Starting in Exile: Transmigrated as the Crown Prince's Lucky Little Wife

Chapter 285 Leaving the Palace

As the warm sun rose, it draped the capital of Xiqi Kingdom in a golden veil. The streets and alleys were filled with the lively atmosphere, a mingled sound of children's laughter and vendors' cries. Xiao Nanyao and Xiao Nanyi, dressed in light clothing, were playing in the capital's busiest market.

Little Nan Yao, like a cheerful little deer, weaved through the crowd, occasionally drawn to the novelties on the street. Holding Little Nan Yi's hand, her eyes sparkled, she exclaimed, "Brother, look at that rattle drum, it's so pretty! And that sugar figurine, doesn't it look like a fairy from heaven?" Little Nan Yi followed closely behind his sister, his eyes full of doting affection, occasionally reminding her, "Yao'er, slow down, don't fall."

Just as the two were immersed in the joyful atmosphere of the market, a palace guard ran up in a panic and knelt on one knee: "Your Highness, Your Highness, His Highness, His Majesty has suddenly fainted! The Empress and His Highness the Crown Prince are extremely worried and request that you return to the palace immediately!"

Xiao Nanyao and Xiao Nanyi froze instantly, their smiles vanishing completely, replaced by deep worry and fear. "What did you say? Grandfather has fainted?" Xiao Nanyi stepped forward, asking anxiously. The guard nodded, his expression grave.

Xiao Nanyao's eyes reddened, and her voice trembled with tears: "How could this happen? Grandfather has always been in good health... Brother, let's go back quickly!" Without saying a word, Xiao Nanyi took Xiao Nanyao's hand and ran towards the palace.

Along the way, Xiao Nanyao's tears flowed uncontrollably. Xiao Nanyi comforted his sister while quickening his pace. "Yao'er, don't worry, Grandpa is a lucky man, he'll be alright. Let's hurry back, maybe Grandpa has already woken up." But his heart was also filled with unease.

The market was quite a distance from the palace, and the two men soon became breathless and their pace slowed. But the thought of their grandfather lying in bed spurred them on, and they gritted their teeth and continued running.

As they passed a pharmacy, Xiao Nanyao suddenly stopped and said, "Brother, let's buy some medicine for Grandpa. Maybe he'll get better after taking the medicine." Xiao Nanyi hesitated for a moment, then pulled Xiao Nanyao into the pharmacy.

"Shopkeeper, do you have any medicine that can help the patient recover quickly?" Xiao Nanyi asked anxiously. The shopkeeper looked at the two of them and asked suspiciously, "Young master, who are you buying medicine for?" Xiao Nanyao quickly replied, "We're buying it for our royal grandfather; he fainted!"

Upon hearing this, the shopkeeper's expression changed slightly, and he quickly said, "So you are royalty. However, the illness is unclear, and we cannot administer medicine casually. Young master and princess, you should return to the palace immediately and ask the imperial physician for treatment."

Hearing this, the two could only thank the innkeeper and continue their journey. As they drew closer to the palace, Xiao Nanyao's heart pounded faster and faster. She held Xiao Nanyi's hand tightly, her palms sweating.

Finally, the two reached the palace gates. The guards, seeing them, quickly let them through. Once inside, Xiao Nanyao and Xiao Nanyi headed straight for the Hall of Supreme Harmony. Along the way, palace maids and eunuchs bowed to them, but the two were too anxious to respond.

When they arrived at the Hall of Supreme Harmony, they were drenched in sweat and their hair was disheveled. Mu Qingling, Xiao Jingchuan, and Gu Liuli were anxiously awaiting the imperial physician's diagnosis inside. Seeing Xiao Nanyao and Xiao Nanyi enter, Mu Qingling approached them with concern: "Yao'er, Yi'er, why did you run back? You must be exhausted!"

Xiao Nanyao threw herself into Mu Qingling's arms and burst into tears: "Grandma, what happened to Grandpa? Why isn't he awake yet?" Mu Qingling gently stroked Xiao Nanyao's head, her eyes filled with sorrow: "Yao'er, Grandpa fainted because he missed the Empress Dowager too much and was overwhelmed with grief. The imperial physicians are trying to find a way to help him, and Grandpa will be alright."

Xiao Nanyi walked to Xiao Han's bedside, looked at his unconscious grandfather, and his eyes reddened: "Grandpa, please wake up. Xiao Nanyi and Xiao Nanyao have come to see you." He reached out his little hand and gently held Xiao Han's hand, as if he could transfer his strength to his grandfather in this way.

At this moment, the imperial physician came out of the inner room, and everyone crowded around him. "Imperial Physician, how is His Majesty's condition?" Xiao Jingchuan asked anxiously. The imperial physician frowned, his expression grave: "Although His Majesty is temporarily out of danger, he is extremely weak due to excessive grief, and it is still uncertain when he will wake up."

Hearing the imperial physician's words, Xiao Nanyao cried even harder: "Grandpa, please wake up! I promise I will be good and not make you angry..." Xiao Nanyi held back his tears and comforted his sister: "Yao'er, Grandpa will hear you, he will definitely wake up."

The royal palace of the Nanzhao Kingdom stood serene and solemn in the autumn morning light. Golden ginkgo leaves danced in the breeze, fluttering down to carpet the palace paths with a thick layer of gold. In the imperial garden, chrysanthemums vied for attention, their reds as fiery, their whites as snow, and their yellows as golden, exuding a delicate fragrance.

In the imperial study, Xiao Jingchuan sat on the dragon throne, quietly reviewing memorials. Sunlight streamed through the carved window lattice, illuminating his slightly weary features. Over the years, he had devoted himself to governing the Western Qi Kingdom, working tirelessly day and night. The years had left deep marks on his face, and strands of white hair were now mixed in with his jet-black hair.

"Your Majesty, it's time for breakfast," the personal eunuch reminded him softly. Xiao Jingchuan put down his memorial, rubbed his temples, and got up to walk to the dining table. The table was laden with a sumptuous breakfast, but he had no appetite. He ate a few bites and then put down his chopsticks.

Looking back on his life since ascending the throne, Xiao Jingchuan was filled with mixed emotions. Over the years, he had implemented a series of reforms, developed agriculture, encouraged commerce, and strengthened border defenses, bringing prosperity to the Western Qi Kingdom. The people lived in peace and contentment, and the country grew stronger day by day, but he also felt physically and mentally exhausted.

"Now that Yi'er and Yao'er have grown up and are capable of governing the country, it's time to hand over this heavy responsibility to them," Xiao Jingchuan thought to himself.

Therefore, Xiao Jingchuan decided to discuss the matter of abdication with Gu Liuli. As evening approached, the afterglow of the setting sun bathed the entire palace in orange-red light, and Xiao Jingchuan arrived at Gu Liuli's bedchamber.

"Liuli, you've had a tough time all these years," Xiao Jingchuan said affectionately, holding Gu Liuli's hand. Gu Liuli was slightly taken aback, looking at Xiao Jingchuan's tired face, a pang of heartache welled up in her heart: "Your Majesty, why are you suddenly saying this? You've sacrificed so much for the Western Qi Kingdom all these years; you've been the one who has suffered the most."

Xiao Jingchuan sighed and told Gu Liuli about his desire to abdicate. "Yi'er is exceptionally intelligent, diligent, and has a profound understanding of governance; Yao'er is kind, brave, cares deeply for the people, and is capable of handling things independently. I believe they will lead Xiqi Kingdom to an even more glorious future."

After listening, Gu Liuli remained silent for a moment. She understood Xiao Jingchuan's good intentions and knew that he had exhausted his efforts for the country and the people. "Your Majesty, I support your decision. Yi'er and Yao'er have grown up, and it's time for them to shoulder their responsibilities. However, this matter is of great importance and requires careful consideration."

Xiao Jingchuan nodded: "I know. I plan to talk to Yi'er and Yao'er first to hear their thoughts, and then summon the important officials of the court to discuss this matter."

A few days later, Xiao Jingchuan summoned Xiao Nanyi and Xiao Nanyao to the imperial study. Xiao Nanyi, dressed in a cyan robe, exuded an air of grandeur; Xiao Nanyao, in a pink palace dress, was gentle and charming. The two entered the imperial study and bowed to Xiao Jingchuan.

"Yi'er, Yao'er, I've called you here today because there's something important to discuss." Xiao Jingchuan looked at the two children, his eyes full of affection. Xiao Nan Yi and Xiao Nan Yao exchanged a glance, vaguely guessing what was going on.

"Father, is there some important matter concerning the country?" Xiao Nanyi asked. Xiao Jingchuan smiled slightly and told them about his intention to abdicate. "Over the years, I have been exhausted from governing the country. Now that you have all grown up, I believe you are capable of taking over this responsibility."

Xiao Nan Yi and Xiao Nan Yao were both somewhat surprised upon hearing this. After a moment of contemplation, Xiao Nan Yi said, "Father, I understand your good intentions. Over the years, I have been studying the art of governing a country and hope to contribute my strength to the development of west Qi Kingdom. However, I am worried that I lack experience and may fail to live up to your expectations."

Xiao Nanyao also said, "Father, although I care about the people, there is still much I need to learn in terms of governing the country."

Looking at his two sensible children, Xiao Jingchuan smiled with satisfaction: "Yi'er, Yao'er, I am very pleased that you have such thoughts. In the days to come, I will personally teach you and help you prepare."

After leaving the Imperial Study, Xiao Nan Yi and Xiao Nan Yao were deeply moved. They knew that this was both a tremendous challenge and a heavy responsibility.

Subsequently, Xiao Jingchuan summoned the key ministers of the court to the Taihe Hall to discuss his abdication. After listening, the ministers expressed their opinions. Some ministers expressed support, believing that Xiao Nanyi and Xiao Nanyao were capable of governing the country well; others expressed concerns, believing that they were too young and lacked experience.

Xiao Jingchuan listened patiently to the ministers' opinions and said, "My dear ministers, although Yi'er and Yao'er are young, they both possess outstanding talent and noble character. In the coming days, I will provide them with careful guidance so that they can quickly become familiar with court affairs. I believe that under their leadership, the Western Qi Kingdom will surely continue to prosper."

With Xiao Jingchuan's insistence, the ministers finally reached a consensus. Afterward, Xiao Jingchuan began to provide comprehensive instruction to Xiao Nanyi and Xiao Nanyao, teaching them everything from important state affairs to court etiquette, down to the smallest detail.

The winter snow in the Western Qi Kingdom's palace fell like goose feathers, blanketing the entire palace in silver. Inside the Jiaofang Palace, the warm stove emitted cozy steam, dispelling the winter chill. Mu Qingling sat on the carved canopy bed, her fingers gently tracing the delicate patterns on the bed's edge. Her gaze, looking through the window at the white snowscape outside, stirred a unique emotion within her.

“Now that His Majesty has abdicated, and Yi’er and Yao’er are capable of handling things on their own, we should also make some plans for our future.” Mu Qingling murmured softly, turning her gaze to the retired Emperor Xiao Han, who was flipping through ancient books beside her.

Xiao Han put down the book in his hand, slowly got up, walked to the window, looked at the snow falling all around, and sighed, "Yes, all these years, we have devoted ourselves to the royal family and the country. Now that the children have all grown up, it is time to enjoy some free time. I think we should leave this palace and find a quiet place outside the palace to retire."

A hint of surprise flashed in Mu Qingling's eyes, followed by some worry: "Leave the palace? Although it's more comfortable outside the palace, it's not the same as inside. We'll have to take care of everything ourselves. Besides, won't it make things difficult for the children if we leave?"

Xiao Han turned around, walked to Mu Qingling's side, took her hand, and said gently, "Qingling, the children have already taken on their responsibilities and are capable of governing the country. As for life outside the palace, we don't need to worry about it; we can make arrangements in advance. Besides, we can occasionally return to the palace to visit them."

Mu Qingling pondered for a moment and nodded gently: "Since His Majesty has made up his mind, then so be it. However, we still need to inform Jingchuan and the others about this matter."

A few days later, the sun finally pierced through the clouds and shone on the snow-covered palace. Xiao Jingchuan and Gu Liuli, having learned of their parents' desire to retire outside the palace, came to the Jiaofang Palace. "Father, Mother, we heard you plan to retire outside the palace?" Xiao Jingchuan's eyes were full of concern.

Mu Qingling smiled and took Gu Liuli's hand, saying, "Yes, you are all capable of handling things on your own now, it's time for us to retire and enjoy our retirement. After so many years in the palace, we also want to go out and see different scenery."

Gu Liuli said with heartache, "Mother, although I understand your thoughts, life outside the palace is not the same as inside the palace, and there are many inconveniences. I am really worried about you."

Xiao Han waved his hand and said, "You don't need to worry, we've thought it all out. We've found a quiet villa in the suburbs, the environment is pleasant, and all the necessities have been arranged. Besides, communication is so convenient these days, we can contact you anytime if anything happens."

Seeing that his parents had made up their minds, Xiao Jingchuan stopped trying to dissuade them: "Since Father and Mother have made up their minds, your son will do his best to make arrangements so that you can live comfortably outside the palace."

In the days that followed, the palace began making intensive preparations for the departure of the Emperor Emeritus and the Empress Dowager. The Imperial Household Department carefully selected a group of loyal and reliable servants to take care of their daily lives; it also prepared various daily necessities and valuables for any eventuality.

On the day of their departure, the sun shone brightly, and the snow glittered in the sunlight. Xiao Nanyi and Xiao Nanyao also came to see their grandparents off. "Grandpa and Grandma, you must come back to visit us often," Xiao Nanyao said, holding Mu Qingling's hand, her eyes reddening.

Mu Qingling stroked Xiao Nanyao's head tenderly and said, "Yao'er, your grandparents will definitely come back to see you. You and your brother must be good and listen to your parents, and govern the country well."

Xiao Nanyi stepped forward and said, "Grandpa and Grandma, don't worry, your grandson and sister will definitely work hard. We hope you are doing well outside the palace."

Surrounded by a crowd, the Emperor Emeritus and Empress Dowager rode in a magnificent carriage, slowly departing from the palace. As the palace gates closed behind them, Mu Qingling and Xiao Han felt a mix of emotions—reluctance to leave palace life and anticipation for their new life outside.

The carriage traveled along the wide official road, the snow on both sides crunching under the wheels. Mu Qingling lifted the curtain and gazed at the scenery, her heart filled with emotion. This was the first time in many years that she had left the palace, and seeing the people outside living in peace and prosperity filled her with great joy.

Several hours later, the carriage arrived at the villa on the outskirts of the city. The villa was nestled among green hills and clear waters, surrounded by lush bamboo groves, with a clear stream flowing in front of it. The villa's architecture was simple and elegant, with pavilions and towers scattered in a well-organized manner. The gardens were planted with various rare flowers, and although it was winter, it had a unique charm.

"Qingling, this place is quiet and the air is fresh. We'll enjoy our retirement here from now on," Xiao Han said with a smile.

Mu Qingling looked around and a satisfied smile appeared on her face: "It is indeed a good place. It seems that His Majesty has carefully selected it long ago."

Led by a servant, the two entered the villa. The villa was warm and comfortable, with every detail reflecting the care shown to them.