Chapter Two

Chu Zhong Si found himself nervously navigating the bustling street on horseback, trailing behind his father. The enormity of the crowd dwarfed any assembly he had witnessed, except on the battlefield. Yet, this was an altogether different experience. The battle at Hezhen was his first real experience of fighting, and even that singular encounter left an indelible mark on him. On the battlefield, indifference reigned—only survival mattered. Here, amidst civilians he fought to protect, a hefty sense of responsibility settled upon him. The gazes of the people around him intensified the pressure on his shoulders.

"That's Chu Zhong Si!"

"What?! That scrawny boy is Chu Zhong Si?!"

Suddenly, his name echoed through the air, and embarrassment painted his face a deep shade of red. Was he truly that tiny? 

Resolving to work harder on his physique, Chu Zhong Si couldn't help but overhear the commentary from the crowd. He tightened his grip on the reins, determined to prove himself not just on the battlefield but also in the eyes of those he swore to defend.

Observing his son's flushed state, General Chu Mu Yang slowed his horse to ride alongside him.

"A'Si, you're more famous than I am!"

The man chuckled but winced in pain.

"Dad, are you okay?"

Chu Mu Yang waved off his son's concern.

"Yes, yes. I'm fine."

Chu Zhong Si sighed in relief and then responded to his father's earlier jest.

"I don't think I can be nearly as famous as you, Dad. Look, they're calling me scrawny and little!"

His father chuckled, seething slightly.

"That should give you enough motivation to train without your sword! I rarely see you do drills with your division."

"Ugh! That's because I'm so much younger than them! I feel so out of place."

"Stop complaining! If you were truly serious about becoming a soldier, then age should not matter to you."

"Meh meh meh."

Chu Zhong Si playfully mimicked his father's lecturing tone and turned away. Amused, Chu Mu Yang reached over and gently rapped his son on the head.

"You silly child."

He clicked his tongue.

"Dad!"

The boy rubbed the back of his head, shooting his father a slightly disgruntled look. Accustomed to such interactions, he was in no mood to let his father's humor slide, especially not when strangers were making fun of him, emphasizing his slender frame.

The procession maneuvered through the bustling marketplace, the vibrant colors of fabrics and the aroma of exotic spices wafting through the air. As they approached the heart of the market, the atmosphere shifted. The narrow streets opened up to a grand plaza where a lively festival was in full swing. Stalls adorned with intricate crafts and delectable treats lined the square, and the sound of traditional music filled the air.

Noticing his son's interest in the vibrant surroundings, Chu Mu Yang spoke to him with an affectionate smile.

"A'Si, do you want to have a look?"

Chu Zhong Si was surprised by the offer and looked around, pondering whether or not to accept. After a good three seconds of deliberation, he shook his head, pursing his lips.

"We'd better not, Dad. The Emperor is expecting us."

His father sighed and nodded in agreement, a warm smile returning to his face.

"Right. That's right. Let's hurry on then."

And with that, the men continued their journey to the palace in silence. As they trotted away from the vibrant marketplace, Chu Zhong Si couldn't help but steal one last glance at the lively festivities. The colorful lights, the laughter, and the fragrances lingered in his senses, a stark contrast to the serious responsibilities that awaited him at home. Turning his gaze forward, he urged his horse to catch up with his father. 

_______________

Making their way back to the Bai residence, Bai Yue He and Jia Tao endeavored to slip through the shadows toward the servant's entrance leading to the kitchen. Successfully evading a few servants, they maneuvered into the kitchen, hunching over to conceal themselves between the counters. Their attempts at stealth, however, proved futile in the still-bright day with the sun casting its unforgiving light. Just as the exit came into view, a keen-eyed kitchen servant spotted their presence.

"Young Miss?"

The shock of being discovered sent the two girls' hearts plummeting to their stomachs. Mouths agape, they slowly turned around to face the unsuspecting servant. In his hands, the man held a woven basket brimming with pear blossom flowers, suggesting he had just returned from the orchards. Perhaps, he was unaware of their brief disappearance. Awkwardly straightening up, Bai Yue He and Jia Tao, feigned nonchalance as if they were merely inspecting the kitchen. Clearing her throat, Bai Yue He adopted a more mature tone.

"Yes? What is the matter?"

Clutching the basket securely in his hands, the servant lowered his head in a respectful bow.

"Nothing is the matter, I'm sorry for bothering you, Young Miss."

"Then go on, resume your duties."

"Yes."

After the servant left, Bai Yue He breathed a sigh of relief, turning to her handmaiden and wiping the sweat from her face. The girls spun around to make their exit from the kitchen, only to be startled by the sudden appearance of the head maid, Rui Li. The stern woman crossed her arms, shaking her head and clicking her tongue with annoyance. 

Rui Li was Bai Yue He's nanny in her younger years, and the mere sight of her face sent shivers down the young girl's spine. Flashbacks of punishments, writing, reading, and embroidering rushed through her mind as Bai Yue He began to sweat profusely. 

"H-Hello… Ms Rui Li…."

"Young Miss. Do you admit your fault?"

"W-what do you mean? W-what fault?"

Bai Yue He nervously laughed, attempting to play it cool, but Rui Li saw through her act, glaring at her with terrifying, knowing eyes, like a lion staring down its prey. The girl flinched as Rui Li stepped forward, succumbing to her dominating demeanor. It was as if all of her rebellious nature was swept away in an instant. 

"I-I admit my fault! I shouldn't have sneaked out of the house on such an important day!"

Anxiously clenching her fists and squeezing her eyes shut, Bai Yue He faced a critical decision. If she did not admit her fault now, Rui Li would likely drag her to her parents by her ears, and she would undoubtedly face severe punishment. In that moment, she deemed it wiser to sacrifice a bit of her pride than risk losing her ability to walk. 

Satisfied by her quick submission, Rui Li uncrossed her arms, letting them fall to her sides.

"It's good that you know. Young Miss, please follow me to prepare for the royal banquet. We only have two hours to get you dressed up and ready."

"Yes…"

There was no use in fighting back now. At a loss, Bai Yue He and Jia Tao obediently followed the head maid to Bai Yue He's bedroom chambers. The lively chirping of the birds as the trio walked down the veranda soured the girl's mood, as if the birds were laughing at her, mocking her for being foolish. 

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The procession found their way to the palace gates, waiting outside as Chu Mu Yang dismounted his horse. The entrance to the palace grounds stood as a blatant boast to the opulence of Fanrong, its towering structure adorned with intricate gold carvings and glistening red lacquer, symbolizing the wealth and prosperity of the nation. 

Approaching the guards stationed at the entrance, Chu Mu Yang retrieved a golden plaque from his waistband and presented it to the men. In response, the guards bowed, promptly opening the massive wooden doors embellished with gilded motifs of lilies and dragons. The doors creaked open slowly, unveiling the vast courtyard that lay beyond. Though not a new sight for Chu Zhong Si, he still felt overwhelmed by the emptiness and grandeur of the front courtyard, surmising that it might have been cleared for the carriages to park. Remounting his horse, Chu Mu Yang ordered the men to follow him, and the parade of horses and men entered the palace. The resounding clip-clop of horse hooves echoed through the grounds, announcing their presence to its inhabitants.

An eunuch came running down the palace steps from the Hall of Supreme Harmony, stopping in front of Chu Mu Yang who once again dismounted his horse. Putting his arms forward to greet the general, the eunuch bowed his head.

"The Emperor is ready to see General Chu Mu Yang and his son, Chu Zhong Si."

"Yes, thank you."

Chu Mu Yang's countenance remained formal and serious. Observing his father's expression, Chu Zhong Si mirrored it, determined not to make a mistake that might embarrass his father. Ascending the obnoxiously long staircase, the trio finally reached the entrance of the hall. Chu Zhong Si felt his palms sweat, a sensation he hadn't experienced since the time he was forced to spar with the best fighters in his division. The eunuch announced their presence, and the officials in the hall all turned around to observe the father and son. Chu Zhong Si's eyes scanned the hall as he stepped in, noting the mixed expressions of annoyance, indifference, and inconvenience. These people did not like him.

The young boy breathed a sigh of relief as he watched the Emperor stand up from his throne, holding a scroll. Descending the modest staircase before him, a subtle smile graced his face. As the scroll unfurled in the Emperor's hands, every official, including Chu Mu Yang, kowtowed as a gesture of respect. Witnessing his father humbly on the ground, Chu Zhong Si dropped to his knees to mirror his actions.

"General Chu Mu Yang, for 6 years, you have been defending the country's borders from enemies of Hengguo, finally defeating their forces in Hezhen. For your contribution to the country's safety, I will reward you with 2 brand new estates in Longwei City and Qinglan, new silk robes, an Imperial sword, two jeweled crowns, a silver mine-"

Gasps erupted throughout the audience. Chu Zhong Si glanced to his right and was surprised to see his father's unamused face. Did he not want these invaluable gifts?

"- and two years worth of grains for your army. Step forward to accept this edict."

Standing up and walking forward, Chu Mu Yang knelt down to accept his Emperor's decree.

"General Chu Mu Yang accepts the imperial edict."

Bowing deeply, the man lowered his forehead to the ground and extended his arms, offering a platform for the Emperor to place the scroll. 

Trying to sneak a peek, Chu Zhong Si saw the monarch wearing a broad smile, and upon closer inspection of his eyes, the boy discerned a hint of emotion, almost as if the Emperor teetered on the edge of shedding tears in that very moment. The Emperor must have missed his father while he was gone.

Once the scroll was placed in the general's hands, the Emperor cleared his throat, commanding with a booming voice.

"Everyone will leave now!"

The officials immediately followed his orders, displaying an eagerness to exit the hall as if they just couldn't wait. 

Once the rest of the men left the hall, only Chu Zhong Si, his father, and the Emperor were left. Chu Mu Yang, still having his head placed on the floor, clenched his fists and gently hit the Emperor's legs.

Surprised by the sudden offense, the Emperor jumped backwards and rubbed his leg.

"Chu Mu Yang, you scoundrel! How dare you hit your Emperor! Get up!"

The man stood up and dusted off his armor, blowing the hair out of his face.

"Chu Qing Tian!"

Upon hearing his elder brother speak his name so casually, the Emperor, Chu Qing Tian, visibly contorted his face, dropping his jaw in surprise. It had been years since he had last received such unceremonious treatment. Memories of childhood flooded back, recalling days when his brother would playfully roughhouse with him, teasing and occasionally even engaging in scuffles. Knowing his brother, Chu Qing Tian held his arms up to defend just in case.

"W-w-what?!"

As Chu Mu Yang approached, the Emperor instinctively recoiled, subtly bracing himself and flicking his hands in preparation for a fight. The general, with a mocking tone, pointed his finger and spoke.

"Y-y-you, what?! Are you scared?! How do you think I feel when you give me all of these grand gifts! You're practically signing my death warrant!" 

"Who dares harm a member of the imperial family?"

Displaying a haughty demeanor, Chu Qing Tian raised his nose, crossed his arms, and emitted a disdainful harrumph. Chu Zhong Si was startled by the sudden change in atmosphere. Having spent considerable time in army camps alongside his father, Chu Zhong Si had forgotten the close bond shared between his father and uncle. 

Waving his hands, Chu Mu Yang sighed.

"Forget it, forget it."

Seeing his brother's apprehension , Chu Qing Tian clicked his tongue.

"I haven't seen you in so long and you treat me like this."

"Roll to the side."

In a gesture of respect, Chu Mu Yang extended his arms to bid farewell to his brother. However, he couldn't help but roll his eyes in disbelief. Nearly 15 years had passed since Chu Qing Tian ascended to the throne as the Emperor of Fanrong, yet his maturity seemed to lag behind his age.

"Wow… is this how you treat your dear Emperor?"

With feigned politeness, Chu Mu Yang squinted his eyes into a smile, executed a bow, and nodded his head. Taking his son by the hand, he gracefully turned away, leaving the perplexed Emperor behind.

"Hey, hey! Chu Mu Yang! I'm not done talking!"

Ignoring his brother's incessant yapping, the general continued walking. Concerned about his father's actions, Chu Zhong Si tugged on his sleeves and whispered.

"Are you sure doing this is appropriate? Will we be punished?"

The man glanced down at his son and affectionately tousled his hair.

"Don't worry."

As the pair were exiting through the grand doorway, Chu Qing Tian called out.

"At least come to my birthday banquet tonight! Please!"

With that, the doors closed.

_______________

Entering the chambers, Bai Yue He was bombarded by maidservants who effectively abducted the young girl and settled her into a chair. They swiftly exited, returning with pots of makeup, trays of jewelry and hairpins, and an array of dresses and fabrics. Crafting Bai Yue He's ink-black hair into an elegant long hairstyle with double buns, they applied makeup and adorned her with a huadian portraying a water lily. Calm blues, vibrant greens, sunny yellows, and floral pinks danced around her as the maidservants carefully selected a harmonious color scheme. After some bickering and discussion, they settled on an emerald green dress with white and yellow accents, complemented by matching green ribbons and gold jewelry.

With their tasks complete, the maidservants stepped back, surveying their work and leaving Bai Yue He transformed into a vision of ethereal beauty, reminiscent of a fairy descending to the mortal realm. Amidst whispered admiration, Bai Yue He sat serenely in the chair like a porcelain doll, while Rui Li softly harrumphed, signaling her intention to speak.

"Young Miss, the banquet is set to start soon. Please come with me to meet with your family." 

"Yes."

The maidservants gracefully extended their obeisance to their young miss and the head maid as the duo departed the chamber, Bai Yue He delicately trailing behind the composed matron. Navigating in the elaborate attire proved to be a challenge, yet the sense of beauty enveloping her was doing wonders for Bai Yue He's self-esteem.

The thin, silky layers of emerald green fabric gently rustled with the warm breeze, creating a symphony of delicate whispers that accompanied her every step. The subtle fragrance of perfumes lingered in the air, infusing the surroundings with an aura of sophistication. With each soft footstep on the polished floors, Bai Yue He felt as if she were a swan, gracefully gliding through a sunlit pond, the radiance of her appearance reflecting in the gentle ripples of her surroundings. This was a stark departure from her usual disguise in men's attire, where the resonance of fabric and fragrances told different tales. She assumed that the opportunity to dress up in such a manner wouldn't present itself again anytime soon, cherishing every moment as if it were a fleeting dream subtly intertwined with reality. 

Upon entering the main hall, the air resonated with a sense of anticipation as the family members, gathered together to await the royal banquet, occupied their respective seats. At the focal point of the hall, Bai Yue He's grandmother, He Die Die, held a position of prominence. Draped in a gown of white and gray—a poignant homage to her late husband—she emanated an aura of dignified simplicity.

To her right, Bai Yue He's parents, Bai Shi and Chen Qiao, sat regally, while on the left, her uncle and aunt, Bai Bin and Zhu Jie Fan, mirrored the familial tableau. The main hall, adorned with intricate wooden carvings and ornate tapestries depicting scenes from ancient lore, emanated an air of ancestral grandeur.

Beside their respective parents were Bai Yue He's elder brothers, Bai Yi and Bai Xiu, along with her cousins, Bai Chong Wen and Bai Chun Fen. All members attending the banquet were bedecked in opulent gowns, each garment a masterpiece of craftsmanship, adding to the resplendent ambiance of the occasion. The main hall, with its towering columns and delicate lanterns casting a warm glow, served as the perfect backdrop to this familial gathering, a harmonious blend of tradition and celebration.

Seeing their daughter decorated in such splendor, Bai Shi and Chen Qiao found it impossible to keep their anger. Rising from their seats, they approached their daughter with a mixture of astonishment and pride, drawn to admire the exquisite transformation she had undergone. 

Turning to his wife, Bai Shi whispered to Chen Qiao before excusing himself and stepping out of the hall.

Gently feeling the fabric of her daughter's dress and gazing at her with eyes filled with affection, Chen Qiao extended a tender touch, delicately stroking Bai Yue He's head. Mindful not to disrupt the intricate hairstyle. 

"You look so beautiful, He He."

"That's right, little sister! You actually look like a girl today!"

Bai Yue He turned, shooting her second brother, Bai Xiu, a disapproving glance. How dare he poke fun at her?! 

"You-!"

"Alright, alright, He He. Enough."

Chen Qiao held her daughter, ensuring she maintained composure in front of the family. Bai Xiu chuckled, raising an eyebrow in amusement at his sister's reaction. However, his momentary happiness was short-lived as he found himself met with the chastising eyes of his mother. To avoid further reprimand, he promptly returned to his seat, receiving a scolding from his elder brother, Bai Yi.

Now that she had a moment to speak, Bai Yue He's grandmother, He Die Die beckoned her youngest granddaughter to sit next to her. Obeying, Bai Yue He gracefully approached her grandmother, elegantly lowering herself to take a seat beside her. Impressed by her matured actions, He Die Die laughed heartily and gently stroked her granddaughter's hand.

"Good. Good. You've grown up, He He."

The aged lady spoke with her signature benevolent tone and a soft smile. Bai Yue He considered her grandmother the kindest person on earth, believing that not even the goddesses in heaven could compare to her. Bai Yue He's aunt, Zhu Jie Fan laughed softly and agreed with her mother-in-law's sentiments.

"Mother-in-law is correct, He He. You've become a wonderful lady."

With a wide smile, Bai Yue He thanked her grandmother and her aunt.

"Thank you, Grandmother. Thank you Auntie."

He Die Die nodded slowly, her gaze filled with love as she observed her beautiful granddaughter. Then, her attention shifted to her other granddaughter, Bai Chun Fen.

"Fen Fen. Come here."

Bai Chun Fen, who had momentarily drifted into a light doze while waiting, was startled to hear her grandmother call her name. Swiftly, she straightened herself, skillfully pretending she had never dozed off in the first place. From these few actions, one would hardly believe that the girl was widely regarded as the epitome of the perfect lady in Fanrong. 

Bowing respectfully, Bai Chun Fen made her way toward her grandmother, offering another bow before taking her seat beside her, mirroring the graceful posture of Bai Yue He. Pleased, He Die Die affectionately stroked both of her granddaughters, a small and amicable laugh escaping her lips. 

"My granddaughters, our Bai family is so lucky to have such wonderful ladies like you."

The woman turned her face to Bai Chun Fen, and her expression subtly shifted to a more serious demeanor.

"Fen Fen. You must take care of your younger cousin alright? Don't let her get into trouble at the royal banquet."

Bai Chun Fen gracefully rose, offering another respectful bow before retaking her seat.

"Yes, Grandmother. I will take care of He He at the royal banquet, do not worry."

Hearing the desired response, He Die Die smiled once more, patting Bai Chun Fen's delicate hands.

"Good. Good."

Interrupting the warm atmosphere, Bai Shi returned to the main hall, exchanging greetings with his mother before clearing his throat to address the gathering. He offered a smile to his daughter as he began to speak.

"The carriages are ready. We must set off now, Mother."

"Yes, yes. Don't let me keep you."

After bidding farewell to He Die Die, the family exited the Bai compound and boarded their carriages. In accordance with their status as young ladies, Bai Yue He and Bai Chun Fen occupied their parents' carriage. Meanwhile, the sons of the family—Bai Yi, Bai Xiu, and Bai Chong Wen—shared a carriage together. With the sun poised to set, the time for the royal banquet was rapidly approaching.

In the carriage, Bai Yue He sat in awkward silence with her parents. Alone with them, the girl sensed her father's lingering annoyance at her earlier disappearance. Shifting uncomfortably in her seat, the atmosphere was disrupted when her father called her name.

"Bai Yue He."

Slowly looking up at her father, Bai Yue He pursed her lips.

"Yes, Papa?"

"Why did you choose to make trouble today of all days? Do you know how hard it was to keep your disappearance a secret from everyone else?"

He awaited his daughter's response, thinning his lips and widening his eyes in expectation. As Bai Yue He began to speak, she was abruptly interrupted by Bai Shi.

"Very hard!"

Bai Shi's sudden increase in volume startled both his wife and daughter. In retaliation, Chen Qiao lightly slapped his arm.

"Shi'er, lower your voice. The neighbors don't need to know about our business."

"Ah, yes. Yes. I apologize, dear. Go back to resting, ah?"

Shaking her head and playfully rolling her eyes, Chen Qiao resumed her relaxed position, closing her eyelids. Now whispering, Bai Shi leaned in towards his daughter.

"You know we can't keep anything from your noisy uncle! I had to bribe him with my prized books for him to keep silent in front of your grandmother! You know how much those mean to me."

"Sorry, Papa…"

Bai Yue He lowered her head in self-reflection, her face contorted in a pained expression. If only she hadn't forgotten about the royal banquet earlier that morning and stayed at home. Noticing his daughter's regret, Bai Shi rubbed his temples and sighed.

"He He. I don't have a problem with you going out in a disguise to explore the markets and streets freely, - I think it's rather good that you have an interest in how the common people live - but please keep in mind when and when it is not appropriate to do so. Please?"

Nodding her head, Bai Yue He promised her father.

"I will."

Smiling, Bai Shi patted his daughter's head, slightly tousling her hair. Sensing that her hair became a mess, Bai Yue He quickly flattened it down before looking up at her father.

"Good girl. You're a good girl, He He."

The girl was slightly caught off guard by the praise, almost tearing up. When was the last time she had heard such words from her father? She couldn't recall. Fidgeting with the fabric of her dress, Bai Yue He looked out of the carriage window, observing the world outside.

Continuing to gaze at his daughter, Bai Shi sighed once more, a melancholic smile appearing on his lips. He had harbored the hope that Bai Yue He would mature quickly into a respectable young lady, yet he had also desired that she would retain her childlike spirit. Despite understanding that he couldn't allow her unrestricted freedom, he grappled with the realization that he couldn't apply the same upbringing to her as he did to his two sons.

Suppressing a clearing of his throat, Bai Shi looked at his wife and gently stroked her arm, his anticipation for the royal banquet making him anxious.

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The journey back to the Chu manor proved tiresome, but in no time, Chu Zhong Si found himself being prepared for the annual royal banquet. These gatherings typically served as opportunities for noble families to present their recently adolescent children to the Empress and Emperor, with the aspirations of securing favorable marriage or building reliable connections. Despite being 15 years old, Chu Zhong Si and his father had been unable to attend in previous years due to their commitments in military bases and camps.

Pale blue and silver fabric cascaded over his chest as maidservants deliberated on which color complimented him best. Chu Zhong Si glanced down, favoring the blue fabric, only to realize it had already been taken away.

"I thought the pale blue was quite nice."

Addressing the maidservants before him, he inquired, and one of them responded with a serene smile, gracefully stepping aside to unveil an array of diverse clothes and fabrics. The sheer variety astonished the boy, and, noticing his surprise, the maidservant offered a reassuring response.

"Please do not worry, Young Master. We have plenty of time to get you prepared for the royal banquet this evening."

With no words of protest, Chu Zhong Si accepted his fate, standing still to allow the servants to proceed with their duties.

Fully adorned in a rich emerald green dressing and the sun dipping towards the horizon, Chu Zhong Si found his father waiting outside with a contingent of guards wearing neat, simple clothing. It was a rare sight to see his father dressed in anything other than armor, so the boy couldn't help but appreciate the change.

Chu Mu Yang laughed heartily, expressing admiration for his son's elegant attire as the maidservants bid their farewells and departed. A bit embarrassed, Chu Zhong Si tugged on his father's sleeves, urging him to hasten their journey to the banquet.

"Dad, let's just go. Stop that."

"Haah, children these days are always embarrassed of their parents no matter what they do."

He slowly shook his head with feigned sadness, emitting a loud sigh. The guards all solemnly nodded their heads in agreement, playing their part in their master's dramatic display.

"Dad!"

Chu Zhong Si thought that his father should consider a career change. The life of a theater actor seemed more fitting for a melodramatic old man like him, in contrast to his role as a ruthless war general. Having had his fun, Chu Mu Yang motioned for the guards to get the stepping block for the carriage and put his arm around his son's shoulder.

"Alright, alright. I'll stop teasing you. Now go on, you're already late."

Confused, Chu Zhong Si looked at his father with a puzzled expression.

"You're not coming?"

A fleeting hint of sadness passed through Chu Mu Yang's eyes to his son's words, swiftly replaced by his customary jesting tone.

"You kids and your incessant questions."

The old man clicked his tongue, intending to dismiss his son's earlier concern. Despite his father's efforts, Chu Zhong Si pressed on with the conversation.

"Dad, why aren't you coming to the banquet?"

Hesitating for a moment, Chu Mu Yang spun his son around, lowering himself slightly to be at the boy's eye level, reassuring him.

"A'Si, remember when we fought off those soldiers in Baixue village around two months ago? And I accidentally let one soldier hurt me?"

Chu Zhong Si intently listened to his father's words, vividly recalling the incident in Baixue village. How could he forget? It was the boy's first time witnessing his father in so much pain. He could still smell the iron tinge of blood in the air accompanied by the stifled moans of agony as military physicians meticulously extracted a poisoned arrow lodged in Chu Mu Yang's back. If the arrow had landed any closer to his spine, Chu Zhong Si shuddered at the thought of never seeing his father alive again.

"Yes."

"Well, I'm still a bit unwell. So you'll have to go to the banquet yourself. Is that alright? If you need someone to go with you, I can ask-"

The boy smiled, placing his hand on his father's shoulder.

"It's alright, Dad. I can manage."

Reassured by these words, Chu Mu Yang chuckled and playfully tousled his son's hair. Gently tapping on his cheeks, the man squeezed Chu Zhong Si's arm.

"I trust you'll do well, my son."

"Thanks, Dad."

With a final pat on his son's back, Chu Mu Yang motioned for the guards to prepare the carriage. As Chu Zhong Si boarded, his father stepped back, his eyes following the carriage until it disappeared around the corner.

Seated inside the luxurious carriage, Chu Zhong Si couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. It was both a moment of pride and responsibility. This would be his first royal banquet, and he was representing his family. As the carriage moved through the streets of Fanrong towards the imperial palace, he looked out the window, observing the vibrant city that had become his home.