But he wasn’t ready for retirement yet! For a moment, Old Master Xia truly didn’t know whether to cry or to laugh. Still, a promotion in rank is naturally not a bad thing! I’m not foolish; I know this promotion didn’t just fall from the sky. If it weren’t for my daughter’s favor, I fear I would have remained a county magistrate for my whole life. This realization makes it difficult for me to continue neglecting Xia Jingfeng and favoring my younger son. In fact, ever since I learned of Lady Yao’s malice, my heart hasn’t really been in it anymore. Maternal Aunt Wen, on the other hand, possesses the aura of a first wife—gentle, charming, considerate, and virtuous. Even though she isn’t as young and pretty, out of respect for my eldest daughter, I have to show her some regard. And as we’ve gradually grown closer, I’ve surprisingly found our time together increasingly comfortable; it seems feelings are developing, too. Only now do I realize that being with one’s wife doesn’t have to involve scoldings. Life can actually be quite comfortable! In winter, as soon as I enter the house, steaming hot meals and tea are waiting for me. In summer, upon returning home, a bowl of chilled herbal tea is always prepared. This is so much better than being busy half the day, returning from the Yamen only to be greeted with a scowl, and after all the coaxing and cajoling, ending up with a scolding! After all, people have feelings! I know who is good to me and who isn’t; I’m absolutely clear about this in my heart. 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. I want that opportunity, 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. Great General... he mused. Like the Fan Family, celebrated for their contributions on the frontiers, commanding respect even from the Emperor. As long as the Fan Family isn’t guilty of treason, Empress Fan’s position is secured, unshakable by anyone! Therefore, I hadn’t even dreamed that such an opportunity would come my way! Xia Tingfeng thought. He bowed his head, kneeling. "Emperor, this commoner has neither the merits nor the ability to deserve such trust from you!" After all, we’ve only known each other for a short while. At present, my status is nothing but that of a street hoodlum. Even if I have talent, it’s just talent and hasn’t yet been turned into skill! Am I... fit for the role? Chapters first released on novel⟡fire.net 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! At last... I can finally become a soldier. Before, Father warned me that if I dared to go to the barracks, he would dismiss Maternal Aunt Wen. I was furious, like a trapped beast, but dared not gamble with Mother’s life. Now, after so many years of contention with Father, I’ve finally... I’ve finally won. Maternal Aunt, sister, I will carve out a place in the world for you! 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. Including... a Hidden Guard who has won my heart. In fact, even without Xia Ruqing, I would not have let such a promising seedling slip away. 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! After all, it isn’t far; by waterway, it will take at most two days to arrive, 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. She sat there obediently, motionless, completely wilted from the heat. Gone was the curiosity she had shown when she first left the palace; now everything seemed dull. 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. However, I would have preferred not to go, Xia Ruqing thought. Because the sun outside is simply too intense. I feel that a day out could result in me being tanned several shades darker! There’s no sunscreen in ancient times, and I don’t want to go out! Unfortunately... there’s no choice! The Emperor’s command is absolute, and I have to comply. I not only have to go but also have to put on a happy face! Truly... how cruel! 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. After some awkward small talk, they ran out of things to say.