Chapter 23: Why Cry?

Chapter 23: Why Cry?

"Has the person who wants to kill me even asked for my opinion?!"

Zhu Yan stood in front of Wen Ruan.

The masked man's sword was dangerously sharp. He didn't just throw his weapon; he charged forward himself. Even so, Zhu Yan still got injured, blood dripping from his forearm onto the ground.

The Sixth Prince indeed had a stubborn temper. At this critical moment, he still rushed forward to confront his opponent head-on, not only standing his ground but also doing so with an exhilarated fervor.

Wen Ruan felt that he hadn't misjudged him. In Zhu Yan's eyes, there was anger at being provoked, but also excitement at the prospect of a fight... Was this opponent's martial arts truly worth it?

Zhu Yan no longer spoke, ignoring the wound on his forearm. Unlike before when he had subconsciously protected Wen Ruan, now his sword moves were bold and direct, clashing fiercely with the masked man's. They didn't just collide swords, but also fists and bodies.

When their blades met, sparks flew. When their fists collided, the one with less strength had his palm split open, blood spurting out. When their bodies collided, the loud 'bang' was almost too much for Wen Ruan to bear, fearing that if he listened closely, he could hear bones breaking!

Zhu Yan was currently filled with a fierce determination, charging forward without any regard for his own safety, unafraid of death... It seemed as though he wasn't fighting to protect someone or because his opponent's martial arts were commendable. He was fighting purely for the sake of killing, wanting nothing more than to slay this person!

Wen Ruan was greatly shocked. The Sixth Prince was almost proving the saying true: the best defense is offense.

He felt like he was witnessing a scene straight out of a storybook, with stunning sword shadows, sharp qi, broken leaves swirling in a rhythmic dance, and dust rippling like the surface of a lake before shattering. Zhu Yan's fingers, gripping the sword, were long and strong. The bloodstains only added to his aura of ruthlessness, not diminishing his beauty in the slightest. His clothes and hair fluttered with his movements, billowing in the wind, graceful like a startled swan, agile like a swimming dragon.

Wen Ruan felt his scalp tingle and his heart tighten. This was the legendary martial arts... How impressive!

Both fighters were injured, but at some point, Zhu Yan gained the upper hand. After severing one of the masked man's arms, victory was no longer within reach for the assailant.

It seemed as though the masked man had no intention of leaving alive. Seeing that he couldn't win, he resorted to a dirty trick. As their swords clashed again in a bold move, he struck his own chest, hard enough to be fatal. Almost immediately, he spat out a mouthful of blood.

This blood mist was black, indicating a deadly poison!

Zhu Yan didn't hold back during the fight, charging forward with all his might, unable to stop in time. Even trying to dodge, he couldn't avoid the blood mist that reached his nose.

The masked man fell heavily to the ground, a satisfied smile on his face as he died.

"Disgusting..."

Zhu Yan was also running out of strength, kneeling half-way to the ground, his sword supporting him as he spat out a mouthful of blood. Without time to clean up, he quickly found a medicine pouch at his waist, selected a brownish-red pill, and swallowed it.

This pill seemed incredibly effective. After swallowing it, he was able to stand up immediately, calmly wiping his face and walking over to extend a hand to Wen Ruan.

Everything happened so fast that Wen Ruan was momentarily stunned, sitting dumbly on the ground, staring at the offered hand. "My hands... they're very dirty."

He had been digging into the slippery and sticky tree roots, getting covered in mud.

Zhu Yan raised an eyebrow slightly, but didn't retract his extended hand.

Wen Ruan then realized that the other party's hand wasn't particularly clean either. After such a long fight, there was both his own and the enemy's blood on his hands, which couldn't be wiped clean and didn't smell pleasant. But this was a beautiful hand, just like its owner, with an elegant and noble demeanor that made one hesitant to touch.

He took the hand.

With the help of the other's strength, he stood up.

This hand, which one hesitated to touch, was dry and warm, strong enough to provide a sense of security.

"Eh? What's wrong, Your Highness? Wake up, Your Highness!"

Wen Ruan never expected that in the instant Zhu Yan pulled him up from the ground, he would suddenly collapse like his entire body had lost power, unconscious.

Life... could actually be so dramatic!

Wen Ruan checked Zhu Yan's breathing, which was fine, just unconscious. It looked like the poison had taken effect, unsure if the small pill he had just eaten could neutralize it, but it was clear that his physical condition wasn't good.

Wen Ruan squatted down, attempting to carry Zhu Yan... but couldn't lift him.

The other party was much taller and heavier than him, and in an unconscious state, he couldn't cooperate, making the task even more difficult.

"Nanxing..."

Why haven't you come back yet, and when will you return? Your young master is about to suffer greatly!

...

Nanxing encountered a dark-clothed masked man, different from what happened here. Instead of a group, he faced only one person.

He didn't know what secrets his young master held, attracting potential dangers, but he felt that he couldn't expose himself either, adding to the trouble. Thinking about it, he tore off a piece of his clothing to cover his face, then began to engage in combat.

The incoming person had extremely high martial arts, seemingly possessing boundless sharpness, with ample ferocity but lacking in stability, resembling a teenager. For a teenager to achieve such skill, it was evident that he lacked neither talent nor dedication. After several exchanges, Nanxing felt a bit of admiration for this level of martial arts, truly remarkable. However, he despised anyone who put his young master in danger, regardless of their skills.

After countering several moves, he couldn't shake off the opponent, nor could he leave himself. Strangely, the opponent didn't seem to have much hostility, appearing more interested in testing him, seeing what kind of fighter he was...

This was becoming tricky.

Nanxing sensed something amiss. Thinking about it, he decided to use the array formation tactics taught by his young master, continuing to entangle with the person.

At least by leading the person away, his young master would be safe. If he could capture this person and extract some information, it would be even better!

The dark-clothed masked man became increasingly excited as the fight continued, fixating on Nanxing's footwork, unwilling to leave. In a leap, his mask accidentally slipped, revealing his lack of professionalism, hastily pulling it back up.

While fighting, he inwardly criticized Zhu Yan.

The Sixth Prince was quite something, this time facing a formidable opponent. This martial art, combining array formations, body techniques, and sword techniques, was something he had never seen before, worthy of study! Could it be that the Sixth Prince had already fought against him and intentionally passed him off to him? But the Sixth Prince was so cunning; if he had really fought against him, how could he not have been tempted to learn it himself, using him as a test subject?

It was just that this person appeared completely unprofessional, lacking any intent to kill, similar to himself, looking like a half-hearted assassin.

In short, the Sixth Prince was utterly useless. For such a trivial matter, did he need to use a special whistle to call him over for assistance? He even worried about involving others, specifically covering his face with a mask. Who would have thought it was just one person? Just one!

The Sixth Prince could easily take them down, yet he dragged others into suffering alongside him. What were you thinking, Sixth Prince?!

Right now, the Sixth Prince was wondering what Fang Rui, that useless fellow, was doing.

Today, entering the mountains would inevitably involve encounters with several groups of bandits. His plan was to have Fang Rui divert their attention, splitting the enemy forces and stirring up more chaos. However, this person didn't make a sound, never appearing at all. Did he even come?

Not following orders... He shouldn't blame him for being less lenient in the future.

His eyes opened with difficulty. Zhu Yan recognized that this was a cave; his hands had been washed, and his wounds were bandaged. Herbal medicine juice, used for stopping the bleeding, had been applied, emitting an unpleasant but somewhat refreshing scent.

He lay on the ground, which had been cleared and covered with dry grass. Beside him was something resembling a stretcher made from branches and grass ropes, somewhat ugly but with five or six spots polished smooth for comfort.

He must have been brought into the cave using this tool. Someone, concerned for his safety, had bound him securely, taking care to smooth the areas that would touch his skin to prevent discomfort.

Turning his gaze slightly, a figure came into view.

Slim waist, slender shoulders, a distinct clavicle.

The shoulders trembled lightly. In such weather, it was impossible for it to be due to cold—it could only be...

"Why are you crying." Zhu Yan hadn't expected his voice to be so hoarse, lacking any intimidation.

Wen Ruan, hearing movement, turned around, pleasantly surprised. "You're awake?"

It seemed that the pill truly worked.

He wasn't crying; it just appeared that his legs had gone numb, and he was gently rubbing them.

Zhu Yan: ...

He closed his eyes peacefully.

Everyone has moments of social death, and Wen Ruan tactfully pretended nothing happened, bringing over a bowl of water he had prepared. "Your Highness is kind-hearted and possesses great martial arts skills, admirable indeed."

"Do you think... I'm a good person?"

Zhu Yan had never heard such a laughable statement before.

Wen Ruan: "Of course."

At least not someone who wants to kill me, an enemy.

"Your Highness, please drink some water."

The Sixth Prince had been poisoned; now, his forehead was burning, his voice hoarse. He must be uncomfortable. When Wen Ruan went to find water, he coincidentally discovered a stone that resembled a small bowl by the riverbank. Although its walls were thick and the bottom shallow, it could still hold water, so he cleaned it and brought it along.

Lowering his gaze, Zhu Yan noticed Wen Ruan's hands.

Regardless of whether he was weaving the bamboo bed, extracting herbal juices, or searching for a stone bowl, one would need to be meticulous. He saw bloodstains on these hands, swollen and unsightly, without any herbal medicine applied.

"I've already taken the antidote pill; within two hours, no poison can remain. There's no need for your assistance; feel free to do as you wish."

After drinking the water, he attempted to push himself up with his hands... but failed, his body falling forward straight away.

"Be careful!"

Wen Ruan caught him in his arms, gently placing the Sixth Prince against the wall.

Zhu Yan: ...

The Sixth Prince closed his eyes again.

Wen Ruan: "Are you alright..."

Zhu Yan: "Shut up."

The prouder a person, the harder it is to endure moments of social death.

Wen Ruan was genuinely considerate. He could show much respect to his savior and remained silent, but some things just wouldn't cooperate. As Zhu Yan leaned against the stone wall, a plaque slid out from his robes.

Rectangular in shape, black base with gold lacquer.

Wen Ruan wanted to pretend he didn't see it, but it was difficult. The plaque had fallen right between him and Zhu Yan, face-up, with the words clearly visible—no excuse for not seeing them:

Minister of Revenue, Chen Yongan.

This was the lost seal of Chen Yongan! A crucial piece of evidence, potentially proving the innocence of Chen Yongan through official correspondence.

This seal was in the possession of the Sixth Prince?

No, wait.

In just a moment, Wen Ruan realized something was off. The seal looked somewhat dirty, as if it had passed through many hands, accumulating dust, smells, and textures unlike those on the Sixth Prince's person. Clearly, it hadn't been with him for long; he must have obtained it recently.

Or perhaps, just now? So those masked men...

There were many masked men, but the last one targeted him. The others must have been related to the Sixth Prince, or perhaps the Sixth Prince wanted to be involved with them. The Sixth Prince was causing trouble, aiming for... this seal?

The seal was connected to Chen Yongan. Was the Sixth Prince trying to save Chen Yongan, or did he want leverage over him?

Regardless, the Sixth Prince wasn't truly mad, recklessly stirring up major and minor incidents in the capital based on his mood. He had a clear plan in mind.

But the Sixth Prince was very proud, unlikely to open up to just anyone, especially a young lord from the Duke's Mansion whom he had met once and intentionally teased.

He certainly didn't want to experience such social death in front of him.

It was rather awkward.

Wen Ruan didn't know how to handle the situation either, only managing to say stiffly, "Sorry, I didn't see anything."

Zhu Yan: ...

"I'm not blind."

He put away the token and closed his eyes once more.

It wasn't just the desire to speak that had faded; even his will to live seemed much diminished.

Wen Ruan: "Are you hungry?"

Zhu Yan ignored him.

"Didn't you say it would take two hours for the antidote pill to work? You've been through so much hardship before this, and you still have wounds on your body. It wouldn't be good to starve yourself. Wait here while I go get something to eat!"

Wen Ruan decisively left the cave.

Today was the last day of May, and it was very hot. There was mist in the mountains, which did not bring any coolness but instead gave off a feeling of impending rain, making everything feel stuffy. Of course, he wouldn't cook anything inside the cave. Whether it was a matter of hygiene or disturbance, he guessed that the Sixth Prince didn't want to turn himself into roasted meat, and neither did he.

His wilderness survival skills were quite decent. If they weren't, then living in the countryside for several years would have sufficed. There were fish in the river and firewood in the forest; a meal of grilled fish could be prepared.

Fishing, gutting the fish, finding ingredients to marinate it, gathering firewood, selecting a spot to start a fire, and roasting the fish...

Before long, the tantalizing aroma wafted over. His skills hadn't deteriorated at all; it was truly delicious!

Apparently, the fire he had set upon returning to the Duke's Mansion had been intentional.

Wen Ruan ran around busily at the cave entrance, not feeling tired at all. Although he didn't hum any songs lightly, one could tell from the sound of his footsteps that he was in an exceptionally good mood. They were lively, and the fish was being cooked to perfection.

Inside the cave, Zhu Yan lowered his gaze.

How long had it been since he felt this way?

Thirteen years ago, it used to be common, with his mother and the Crown Prince brother...

Why was he thinking about these things now? About someone like this—

Zhu Yan's gaze towards the outside of the cave grew increasingly gloomy.

Wen Ruan entered carrying the grilled fish, its fragrance capable of spreading for miles: "Alright, alright, Your Highness, taste it quickly!"

The youth's eyes sparkled, and there was a smudge of black ash on his cheek, resembling a kitten's whiskers that moved along with his speech, making it hard for one to resist looking.

Wen Ruan wanted to help the Sixth Highness sit up, but the Sixth Highness was a proud prince. The previous rounds of social death were already significant traumas, and he didn't want to provoke him further. Seeing the proud prince support himself to sit up, Wen Ruan didn't rashly step forward to assist but stood by the side waiting.

The prince finally managed to sit up, successfully leaning against the wall for support without falling over, preserving his pride. But beads of sweat formed on his forehead, clearly indicating how strenuous it was, and his entire body ached.

Judging from his previous fall, Wen Ruan realized that it might be due to the poison or the weakening effect of the antidote pill.

Since his limbs lacked strength...

Wen Ruan sat beside Zhu Yan and presented the fish to his mouth.

Zhu Yan glanced at him, his lips pursing tighter.

Seeing that he wouldn't open his mouth, Wen Ruan considerately gestured: "Ah—"

You're a proud prince. Have you never been fed before?

Zhu Yan remained silent.

He couldn't open his mouth and knew why, but persisting would only make things more awkward. The youth looked at him with bright eyes, the cat-like whiskers on his cheeks smiling encouragingly, as if eagerly anticipating. If he didn't eat, this little kitten would seem pitiful.

He could certainly be heartless; he was a cruel person after all.

But what made it even more embarrassing was that his stomach growled.

This was an existence that couldn't be commanded to shut up.

Zhu Yan closed his eyes briefly, then silently opened his mouth and took a bite of the grilled fish.

Wen Ruan's eyes shone brighter: "How is it? Is it delicious? Does it suit Your Highness's taste?"

Zhu Yan: "..."

He found it a bit difficult to deliver the knife in his hand.

The proud and noble prince was sparing with his words, but he didn't utter a single sound of disgust, which should mean it was good?

Wen Ruan didn't ask further, taking out the patience one would use when caring for a child. Bite by bite, he fed the Sixth Prince the fish, considering the prince's weakened state after the poisoning. He wasn't sure if his digestive function had been affected, so he intentionally encouraged him to chew slowly. After feeding him a bite, he counted until he had chewed thirty times before giving him the next bite.

Zhu Yan: "..."

"...Don't get too cocky," he spoke, his voice still hoarse from the fever caused by the poison. Not only was it unpleasant to hear, but it was also terrifying.

Cocky?

Wen Ruan quickly analyzed the Sixth Prince's thought process. Why did the Sixth Prince think he was being cocky? Was there something he did wrong that made the Sixth Prince uncomfortable? It shouldn't be the case; the Sixth Prince had been eating quite obediently...

Perhaps it had nothing to do with his behavior. It was simply because of his weakened state, the reversal of 'strength and weakness.' Someone who could usually control everything suddenly became vulnerable, easily dying and constantly under the 'threat' of others. It would be strange if he felt comfortable.

These words were a warning, not to assume superiority just because of a temporary dominant position.

"If you hadn't been poisoned, I would have been dead long ago. How dare I be cocky?" Wen Ruan glanced outside the cave, then turned to look at Zhu Yan seriously, "In fact, I'm still a bit scared and don't dare to wander around."

Zhu Yan's expression softened slightly, and his movements while eating the fish became more relaxed and refined, exuding elegance: "Who did you learn it from?"

Wen Ruan: "What?"

Zhu Yan: "Sweet."

What sweetness? The fish?

Wen Ruan: "The flesh of the river fish here is quite good, and the fish—"

Zhu Yan: "It's not a fish."

Wen Ruan: "Then what is it?"

Zhu Yan: "Think for yourself."

"I can't think of it," Wen Ruan smiled. "If Your Highness doesn't tell me, I can only assume that you're complimenting my sweetness."

Zhu Yan: ...

Do you even listen to what you're saying?

"You're quite bold."

Wen Ruan: "Is Your Highness afraid then?"

Zhu Yan: "Do you really think I would be scared?"

Wen Ruan: "I just feel that compared to others being shy when they see Your Highness, you seem to prefer them being afraid of you."

He had this feeling that day at the Duke's mansion.

Zhu Yan hummed in acknowledgment, his eyes deepening slightly. "So, you don't want me to have my way."

The fish was already finished; there was no fear of choking or gagging. Wen Ruan spoke frankly. "Why don't we talk about our matters? Your Highness also wants to talk about it, right?"

Zhu Yan: "Our matters?"

"For example, I saw the seal that fell from Your Highness's body, and Your Highness must have noticed that someone is after me, but it's inconvenient to discuss with outsiders..."

This matter would eventually need to be discussed. Pretending it didn't happen wouldn't make it true. Not addressing it would be holding something over someone's head, and once suspicion arose, it would be easy to silence them.

Wen Ruan was very sincere. "There's a world of difference between Your Highness and me. I dare not hope for Your Highness to condescend to befriend me, but perhaps we could strike a deal and travel together temporarily?"

Zhu Yan only stared deeply at him, not speaking. Perhaps his throat was still uncomfortable, making him sparing with words.

Wen Ruan knew he was listening, so he continued. "It's not a special deal. My matters, Your Highness should not mention to anyone. Your matters, I will know nothing about. I haven't seen anything before, and I won't guess about them later. Your Highness can supervise me closely. If I dare say a single word, kill me immediately and take out my pipa bone. How about that?"

"Your Highness's game would be more interesting played this way. I would be more frightened, more anxious, always worrying when you might come to kill me..."

Zhu Yan looked straight at him. "You're trying to placate me."

"Your Highness is indeed wise." Wen Ruan sighed. The noble and proud prince wasn't easy to deceive. It seemed he needed to think of another plan.

Zhu Yan: "You want a backer, even though this backer is very fierce and may swallow you whole at any time, you still want your life to be somewhat free."

Wen Ruan: ??

A backer? Wanting one?

He blinked lightly and then quickly clapped. "That's exactly it! I thought Your Highness couldn't see through this and would scold me!"

Who would have thought that simply trying to convince the Sixth Prince not to easily kill him would result in gaining a backer?

Zhu Yan hummed, seemingly saying, 'These little thoughts, trying to hide them?'

"So we have an agreement?" Wen Ruan couldn't wait to solidify this deal, taking the initiative to extend his palm, wanting to make a pact with the Sixth Prince by a handshake!

But Zhu Yan took out a small pill and placed it in his palm.

Wen Ruan: "Huh?"

He wasn't poisoned, why eat a pill?

"How can you talk business with me, meeting for the first time, without knowing if either of us has a history? How can we ensure trust?" Zhu Yan took out another pill and placed it in his own palm. "Taking precautions isn't appropriate?"

Ah...

Wen Ruan never expected that signing a contract would involve taking pills together. He was momentarily stunned.

Zhu Yan's eyes gradually turned dangerous. "You don't want to eat it? You never intended to make a deal with me? Do you know what happens to those who deceive me?"

"No, no, no, I want to eat it!" Wen Ruan quickly picked up the pill and swallowed it, even opening his mouth to show the Sixth Prince.

Zhu Yan: "You actually dared to eat it, not afraid I'd poison you to death?"

Wen Ruan: ...

Wasn't this forced upon him?

"Would Your Highness do that?" he licked his teeth. "If Your Highness truly wanted to kill me, all you had to do was thrust the dagger forward. Why go through the trouble and waste a pill?"

Zhu Yan held the pill in his hand. "You should understand that the more secrets you know, the faster you'll die."

Wen Ruan's eyes curved, his smile bright. "I hope to benefit from Your Highness's grace and die a bit slower."

It didn't matter if it attracted more danger; he could use the opportunity to find out who exactly wanted him dead.

In the dim light, he saw the Sixth Prince raise his hand and swallow the pill meant for him—

Their deal was sealed.

Wen Ruan didn't know the specific effects of the pill, but the Sixth Prince's antidote seemed effective. After breaking a sweat, his strength seemed to have recovered somewhat, although his spirit wasn't great. His entire body ached, and the sweat on his forehead hadn't stopped.

Triggering such a strong medicinal effect in a short time would inevitably cause discomfort. Knowing the Sixth Prince's pride, Wen Ruan stood up. "Your Highness, rest for a while."

"Hold on." Zhu Yan called out to him.

Wen Ruan: "What does Your Highness require?"

"Squat down."

"Come closer."

Finally, Zhu Yan reached out and wiped away the annoying whiskers from the little cat.

Wen Ruan was taken aback.

Zhu Yan frowned. "Aren't you leaving yet?"

Wen Ruan: ...

The proud prince didn't immediately lie down. He only moved slowly after Wen Ruan left the cave, struggling to lay down. Wen Ruan counted silently to twenty and peeked inside once, finally feeling at ease.

He had laid down, but Zhu Yan wasn't asleep. His entire body ached too much; he had sweated profusely and was dirty. He could smell himself, a mix of blood and sweat that wasn't pleasant.

In his half-conscious dream, it seemed as though he had traveled through time, hearing someone singing... Who was singing? What were they singing... Whose birthday was it today?

"Pomegranate red blooms like clouds, a life of brilliance... May my son have a lifetime of peace and prosperity, find a good partner, enjoy long-lasting blessings, accumulate fortune and longevity, may every year have this day, and every age have this dawn..."

Who was speaking?

That young boy with a radiant smile, showing his teeth, who was he?

...

Luo Linchang ran to the estate of the young master of the Duke of Wen's mansion, disregarding his favorite wine jars and his beloved wine. He even forgot about his pitiful friend Chen Yongan, who was suffering in the Ministry of Justice's prison. He dove headfirst into the fields, for this was what he loved most!

This planting method, this germination rate, the robustness of the seedlings, the future yield per mu... He hadn't seen it before, but the more he looked, the more familiar it became.

The Ministry of Agriculture oversees agriculture across the land, but the world is vast, and he couldn't possibly visit everywhere. However, in the information he had collected, there was mention of Sizhou or somewhere else having such land. More than a year ago, when the northern regions suffered a disaster and food supplies were insufficient, both military and civilian rations were strained for a period. The capital city nearly fell into chaos because of a shipment of grain from Sizhou that alleviated the disaster and saved countless lives...

He wasn't without attempts to find it in Sizhou, but no matter how detailed his inquiries, he couldn't locate it. The more specific he was, the less he found. It turned out that the person wasn't in Sizhou but right here in the capital!

"Here it was... So that's how it is..."

How could he have missed it!

Seeing farmers moving outside the field, he rushed over, grabbing one to ask, "Whose land is this, who planted it, what's their surname, what's their name, where do they live!"

The man he grabbed was a bit stunned. Was this old man sick?

It wasn't by chance that he was here. The young master had helped them, teaching them how to save their crops from disease. They were grateful and, while working nearby, noticed someone lurking suspiciously in the young master's field, fearing they might cause trouble. Of course, they came to help take a look, but now this thief dared to ask whose property it was?

The man grew even more wary, refusing to answer and contemplating going back to call for help: "And who are you—"

Just then, someone really did come to cause trouble.

A group of unknown hooligans, carrying hoes, firewood, and flint, headed straight for the young master's field. They used the hoes to dig up the newly sprouted seedlings, and the firewood and flint were for setting fires!

"Hey, nice seedlings! Dig them all up for me, teach this young master a lesson, see if he dares to be disobedient!"

Where did these people come from?

It was the handiwork of the Duke of Wen's household, combined with the fanning of the flames by Yu Zhen of the Second Prince's residence, buying people with money.

The Duke of Wen's household had lost enough face that day. When they wanted soap and were rejected by Wen Ruan, they decided to target his weakness to make it easier to control him in the future. As for Yu Zhen, his plans had failed today. Not only did he not gain any benefits or surpass Chen Gen, but he also offended Fang Rui, someone you shouldn't offend in the capital. The Second Prince, who wanted Wen Ruan, personally disciplined him, saying that if he dared to make another mistake, he would be expelled, disregarding anyone's face. With a bleak future ahead, he simply wanted revenge.

The Duke of Wen's household wanted leverage, not a deep grudge. They originally intended just to scare Wen Ruan, not wanting to make too much noise. But with Yu Zhen's instigation, things quickly spiraled out of control. Many people came with money, ready to act, and their hands were ruthless. They wouldn't listen to reason or be restrained by anyone.

"What are you doing!"

Luo Linchang was alarmed. This was the fertile land he had just found, with seedlings that promised a great harvest! It couldn't be ruined!

He hurried forward to stop them. Would common thieves and ruffians give him any respect? In front of the weak and elderly, they might not push too hard, but if you insisted on challenging them, don't blame them for not giving you any face—

Luo Linchang was soon knocked over and pushed onto the ground.

"You bastards! This is food, something you can casually destroy!"

Luo Linchang wasn't a fighter and couldn't possibly defeat these young men. But his heart had always been sincere towards crops, unable to tolerate any desecration. If it were anything else, at any other time, he wouldn't confront people head-on, knowing his body couldn't withstand it. But these were crops, crops that could save countless lives!

The old man fought desperately to stop them.

The farmer he had stopped to question was stunned. This was terrible... No, looking at it this way, although the old man didn't know the young master, he shouldn't be the young master's enemy. On the contrary, the gangsters in front were!

Damn, this time, real trouble had arrived!

"Help! Come quickly! Someone is causing trouble and destroying crops!"

Against such a large group, one person definitely wouldn't be enough. The man dropped his basket and ran back, shouting for help and finding a gong to bang loudly.

People quickly gathered.

No one was watching the spectacle; they were all coming to help.

The young master grew good crops and didn't keep secrets. He answered any questions asked and conducted himself admirably. Having received such kindness, everyone felt the need to repay it. And just as the elderly man said earlier, this wasn't just anything; these were crops, food. How could they allow them to be destroyed!

At this moment, it didn't matter whether it was the Duke of Wen's estate or the Sixth Prince's estate, who you belonged to or which steward you served. Everyone united to drive away these conscienceless scoundrels!

Liu Dahai, the head of the Duke of Wen's estate, was fighting on the front lines. When he heard about this incident, he was so angry he almost flew into the sky. This was the young master's most cherished estate, his most cherished crops. Liu Dahai had hoped to tend to this batch of crops to achieve great success, pushing aside Nanxing, the trusted aide, to take his place. But now this happened?

"What are you all standing around for? Get up there! Call for reinforcements! The young master's land must be protected!"

"And you—yes, you! Stop standing there and light that firework!"

It was something Nanxing had arranged. In case of an emergency, it could be used, and he would quickly come to handle the situation.

White daylight fireworks exploded.

Nanxing, who was in the middle of a fight in the mountains, immediately jumped out of the fray upon seeing this. Recognizing the location as that of the farmstead, his eyes narrowed slightly.

"No more fighting, I'm leaving!"

Without much hesitation, he sprinted down the mountain toward the farmstead. That was something his young master cared about and cherished the most; it couldn't go wrong under any circumstances. Three years ago, his young master had said that among everything, crops would always be the top priority for him.

It wasn't that he wasn't worried about his young master, but after fighting that masked man for so long, he felt that the opponent didn't have ill intentions. Perhaps they had made a mistake this time, and there shouldn't be too much of an issue with his young master's safety... Of course, he would quickly return after finishing up here. Young Master, you must hold on by yourself, don't let anything happen!

Fang Rui was taken aback. Just like that, no more fighting?

Well, given how anxious he looked, perhaps there was indeed something urgent. Although it was a bit regrettable...

But then again, there was no need to feel regretful. Even though he hadn't seen the other party's face, this person was summoned by His Highness Sixth Prince! His Highness Sixth Prince must know them! Asking His Highness Sixth Prince for help should work, right?

He removed his mask, took a deep breath, and felt completely at ease. It had been a long time since he had fought like this, and it felt great!

Fang Rui tidied up his slightly disheveled clothes, leisurely enjoying the scenery around him. Following the not-so-obvious path through the mountains, he went to look for the Sixth Prince.

Today was the last day of May, and few people outside knew that it was the birthday of the Sixth Prince.

He didn't find the Sixth Prince, but in different places, he saw the corpses of different people, piled up in groups, all with their faces covered, wearing similar clothing.

Fang Rui's brows gradually furrowed.

They had agreed to drink together after finishing their business, not to argue, not to fight, and not to get angry today. But now, after the Sixth Prince had finished his business in a cool manner, he left first?

That was too heartless!

...

Wen Ruan couldn't always return to the cave, he had to save face for the Sixth Prince. His Highness was someone who valued his dignity, and he seemed to be a light sleeper. With his body in such discomfort, he wouldn't be able to sleep soundly. It wouldn't do to disturb him.

He also didn't dare to stay too far away. Who knew what kind of poison it was? If something suddenly happened inside, there needed to be someone who could help.

This damn cave was also peculiar, standing alone, far from the river, with not many trees nearby. Although there was fog in the mountains, it was still hot. A little shade from the trees would at least provide some psychological comfort.

Forget it, no use just sitting around. Since he was already feeling restless, he might as well do something.

Wen Ruan tore off a piece of cloth from his inner garment, went to fetch water from the shady area by the river, soaked it, and carefully entered the cave. He wiped Zhu Yan's forehead, palms, armpits... to make him more comfortable.

Zhu Yan was running a fever. Actually, he could have helped wipe more areas, but it seemed that he didn't like strangers touching him too much, so he had to stop.

Wen Ruan's hands were very gentle, brushing over the corners of Zhu Yan's forehead, along his cheeks...

Zhu Yan seemed to be dreaming of something unhappy, looking very distressed, his teeth clenched, his fingers trembling slightly, his throat emitting a weak, mournful cry: "Empress Mother..."

Suddenly, he grabbed his hand, gently rubbing against his cheek, not letting go.

Wen Ruan: ...

Dreaming of his mother, why was he still so unhappy?

The strength with which Zhu Yan held his hand was very strong, very tight, as if he had to hold on tightly like this to prevent the person from leaving. If he loosened even a little, just a little, he wouldn't possess this gentle hand anymore.

"What's going on..."

It was a bit pitiful.

Wen Ruan didn't forcefully pull his hand away. Instead, he reached forward with his other hand, gently patting Zhu Yan's shoulder, soothing him gently: "Sleep, it's okay, everything will be fine when you wake up..."

Zhu Yan seemed to be in great pain, his lips starting to dry and peel, his entire body burning hot. Wen Ruan's conscience wouldn't allow him to leave. This time, he ran further, finding cleaner, cooler, and sweeter water upstream, and returned to feed it to Zhu Yan.

Zhu Yan was still very uncomfortable, but after drinking the water, his frown eased slightly, and his lip color improved.

Wen Ruan combed back his sweat-drenched hair behind his ears.

It had to be said that His Highness Sixth Prince's looks were too unfair. With his sharp eyebrows, long eyelashes, skin like jade, appearing like the moon emerging from the clouds, a lake reflecting snowy mountains, and with the innate elegance and nobility, he seemed particularly unattainable. When viewed up close, the impression was even more stunning.

Now, with a hint of illness, compared to before, the distance between them had lessened, instead making him more captivating to look at.

"Get better soon..."

Two hours, but there wasn't much time left. Wen Ruan was a bit worried.

"Woof!"

Hearing a sound outside the cave, Wen Ruan came out to see. It turned out to be the black dog raised by the Sixth Prince. Was it here to search for its master?

The black dog charged fiercely, following the scent from afar, without stopping in between, straight to the cave, enthusiastically pouncing on its master. Seeing its master unresponsive, lying motionless on the ground, it anxiously licked its master's hand, its master's face, seemingly trying to wake him up.

Wen Ruan: "Don't worry, he'll be fine, he'll wake up soon."

The black dog whimpered, lying on the ground motionless, guarding its master, not going anywhere, a bit listless.

Wen Ruan didn't really know the black dog, unsure of its temperament. Thinking about it, he resisted the urge to move and retreated from the cave.

It was still unbearably hot outside. After not staying for long, Wen Ruan felt his cheeks heating up, so he walked around, wondering if he could find anything...

He discovered a pomegranate tree.

A pomegranate tree thicker than his thigh, looking very vigorous, its leaves glossy green, one pomegranate flower after another blooming amidst the leaves, red like fire, brilliant as clouds and mist, incredibly beautiful.

His hands itched a bit, and he gently broke off a branch.

"...Don't cry."

An indistinct voice came from beside him, seemingly Zhu Yan in the cave waking up and scolding the dog not to act spoiled.

Why did he say that to everyone.

"Wake up, Your Highness?" Wen Ruan hurried back into the cave, finding Zhu Yan indeed training the black dog, which was obediently hanging its head, submitting to his commands. After acknowledging its good behavior, it seized the moment to lick his hand.

Zhu Yan pressed down on the dog's head, seemingly looking for a handkerchief to wipe his hand, but realizing he was already covered in dirt, he awkwardly gave up and turned to look at Wen Ruan.

He also noticed the pomegranate flower in his hand.

"You... like pomegranate flowers?"

"Yes," Wen Ruan, oblivious to the subtle change in the other's eyes, continued walking inside. "Today is the last day of May, did you know, Your Highness?"

Zhu Yan nonchalantly hummed in acknowledgment.

Wen Ruan: "May is known as the evil month, ominous, but I like it. May has another name, the Pomegranate Month. Why do people only remember the former and not the latter? Pomegranate flowers bloom, beautiful like misty clouds, fiery and passionate, full of vitality, a dazzling beauty, how wonderful."

Zhu Yan: "Wonderful?"

Wen Ruan nodded. "Yes, it's the messenger of summer. Every year when this season arrives, it heralds the beginning of splendid flowers. Crops start growing well too. Isn't it often praised in ancient poetry? 'A single red dot amidst lush greenery, no need for much spring charm,' or 'all the colors on the branches merge into the pomegranate red'—how beautiful, don't you think, Your Highness?"

Zhu Yan's gaze passed over the fire-red pomegranate flower, landing on the youth's face.

His cheeks were flushed, but not from shyness. This person was never shy in front of him. It must be due to the heat, to become this way, how long had he been outside? Did he not know he could hide in the cave, or... was it because he was here, not wanting to come in?

"Silly."

"Your Highness thinks this flower is silly?" Wen Ruan looked down. "I picked the most beautiful branch, isn't it pretty?"

"Woof!"

The black dog suddenly barked, seemingly in support.

Wen Ruan squatted down, his brows and eyes curved. "Do you like this too?"

"Woof!"

"Then it's for you!"

Wen Ruan plucked out the smallest branch and placed it by the black dog's ear, and it actually held it! The glossy black fur, paired with the brilliant red pomegranate flower, looked surprisingly good!

"Beautiful!"

Wen Ruan lavishly praised it again and again, finally able to casually stroke the dog he had longed to touch.

Indeed, the fur was smooth and soft, warm and fluffy, very nice to touch!

The black dog wagged its tail, letting him pet it, even helping to conceal it. Its body quickly turned, allowing him to stroke it from the side, avoiding Zhu Yan's sight.

Zhu Yan: "…"

This dog was too obedient and good!

Unable to resist, Wen Ruan spoke up. "Can I..."

"No."

Zhu Yan stood up, his state fully recovered, much more energetic, no longer sweating, strength returned, dignity returned, and so did his eccentricity.

But Wen Ruan couldn't forget the image of him burning with fever, sweating, and in pain in his sleep. With heavy fog outside today, mountain winds rising, and moisture lingering, it seemed rain was imminent. Someone who had just recovered from a serious illness shouldn't be troubled further.

He looked at his outer robe. It was still okay, no blood or sweat, just a little dust, relatively clean: "Can I take off my outer robe and drape it over you?"

Zhu Yan glanced at his slender waist. "No."