choice, Zhao Junyao had to bring his concubines along to stay at Prince Yan Mansion.
For the next few days, it was essentially everyone wandering around the city together, observing local customs and seeing things not found in the Capital City. Since there was no one else around, it was a bit odd for the two brothers, both grown men, to be out exploring together. Zhao Junqi brought along his recently favored concubine. Zhao Junyao, left with no alternative, had to bring Xia Ruqing with him.
Xia Ruqing thought.
「...」
Walking on the street, Xia Ruqing held an umbrella, walking side by side with Zhao Junqi’s concubine at the back. The two of them exchanged glances; they didn’t know each other at all.